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35 seniors join ranks of MMI alumni MMI conducted its 122nd commencement exercises on May 22 as seniors were awarded diplomas by Brian G. Lucas ’84, chairman of MMI’s Board of Directors. This year’s graduating class of 35 seniors amassed more than $6.6 million in merit scholarships and awards. The 2014 graduating class also attained an average SAT score of 1787, several hundred points above state and national averages. The Class of 2014’s average ACT score is 26. The commencement address was delivered by Nick Benz, valedictorian of MMI’s Class of 1992 and chief operating officer of
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, the 20th largest brewery in the United States, based in Milton, Delaware. He joined the brewery in 2003 as chief financial officer and is today a partial owner of the company. By the end of this year, he will assume the role of chief executive officer. The year that Benz joined Dogfish Head, the brewery made about 14,000 barrels of beer. This year, the company will make 240,000 barrels. The company has grown to more than 200 employees and recruits employees Nick Benz ’92 holds up a piece of coal during his address to the graduates. nationwide. Dogfish Head makes about 35 different brands of beer, with each type generally available as a bottled product and a draft product. The company distributes its beer in 31 states and the District of Columbia, including all Atlantic and Pacific seaboard states. Dogfish Head has grown from what Benz describes as a “young entrepreneurial company in survival mode” to a company that is on track to reach $100 million in sales this year. Benz encouraged the graduates to pursue a career they love, saying, “Without people making choices because they passionately love their field ... if we didn’t have excellence in social work, the arts, literature or other areas that are less tangible, imagine how much less worth our culture would have.” “Be the best at it. Set a super high standard for yourself and go make it happen. If you don’t enjoy it, someday you’ll wonder, ‘Why am I doing this?’ How you respond to setbacks is also important. You will make some colossal mistakes, but one step back does not mean you can’t pick yourself up, dust yourself off and take two steps forward. That’s what develops resiliency,” he said. During commencement exercises, valedictorian Roger Knittle See COMMENCEMENT, page 5
The MMI Class of 2014
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From the Head of School “If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said ‘faster horses.’ ” – Henry Ford As part of the Great Gatsby theme for this year’s senior prom, two antique cars were on display as students entered the prom venue. The owner of these cars, an MMI grandparent, graciously offered to display his classic Buicks and, despite the inclement weather, several promgoers were able to grab a photo with these beautiful automobiles. I’m a bit of a car hound, so I thoroughly enjoyed investigating all the nooks and crannies of these carefully restored cars. Being around old cars brings me back to my youth. My father passed along his passion for cars to me, and summer was the best time of year for us “car guys” to catch a glimpse of a classic car on the open road. Personally, I’m a fan of the ’60s muscle car: Mustangs, Camaros, Challengers and so on. They represent an era where the Detroit automobile was featured prominently on every teenage boy’s bedroom wall. This era ended in the late ’70s and early ’80s as customers wanted smaller, fuel-efficient cars, largely driven by a bad economy. American car manufacturers were slow to recognize this consumer shift and consequently, Japan was able to surpass the “Big Three” and grab a significant market share. These American corporations had to take a hard look at their existing products and come up with a plan to energize and invigorate not only their companies but also their customers. In a way, I can relate to the CEOs in Detroit because we are always thinking about how to ensure that MMI and the education we provide remains relevant to our students. At MMI, we continuously review our educational program. We want to ensure we are providing the most comprehensive, inspiring education possible, which requires maintaining a balance between timeless methods and skills and modern innovation. Small class size, individualized attention, and a rigorous curriculum continue to be part of an MMI education. Likewise, public speaking through our assembly program and investigative research and presentation through our Open House program will continue to prepare our students for the world they will lead in the 21st century. But when necessary, we also adjust our academic program as a result of new ideas to effectively develop our students for future success. The MMI faculty and staff spend incredible amounts of time reviewing ways to improve the education we provide our students. Our teachers stay abreast of the latest student development research. Effective and creative use of technology is one such item that has helped us to present content and engage our students. Even our most veteran teachers understand its value: Mr. Cusat (yes, Mr. Cusat), Mr. Clarke, Mrs. Titus, and Mrs. Green have spent time learning digital applications, seeking advice from their colleagues and sometimes getting assistance from their students. In short, they model the inquiring behavior we want our students to adopt. Our teachers have pushed themselves so we can remain relevant to our current students’ needs. Because of this dedication, MMI will continue to provide a high-quality, balanced education for our students well into the future. In the coming months, we will share some of the ways we are revising our educational program to continue to meet the needs of our students and remain the education leader in northeastern Pennsylvania. In the meanwhile, slow down a little and take notice of those classic cars proudly driving alongside the latest models on your next road trip. It’ll be worth the look, I promise. Enjoy your summer,
Thomas G. Hood Head of School
MMI Today is the official newsletter of MMI Preparatory School 154 Centre Street Freeland, PA 18224
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Thomas G. Hood – Head of School
William A. Shergalis, Ph.D. ’58 – President Emeritus
(570) 636-1108 (570) 636-0742 (fax) mmi@mmiprep.org (email) www.mmiprep.org (Internet) Joseph G. Rudawski – President Emeritus
MMI presents awards during convocation During MMI’s Awards Convocation, students in ninth through 12th grades received awards. MMI subject awards were presented to students in the following categories: Ninth grade: Science, Jonathan Smith; Art, Dylan Slusser; Math, English and History, Ali Aijaz; Music Performance, Niklas Byriel; Music History and Spanish, Allison McGeehan; German, Megan Marchetti; and Chinese, Keenan Overa.
MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel presents the ninth-grade subject awards to Megan Marchetti, Allison McGeehan, Niklas Byriel, Ali Aijaz, Dylan Slusser, and Keenan Overa. Missing is Jonathan Smith.
10th grade: Art, Sara Davis; Science, Math and Spanish, Jay Solgama; English, Sarah Moyer; History, Shaelyn Heft; German, Samanta Cottone; and Chinese, TJ Jankouskas. 11th grade: Science, Nicolas Vilov; Math, Annika Fisk; Spanish, Claire Sheen; Art, Gabriellia Nunez Becker; English, Collin Finkel; History, Emily Morrison; German, Eric Kabitzke; and Chinese, Rachel Stanziola.
MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel presents the 10th-grade subject awards to Samanta Cottone, Jay Solgama, Sarah Moyer, Shaelyn Heft, and TJ Jankouskas. Missing is Sara Davis.
The Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Awards were presented to senior students who have excelled in their fields of study as follows: Art, Paige Darrow; History and Math, Roger Knittle; Spanish, English and Science, Jeffrey Careyva; Chinese, Mariah Serra; and German, Kristen Purcell. Other award presentations included: American Math Competition firstplace award, Yusuf Qadri and Anirban Chowdhury; Student Mathematics Club of Marywood University math competition, top score for Level 1, Anirban Chowdhury, and seventh place, Ali Aijaz; John Steiner Gold Math Exam Award, Claire Sheen; Wilkes University/ Luzerne County Council of Teachers of Mathematics competition, second place, Jeffrey Careyva, and third place tie, Roger Knittle; American Association of Teachers of German Award, Alexis Williams; WVIA Artist of the Week, Carolyn Brennan and Charles Bower; American Chemical Society High School Chemistry competition, Jay Solgama; Pennsylvania Regional Science Olympiad awards, Anthony Franzosa, CJ Wallen, Roger Knittle and Alexander Haber; and Science Teachers’ Award, Tristan Gibbons.
MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel presents the 11th-grade subject awards to Rachel Stanziola, Emily Morrison, Nicolas Vilov, Annika Fisk, Claire Sheen, Gabriellia Nunez Becker, and Eric Kabitzke. Missing is Collin Finkel.
MMI Head of School Thomas Hood presents the Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject awards to Paige Darrow, Roger Knittle, Jeffrey Careyva, Mariah Serra, and Kristen Purcell.
Academic and community service awards were presented as follows: American Legion Good Citizenship Award, Kaitlyn Sitch; George Eastman Kodak Young Leaders Award and Scholarship, Rachel Stanziola; Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award, Yusuf Qadri; Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award in Humanities and Social Sciences, Madison Luchi; Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology, Chiara DeMelfi; Rensselaer Medal Award, Hayden Francis; Bryn Mawr Book Award, Emily Morrison; Student Sage
Award, Annika Fisk and Gabriellia Nunez Becker; University of Pennsylvania Book Award, Claire Sheen; Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award, Eleanor Maduro; Wellesley College Club Book Award, Emily Seratch; Chatham University Rachel Carson Book Award, Haylee Kirschner; Ronald Reagan Student Leader Awards, Jeffrey Careyva, Maria Carrato, Stephanie Pudish and Devan McCarrie; Ernest Scheller III Memorial World Wide Scholarship, Alexander Drusda; Prudential Spirit of Community Award, Alexander Drusda; U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Elijah Dove; and Jake Kislan ’56 Polonaise Society Award, Jeffrey Careyva.
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The Class of 2014 Emily Alexandra Alvear, daughter of Andre Alvear, Hazleton, and Joan Alvear, Hazleton, Indiana University of Pennsylvania – Ecology, Conservation and Environmental Biology. Alec Michael Andes, son of Brian and Jodell Andes, Mountaintop, King’s College – Business & Finance. Cassandra Marion Bluth, daughter of Gregg and Virginia Bluth, Mountaintop, Bennington College – Undecided. Carolyn Francis Brennan, daughter of Ailinn Brennan and Andrew Roberts, Jim Thorpe, Temple University – Art History. Jeffrey Allen Bridges II, son of Annamarie Bridges, Hazleton, and Jeffrey Bridges, West Hazleton, California University of Pennsylvania – Mechatronics Engineering Technology.
Roger C. Knittle, son of Roger and Sherry Knittle, Ringtown, Bucknell University – Civil Engineering. Robert James Kupsho III, son of Robert and Diane Kupsho, Drums, Lebanon Valley College – Physical Therapy. Hannah Katherine Lesitsky, daugher of Neil and Julie Lesitsky, Albrightsville, Temple University – Chemistry. Sara Elizabeth Lucas, daughter of Brian and Kathy Lucas, Drums, Saint Joseph’s University – Marketing. Devan Ashleigh McCarrie, daughter of John and Caren McCarrie, Hazleton, Quinnipiac University – Biology.
Jeffrey Ryan Careyva, son of Edward and Jill Careyva, Ringtown, University of Pennsylvania – French & Integrated Studies.
Eleni Nicole Moustardas, daughter of Gabriela Moustardas, White Haven, Wilkes University – English & International Studies.
Maria Nicole Carrato, daughter of Anthony and Carmine Carrato, Hazleton, Saint Joseph’s University – Accounting with a Pre-Law Concentration.
Austin Douglas Muir, son of Scott and Debra Muir, Sugarloaf, University of New Haven – National Security Studies.
Paige Madison Darrow, daughter of John and Gertie Darrow, Hazleton, Boston University – Biology with a Global Health Studies Concentration.
Mitchell Anthony Muir, son of Scott and Debra Muir, Sugarloaf, Norwich University – Political Science with a Minor in Studies in War and Peace.
Jonathan Edward DeJesus, son of Diogenes and Leann DeJesus, Drums, Hofstra University – Civil Engineering.
Stephanie Rose Pudish, daughter of Robert and Victoria Pudish, Mountaintop, University of Pittsburgh – Biology with a Pre-Medical Concentration.
Elijah Mason Dove, son of Eric and Susan Dove, Mountaintop, United States Merchant Marine Academy – Systems and Marine Engineering.
Kristen Leigh Purcell, daughter of David and Kathleen Purcell, Drums, University of Tennessee – Human Resource Management & International Business.
Patrick Daniel Driscoll, son of John and Susan Driscoll, Hazle Township, King’s College – Physics & Mechanical Engineering.
Robert Allen Rosamelia Jr., son of Elizabeth Rosamelia, Hazleton, American University – Audio Technology.
Alexander Drusda, son of Jeffrey and Linda Drusda, Drums, Lehigh University – Psychology & Philosophy.
Mariah Serra, daughter of Jamie Serra, Conyngham, and Maureen Serra, Conyngham, Middlebury College – Chinese Language and Culture & International and Global Studies.
Amber Lynn Ferry, daughter of John and Lisa Ferry, Drums, Wilkes University – Undecided.
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Charles Robert Karchner, son of Charles and Cheryl Karchner, West Hazleton, The Pennsylvania State University – Construction Management.
Hayle Lyn Shearer, son of Lisa and John Ferry, Drums, and Scott Shearer, Temple University – Occupational Therapy.
Alexander Richard Haber, son of John and Cathryn Haber, Tresckow, University of Scranton – Biochemistry & Cell and Molecular Biology.
Kaitlyn Rose Sitch, daughter of Mark and Rosemarie Sitch, Weatherly, Wilkes University – Electrical Engineering.
Kevin Hysenbegasi, son of Sezai and Lirie Hysenbegasi, Hazle Township, Pace University – Finance.
Elias John Slusser, son of Thomas and Kimberly Slusser, West Hazleton, Drexel University – Finance.
Sarah Jessica Jamack, daughter of Nancy Jamack, Sugarloaf, and the late William Jamack, Drexel University – Undecided.
Alexis Joi Williams, daughter of Orlando and Karen Williams, West Hazleton, Stanford University – Physics & Chemistry.
Druva Kansara, son of Sanjay and Usha Kansara, Drums, Saint Joseph’s University – Finance.
Joseph Nathaniel Yamulla, son of Robert and Ann Yamulla, Sugarloaf, Franklin & Marshall College – Undecided.
MMI holds 122nd commencement (continued from page 1)
Valedictorian Roger Knittle addresses his classmates.
told his fellow graduates, “MMI has prepared us to face and overcome challenges, challenges that we will be presented with in our future lives. Therefore, this graduation marks the end of practicing the skills we were taught here, and the beginning of applying them to the real world so that we not only can advance our own positions in this world, but also can advance the world by tackling challenges with innovative and intelligent solutions. MMI has taught us the skill of enduring through challenges. This skill is critical in life, because as the British explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton put it best, ‘By endurance we conquer.’” Class president Maria Carrato shared some of her favorite memories of the senior class, concluding with, “So whether you’re living down south in Tennessee or on the west coast in California or traveling the world from country to country, always remember where you came from. Home is where your heart is, and the memories we made here will be in our heart forever.” Salutatorian Jeffrey Careyva also addressed his classmates, noting that “Tonight, high school ends for me and for every great person who is dreaming up here with me.”
Salutatorian Jeffrey Careyva speaks to his fellow graduates.
Class President Maria Carrato gives her address.
The Class of 2014 celebrates!
All ready for college, the seniors posed in their college apparel a few weeks before classes ended.
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Honor societies induct new members MMI hosted induction ceremonies for several honor societies this spring. Eighth-grade students inducted into the National Junior Honor Society are Angelica Alday, Lauren Babinetz, Lauryn Banyas, David Caldwell, Kyle Falatko, Aaron Harman, Tara Hohn, Joshua Kalada-Kania, Sydney Karpowich, Caitlyn Kline, Chava Kornblatt, Gabriella Kupsho, Marc Lobitz, Talia Logerfo, John Malay, Caelyn McGran, Hunter O’Clair, Madison Perchak, Julia Snyder, Cole Wenner, and Stephanie Zellner. National Latin Honor Society inductees are: Angelica Alday, Lauren Babinetz, Lauryn Banyas, Kyle Falatko, Aaron Harman, Tara Hohn, Joshua Kalada-Kania, Sydney Karpowich, Caitlyn Kline, Gabriella Kupsho, Caelyn McGran,
Julia Snyder, and Cole Wenner. New members of the Pablo Picasso Chapter of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica (Spanish National Honor Society) are Andrew Alday, Kelsy Donaldson, Mikayla Dove, Edward Herbener, Alessandra Ortiz, and Jay Solgama. New members of the Simon Faltz Chapter of the German National Honor Society, Delta Epsilon Phi, are Andreas Boosalis, William Bower, Samanta Cottone, Brian Driscoll, Brendan Drusda, and Sarah Moyer. New members of MMI’s Echoes of Wisdom and Philosophy chapter of the National Chinese Honor Society are Tristan Gibbons, Eleanor Maduro,
Medina Saeed, Emily Seratch, CJ Snyder, and Rachel Stanziola. Students inducted into MMI’s Chroma Chapter of the National Art Honor Society are Gabriellia Nunez Becker, Cassandra Bluth, Carolyn Brennan, Keegan Farrell, Sarah Jamack, Sara Lucas, Madison Luchi, Medina Saeed, and Joseph Synoski. Students inducted into the Mu Alpha Theta chapter of the Mathematics Honor Society are Alec Andes, Jeffrey Bridges, Jeffrey Careyva, Chiara DeMelfi, Patrick Driscoll, Annika Fisk, Hayden Francis, Tristan Gibbons, Sarah Jamack, Roger Knittle, RJ Kupsho, Emily Morrison, Kristen Purcell, Emily Seratch, Claire Sheen, CJ Snyder, and Alexis Williams.
MMI families host exchange students MMI students hosted exchange students from Mexico this past spring, with students from both countries learning valuable cultural and educational lessons. Five middle-school students from Francis Bacon School in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, stayed with families of MMI students and attended classes with their peers. They were accompanied on their trip by English teacher Angeles Guerrero Tobias. The Mexican students created PowerPoint presentations to introduce themselves and their home lives to MMI students and made their presentations to an assembly of MMI students. While visiting with MMI families, the students had the opportunity to experience life in the United States to the fullest, including traveling to different cities and sampling food from various restaurants. In return, they taught their hosts about Spanish culture. The Mexican students spoke English during most of their trip, except during Spanish class, when they conversed with MMI students in Spanish. MMI students and their families took a bus trip to New York City with the exchange students and spent a Saturday there. Host families also took the students to a variety of places.
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Jesus Arias Sanchez, who stayed with the Snyder family, said, “When I was coming here, I thought the people would be intimidating, because they
Students and hosts include, first row, from left: Jesus Arias Sanchez, Ana Paola Munoz Alatorre, Michelle Toledo Romero, Jessica Salgado Herrera, and David Domenzain Rodriquez. Second row: Julia Snyder, Madeline Dryfoos, Angelica Alday, Kaitlyn McGeehan, Allison McGeehan, and teacher Angeles Guerrero Tobias. Third row: Christopher Snyder, Llewellyn Dryfoos, Evan Dryfoos, and Douglas Genetti.
speak a different language. Once here, I felt very good, and I like to be with the people here and talk to them.” When he visited New York, he enjoyed going to the Rockefeller Center and Nintendo store, eating in an Italian restaurant and seeing the Broadway play Wicked. Sandy McGeehan, whose family hosted Jessica Salgado Herrera, said, “Our experience hosting Jessica has been one we will never forget. She was a joy to be around, always showing a positive outlook. The greatest surprise was witnessing the little cultural differences in our everyday living. We learned from each other, laughed a lot and shared
some American culture we hope will always remain in her heart.” Director of Admissions and Financial Aid Aprilaurie Whitley coordinated the program for its fourth year at MMI. “The exchange program is always a big hit with MMI students and their families, with all of us eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Mexican students. During the time the exchange students were here, the American and Mexican students alike improved their language skills while learning about another country’s culture and traditions and strengthening friendships.”
Students excel at FBLA competitions Claire Sheen, a junior at MMI, qualified to attend the national Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tenn., this summer. Sheen earned second place in the Digital Video Production at the Pennsylvania FBLA State Leadership Conference in Hershey. She and five other MMI students placed in the top 10 of their respective events at the state level. The other MMI students who placed in the top 10 at the FBLA State Leadership Conference are Gabriellia Nunez Becker, Emily Bogansky, Hayden Francis, Soprina Guarneri, and Yusuf Qadri. MMI also received first place in the Local Market Share Award, which reflects that the MMI chapter of FBLA has the largest percentage of highschool student members in the club across the state.
Students who placed in the top five at the FBLA Regional Leadership Conference are, front row, from left: Alexis Williams, Stephanie Pudish, Erin Sari, Emily Seratch, and Emily Bogansky. Second row: Maria Carrato, Alyssa Famalette, Soprina Guarneri, Gabriellia Nunez Becker, Claire Sheen, and FBLA adviser Tina Lizbinski. Third row: Rachel Stanziola, Sara Jamack, Joshua Narrow, Yusuf Qadri, Hayden Francis, and FBLA adviser Katie (Lengel) Zucco.
Prior to the state conference, MMI students received first- through fifthplace finishes during the Pennsylvania Regional Leadership Conference held at Luzerne County Community College. MMI students who placed in the top five at the regional conference were Gabriellia Nunez Becker, Emily Bogansky, Maria Carrato, Alyssa Famalette, Hayden Francis, Soprina Guarneri, Sarah Jamack, Joshua Narrow, Yusuf Qadri, Emily Seratch, Claire Sheen, Rachel Stanziola, and Alexis Williams.
Students who placed in the top 10 in events at the Pennsylvania FBLA State Leadership Conference are, front row, from left: Claire Sheen, Soprina Guarneri, and Gabriellia Nunez Becker. Second row: adviser Katie (Lengel) Zucco, Hayden Francis, Yusuf Qadri, Emily Bogansky, and adviser Christine Lizbinski.
Teams take one, two in science competition The team of Jeffrey Careyva, Sarah Moyer, Claire Sheen, and Yusuf Qadri earned first place in the Bloomsburg Science Iditarod, with the team of Tristan Gibbons, Alexander Haber, Roger Knittle, and Jay Solgama taking second place. First row, from left: Moyer, Haber, and Sheen. Second row: Solgama, Gibbons, Knittle, Qadri, and adviser Laura Petro. Careyva is absent from photo.
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Wister Quartet plays at MMI again For the 11th consecutive year, MMI hosted the Grammynominated Wister Quartet for a public performance at the school. The May 24 performance was made possible through the support of Dr. James W. Feussner ’65. Once again this year, the Wister Quartet performed with guitarist Allen Krantz, a critically acclaimed guitarist, composer and chamber musician. Members of the quartet are violinists Nancy Bean and Davyd Booth, violist Pamela Fay and cellist Lloyd Smith.
Above, cellist Lloyd Smith works with students. Below, students prepare to perform a piece with the quartet during the public performance.
This year’s program was entitled “Young Composers” and featured music from Frederick Delius, Friedrich Burgmüller, Johann Sebastian Bach, Sergey Rachmaninov and Franz Schubert, all of whom were young when their compositions were written. The program also included three pieces developed by MMI students and arranged by Lloyd Smith. Smith said, “The string students at MMI participated in two composing workshops with me and contributed a wealth of ideas, ranging from complete melodies, melodies with harmonies, musical ideas, rhythmic ideas, textural ideas, as well as plot and architectural ideas for how the pieces should be put together. The result is a most impressive set of pieces built around the idea of the contrast between a restful dream state and the intrusion of either nightmare or unsettling thoughts or memories that temporarily get in the way of the restful state. Nearly everything in these pieces was contributed by the students; I merely organized and scored the music.” The Wister Quartet also performed for MMI students during an afternoon assembly at the school the day of the concert.
Donors recognized before performance
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The Head of School’s Donor Recognition Reception was held on Saturday, March 15. The evening featured cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center, followed by a performance of “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying” by the MMI Prepper Playhouse. This special reception recognized MMI friends and supporters who are members of the Black Diamond Society, the Timber Society, the Eckley B. & Sophia G. Coxe Society, the 1879 Society, the Mining & Mechanical Circle, the Head of School’s Circle, and the Red Club.
Students show projects at Open House Students at MMI showcased their projects at the school’s annual Open House on March 30. Each year, MMI students are challenged with preparing special research projects, which are displayed at the annual Open House event. All MMI students, from sixth-graders to seniors, displayed and explained their projects in classrooms and locations throughout the school. Visitors were able to observe a variety of student projects, including many in the areas of literature, mathematics, science and social studies. In addition, food projects, prepared primarily by foreign language students, were featured. The food, which was available for sampling, was served in an atmosphere authentic to the nation of the food’s origin. All projects were prepared by MMI students under the guidance of faculty advisers. Local restaurateurs evaluated the food projects. The winners were honored at a special assembly. Level 2 Awards were given to ninthand 10th-grade students and Level 3 Awards to 11th- and 12th-grade students. Winners were: Cooking Projects: first place, Claire Sheen, James Gabrielle and Eleanor Maduro, “Ko-Mex”; second place, tie, Alexander Haber, Jonathan DeJesus and Patrick Driscoll, “South of the Border” and Sara Lucas, Carolyn Brennan and Cassandra Bluth, “Japan-Eats.” Humanities: first place, Level 2, Anirban Chowdhury, “Origami”; second
Above, Haylee Kirschner explains her project, “Roller Coasters. At right, Cassandra Bluth, Carolyn Brennan, and Sara Lucas created “Japan-Eats” for their Open House project.
place, Level 2, Garrett Kost, “Union Army”; first place, Level 3, Chiara DeMelfi, “Creepy Pasta”; and second place, Level 3, Tristan Gibbons and Yusuf Qadri, “History of Advertising.” Science: first place, Level 2, Andrew Alday, “Enthalpy of MgO”; second place, Level 2, Joshua Narrow, “Quantum Computer”; first place, Level 3, Madison Luchi, “Topology”; second place, Level 3, Haylee Kirschner, “Roller Coasters”; honorable mention, Level 3, Alexzandriea van Hoekelen, “Telepresence Robots.”
Snowboarder competes at national level Nash Wenner, who recently completed his sophomore year at MMI, competed in a national snowboard event held in late March and early April.
by gender, age, snowboard/ski and series. Wenner competes with snowboarders in the 14/15 Young Men age group for the Mid-Atlantic Series.
Wenner finished 54th in the boardercross event at the 25th annual United States of America Snowboard Association’s (USASA) National Championships in Copper Mountain, Colorado. He posted a score of 54.41 and earned 90 points during the competition.
He has been snowboarding for five years and this year joined the Blue Mountain Freeriders, a competitive ski/ snowboard team at Blue Mountain Ski Area & Resort that enters local, regional and national freestyle competitions. Wenner entered four competitions this season, competing in both slopestyle and boardercross events. By his third competition, he placed third in boardercross and received a bronze medal. At his fourth competition, he placed second and received a silver medal.
Nearly 2,000 snowboarders took part in the competition, which includes boardercross, superpipe, slopestyle, slalom and giant slalom snowboarding events. The competitions are broken down
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Thank you, Board of Directors! Members of the MMI Board of Directors include, front row, from left: Norman Dick ’87, Chairman Stanley B. Warner III ’92, past Chairman Brian G. Lucas ’84, and Nicholas L. Dei Tos ’71. Second row: Head of School Thomas G. Hood, Robert Davis ’96, John Hersker ’76, and Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto ’79. Back row: Tim Twardzik and Edward A. Kushma ’62.
Annual Kislan golf tournament held
From left: Thomas G. Hood, head of school; Kim McNulty, director of advancement; Joe Lozosky, Steve Walser, Jay Marks, and Frank Cabell, winning foursome; and Mike Dennen and Nick Tripician of PNC Bank, the tournament’s Eagle Sponsor.
MMI held the sixth annual Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament at the Valley Country Club in Sugarloaf on June 20.
state Rep. Tarah Toohil.
This year’s tournament saw the most participants ever, with 111 golfers.
Jess Herness ’01 had the women’s longest drive, Glenn Kushma had the men’s longest drive, and Jeff Sweda had the straightest drive.
First-place winners in the first flight were Frank Cabell, Steve Walser, Joe Lozosky, and Jason Marks. Second place in the first flight went to the team of Neal DeAngelo III ’01, Shawn Menon ’01, Bob Gorski, and John Hogan. First place in the second flight went to Mike Dennen, Nick Tripician, Chip Seidel, and Dave Payne.
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Second-place winners in the second flight were Attorney Chris Slusser, Robbie Wallace, Scott Burkhardt, and
Closest to pin went to Jeff Sweda and Henry Mleczynski.
PNC Bank was the tournament’s Eagle Sponsor once again. Dryfoos and Grange Insurances were the Birdie Sponsor. The tournament supports athletics and student athletes at MMI. It was renamed in 2009 in honor of MMI alumnus Jake Kislan, a standout baseball
and basketball player at MMI who passed away in 2008. He was also active in community sports, founded the Drifton Softball Complex and helped bring the U.S. Olympic Games women’s fast-pitch team to Drifton in 1996.
Thank you, MMI faculty of 2013-14 Members of the MMI faculty pose for their photograph before commencement. Front row, from left: Kathryn Green, Susan Moyer, Mary-Lee Hood, Laura Petro, Christine Lizbinski, Lisa Ferry, and Gabriela Moustardas. Second row: Patricia Medvecky, Stephanie Shandra, Christina Spencer, Nancy Lotz, and Katherine (Lengel) Zucco. Third row: Madison Below, Stella Boosalis, Grete DeAngelo ’92, Jennifer Novotney and Michael Scarlato. Fourth row: Gerard Pierotti, Donna Titus, Daniel DeMelfi, Dr. Gregg Bluth, Jason Tribbet and Dennis Clarke. Back row: Justin Vincent, TR Laputka, Head of School Thomas G. Hood, Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, Michael Mele, and Anthony Cusat.
Students earn awards at PJAS competitions Students from MMI earned awards during the state Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science convention held at Penn State University in State College. Anirban Chowdhury and Gabriella Kupsho earned perfect scores. Chowdhury was also awarded the Director’s Award for Excellence in Junior High Microbiology. MMI students earned awards during the regional Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competition and competed at
First-place award the state level. winners were Angelica Alday, Lauren Babinetz, Anirban Chowdhury, Paige Darrow, Elijah Dove, Annika Fisk, Tristan Gibbons, Alexander Haber, Chava Kornblatt, Garrett Kost, Gabriella Kupsho, Joseph Marushin, Emily Morrison, Joshua Narrow, Yusuf Qadri, Emily Seratch, Sam Sessock, Claire Sheen, Julia Snyder, Jay Solgama, and Nicholas Young. Second-place awards were earned by Andrew Alday, Emily Bogansky, Niklas Byriel, Ryan Eschenbach, Annika Fisk, Shaelyn Heft, Victoria Kline, Megan Marchetti, Sarah Moyer, Kisan Patel, Erin Sari, Bailey Slusser, and Coleman Smith. Prior to that competition, MMI students took part in the regional
Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competition held at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, with firstplace award winners moving on to the state competition. MMI students who received first-place awards in the regional competition were Andrew Alday, Angelica Alday, Lauren Babinetz, Emily Bogansky, Niklas Byriel, Anirban Chowdhury, Paige Darrow, Elijah Dove, Ryan Eschenbach, Annika Fisk, Tristan Gibbons, Alexander Haber, Shaelyn Heft, Allison Hohn, Victoria Kline, Chava Kornblatt, Garrett Kost, Gabriella Kupsho, who earned a perfect score, Morgan Long, Megan Marchetti, Joseph Marushin, Emily Morrison, Sarah Moyer,
Joshua Narrow, Kisan Patel, Yusuf Qadri, Erin Sari, Emily Seratch, Samuel Sessock, Claire Sheen, who earned a perfect score, Bailey Slusser, Coleman Smith, Julia Snyder, Jay Solgama, and Nicholas Young. Students receiving second-place awards in the regional competition were Gabriellia Nunez Becker, Gabriella DeMelfi, Kelsy Donaldson, Evan Dryfoos, Katie Eschenbach, Alyssa Famalette, Devon Faul, Soprina Guarneri, Anna Haber, Sukanya Kansara, Sydney Karpowich, Eleanor Maduro, Abigail Paul, Lois Polashenski, Jessica Smith, and Jonathan Smith. Ali Aijaz received third place. Paige Darrow and Alexander Haber received Perseverance Awards.
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MMI morsels
...snippets of news from our community
Junior Claire Sheen qualified to perform at the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Regional Orchestra Festival. Sheen was selected for the competition after she placed second out of 14 cellists in the district and she was the first-ever MMI student to qualify for Regionals! College Admissions Counselor Stephanie Shandra was an expert presenter on February 22 at the third annual Looking Forward event at King’s College! There were 350 students in attendance as they learned about how to prepare for the college process. Science instructors Mike Mele and Laura Petro went out planting trees with the AP Chemistry class and the sixth grade this spring. Trees were obtained through the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Seedlings for Habitats Program. MMI students celebrated the last day of school before summer break with the posting of their “Happy” video on our YouTube channel and Facebook page. If you haven’t watched our students celebrating, be sure to check it out!
Faculty member Grete DeAngelo ’92 received an “Inspirational Woman of the Week” award from the Women Today show at WYLN for having the courage and determination to live out her dream of becoming a published author. She was surprised on May 12 during her Journalism class with the news by Liz Tolan, director of sales and marketing at WYLN, and Cathy Colangelo, host of Women Today.
Joe Stepansky, maintenance department head at MMI and Freeland Fire Department chief, received a Certificate for Valor and Firefighter Certificate of Commendation during the Memorial Day Ceremony at the Freeland American Legion Post 473. The Hazleton Elks banquet was held on May 29 and representing MMI at the dinner were seniors Paige Darrow, Alex Drusda, RJ Kupsho, and Stephanie Pudish. Alex Drusda was named “Male Teenager of the Year.” Junior Gabriellia Nunez Becker has been selected to attend a program this summer that teaches girls about American government. She was chosen to attend Keystone Girls State from June 22-28 at Shippensburg University by the Freeland American Legion Auxiliary Unit. (Continued on page 13)
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The sixth grade laid a brick wall on April 3 after reading “Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace ... One School at a Time” by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. A special thanks to Doug Green for lending a hand!
In an effort to recognize Freeland veterans, MMI donated all of the graduation flower sprays to the Memorial Day festivities in our hometown. We thank our community members for their service!
The 11th grade took a trip to visit Ursinus College and Temple University on March 19 as they began to contemplate their post-grad plans. MMI alumna Vanessa Novinger ’12, was one of the tour guides at Temple and the group had the chance to visit with alumni Lindsey Joseph ’13 and Gaby Lobitz ’13, both freshmen at Temple.
More MMI morsels Juniors Tristan Gibbons, Medina Saeed, and Emily Seratch were selected to participate in the ACE 2014 program in Beijing, China, this summer. The Ameson Foundation’s Chinese Elite Program runs from July 27 to August 9 and features a cultural immersion experience. The program brings as many as 300 students from top-ranked high schools across China and only five of America’s top students together to hear lectures, interact with government leaders, and engage in international summit discussions. Of those five students from the U.S., an unprecedented three students were selected from MMI. Jennifer Novotney, an English instructor at MMI, is releasing her first novel this summer. Winter in the Soul is a young adult fantasy novel. The book will be released on July 15 by Anaiah Press.
“The Ribbon” is a 27-foot-high, 2-ton stainless steel sculpture that stands along the River Common in Wilkes-Barre. It was designed and sculpted by Mark Dryfoos, an abstract mixed media artist. He serves as MMI’s tennis coach and was the guest speaker at this year’s MMI Chroma Chapter of the National Art Honor Society induction ceremony. Lisa Ferry’s AP art students were able to see the piece firsthand on May 7 during a visit with the artist himself.
MMI students traveled to New York City twice this spring. The members of the Spanish National Honor Society were accompanied by Dennis Clarke and Donna Titus (top) and the third- and fourth-year Chinese language students made the trip with Christina Spencer and Joanne Oakum (right).
Best of the Best winners named
MMI recognized nine students in seventh, ninth and 11th grades as “Best of the Best” during an assembly held recently. First row, from left: Daniel Tron, Allison Hohn and winner Frederick Mejia. Center: Nicholas Young. Back row: Claire Sheen, Emily Seratch, Alyssa Sweda, Olivia Minzola, and Annika Fisk.
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Preppers prosper in the post-season Baseball The baseball team won its first-ever District 2 Class A Championship title this spring with a 6-5 win over Blue Ridge. MMI advanced to the championship game for the first time and had the opportunity to play at PNC Field in Moosic on May 26 to claim the title. It was a great game for MMI and a terrific come-from-behind win! To get to the title game, the No. 3-seeded Preppers defeated Wyoming Seminary, 19-1, on May 19 in the first round then upset No. 2 Old Forge, 4-1, in the semifinals on May 21. MMI advanced to the PIAA State Playoffs as the District 2 Champs on June 2, but fell to District 4 champion Canton by an 11-2 final score.
Softball
MMI’s baseball tea m first time this year. advanced to the District 2 Class A Championship ga (Photos courtesy me for the Dina Harman)
The MMI varsity softball squad also advanced to post-season play this year. The No. 6 Preppers fell on May 20 to No. 4 Blue Ridge by an 8-5 final score to end their season.
Tennis MMI tennis players Billy Spear and Nick Vilov advanced to the PIAA District Tournament in singles this spring. Two MMI doubles teams also played in the district doubles tournament. Representing MMI were the team of Billy Spear and Nick Vilov and the team of freshmen Jonathan Smith and Evan Spear. All players fell in the first round but gained valuable experience for the 2015 season!
Boys’ Basketball The boys’ basketball team posted a 44-35 win in the District 2 semi-finals against Susquehanna on February 21, advancing to the championship game, where the Preppers fell to Old Forge.
Girls’ Basketball The girls’ varsity basketball team advanced to the District 2 Class A semi-final game after a solid 2013-14 campaign, but fell to Old Forge on February 22.
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Prepper pride! Students cheer during the boys’ varsity basketball District 2 championship game.
Old friends greet, new friends meet
MMI alumni, faculty members and friends gathered at minireunions over the past several months. From top: MMI juniors and seniors on a field trip with Mr. Scarlato, Mr. Laputka and Mr. Cusat joined alumni for dinner in Washington, D.C., at the Laughing Man Tavern on April 10. The New York City mini-reunion was held at the Houndstooth Pub on March 26. Melt Grill was the setting for the Lehigh Valley mini-reunion on June 8. Alumni met in Philadelphia at the Nodding Head Brewery and Restaurant on April 24.
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Milestones
Events in the lives of the MMI Prep family Engagements Breighan Brown ’98 is engaged to Ryan Boeskool and a July wedding is planned at St. Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana. She is the investment operations specialist for the University of Notre Dame. Dr. Stacey Barron ’02 is engaged to Travis Miller and an October wedding is planned in Pittsburgh. She is an anatomic and clinical pathology resident at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Dr. Brian W. Coyle ’94 and his wife, Mackenzie, welcomed their daughter, Catherine Elizabeth, on March 12. Katie joins a brother, Finn William. Brian is employed as a vascular surgeon in New Haven, Connecticut, and the family resides in Milford. Dr. Anna Kasprzak Meyers ’99 and her husband, Jacob, welcomed their second daughter, Evelyn Margaret, on December 30, 2013. She joins a sister, Abbie, 2. Andrew Polashenski ’02 and his wife, Kelly, welcomed daughter Katelyn to the family on April 18. Andrew is employed as a civil engineer. The Honorable Jarrod Tranguch ’92 and his wife, Bonnie, welcomed a baby girl, Ezra Jade, in September 2013. She joins a brother, Liam, 4.
Deaths Joseph Rinaldo Beltrami Sr. passed away on February 21. He is survived by his daughters, Joleen Beltrami ’82 and her husband, Todd Schell ’80; and Paula Mategrano and her husband, Lt. Col. Albert Montegrano; and grandchildren including Noah Beltrami ’13. Ronald J. Davis ’50 passed away in Naples, Florida, on April 17.
Nicole Clarke ’08 stopped in for a visit this spring and checked out the new facilities on a tour with her dad, faculty member Dennis Clarke. Nicole lives in Greenville, North Carolina, where she is teaching in a kindergarten classroom at Northwest Elementary. She is engaged to be married to Jeffrey Robert Telson Jr. on October 11.
Weddings Michael Cusat ’99 wed Courtney MacGeorge on September 8, 2012. The couple resides in Langhorne, where he works for Campbell’s. Dr. Mary Theresa Veglia Ladd ’05 married Taylor Ladd in May 2013. At the same time, she graduated from Creighton School of Medicine. She is serving her psychiatry residency at the Medical University of South Carolina with plans to complete a child and adolescent fellowship as well. Faculty member Katie Lengel Zucco married Anthony Zucco on June 7, 2014.
Births
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Sara Centrelli Arn ’04 and her husband, Thomas, welcomed son Robert Benjamin on October 13, 2013. He joins a brother, Thomas Joseph, 2. Sara completed her MSN degree in August 2013 and is board certified as an adultgerontology primary care practitioner. This past March she began work at TriValley Primary Care in Sellersville.
Anthony C. Falvello passed away on February 27. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Maria Manuso Falvello, and their five children, Conrad Falvello, Judge Paula Falvello Garrety, Lawrence Falvello, Ph.D, Attorney Nina Falvello Vecchione, and Christopher J. Falvello, DDS. Also surviving are grandchildren including Virginia Falvello ’02, C.J. Falvello ’04, and David Falvello ’07. Audrey Mae McNiff Laputka passed away on April 16. She is survived by her children, Attorney Theodore Laputka Jr. and his wife Alice; Donald Laputka and his wife, JoAnne; and Attorney Dolores Laputka. She is also survived by six grandchildren including MMI Director of Technology T.R. Laputka III and Kerry Laputka ’91. Neil S. Llewellyn ’48 passed away on April 20. He is survived by his children, Cornelius Llewellyn and his wife, Nancy; Marie Kenny and her husband, Michael; Patricia Douville and her husband, John; Kathryn Llewellyn; and Daniel Llewellyn. William R. Thomas passed away on April 25. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Grace Cauley, and daughter, Nancy Thomas Roman ’79. He is survived by three daughters, Susan Quinque and her husband, Harry; Sally Thomas ’73; and Barbara Thomas-Shreve ’76 and her husband, Dr. Scott Shreve; and two grandsons. John L. Zoltak ’56 passed away on January 28. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Margaret Mary Zoltak; son, John Paul, and his wife, Jill; daughter, Mary Marshall and her husband, Chris; and six grandchildren.
Alumni Notes
What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe August J. (Bud) Corazza ’56 writes that he has been retired for 27 years and is still “kicking” in Clarksburg, Maryland! Gabrielle Dei Tos ’08 was promoted to an associate buyer in men’s outerwear at Burlington Coat Factory, the youngest person to achieve this position in company history. In her new position, she has financial responsibility in buying the right assortment for all 500+ Burlington stores and for their entire e-commerce business. Ian Kollar ’06 accepted an offer to become a junior instructional designer at Drexel University and began his employment there in April. Lisa Merlo ’80 served as the rights and clearance supervisor for the film Plimpton!. After a successful limited theatrical run, Plimpton! made its television premiere as part of the American Masters series on PBS on May 16. She also has been working tirelessly as a clearance supervisor on The Message, which aired four episodes in June on BET. The documentary showcases the influence of hip-hop and how its sheer power has changed the sociopolitical landscape of America. Check your local listings for additional air times for both Plimpton! and The Message.
Knoebels, anyone? The Class of 2012 has a reserved pavilion on Saturday, July 19, at Knoebels. There is plenty of room for any alumni or MMI families who would like to use the facility too! Save the date and look for pavilion T-4 to hang with the MMI crowd!
Anthony Orlando ’06 was interviewed by Filippo Voltaggio on the LifeChanges Network on BBS Radio on March 21 about his book, Letter to the One Percent. The recording is available online. Shannon Zabko ’05 graduated from Gwynedd Mercy College in May 2013 with an associate’s degree in cardiovascular technology. In October, she began working as a cardiac sonographer at Penn Medicine Network’s Chester County Hospital.
Steven Silberg ’92 was selected as Maryland Art Place’s 2014 IMPRINT Artist. This annual program was “initiated by the MAP staff in 2012 as a way to highlight one singular, specific contemporary artist each year that is excelling in their selected media.” Each year, MAP selects one work of art, by one artist, to be reproduced in a limited edition of 100.
Did you know you can donate appreciated stock to MMI and avoid capital gains tax? People often are surprised to learn that there are tax advantages generated by giving different types of property to their favorite charity. Gifts of highly appreciated securities may be particularly favorable to our donors. When donating stock, you are entitled to a charitable tax deduction equal to the value of the securities on the date of transfer to MMI. Best of all, if
you have owned the stock for more than a year, there are no capital gains taxes due when you give securities. Mutual funds and other types of investments offer the same advantages. Call Director of Advancement Kim McNulty before you sell your stocks, as it may be to your advantage to make a stock donation to MMI rather than a cash one!
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Memorials
Library Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between February 1 and June 15, 2014 In memory of Edward Abrams ’62 Mrs. Marlene Abrams In memory of Josephine Barna Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of Joseph R. Beltrami Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Kronick Kalada Berdy & Co. P.C. Mr. and Mrs. C. Jeffrey Mason Mr. and Mrs. Arnold S. Rifkin Mr. and Mrs. Earl N. Schell Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis Mr. Shawn Steward Dr. and Mrs. Michael A. Washinsky Sr.
In memory of Dr. James G. Leary ’67 Mr. John Tucker ’67 and Mrs. Eloise Tucker
In memory of Patrick Fiero Mr. Ian Kollar ’06
In memory of Neil S. Llewellyn ’48 Mr. William Fox ’48 and Mrs. Anna Mae Fox Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood
In memory of Harold Fredericks Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of Elizabeth Gallagher Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce
In honor of Carolyn Brennan ’14 Mr. Andrew Roberts and Mrs. Aillinn Brennan
In memory of Charles Green Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce
In memory of Thomas Boder Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce
In memory of Anthony P. Carrato Mr. and Mrs. David C. Haupt Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis
In memory of Catherine Hollis Mr. David Bogansky Mr. Mark Bogansky Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bogansky Mr. and Mrs. John Brozzoski Mr. John Hollis ’64 and Mrs. Carol Hollis Mr. and Mrs. Emil Kasarda Mr. William M. Loftus ’62 and Mrs. Crystal J. Loftus Mr. Dan Ravina
In memory of Theresa Chakan Mrs. Michele E. Krusinski ’80
In memory of Virginia R. Jenkins Mrs. Ann Marie Della Croce
In memory of Joseph A. Chaykowski ’48 Mr. Anthony Merlo and Mrs. Lisa Merlo ’80
In honor of Roger C. Knittle ’14 Mr. and Mrs. Roger Knittle
In memory of Guy Burke Mr. Joseph A. Turri ’45
In memory of Rex D’Amico Dr. Michael Krusinski ’78 and Family In memory of Rex D’Amico Mrs. Ann G. Krusinski In honor of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Donato Mrs. Ann G. Krusinski Dr. Michael Krusinski ’78 and Family In memory of Mary Doynics Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce
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In memory of Anthony C. Falvello Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Atty. and Mrs. Edward P. McNelis Atty. and Mrs. James V. Senape Jr. Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis
In memory of Catherine Kranyak Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of Marie Laporte Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of Audrey Mae McNiff Laputka Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Mr. Mark Laputka ’79 and Mrs. Lee Ann Laputka Atty. and Mrs. James V. Senape Jr. In memory of Mr. John Lawrence Mrs. Ann Marie Della Croce
In memory of Dr. Joseph Leaser Mrs. Ann Marie Della Croce
In memory of Lucille Machella Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of Paul Massa Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of John J. Mendofik Mr. Mark Laputka ’79 and Mrs. Lee Ann Laputka In memory of Rev. Fred Oleck Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In memory of Edward Repetz Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of William Rudewick Jr. Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In memory of Paul Serock ’66 Mr. John Gallo ’66 In honor of Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis on their 50th wedding anniversary Mr. Eugene Kovatch ’55 and Mrs. Ruthanne Kovatch In memory of Charles Solarek Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of Angelo Spadell Mr. and Mrs. David C. Haupt In memory of William R. Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis (Memorials continued on page 19)
Homecoming 2014 plans announced This year’s homecoming celebration will be held Friday and Saturday, September 19 and 20, and will honor reunion classes ending in -4 and -9. Homecoming events are as follows: Friday, September 19 Head of School’s Reception from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. All alumni classes are invited to join Head of School Thomas G. Hood as we begin Homecoming weekend with cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres in the Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center. Saturday, September 20 Annual Homecoming Picnic from 12 to 3 p.m. All alumni and their families are invited to attend the annual Homecoming Picnic featuring great food and friendship. Picnic highlights include raffle drawings, campus tours, and the opportunity to visit with classmates and friends.
When you shop at Amazon, you can help MMI! You can support MMI every time you shop at Amazon! Even with a Prime membership and free shipping, Amazon will make a gift to MMI with every purchase you make! AmazonSmile is a simple way for you to support your favorite charitable organization every time you shop, at no cost to you. Simply go to smile.amazon. com from the web browser on your computer or mobile device. Use the same account you already have on Amazon.com. Your shopping cart, Wish List, wedding or baby registry, and other account settings are exactly the same! On your first visit to AmazonSmile, before you begin shopping you will need to select MMI as your charitable organization to receive donations. Amazon remembers your selection, and then every eligible purchase you make on AmazonSmile will result in a donation to MMI! It’s that easy!
Additional memorials In memory of Walter Tunnessen ’57 Mrs. Nancy L. Tunnessen In memory of Dr. David Wagner Dr. Jules Puschett ’51 In memory of Sharon K. Yake Mr. Joseph Turri ’45 and Ms. Barbara Sowers
MMI Wall of Fame Induction from 6 to 10 p.m. An elegant induction ceremony is planned to honor this year’s additions to the MMI Wall of Fame. The cocktail hour will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow at 7 p.m. in the MMI Athletics and Drama Complex. Be part of this special night and help us celebrate the achievements and dedication of the new members of the MMI Wall of Fame. Class of 2014 members are: Mr. Shawn P. Gallagher ’84 (Athletic Achievement); Dr. David S. Wagner (Service To MMI); Dr. George G. Feussner ’62 (Professional Achievement); Dr. William J. Koenig ’78 (Professional Achievement); and Dr. Robert J. Lutz ’63 (Professional Achievement). Class of 2013 Wall of Fame members Mr. Robert J. Della Croce ’82 (Athletic Achievement) and Dr. James W. Feussner ’65 (Professional Achievement) will also be inducted in 2014. Reunion Class Dinners at various times and locations Alumni classes are planning their reunions at various locations in the area. For help planning your class reunion, please contact Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org or 570-636-1108.
New MMI website unveiled MMI launched its new website in June. Besides refreshed content, the new site is mobile friendly for easier use on tablets and phones. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, as well! Visit mmiprep.org for the links.
(Continued from page 18)
In memory of Katherine J. Zabko Ms. Shannon Zabko ’05 and Mr. Aaron Zabko In memory of John Zoltak ’56 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis
In memory of Eugene Zynel Sr. Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce
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NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE
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MMI Preparatory School 154 Centre Street Freeland, PA 18224 Address Service R equested
Prom 2014
MMI Preparatory School students were dressed in their finest for their prom, which was held May 15 at the Valley Country Club.
Homecoming Weekend Important Dates September 19 and 20, 2014
This year’s festivities will honor the reunion classes of 1934, 1939, 1944, 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, and 2009. See page 19 for more details.
New Student Orientation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Day of School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back to School Wine and Cheese. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Meet the Teacher Night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Freshmen Orientation and Pajama Parade . . . . . . . . Parent-Faculty Organization Bingo. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
August 25 August 26 August 27 September 9 September 12 October 5