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MMI celebrates the Class of 2021

we can look back on what we have learned together. I would like MMI celebrated the Class of 2021 during its 129th to thank all our teachers, not just for teaching their subject, but Commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 27. Seniors received for going above and beyond to help us grow as people. With their their diplomas from MMI Head of School Justin Kleinheider and help, we have Board of Directors Chair learned to work Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III both independently ’82. and cooperatively. This year’s graduating Most importantly, class of 40 seniors were I hope we have all accepted at 80 percent of learned that the most the colleges they applied important thing in to and amassed more the world is people. than $8.1 million in The connections merit scholarships and between you and awards. others matters more The ceremony than any house or was held in the MMI any job. The future Gymnasium and was may be uncertain, available via a live but we all get to be stream on MMI’s website part of it.” for anyone to watch. Salutatorian MMI Head of School Katherine Taylor Justin Kleinheider said, Lewandowski “The Class of 2021 set a remarked, “When great example for every I first learned I student at MMI, with would be giving this smiles under their masks, speech, one piece of focused determination to advice I was given learn and succeed, and was to talk about most importantly having something I could fun.” share that I had Todd Alan Schell ’80, learned from my Senior Project Manager time here. Of course, at Ivanti, delivered there are the skills the Founder’s Day that we gained, such Address. Schell has had as being able to give a successful career in a speech like this cybersecurity and shared MMI Class of 2021 or even balancing several experiences my commitments, that helped shape his but I think the true lesson that I learned was to live in the moment career and he hopes will also be beneficial for this year’s class. The and make the most of the time that is right in front of us. I realized, fundamental theme of his message was to “surround yourself with especially this last year, that while I was so focused on the exciting good people, take the lead towards your goals, and success is almost things the future had to offer, I would sometimes forget how much sure to follow”. I had to be happy about that was right in front of me. So, take the During commencement exercises, valedictorian Louis Paul DeAngelo said, “Now that our time at MMI is coming to a close, (continued on page 5)

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From the Head of School Dear MMI Family & Friends, As we begin to turn a corner on a life-altering event, what I remember are not the trials of the pandemic but the teamwork. The times when the community came together to accomplish something special. We did that throughout the year start to finish, top to bottom. Nothing new at MMI but life affirming, and in a world where many schools were virtual all year…life changing. In July and August, the administrative team carefully planned for a return to school. We could draw up a million different plans and scenarios with air scrubbers and webcams galore. A faculty and staff had to take that plan and shape it into reality. Answering a special call, our teachers worked tirelessly to make two distinct classrooms simultaneously. Every in-person class was livestreamed. Every teacher created lessons that were flexible for both worlds, made students feel welcome into two places, and most importantly, brought them together. Grit, determination, and teamwork were on display for students each and every day. I know it made everyone stronger. In the winter, when conditions worsened we stayed open because our community was aware of the stakes and committed to the outcome, especially our parents. In the height of the pandemic we guided our students together with our families. Our protocols and livestreaming preparations were meaningless unless we believed in each other. Every morning, while taking temperatures of our faculty and staff as well as helping with the phones, parents were calling in to keep students home who were not feeling well. Our parents were not only protecting their children but protecting others. Caring about each other was never more important. The goal was shared and that helped us finish the year without a closure due to an outbreak. We only paused during the holidays for online learning as we prepared for another semester. As spring returned, there were small but important signs of a return to normalcy. The leadership of our seniors, first and foremost, was important all year as they set the example. However, in April they staged an impromptu barbecue in the Courtyard that many called a prank, but I would call a signal. The underclassman watched seniors join together in a meal outside as a reminder of the importance of communication and community. You could hear the cheers from the windows above as seniors played games and ate burgers. It was a special MMI moment. After a lost season in 2020, our baseball coach, Ryan Jastremsky, with his coaching staff and senior leaders, inspired not just great play but camaraderie. They were a team that was pushing each other to stay focused on the field, in the dugout, and most importantly in school. Our baseball team made it all the way to the state championship quarterfinal and won a district championship, a historic and amazing season that will not soon be forgotten. However, what made the season special is that every single player was a true student athlete. Leading MMI through these unprecedented times has been an incredibly rewarding challenge; taking part in the many friendships and bonds created at MMI, deepened over the last year and assured to endure a lifetime. I want to thank our friends who reached out and helped by providing tremendous support and encouragement. Our community here has thrived as a result, and we are grateful.

Justin Kleinheider Head of School

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

Justin Kleinheider 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

Twenty-two MMI students place first and second at Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science regionals Twenty-two MMI students received First and Second Awards during the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) regional competition earlier this month and 12 of them moved on to represent MMI at the virtual state competition in May. Olivia Bartholomew, Lindsay Horvat, Amelia Minzola, and Jessica Zheng received a perfect score. Additional First Award winners were: Rachael Betz, Louis DeAngelo, Brenna Eckhart, Jillian McGeehin, Nathaniel Neidlinger, Dustin Paul, Grace Warner, and Darren Zheng. MMI’s Second Award winners were: Viva Barrett, Annabel Dobash, Christian Homnack, Ashley Loss, Kate Malay, Thomas Mayernik, Manal Muhammad, Abigail Sparich, Connor Spencer, and Morgan Strecker. MMI competes in Region 2 with students from schools throughout Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wyoming, Susquehanna, Wayne, Pike, and Monroe counties. MMI instructors Amanda Shonk, Melissa McHale, Michael Mele, Justin Vincent, and Susan Moyer served as advisors for the competition. The PJAS competition is open to students in grades 7-12. During the PJAS regional competition, students conduct a scientific research project in one of the 12 Scientific Categories of Research identified by PJAS and then orally present that research to a team of judges. The categories are: Behavioral Psychology, Biology, Biochemistry, Botany, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth and Space, Ecology, Engineering, Mathematics, Microbiology, Physics, and Zoology.

Twenty-two MMI students received First and Second Awards during the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science regional competition. Pictured are, first row, from left: Rachael Betz, Annabel Dobash, Abigail Sparich, and Olivia Bartholomew. Second row: Jessica Zheng, Jillian McGeehin, Grace Warner, and Morgan Strecker. Third row: Ashley Loss, Amelia Minzola, Lindsay Horvat, Brenna Eckhart, and Manal Muhammad. Fourth row: Thomas Mayernik, Dustin Paul, Connor Spencer, and Christian Homnack. Fifth row: Darren Zheng, Louis DeAngelo, and PJAS Advisor Amanda Shonk. Sixth row: PJAS Advisors Melissa McHale, Michael Mele, Justin Vincent, and Susan Moyer. Absent from photo are: Nathaniel Neidlinger, Viva Barrett, and Kate Malay.

MMI holds virtual Upper School Awards Convocation MMI recognized students in ninth through 11th grades during a virtual Upper School Awards Convocation. Seniors were honored at the graduation ceremony. Gina Galada, Keiran Mele, Katelyn Overa, and Dustin Paul each received the 2021 Wilkes University Colonel Emerging Leader Award, which is given to high school juniors who demonstrate academic potential. Selected students are guaranteed a minimum of $10,000 per year if they are admitted and enroll at Wilkes University in the fall semester immediately following their high school graduation. MMI honored several ninth through eleventh grade students with 2021 Subject Awards, which are given to students who show outstanding contribution, achievement, and dedication to an individual subject. Winners are:

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Head of School Justin Kleinheider, center, honored Katherine Lewandowski, left, and Natalie Graham for their performance in the Voice of Democracy Audio Essay Competition.

The Class of 2021 Morgan Lindsey Allen, daughter of Brian and Allyne Allen of Freeland, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania – Art Education.

Natalie Marie Graham, daughter of Ryan and Heidi Graham of Tamaqua, Purdue University – Biomedical Engineering.

Hiba Muhammad, daughter of Ikram and Alia Muhammad of Mountain Top, The University of Scranton – Biology with a pre-medical concentration.

Irene Helen Altmiller, daughter of Charles Altmiller and Mary-Lynn McBride of Drums, The Pennsylvania State University – Psychology.

Aaron John Haber, son of John and Cathryn Haber of Tresckow, Drexel University – Game Design and Production.

Violet May O’Connell, daughter of Michael and Genevieve O’Connell of Coaldale, Temple University – Undecided.

Julie Ann Amentler, daughter of John and Kristine Amentler of Hazle Township, Saint Joseph’s University – Undecided with a pre-medical concentration.

Morgan Elizabeth Hosier, daughter of Barry D. and Marcianna Hosier of West Pittston, Thomas Jefferson University – 3+2 B.S. Health Science and M.S. Medical Laboratory Science program.

Robert Joseph Rinaldi, son of Robert and Catherine Rinaldi of Sugarloaf, The University of Pittsburgh – Biology with guaranteed admission for Dental Medicine.

Kimberly Marie Amentler, daughter of John and Kristine Amentler of Hazle Township, Saint Joseph’s University – Undecided with a pre-medical concentration.

James Albert Kelly, son of James and Chris Kelly of Mountain Top, The University of Pittsburgh – Biology with a pre-medical concentration.

Cole Lewis Rinehimer, son of Albert and Patricia Rinehimer of Pocono Pines, The Pennsylvania State University – Aerospace Engineering.

Kyle Hojun Kim, son of San and Jenny Kim of Jim Thorpe, The Rochester Institute of Technology – 4+1 MBA Combined Accelerated Pathway Program in Management Information Systems.

Emily May Ryan, daughter of Sam and Susan Ryan of White Haven, Queen’s University – Engineering.

Thomas Anthony Ansilio, son of Thomas and Roselle Ansilio of Pocono Lake, The University of Miami – Entrepreneurship. Christian Robert Badamo, son of Anthony and Jessica Badamo of Sugarloaf, The George Washington University – Business with a concentration in business economics and public policy and a minor in Spanish. Hunter Sebastian Blasko, son of Mark and Susan Blasko of White Haven, Saint Francis University – Environmental Engineering & Army ROTC. Lindsay Braunstein, daughter of Larry and Kimberly Braunstein of Mountain Top, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania – Undecided. Alexis Marie Dalesandro, daughter of Dustan Dalesandro and Kimberly Mumaw of Drums, Wilkes University – Neuroscience with a pre-medical concentration. Marcus Daniel Danchision, son of Daniel and Wendy Danchision of Ringtown, Lehigh University – Computer Science. Louis Paul DeAngelo, son of Grete and Aaron Floryshak of Sugarloaf and Louis DeAngelo of Hazle Township, The Pennsylvania State University Schreyer Honors College – Engineering. Hannah Marie Falatko, daughter of Robert and Christine Falatko of Freeland, Lehigh University – Undecided with a pre-law concentration.

McKenna E. Gallagher, daughter of Shawn and Jennifer Gallagher of Drums, The University of Pittsburgh – Bioengineering.

Dominique G. Kline, daughter of John and June Kline of Mountain Top, The University of Pittsburgh – Biology. Sydney Marie Kohl, daughter of Peter and Jina Kohl of Mountain Top, The Pennsylvania State University – Accounting.

Juliana Rose Salio, daughter of Tracy and Joseph Kress of Sugarloaf and Sylvester Salio of Swoyersville, Nova Southeastern University – Undecided with a pre-law concentration. Jacqueline Rose Snyder, daughter of Christopher and Jill Snyder of Sugarloaf, Boston University – Undecided.

Jordan Nathaniel Kulsa, son of Jeffrey and Alvita Kulsa of Hazle Township, Flagler College – Political Science.

Zander Dominick Lockwood Spear, son of William and Marylynne Spear of Hazleton, Duquesne University – Health Sciences.

Gregory Francis Leonard, son of Gregory and Karen Leonard of Hazle Township, Wilkes University – Nursing.

Ethan Thomas Stine, son of Jeffrey and Tracy Stine of Mountain Top, Lehigh University – Computer Science.

Katherine Taylor Lewandowski, daughter of James and Nancy Lewandowski of Mountain Top, The Pennsylvania State University Schreyer Honors College – Business Administration in the Sapphire Leadership Academic Program.

Millie Ann Symbula, daughter of Jill Symbula of Drums, Wilkes University – Guaranteed BS/Pharm.D. Program.

Noah William Long, son of David and Theresa Long of Mountain Top, Bucknell University – Political Science with pre-law concentration. Ryan Patrick McNelis, son of Edward and Florence McNelis of Conyngham, The University of Scranton – Business Analytics with a pre-law concentration. Kevin Kenneth McNulty, son of Timothy and Kimberly McNulty of Forty Fort, The Rochester Institute of Technology – Game Design and Development.

Peter Thomas Walko, son of Lawrence Walko and Debbie Brenner-Walko of Drums, The University of Akron – Sports Studies with a concentration in Athletic Coaching Education. Colin Michael Williams, son of Richard and Shannon Williams of Mountain Top, Dickinson College – International Business. Alexandra Young, daughter of Christian and Nicole Young of Freeland, The Pennsylvania State University – Undecided. Darren Zheng, son of Hongzhi and De Zheng of Jim Thorpe, The University of Pennsylvania – Pure Mathematics and Physics with a concentration in Chemical Principles.

Commencement (continued from page 1)

DeAngelo was honored time to live in the with the Joseph moment and find joy A. Chaykowski ’48 in even the smallest of Memorial Prize for things.” Mathematics and Class President Science, Darren Zheng Colin Michael Williams received the Faculty stated, “The graduates Award, and Christian that sit before you are Badamo was the some of the most wellrecipient of the Freeland rounded, hardworking, Rotary Club Rotary and dedicated Service Above Self individuals I have ever Award. had the pleasure of The Joseph A. meeting. During our Chaykowski ’48 time at MMI, we have Memorial Prize for achieved countless Mathematics and numbers of awards Guest Speaker Todd Alan Schell ’80 Science is awarded to a in the classroom, member of the class who academic competitions, has the highest combined average grade and our respective sports. This upcoming point average in math and science fall, members of the Class of 2021 will throughout their four-year upper school attend prestigious universities including experience. Ivy Leagues, Honor Colleges, and many more. The classes’ determination to do The award is named for a things in the most decisive and effective distinguished alumnus of MMI who way possible is a clear standout.” studied engineering at Penn State and was an outstanding professional Morgan Lindsey Allen, who designed engineer. The award was founded in the Class of 2021 banner, said, “The idea the memory of Joseph A. Chaykowski for the Class of 2021’s banner stemmed Salutatorian Katherine Lewandowski Valedictorian Louis DeAngelo by his daughter, Ms. Lisa Chaykowski from the senior class masking up to face Merlo ’80, a member of the MMI Board the challenges ahead of us. Throughout of Directors until her unexpected and the year, we have faced many setbacks, untimely passing. including staying close while being six feet apart. Yet the new struggles brought The Faculty Award is presented to by COVID-19 have not only caused the student who displays basic goodness individual growth, but also growth as an and honesty while being a good MMI community. Although the senior example for their peers in his or her class grows our own individual ways, own way. we still belong to the same MMI family The student is emotionally mature represented by the vines. But we couldn’t Class Banner Designer Morgan Allen Class President Colin Williams and treats others with empathy, grow without help. compassion, and The faculty, staff, concern. The entire and our mentors faculty selects the can be seen as the recipient from a butterflies helping us number of worthy along our journey. candidates. Without them our The Freeland growth wouldn’t be Rotary Club Rotary as significant which Service Above Self is why I honored Award recognizes them in our banner. and acknowledges a Although our class young person who will forever be by his or her actions known as the class has personified the that fought through Rotary motto of COVID-19, I believe “Service Above Self” we should also be in their school and known for our growth community. and resilience through these tough times.” During the ceremony, Louis The Class of 2021 tosses their caps at the end of the ceremony.

Michael Scarlato reflects on his love of coming to work every day as he announces his retirement For more than three decades, MMI has been a second home for Michael Scarlato who has taught American History to students from 7th through 12th grades. He said he had planned to continue teaching full time for several more years but a serious bout with COVID-19 over the last Christmas break made him reevaluate his life, and he announced that he was retiring at the end of the school year to spend a little more time with his family. “There wasn’t a single day that the alarm went off at 5:30 in the morning and I didn’t want to be here at MMI. I always thought I would teach until I was 70 years old because I just absolutely love what I was doing,” he said.

of MMI’s Summer Camp Program and Summer Concert Series. He organized and oversaw Act 48 Professional Development classes for the faculty at MMI taught by Wilkes faculty and was the advisor for the 8th grade, 11th grade, and 12th grade annual Stock Market competitions. “My philosophy of education is to approach teaching from a broad perspective which utilizes various learning devices,” Scarlato said. He often had guest speakers join him and took his students on field trips to enrich his classroom environment. “It was gratifying when I took the students to the Air and Space Museum, the White House, and to the Senate because I wanted them to experience these things since it was an extension of the classroom,” he said.

Michael Scarlato is retiring from MMI after more than In addition to being a teacher three decades as an American History instructor at the and class advisor, Scarlato advised school. Scarlato not only arranged for many clubs over the years guests in his classroom but also including the Prep Talk newspaper, organized all-school assemblies to allow for the entire MMI board games, video games, and the Interact Club which is community to benefit from the knowledge and expertise of his sponsored by Hazleton Rotary. He also served as a co-advisor to visitors. He arranged for speakers such as: U.S. Congressman Student Council. Louis J. Barletta, State Representative Gerald J. Mullery, former Talking about his experience with COVID-19, Scarlato said Deputy State Attorney General James M. Sysko, and Associate he became ill during the Christmas break and was told that Justice of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Correale F. it was probably only a cold. “I couldn’t believe it was COVID Stevens, who also co–taught the unit about Street Law as part because I had always taken every precaution possible. I started of MMI’s Consumer Education class. feeling worse, was tested, and then wound up in the hospital

having a real hard time breathing with a very low pulse oxygen level. I wasn’t improving and a nurse told me that she was very concerned. Several days later they got the drug Remdesivir and gave me six treatments before I started to turn the corner. I was in intensive care for 11 days and it took me weeks to gain back my strength at home,” he said. As advisor to Prep Talk, Scarlato supported the idea that MMI host the first Northeast Journalism Workshop/Conference. Then-editor Anthony Orlando ’06 directed the program that was open to the public. The workshop featured speakers from several television stations and newspapers, as well as university professors. Students from several area elementary and middle schools also participated in a short story contest as an extension of the workshop. Judges of the short story contest were President Emeritus Dr. William A. Shergalis ’58, King’s College Professor Jennifer Yonkoski, Standard Speaker Executive Editor Carl Christopher, and faculty from the Luzerne County Community College English Department. Prep Talk also had former Pennsylvania Governor Edward Rendell as a guest to speak to the MMI faculty and students on issues of state government and education.

Scarlato has been involved in a number of activities at MMI. He served as the Faculty and Facilities Manager for the MMI Girls Basketball program and was the initial developer

As a Consumer Education teacher, Scarlato organized class trips to the New York Stock Exchange, the New York Commodities Exchange, Garland Commercial Industries, Spaulding Commercial Bakeries, local commercial banks, and food market chains. His social studies classes ventured to South Street Seaport; the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum; Medieval Times Dinner Theater; the United Nations; the Pennsylvania State Capitol; National Historic Park sites in Philadelphia; the White House; the U.S. Capitol; the U.S. Senate; the U.S. Supreme Court; the F.B.I. Building; the National Museum of American History; the National Air and Space Museums; and numerous national monuments. Scarlato’s degrees include an Associate of Applied Science from Penn State University, a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in General Business from King’s College, a Master of Health Administration from Wilkes University, and his Secondary and Elementary Education Teacher Certifications. So, what is Scarlato going to do in retirement? “I am on the substitute teacher list here and may even drive a school van. I just can’t sit at home so I will find things to keep busy,” he said. “I just want to thank all of the people here at MMI for 31 wonderful years. MMI is one of the premiere educational institutions in the region and there are great teachers here. To get to do something that you love and get paid at the same time is amazing and I will never forget the experience.”

MMI alumni honor Anthony Cusat’s dedication to academics, athletics, and activities upon his retirement As is expected with the passage of time, many things have changed at MMI over the years. But one constant was the presence of Anthony Cusat in his mathematics classroom. Now, after nearly 50 years of teaching at MMI, Cusat has announced his retirement. Cusat earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from King’s College. He began teaching at MMI on September 1, 1972 and, at the time of his retirement, was MMI’s longesttenured faculty member. In addition to teaching math, Cusat also served as the Dean of Students for 19 years from 19872006. Not only did he share his knowledge and insight into mathematics with multiple generations of MMI students, he was also involved as an advisor or coach for numerous extracurricular activities and sports teams throughout his time at MMI. He was the advisor for various classes, as well as the Science Countdown team, Scholarship Bowl, Board Games Club, Hiking Club, Computer Science and Electronics Club, and Student Council. One of the students he impacted was John Slyconish ’95, who said, “Mr. Cusat was a committed and tireless teacher, coach, and dean who gave everything he possibly could to the students of MMI over his decades-long career. As a coach, he taught us about teamwork, perseverance, and respect for others. As a math teacher, he brought out the best in all of us. In fact, my one and only memory of my first day at MMI is him teaching us base conversion without cracking open the textbook. I was completely wowed.” Cusat had a long history as a head coach and assistant coach of multiple sports at MMI. He was the head coach of MMI’s varsity boys’ basketball team for 13 years (1990-2004) and was named Schuylkill League Coach of the Year during the 1989-1990 season. He was at the helm when the team played its first game in MMI’s current gymnasium on December 8, 2000, a 50-40 win over Faith Christian School. Upon the completion of his last season as boys’ head basketball coach in 2004, a quote was included in the Minamek that said Cusat would be “remembered best for his great attitude toward his players and his fiery personality come game time.” One of the most accomplished MMI athletes Cusat coached was Dr. Keith Brazzo ’90, who played basketball under Cusat for four years. Brazzo, a member of the MMI Wall of Fame for

Anthony Cusat watched the Preppers’ State Quarterfinal baseball game on June 10 with, from left, Joe Valkusky ’79 and Head of School Justin Kleinheider.

Anthony Cusat is retiring from MMI after a nearly 50-year career that included serving as an instructor, advisor, and athletic coach.

Athletic Achievement, scored a total of 1,570 points at MMI, placing him third on the school’s all-time scoring list. He was twice named to the All-State Class AAA team and was the Standard-Speaker Player of the Year in his senior year. “Words cannot express the gratitude I have for Mr. Cusat. I learned to enjoy calculus because of his engaging and captivating teaching style. I was probably over-prepared for college thanks to him,” Brazzo said. “He was also a tremendous basketball coach. His passion and knowledge of the game were always contagious. I have great memories of Mr. Cusat going with me on my first recruiting trip, hanging out with his family talking about basketball, and learning life lessons. If I had three adjectives to say about Mr. Cusat, I would say, energetic, motivational, caring, passionate, and selfless. So, I guess I have to say that three adjectives just don’t do him justice!” In addition to his work with the boys’ basketball team, Cusat was also instrumental in establishing the girls’ basketball program at MMI. He coached the inaugural season of girls’ basketball in 1990-1991, with the team playing at the midschool level. He later turned coaching at MMI into a family affair when he served as an assistant coach of the girls’ basketball team under his wife, Elaine Cusat. But he didn’t stop at coaching basketball. Cusat also coached cross-country and baseball and was the advisor for the Cross Country Club. Although mathematics is often thought of as a serious subject, Cusat found a way to bring some fun to the day, as he was known for re-arranging the furniture in his room all the time. Over the years, many lives have been touched by Anthony Cusat’s teaching, coaching, and advising. While some may find his retirement the end of an era, it is just the beginning of a lifetime of sharing stories and heartfelt gratitude for all he has done for the School and his students. All of us at MMI know he can look back at his time here and confidently say it was time well spent!

Upper School Awards (continued from page 3) Katherine Lewandowski (Eckley B. Coxe Jr, Memorial Subject Award for Science), Darren Zheng (Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Award for Mathematics), Hannah Falatko (Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Award for History, Chinese Language, and Visual Arts), Louis DeAngelo (Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Award for German Language), and Hiba Muhammad (Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Award for Spanish Language). Other award winners are: Jillian McGeehin (Susquehanna Valley Local Outstanding High School Chemistry Student Award), Grace Warner (George Eastman Kodak Young Leaders Award & Scholarship), Rachael Betz (Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award), Daniella Vasquez (Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award in Humanities and Social Sciences), Andrew Blasko (Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology), Connor Spencer (The Rensselaer Medal Award & Scholarship), Morgan Strecker (The Bryn Mawr President’s Book Award), Ashley Loss (Chatham MMI honored eleventh grade Subject Award winners during its Upper University Rachel Carson Healthy Planet Award), Jayden School Awards Convocation. Pictured are, first row, from left: MMI Academic Dean Justin Vincent, Alexandra Tierney, and Rachael Betz. Bonham (University of Pennsylvania Book Award), and Olivia Second row: Dustin Paul, Ashley Loss, and Connor Spencer. Absent from Bartholomew (Wellesley College Club Book Award). photo: Morgan Strecker. Several awards were given to multiple winners. Viva Barrett, Ninth Grade – Abigail Sparich (English and History), Thomas Mayernik, Amelia Minzola, Alexandra Tierney, and Nathaniel Neidlinger (Science and Chinese Language), Edgar Randy Zea all received The Russell Sage College Student Sage Lopez-Rodriguez (Math), Nathan Sissick (German Language), Dominic Raifsnider (Spanish Language), Emily Borchick (Visual Arts), and Sun Wang (Music Performance). Tenth Grade – Jessica Zheng (English and Math), Khristian Banks (Science and German Language), Annabel Dobash (History), Kasia Svendson (Chinese Language), Manal Muhammad (Spanish Language), Ty McDermott (Visual Arts), and Anden Karlick (Music Performance). Eleventh Grade – Rachael Betz (English, History, and Spanish Language), Ashley Loss (Science), Morgan Strecker (Math), Connor Spencer (Chinese Language), Dustin Paul (German Language), and Alexandra Tierney (Visual Arts). Twelfth Grade – Dominique Kline (Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Award for English),

MMI honored ninth grade Subject Award winners during its Upper School Awards Convocation. Pictured are, from left: MMI Academic Dean Justin Vincent, Nathan Sissick, Edgar Lopez-Rodriguez, Dominic Raifsnider, and Emily Borchick. Absent from photo: Abigail Sparich, Nathaniel Neidlinger, and Sun Wang.

Award. Sandra Abdulrahman and Lindsay Horvat both won the Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award. Kaylee Witner and Althea Stewart were recognized with the Elmira College Key Awards. Alain Benitez and Kennedy Tavaris both received the Rochester Institute of Technology Computing Medal.

MMI honored tenth grade Subject Award winners during its Upper School Awards Convocation. Pictured are first row, from left: Kasia Svendson, Annabel Dobash, Jessica Zheng, and Khristian Banks. Second row: MMI Academic Dean Justin Vincent, Ty McDermott, Manal Muhammad, and Anden Karlick.

2021 senior awards presented at the 129th Commencement Exercises were given to: Katherine Lewandowski and Natalie Graham (VFW Voices of Democracy Certificate of Merit and Monetary Award), Dominique Kline (2021 American Association of Teachers of German Award), Katherine Lewandowski (2021 Jake Kislan ’56 Polonaise Society Award), Kevin McNulty (2021 American Legion Good Citizenship Award and the Jeanne R. Butcher Memorial Scholarship Award), Louis DeAngelo (MMI Ambassador Service Award and the $2,000 per year Hazleton Rotary Memorial Scholarship), Darren Zheng ($1,250 per year Hazleton Rotary Memorial Scholarship Award).

MMI honors students for their athletic achievements during virtual 2020-2021 Athletic Awards ceremony MMI honored its student athletes at a virtual Athletic Awards ceremony.

Louis DeAngelo, Thomas Mayernik, Ethan Stine, and Peter Walko received varsity letters.

Seniors Robert Rinaldi and Dominique Kline received the District 2 Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) Scholar-Athlete Awards.

Marcus Danchision, Kevin McNulty, and Colin Williams all were awarded MVP honors for the Varsity Baseball team. The trio also received varsity letters along with Andrew Burns, David Castro, Chance Eyerly, James Kelly, Jacob Magula, Ty McDermott, Corrigan Nolasco, Robert Rinaldi, Cole Rinehimer, Connor Spencer, and Carson Valkusky.

MMI recognized numerous athletes with MVP, Most Improved, and Coach’s Award honors and varsity letters.

Kaylee Witner and Grace Warner were named Varsity Softball MVPs and Alexis Dalesandro received the Coach’s Award. All three earned varsity letters along with players Irene Altmiller, MMI Athletic Director Vincent Vella, center, presented the District 2 PIAA Gina Galada, McKenna Scholar-Athlete Awards to seniors Robert Rinaldi and Dominique Kline. Gallagher, Anna Hoxha, Annabel Dobash and Sydney Kohl, Ashley Loss, Eric “Woobie” Kupsky Amelia Minzola, Jacqueline earned Cross Country team MVP honors. Rachael Betz and Paul Snyder, Kennedy Tavaris, and Lucy van den Berg, and managers Neyhart were the Most Improved runners, and Morgan Hosier Olivia Bartholomew, Lindsay Horvat, and Katelyn Overa. and Connor Spencer received the Coach’s Award. Dobash, Emily Ryan and Eric “Woobie” Kupsky were honored for Kupsky, Hosier, Spencer, Paul Neyhart, Alex Neyhart, Khristian representing MMI in girls’ and boys’ swimming. Banks, Erica Kline, Kate Malay, Caden Pease, and Kasia Svendson received varsity letters. Thomas Mayernik was named Golf team MVP, and Noah Long and Peter Walko received the Coach’s Award. Mayernik, Long, Walko, Kade Lutz, and Lex Lispi received varsity letters.

Zander Spear was named Boys’ Tennis MVP, Christian Badamo was selected as Most Improved player, and Ryan McNelis received the Coach’s Award. Spear, Badamo, McNelis,

Above, MMI Athletic Director Vincent Vella, left, honored Golf team Coach’s Award winners Peter Walko, center, and Noah Long. At left, Vincent Vella honored Softball team MVPs Kaylee Witner, center, and Grace Warner, right, during MMI’s Athletic Awards ceremony. Absent from photo is Coach’s Award winner Alexis Dalesandro.

Honor Societies MMI inducts 27 students into Andrew J. Stofan Chapter of the National Honor Society MMI inducted 27 students into the Andrew J. Stofan Chapter of the National Honor Society. MMI English instructor Donna Titus serves as the National Honor Society advisor. National Honor Society inductees are: Khristian Banks, Ashley Bonifacio, Jeffrey DeAngelo, Annabel Dobash, Brenna Eckhart, Chance Eyerly, Anden Karlick, Erica Kline, Jordan Kulsa, Evelyn Lacombe, Noah Long,

Emely Lopez-Rodriguez, Kate Malay, John Mauna, Ty McDermott, Jillian McGeehin, Manal Muhammad, Caden Pease, Ava Putnam, John Schwear, Andrew Sechleer, Caleb Serock, Zander Spear, Kasia Svendson, Lucille van den Berg, Randy Zea, and Jessica Zheng. Officers are: Ryan McNelis, President; Sydney Kohl, Vice-President; Dominique Kline, secretary; and Jacqueline Snyder, treasurer.

MMI inducts 24 into National Junior Honor Society MMI inducted 24 eighth grade students into the National Junior Honor Society for the 2020-2021 school year.

Students inducted are: Chloe Allen, Willa Bartholomew, Corey Buchman, Lydia Chen, Alexander Composto, Eve Corazza, Aspen Crilley, Dante DeStefano, Daniel Griffith, Thomas Horvat, Aiden Hosier, Danica Karlick, Michael Kranyak, Gracie Magula, Joshua Naugle, MMI inducted 24 eighth grade students into the National Junior Honor Society for the 2020-2021 school year. Pictured are, first row, from left: Chloe Allen, Silvia Roberto, Michael Kranyak, Jason Roberts, Aiden Aubryannah O’Boyle, Scott O’Boyle, Kendall Hosier, Daniel Griffith, and Dante DeStefano. Second row: Lydia Chen, Willa Bartholomew, Thomas Horvat, Eve Corazza, Mia-Lyn van den Berg, and Evan Pedri. Third row: Scott O’Boyle, Aubryannah Orozco, Nicholas O’Boyle, Joshua Witner, Danica Karlick, Corey Buchman, Nicholas Pantages, Joshua Naugle, and Pantages, Evan Pedri, Alexander Composto. Absent from photo: Aspen Crilley, Gracie Magula, and Kendall Orozco. Silvia Roberto, Jason Roberts, Mia-Lyn van with membership in the organization Chapter membership not den Berg, and Joshua Witner. since its inception in 1929. only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but challenges them The National Junior Honor Society Today, it is estimated that more to develop further through active (NJHS) elevates a school’s commitment than one million students participate involvement in school activities and to the values of scholarship, service, in NJHS activities. NJHS chapters are community service. leadership, character, and citizenship. found in all 50 states, U.S. Territories, These five pillars have been associated and around the world.

Honor Societies MMI inducts students into National Art, Mathematics, and Science Honor societies MMI announced this year’s inductees into the Art, Mathematics, and Science National Honor societies.

Students inducted into the Chroma Chapter of the National Art Honor Society are: Thomas Mayernik and Sydney Kohl. Art instructor Lisa Marie Ferry is the advisor. Students inducted into the Mu Alpha Theta Chapter of the National Mathematics Honor Society are: Sandra Abdulrahman, Morgan Allen, Olivia Bartholomew, Rachael Betz,

Jayden Bonham, Christian Homnack, Lindsay Horvat, Ashley Loss, Dustin Paul, Robert Rinaldi, Emily Ryan, Connor Spencer, Morgan Strecker, Daniella Vasquez, Grace Warner, and Randy Zea. Officers are: Darren Zheng, president; Sydney Kohl, vicepresident; Katherine Lewandowski, secretary; Alexandra Young, treasurer; and Jacqueline Snyder, historian. Mathematics instructors Gerard Pierotti and Susan Moyer serve as the advisors.

Students inducted into the Science National Honor Society are: Sandra Abdulrahman, Irene Altmiller, Olivia Bartholomew, Alain Benitez, Rachael Betz, Jayden Bonham, David

Castro, Marcus Danchision, Chance Eyerly, Christian Homnack, Lindsay Horvat, Gregory Leonard, Noah Long, Ashley Loss, Thomas Mayernik, Ryan McNelis, Keiran Mele, Amelia Minzola, Violet O’Connell, Dustin Paul, Connor Spencer, Morgan Strecker, Kennedy Tavaris, Daniella Vasquez, Grace Warner, Kaylee Witner, and Randy Zea. Officers are: James Kelly, president; Dominique Kline, vice-president; Irene Altmiller, treasurer; and Darren Zheng, secretary. Science instructor Michael Mele is the advisor.

MMI students inducted into National Chinese, German, and Spanish Honor societies MMI announced the names of students who were inducted into the Chinese, German, and Spanish National Honor societies. Students inducted into the Echoes of Wisdom and Philosophy Chapter of the National Chinese Honor Society are: Lindsay Horvat, Keiran Mele, Connor Spencer, Morgan

Strecker, and Grace Warner. Officers are: Kevin McNulty, president; Aaron Haber, vice-president; Alexandra Young, treasurer; Hannah Falatko, secretary; and Millie Symbula, historian. Chinese instructor Christina Spencer is the advisor. Students inducted into the Simon Faltz Chapter of the National German Honor Society are: Khristian Banks, Brenna Eckhart, and Lucille van den Berg. Officers are: Louis DeAngelo, president; and Morgan Hosier, vice-president. German

instructor Gabriela Moustardas is the advisor. Students inducted into the Pablo Picasso Chapter of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica are: Sandra Abdulrahman, Nathan Dewar, Emely LopezRodriguez, Manal Muhammad, Randy Zea, and Jessica Zheng. Officers are: Ryan McNelis, president; and Hiba Muhammad, vice-president. Spanish instructor Syra Cruz Dewar is the advisor.

MMI honors middle school students for academic and athletic achievements during virtual awards ceremony MMI held a virtual awards ceremony to honor middle school students for their academic and athletic achievements. During the ceremony, eighth graders Alexander Composto, Michael Kranyak, Lydia Chen, and Kendall Orozco were recognized as the American Legion Award winners, which is given to the top two girls and top two boys with the highest grade point average. MMI also presented subject awards in each grade to the following students: Sixth Grade – Simona Sickler (Social Studies and Music), Philip Benyo (Math and English), Avari DeAngelo (Science), Katelyn Gera (Fine Arts), and Ian Composto (Greek). Seventh Grade – Caleb Skuba (Music), Cassidy McDermott (Latin I), Ava Genetti (Social Studies and English), Arushi Solgama (Math, Science, and Fine Arts), Dakota DeRegno (Health), and David Yamulla (Tech).

MMI recognized the American Legion Award winners, which is given to the top two girls and top two boys with the highest grade point average, during its middle school awards ceremony. Pictured are, from left: MMI Head of School Justin Kleinheider, Lydia Chen, Michael Kranyak, and Alexander Composto. Absent from the photo: Kendall Orozco.

Eighth Grade – Alexander Composto (Social Studies and English), Scott O’Boyle (Music), Kendall Orozco (Math and Latin II), Corey Buchman (Science), and Lydia Chen (Fine Arts).

MMI honored the top three finishers of its Sixth Grade Science Fair during its middle school awards ceremony. Pictured are, from left: MMI Head of School Justin Kleinheider, Sharon Zhuang, and Philip Benyo. Absent from photo: Amanda Stoffa.

Philip Benyo was honored for placing first in MMI’s Sixth Grade Science Fair for his presentation entitled “Drying with Zeolites.” Amanda Stoffa finished second for “Vinegar and Bone Flexibility” and Sharon Zhuang was third

for “Radio Waves.” Members of the middle school baseball team were honored for their participation during the 2021 season. Team members are: Frederick Blaine, Jozef Dovicak, Adam Frask, Benjamin Gombeda, Gabriel Horvath, Thomas Horvat, Michael Kranyak, Christopher Laverty, Nicholas Pantages, Evan Pedri, Bryce Radzwich, Christian Schultz, Caleb Skuba, and Joshua Witner. Members of the middle school softball team were also recognized for their performance during the 2021 season. Team members are: Chloe Allen, Emily Borchick, Phoebe Bramley, Eve Corazza, Ruth Huey, Kaedyn Harrelson, Nora Hersheim, Danica Karlick, Mary Kupsky, Cassidy McDermott, Kendall Orozco, Yeleiny Paniagua, Silvia Roberto, Erica Schwear, Mia-Lyn van den Berg, and Madelyn Young.

MMI students selected for 2021 PA Governor’s School for the Sciences

MMI juniors, from left, Rachael Betz and Connor Spencer were selected to participate in the 2021 Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Sciences.

MMI captures top three places in Luzerne Co. Envirothon MMI captured the top three places in the virtual Luzerne County Envirothon competition. MMI’s first-place team of Darren Zheng (captain), Louis DeAngelo, Hunter Blasko, Dominique Kline, and Violet O’Connell advanced to the state competition. The team of Rachael Betz (captain), Keiran Mele, Olivia Bartholomew, Connor Spencer, and Sandra Abdulrahman placed second. The team of Kathryn Sissick (captain), Nathan Sissick, Nathaniel Neidlinger, Blake Warren, and Diane Arias-Tejeda finished third. MMI had a total of 10 teams compete in this year’s event. MMI science instructor and Envirothon advisor Michael Mele said, “I’m always impressed when 50 students voluntarily take on extra studies outside of the normal curriculum. I appreciate the fact that our students had this opportunity and look forward to the future of the Envirothon program at MMI.” The Pennsylvania Envirothon is one of the state’s largest natural resource education competitions. It provides thousands of students with the

MMI captured the top three places in the virtual Luzerne County Envirothon competition. The first-place team of, from left, Darren Zheng, Hunter Blasko, Violet O’Connell (on phone), Dominique Kline, and Louis DeAngelo advanced to the state competition.

knowledge and tools necessary to address the natural resource challenges facing today’s world. During the competition, five-member teams participate in a series of field station tests that focus on five topic areas – soils and land use, aquatic ecology, forestry, wildlife, and environmental issues. Additionally, the teams complete an oral presentation that provides them with the experience of developing a presentation from start to finish that is based on a written scenario.

The testing station and oral presentation scores are combined to determine the winning team. The first Envirothon competition was held in 1979 by the Fulton, Luzerne, and Schuylkill conservation districts and by 1984, the program expanded to a statewide competition and then nationally and internationally. Now, more than 15,000 high school students across the state compete in 67 county Envirothons.

Abrams and McGraw donations help MMI add three sets of adjustable-volume digital micropipettes

In Mr. Michael Mele’s room, MMI was able to add three sets of adjustable-volume digital micropipettes in different sizes. The students had previously used manual pipettes which tend to be very durable and easily maintained. However, with upgrades in lab equipment such as a new PCR, thermocycler and spectrophotometer digital pipettes allow for the students to ensure increased accuracy, reduced force, and a lower risk of cross-contamination. The purchase of the pipettes were funded by Richard Abrams ’88 and Sean McGraw.

Junior Connor Spencer wins overall Best of the Best award for 2020-2021 Junior Connor Spencer won MMI’s overall Best of the Best title for the 20202021 school year with his presentation on The Future of Energy in a reimagined format for the annual assembly program. This year, awards were given out to the highest-scoring assembly in each grade and those students were named Best in Class. The student who received the highest score among the Best in Class winners was named the overall Best of the Best winner. Justin Kleinheider, MMI Head of School said, “The MMI Assembly program was reimagined this year to accommodate the pandemic. In the absence of our usual Open House program, the students combined the research, analytics, and presentation skills from the Assembly program and the Open House project to create this year’s assemblies. Some students presented live to the class while others presented virtually, further mixing technology in to the event. It was

different but it showed the adaptability and perseverance of our student body. I am consistently amazed at the great work our students do!” In addition to Spencer, the Best in Class winners were: Seventh Grade – Gabriel Horvath (Energy Drinks) and Serena Novotney (The Meaning of Dreams); Junior Connor Spencer won MMI Preparatory School’s overall Eighth Grade – Scott Best of the Best title for the 2020-2021 school year. Pictured O’Boyle (The JFK are, seated from left: Gabriel Horvath, Serena Novotney, and Assassination); Ninth Khristian Banks. Standing: Abigail Sparich, Ava Putnam, Jillian Grade – Abigail McGeehin, Scott O’Boyle, and Connor Spencer. Absent from Sparich (What Colors photo: Louis DeAngelo. Mean in Modern Countries), and Ava Putnam (The Life Media); 10th Grade of a Marine Biologist); and 12th Grade – Khristian Banks (The Fear of Public – Louis DeAngelo (History of Virtual Speaking), Jillian McGeehin (How Reality). COVID in the USA Compares to Other

Faculty Farewell Our MMI faculty and staff take exceptional care to guide our students and we are grateful for their dedication. Three additional faculty members will be departing our campus this summer. Thank you to all of them for their years of service and dedication to our students’ education. Mrs. Stella Boosalis

Stella Boosalis joined the MMI faculty as the full-time Librarian on August 20, 2008 after serving one year in the post in a parttime capacity. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Russian and Soviet Studies from the University of Portsmouth, U.K. Ms. Boosalis previously worked in the education field in various roles, conducting educational tours in Europe and in the former Soviet Union, and as a teacher, librarian and administrator. Enhancements Boosalis has implemented for the MMI Library include the acquisition of the Accessit

Library Management System which is an integrated library management system that allows extensive access to resources from individual classrooms. She served on the Library Committee during the construction and planning of the Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center and was instrumental in relocating the facility from the basement of the school to the new building which opened on May 10, 2012. Mrs. Susan Moyer Susan Moyer taught mathematics at MMI during two different periods. She was first a member of the faculty from 19911999 and left to spend four years at Lehigh Carbon Community College. She returned to MMI in 2004 and has been at the school through this school year. Mrs. Moyer holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics and a Master of Science Education Degree with a concentration in Mathematics,

both from Wilkes University. She has additionally served as a Class Advisor, and advisor for extracurricular activities such as: Math Counts, Pennsylvania Academy of Science (PJAS), and a number of University-level math competitions. Mr. Vince Vella With over 30 years of teaching and coaching experience, Vince Vella joined the MMI faculty for the 2017-2018 school year to teach physical education at all grade levels. In the summer of 2018, he was appointed Athletic Director and Head Girls Varsity Basketball Coach, positions he has held for the last three years. He helped the girls to the District Runnerup title in 2020. Mr. Vella has a Bachelor of Science Degree from St. Francis College and a Master’s Degree in Physical Education Curriculum and Development from Columbia University.

MMI sophomore captures first place at FBLA State Leadership Conference, two others place in top 10 MMI sophomore Jessica Zheng captured first place at the virtual Pennsylvania Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference and will represent MMI at the National Leadership Conference, while sophomore Manal Muhammad and junior Rachael Betz both finished in the top 10. Zheng placed first in the Intro to Business Presentation event, Muhammad was eighth in the Intro to Social Media Strategy event and Betz finished 10th in the Journalism event. Zheng, Muhammad, and Betz were among 24 MMI students who advanced to the State Leadership Conference following their performance at the regional competition in December. Due to the pandemic, the State Leadership Conference, which is usually held over the course of three days in Hershey, was completed virtually this year. Katherine Zucco, MMI instructor and FBLA advisor, said, “Participating in PA FBLA has been especially challenging this year. We managed to keep the enthusiasm for FBLA alive at MMI, and

I am very grateful to all the faculty and staff for everything they have done for our students this year to keep their spirits up. As a result, we have so many students who continue to show us how much they value hard work and perseverance, especially when times are tough. I am incredibly proud of all of our students, and I am hopeful that we will see more from them in FBLA in the coming years.”

MMI sophomore Jessica Zheng captured first place at the virtual Pennsylvania Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference and will represent MMI at the National Leadership Conference, while sophomore Manal Muhammad and junior Rachael Betz both finished in the top 10. Pictured are, from left: advisor Katherine Zucco, Rachael Betz, Manal Muhammad, and Jessica Zheng.

More than 5,500 students and advisors participate annually in the PA State Leadership Conference. During the event, qualifying students participate in numerous competitive events, attend leadership development seminars, and campaign for state office. Advisors

administer the competitive events and participate in professional development seminars. The National Leadership Conference was also held virtually this year from June 29 to July 2.

Mid Penn Bank donates to MMI’s EITC Scholarship program Mid Penn Bank donated $7,500 to MMI through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Scholarship program.

comprehensive financial solutions. Originally founded in Millersburg, Pennsylvania, Mid Penn has expanded over the years to become a full-service financial institution operating in 12 Pennsylvania counties. As a community bank, Mid Penn is dedicated to supporting a variety of organizations and causes through donations and employee volunteerism. In 2020, Mid Penn Bank made $1.59 million in charitable contributions to the community; $830,000 of which was directed to educationfocused organizations.

MMI Director of Advancement Kim McNulty said, “We are grateful to all of our donors, and especially to Mid Penn Bank for this very generous scholarship gift. The EITC program and the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit Program (OSTC) Mid Penn Bank donated $7,500 to MMI through the give companies an annual Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Scholarship program. opportunity to put their Picture are, from left: MMI Director of Advancement Kim business’ tax dollars to work McNulty, Mid Penn Bank Vice President and Commercial Loan in their own community. This Officer Luci Kulish, and MMI Head of School Justin Kleinheider. academic year, 55.5 percent The EITC and OSTC “We are committed to investing in and of our students received needprograms allow a business to helping enrich the many communities based tuition assistance, so contributions send up to 90% of its annual PA tax debt we serve. Access to innovative learning like this help area students have to MMI for scholarships and only pay opportunities and programs is so the opportunity to obtain an MMI the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania important for young students and helps education.” 10%. A portion of the gift can be claimed our communities thrive.” on the business’s federal tax return as a “Mid Penn Bank prides itself on charitable gift. Since 1868, Mid Penn Bank has being a true community bank,” said remained committed to serving the Mid Penn Bank Vice President and local community and providing Commercial Loan Officer, Luci Kulish.

MMI seniors Darren Zheng and Louis DeAngelo named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists MMI seniors Darren Zheng and Louis DeAngelo were named as Semifinalists in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program.

on their academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. The student must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.

Zheng and DeAngelo are among a national field of approximately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 66th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors MMI seniors, from left, Darren Zheng and Louis DeAngelo were named as have an opportunity Semifinalists in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. to continue in the About 90 percent competition for some of the Semifinalists are advance to the Finalist level of the 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth expected to attain Finalist standing and competition. more than $30 million that will be about half of the Finalists will win a To become a Finalist, Semifinalists offered next spring. To be considered for National Merit Scholarship, earning the must submit a detailed scholarship a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists Merit Scholar title. application including information must fulfill several requirements to

UGI Energy Services makes $5,000 Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit program donation to MMI UGI Energy Services recently made a $5,000 donation to MMI as part of the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) program. MMI Director of Advancement Kim McNulty said, “I’d like to thank UGI Energy Services for their generous contribution to our school. Since 2005, MMI students have received nearly $3.9 million in scholarship support thanks to the contributions of businesses like UGI Energy Services. When companies contribute to MMI through the OSTC or EITC program, it helps our efforts to make our educational experience available to the most capable students regardless of their financial circumstances.”

Joe Hartz, president of UGI Energy Services said, “We are pleased to support students and educational programs across Pennsylvania. The OSTC program has provided funding to give students an opportunity for quality learning in a safe environment. At UGI, we believe that education is of the utmost importance in the communities where we work and live.” A subsidiary of UGI Corporation, UGI

Energy Services, LLC, markets natural gas, electricity and liquid fuels to commercial, institutional and industrial customers at approximately 43,000 locations in eleven eastern states and Washington, D.C. UGI Energy Services owns and operates natural gas midstream assets such as liquefied natural gas storage UGI Energy Services recently made a $5,000 donation to MMI and vaporization, Preparatory School as part of the Opportunity Scholarship Tax underground storage Credit (OSTC) program. Pictured are, from left: Bill Richards, District Director for State Senator John T. Yudichak; Kim McNulty, fields, gathering, MMI Director of Advancement; Justin Kleinheider, MMI Head of intra and interstate School; and Pamela Whitmer, Vice President, Government Affairs pipeline systems, and for UGI Energy Services. compressor stations. These assets support business to gift up to $750,000 of its the retail business as well as our electric Pennsylvania state tax dollars directly to generation assets, and peaking plants. To the school’s scholarship program. learn more about UGI Energy Services, Tax credits are given for 90 percent of visit: http://www.ugies.com gifts given in two consecutive years, or The OSTC program, along with the 75 percent of a one-year gift. EITC and Educational Improvement Tax Credit OSTC enable companies to support local (EITC) program, enables a Pennsylvania schools at a minimum cost.

MMI senior Kevin McNulty receives two awards in the 2021 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards MMI senior Kevin McNulty has been selected to receive both the President’s Volunteer Service Award and a Distinguished State Finalist medallion in The 2021 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards for his volunteer work at the Al Beech/West Side Food Pantry in Kingston. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program is the United States’ largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer community service. Created in 1995 by Prudential and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the program honors middle level and high school students for outstanding service to others at the local, state, and national level. The President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country. Distinguished Finalists are chosen by the organization’s state-level judges as being one of the top runners-up in their state. What began as an in-school service project in kindergarten at Wyoming Valley Montessori School, led to a volunteer commitment that continued through the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning in March of 2020, McNulty logged more than 250 service hours during his time at the food pantry and was feeding as many as 1,500 people per

week by the middle of the summer. McNulty’s work with the food pantry involved a lot of physical labor and support. Every Monday, the pantry received a shipment of more than 8,000 pounds of food on two to four pallets and his job was to break down pallets and pass the food off to an assembly line of volunteers to transport it into the food pantry, which is located inside of a church. He also stowed dairy and eggs and reorganized the walk-in refrigerator each week. On distribution day, McNulty set up canopies in the parking lot, moved tables, helped bring the food outside to the four or five areas that were set up for the drive-thru distribution, loaded food into the clients’ trunks during the fourhour distribution, ran food from station to station as needed, and helped clean up at the end of the distribution time. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the pantry served about 150 people per week. However, by mid-July, the pantry had served its 500,000th meal since the middle of March and was averaging service to more than 1,500 people per week with just a small group of volunteers. During his time working at the food pantry amidst the pandemic, McNulty realized that people from all different walks of life could face food insecurities and said the biggest lesson he learned

MMI senior Kevin McNulty has been selected to receive both the President’s Volunteer Service Award and a Distinguished State Finalist medallion in The 2021 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards for his volunteer work at the Al Beech/West Side Food Pantry in Kingston.

from the food pantry leaders was to smile, offer an encouraging word, welcome people to the pantry, and ask them to return. At MMI, McNulty is the President of the National Chinese Honor Society, the stage manager for the Prepper Playhouse fall production, a captain of the varsity baseball team, and a member of the National Honor Society, the National Science Honor Society, and National Mathematics Honor Society.

MMI Day of Giving raises more than $30,000 for The Scholarship Fund MMI’s 142nd anniversary was celebrated as our community stood up for MMI students with Day of Giving gifts to The Scholarship Fund. All in all, our MMI family came together to raise $30,607 from 125 total donors on Friday, May 7, 2021! A special thank you to Bryn Mawr Trust who offered $10,000 in matching gift dollars! And thank you to our anonymous supporter who pledged $2,000 when we hit the 125-donor mark! 24 Hours of Impact: Every Gift Counted.

MMI 15th Annual Wall of Fame Awards Dinner August 6, 2022 The 15th Annual Wall of Fame Awards Dinner was postponed until Saturday, August 6, 2022 when MMI will induct its newest class! Save-the-date to celebrate next summer with the following inductees! 2009 Varsity Girls Volleyball Team Athletic Achievement • First and only MMI girls’ team to win a District Championship. • At the time, they were only the second team in MMI history to win a District title. The only previous team to win a District title was the 1973 boys basketball team. • The team had a 12-8 record within the much larger Wyoming Valley Conference, qualifying for the smaller District 2A play-offs. The #4-seeded Preppers beat #1 Mountain View by a 3-1 score in the Semi-Finals and #2 Lackawanna Trail in an epic five-game battle in the Championship. • MMI season records were set by Diana Anthony ‘10 (936 digs, 123 aces), Brone Lobichusky ‘10 (282 blocks, 872 kills, 358 service points) and Alaina Titus ‘10 (669 assists). • Members of the team included: Diana Anthony ‘10, Ashmeen Bains ‘13, Courtney Bogansky ’11, Dana Chippi ‘11, Maurina DiSabella ‘13, Kelly Duffy ’13, Caitlin Ferry ‘10, Katlyn Frey ‘13, Sarah Gittleman ‘11, Cathy Hood ‘11, Kayla Karchner ‘13, Alyson Klush ‘10, Brone Lobichusky ‘10, Amanda Miller ‘11, Derya Sari ‘13, Alaina Titus ‘10, Alyssa Triano ‘12, Shannon Wenner ’10, and Kirsten Young ‘13. • The head coach was Bruce Young and the assistant coach was Dr. Gregg Bluth. Tyler Breznitsky ’09 Athletic Achievement • MMI’s all-time leading scorer in boys’ basketball with 1,900 points, averaging 21 points per game over his four-year career. • Led the Wyoming Valley Conference in scoring as a freshman with 19 points per game. • Surpassed 1,000 points in his junior year.

• Broke the MMI all-time scoring record as a senior with 36 points in a January game against Weatherly. He surpassed Jim Lundy ‘73 who scored 1,644 points

in his career. Lundy’s record stood for 36 seasons. • Breznitsky continued his career at Wilkes University where he played four seasons on the Varsity team and averaged 12 points per game. Edward (Ned) McNelis Service to MMI • Volunteer assistant coach for 12 years between 2004-2010 and 2015-2021. • From 2004-2005, McNelis worked with the Preppers mid-school boys’ basketball team under Head Coach Tony Kiddish. Between 2006-2010 he was a volunteer assistant for the boys’ varsity basketball team under Head Coach Joe Flanagan and for the baseball team guided by Head Coach Emmitt Thomas. During that time, he also helped out with the girls’ midschool basketball team. • After a quick break, McNelis returned to action at MMI from 2015-2021. He again worked with the mid-school baseball and basketball and varsity basketball programs. • McNelis’ coaching style included explaining and demonstrating skills in a way designed to make the player and, by extension, the team better. He always coached with the mindset that someday his players will be teaching the same thing to their children, so the concept had to be universal and time honored. Thomas Crofcheck ‘73 Professional Achievement • Worked as an auditor for the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare for 35 years before his retirement. • In 2004, as the Director of Welfare’s Division of Audit and Review, he initiated a state audit of the juvenile detention center at the heart of the kids-for-cash scandal. He began to look into the 20-year, $58 million lease and operation of a private for-profit juvenile detention center in Northeastern Pennsylvania. • Demonstrating courage and leadership despite being personally sued by the owners of the facility because of his audit, he pursued a complex investigation against powerful

vested interests and under a national spotlight. • The audit resulted in the termination of the lease and initiated a federal investigation and series of subsequent lawsuits in which 4,500 to 6,500 former juvenile defendants had their tainted sentences vacated. • In May of 2010, Crofcheck was awarded the prestigious Governor’s Award of Excellence for his efforts on this audit and was recognized by the Pennsylvania Senate. Jerry Hludzik ’70 Professional Achievement • A famed musician, songwriter and producer, Jerry Hludzik passed away on April 12, 2020. • He formed his first band, The Odd Powers, in Freeland and later joined legendary Hazleton, PA local bands, Happiness and Moses. He began performing and writing in-earnest while still in his early teens. • Following his MMI graduation, Hludzik went on to study at Luzerne County Community College where he fatefully met Bill Kelly, co-founder of The Buoys. Hludzik joined the band and the group vaulted to national prominence when their hit song, “Timothy,” peaked at number 17 on Billboard Top 40 chart. • The Buoys eventually broke up in the mid-70’s but Hludzik and Kelly formed Jerry-Kelly in the late 70’s, and eventually Jerry-Kelly morphed into Dakota in 1980 where they had some international success. • Dakota reached Billboard’s Top 100 when “If it Takes All Night” reached the number 78, and it got them a chance to open up for Queen during Queen’s The Game Tour, a 35-city run of America’s top concert venues. • After the partners split in the mid80’s, Jerry Hludzik continued to write songs. He was signed to MCA Music Publishing in Nashville, TN, as a songwriter, and scored album cuts by the Oak Ridge Boys. • He continued to record and perform live as a solo artist and with Dakota until he became ill and subsequently passed away.

MMI Hosts Kislan Golf Tournament MMI hosted the 12th Annual Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament at the Valley Country Club on June 25. Congratulations to the team of Neal DeAngelo ’01, Bob Gorski, Bobby Hillabush, and Eric Eyerly who captured first place, shooting -14 under par with a score of 57. Second place went to the team of Mark Katchur ’95, Seth Brogan, Dave Masteller, and Charlie Sanko who shot a score of 60 (-11). The Closest to the Pin on Hole #2, sponsored by Computer Management and Marketing Associates (CMA), was Eric Eyerly. The Longest Men’s Drive on Hole #8, also sponsored by CMA, was Scott Kavlick. Michelle Genetti won the Longest Women’s Drive on Hole #11, sponsored by Rose Welliver ’73. David Caldwell won the Closest to the Pin on Hole #12, sponsored by Hawk Mountain Labs. The Closest to the Keg contest on Hole #16, sponsored by Karl’s Case and Keg, was won by Al Baran. The winner of the 50/50 raffle was Bill Haines, who generously donated his $705 share back to MMI. F&L Doors sponsored the Hole in One competition for a $10,000 cash prize. PNC Bank was the tournament’s Eagle Sponsor for the 12th consecutive year. This year’s Golf Gift Sponsor was Bryn Mawr

The Mistal, Yurick, and Zabransky families brought two foursomes to enjoy the day!

The winning foursome of, from left, Eric Eyerly, Neal DeAngelo ’01, Bobby Hillabush, and Bob Gorski stand with Mickey Kislan, widow of Jake Kislan ’56, and Justin Kleinheider, Head of School.

Trust, Wealth Management Division. The Golf Technology Sponsor was Tri-Mountain Ventures. Brenner Core Group was the Golf Cart Sponsor and the Beverage Cart sponsor was the Class of 1995. The Cocktail Hour Sponsor was Amcor Flexibles. Community Bank was the Hand Sanitizer Sponsor for the event. Hole sponsors were: Frank, Sandy and Anthony ‘06 Orlando; Planted Earth Fitness and Marcy Mistal ‘92; Laurels Senior Living Community; Al Baran, Chris & Jim Kelly, and Barb & Chris May in honor of Jimmy Kelly ’21; Golden Business Machines; OneGroup Risk Management and Insurance; Rex Vending Co.; Louie’s Prime Steakhouse; Julie and Bob Parmegiani in honor of Kevin McNulty ’21, Lagana Wealth Advisory Group at Janney Montgomery Scott, The Seach Law Offices; Dr. and Mrs. William Shergalis ‘58; Hazle Drugs; and Computer Management and Marketing Associates, Inc.

MMI holds annual Donor Recognition Reception The Head of School’s Donor Recognition Reception, sponsored by State Street, was held from 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 10 at the Valley Country Club on the outdoor patio. 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.

Representatives of the MMI Board of Directors present Head of School Justin Kleinheider with an end-of-the-year gift.

At left, President Emeritus Dr. Bill Shergalis ’58 and his wife, Miki, visit with Head of School Justin Kleinheider, Sandy Orlando, Atty. Richard DiLiberto ’79, and his wife, Faith.

Above, Grant Cusat ’95, Tyler Breznitsky ’09, and John Slyconish ’95 catch up. At left, Dr. Joe Donato ’66 and his wife, Eileen, spend time with Nick Dei Tos ’71 and his wife, Pat.

Around Campus The Preppers won the District 2 Class 1A Championship in baseball this spring and then made school history with the program’s first-ever win in States. The team beat District 3 Class 1A Champions Greenwood High School, 7-3, before falling in the State Quarterfinals to Juniata Valley, 6-2. Seniors Marcus Danchision and Kevin McNulty were named to the 2021 Citizens’ Voice Wyoming Valley Conference All-Star Team. Marcus was also named the Athlete of the Week on two occasions during this spring’s baseball season, once by the Standard Speaker and once by the Citizens’ Voice. Marcus will attend Lehigh where he will play baseball. He was 8-3 with a 1.44 ERA, striking out 121 batters in 68 innings. Marcus batted .449 with four doubles, two triples and one home run, and led the team with 31 hits. Kevin will continue playing baseball at RIT. He batted .323 with three home runs and six doubles, and led the team with 20 RBIs, and scored 15 runs. On the mound he was 4-1 with a 2.58 ERA, striking out 31 in 19 innings of work. Seven students placed in the annual Israel T. & Mildred Klapper Memorial Holocaust Essay Contest. Due to COVID-19, last year’s winners were announced in 2021. Freshman Nathan Sissick (Middle School category) and Paige Machulsky ’20 (High School category) captured first place in the 2020 contest. Freshman Robert Orbin (Middle School) and senior Darren Zheng (High School) finished in second place. Seventh grader Serena Novotney placed first in the Middle School category of the 2021 contest and senior Peter Walko and junior Daniella Vasquez came in first and second, respectively, in the High School category.

Chinese Language students celebrated Chinese New Year in February by creating artwork for the Year of the Ox and sharing in a traditional Chinese meal.

The performing arts at MMI were alive and well this past year. Under the direction of Mrs. Joanne Oakum, the Upper School Drama Club presented their annual “Another Evening of One Acts-Pandemic Style”, with a filmed production of Help Desk a play by Don Zolidis. This virtual project involved 25 MMI students. To receive a link to the show, contact Joanne at mmi@mmiprep.org. On February 17, the MMI Parents Association, provided the students, faculty, and staff with donuts in honor of donut day. Thank you! February 18 was Anthro Day! Anthropology is the holistic study of humankind and it is an elective class at MMI. Students created a slideshow that is played in the Coxe Commons for all to see February 26 was a Blanket Dress Down Day! Students and faculty enjoyed a dress down day and wrapped themselves in their favorite blankets. Blanket forts were also encouraged in various classrooms! Sophomore Jessica Zheng was selected to participate in The Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program, which will be held virtually from June 28 to August 5. Zheng was one of 100 students who advanced to the final round of judging and one of approximately 60 to be selected for the program. The Summer Science Research Program is designed Jessica Zheng to give high school students ages 16 and older a mentored biomedical research experience. Students will spend approximately 20 hours each week engaging in virtual events and home-based science projects that promote a deeper understanding of biomedical research and its relationship with society. The AP Environmental Science class conducted a “cookie” mining lab to help teach students about cost vs. profit, the management strategy for continuity, and reclamation of land. Students purchased tools on credit, rent the land, and pay mining fees. The chips were the “ore” they mined to generate revenue. Different kinds of cookies yielded different revenue. Nine students represented the School at the MATHCOUNTS virtual chapter competition and eighth grader Alexander Composto qualified to participate in the Chapter Invitational. Sixth graders Philip Benyo, Ian Composto, Simona Sickler and Amanda Stoffa; seventh grade students Sharan Parikh and Arushi Solgama; and eighth graders Corey Buchman and Kendall Orozco also participated in the chapter competition. MMI Mathematics instructor Susan Moyer was the advisor for the event.

Around Campus

(continued)

On May 3, seniors got to decorate their parking spaces and show their college choice pride! The 6th Grade Science Fair was held on March 3. The Fair looked a bit different this year as students uploaded videos of their projects to be shown in class for a virtual experience. The senior class held a school-wide Kahoot competition on March 12, the last Friday before Spring Break. Senior Dominique Kline received two awards in the regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards competition. Kline won a Silver Key for her poem, “no harmony in human NATURE” and was awarded an Honorable Mention for her poem “Notches on a Belt.” MMI English instructor Jennifer Novotney served as the advisor for the competition.

Senior Kevin McNulty will continue his academic and baseball careers at Rochester Institute of Technology. Pictured are, seated, from left: Kevin McNulty and his mother, Kim McNulty. Standing: Head of School Justin Kleinheider, Varsity Baseball Coach Ryan Jastremsky, and Athletic Director Vincent Vella.

AP Bio students conducted ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay). This process analyzes samples from subjects (artificial samples were used in class) blood or saliva to detect antibodies generated through exposure to known diseases. This type of protocol can test for diseases such as HIV, SARS (including COVID-19), West Nile virus, cholera, smallpox, anthrax, drug use, Lyme disease, trichinosis, and influenza, as well as a host of other conditions. Blue colors shown on the well plates are positive indicators of tested conditions. In class, students mimicked the spread of infection by mixing subject sample vials randomly and inserting one “viral” sample into the mix. This test shows who the original positive case was and whom it was transmitted to. MMI students in the 8th grade American Government class worked with Ms. Englysh Handlong ’12, Mr. Mike Scarlato, and Mrs. Katie Zucco to understand the demanding and complex nature of the American Presidency throughout history. Each student was assigned to research one of the 46 American Presidents, and to specifically learn about the historical events

Freshman Woobie Kupsky represented MMI at the District II swimming championships. He was District Champion in the 500 free with a new district record of 4:42.48 and placed second in the 200 IM. He advanced to States where he placed 7th in the 200IM and 3rd in the 500M. He was also named the Citizens’ Voice boys swimmer of the year!

Around Campus

(continued) 14 RBIs. She also led the WVC with 11 doubles. MMI Prepper Playhouse completed filming a lip sync tribute to their favorite musicals. Students in grades 6 through 12 participated in the production. Mrs. Joanne Oakum and student editors are working on a summer release of this virtual project tentatively titled, Covid Shmovid-The MMI Prepper Players Lip Sync Song and Dance Spectacular. A link will be available August, 2021. Contact Joanne at mmi@mmiprep.org for details.

MMI had a great day to celebrate MMI’s 142nd anniversary on May 7! Thank you to the Parents Association for sponsoring a cornhole tournament, getting the students a Rita’s Italian Ice Treat, and for providing a wonderful lunch for faculty and staff from Capriotti’s! The Seniors and Freshmen had a blast bonding and carrying on the tradition of the Pajama Parade around Freeland. Thank you to all of the donors who also participated in MMI’s Day of Giving on May 7! surrounding the election of each president, the personal characteristics and leadership styles of each president, as well as the triumphs and challenges each president experienced during his term in office. Students then took time to evaluate each American President in light of his performance as President of the United States. Finally, students shared their work in the form of a large poster presentation, which was conducted both in-class and virtually. Seniors Marcus Danchision and Kevin McNulty, and Head Baseball Coach Ryan Jastremsky visited the BK Smokehouse Brewers of the West Side Little League in Edwardsville in May. Marcus and Kevin spoke to the team about some of their experiences as baseball players, answered questions, and then offered some tips and pointers as the team practiced. The latest version of the Student Literary Magazine, Angst, is now available on MMI’s website. Check it out at https://www. mmiprep.org/student-literary-magazine.

The MMI softball team advanced to the District 2 Class 1A Quarterfinals where they fell on the road to Lackawanna Trail on May 25. Junior Grace Warner was selected a 2021 Citizens’ Voice Wyoming Valley Conference All-Star in softball. She hit .507, and led the Preppers with 29 hits, 20 runs scored and

MMI English Instructor Jennifer Novotney will be attending The Kenyon Review Writers Workshop for Teachers this summer after being selected as one of 14 attendees from an international applicant pool. The Workshop is a creative writing workshop designed for high school and middle school teachers who love to write. They combine the generative spirit of the Kenyon Review Writers Workshops with a focus on classroom practices meant to encourage student creative writing. The six-day intensive is part writers’ retreat and part professional development, introducing teachers to a range of prompts and strategies meant to inspire their own work as well as the work of their students. Congratulations to seniors Louis DeAngelo, Katie Lewandowski, and Darren Zheng for being named Scholastic Superstars by the Standard Speaker.

Fresh off the 3D printer! This cell membrane took 15 hours to print in MMI’s Makerspace. The structure shows the phospholipids (little bubbles), structural proteins (spirals, domes, and depressions), and molecular channels (slotted tubes), allowing students to visualize the membrane components while holding the model in their hands.

Milestones

Events in the lives of the MMI family

Engagements Atty. Morgan Palermo ’09 and Justin Yakubowski ’09 announced their engagement recently. He is a Senior Fiduciary Advisor, Vice President, at Hawthorn PNC Family Wealth and she is an attorney at Legal Services of New Jersey. They are residing at their home in Wenonah, NJ.

Marriages Atty. Michael Casari ’08 wed Kelsey Powell on May 29, 2021. Michael earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Scranton. He also earned a juris doctorate from Widener University School of Law and is an attorney at Olexa & Casari, Ltd., Hazleton.

Blackwell, Gabriella Hernandez, Abigail Hernandez, and Alianna Hernandez; sister, Darlene Childers; and brother, Michael Blackwell. Maurice Levin Collen ’78 passed away on January 13, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Lesa; and children Emma and Aaron. Dr. Sanjay Kansara passed away on April 22, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Usha Kansara, and their two children, Druva Kansara ’14 and Sukanya Kansara. Ruthanne Kovatch passed away on June 9, 2021. Surviving are her husband, Deacon Gene Kovatch ‘55; daughter Karen Zimmerman ’89 and husband, Brandon; daughter Karla Kovatch; and granddaughters Anna and Rebecca.

Rachael Daniels ’11 wed Mark Buchholz on May 30, 2021. Rachael is a 2014 graduate of Johnson & Wales University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in sports, entertainment, and event management.

Carmen LaPorte ’49 passed away on September 7, 2020. He is survived by son, David LaPorte and wife, Dana Gold; daughter, Joan LaPorte and husband, Gary Shuman; granddaughter, Ashley; and sister, Angela Herring.

Bill Steward ’72 wed Terry Sandman on June 19, 2021. Bill is a retired Case Manager for the Veteran Administration and has three grown children: Jebadiah, Meghan, and Daniel.

Stanley Lobitz, Jr. passed away on January 24, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen; sons Dr. Stanley Lobitz ’76 and wife, Sharon; Daniel Lobitz ’78 and partner, Mark Jacobson; and Barry Lobitz; daughter, Lisa Lobitz Ashenfelter ’84 and husband, Scott; and grandchildren, Zachary and wife, Morgan; Lexxi and husband, Marco; Charlie; Jake; and Madeline.

Brett Witkowski ’04 married Andrella Kline on January 30, 2021, in Belleair, Florida. The couple resides in Odessa, Florida, where Brett works as a Portfolio Manager for Jaffe Tilchin Wealth Management.

Deaths Thomas Asson ’50 passed away on November 2, 2020. He is survived by two sons, T. Sean and wife, Elaine; and Drew and wife, Diane; and grandson, Benjamin E. Asson. Colonel Curtis Baskin ’41 passed away on October 6, 2020. He is survived by his three daughters and sons-in-law: Linda and Dana Smith, Diane and Louie Martin, and Mary and Frank Patrick, and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Chris Blackwell ’85 passed away on December 26, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Tracy; daughters Carrie Ann

Helen Mensinger passed away on March 4, 2021. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Mensinger, and sons Robert Mensinger ’73 and the Very Reverend Gary J. Mensinger. Surviving are her children Janet Drumm and husband, Michael; and John Mensinger and wife, Karen; daughter-in-law, Diane Mensinger; ten grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Mary Elizabeth Mertz passed away on May 6, 2021. Mrs. Mertz was predeceased by her brother, past MMI President Lambert Broad. She is survived by her sons Edward and Robert; daughter, Linda; five grandchildren; three greatgrandchildren; and one great-great grandson.

Seniors cap the year in style at 2021 Prom

The 2021 Prom was held on Thursday, June 3 at Capriotti’s.

Alumni Notes

What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe

Sarah Careyva ’10 has been working for the National Security Agency for the past few years. She was recently engaged and is planning a cruise ship wedding in 2022.

Tim Malchitsky ’81 will be playing the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand on July 24 with his band 70’s Flashback. Tim grew up listening to 60’s and 70’s music and began playing bass in local bands at the age of 15. He quickly established a presence as a bass player with strong vocals. Additional shows on the band’s summer and fall schedule include: July 25 at Fager’s Island (Ocean City, MD), July 30 Tim Malchitsky ’81 & 31 at Bristol Riverside Theatre (Bristol, PA), August 6 at the Union County Fair (Laurelton, PA), August 13 at Bloomsburg Nationals Car Show (Bloomsburg, PA), August 14 at Musikfest Café (Bethlehem, PA), September 5 & 6 at Knoebel’s Amusement Park (Elysburg, PA), September 11 at Centennial Park (Wildwood Crest, NJ), September 30 & October 1 at the Bloomsburg Fair (Bloomsburg, PA), and October 2 at Mauch Chunk Opera House (Jim Thorpe, PA).

Jay Corrigan ’53 and his wife, Maureen, are moving in July to a new Independent Living Retirement Community being built in Naples. They are looking forward to their new home!

William Feissner ’88 was appointed Butler Township Police Chief after nearly three decades as an officer in the department.

Dr. Carol Ann Costabile-Heming ’81 was recently appointed as Faculty Associate for Fulbright Programs at the University of North Texas, where she is a professor of German in the World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures Department.

Andrew Haber ’16 (Political Science), Jai-Jacob Hoover ’17 (Accounting and Finance), Athena Nicholas ’17 (Biology), and Daniel Tron ’17 (Physiology) graduated from the University of Scranton.

Dr. Lynsey Daniels ’08 recently matched at Our Lady of the Lake in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She will start her Fellowship for Minimally Invasive Surgery there on August 1, 2022, after finishing her general surgery residency at Cooper University in Philadelphia.

Cal Herring ’74 recently retired after 26 years of employment at the Keystone Job Corps Center. He is now employed part time at the Greater Hazleton Civic Partnership, which administers the local Rails to Trails, and will soon take the reigns of the Mountain Council of Governments. He is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Debra, his daughters, and grandkids, and to just hanging around the Freeland Fire Station, where he is an engineer.

Ashley Acri ’13 took a position as a registered nurse with Geisinger Health Network at their Bloomsburg Campus on the medical/surgical inpatient floor. She is currently representing her campus on the Nursing Retention and Communication Council for the Central Region of the network. In this role, she is developing a professional mentorship program for nurses with less than five years of professional nursing experience and a parallel professional mentorship program for nursing students from area universities. Ashley graduated from DeSales University with a Bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN) in 2020. Jeffrey Careyva ’14 is currently teaching at Harvard University as part of his PhD program in English and Literature.

Antonia Diener ’12 graduated from Harvard Law School in May. She will be working as a Public Defender in Colorado next year. Lew Dryfoos ’15 attended the Samuel Goldwyn Films party in Hollywood over Academy Awards weekend. Their film, “Another Round”, won Best International Feature Film. Lew got to visit with the movie makers from Denmark and to hold the Oscar that was presented at the Academy Awards.

Marcy Mistal Yurick ’92

Roy Johnson ’63 is currently serving as the President of the North Carolina Transportation Museum Foundation. The N.C. Transportation Museum is a historic site, once home to Southern Railway’s largest steam locomotive repair facility in the southeast, and a museum featuring all types of transportation history. It is located in Spencer, NC. Lew Dryfoos ’15

Marcy Mistal Yurick ’92 is an entrepreneur who currently resides in Oceanside, California, with her three sons; her boyfriend, Patrick Coglianese; and his children. She is a Penn State graduate and received a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Resources Management from University Park, Main Campus, in 1997.

She is an avid Penn State supporter and has been a board member of the San Diego Penn State University alumni chapter for four years. Marcy was recently elected as the president of the chapter.

Marcy has also been involved in numerous business opportunities on the West Coast. Marcy and Patrick are co-owners of Planted Earth Fitness. Planted Earth Fitness

offers one-on-one personal training sessions as well as group and virtual fitness training for all levels and ages. Check out their website at www.plantedearthfitness.com for more information about their business. Marcy also has a following on Facebook called Wear it Well with Marcy. Here she offers inspiration, fitness tips, health tips, and great quality clothing from Zyia Active. Marcy’s motto is to live a healthy, simple life while looking your best. Most recently, Marcy became a Certified Real Estate Agent for the State of California after passing her state test on April 29. In her spare time, Marcy enjoys traveling with her family. She travels to Northeast Pennsylvania every year to visit family and always gives MMI a wave and says thank you!!

Alumni Notes

(continued)

The Class of 1991 held a virtual reunion on Saturday, June 5. After hearing an update from Head of School Justin Kleinheider, members of the class had the chance to catch up. Thanks to Maggie Mistal ’91 for organizing the event! In attendance were: Chris Laczi, Maggie Mistal, Jason Pandolfo, Liz Pinkey, Eric Price, John Rhee, Gail Denesvich Takatomi, and Rafat Quli. Ed Herbener ’16 was named a Bloomsburg University Scholar Athlete as a member of the baseball team. Darshana (Shah) Khiani ’90 authored a recent children’s picture book, How to Wear a Sari, which released in June. She is a Principal Applications Engineer for Broadcom and resides in San Jose, California, with her husband, Manoj. Dr. Philip McHale ’58 was awarded the Liaison Committee on Medical Education Distinguished Service Award. Joshua Narrow ’17 accepted a position as a legislative analyst at a boutique pharmaceutical government relations firm, where, among other duties, he is responsible for managing a coalition of public and private pharmaceutical companies. Josh graduated Cum Laude from the Elliot School of International Affairs at The George Washington University in December 2020 with a degree in International Affairs and History, with a concentration in Global Public Health. He currently resides in Washington, D.C. Alex Rachubinski ’03 is living in Dubai and working as Admissions Specialist at the American School of Dubai. Alex and his wife, Andrea, moved to Dubai when Andrea accepted a position as a teacher at the American School of Dubai. According to Alex, “It’s an amazing city and the country is incredible! It really should be on the bucket list of everyone that travels. The UAE in general is a great place, the travel opportunities from here are second to none, and the job market is so unique for college grads. If MMI students and alums are willing to try something different and think outside the box, there is a whole new world for them here!” Mitch Sauers ’09 is currently working as CEO, Uganda for UpEnergy. As CEO, Mitch is responsible for overseeing UpEnergy’s strategy and day-to-day operations along with leading a diverse and high-performing team. Previously, Mitch worked in investment banking at JPMorgan Chase & Co., with LATAM Airlines Group, and with Fenix International, where he spent time scaling up their solar home system business Mitch Sauers ’09 throughout Uganda and across the African continent. Mitch holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and currently resides in Kampala.

The Class of 1992 held a virtual reunion in September of 2020. In attendance were: Cade Ward, Marcy (Mistal) Yurick, Nick Benz, Steve Silberg, Blanca Santolaya, Derrick Gennaro, Bill Deaton, Tanelle Yenkevich, Jarrod Tranguch, and Grete Floryshak. Jill Rothstein ’76 shared that she and her husband, Ira, retired together in 2019 and life couldn’t be better. She likened retirement to “having eight periods of recess every day!” They enjoy spending time playing pickleball, taking adult education classes, entertaining, keeping up with world events, volunteering, and more. Daughter, Alexa, is preparing for a winter 2022 wedding and Jill has enjoyed helping with the planning. Dr. William Spear ’15, PharmD graduated from the Boston campus of Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree this May. He is the third generation of Spear pharmacists that includes his father, Bill Spear ’79, and his grandfather.

Dr. William Spear ’15 and family

Allison Warner-Senape ’16 graduated Summa Cum Laude from King’s College in December of 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She received the Achievement Award for Management and The S. Idris Ley Memorial Award for the Highest Academic Achievement. She has accepted a full-time position with Benco Dental in Pittston as a Talent Coordinator in their Culture & People Department. Stephanie Zellner ’18 was selected to receive the 2021 Dorothy Day Service Award presented by the Faith-Justice Institute at St. Joseph’s University. This award recognizes a sophomore or junior student who has engaged in service learning or faith-justice studies courses with a demonstrated commitment to social justice and social change. The following MMI alumni have earned Dean’s List Honors: Emily Ankiewicz ’20 (Lehigh- Fall 2020), Brandon Crockford ’20 (Penn State Hazleton-Spring 2021), Madeline Dryfoos ’19 (Susquehanna-Fall 2020), Joshua Kalada-Kania ’18 (Lehigh-Fall 2020), Alexander Kline ’19 (Lehigh-Fall 2020), Emily Mundorf ’19 (Bloomsburg-Spring 2021), Anna Olivieri ’17 (Bloomsburg-Spring 2021), and Keenan Overa ’17 (Lehigh-Fall 2020).

Memorials

Library Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between January 23 and June 25, 2021 In Memory of Ed Abrams ’62 Mr. Richard W. Abrams ’88

In Memory of Simon Faltz Mr. Richard W. Abrams ’88

In Memory of Gemma and Andrew Arnoldi Mr. Andrew Arnoldi ’63 and Mrs. Judith Arnoldi

In Honor of Hannah Fields’ Graduation from Westminster College of the Arts at Rider University Ms. Roxanne Abrams

In Memory of George J. Barron Senape & Associates In Memory of Louis and Alexandra Betley Mr. Gregory Betley ’70 and Mrs. Anne Marie Lesniak-Betley In Honor of Rachael Betz ’22 Mr. and Mrs. Philip Houm In Memory of Philip Bissol ’71 Dr. Nazzi Zola ‘70 and Mrs. Carol Zola In Memory of Chris Blackwell ’85 Mr. John E. Kish ’85 In Memory of Robert Bohning ’87 Mr. John E. Kish ’85 In Honor of Corey Buchman ’25 Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Buchman In Memory of Bill Campbell Ms. Samantha M. Christopher ’04 In Memory of Joseph Caputo Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis

In Honor of Emily Hunsinger ’24 Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Anderson In Memory of Joseph Karpowich ’65 Mr. Robert Koslap ’65 and Mrs. Carol Koslap Atty. Rebecca L. Warren Esq. ’84

In Memory of Athena Ford ’01 Mr. James Britt and Mrs. Erin W. Britt ’02 Marquis George MacDonald Foundation, Inc. Mr. Gregory P. Slocum ’01

In Memory of Richard Kasaba ’56 Mr. and Mrs. Dan Mainiero Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Resetar

In Honor of Carter Frask ’20 and Adam Frask ’26 Mrs. Lois Zoldi

In Honor of Jimmy Kelly ’21 Mr. Al Baran

In Memory of Josephine Mucha Gabriel Mr. Joseph Mucha ‘50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha In Memory of William Genetti Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In Honor of George Gera ‘12 and Zachary Gera ‘18 Mr. and Mrs. George M. Gera In Honor of Katelyn Gera ‘27 Mr. and Mrs. Emil Gera

In Memory of Marilyn Katz Ms. Ilene Katz ’78

In Honor of Captain James F. Kettrick Dr. Robert Kettrick ’60 and Mrs. Eileen Kettrick In Honor of Anna Rita Kish Mr. John E. Kish ’85 In Honor of Emory John Kish Mr. John E. Kish ’85 In Memory of Paul Kleinheider Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto Jr. ’79 and Atty. Faith DiLiberto In Honor of Larry Koller ’83 Mrs. Kathy Koller

In Honor of The Class of 2021 Mrs. Nancy Lewandowski ’89 and Mr. James Lewandowski

In Honor of Benjamin Gombeda ‘26 Mr. Andrew Gombeda

In Honor of Eve Corazza ’25 Mrs. Laura A. Corazza Ms. Ann Ferrigno

In Memory of Louise Gower Mr. Ralph Moyer ’60 and Mrs. Carol Moyer

In Memory of Millie Kost Mr. Ian Kollar ’06 and Mrs. Maria Kollar

In Honor of Anthony Cusat’s Retirement Mr. Frank Molinaro and Mrs. Gwenann Molinaro

In Memory of Ruth Hayman Atty. Rebecca L. Warren Esq. ’84

In Memory of George Kostick ’64 Mrs. Ceil Kostick

In Honor of The Head of School’s Donor Reception Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha

In Honor of Michael Kranyak ’25 Mr. Patrick Higgins

In Memory of Edward Leon Deal ’42 Mrs. Anne J. Frey

In Honor of Reed Floryshak ’24 Mr. and Mrs. Harry Reed

In Honor of Morgan Hosier ’21 and Aiden Hosier ’25 Mr. and Mrs. Barry D. Hosier

In Memory of Nancy Deisroth Mrs. Ingrid DeBellas Mr. Carson Valkusky ’22 Atty. Rebecca L. Warren Esq. ’84

In Honor of John Hersker ’76 Mr. and Mrs. Vane Lucas

In Honor of Garrett Kost ’17 Mr. Justin T. Weiksner ’19

In Honor of Edward Kushma ’62 Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Kushma II In Honor of Anna Elizabeth Kushner Mr. John E. Kish ’85

Memorials (continued)

Library Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between January 23 and June 25, 2021 In Honor of John Vincent Kushner Mr. John E. Kish ’85 In Honor of Ethan Lloyd ’24 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Storaska In Memory of Stanley Lobitz Atty. Rebecca L. Warren Esq. ’84 In Memory of Irene Long Mr. Morgan D. Long ’19 In Memory of Rocco and Katherine Lutz Dr. Robert J. Lutz ’63 In Honor of Jack Malay ’18 and Kate Malay ’23 Mr. and Mrs. John Malay Sr. In Memory of Monica Martyak ’89 Mr. Richard W. Abrams ’88 Ms. Lisa M. Bonar ’88 Mr. Frank Cabell and Dr. Christine Cabell ’89 Mrs. Ann Coyle, Mr. Kevin Coyle ’87, Atty. John Coyle ’87, and Dr. Brian Coyle ’94 Mr. Anthony Cusat and Mrs. Elaine Cusat Mr. David Dotte ’89 and Mrs. Lurah Dotte Dr. Dario J. Gazek ’89 Dr. and Mrs. Francisco A. Gazek Dr. and Mrs. Paul Gutterman Mrs. Nancy Lewandowski ’89 and Mr. James Lewandowski Mr. John Longo and Ms. Patricia Longo Mr. Thomas Mayernik and Ms. Valerie Rudawski ’89 Mr. Christopher Nocchi ’89 and Mrs. Carrie Nocchi Mrs. Mary Lou Radick Atty. Paula L. Radick ’89 Mr. John A. Yeagley ’89 In Memory of Jules Mason ’32 Roman-Mason Foundation In Memory of James Massell ’00 Mr. Andrew N. Christopher ‘00 In Honor of Ty McDermott ’23 and Benjamin Gombeda ’26 Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Kistler

In Honor of Kevin McNulty ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Timothy McNulty Mr. and Mrs. Robert Parmegiani Mr. and Mrs. Donald Rau Colonel Andrew Straw ’75 and Ms. Anita Doran In Honor of Keiran Mele ’22 and The Mele Family Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Dellicker In Memory of Helen Mensinger Dr. Richard Bott ’79 and Mrs. Nadine Bott Mr. Paul D. Lesser ’73 In Honor of his Mother and worldwide mothers in commemoration of Mother’s Day Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha In Memory of John O’Boyle Dr. and Mrs. Louis O’Boyle In Honor of Evan Pedri ’25 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Newman Mr. and Mrs. Dave Pedri Mr. and Mrs. Charles Pedri In Honor of Jason Roberts ’25 Mrs. Kathy Roberts In Memory of Anna Rodino Reverend Daniel J. Vaskalis ’07 In Honor of Michael Scarlato’s Retirement Mr. Frank Molinaro and Mrs. Gwenann Molinaro

In Memory of Andrew Sofan ’22 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer In Memory of Martin Stefanik ’58 Mrs. Judith A. Stefanik In Honor of Morgan Strecker ’22 and Connor Strecker ’24 Mr. James Strecker In Honor of Althea Stewart ’22 Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bowman In Honor of Kasia Svendson ’23 Mr. and Mrs. Stewart Gassner In Memory of Nancy Thomas ’79 Ms. Sally A. Thomas ’73 In Memory of Joseph Tito ’92 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer In Memory of Dr. William Urosevich ’72 Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto Jr. ‘79 and Atty. Faith DiLiberto In Memory of Maria Vella Atty. Rebecca L. Warren Esq. ’84 In Honor of Peter Walko ’21 Mr. Lawrence Walko and Mrs. Debbie Walko ’79 In Honor of Ethan Warner ’19 and Grace Warner ’22 Mrs. Lois Zoldi In Memory of John F. Wilson Mr. Edward Lesny ’58 and Mrs. Susanne Lesny

In Honor of Christian Schultz ’26 Ms. Dawn Kancir

In Memory of Dr. David Yakacki ’69 Mr. and Mrs. Mark M. Brasavage Mrs. Linda Yakacki

In Memory of David Schutter ’57 Mr. Daniel Schutter ’57 and Mrs. Linda Ann Schutter

In Memory of Marija Yukcevich Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto Jr. ’79 and Atty. Faith DiLiberto

In Honor of Joshua Serock ’20 and Caleb Serock ’23 Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Regan

In Memory of Sarah Yuscavage ‘04 Mr. James Britt and Mrs. Erin W. Britt ’02 Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Yuscavage

In Honor of Simona Sickler ’27 Mr. and Mrs. Fran Sickler

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Baseball team wins district title!

MMI defeated Susquehanna 11-1 in six innings to capture the District 2 Class A baseball championship.

Important Dates New Student Orientation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Day of School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back to School Wine and Cheese. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prepper Field Day. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bring a Friend to School Day. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

August 23 August 24 September 8 September 10 September 27