Tolle Lege: Summer 2023

TOLLE LEGE

ST. RITA OF CASCIA HIGH SCHOOL MAGAZINE

The Class of 2023 gathered in the gym before proceeding into the Shrine Chapel for their graduation Mass and Ceremony on May 21, 2023.

Photo by Kyle Flubacker.

Dear St. Rita Friends and Alumni, Summer is here! This time of year often means summer jobs for our students and cheering on the Sox or Cubs. Summer here on campus means campers of all ages in our recreation, sports, activities, and conditioning camps. July is also when we close the books on 2022-23 and prepare for the 2023-24 academic year. We have a lot of momentum here at 77th and Western, and much news to report.

In May, we were pleased to graduate 107 young men from the class of 2023. Those young men earned $31,304,772 in college scholarships — an average of $292,568 per graduate! We have a well-established and solid foundation on which to build our future. We expect enrollment to grow over the next several years, starting immediately, as we will see an uptick in enrollment this school year.

All this has been accomplished while we continue to improve our campus. Specifically, this year we upgraded our student furniture, including new classroom desks and chairs, as well as invested in new laptops, iPads and technology equipment. Lastly, we expect to have all our classrooms air-conditioned by the end of summer.

We are in year two of our Guaranteed Scholarship Program, based on leadership, service, faith and family. These scholarships are designed to help families that serve our country and communities, reward legacy families that have made a multi-generational commitment to St. Rita and recognize families that value a Catholic education. These scholarships are in addition to our already existing financial aid program, funded by our Annual Appeal, that provides tuition assistance to our hardworking families.

We are so very thankful to all of you who have contributed to our Annual Appeal for tuition assistance and to our scholarship program. This past year we raised over $900,000 for the appeal. We are also happy to announce a pledge of $1,000,000 over the next four years from honorary alumnus, Bernard J. DelGiorno. Mr. DelGiorno has challenged us to match that pledge; consequently, we are embarking on our Caritas Campaign. The Campaign’s goal is to match the donation and help fund scholarships.

We expect to award families approximately $2 million in scholarships and tuition assistance next year alone — your support makes this possible. Thoughtful and transparent stewardship of these funds remains a top priority for all of us here at St. Rita. We look forward to keeping you updated on our progress.

We truly have entered a new era of growth for St. Rita High School, which, in part, is possible thanks to the leadership of steadfast major donors who have ensured St. Rita is 100% debt free. As we adhere to our Augustinian Values of Truth, Unity and Love, our faculty and staff tell me they are very optimistic about the direction our school is headed. I am very happy to be surrounded by talented team members who love St. Rita and are committed to our mission of educating young men.

Please consider adding to our growing momentum by joining us at an upcoming event, like our Party on the Patio at Homecoming on Friday, September 22 vs. Marmion Academy or at our Memorial Classic Golf Outing on Monday, September 25 at Ridge Country Club.

May St. Rita continue to powerfully intercede for you and your families.

Best regards,

Sincerely,

Deacon John Donahue, J.D. Ed.D. President St. Rita of Cascia Highs School

Celebrating the

CLASS OF 2023

On May 21, the 116th Commencement Ceremony took place in the beautiful Shrine Chapel. The Class of 2023 boasted 107 graduates, joining the 25,149 Ritamen that have gone before them. These young men have persevered throughout their time at St. Rita, making lasting contributions to our school community.

The Class of 2023 AWARDS

Mr. Mustang

Joseph Kuska

Caritas Award

Joseph Smith

Veritas Award

Michael Collins, Jr.

Unitas Award

Colin Corum

Class Speaker

Jacob Moyer

The Class of 2023 STATS

18% With a 4.4 or Higher GPA

40% With a 4.0 or Higher GPA

17% Presidential Award for Excellence

20% Illinois State Scholars

25% Receiving Athletics Scholarships

80% Earned Academic Scholarship

$31+M Earned in College Scholarships

Class of '23 Earns $31,304,772 in Scholarship Opportunities

This year's graduating class earned over $31M in scholarships from universities across the U.S. With 107 students, that means the Class of 2023 received an average of $292,568 in scholarships per graduate. Check out a few of the key scholarships received by our outstanding graduates below:

Experiences Outside the Classroom

Ritamen Visited Cascia

The St. Rita Band and Latin students embarked on an experience of a lifetime in February when they explored the sights and sounds of Venice, Florence, Cascia, & Rome!

Aviation Club is Back

This year, the Aviation Club returned as an offering for Ritamen who are considering a career as a pilot. Southwest Chief Pilot Captain Nick Caulfield gave our Ritamen an in-depth view of the different fields of aviation including pilots, mechanics, and working inside the command center.

Mustang Broadcast Company Goes Live

This Spring, the Broadcast Club launch the Mustang Broadcast Company (MBC). Subscribe to the MBC today to receive notifications when our Ritamen commentators are live. Scan the QR code to subscribe today!

Broadcast Club on WGN Morning News

Broadcasting Club took a field trip to WGN Studios where they participated in some on-air segments and got a behind the scenes tour of the news studio.

Ritamen Participate in Third Season of Unified Sports

This past April, students at St. Rita of Cascia High School closed out their 3rd season volunteering in the Special Olympics Unified Sports Program.

The program, which began in 2019 with St. Rita as one of the pilot Champion Schools, aims to unite people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team.

“We were the first Unified team in Chicago,” said Andy McIntosh, one of the Unified facilitators and St. Rita High School Service Coordinator. “Given our longstanding relationship with Special Olympics, they approached us a few years ago to participate. We couldn’t be more excited to get out students more involved.”

Since then, students from St. Rita have been competing alongside students from South Occupational Academy (SOA), a transition center for students aged 16-22 years with disabilities, in the spirit of inclusion.

"As an Augustinian school, Unity (Unitas) is one of our core values and an integral part of the education we provide here at St. Rita,” Principal Josh Blaszak '02 explained. “This partnership has been an opportunity for our students to put this concept into practice and, ultimately, grow in their spirituality."

This year, 15 Ritamen who continually demonstrate Augustinian Core Values of Veritas (Truth), Unitas (Unity), and Caritas (Love) were invited to be a part of this important program: Brendan Morgan ‘26,

Benjamin Bubacz ‘25, John Danaher ‘25, Nicholas Antonowicz ‘25, Matthew Grzyb ‘25, Vincent Skokal ‘25, John Schmitt ‘23, Owen Manning ‘23, Quinn Kelly ‘23, Ryan Lynch ‘23, Anthony Malzone ‘23, Thomas Iaquinta ‘23, Daniel Cahill ‘23, Omar Alday ‘23, and Kevin Gaughan ‘23.

The season kicked off in December 2022 when they met up for the Unified Summit in the McCarthy Center at St. Rita, where the players were able to meet and get to know one another before the competitions began.

Over the course of the year, Ritamen and students from SOA practice and compete together in several sporting events including bowling, bocci, track and field and basketball.

This season was one of their most successful yet when their Basketball team, the Southside Buckets, made it to the State Championship Tournament where they took 4th Place.

“Some of these students have been playing together for a couple years now,” McIntosh explained. “They’ve developed a friendship since they’ve started playing— they treat each other like long lost brothers.”

In addition to McIntosh, the team is led by St. Rita’s Jay Standring (HON) and SOA’s Marc Rice and Raymond Harris.

“As an Augustinian school, Unity (Unitas) is one of our core values and an integral part of the education we provide here at St. Rita. This partnership has been an opportunity for our students to put this concept into practice and, ultimately, grow in their spirituality.”

— Principal Josh Blaszak '02

Spring Sports Round-up

Baseball

The varsity baseball team, led by veteran Head Coach John Nee '93, earned the #3 seed in their sectional this season by compiling a record of (24-11, 12-6) regular season record. They have been led by firstteam all-conference selections Senior Tommy Atkinson (Heartland Community College) and Juniors Sir Jamison Jones (Illinois State University) and Baker Shelhamer (uncommitted) as well as secondteam selections Senior Joey Smith (Morton College) and Junior pitcher Louie Sisto (uncommitted). The Mustangs finished (12-6) in the rugged Chicago Catholic League Blue Conference with wins over Providence (7-1), Mt. Carmel (7-5), and Brother Rice (5-2). The Mustangs also travelled to Las Vegas for their annual spring trip to play in the AllFaiths Classic hosted by Bishop Gorman High School. The tournament featured eight of the top 50 teams in the country. St. Rita beat Faith Lutheran, the 4th-ranked team in Las Vegas, 6-5 by scoring four runs in their last at bat in their opener and followed that up with a convincing 13-4 win over California power St. John Bosco advancing the Mustangs to the tournament semifinals where they fell to the #2 ranked team in Las Vegas, Basic Academy. St. Rita finished (3-1) overall in Las Vegas as they beat the defending Utah state champions Juan Diego 18-0 before heading home.

St. Rita hosted a Class 4A Regional where the Mustangs beat Curie to advance to the championship game against Riverside-Brookfield. On a beautiful Saturday morning at Mike Zunica Field, St. Rita captured the regional championship with a 4-2 win over the Bulldogs advancing them to the Class 4A Mt. Carmel sectional. At Mt. Carmel, the Mustangs beat Reavis 14-3 in the sectional semifinal before falling 6-3 in the sectional championship game to Brother Rice finishing the season (27-12) overall.

The Mustangs have eight seniors who will continue their baseball careers in college, including: Ryder Johnson (Lake Land College), Bobby Ochoa (Calumet College of St. Joseph), Haron Abuelhija (Illinois Institute of Technology), Joey Smith (Morton College), AJ Malzone (Wabash Valley College), Tommy Atkinson (Heartland Community College), Timmy O’Connell (College of DuPage), and Eddie Rowe (Lake Land College).

Lacrosse

The varsity lacrosse team, led by first-year head coach Brandon Singleton finished (14-6) on the year losing to top-seeded Benet Academy 10-9 in the sectional championship game at Doyle Stadium. In the sectional semifinal at Doyle Stadium, the Mustangs earned their most exciting win of the season coming back from an 8-2 halftime deficit to defeat Neuqua Valley 10-9. The lacrosse team was led by 1st team All-Catholic League members Tommy Richter (Attack), Liam Nolan (Midfield) and Mitch Hooten (Defense) and 2nd team honorees Aiden McIntyre (Attack), Jackson Landers (Midfield) and Nolan O’Malley (Goalie). Members of the lacrosse team who will continue to compete in college include: Bobby Emmons (Central Michigan – club) and Quinn Kelly, who will play football at Eastern Michigan University.

Lacrosse Senior Night. Left to Right: Head Coach Brandon Singleton, A.J. Petrulis Jr., Christrian Morales, Robert Emmons, Kevin Gaughan, Tommy Richter, Tommy Iaquinta, Owen Manning, Christopher Wiatrak, Jack Cronin, Quinn Kelly, Assistant Coach Sam Miglieri, Deacon John Donahue.

Louie Sisto '24

Water Polo

The varsity water polo team, led by veteran head coach Sigfredo Cruz finished the season ranked #14 in the state losing to Lyons Township in the sectional championship game. They were led by 1st team allconference members Davion Nichols and Kevin Castellanos and 2nd-team all-conference honorees Kevin Kehoe and Brendan Larson. Earning the distinction of All-Sectional in the playoffs were 1st team members John Masiliunas and Davion Nichols and 2nd team members Kevin Castellanos and Brendan Larson. Overall, the Mustangs finished 3rd in the Metro Catholic Aquatic Conference with a win over #6 Fenwick during the regular season.

Track & Field Volleyball

The varsity Track and Field team, led by veteran head coach Pierre Nealon, hosted the IHSA sectional at St. Rita on Thursday, May 18. Several Mustang athletes qualified for the IHSA State Finals at Eastern Illinois University, including: the 4x 100m relay team, consisting of junior Colin Lynch, sophomores Jimmie Maxson and Sam Gyimah, and senior Kenny Davis while junior Ryan Talty qualified in the Triple Jump and sophomore Noah Vaughn represented St. Rita as an alternate. Many athletes throughout the season posted top 10 times in the school record books, and the future looks bright for the ”Running” Mustangs as they lose two seniors while returning over 90% of their roster for the 2024 season. Senior Kenny Davis signed to play both football and run track at St. Ambrose University.

The varsity volleyball team played a great regular season schedule crossing paths with many of the top teams in the state of Illinois while finishing with an (18-16) regular season record. They also finished 3rd (4-5) in the ultracompetitive Chicago Catholic League Blue conference. Three juniors were named All-Catholic League Blue (Aidan Peloquin, Lucas Olszewski, and Tim Moore). Some of the biggest regular season wins came over #22 Fremd, St. Louis University (#2 in Missouri), and #5 Lyons Township. They entered the sectional with the #3 seed and defeated Homewood Flossmor (25-22, 25-22) to capture the regional championship before falling to Brother Rice in straight sets in the sectional semifinals.

State qualifying 4x100m relay team Collin Lynch '24, Jimmie Maxson '25, Samuel Gyimah '25, and Kenny Davis '23.

Davion Nichols '24

The 22-23 Vasity volleyball team: Jake Brady '23, Matthew Erickson '24, Kevin Fergus '24, Michael Henson '24, Timmy Moore '24, Lucas Olszewski '24, Aidan Peloquin '24, Marty Riley '24, and Ian Wagner '24

Father Jack Tierney, O.S.A. grew up in Southern Wisconsin in a family who practiced their faith every week by going to Church. He attended St. Lawrence Seminary High School near Fond du Lac, WI. St. Lawrence provided him with a strong foundation of faith and a close bond with his classmates, which gave him his first call to religious life. Fr. Jack studied political science and international studies at the University of Minnesota, however, he felt the need for something meaningful. That calling was to serve the Church and its people, leading him to the Order of Saint Augustine. He was captivated by friendship and the idea of building community and he wanted to pursue that like Augustine did. Fr. Jack was ordained into priesthood on July 25, 2020 by Bishop George J. Rassas at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel. Since then, Fr. Jack has had many roles over his three years at St. Rita, including our Director of Augustinian Mission, Theology Faculty, and School Chaplain. Fr. Jack's next journey takes him to Missouri where he will be attending Saint Louis University to acquire his Ph.D. in public and social policy.

Q: What was your mission when starting at St. Rita High School? How has that evolved since you started?

A: My first year at St. Rita, I was assigned as Chaplain and teacher. I was both a brand new teacher and a brand new priest, so there was a lot to learn. I had to learn what worked best for my students during hybrid and remote learning, as well as learn how to coordinate Campus Ministry activities on behalf of the whole school. Since then, I have grown as a teacher (especially by challenging my students) and try my best to make faith and morality both interesting and relevant to juniors. I've enjoyed every Kairos retreat that I have the privilege to serve as Chaplain. Retreat is a powerful experience to help young people realize how God works in their lives. I was later named as Director of Augustinian Mission, meaning that I work with the other school administrators to strengthen and enhance our community.

Q: What is the one St. Rita tradition that has inspired you throughout your time here and why?

A: One of my favorite traditions at St. Rita is the tie ceremony for the freshmen. We host a prayer service where the upperclassmen give ties to the freshmen. They learn how to dress formally for Mass and special occasions — many freshmen still have to learn how to tie a tie! The ties are blessed and serve as a reminder of God's presence. It is a simple service, but speaks to the tradition of the school, especially our hospitality and welcome. When freshmen start at St. Rita, they have committed to a brotherhood that will last for the rest of their lives. This tradition speaks to the journey of education and formation as young men. It's where they learn they can lean on their brothers and St. Rita Family for support.

Q: What is one thing you would want the alumni to know about the Augustinian mission today?

A: Augustine's mission of education is alive and well. We are blessed to have enthusiastic young men and their families as part of the St. Rita Family. We are fortunate to teach, preach, and coach these young men at a very formative period of their life. Augustinian Mission is to help each member feel welcome as they journey through teenage years. As a school, we do this by modeling our Core Values of Truth, Unity, and Love as standards of virtue for each student to discover and then integrate into their life. We also encourage our students to discover their own restless hearts, and just like Augustine, to invest their efforts in values and relationships of ultimate purpose

WELCOME HOME, MIKE!

Join us in welcoming Mike McDevitt '17 to the St. Rita staff. Mike joins the Advancement Department as Manager of Alumni Relations and Events

Mike is a 2017 graduate of St. Rita, where he was a wide receiver on the football team. Mike was a member of the National Honors Society and winner of Unitas Award winner and the Smialek Award. After high school, he attended Loras College in Dubuque, IA, where he played wide receiver and tight end, and was selected as Team Caption. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management in 2021. Following his undergraduate education, Mike remained in Dubuque to pursue a Masters in Coaching Leadership and assumed the role of Tight End Coach for the Loras Football team. Before joining the St. Rita staff, Mike held positions a Win Daily Sports, Fanduel Sportsbook, and ASM Global – Solider Field. Mike resides in Morgan Park and is a parishioner of St. Cajetan.

Alumni can connect with Mike by emailing mmcdevitt@stritahs.com or calling (773) 925-6600 ext. 6620.

Bob Gallagher ‘83, a graduate of St. Cajetan School, has been a loyal supporter of St. Rita his entire life. Bob was a four-year football player and beloved amongst his classmates while at St. Rita. He has served as Chairman of the St. Rita Golf Committee, coached varsity football, is always willing to help St. Rita in any way he can. His son, Bobby, is a 2011 graduate of St. Rita. Bob has been in the insurance business for 31 years and currently owns and operates Gallagher Murphy Insurance Agency.

Q: Why is it important for you to constantly support and give back to St Rita?

A: St. Rita has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My dad is a graduate from the Class of ’53, so he would take me to a lot of the Rita football games when I was young. My first memory of that is going to Soldier Field in November of 1970 to the Prep Bowl. I was five at that time and I thought I was going to see the best football team in the country. I remember all the parents, coaches, and teachers giving their time to make sure St. Rita was always in a better place the following year. The “Pay It Forward” mentality — that is really what drives me to donate my time and money to St. Rita….not only to make sure St. Rita is here for many more years, but also to make sure St. Rita is in a better place year after year.

Q: What are some of your favorite memories from 63rd and Claremont?

A: Being older now and looking back, I am really amazed how St. Rita fit 2,000 boys in a school that compact. There were about 1,500 students when I attended in the early 1980s. The best memories involved all the friends we had, and still have to this day. Some of the incredible concerts we held at the school were nationally known bands. Playing football for the legendary Pat Cronin and the coaching staff is something I will never forget. Going to basketball and hockey games were not only fun, but many times dangerous! The best memories are always shared with my fellow classmates when we get together for golf outings, Alumni Banquets, and other St. Rita events. A lot are the same old stories, but every time they are told it always ends in crying laughter.

Q: What’s one word you would use to describe The Snakepit?

A: It’s hard to put one word on the “Pit”, but if there is only one word, in my mind it would be CONCRETE! The 120-yard length field was actually only about 115 yards so it was packed into a small area. The south endzone had a 10-foot concrete wall 2 inches outside of the endzone, and the home sidelines had a 10-foot brick wall about 5 feet off the sidelines. Talk about intense! The fans were as close to the field as humanly possible — just over 10 feet above the field. It was a 360 ft. X 160 ft. field inside a 360’2” X 165’ rectangle. We will never see that again anywhere. But it was ours and the best home field advantage around.

Q: What advice do you have for the SR graduating Class of 2023?

A: I would give our recent graduates two pieces of advice. 1. Whatever you are doing after St. Rita, college or working, start off strong. If going into the working world, find something you enjoy and give your career 100% at all times. Be a sponge and learn from your mentors. And as you get older and better at your craft, take someone under your wing and return the learning experience. If you are going to college, start off strong. The first semester is the most important semester of your college career. If you get behind your first semester because you had too much fun experiencing college, you will always be trying to catch up, or worse you can find your way out of school. START STRONG IN SCHOOL and it will pay off. 2. Don’t forget about St. Rita. Remember the good times and friendships you experienced at St. Rita and carry that on in your lifetime. Remember to show your face around at St. Rita Alumni events. Remember to “Pay It Forward” because without you and your fellow alumni, St. Rita may not be as good as it was for you.

THANK YOU

To the faculty and staff who are celebrating milestones for their years of service to St. Rita High School.

25 YEARS

Pat Mitchell Maintenance Engineer

John Nee '93 English Faculty Head Baseball Coach

20 YEARS

Noreen Kelliher Administrative Assistant Guidance & Academics

15 YEARS

Brendan Garrett (HON) Head of Housekeeping

10 YEARS

Terry Holz '67 Bus Driver

Bro. Joe Ruiz, O.S.A. (HON) Theology Faculty School Chaplain

5 YEARS

Mary Gal Carroll Database Administrator

Jack Donahue '07 Social Science Faculty

Geri Kupiec Mathematics Department Chair

Marty Bechina ‘15 is a graduate of St. John Fisher grammar school and was a standout player in both baseball and football for the Mustangs. He was a captain, an All-Catholic League Safety, and finished his football career with nine interceptions. Bechina was a three year varsity baseball player, starting at shortstop throughout his entire career. In his junior season, he led the Mustangs to a State Finals appearance after hitting .355 with 42 RBIs, 11 doubles, and 20 stolen bases. Bechina’s senior year, he hit .398 with 13 doubles and 32 RBIs earning him the Chicago Catholic League Blue Lawless Award. In large part to Bechina’s efforts, the Mustangs were ranked the #1 team in the country during his senior season. To go along with all his amazing athletic accomplishments, Bechina was also a six-time Heeney Award recipient, given to St. Rita students who earn straight As during a semester.

After high school, Bechina had an outstanding baseball career at Michigan State University (MSU), where he started 203 games for the Spartans. He was a two-time Academic All-Big Ten Honoree, All-Big Ten Freshmen Team selection, and finished his career with 45 doubles which ranks fifth all-time in MSU history. After his senior season, Bechina was voted to receive the John Kobs MVP Award, while also earning the Kirk Gibson Offensive Player of the Year Award.

Marty was selected in the 32nd round of the 2019 MLB Draft by the Oakland Athletics. He played professional baseball for three seasons, reaching as high as AAA level for the Las Vegas Aviators.

Q: What are some of your favorite St. Rita memories?

A: Some of the most memorable events during my time at St. Rita include: Making a State Championship run in baseball as a Junior

• Becoming Catholic League Champs in both football and baseball as a Junior

• Scoring the Game winning field goal vs. Mt. Carmel as a Senior, and

• Being ranked the #1 team in the country in baseball for almost a month as a Senior

Q: Who are some St. Rita faculty members that impacted you the most during your time here?

A: Coach Mike Zunica and Coach John Nee were two of the best coaches I have ever had in my life and they are even better people.

Q: As an alumnus, why is St. Rita still important to you?

A: St. Rita helped shape me into the person I am today. The lessons, friends, and experiences I had there will always have a special place in my heart. Every time I go back, I am reminded of great memories. I am extremely proud of my four years and will continue to give back in every way I can.

CONGRATULATIONS, AUSTIN '17!

On March 18, 2023 — Ritaman and University of North Carolina wrestler — Austin O'Connor '17 defeated Levi Haines of Pennsylvania State University, 6-2, in the 157 pound final to capture his second National Championship.

Almost exactly two years prior, on March 20, 2021, Austin O’Connor became the first North Carolina wrestler since 1995 to win a National Championship, after he earned a 3-2 win over Ohio State University's Sammy Saso in the 149 pound final.

O'Connor's wrestling career began at four years old when he joined the Lockport Gators Wrestling Club. He moved programs and wrestled for the Tinley Park Bulldogs, where he won five Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation State Titles. After an outstanding youth wrestling career, O'Connor followed it up with one of the best high school wrestling careers in history. In 2017, he became only the 15th wrestler in IHSA history to earn the title of 4x IHSA State Champion and the first to come from St. Rita High School. O'Connor is regarded as the greatest wrestler to come through the storied St. Rita wrestling program. His commitment to excellence, competitive nature, and outstanding wrestling ability earned him a wrestling scholarship to the University of North Carolina.

O'Connor graduated with a double major in communications and exercise-sport science this May.

Upcoming Alumni Events

July 17, 2023 / 9 a.m.

47th Annual Scholarship Golf Outing

Silver Lake Country Club

Register your foursome today!

September 13, 2023 / 12 p.m.

September Ritamen Luncheon*

St. Rita High School, McCarthy Center

September 22, 2023 / 5 p.m.

Homecoming Party on the Patio Doyle Stadium

September 25, 2023 / 9 a.m.

4th Annual Memorial Classic Golf Outing Ridge Country Club — SAVE THE DATE

October 11, 2023 / 12 p.m.

October Ritamen Luncheon*

St. Rita High School, McCarthy Center

October 18 – 19, 2023

Pat Cronin Golf Outing

Fort Meyers — REGISTRATION OPEN

November 8, 2023 / 12 p.m.

November Ritamen Luncheon*

St. Rita High School, McCarthy Center

December 13, 2023 / 12 p.m.

December Ritamen Luncheon*

St. Rita High School, McCarthy Center

January 10, 2024 / 12 p.m.

January Ritamen Luncheon*

St. Rita High School, McCarthy Center

February 10, 2024 / 12 p.m.

35th Annual Caritas Gala

Valentine Dinner Dance

The Ritz-Carlton Chicago

February 14, 2024 / 12 p.m.

February Ritamen Luncheon*

St. Rita High School, McCarthy Center

*Ritamen Luncheon open to alumni who graduated prior to 1984

Bernard DelGiorno (Hon.) Announces $1M Matching Gift at All-School Mass

On Wednesday, May 10 Bernard DelGiorno (Hon.) addressed the St. Rita student body after the final all-school Mass of the 2022-23 academic year to announce his $1 million matching gift commitment. DelGiorno, the son of Italian immigrant parents, who is the 1st Vice President of Wealth Management at UBS Financial Services, is also a champion of educational institutions on the Southside of Chicago, including St. Rita and the University of Chicago.

DelGiorno’s pledge marks a new phase of growth for St. Rita, spurring the Caritas Campaign to raise funds to match his $1 million gift over the next four years. As enrollment expands and St. Rita’s scholarship program grows, this matching gift will ensure young men on Chicago’s Southside have a high school where they can receive a world-class, yet affordable, Catholic, Augustinian education.

“Take advantage of the opportunity you all have to go to this incredible institution,” DelGiorno urged Ritamen. “St. Rita is a fixture on the Southside of Chicago, and those of us who might have a little bit to say about it are looking forward to another 100 plus years of this school being a leading educational institution in Chicago.”

“St. Rita is a fixture on the Southside of Chicago, and those of us who might have a little bit to say about it are looking forward to another 100 plus years of this school being a leading educational institution in Chicago.”

— Bernard DelGiorno (Hon.)

Deacon John Donahue, President of St. Rita said, “We are so fortunate that Bernie is such a great friend of ours and generous benefactor of St. Rita. His love for the Southside of Chicago and the education of young people as tomorrow’s leaders is evident. We are tremendously happy to welcome him to campus.”

In 2018, DelGiorno generously donated $2.5 million to St. Rita as part of a comprehensive capital campaign, growing the school’s endowment and upgrading its athletic facilities. The campaign realized the construction of the Mrozek Family Fitness Center, The John McNicholas Baseball Clubhouse, and a gymnasium renovation — ultimately resulting in the naming of the school grounds as the Bernard J. DelGiorno Campus.

“A lot of the people in this room are going to be running this planet in 20 or 30 years.” DelGiorno said. “I encourage you to maximize your educational opportunities like the one here at St. Rita.”

Learn more about the Caritas Campaign

CARITAS

Matching Campaign for Scholarships

Launching on July 1, 2023, the Caritas Campaign aims to match Honorary Alum Bernard DelGiorno’s $1 million gift commitment over the next four years to support the St. Rita of Cascia High School’s Guaranteed Scholarship Program, the first of its kind on the Southside of Chicago.

This program is pivotal to making the unparalleled education provided at St. Rita possible for working, middle-class families who not only work to serve our country and community, but also value a Catholic education.

Next year, these scholarships will provide $579,500 to families. This amount is expected to more than double over the next two years as our enrollment grows. Help fund these scholarships today by giving to the Caritas Campaign today.

Support these scholarships today by visiting stritahs.com or by scanning the QR code below:

Guaranteed Scholarships

Launched in 2022 with the Class of 2026, Guaranteed Scholarships ensure that middle-class, working Chicagoland families can afford a world-class Augustinian education for their sons. These scholarships are for all incoming freshmen who qualify.

Catholic School Graduate

For all incoming freshmen who graduated from a Catholic grammar school.

$2,000 Annually | $8,000 Total

First Responder

For all incoming freshmen who have a parent serving or retired as a First Responder (Police, Firefighter, Paramedic).

$1,500 Annually | $6,000 Total

Four Star / City of Chicago Employee

For all incoming freshmen who have a parent working full-time for the City of Chicago.

$1,500 Annually | $6,000 Total

Veteran

For all incoming freshmen who have a parent who is an active or retired member of the United States Armed Forces.

$1,500 Annually | $6,000 Total

Legacy

For all incoming freshmen whose father or grandfather graduated from St. Rita.

$1,000 Annually | $4,000 Total

Catholic School Educator

For all incoming freshmen whose parent is a full-time teacher with the Archdiocese of Chicago, Joliet or Gary.

$500 Annually | $2,000 Total

Brother Scholarship

Families with multiple sons enrolled at St. Rita at the same time.

$1,500 Per Son

Photo by Kyle Flubacker.

Caritas Gala Makes Successful Comeback

After two years of virtual events, 2023 saw the return of St. Rita’s largest fundraising event to the Ritz-Carlton Chicago on February 11. The 34th Annual Caritas Gala Valentine Dinner Dance also marked the first year that Nick ‘04 and Ashley LoMaglio chaired the event, taking over after six successful years of leadership from past chair couple Ernie ‘71 and Diane Mrozek.

Over $453,000 were raised during a festive night complete with awards, dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions. One lucky winner even went home with six prime tickets to The Longines Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby races at Churchill Downs.

President Deacon John Donahue said, “The loyal support from our alumni, friends and benefactors is personified in the Caritas Gala. The generosity of our donors allows us to grow our enrollment, upgrade our campus, retain talented faculty and staff, and help working families. We do this all while providing an Augustinian Values-based Catholic education — something that is increasingly important in society today.”

In addition to the $453,000 raised that evening, St. Rita of Cascia High School received a $1,000,000 matching pledge from Bernard DelGiorno (Hon.). This pledge marks a new phase of growth for St. Rita, which DelGiorno announced from the stage inspired by the palpable energy in the room that evening as he was surrounded by those with a shared commitment to the St. Rita tradition.

Honorees at the 2023 Gala included Todd ‘90 and Sheri Kuska, Couple of the Year; Jim Gagnard ‘64, Tolle Lege Community Service Award; and Marquette Bank, Organization of the Year.

Senior Christopher Wiatrak ‘23 was the student speaker of the event. He was supported by over one dozen of his fellow Ritamen who volunteered to work the event.

The date for the 35th Annual Caritas Gala is set for February 10, 2024 at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago.

Student

Top to Bottom:

Gala Chair Nick LoMaglio '04, Tolle Lege Community Service Award winner Jim Gagnard '64, and President Deacon John Donahue

Couple of the Year Todd '90 and Sheri Kuska

Speaker Chris Wiatrak '23

Benefactor Bernard DelGiorno (Hon.)

Photos by Mike Patton

Thank you, Donors & Sponsors!

ST. RITA SPONSOR $25K+

Mr. & Mrs. Ernie Mrozek '71

Joe Rizza Ford

ST. AUGUSTINE SPONSOR $10k+

Mr. & Mrs. James Brasher '71

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Hacker '90

Mr. & Mrs. Greg Jania '89

Mrozek Family Fund of DuPage Foundation

Teddy Bear Daycare Services

Ed Schmit '63 Family

William and Elizabeth Cook

Family Fund of The Minneapolis Fdn.

ST. CLARE SPONSOR $5K+

Mr. Joshua R. Blaszak '02

Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Galli

Mr. & Mrs. Donald Petkus '58

William Blair

ST. MONICA SPONSOR $3.5K+

Dr. & Mrs. Charles Bush-Joseph

Mr. Foley and Mrs. Doyle Foley

Mr. & Mrs. William Grogan

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Isakson

Mr. Kenneth Wroblewski II '02

CORPORATE TABLE

Mr. Bernard DelGiorno (Hon)

Dcn. & Mrs. John Donahue

Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence M. Doyle '68

Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas LoMaglio '04

Mr. & Mrs. Ed Velasquez '68

B&L Distributors Inc.

William Piccirillo '73 Family

Brandenburg Industrial Services

Euclid Beverages

Marquette Bank

Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel

Raymond and Mildred McCarthy Fund

Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. '83

St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel

TRADITIONAL TABLE

Joseph '87 and Susan Allen, Family

Charitable Fund at Schwab Charitable

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Burke

Mr. & Mrs. Mike Clarke '75

Mrs. Colleen Cozzi

Mr. James Gagnard '64

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Latona '00

Mr. Raymond Mertens

Mr. & Mrs. Donald Mrozek '65

Mr. & Mrs. PJ Mullins '89

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Napleton

Mr. John Norbot

Mr. & Mrs. Bryan O'Connor '70

Mr. & Mrs. Steve Schaller '83

Mr. Ron Skwarek '70

Mr. & Mrs. Chuck Volpentesta '92

Catalyst Consulting Group, Inc.

Arvind Talwar '79

YOUNG ALUM TABLE

Tom Hopkins Foundation

Mr. Alfonso J. Castillo '08

ST. THOMAS SPONSOR $1K+

Mr. AJ Castillo '08

Mr. & Mrs. William Abramowicz

Mr. Steven Allelujka

Mr. Venanzio Arquilla

Mr. & Mrs. Mark D. Breeden

Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Brooks

Mr. & Mrs. John Cerovski

Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Coghlan

Mr. & Mrs. Michael G. Connolly

Mr. and Mrs. Brian Cook

Mr. Liam J. Hopkins '11

Mr. and Mrs. Terry Hospodar

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph K. Jenkins '83

Mr. & Mrs. Bob Jilek '72

Mr. and Mrs. John Mann

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Patrick

Mr. & Mrs. Joe Scianna '91

Mr. and Mrs. Alan D. Sutherland

Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Young

Mr. and Mrs. Eric R. Zarnikow

Mr. & Mrs. John Zasadzinski '70

Mr. & Mrs. Scott V. Zdanek '94

FBK Management, Inc.

Napleton AutoWerks

Powering Chicago

OTHER CONTRIBUTORS

Mr. & Mrs. Vito E. Abbate '73

Ms. Theresa Battistella

Mr. & Mrs. Dan Bellich '70

Mr. James Borkman

Mr. and Mrs. Raymond S. Bugal

Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Cahill

Mr. Joseph C. Campagna '10

Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Carroll '88

Mrs. Helen Carroll-Flaherty

Mr. Arman S. Castillo '11

Ms. Joann Chrustowski

Mr. & Mrs. Brian Coleman '99

Mr. and Mrs. David W. Conrath

Mr. Andrew Cook

Ms. Sarah Cook

Mr. Thomas Cook

Mr. & Mrs. Brian Courtney '90

Mr. Greg F. Cozzi

Mrs. Mary Larkin Cunnigham

Mr. & Mrs. Michael R. Cummings '04

Mr. & Mrs. Nick Dachota '12

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Dachota '84

Dr. & Mrs. John D'Anca '68

Mr. Mike Day '93

Mr. & Mrs. Sergio Dehoyos '95

Mr. Jeff T. Doody '83

Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Galfano '89

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gallagher '83

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gallagher '11

Ms. Dawn Gomez

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph F. Gorman '81

Mr. Dan Grieco

Dr. & Mrs. Gerardo A. Grieco

Mr. Patrick Griffin '74 and Mrs. Sharon Ostrowski

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas M. Harrington '74

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Hennessy

OTHER CONTRIBUTORS (CONTINUED)

Mr. Martin T. Hopkins '09

Mr. Thomas G. Hopkins '07

Mr. James Huck

Mr. & Mrs. Bryan Kaltenbach

Mr. & Mrs. Robert T. Kellam '92

Rev. Robert Kelly

Ms. Bonnie Krywanio

Mr. & Mrs. Todd Kuska '90

Mr. Joseph Lacny

Mr. and Mrs. Paul L. Lomaglio

Mr. & Mrs. William Lynch '91

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Marchese

Mr. William J. Marco '90

Mr. Andrew Mariotti '17

Rev. Andy Matijevic

Mr. Joseph Matz

Mr. Patrick McCarthy

Mr. and Mrs. Michael McDevitt

Fr. William J. McFarlane

Mr. & Mrs. John McGowan '78

Mr. & Mrs. Sean McIntyre

Mr. and Mrs. James T. McMahon

Mr. & Mrs. Dan McMillan

Mr. Donny Mrozek

Hon. and Mrs. Thomas W. Murphy

Mrs. Clare M. Napleton

Mr. John T. Nee '93

Mr. and Mrs. Craig Nielsen

Ms. Mary O'Neill

Mr. Brian O'Sullivan

Mr. & Mrs. John Paris

Mr. Alberto Perales '97

Ms. Laura Piccirillo

Ms. Beverly Potthoff

Mr. & Mrs. Tim Quinn '90

Mr. & Mrs. Terrence Quinn '84

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Raphael '81

Mr. Kevin Ryan

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Scanlon '58

Mr. & Mrs. John C. Schmitt '84

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Scianna

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Scianna '91

Mr. Trevor Scianna '17

Mr. Trent Scianna '22

Mr. & Mrs. Nick Sellis

Mr. Jacob E. Spallina '13

Mr. & Mrs. Jay Standring

Mr. Joseph Suster

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Swanson

Mr. Reggie & Mrs. Renee Sykes

Mr. Robert Topor '85 & Rachel Rone

Mr. Jacob L. Vaci '01

Mr. Joseph Volpentesta, Sr.

Mr. Adam Wiers

Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Wojcicki

Mr. Brett M. Wolniakowski '04

Mr. Greg Zaber '94

Mr. Roger Zavala '99

Mr. Jeffrey Zohn

Bannerville USA, Inc.

O'Connor Law Group LLC

HALL OF FAME

On April 14, over 300 alumni, friends, and families from the St. Rita community gathered to celebrate the newest class of Hall of Fame inductees — Ron Lamb '65, Mark Hacker '90, David Fee '95, Tony Bubacz '96, Wade Weyer '05, and Ryne White '05 — and the milestone graduation classes this year — Class of 1973 (50th), Class of 1983 (40th), Class of 1998 (25th), and Class of 2013 (10th). Congratulations to all!

Alumni Dues

All proceeds from alumni dues help to defray the cost associated with keeping our alumni and friends informed and to sponsor special events throughout the year.

Pay your alumni dues online today

MARK HACKER '90

RON LAMB'65

WADE WEYER '05

TONY BUBACZ '96

DAVID FEE '95

RYNE WHITE '05

J. Bradley

Daniel Dressel

Frank Oprzedek

Ronald R. Zalud

Richard Schlueter

Thomas Sheehan

Thomas M. Brady

John F. Donahue

Edward S. Gunkel

William F. Myszkowski

George Viravec

Timothy E. Beyer

George Janky

Norman A. Kwak

Richard W. Rybak

John M. Covich

Walter T. Slezak

James V. Noak

Vincent J. O'Grady

Chuck L. Oskvarek

Ronald J. Cisek

Robert R. Schimanski

James M. Twohig

Brian Panick

Robert A. Carroll

Christopher J. Murray

James A. Sobczak

Myles V. Fuller

Daniel P. Campbell

Christopher D. Kapa

Justin Rosenau

James M. Schreier

2023

William R. Dunne

Cornelius O'Leary

Charles M. Breuss

Robert C. Craig

Robert W. Nolan

Thomas Basich

John C. Maes

Nicholas J. Galatte

Gregory Sharko

Warren Black

William E. Gillooley

Anthony Kovacevich

William Luksetich

Ronald J. Marolda

Ronald P. Groebe

John Curtin

Robert Horbach

Gerald J. Seper

Conrad Juckins

Raymond J. Tillrock

William F. Flynn

Robert W. Dolata

In Memoriam

St. Rita of Cascia, pray for us.

1905 Guild Planned Giving Society

The 1905 Guild honors alumni and friends who have committed to leaving a legacy through their estate plans to assist the next generation of Ritamen. This honorary society celebrates the tradition of St. Rita of Cascia High School and its legacy to the future. It is comprised of generous benefactors who have provided for St. Rita in their estate plans in the way of a will, charitable remainder trust, gift annuity, life insurance policy, or remainder interest in a residence or farm.

The 1905 Guild is named to celebrate the year our tradition of excellence began on the southside of Chicago. That year, Fr. James F. Green, O.S.A., brought Augustinian core values of Truth, Unity, and Love to 63rd and Oakley. During the 118 years since, 25,149 men have benefitted from these core values.

We thank all those who are a part of the 1905 Guild. We are grateful for their commitment to the ideals of Augustinians and St. Rita High School’s mission that continues to thrive today.

If you have any questions, or would like to include St. Rita of Cascia High School in your estate plans, please contact John Schmitt ‘84, Director of Major Gifts at (773) 925-6600 x6629 or jschmitt@stritahs.com.

St. Rita students, family, and fans releasing red and blue balloons from the stands of the Mustang’s original stadium at 63rd and Oakley.

ADMINISTRATION

Board Chair | Clare Napleton, J.D.

President | Deacon John Donahue, J.D., Ed.D.

Principal | Josh Blaszak ‘02

Director of Augustinian Mission; School Chaplain | Fr. Jack Tierney, O.S.A.

OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

Director of Institutional Advancement | Michael Swanson

Director of Major Gifts | John Schmitt ‘84

Advancement Database Manager | Mary Gal Carroll

Alumni & Events Manager | Mike McDevitt '17

Alumni & Athletic Chaplain; Advancement Associate | Fr. Bernard Danber, O.S.A. ‘68

Director of Marketing | Mary Larkin Cunningham

Marketing Coordinator | Andrew Mariotti ‘17

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Joseph Allen ‘87

Victoria Barrios

Stephen Betts

A.J. Castillo ‘08

Dennis Coghlan

Nick Dachota ‘12

Nate Hilding

Dan Latona ‘00

Clare Napleton (Chair)

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Deacon John Dohanue, J.D., Ed.D.

Ernest Mrozek ‘71

Rev. Anthony Pizzo, O.S.A.

Rev. Jack Tierney, O.S.A.

Charles Nash ‘71

Timothy Ray ‘87

Rev. Bernard Scianna, O.S.A. ‘83

Dina Scianna

Marcia Smith-Brown

Ronald Skwarek ‘70

Renee Sykes

JoLynn Tweedie (Graca)

St. Rita of Cascia High School is a Catholic college preparatory school for young men, rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ and the tradition of St. Augustine, following the Augustinian philosophy of education.

St. Rita aims to form each student as a whole person: spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, physically, and socially, and to provide its young men with the necessary skills to succeed in college and in life, leading to lifelong learning and personal awareness.

Through the Augustinian core values of Veritas (truth), Unitas (unity), and Caritas (love), St. Rita strives to develop a bond between the members of the entire family: Augustinians, faculty, staff, students, parents, and alumni.

In the spirit of our Father, St. Augustine, we will be of one mind and one heart on our way to God.