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Congratulations, MMI Class of 2016!

MMI conducted its 124th Commencement Exercises on Thursday, May 19, as seniors were awarded diplomas by Stanley B. Warner III ’92, chairman of MMI’s Board of Directors.

This year’s graduating class of 31 seniors amassed more than $5.9 million in merit scholarships and awards, an average of more than $190,000 per student. The 2016 graduating class also attained an average SAT score of 1708 and average ACT score of 26.

Members of the Class of 2016 were accepted at more than 90% of the colleges they applied to and will attend more than 19 different colleges and universities this fall.

Brian S. Rosen ’75, a partner in the Business Finance and Restructuring Department of Weil, Gotshal & Manges in Manhattan, delivered the commencement address.

Rosen has been recognized several times as a “Best Atty. Brian S. Rosen ’75 delivers the Founder’s Day Lawyer” by Best Address to the MMI Class of 2016.

Lawyers in America for his work in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law. He was named a “Recommended” lawyer The MMI Class of 2016. for Corporate Restructuring, including Bankruptcy, in the United States by The Legal 500 USA. others define you, who you are, or who you want to be … Don’t let In his speech, Rosen imparted a list of six commandments to the noise of other’s opinions drown out your inner the Class of 2016: be yourself, always voice.” be adaptable, be self-disciplined, set In setting goals, Rosen implored the graduates to some goals, find your passion and have not be afraid to fail and, in fact, to expect it. He said, fun. Rosen encouraged the graduates to “In your attempt to set your goals, do not fear failure. express their individuality but be open to This is the time of your life to take risks. Everyone all who they will meet. will fail, but it’s how you rebound from that failure “Do not sacrifice your individuality that defines you.” but, at the same time, do not be closeIn regards to passion, Rosen expressed that the minded to others and their interests. graduates should find a way to help others while Consider what is out there and develop helping themselves. “You need to determine and into the person you want to be. Reach MMI Board of Directors Chairman Stanley B. out and try something new. Do not let (continued on page 5) Warner III ’92 sits next to the Class of 2016 banner.

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From the Head of School Watch your thoughts, they become words; watch your words, they become actions; watch your actions, they become habits; watch your habits, they become character; watch your character, for it becomes your destiny. ~ Frank Outlaw Eight years ago, I penned my first ‘From the President’ message as the new leader of MMI. Like many young (a relative term) or new leaders, I thought about all the things I was going to do to help move MMI forward. As I grew I realized that MMI was transforming my life much more than I was transforming MMI. Mary-Lee and I have had a great ten years at MMI and in Freeland. I have grown as MMI has flourished.

Both occurred because of the dedication of the faculty and staff, as well as the joy and character of the students. It has truly been a great experience.

If you have noticed, the recurring theme during my time as Head of MMI was that of family. It takes a family, working in concert, to raise young people. Families love each other unconditionally. They place the welfare of other family members above themselves. They are always trying to do what is in each person’s best interest. Not what each family member desires, but what they need. I consider it the highest form of compliment to say we at MMI are family.

And what a great family we have. Our students are young men and women of high character and growing intellect.

They treat their peers and the faculty and staff with respect. Their curiosity pushes our team to get better. They represent our school superbly in every way. If our students are our future, it is a bright one indeed.

People warn me to be careful about repeating something too often. For the most part, I try to follow that advice. I make an exception, however, for our faculty and staff. They are the hardest working, most compassionate and dedicated group of individuals that I have ever worked with. That is saying a lot as I spent considerable time with dedicated men and women who selflessly served our country in the military. There is no doubt that our teachers work harder and accomplish more than faculty at other schools. They are the backbone of our family.

Just as today’s students are impressive, those that have gone before have enriched our lives. I told the Class of 2016 that their diploma is not a certificate of accomplishment, but rather a membership card to a very elite and successful community. Joining that community will open doors for them that they cannot yet fathom. It also comes with the responsibility to not soil the name of MMI and others who have graduated from here. We also expect that they will ‘pay it forward’ to future generations of MMI students by supporting the school. Our current alumni do all this. Every alum I have met in the past ten years is successful and considerate. They are dedicated to and represent our school endlessly.

They also support MMI at a level that is unmatched in the independent school world. They are making a lasting impact on other’s lives.

MMI was a great place when we arrived and it is equally strong as we depart. Healthy, with great students, supportive families, a dedicated and compassionate faculty and staff and alumni who are not only a positive example for our students, but who give to our school to ensure our current students have the same high quality education they received. It is a great, loving family. Like all families, sometimes members move away. Mary-Lee and I will carry the love of the MMI family and the confidence that it will continue to grow so that the next 137 years will be even brighter than the first.

With gratitude and love, Tom and Mary-Lee Hood

MMI Today is the official newsletter of MMI Preparatory School 154 Centre Street Freeland, PA 18224

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D. Scott Wiggins – Interim Head of School Thomas G. Hood – Head of School Emeritus

(570) 636-1108 (570) 636-0742 (fax) mmi@mmiprep.org (email) www.mmiprep.org (Internet)

William A. Shergalis, Ph.D. ’58 – President Emeritus Joseph G. Rudawski – President Emeritus

MMI appoints D. Scott Wiggins interim Head of School for 2016-2017 term The MMI Board of Directors appointed D. Scott Wiggins of New Hope, Pennsylvania, as Interim Head of School for the 2016-2017 school year on May 3.

The appointment comes as part of an ongoing national search for a permanent successor to Thomas G. Hood who announced in January that he accepted a position as Head of School at St. Agnes Academy and St. Dominic School in Memphis, Tennessee.

MMI’s Board of Directors D. Scott Wiggins acted on the recommendation of a search committee comprised of six current and former members of the board of directors, four of them having served as chairs of the board and all of them having graduated from MMI Preparatory School.

In addition to the search committee, Wiggins also met during the interview process with an advisory committee comprised of MMI staff, faculty, parents and students. Then he met with the full Board of Directors before the vote was taken.

He began his duties as Head of School on July 1.

MMI Board Chairman Stanley B. Warner said, “We are very fortunate to find a candidate who has the experience, qualifications and outlook on an independent school education that Wiggins possesses. Scott is a great fit for MMI’s unique culture, and he is the right person to maintain the high standards of the school.”

Following the vote, Wiggins said, “I am honored and privileged to be joining the ranks of such an outstanding independent school that has been providing a world-class college preparatory experience to students in Northeastern Pennsylvania for generations. I look forward to building upon the great works that departing head of school Tom Hood and his predecessors have achieved in making MMI the beacon of educational and personal excellence that it truly is.”

Country Day School in suburban New Orleans, Louisiana. He left independent education temporarily in the late 1980’s to obtain a law degree and for four years served as an Assistant District Attorney for Chester County in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

In 2011, Wiggins authored a chapter in “The Head’s Handbook, A Guide for Aspiring, New, and Experienced Heads of School” that was published by the National Association of Independent Schools.

MMI Board Vice Chairman John H. Hersker ’76 headed the search committee.

“Scott Wiggins was thoroughly vetted by the Search Committee and we believe he has the right character, experience and skills to lead the school while we continue our search for a permanent Head of School,” Hersker said. Other members of the search committee include Andrea A. Kosko ’74, Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III ’82, Brian G. Lucas ’84, Atty. Rebecca Warren ’84, and Stanley B. Warner III ’92.

The Search Committee recommended Wiggins to the Board as an outstanding educator, mentor, and role model.

“Mr. Wiggins impressed us as a man of integrity who has successfully negotiated the ups and downs that any school’s leadership encounters while upholding best practices and good principles,” Hersker said.

Wiggins and his wife Susan are the parents of twin daughters, Cayce and Alexis, who just recently graduated from Manlius Pebble Hill School and will be attending college in the fall. During his interim headship of MMI, Wiggins and his wife will reside at the Head of School’s house on the MMI campus.

“MMI has been very fortunate to have had a distinguished series of Presidents and Heads of School throughout its history,” Warner said. “We will surely miss Tom Hood and wish him and Mary-Lee the best in their pursuits. We are confident that Scott Wiggins will enthusiastically uphold MMI’s 137-year tradition of excellence established by the school’s founders, Eckley B. and Sophia Coxe.”

Wiggins most recently served as Head of School at Manlius Pebble Hill School in Syracuse, New York. Before that he was Head of School at Lawrence Academy in Groton, Massachusetts for eight years. He holds a B.A. in chemistry from Boston University and a J.D. from the College of Law at Arizona State University.

Wiggins has nearly 30 years of experience in independent schools, both as a teacher and as an administrator.

He began his career as an algebra and biology teacher at the Fessenden School in West Newtown, Massachusetts, where he also coached football, ice hockey, and baseball. He subsequently held a series of administrative positions at various schools including Principal of D. Scott Wiggins addresses MMI parents during a reception on May 24 in the gymnasium. the Upper School at the Metairie Park

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The Class of 2016 Andrew Azcueta Alday, son of Dr. Senen Alday and Dr. Milagros Azcueta-Alday, Mountaintop, University of Pittsburgh – Philosophy with a pre-law concentration.

Indkaran Singh Bains, son of Vikram and Ravinder Bains, Sugarloaf, The Pennsylvania State University – Accounting.

Andreas Harry Boosalis, son of Stella Boosalis, White Haven, and Dr. Harry Boosalis, South Canaan, Wilkes University – undeclared.

Charles Joseph Bower, son of Tracy and Stephen Tichy, Drums, and the late Chuck Bower, Gettysburg College – undeclared with a minor in Music.

William Frederick Bower, son of Dr. Kathy Young, Sugarloaf, and Philip Bower, Emmitsburg, Maryland, McDaniel College – Biochemistry with a premedicine concentration.

Samanta Cottone, daughter of Nicolino and Milenka Cottone, Hazleton, University of Scranton – Biology with a pre-medicine concentration.

Sara Rose Davis, daughter of William and Jacqueline Davis, Mountaintop, Lynn University – International Business.

Joseph Thomas Delese, son of Thomas and Wendy Delese, Freeland, Temple University – Engineering.

Desiree Lynn Dinko, daughter of Nicholas and Anita Dinko, White Haven, Immaculata University – Radiology and Nuclear Medicine.

Mikayla Eileen Dove, daughter of Eric and Susan Dove, Mountaintop, Hillsdale College – Psychology with a minor in Music.

Brian James Driscoll, son of John and Susan Driscoll, Hazle Township, Wilkes University – Mechanical Engineering.

Brendan Mitchell Drusda, son of Jeffrey and Linda Drusda, Drums, University of Pittsburgh – Computer Science.

Alyssa Ann Famalette, daughter of Anthony and Joann Famalette, Freeland, Loyola University of Maryland – Biology and Psychology.

Devon Mikle Faul, son of Toby and Shawna Faul, Freeland, South Louisiana Community College – Prop Fabrication.

Brian Anthony Galbiati Jr., son of Brian Galbiati and Cortney Repanshek, Drums, Temple University – Microbiology.

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Andrew Joseph Haber, son of Dr. John and Cathryn Haber, Tresckow, University of Scranton – Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology.

Shaelyn Rae Heft, daughter of Judy Heft, Lehighton, and Norman Heft, Palmerton, Lehigh University – Pre-Medical Sciences.

Edward John Herbener, son of Darrin and Tracy Herbener, Freeland, Bloomsburg University – Finance.

Terrance Lee Jankouskas, son of Terrance Jankouskas and Aprilaurie Whitley, Sugarloaf, The Pennsylvania State University – Computer Engineering and Chinese.

Victoria A. Kline, daughter of Dr. John and Dr. June Kline, Mountaintop, University of Pittsburgh – Marketing and Virtual Design.

Sarah Kathryn Moyer, daughter of Robert and Susan Moyer, Bowmanstown, Elizabethtown College – Chemistry with a minor in German.

Taylor Renee Keyser Peluso, daughter of Chandra Keyser, Hazleton, and Daniel Peluso, Coatesville, Temple University – Marketing.

Jessica Marie Pileggi, daughter of Daniel and Sandra Pileggi, Albrightsville, Temple University – International Business.

Karalyn Margaret Sitch, daughter of Mark and Rosemarie Sitch, Weatherly, Immaculata University – Fashion Merchandising.

Jay Pareshkumar Solgama, son of Paresh and Arti Solgama, Mountaintop, University of Pittsburgh – Neuroscience with a pre-medicine concentration.

Jonathan Edward Stish, son of Lori Stish, Freeland, and the late Mitchell Stish, Temple University – Chemistry.

Lauren Olivia Toscano, daughter of Jessica Toscano, Drums, Ursinus College – Psychology with a minor in Creative Writing.

Lindsey Taylor Walko, daughter of Lawrence Walko and Debbie Brenner-Walko, Drums, Boston University – Stage Management.

Allison Bernadette Warner-Senape, daughter of James Senape and Kimberly Warner-Senape, White Haven, Moravian College – Business Management.

Nash Allan Wenner, son of Darren and Tracy Wenner, Lehighton, Wilkes University – Doctor of Pharmacy Guaranteed Seat Program.

Luke David Yamulla, son of Dr. Robert and Atty. Ann Yamulla, Sugarloaf, Lafayette College – undeclared.

Commencement (continued from page 1) follow your dreams. Find out what is truly important to you,” he said. “Find your passion. Find a way to give back. Not only will you be viewed by others with a great sense of admiration, more importantly, you will be fulfilled inside.”

Rosen was a point guard on MMI’s basketball team and is president of Castle Athletics, a youth basketball organization, and a coach of the 16-and-under team. Founded in 2008, Castle Athletics provides each student with a structural approach for development and, where necessary, tutorial support. Each student is required to meet with a dedicated academic advisor to aid in their education and, ultimately, admission to college. Additionally, each high school student is able to participate in SAT preparation.

Athletically, Castle provides a forum for each student to develop and improve his or her individual skills, develop leadership traits, and, most importantly, engrain good sportsmanship qualities, all in an effort to seize opportunities on the basketball court and beyond. To do this, Castle provides each athlete not only a forum of high level competition throughout the United States and the maximum amount of exposure to collegiate coaches and their respective programs, but also exposure to superior coaching and practice time in an effort to hone their basketball skills.

Rosen and his wife, Evy, live in Chappaqua, NY. They have a daughter, Natalie, 25, and a son, Josh, 21.

During commencement exercises, valedictorian Jay P. Solgama spoke to his fellow graduates about time and how it passes more quickly as you get older, and about the impact of technology on our social interactions.

After sharing a quote from Dutch-American historian Hendrik Van Loon about the passage of a single day taking a thousand years, Solgama said, “It is always interesting and fun to think about unfathomable ideas like this, but as much as we would like to believe we have forever, our time is finite. We have to make the most of the time we have, and I know we all have thus far during our MMI careers.”

Salutatorian Sarah K. Moyer also addressed her classmates about first impressions and unique contributions to MMI made by the Class of 2016. Moyer said, “When we make first impressions, they are rarely about people looking at a list of your accomplishments; instead, they are about the way you speak and interact with others. So it is a credit to the class of 2016 that our legacy will not be only a list of achievements, but that other classes and faculty will remember us by the relationships we have built with them.”

She concluded her speech saying, “Our time together at MMI has changed us from the moment of our arrival, and has led us to the impression we will make on the world.”

Senior Class President Taylor R. Peluso spoke about how each member of the Class of 2016 came a long way since they first arrived at MMI. She said, “Though (freshman orientation) may feel like just yesterday, it isn’t. It is in our past and in our class history. May we never forget this time in our lives, as it is a time that has shaped who we are today.”

She concluded by imparting advice on the themes of diversity, diplomacy and communication that she hoped her classmates would carry into the future.

Valedictorian Jay Solgama

Salutatorian Sarah Moyer

Class President Taylor Peluso

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Students honored at annual awards convocation MMI held its annual Awards Convocation to honor students in ninth through 12th grades.

The Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Awards were presented to senior students who have excelled in their fields of study as follows: Art, Karalyn Sitch; History, Luke Yamulla; English, Brendan Drusda; Science, Math and Spanish, Jay Solgama; Chinese, Terrance Jankouskas; German, Sarah Moyer.

Alyssa Famalette received a scholarship award on behalf of the Pennsylvania Association for College Admission Counseling (PACAC).

MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, far left, presented 2016 MMI ninth grade subject awards to, from left: Alexander Kline, Christine Park, Mahum Ahmed, Frederick Mejia, Alexander Sessock and Daniel DeMelfi.

Brendan Drusda was given the 2016 Jake Kislan ’56 Polonaise Society Award, which honors the highest achieving Polish American graduate of MMI. He also received the Ernest Scheller III Memorial World Wide Scholarship, which is awarded annually to one student on the basis of academic merit, demonstrated leadership and documented civic and community service participation.

MMI subject awards were presented to students in the following categories: Ninth grade: Science and History, Alexander Kline; Art, Chinese and Math, Christine Park; English and Spanish, Frederick Mejia; Music Performance, Alexander Sessock; Music History, Mahum Ahmed; and German, Daniel DeMelfi. 10th grade: English, Chava Kornblatt; Art, John Malay; Math and Music Performance, Aaron Harman; Science, David Caldwell; History and Spanish, Gabriella Kupsho; German, Nicolo Cottone; Chinese, Sydney Karpowich. 11th grade: Science, Anirban Chowdhury; Math and History, Ali Aijaz; Art, Danielle Pileggi; English, Joshua Narrow; German, Garrett Kost; Chinese, Keenan Overa; Spanish, Allison McGeehan.

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Other award presentations included: VFW Voice of Democracy Audio Essay Competition awards, Andrew Decker, Desiree Dinko, Garrett Kost, Gabriella Kupsho and Joshua Narrow; Woodmen of the World American History Award, Sarah Moyer; American Math Competition Exam 12A and 12B first-place awards, Anirban Chowdhury; American Math Competition Exam 10A first-place award, Zachary Young; Student Mathematics Club of Marywood University regional math exam Level 2 first-place award, Anirban Chowdhury; Professor John Steiner Gold Math Exam award, Ali Aijaz. Wilkes University/ Luzerne County Council of Teachers of Mathematics awards were given as follows: junior level second place, Ali Aijaz; junior level fourth place, Nicholas Young; senior level first place, Brendan Drusda; senior level second place, Sarah Moyer; senior level fourth place award, Andrew Alday; senior level team category first place, Sarah Moyer, Andrew Alday and Brendan Drusda; ACS High School Chemistry Competition Exam B first-place award, Anirban Chowdhury; Penn State Hazleton science fair first place, Gabriella Kupsho; Penn State Hazleton Science fair

MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, far left, presented 2016 MMI 10th grade subject awards to, from left: David Caldwell, John Malay, Gabriella Kupsho, Chava Kornblatt, Sydney Karpowich and Nicolo Cottone. Aaron Harman also received a subject award.

MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, far left, presented 2016 MMI 11th grade subject awards to, from left: Ali Aijaz, Anirban Chowdhury, Danielle Pileggi, Allison McGeehan, Joshua Narrow, Garrett Kost and Keenan Overa.

MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood, far right, presented the Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Awards to, from left: Terrance Jankouskas, Luke Yamulla, Karalyn Sitch, Sarah Moyer, Brendan Drusda and Jay Solgama. third place, Joshua Kalada-Kania; Envirothon first-place team, Joshua Kalada-Kania, Samuel Sessock, Taylor Peluso, Sarah Moyer and Jay Solgama. Academic and community service awards were presented as follows: George Eastman Kodak Young Leaders Award and Scholarship, Dana Carrato; Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award, Ali Aijaz; Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award in Humanities and Social Sciences, Joey Kress; Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology, Niklas Byriel; Rensselaer Medal Award, Anirban Chowdhury; Bryn Mawr Book Award, Katherine Eschenbach; Sage

Colleges Student Sage Award, Samuel Sessock and Kevin Cibak; University of Pennsylvania Book Award, Joshua Narrow; Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award, Jonathan Smith; Wellesley College Club Book Award, Allison McGeehan; Chatham University Rachel Carson Book Award, Lois Polashenski; and Elmira College Key Awards, Olivia Minzola and Keenan Overa; Rochester Institute of Technology Computing Medal, Megan Marchetti and Niklas Byriel; Rochester Institute of Technology Innovation and Creativity Awards, Joey Kress and Nicholas Young.

MMI students inducted into six honor societies MMI hosted induction ceremonies for several honor societies this spring.

National Junior Honor Society inductees are: Philip Byriel, Carter Frask, Ryan Halterman, Catherine Havrilla, Alexander Jordan, Marcus Kassick, Harrison Kress, Paige Machulsky, Kai Mele, Benjamin Putnam, Maya Rizkalla, Josue Rodriguez, Adam Tron, Abbey Walters, Grant Warren, Harriet Wilson, Christian Yamulla and Macy Zenier.

Emily Ankiewicz and Carly Pennington were honored for their previous induction into the National Junior Honor Society at their former schools.

National Junior Latin Honor Society inductees are: Philip Byriel, Ryan Halterman, Catherine Havrilla, Marcus Kassick, Harrison Kress, Paige Machulsky, Benjamin Putnam, Maya Rizkalla, Josue Rodriguez, Adam Tron, Grant Warren and Macy Zenier.

Spanish language students inducted into the Pablo Picasso Chapter of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica are: Angelica Alday, Caitlyn Kline, Chava Kornblatt, Gabriella Kupsho, Caelyn McGran, Mahad Muhammad, Jessica Smith and Julia Snyder.

Chinese language students inducted

into MMI’s Echoes of Wisdom and Philosophy chapter of the National Chinese Honor Society are: Ryan Eschenbach, Olivia Minzola, Keenan Overa, Danielle Pileggi and Erin Sari.

German language students inducted into the Simon Faltz Chapter of the German National Honor Society, Delta Epsilon Phi are: David Caldwell and Nicolo Cottone.

Students inducted into MMI’s Chroma Chapter of the National Art Honor Society are: Victoria Kline, Danielle Pileggi, Kryslyn Postupack and Erin Sari.

MMI holds eighth grade promotion ceremony MMI recognized 26 rising freshmen during its annual Eighth Grade Promotion ceremony.

Assistant Head of School Charles C. Seidel distributed awards and certificates of recognition to the students.

Class advisors Timothy Garvey and Kathryn Green, and Head of School Thomas G. Hood, all gave remarks during the ceremony.

Class advisers Kathryn Green and Timothy Garvey both gave remarks at the ceremony.

Students completing eighth grade and advancing to their

The students pose in the courtyard with their class advisers following the ceremony.

freshmen year are: Emily Ankiewicz, Callain Blasko, Philip Byriel, Ayla Cooper, Carter Frask, Ryan Halterman, Catherine Havrilla, Madyson Hornack, Alexander James, Marcus Kassick, Harrison Kress, Paige Machulsky, Kai Mele, Molly O’Connell, Carly Pennington, Benjamin Putnam, Maya Rizkalla, Josue Rodriguez, Joshua Serock, Adam Tron, Abbey Walters, Harriet Wilson, Jared Wimmer, Christian Yamulla and Macy Zenier.

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Wister Quartet returns for 13th year For the 13th consecutive year, MMI hosted the Grammynominated Wister Quartet for a public performance at the school. The April 4 performance was made possible through the support of Dr. James W. Feussner ’65 and was held in memory of his wife, Elizabeth.

MMI students join the Wister Quartet at a concert offered for the student body.

Once again this year the Wister Quartet performed with ranging from complete melodies, melodies with harmonies, guitarist Allen Krantz, a critically acclaimed guitarist, composer musical ideas, rhythmic ideas, textural ideas, as well as plot and chamber musician. Members of the quartet include and architectural ideas for how the pieces should be put violinists Nancy Bean and Davyd Booth, violist Pamela Fay and together. The result is a most impressive set of pieces built cellist Lloyd Smith. around the idea of the contrast between a restful dream state This year’s program was entitled “Musical Personas” and and the intrusion of either nightmare or unsettling thoughts featured music composed by Mauro Giuliani, Augustín Barrios or memories that temporarily get in the way of the restful and Felix Mendelssohn. The program also included three pieces state. Nearly everything in these pieces was contributed by the developed from ideas by MMI students and arranged by Lloyd students. I merely organized and scored the music.”

Smith.

The Wister Quartet also performed for MMI students during Smith said, “The string students at MMI participated in an afternoon assembly at the school the day of the concert. two composing workshops and contributed a wealth of ideas,

MMI thanks donors at annual reception

The Head of School’s Donor Recognition Reception was held Saturday, March 12.

The evening featured cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in The Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center, followed by a performance of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” 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.

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Students shine at Open House An annual tradition, MMI’s Open House again featured everything from research projects to ethnic cooking samples from around the world.

All students from sixth-graders to seniors, displayed, explained, and demonstrated their projects in classrooms and locations throughout the school at this year’s event.

Parents and visitors toured the school from room to room to examine a variety of student projects, including many in the areas of literature, mathematics, science, and social studies. Then, they visited the cafeteria to sample the food items.

Students projects were done under the guidance of faculty advisers. Each project was then evaluated during Open House by a panel of judges from Penn State Hazleton. MMI’s in-house chef evaluated the food projects. The winners were honored at a special assembly.

Brendan Drusda, Jay Solgama and Andrew Alday won first place for their project, “Desi Pinoy.”

Level 2 awards were given to ninthand 10th-grade students and Level 3 awards to 11th- and 12th-grade students.

Winners were: Cooking: first place, Andrew Alday, Brendan Drusda and Jay Solgama, “DesiPinoy;” second place, Karalyn Sitch and Luke Yamulla, “Food to Finish.”

Humanities: Level 2 – first place, Jessica McClellan tied for second place for her science project, “How Roller Coasters Work.”

Mahum Ahmed, “The Great Gatsby;” second place, Aaron Harman, “Nice to Science: Level 2 – first place, David Caldwell, “Effects of Siege You! (Medieval Siege Weaponry); Honorable Mention, Oregano Oil on E.coli;” second place (tie), Jessica McClellan, Alexander Sessock, “Blacksmithing.” Level 3 – first place, Devon “How Roller Coasters Work” and Joshua Kalada-Kania, Faul, “Frankenstein;” second place, Jonathan Smith, “Donald “Integrated Multi Trophic Aquaculture.” Level 3 – first place, Trump’s Use of Language.”

Lois Polashenski, “Brushfire Algorithm;” second place, Megan Marchetti, “3D Printing.”

Sixth-grade students host science fair

MMI held the annual sixth grade science fair on May 11. Student projects were judged by MMI’s Science Honor Society memberss, PJAS participating students, faculty and staff. At left, Dustin Paul displays his project on the Effects of Drinks on Teeth. At right, Mackenzie Igdalsky showcases her project on The Effect of Color for Memorization.

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MMI’s Board of Directors Members of the Board of Directors include, front row, from left: De Ann Miller, Anne J. Frey and Atty. Rebecca Warren ’84. Second row: Chairman Stanley B. Warner ’92, Norman Dick ’87 and Richard A. DiLiberto ’79. Third row: John H. Hersker’76, William Spear Jr. ’79 and Brian G. Lucas ’84.

Fourth row: Nicholas L. Dei Tos ’71, Edward Kushma ’62 and Head of School Thomas G. Hood.

8th annual golf tournament a success MMI hosted 102 golfers on June 17 at the eighth annual Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament at the Valley Country Club. The tournament supports athletics and student athletes at MMI. The team of Frank Cabell, Brian Harman, Jay Marks and Steve Walser captured first place in the first flight.

Second place in the first flight went to the team of Jay Breslin, Rob Lemoncelli, Jerry Ranieli and Jason Tribbet.

First place in the second flight went to Anthony Doughty, Ed Kushma ’62, Ed Kushma II and Glenn Kushma, while second-place winners in the second flight were Harold Karchner, Tom Sandrock, Jack St. Pierre and Dave Yeager.

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PNC Bank was the tournament’s Eagle Sponsor for the eighth consecutive year and DBi Services was the Birdie Sponsor. Additional sponsors were: Golf Ball Sponsor - Genetti Catering, Golf Shirt Sponsor - Tri County Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Golf Cart Sponsor - North Penn Charitable Foundation, Beverage Cart

Sponsor - Pocono Raceway, Holein-One Sponsor - F&L Doors, Raffle Sponsor - Mr. John H. Hersker ’76 and On-Course Contest Sponsors Architerra, PC and Hazleton Casting Company.

Hole Sponsors were: Bryn Mawr Head of School Thomas G. Hood, far right, and Director of Advancement Kim Trust Company; McNulty, far left, stand with the first flight winning team of, from left, Jay Marks, Steve Walser, Brian Harman and Frank Cabell.

Mr. Frank and Dr. Christine Cabell ‘89; Candlewood Suites Hazleton; Domenic Imbriaco Construction Co., Inc.; Dryfoos Insurance Agency; Embroidery Factory; Golden Business Machines; Harman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc.; Hazle Drugs and Hazle Compounding; Hemmler + Camayd Architects; Ron and Rosalie Hreha; JonesKohanski Accountants and Consultants; The Kushma Family; Atty. Al “Whitey” Maier; The Family of Athena Nicholas ‘17; Frank, Sandy and Anthony Above, MMI Interim Head of School ‘06 Orlando; PGi Promotions, D. Scott Wiggins tries to chip the Inc.; Precision Design; Dr. and ball through the bear. At right, Neal Mrs. William Shergalis ‘58 and DeAngelo III, of DBi Services, plays Wallen Graphics. one of the on-course contests.

Students earn awards at PJAS competitions MMI students placed first on 32 of the 45 projects they submitted at the state Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competition in May at Penn State University’s main campus.

MMI received 12 second-place awards and one third-place award. Forty-one students competed in the state event, including six mid-school students.

During the regional competition earlier in the year held at Wilkes University, 45 of MMI’s 55 entrants placed first. Ali Aijaz, Gabriella DeMelfi, Garrett Kost, and Chava Kornblatt all placed first with a perfect score in their events.

Anirban Chowdhury and Elizabeth Pinto both qualified for a summer research fellowship at The Commonwealth Medical College, while

Garrett Kost and Joshua Kalada-Kania received a summer research fellowship at Lacawac Sanctuary. Senior High Excellence Awards were given to Alyssa Famalette (in microbiology), Garrett Kost (biochemistry) and Chava Kornblatt (biology), and Alexander Kline received a Junior High Excellence Award in engineering.

Ali Aijaz, Lois Polashenski and Abigail Paul each finished first in two events. Additional first-place finishers were: Alyssa Famalette, Shaelyn Heft, Jay Solgama, Niklas Byriel, Dana Carrato, Anirban Chowdhury, Gabriella DeMelfi, Megan Marchetti, Joshua Narrow, Kisan Patel, Elizabeth Pinto, Erin Sari, Samuel Sessock, Jessica Smith, Jonathan Smith, Nicholas Young, Angelica Alday, Lauren Babinetz, David Caldwell, Anna Haber, Joshua Kalada-Kania, Gabriella

Kupsho, Jakob Schwabe, Julia Snyder, Elizabeth Borchick, Nicholas Carrato, Andrew Decker, Alexander Kline, Jessica McClellan, Alexander Sessock, Zachary Young, Louis DeAngelo, McKenna Gallagher, Morgan Hosier, Jacqueline Snyder, Ella Urosevich and Peter Walko.

Second-place finishers were: Sarah Moyer, Michael Badamo, Sydney Karpowich, Mahad Muhammad, Stephanie Zellner, Wesley Guarneri, Keefer Hoover, Morgan Long, Frederick Mejia, Brian Payne, Bailey Slusser and Coleman Smith.

Jai-Jacob Hoover finished third. In recognition of competing for three or more years, seniors Sarah Moyer (six years), Jay Solgama (five years), Shaelyn Heft (four years), and Alyssa Famalette (three years), all received perseverance awards.

Honoring MMI’s 2015-16 faculty before graduation Members of the MMI faculty pose for their photograph before commencement. Front row, from left: Patty Medvecky, Mary-Lee Hood, Donna Titus, Susan Moyer, Christine Lizbinski, Kathryn Green and Christina Spencer. Second row: Stella Boosalis, Stephanie Shandra, Jennifer Novotney, Nancy Lotz, Grete DeAngelo and Katherine Zucco. Third row: Michael Scarlato, Madison Below, Lisa Ferry and Todd Ronco. Fourth row: Gerard Pierotti, Timothy Garvey, Daniel DeMelfi, Michael Mele, Head of School Thomas G. Hood and Dennis Clarke.

Fifth row: Jason Tribbet, Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, T.R. Laputka and Anthony Cusat.

Thank you to the 2015-16 MMI staff and administration

Members of the MMI staff and administration pose for their photograph before commencement.

Front row, from left: Teresa Kairewich, Christina Spencer, Joanne Oakum, Head of School Thomas G. Hood, Marci Hosier and Kim McNulty. Second row: Justin Vincent, T. R. Laputka and Joseph Stepansky. Third row: Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, Ryan Jastremsky and Jason Tribbet.

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Four students attend national FBLA conference Ten of MMI’s 31 competitors placed in the top 10 in their respective categories at the 2016 Pennsylvania FBLA State Leadership Conference, including four students who placed in the top four and advanced to the FBLA National Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. The state competition was held April 11-13 in Hershey.

Allison McGeehan placed second in the Business Law category and was honored in a recognition ceremony at the conclusion of the awards program for being elected to serve the state chapter on the Executive Committee as the 20162017 Pennsylvania FBLA State Reporter.

Joshua Narrow, Joey Kress and Nicholas Young placed fourth for their work in Marketing and joined Allison McGeehan at the national conference in Atlanta from June 29 to July 2.

Keenan Overa, Garrett Kost and Olivia Minzola placed sixth in the Business Plan category, Anirban Chowdhury finished sixth in Business Calculations and Jessica Pileggi and Danielle Pileggi were eighth for their work in Public Service Announcement.

During the FBLA Region 16 Leadership Conference in Wilkes-Barre, seven students received first place awards in their respective categories. Allison McGeehan finished first in Business Law, Elizabeth Borchick was tops in Graphic Design, Alyssa Sweda led the field in Introduction to Business, Chava Kornblatt brought home top honors in Introduction to Business Communication

Thirty-one MMI students competed at the 2016 Pennsylvania FBLA State Leadership Conference in Harrisburg. Pictured are, first row, from left: Joey Kress, Olivia Minzola, Allison McGeehan, Lauren Herman, Alyssa Sweda, Christine Park, Elizabeth Borchick and Chava Kornblatt. Second row: Zachary Young, Morgan Long, Stephanie Zellner, Danielle Pileggi, Jessica Pileggi, Kaitlyn Bellizia, Kisan Patel, Nicholas Young and FBLA adviser Katherine Zucco. Third row: Wesley Guarnari, James Lambert, Jacob Schwabe, Joshua Narrow, Anirban Chowdhury, Keenan Overa, Garrett Kost, Kevin Cibak, Marc Lobitz and Tyler Degenhart. William Bower, Evan Dryfoos, Douglas Genetti, Joseph Taylor and Alexander Kline also competed at the event.

and Joey Kress, Joshua Narrow and Nicholas Young all came in first in Marketing.

Anirban Chowdhury (Business Calculations) and William Bower (Future Business Leaders) both were second.

Jakob Schwabe (Computer Solving Problems), Kaitlyn Bellizia and Christine Park (both in Graphic Design), Wesley Guarneri (Introduction to Business) and Alexander Kline (Introduction to Information Technology) finished third.

Fifth place finishers were Douglas Genetti (Agribusiness), Morgan Long (Introduction to Information Technology), Joseph Taylor (Introduction to Parliamentary Procedures), Zachary Young (Introduction to Financial Math) and Gabriella Kupsho, Julia Snyder and Madison Perchak (all in Global Business).

Kisan Patel (Health Care Administration) and Tyler Degenhart (Introduction to Financial Math) finished in seventh place.

Earning fourth place were Marc Lobitz (Business Law), Lauren Herman (Introduction to Business), Stephanie Zellner (Introduction to Business Communication), James Lambert (Introduction to Parliamentary Procedures) and Evan Dryfoos (Insurance and Risk Management).

Jessica Pileggi and Danielle Pileggi also attended the State Leadership Conference for the creation of their Public Service Announcement, as well as Garrett Kost, Olivia Minzola and Keenan Overa for their work in the Business Plan category. Katherine Zucco is MMI’s FBLA chapter club adviser.

MMI wins four awards at Mock Trial competition MMI juniors Allison McGeehan and Kevin Cibak and sophomores John Malay and Mahad Muhammad each won awards during the Pennsylvania Bar Association Mock Trial district competition at the Luzerne County Courthouse in WilkesBarre.

Allison McGeehan and Kevin Cibak both won best advocate awards. John Malay and Mahad Muhammad were each crowned best witness. The winners were chosen by the opposing team. Marc Lobitz, Joshua Narrow, Garrett Kost and Ali Aijaz also competed as lawyers and Hunter O’Clair, Jakob Schwabe, Evan Dryfoos and Erin Sari each took the stand as witnesses.

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MMI was appearing in the Mock Trial competition for the 29th consecutive year.

MMI competed at the Pennsylvania Bar Association Mock Trial district competition at the Luzerne County Courthouse in Wilkes-Barre. Pictured are, first row, from left: Front Row: Allison McGeehan, Erin Sari and John Malay. Second row: Jonathan Smith, Evan Dryfoos, Joshua Narrow, Mark Lobitz, Mahad Muhammad and adviser Dennis Clarke. Third row: Jakob Schwabe, Garrett Kost, Ali Aijaz, Hunter O’Clair and Kevin Cibak.

Five teams finish in top 15 at Envirothon competition Five MMI teams finished in the top 15 overall out of 36 teams at the 2016 Luzerne County Envirothon.

The Luzerne County Conservation District coordinates and sponsors the Envirothon, an annual environmental competition held each spring for high school students in grades 9-12. It tests their knowledge of the environment with five 100-point tests: aquatics, forestry, soils, wildlife, and a current topic. A cumulative score is tabulated based on the performance in those five tests.

The team of Joshua Kalada-Kania, Samuel Sessock, Taylor Peluso, Sarah Moyer, and Jay Solgama captured first place with 410 out of a possible 500 points and clinched the top category in the individual components of aquatics, current topic, soils, and wildlife. They represented Luzerne County in the twoday Pennsylvania Envirothon on May 24 and 25 at Susquehanna University.

Alexander Sessock, Joseph Delese, Lauren Babinetz, Garrett Kost, and Lois Polashenski combined to finish second with 305 points and clinched the top category award for Forestry. The team of Elise Hreha, Kelisa Hysenbegasi,

Five MMI teams finished in the top 15 overall out of 36 teams at the 2016 Luzerne County Envirothon.

Pictured are, first row, from left: Lauren Babinetz, Taylor Peluso, Sarah Moyer, and Lois Polashenski.

Second row: Joshua Kalada-Kania, Samuel Sessock, and Alexander Sessock. Third row: Garrett Kost, Jay Solgama, Joseph Delese, and adviser Michael Mele.

Christine Park, Wesley Guarneri, and Amanda Kalada-Kania came in sixth with 268 points. Stephanie Zellner, Jessica Pileggi, Samanta Cottone, Mikayla Dove, and Alyssa Famalette came together to place ninth with 250 points. The team

Five receive National Merit Scholarship recognition

of Sara Davis, Kayla Leonard, Andrew Haber, Lauren Matyas, and Gabriella DeMelfi finished in 13th place with 239 points.

Mid School semi formal

Five MMI juniors will receive 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program recognition after placing among the top 50,000 out of 1.5 million participants on the qualifying test.

Ali Aijaz, Anirban Chowdhury, Allison McGeehan, Samuel Sessock and Nicholas Young finished among the top 50,000 nationwide on the Preliminary SAT (PSAT)/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT). All five students recorded a Selection Index score of 209 or above and have the opportunity to be one of the 16,000 students who will be named National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalists in September.

The annual Mid School semi formal was held on February 20. Everyone really got into the spirit of the Mardi Gras theme.

Help MMI go green!

Visit mmiprep.org/update and enter your address to receive updates via email

MMI juniors, from left, Samuel Sessock, Allison McGeehan, Ali Aijaz, Anirban Chowdhury and Nicholas Young will receive 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program recognition after placing among the top 50,000 out of 1.5 million participants on the qualifying test.

Get MMI news, invitations, reminders, and announcements in your inbox. Just visit mmiprep.org/update to easily add your email address to your alumni record. While you are at it, feel free to update any other information, as well. Start taking advantage of the broad MMI alumni network and stay in touch with your school and past classmates. Questions or comments? Contact Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org.

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Homecoming Weekend Save the date! Sept. 16-17, 2016 This year’s homecoming celebration will be held Friday and Saturday September 16 and 17, and will honor reunion classes ending in -1 and -6. On Friday evening MMI will host a Reunion Dinner Dance at Valley Country Club from 5:309:30 p.m. This inaugural event will include a cocktail hour, dinner, dancing and a fun photo booth! All alumni are invited to attend but reunion classes will have designated seating together so that members can reminisce about their times together at MMI. Reunion classes are also welcome to plan their own separate events if they would prefer.

The Annual Homecoming Picnic is Saturday from 12 to 3 p.m. All alumni and their families are invited to attend the picnic featuring great food and friendship. Highlights include raffle drawings, campus tours and the opportunity to visit with classmates and friends.

The MMI Wall of Fame Induction will follow from 6 to 10 p.m. An elegant induction ceremony will honor this year’s additions to the MMI Wall of Fame. The cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow at 7 p.m. in the MMI Athletics and Drama Complex. This year’s inductees are: Dr. Thomas J. Conahan Jr. ’26 * (Community Service) • Dr. Conahan’s father attended MMI when it was a night school and he was a mine foreman.

He sent two children to MMI, John ’22 and Tom ’26.

• Attended Lehigh on a scholarship and earned his M.D. at Jefferson Medical College in 1934.

• Completed certification in radiology and established a practice in Hazleton.

• Served as head of Radiology at Hazleton State General Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital for his entire career, including two stints as Chief of the Medical Staff.

• President of Dryfoos Insurance Group since 1998.

• MMI Board of Directors member from 1995-2004, from 2005-2013 and again beginning in 2016. Includes two terms as Chairman, two terms as Vice Chairman, and one term as Secretary.

• Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors member from 2008-2014. Chairman of the Board 2010-2012.

• Boy Scouts of America from 2007-present.

• Currently serves as Minsi Trails Commissioner.

• CAN DO Board of Directors member from 2005-present, including three years as Chairman.

• Secretary of the Sophia G. Coxe Charitable Trust Fund, Inc. Board of Directors.

• President of the congregation of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church.

• Greater Hazleton United Way Board of Directors member from 1995-2004. Chairman of the Board 2002-2004.

• A West Point graduate, he served five years in the military and five years on the Conyngham Borough Council.

• Also has served as a member of: Leadership Hazleton Board of Directors, Hazleton Chapter of the American Red Cross Board of Directors, Board of Trustees of The LWS Foundation, U.S. Military Academy Review Board, Federal Judicial Nominating Commission of the Middle District of PA, Board of Directors of Great Valley Technology Alliance, Assistant Coach in the Valley West Little League and Mountain View Cemetery Association Board of Directors.

John E. Hollis ’64 (Athletic Achievement)

• President of Luzerne County Medical Society and VP of the PA Radiological Society.

• Ranks 7th all-time in scoring in basketball with 1,311 total points.

• MMI Board of Directors member from 1955-81 including serving as Secretary from 1969-1981.

• Scored four points in MMI’s memorable 7-4 win over West Hazleton.

• Board of Directors member at Peoples First National Bank until his death in 1987. Also served as Secretary.

• President of the Heart Fund and head of physicians branch of two United Way Fund drives.

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Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III ’82 (Community Service)

• Selected Fifth Team All-State in 1962.

• Organized the physicians group for CAN DO fundraising efforts.

• Was inducted as part of the 1964 Basketball Team to the Wall of Fame in 2010.

• Was a member of the American Cancer Society Board of Directors, Catholic Social Services Board of Directors and the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

• Ended his senior baseball season with Best ERA, Best Pitcher, and Team MVP accolades.

• Sent his two sons to MMI with Tim graduating in 1959 and Jim graduating in 1968. * - denotes posthumous honor.

• Played four years on MMI’s baseball and basketball teams.

• Attended Bloomsburg University where he competed on both the basketball and baseball teams.

Homecoming Weekend Lewis J. Matuella ’77 (Athletic Achievement) • Ranks 14th all-time in scoring in basketball with 1,002 points.

• Averaged 23.1 points per game in his senior season and was ranked the third leading scorer in the Hazleton area with 576 points.

• Scored 30+ points in six basketball games during his senior year campaign including a high of 36 against Tamaqua.

• Batted over .400 his senior baseball season while pitching and playing shortstop.

• MMI Team MVP in basketball and baseball (twice) and lettered all four years of high school in both sports.

• Named to the Hughie McGeehan League All-Star Baseball Team in 1975 and 1977.

• Named to the WAZL Coaches All-Star Basketball Team in 1977.

• Also lettered in golf at MMI in 1976 and 1977.

• Played as the starting first baseman on back to back Pennsylvania State Championship teams in the Hazleton Little League in 1971 and the Freeland Babe Ruth League in 1972.

Farewell, friends!

MMI holds reception to honor to Dennis Clarke, Tom & Mary-Lee Hood

MMI held a farewell celebration for Señor Dennis Clarke, Head of School Tom Hood and Mary-Lee Hood on May 21 at the school. Clarke retired at the end of the 2015-16 school year after 36 years of teaching at MMI. Tom Hood was Head of School for the past eight years before accepting a position at St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School in Memphis, Tennessee, in January. Mary-Lee Hood spent five years as a member of the MMI faculty.

BB&T, FNCB make EITC contributions

BB&T Bank contributed $5,000 to MMI through the Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. From left: Kim McNulty, MMI Director of Advancement; Thomas G. Hood, MMI Head of School; Lisa Kreisl, BB&T Market Leader; and David McCarthy, BB&T Bank Business Services Officer and Senior Vice President.

Frank Kost ’02, center, returned to MMI on behalf of FNCB Bank to make a contribution to the school’s Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program.

Kost is assistant vice president, applications service analyst for FNCB Bank.

Also pictured are MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood and MMI Director of Advancement Kim McNulty.

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Faces in the Crowd Juniors Ali Aijaz and Anirban Chowdhury were accepted into the summer 2016 Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University.

Seniors Andrew Alday and Shaelyn Heft were named the Hazleton Elks Lodge #200 Teenagers of the Year.

Senior Andrew Alday was selected as one of only ten University of Pittsburgh 2016 Nordenberg Leadership Scholars. Alday has accepted a full-tuition scholarship to attend the University of Pittsburgh and will study philosophy as a pre-law track.

In February, the seventh grade students pioneered a World Peace Poster Contest in their Ancient Civilizations class in conjunction with their study of Ancient India, Hinduism, Buddhism and other world religions. The top three winners at each level were: Morgan Allen, Lindsay Braunstein and Hannah Falatko.

The MMI varsity baseball team participated in the Strike Out Cancer Tournament on April 9. Through t-shirt sales and program ads, this tournament raised funds to fight cancer through various charities.

MMI teams swept the top three positions in the eighth grade division in the year-long edition of the Stock Market Game for the University of Scranton region. The team of Ayla Cooper, Carly Pennington, Harriet Wilson and Maya Rizkalla captured first place in the competition.

Madyson Hornack, Benjamin Putnam, Joshua Serock and Grant Warren came in second. Emily Ankiewicz, Catrina Havrilla, Adam Tron, Macy Zenier and Abbey Walters finished third.

All the proceeds from ticket sales for the Preppers’ varsity basketball game against G.A.R. on January 29 were donated to Coaches vs. Cancer. Additionally, the basketball team collected funds through a t-shirt and towel sale and raised $2,000 in donations!

Freshman Elliot Blasko won the overall title in MMI’s Spring Best of the Best competition for his speech entitled “How to Be Funny.” Additional Best of the Best competitors and their assembly presentations were: seventh grader Irene Altmiller, “Number 32: Christian Laettner;” junior Eric Degenhart, “Liberty of Babel;” freshman Kaitlyn McGeehan, “The Human Memory;” and seventh grader Jacqueline Snyder, “Lucy the Elephant.”

The Borealis Wind Quintet, one of America’s preeminent chamber ensembles, performed for MMI students as part of the community outreach program of the Greater Hazleton Concert Series.

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Five MMI Spanish students were honored for being among the top students in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese. Juniors Ali Aijaz and Daniel Tron, freshmen Alexander Sessock, Frederick Mejia and Maxwell Santana, as well as MMI Spanish instructor Dennis Clarke, received awards during the local chapter’s Spanish Contest Awards dinner in May. Eighth grader Ayla Cooper won MMI’s competition in the first round of the 28th annual National Geographic Bee and advanced to the state competition for a chance at a $50,000 college scholarship. Eighth grader Benjamin Putnam finished second in the school’s competition.

Ten MMI students placed in the top three within the school’s competition on the Mathematical Association of America’s American Mathematics Competition 8 (AMC 8) with seventh grader Charles Dick earning school winner honors.

In the eighth grade competition, Grant Warren placed first, Philip Byriel and Marcus Kassick were second and Kai Mele, Adam Tron and Abbey Walters finished third.

In the seventh grade competition, Charles Dick placed first, Hannah Falatko and Kevin McNulty were second and Hunter Blasko came in third.

Sixth grade students Lucy Butkiewicz, Jocelyn Horvath, Alex Smith and Logan Slusser participated in the PMEA District 9 Chorus Fest on May 6. Additionally a number of students participated in PMEA District 9 String Fest earlier this spring where eighth grader Molly O’Connell earned 2nd chair in her violin section.

Seventh grader Morgan Hosier also represented MMI in the District 9 Band Festival.

Senior Brendan Drusda captured first place in the senior division and was awarded a full scholarship to Wilkes University for any program or degree during the 68th annual Luzerne County Council of Teachers of Mathematics competition at Wilkes University. Sarah Moyer finished second in the senior division and Ali Aijaz was second in the junior division. Andrew Alday came in fourth in the senior division and Nicholas Young was fourth in the junior division. The team of Alday, Drusda and Moyer placed first in the senior division.

Junior Dana Carrato was selected to attend the 2016 Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Agricultural Sciences (PGSAS) at Penn State University.

Juniors Katherine Eschenbach, Keenan Overa and Jessica Smith were three of 76 students from around the world selected to participate in the Pennsylvania School for Global Entrepreneurship at Lehigh University.

Sophomores Jett Chen, Chava Kornblatt and Stephanie Zellner were selected to attend the 2016 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards conference this summer at Keystone College.

German I students ran a “German Restaurant” preparing dialogues and skits to better utilize their language skills while German III students took advantage of a beautiful April day to walk the Freeland Trails and look for various items (Schnitzeljagd) and hold discussions in German.

Additionally, Chinese I and Chinese II students prepared food projects to learn about authentic Chinese dishes, ingredients and culture.

MMI’s Chinese language students and Spanish language students took their annual field trips to NYC this spring.

AP Biology students conducted DNA gel electrophoresis in lab during the last week in February.

Faces in the Crowd

(continued)

Senior basketball players Edward Herbener and Jonathan Stish both earned Wyoming Valley Conference Coaches Association Division 3 honors and were selected to participate in the Wyoming Valley Conference Senior All-Star Game. Herbener was named to the Division 3 first team while Stish received Division 3 second team honors.

MMI’s junior class visited Gettysburg College and Shippensburg University on April 5 with college admissions counselor Stephanie Shandra.

Sophomores Gabriella Kupsho and Joshua Kalada-Kania finished in the top three in Penn State Hazleton’s second annual Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Research Fair competition in the Evelyn Graham Academic Building on the Penn State Hazleton campus.

Kupsho captured first place for her “Do bacteria get stressed out, too?” project. Joshua Kalada-Kania placed third for his project, “Aquatic algal filtration.”

MMI’s Interact Club helped the United Junior Allison Way of Greater Hazleton and the McGeehan and National Association of Letter Carriers eighth grader Stamp Out Hunger by sorting and Abbey Walters delivering non-perishable food items on captured first Saturday, May 14. MMI’s Interact Club place in their also helped clean up Rails to Trails on respective age April 18 and they chipped in to clean divisions in the up the Freeland Public Park in honor of 21st Annual Israel Earth Day. T. and Mildred Klapper Memorial Holocaust Essay Contest which is sponsored jointly by the Hazleton Jewish Community Council and the Greater Hazleton Ministerial Association.

Kelly McGlynn, Assistant Director of Admissions at St. Joseph’s University conducted a college essay writing workshop for MMI juniors with college admissions counselor Stephanie Shandra on March 10 Several MMI world language students attained national recognition for their performance on the 2016 National Spanish Examinations.

At the Spanish I level, freshmen Frederick Mejia and Maxwell Santana earned gold medals; Alexander Sessock and Alexander

As part of their Senior Seminar Class, the senior class participated in a High Ropes Team Building Program at Wilkes University where they faced a series of challenges that tested their resolve, problem solving and leadership skills, and trust for one another.

Kline received silver medals; Kelisa Hysenbegasi, Morgan Long, Kaitlyn McGeehan and Zachary Young won bronze medals. In Spanish 2, sophomore Gabriella Kupsho took home a silver medal.

Junior Ali Aijaz captured a silver medal in Spanish 3 while juniors Anirban Chowdhury, Kayla Leonard and Allison McGeehan won bronze medals.

English instructor Jennifer Novotney was selected by the Pennsylvania Council of Teachers of English Language Arts as one of only 10 national Senior Nash recipients of Wenner the 2016 High finished School Teachers 26th in the of Excellence nation in the Award.

Junior Men’s Junior Danielle (16-17-yearPileggi is old) one of only boardercross 160 students division at worldwide the 27th annual United States of America selected to Snowboard and Freeski Association attend this year’s (USASA) National Championships at Leadership in Copper Mountain Resort in Colorado. the Business World program offered by Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Freeland native and local history researcher Charlotte Tancin visited MMI to narrate a presentation of historical photographs of Freeland and the surrounding areas. Tancin spoke to a packed audience inside The Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center.

Senior Lauren Toscano won a Gold Key award in the Scholastic Writing Awards’ Northeast Writing Region-at-Large competition for her writing portfolio, “I Wasn’t There.” Senior Lindsey Walko and junior Joshua Narrow both won a Silver Key award.

Eighth grader Adam Tron and sixth grader Anna Cabell placed fourth in the “Write-it, Do-it” middle school event at Science Olympiad.

A number of 11th and 12th grade students visited Washington, D.C. on March 17 with history teacher Michael Scarlato. They visited Arlington, The Capital, where they had their photo taken with Congressman Lou Barletta, The Supreme Court and Udvar-Hazy.

Senior Lindsey Walko, junior Joshua Narrow, and senior Charles Bower finished in the top three at the Pennsylvania School Press Association (PSPA) Student Journalism Competition State Championship finals. Walko captured first place in the Copywriting competition. Narrow finished second in the Poetry division and Bower took third in Literary Magazine Artwork.

MMI welcomed yoga instructor and current parent, Judy Zenier, to Mrs. Madison Below’s sixth grade class last week. Students learned that yoga is a 5,000 year old form of exercising both the mind and body that originated in India.

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MMI students take 10-day educational European tour Thirteen MMI students and two faculty members recently completed a 10-day educational European tour of Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The group learned about the culture, history, geography and people of each region and sampled traditional European meals.

Seniors William Bower, Samanta Cottone, Brian Galbiati and Sarah Moyer; juniors Ali Aijaz, Niklas Byriel, Garrett Kost, Anna Olivieri, Keenan Overa, Dylan Slusser and Jacob Weiksner and sophomores Nicolo Cottone and Joseph Taylor attended the trip. T.R. Laputka and Gabriela Moustardas were the faculty advisers. The trip was planned in conjunction with educational tour company EF Education Tours.

The MMI group departed from John F. Kennedy Airport in New York City on March 19. They arrived in Vienna the next day and were met by the local tour director who accompanied them throughout the 10-day trip. The guide shared historical and cultural information and insights about the sites, places and people during the trip.

A walking tour explored the center of Vienna and a bus tour the next day added a broader picture which included a tour of Schönbrunn Palace. Following two days in Austria’s capital, the group headed west to Salzburg, with a stop at the famous Benedictine Monastery of Melk. Salzburg’s picturesque old city was made famous by the musical The Sound of Music as well as for being Mozart’s birth place. After strolling through the old town, the students traveled by funicular railway to the Stronghold Hohensalzburg above the city, where they learned about its history and appreciated the panoramic view.

The trip continued to Munich. A very informative bus tour of the city, with a stop to watch surfers on the Eisbach, brought the group to Nymphenburg Palace and ended at the Opera House.

From there, the group explored the city center on foot. The morning program included watching the Glockenspiel at the Marienplatz and a quick lunch by the Viktualienmark. The afternoon was spent visiting the concentration camp of Dachau outside of the city.

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From Munich, the group traveled to Neuschwanstein castle. The dramatic Alpine landscape with its snow-capped mountains provided a spectacular backdrop for this well-known home built

MMI students and faculty advisers pose in front of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria. Pictured are, first row, from left: Nicolo Cottone, Sarah Moyer, Samanta Cottone, Keenan Overa, Brian Galbiati, and MMI world language department chair Gabriela Moustardas. Second row: Anna Olivieri, Ali Aijaz, William Bower, Joseph Taylor, Dylan Slusser, Jacob Weiksner, Garrett Kost, Nicklas Byriel and MMI IT Director T.R. Laputka.

by Ludwig II of Bavaria.

Crossing the border into Austria again, the group entered the Tyrol region.

They spent the night at an inn on an Alpine slope above the city of Innsbruck with breathtaking views of the valley below and the mountain peaks to the north. The following day, after exploring and shopping in Innsbruck, the trip continued west to Liechtenstein, a tiny country of 62 square miles, with a stop in the capital city Vaduz. The bus wound its way up into the Swiss Alps surrounding Lake Lucerne to the village of Morschach, where the group would spend another night in a beautiful setting surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

On Easter Saturday, sunshine and warm temperatures accompanied the group into the city of Lucerne. The tour director led a walking tour from the Lion monument through old town and across the Speuer and Chapel bridges.

One student’s German grandfather met the group and took them all out for a traditional and delicious lunch.

A stop in the village of Brunnen provided the opportunity to tour the Victorinox Swiss army knife museum and store. Accompanied by the tour director and Gabriela Moustardas, some students walked from the hotel to the small village church of St. Gallus in Morschach to attend Easter Mass. The church dates from the 14th century.

The following day, the group traveled north into Germany. On the way they made stops at the Rheinfalls

by Schaffhausen and at the Titisee in the Black Forest. The group visited Heidelberg Castle, where they saw the famous giant wine barrel housed in one

of the buildings and took in a view of the city below. A walk down into the city led to a historic restaurant where they ate an authentic German meal.

The students and teachers departed from Frankfurt on March 28 to return home. Gabriela Moustardas said, “For most students this had been the first time they had traveled to Europe. It was a tremendously enriching experience – not only academically, but also personally.

The bonds and memories made, things learned, places seen and food tasted will not soon be forgotten.”

An Unforgettable Experience

By Garrett Kost, MMI junior At MMI, we pride ourselves with practical and useful knowledge through application both in the classroom and in real life. But little do we actually get to test the latter.

For me, a student of the German language and culture for three years, the ability to try out my skills is limited to my class or those rare occasions where one can speak in German a little or barely at all.

In my opinion, one can study a language for many years, but until you use it in conversation with a native speaker, you could never even think of becoming fluent.

Finally, my chance came with this trip. While there, I could practice my skills and see how well I do.

To read Garrett’s entire blog entry on the trip, visit www.mmiprep.org/Blog/ an-unforgettable-experience-2.html.

Milestones

Events in the lives of the MMI Prep family

Weddings

Ray Tulanowski and Allison Tulanowski ‘09 married on August 9. Also pictured are, from left, Joshua Tulanowski, maid of honor Brianna Kramer ‘09, Jacquelyn Barry and Kayla Kelly.

Births Karen Petrosky-Blaum ’01 and her husband, James, welcomed a daughter, Kerry, on April 14, 2015.

Dr. Brian Coyle ’94 and his wife, Dr. Mackenzie Smith, welcomed Bridget Grace to the family on February 15.

They have two other children, Finn and Katie. The family resides in Milford, CT. Michael Cusat ‘99 and his wife, Courtney, welcomed a daughter, Rachael Toni, on March 13. She joins 15-month old brother Ryan. The family resides in Langhorne, PA. Bill Deaton ’92 and his wife, Nancy, welcomed son Walter Deaton on September 28.

Audrey Stepansky ‘15 gave birth to Ariana Jade Stepansky on May 24. Ariana is the granddaughter of MMI Director of Facilities Joe Stepansky and his wife, Janine.

Deaths MMI Honorary Board member, Lucetta Sharp Alderfer, passed away on March 10, 2016. She is survived by her two brothers, Edward M. Sharp ‘36 and James W. Sharp ‘42, two step-daughters, several nieces, grandnieces and grandnephews.

Mary Bierly passed away on February 5, 2016. She is survived by her husband, Karl Bierly ‘46, daughter, Mary A. Bierly, and son, Karl Jr. and his wife Elizabeth.

The Reverend Dr. John Michael Brndjar, past MMI Board member, died January 23, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and their son, Dr. Jon Erik Brndjar ‘83, daughter-in-law, Dana; grand-daughter, Alexa; and grandsons Daniel, Hunter and Anderson.

Gloria Lee Carter passed away on April 27, 2016. She is survived by her husband, Frederick Carter; two sons, Guy Zehner ‘79 and wife Natalie; and Wilson Zehner ‘81 and wife, Michele; six grandchildren; three stepchildren, Lanecia Saulnier and husband Gary; Frederick Carter, Jr. and wife, Kathy; and Katrina Kaminski and husband, Stan; and many step-grandchildren.

Robert R. Edmunds ‘56 passed away on May 28, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Janet; daughter, Gwyneth Mulligan, and husband John; son, Rhys Edmunds and wife, Susie, and granddaughter, Violet.

John T. Ferry passed away on May 20, 2016. He is survived by his children, John Ferry and wife MMI faculty member Lisa Ferry; Janine Kadelak and her husband Joseph; Kevin Ferry and wife, Rachel; and Joseph Ferry and wife, Karen, and fourteen grandchildren, including Caitlin Ferry ’10,

Amber Ferry ‘14, Hayle Shearer’14 and J.T. Ferry.

Past MMI Board member Robert K. Gicking passed away on March 15, 2016. He is survived by his sons, Jeffrey S. Gicking ‘75 and John M. Gicking ‘76 and husband, Fred Doss; his brother David S. Gicking ‘56; and nephews Robert and Paul Gicking.

Robert J. Honis Sr. passed away on June 3, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Veronica; son, Robert and wife, Judy; daughter and MMI faculty member Christine Lizbinski and husband, David; son, Joseph; and five grandchildren including Joshua and Kristyn Lizbinski ‘09.

Dr. Jerome Komisarof ‘51 passed away on February 12, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Leslie, and children Karen, Adam, Jeff and Justin.

Richard H. Kutz II passed away on November 20, 2015.

Surviving is his wife, Deborah; daughter, Laura McCartney ‘90 and her husband, Ross; and sons Dr. Richard Kutz III ‘93 and his wife, Dr. Kate Marciniszyn, and Donavon Kutz.

Leroy Michael Lenhart ‘58 passed away on May 1, 2016.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Lee, and stepdaughter, Shelly Seltzer and her husband, Brian.

Donald Markle III ‘61 passed away on May 20, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; son, Donald Markle IV and his wife, Colette; daughter, Megan Corey and her husband, David; and grandsons, Augusten Corey and Jude Markle Corey.

Anna “Lee” Moyer passed away on February 22, 2016. She is survived by her children, Carol Hilbert, Alan L. and wife, Loretta, David R. and wife, Bonnie, and Robert B. and wife, MMI faculty member Susan Moyer; and grandchildren, Paul, William and Sarah Moyer ‘16.

George Noga Sr passed away on May 27, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; sons, George Noga Jr and wife, Rose Marie, and Michael Noga and wife, Valerie; and four grandchildren including Rebecca Noga ‘14.

Charles J. Rollman passed away January 30, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Catherine; children CarolLee, Charles Rollman and wife, Lauren, Mike Rollman and wife, Lori, and Catherine DeRemer and husband, Tom; and eleven grandchildren, including Zachary T. DeRemer ‘22.

Elwood W. Schneider ‘49 passed away on January 7, 2016.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Stewart, and three children, Craig Schneider, Jo Ann Gollan and Lori Patch.

He is also survived by five grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.

Lucille M. Shiner passed away on June 15, 2016. She is survived by her sons, past MMI Board member Andrew Shiner and wife, Donna, and Mark and wife, Sharon; daughters, Mary Ann Antonelli and husband, James, and Lisa Bittenbender and husband, Jeff; and eight grandchildren.

Carmen N. Stigliano ‘45 passed away March 28, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Lilia; sons Martin and Henry; and grandchildren Augustin, Valentina, Mora, Mateo and Amy. Craig L. Wallen passed away on March 9, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth “Betsey” Wallen; two sons, Karl Wallen ‘87 and companion, Robynn Smith, and Peter Wallen ‘89 and his fiancée Dawn Freit; and two grandsons, Craig James Wallen ‘15 and Cody Peter Wallen.

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Alumni Notes

What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe Rebecca Garvin ’05 visited MMI on April 28 as a guest speaker and spent time with MMI’s 10th, 11th and 12th grade students. Garvin works as an economist for the Bureau of Labor Statistics and her presentation to the students was primarily about employment projections for the future and the value of the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH). The OOH can help students find career information on duties, education and training, pay, and outlook for hundreds of occupations. College Admissions Counselor Stephanie Shandra uses the OOH tool as part of MMI’s college counseling curriculum, and it is also linked with the college and career planning software that MMI uses called Naviance.

Michael Casari ‘08 was hired as an associate attorney at Olexa Law Offices, Ltd. in Hazleton. He is focusing his practice on civil litigation including, but not limited to, family law, employment/labor law, personal injury, elder law and real estate transactions.

Sarah Kashubski Czypinski ‘06 graduated cum laude and in the Order of the Coif with a Juris Doctorate on May 8 from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. She was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar and was sworn in by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Correale Stevens on Oct. 26, 2015. Czypinski is currently an associate attorney at K&L Gates, LLP. She was a Schreyer Honors Scholar at Penn State, University Park, where she received her Bachelor’s of Arts degree in political science, German and international politics in 2010. Czypinski then went on to earn her Masters of Arts in political science at the University of Pittsburgh in 2013.

On November 16, 2015, Attorney Lee Ann Palubinsky ‘02 and Attorney Laura Bonin Walters ‘02 were admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States in Washington, DC. After the admission ceremony, they had the honor of meeting with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

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John Joseph Gera Jr. ‘12 graduated magna cum laude from Saint Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, on May 14.

He earned Bachelor of Science degrees in both finance and sports marketing. He is a member of Betta Gamma Sigma, an international honor society that recognizes business students attending AACSB accredited universities in the top 10 percent of their class. He is a financial adviser for Karr Barth Associates Inc., Bala Cynwd, a division of AXA,

a worldwide financial firm with its headquarters in Paris, France.

Megan Elizabeth Kost ‘12 graduated from West Chester University. Kost received a bachelor’s degree in both special education and early childhood education and graduated summa cum laude. This summer, Kost will travel to Galway, Ireland, to complete the first course necessary to obtain a certificate in autism spectrum disorders.

The Magicicada Festival was held Memorial Day weekend to honor the 17-year emergence of the cicada at the West Virginia University Arboretum, a 90-acre expanse of forest nestled along the banks of the Monongahela River. At the festival, Kristyn Lizbinski ‘09, a PhD student studying the cicada brain as part of her thesis project, handed out cicada carcasses to people to show them the differences —one is larger than the other, another possesses a distinct orange pattern. As for her own cicada research, this historic batch of cicadas will be gone by July and won’t return until Lizbinski is in her 40s. “I will be sad to see them go. We’re kind of flying by the seat of our pants collecting them. And if a technique doesn’t work, we’re out of luck because we can’t wait another month to do it.” At WVU, her project fits right at home alongside that of a professor in the biology department who trains moths to sniff out bombs at airports. “If you told me when I was 15 that I’d be getting a PhD in insect neurobiology, I probably would’ve laughed.”

She pauses, and then adds, “I’m afraid of spiders, so it’s kind of ironic.”

Mrs. Titus’ senior AP Literature class welcomed Dr. Richard Fischbein for a lecture on OCD, how the brain processes chemicals in conditions like bi-polarism, borderline personality disorder and depression. Dr. Feischbein is the father of Emily (Fischbein) Piazza ‘03 and is a forensic psychologist who is often called upon as an expert witness to testify in court cases involving mental or emotional issues.

Samuel J. Scalleat ‘12 was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Vermont at the university’s May commencement ceremony. While at the university, Scalleat was a member of the dean’s list and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and has also completed his EIT certification. He has accepted a position as a project engineer with Joseph B. Fay Co. in Maryland.

Alumni Notes (cont.)

What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe Leo Ravina ’45 and his wife, Cecilia, celebrated their 60th anniversary on May 26. The couple has four children and six grandchildren and celebrated their 60th with a dinner at Leonard’s Restaurant.

Former Montour County District Attorney Rebecca L. Warren ‘84 joined the law firm of Obermayer Rebmann Maxwell & Hippel, LLP as a partner in the firm’s Litigation Department.

She will concentrate her practice primarily in the areas of white collar crime and civil litigation, internal investigations, business compliance, government investigations and the legal aspects of crisis management, and will reside in the firm’s Harrisburg office. Obermayer, a full service regional law firm with 110 attorneys, is

headquartered in Philadelphia with offices in Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, Conshohocken and Altoona; Cherry Hill, New Jersey; Wilmington, Delaware and New York. Atty. Warren is a current member of MMI’s Board of Directors and is also the mother of Grant Warren ’20.

Tanya Yenkevich Olander ‘86 is currently working as a Laboratory Technologist in the Microbiology Department at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Olander has also recently accepted an adjunct faculty position in the Medical Technology program at Old Dominion University.

She lives in Virginia Beach with her husband of 25 years, Geoffrey, a retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel, and their three children, Zachary, 20; Jacob, 17; and Sarah, 14.

Alumni say goodbye to Clarke, Hood at three mini-reunions The 2016 alumni minireunions were a huge hit!

Retiring faculty member Señor Dennis Clarke accompanied Head of School Tom Hood and Director of Advancement Kim McNulty to three great events!

The Washington DC Alumni Mini-Reunion was held on March 31 at Old Ebbitt Grill with 15 alumni raising a glass.

The New York City Alumni Mini-Reunion was held on April 26 at Houndstooth Pub, also with 15 alumni and friends in attendance. The Philadelphia Alumni MiniReunion was held on May 5 at Tir Na Nog with a large crowd of 31 people. A great time was had by all!

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Memorials

Library Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between February 1 and June 15, 2016 In Memory of Daniel Ackers Dr. John Della Croce ‘73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Lucetta Sharp Alderfer Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Dr. William Shergalis ‘58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In Honor of Joseph R. Beltrami and deceased members of the Beltrami Family Mr. and Mrs. John Beltrami In Honor of Rachael Betz ‘22 Mr. and Mrs. Philip Houm In Honor of Jayden Bonham ‘22 Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Kuzmitsky In Memory of John S. Boris ‘32 Ms. Carole A. O’Connor Mrs. Helen M. Vercusky In Memory of Kathryn and Walter Brinker Mr. James M. Stradnick ‘77 In Honor of Lucy Butkiewicz ‘22 Colonel Edward J. Butkiewicz In Memory of Rose Carsia Dr. John Della Croce ‘73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Gloria (Zehner) (Smith) Carter Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Brown, Jr. Mr. Robert L. Fryer Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Ms. Lisa Pucillo Mr. and Mrs. Joseph G. Rudawski Mr. and Mrs. Ronald H. Stern Mr. Wilson Zehner ‘81 and Mrs. Michele Zehner In Memory of Ambabai and Mahadev Chikarmane Ms. Ambika A. Chikarmane ‘03

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In Honor of Dennis Clarke Dr. and Mrs. Gus Alfano Mrs. Gail E. Blasko Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Boyle Ms. Doris Brady Mr. and Mrs. Richard Burns The Carrato Family The Dei Tos Family Mr. and Mrs. Daniel DeMelfi Mr. and Mrs. William J. Flood Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Gabrielle Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Gallagher Ms. Linda Garber and Mr. Bob Supowit Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Green

Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens Mr. Thomas Hanlon Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Jastremsky Dr. and Mrs. Robert Kupsho Mr. and Dr. Joseph Maduro Mr. James Makuch ‘60 and Mrs. Marylin Makuch Mr. and Mrs. John Matosky Mr. Edward C. McNelis ‘10 Mr. and Mrs. Timothy McNulty Mr. Frank Molinaro and Mrs. Gwenann Molinaro Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Nardone Mr. and Mrs. Howard Narrow Mr. and Mrs. Frank P. Orlando Mr. John Pinto Dr. and Mrs. Edward S. Polashenski Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Rakauskas Mr. and Mrs. Michael Scarlato Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer Dr. William Shergalis ‘58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis Mr. Jonathan Smith and Mrs. Beatrice Russo-Smith Mr. and Mrs. Johnny M. Smith Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Spencer Ms. Barbara Warman Atty. Philip Yoon ‘96 In Memory of Constance “Connie” Cochran Mr. Gregory C. Scarlato In Honor of Ayla Cooper ‘20 Ms. Mary Biscontini In Honor of Tyra Cooper ‘22 Ms. Mary Biscontini In Memory of Crystal Craig Senape & Associates In Memory of Colonel Stanley D’Amore The Dei Tos Family In Honor of Andrew Decker ‘19 Mr. and Mrs. David Decker In Memory of Nicholas Delaney Mr. and Mrs. Dennis P. Clarke In Honor of Charles Dick ‘21 Mr. and Mrs. Richard G. Morris In Memory of Peter Donish ProFund Advisors LLC In Honor of Aine Durako ‘18 Mr. and Mrs. Andrew B. Durako Sr. In Memory of John Ferry Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Mr. Brian Lucas ‘84 and Mrs. Kathy Lucas

In Memory of John Gabuzda ‘77 Reverend Richard J. Gabuzda ‘73 In Memory of Eugene Gallagher Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Gallagher In Memory of Thomas Gallagher Dr. John Della Croce ‘73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Irene Gans Senape & Associates In Memory of Linda Gicking Mr. Craig Harris and Dr. Audrey Wagner ‘76 Mr. William Spear ‘79 and Mrs. Marylynne Spear Mr. Lawrence Walko and Mrs. Debbie Walko ‘79 Mr. Robert Conahan and Mrs. Cindy Brenner Conahan ‘76 In Memory of Robert Gicking Mr. and Mrs. William J. Flood Mrs. Irene Giuliani Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Mr. Brian Lucas ‘84 and Mrs. Kathy Lucas Dr. William Shergalis ‘58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis Mr. William Spear ‘79 and Mrs. Marylynne Spear In Memory of Scott Graham ‘84 Mr. Rusty Cassway and Mrs. Karen Cassway ‘84 In Honor of Ryan Halterman ‘20 Mr. and Mrs. Gary W. Halterman Sr. In Memory of Barry Haupt Dr. William Shergalis ‘58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In Memory of Robert J. Honis Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood In Honor of Thomas and Mary-Lee Hood Mr. and Mrs. John Beltrami Mr. Joseph Berger ‘58 and Mrs. Barbara Berger Mr. David Bogansky Ms. Julia Byriel The Carrato Family Mr. and Mrs. Dennis P. Clarke Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ‘71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos Mr. and Mrs. Daniel DeMelfi Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Dougherty and Mrs. Donna Barna Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Eisenhart and Michael Eisenthart ‘15 Mr. and Mrs. William J. Flood

Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Gabrielle Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Gallagher Ms. Linda Garber and Mrs. Bob Supowit Mr. Jeffrey S. Gicking ‘75 Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Green Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens Mr. John Hollis ‘64 and Mrs. Carol Hollis Mr. and Mrs. Jack Jastremsky Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Jastremsky Mr. Robert Klotz ‘58 and Mrs. Carol Klotz Dr. and Mrs. Robert Kupsho Mr. Edward Lesny ‘58 and Mrs. Susanne Lesny Mr. and Dr. Joseph Maduro Mr. James Makuch ‘60 and Mrs. Marylin Makuch Mr. Richard Malavenda Mr. and Mrs. Bruce McClellan Mr. Edward C. McNelis ‘10 Mr. and Mrs. Timothy McNulty Ms. Frances M. McSpedon Mr. Frank Molinaro and Mrs. Gwenann Molinaro Mr. and Mrs. Howard Narrow Dr. Juliana Obi-Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Robert Parmegiani Mr. John Pinto Mr. Dan Ravina Mr. and Mrs. Michael Scarlato Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer Dr. William Shergalis ‘58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis Mr. Jonathan Smith and Mrs. Beatrice Russo-Smith Mr. and Mrs. Johnny M. Smith Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Spencer Mr. Robert Thayer, Ms. Mary Foltz and Nathan Thayer ‘22 Mrs. Lillian, Ms. Lia ‘01 and Mr. Paul Urenovich Jr. ‘04 Mr. Stanley Warner ‘56 and Mrs. Joan Warner In Memory of Helene Kaufer Senape & Associates In Memory of George J. Kostick, Jr. ‘64 Mrs. Ceil Kostick In Memory of Leroy Lenhart ‘58 Mr. Edward Lesny ‘58 and Mrs. Susanne Lesny Mr. Mark Levine ‘58 and Mrs. Millie Levine Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Peal Dr. William Shergalis ‘58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis

In Memory of Donald Markle III ‘61 Dr. William Shergalis ‘58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In Honor of Jessica McClellan ‘19 Ms. Leone McClellan In Honor of Allison McGeehan ‘17 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McGeehan In Honor of Kaitlyn McGeehan ‘19 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McGeehan In Honor of Dillon Merenich ‘17 Mr. and Mrs. George Merenich In Honor of Heaven Merenich ‘19 Mr. and Mrs. George Merenich

In Honor of Dylan Slusser ‘17 Mr. and Mrs. Jack St. Pierre In Honor of Logan Slusser ‘22 Mr. and Mrs. Jack St. Pierre In Honor of Jackie Snyder ‘21 Mr. and Mrs. Norman Thinschmidt In Honor of Julia Snyder ‘18 Mr. and Mrs. Norman Thinschmidt In Honor of Jay Solgama ‘16 Mr. Chunilal Solgama Dr. and Mrs. Paresh Solgama

In Honor of Michael Merenich ‘15 Mr. and Mrs. George Merenich

In Honor of Althea Stewart ‘22 Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bowman Mr. and Mrs. Norman Thinschmidt

In Honor of Amelia Minzola ‘22 Mrs. Michaeline Starruick

In Honor of Ethan Stine ‘21 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lobb

In Honor of Olivia Minzola ‘17 Mrs. Michaeline Starruick

In Honor of Alyssa Sweda ‘19 Mrs. Marie Feissner Perry

In Memory of Anna Moyer Mr. and Mrs. Dennis P. Clarke Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood

In Memory of James Uston Dr. Feelgoode’s

In Honor of Molly O’Connell ‘20 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Perrin In Honor of Violet O’Connell ‘21 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Perrin In Honor of Maria Olson ‘21 Mr. and Mrs. Jack Blair In Honor of Keenan Overa ‘17 Mr. and Mrs. Leonard E. Sabol In Memory of Beverley Pantages The Dei Tos Family In Honor of Brian Payne ‘19 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Chuckra In Memory of Angelo Porreca Dr. John Della Croce ‘73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Eleanor Puhak Senape & Associates In Honor of Cole Rinehimer ‘21 Ms. Joan Rinehimer

In Memory of Mary “Granny” Kluskiewicz Gina Galada ‘22 and the Donadi Family

In Honor of Atty. James V. Senape Jr.’s 50th year in the legal profession Ms. Catherine A. McGovern

In Honor of Morgan Long ‘19 Mr. and Mrs. Arthur H. Long

In Memory of Ruth Shershan Dr. John Della Croce ‘73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In Honor of Noah Long ‘21 Mr. and Mrs. Arthur H. Long

In Honor of Bailey Slusser ‘19 Mr. and Mrs. Jack St. Pierre

In Memory of Stanley E. Vercusky ‘26 Ms. Carole A. O’Connor Mrs. Helen M. Vercusky In Memory of David and Edith Wagner Mr. Craig Harris and Dr. Audrey Wagner ‘76 In Memory of Craig Wallen The Dei Tos Family Dr. John Della Croce ‘73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Mary Webb Dr. John Della Croce ‘73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Thea Socha Welsko Mr. Thomas E. Welsko ‘57 In Honor of Kyle Williams ‘17 Mr. and Mrs. George S. Williams In Honor of Kaylee Witner ‘22 Mr. and Mrs. William Van Horn In Memory of Joseph Yamona Committee of Hazleton High School Madelene Scarlato, Ann Bindus, Jeanie Chirico In Honor of the retirement of Dr. Myung Sun Yoon Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Peal Mr. and Mrs. Sam Schaeffer In Honor of Macy Zeinier ‘20 Mr. and Mrs. Tedd Zenier Sr.

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NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID WILKES-BARRE, PA PERMIT#188

MMI Preparatory School 154 Centre Street Freeland, PA 18224 Address Service R equested

Prom 2016

MMI Preparatory School students were dressed in their finest for the prom, which was held May 12 at Sand Springs.

Homecoming Weekend Important Dates September 16 and 17, 2016

This year’s festivities will honor the reunion classes of 1936, 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011.

See page 14 for more details.

New Student Orientation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

First Day of School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Back to School Wine and Cheese. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Freshmen Orientation and Pajama Parade . . . . . . . .

Meet the Teacher Night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Parent-Faculty Organization Bingo. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

August 22 August 23 August 24 September 9 September 13 October 2