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For Tom and Mary-Lee Hood, their time at MMI was all about...

Family, Love and Leadership Change is inevitable. It is often hard to navigate, but when you believe you’re leaving something in a little better position than when you started, it’s easier to make a transition. We’ll spend the next five months preparing for the Hoods to leave MMI so Tom can begin a new chapter as President of St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School (www.saa-sds.org) in Memphis, Tennessee. Tom

and Mary-Lee’s partnership has benefitted both MMI and the local community. He has served as both the Vice-President and Head of School while Mary-Lee has spent the last six years on the MMI faculty. Additionally, they are both involved in the local community; in their church, Boy Scouts, Rotary, and community gardens. They will leave behind a record of involvement and a solid foundation for the school to continue to move forward.

Not many schools have the opportunity for close family members to work together. Some might say that living and working together, plus having children at the school, sounds challenging.

But at the end of the day, it brought the Hood family closer together as each could relate to what was going on with the other throughout the day. “We weren’t sure how it was going to be at first with our children at the school and then Mary-Lee coming on to teach, but it was a blessing to be together and we feel it helped us both personally and professionally,” said Tom. Tom and Mary-Lee can often be heard referring to MMI as a family. From Tom’s opening remarks at many school events to day-to-day conversation, the underlying theme is about the school community as family. That has been intentional. Tom strongly believes that family sees you for who you are and the unconditional love that comes from that creates an atmosphere of support and honesty needed to provide a good environment for students. MaryLee said, “As an Army family, the military community would work Continued on page 3

The Hood family, from left, Tom, Cathy, Bill, Mary-Lee, Tom and Emeline.

Board chair addresses Head of School search Dear Alumni and Friends, To help us find our new Head of School, we have The mark of a healthy school like formed a search committee MMI is that leadership change creates led by the Board’s Vice the opportunity for freshness and new Chairman, John Hersker growth. Just as Tom took the reins from ’76. The Committee will be Dr. Bill Shergalis ’58 eight years ago, composed of both current we will find the right person to guide Board Members and Past this school into the future. We should Board Chairmen. It is attract a talented pool of candidates Stanley B. Warner III ’92 the responsibility of this because MMI is in great shape. We committee to lead a thorough and inclusive have a terrific faculty and staff, great students, search process, to facilitate feedback from the involved parents, engaged alumni and a entire MMI community and to recommend a dedicated Board of Directors who all share the final candidate to the Board of Directors. view that there is no better place to educate MMI has created a page on our website our children.

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where you can go for the latest updates on how this process is unfolding. Just visit mmiprep.org and click-on the “About” tab.

Our intention is to have our 11th Head of School in place by the start of the 20162017 academic year but we will not settle for anything less than the perfect fit for MMI during this process!

Wishing you a safe winter season,

Stanley B. Warner III ’92 Chairman, MMI Board of Directors

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From the Head of School “If the rate of change on the outside exceeds the rate of change on the inside, the end is near.”

Jack Welch (former CEO of GE) In 1986 as a young Army officer, I was learning to fly a helicopter. Flying a helicopter is an exercise in moving each hand in different directions while simultaneously moving your feet. It’s not easy. When starting out, the instructor picks the helicopter up to a three-foot hover, steadies it, and passes the controls to the student (me). I figured since the helicopter was steady when I took over, all I had to do was hold the controls perfectly still and all would be fine. So, I froze like a statue. And, despite my hopes, the helicopter began to move front to rear and side to side. Just a little at first, but eventually I was all over the field rather than holding steady.

Later, I realized I had failed to anticipate the external forces (wind) affecting the helicopter. I then made required inputs too late to account for the external forces. My unnecessarily large adjustments made our movement worse.

On that day, I handed (more like he took) the controls back to my instructor. I eventually learned to hover and fly a helicopter, but I also learned a valuable lesson about internal and external forces and the inputs required to control them.

Change is continuous, and it is also great opportunity. Our goal as individuals and as a school community should be to strive to get better each day. Each time we decide to make a change we have the opportunity for reevaluation.

MMI is going through that thoughtful process now. There is a difference between MMI being exactly the same as it was 5, 20, or even 50 years ago and the culture of MMI remaining consistent. Why MMI exists has not changed for 136 years; to provide area students with an affordable, world-class education. I am confident that will remain accurate long into the future. However, how we provide that educational experience will change as the world around us changes. Technology, local demographics and family dynamics all affect the way we must educate our students.

We must continually modify and adapt our program, curriculum and extra-curricular offerings to ensure our students are prepared for a lifetime of success. Change is not just an opportunity for growth, it is required for MMI to remain relevant.

In 2008, I took the controls of MMI from the very successful Dr. Bill Shergalis ’58. During my eight years as Head of School, the dedicated team of MMI educators has done a remarkable job growing and adapting to the needs of today’s students and their families. MMI is blessed to have had great continuity both in its leadership and in our faculty. As only the 10th President in our 136 year history, I recognized immediately that this continuity allowed us to make changes over time that were constant and well-thought out. Our combination of long-serving faculty, some serving for more than 30 years, and energetic young faculty, moderates the rate of change and ensures intentionality in all we do.

As I write this, MMI enrollment has never been stronger. We are financially stable. We have modified our curriculum to better prepare our students to thrive in today’s information age. We use technology to create and connect, all while continuing to provide our students with the best college preparatory education in our region. That is a tribute to the MMI team continually growing, adapting and giving more than is asked. It is this same spirit that will ensure MMI’s existence and prosperity for decades to come.

It will soon be time for me to pass the controls to the next leader. I am confident that whoever is chosen will lead with passion and thoughtfulness. It has been my honor to serve as Head of School for these past eight years. I know the Board will select a qualified pilot to take the controls and carry MMI forward toward a very bright future.

Thomas G. Hood Head of School

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

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Thomas G. Hood – Head of School

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

570-636-1108 570-636-0742 (fax) mmi@mmiprep.org www.mmiprep.org Joseph G. Rudawski – President Emeritus

Family, Love and Leadership together to watch over each other and the kids. We brought that influence here when we came to MMI. It really does take an all-hands-on approach to build a supportive environment where students thrive and feel loved.”

(Continued from page 1)

When asked what their fondest memories will be of MMI, Tom said, “There are a lot of things. On the first day of school every year, I love seeing the students come back and helping them navigate a new school or new year. I also love graduation.

For me it’s an unbelievable celebration, not only for the graduating students and their families, but also for all MMI graduates. When we call for alumni to stand, we see many alumni who have no immediate connection to the graduating class, yet they are at the event to welcome the newest MMI alums. That is incredible to me. Also, we reintroduced the ski club and I have many fond memories of that as well.”

Mary-Lee recalled attending her first Wall of Fame Dinner. “I was blown away by the stories the honorees were telling about the difference that MMI made in their lives, some of them with tears in their eyes. I also love how the students can be themselves here and celebrate their achievements with each other.”

Head of School Tom Hood speaks to a graduating class during Commencement exercises

Their experience as parents of four children, two of whom are graduates of MMI, has also lent itself to being an integral part of how they interact with the students. From the oneon-one conversations to the occasional correction, going back to their family values allows them to be parental figures to students. One thing is clear, they love the students.

Throughout the last several years, the Hoods have enjoyed many accomplishments. Mary-Lee is a role model for many of the girls – both those with a passion for science and those who didn’t quite think they could succeed. She’s also proud of her work raising awareness on sustainability and conservation. Tom is proud of the family environment carrying over to the faculty and staff. “Our faculty and staff truly care about one another.

We see that when they collaborate and when they rally around each other in times of need. When we share and work together, it creates an environment that shows education is not just about academics, it’s about raising and molding young people to be outstanding citizens,” said Hood.

This passion for moving beyond just the academics has made the Head of School, faculty and staff more accessible. “It’s important for students to see us as human. We loved hosting the students at our house before the Harvest Dance, after the Drama productions, at breakfast and other times because it gives us a chance to interact with them on a personal level. This relationship building subsequently provides the students a voice in their education; something that makes our program richer.”

The Hoods have simple advice for the new Head of School or a new faculty member. For the next Head of School it will be important to “trust your people and yourself. The people here are incredibly committed to the students and their families.

Although people might question you, keep the best interests of the students in mind with each decision and you will be properly serving the school.”

For an incoming faculty member, Mary-Lee reminds them to “be joyful…to be successful here you need to have joy. Reach out to your colleagues. You can get more from sharing your experiences with them than you think.”

Summing up his time at MMI, Tom equates the last 10 years as being exciting and purposeful. “I woke up every day wanting to come to school. I think that’s an important thing for everyone, to have fun and love what you do.”

Mary-Lee feels satisfied. “I can say that I feel good about what we’ve done here. We gave it our best, and we’ve gotten people’s best in return.”

Aside from the people, the Hoods will miss the size of MMI the most. Both echoed the sentiment that it is small enough to know everyone by name, from faculty to staff to students and their families. MMI’s an environment where you can be involved in so much at once, helping to make a difference in the lives of students and their families.

During their time in Freeland, the Hoods have built lifelong friendships and relationships that have enriched their lives in so many ways. That will be hard to leave behind. Their bond as a family, a true passion and love MMI has had many prominent visitors during Hood’s tenure of what they do, and the courage including Cheryl Boone Isaacs, president of the Academy of to share that with others, both Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Pictured with Hood and Boone on a personal level and from a Isaacs are John H. Hersker ’76, MMI Board of Directors vice leadership position is what will chairman, and Charles Seidel, MMI assistant head of school. make them missed by many.

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Mary-Lee Hood gained second family at MMI Mary-Lee Hood brought a love of teaching and desire to share her passion for science with a new generation to MMI when she joined the faculty in August of 2010. In the more than five years she spent on staff at MMI, MaryLee gained a second family among the students and colleagues she collaborated with both inside and outside the walls of the classroom.

Mary-Lee called teaching a “challenging but very rewarding” experience. Although she’s leaving MMI in June to start a new journey in Tennessee, she knows she will carry memories of the MMI family with her.

many of them say they want to be a scientist when they grow up.”

Mary-Lee Hood loved watching a passion for science grow in her students during her time at MMI.

“I have absolutely loved being a part of the MMI family. We spend a lot of time collaborating and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with my colleagues,” Mary-Lee said.

“It’s a fun, supportive environment and the students just make me laugh every day. They set high standards for themselves, which makes me want to always give them my best effort. I’ve also enjoyed sharing my love of plants and gardening with my students, both in the school garden and in the lab.”

After graduating high school, MaryLee initially wanted to study teaching but found that jobs in education were scarce in the late 1970s. She decided to study food science because it gave her a chance to explore a variety of science disciplines like microbiology, chemistry and engineering.

She graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science and obtained a master’s in food chemistry from the University of Massachusetts.

Prior to coming to MMI, Mary-Lee held a position as an adjunct chemistry instructor at

Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, New York, and as an instructor, trainer and master trainer for the Army Family Team Building program in Wiesbaden, Germany.

At MMI, Mary-Lee helped her sixth grade life science classes plant a garden from seeds on the school grounds. She has also taught eighth grade physical science, ninth grade health and AP biology and serves as the adviser to the Parent Faculty Organization.

She said her most rewarding moments came when students discovered their own success with science.

Mary-Lee said, “I treasure those moments when I’ve worked with a struggling student and see the light bulb go off, or when a student is convinced that he or she is ‘no good at science’ and then does well on a difficult test. Sharing the joy at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) competition when someone earns first place and seeing the look on the face of a student who just tasted something he or she grew are moments I will always cherish. Most importantly, I’ve enjoyed being a role model for girls and hearing so

Although MMI’s science program was already strong when she joined the faculty, Mary-Lee said it’s grown even further by adding teachers with experience in advanced technology. She also cited the grants and donations MMI received to purchase equipment, including a 3-D printer, and the school’s willingness to send teachers for training to use these new instruments.

Mary-Lee said MMI sets itself apart from other schools with its ability to provide individual attention to students, even during after-school hours, and encouraging students to explore science through programs like PJAS, Science Olympiad, Envirothon and Botball.

“My colleagues and I meet with students after school for additional help most days of the week. It is not unusual to see two or three science teachers working with one or two students on a project at 5 o’clock in the afternoon and the teachers are just as enthused as the students.”

In light of Mary-Lee’s devotion to MMI, it’s not surprising that the students are both what she hopes to be remembered for and what she will miss most about MMI. “I hope I’m remembered first and foremost as someone who cared deeply about every one of her students. If I made science relevant and interesting to someone, then that’s a plus,” she said. “I’ll miss the student body terribly and look forward to following them from a distance.”

MMI inducts students into National Honor Society

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MMI inducted 38 new members of the Andrew J. Stofan ‘22 Chapter of the National Honor Society during a ceremony at the school. Pictured are, first row, from left: Chava Kornblatt, Lauren Babinetz, Julia Snyder, Lauren Banyas, Angelica Alday, Madison Perchak, Gabriella Kupsho, Caelyn McGran and Abigail Paul. Second row: adviser Donna Titus, Marc Lobitz, Lauren Toscano, Talia Logerfo, Sydney Karpowich, Stephanie Zellner, Anna Olivieri, Lauren Freeman, Anna Haber, Michael Badamo, David Caldwell and adviser Katherine Zucco. Third row: Hunter O’Clair, Joshua Narrow, Jai-Jacob Hoover, John Malay, James Lambert, Mahad Muhammad, George Palermo, Joseph Taylor, Joshua Kalada-Kania and Gunner Jankouskas. Fourth row: Mark Sitch, William Bower, Cole Wenner, MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood, MMI Board of Directors Vice Chairman and guest speaker John H. Hersker ‘76, MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, Jett Chen, Aaron Harman and Nicolo Cottone. Missing from the photo is Eric Degenhart.

MMI seniors named National Merit Commended Students Three MMI seniors were named Commended Students in the National Merit Scholarship Program for 2015.

Andrew Alday, Sarah Moyer and Jay Solgama received Letters of Commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955.

High school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT), which serves as an initial screen of approximately 1.5 million entrants each year, and by meeting published program entry and participation requirements. The student responses to items on the PSAT/NMSQT answer sheet that are specific to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation

program entry determine whether the individual meets the requirements to participate in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Of the 1.5 million entrants, some 50,000 with the highest PSAT/ NMSQT Selection Index scores (critical reading + mathematics + writing skills scores) qualify for recognition in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

MMI seniors, from left, Jay Solgama, Sarah Moyer and Andrew Alday were named National Merit Scholarship Program Commended Students.

In late September of 2015, more than two-thirds (about 34,000) of the approximately 50,000 high scorers on the PSAT/NMSQT received Letters of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding academic promise.

Although Commended Students do not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, some of these students do become candidates for Special Scholarships sponsored by corporations and businesses.

MMI receives grant for science equipment MMI has received a grant that will be used toward new equipment for the school’s science and technology department.

to help MMI students further their education and stimulate their growth in math and science. We hope grants like this guide more students to pursue a career in those fields.”

MMI was nominated for the MMI Head of School $1,000 ExxonMobil Thomas G. Hood said, Educational “We are grateful, once Alliance grant by again, for the support Liberty Petroleum we are receiving from Distributors of Liberty Petroleum New Milford.

Distributors. These The grant funds funds will allow us to are specifically purchase equipment MMI received a grant to use toward new equipment for the school’s science and technology department. designated for that will enhance Pictured are, from left: MMI senior Jonathan Stish, MMI Director of Advancement Kim McNulty, Liberty math or science students’ learning at Petroleum Distributors Vice President V.K. Singh ’04, MMI computer science and technology instructor Justin departments. MMI Vincent, MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood and MMI seniors Karalyn Sitch and Shaelyn Heft.

MMI.” plans to use the Liberty Petroleum grant money to Distributors and its purchase a form scanner for its new 3D printer and the associated affiliates are now involved in the operations of more than 22 software. retail travel centers, gas stations and quick-service restaurants.

ExxonMobil’s Educational Alliance Program awards millions of dollars in grants annually to schools to help enhance math and science education across the United States. Liberty Petroleum Distributors has been donating thousands of dollars to Northeastern Pennsylvania schools since 2007. In the fall of 2015, the company supported 14 schools with $11,000 from Educational Alliance funds.

V.K. Singh, a 2004 MMI graduate and vice president of operations for Liberty Petroleum Distributors, said, “Liberty Petroleum Distributors is proud to partner with ExxonMobil through the ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Grant Program

Today, Liberty Petroleum Distributors also provides travelers with comfortable and affordable hotel accommodations. On the petroleum end, the company provides retail and wholesale distribution of Exxon, Mobil and Sunoco branded petroleum products to transportation companies, travel plazas and gas stations.

Its retail services include operating numerous convenience stores, as well as Subway, Burger King and Tim Horton’s restaurants and tobacco stores throughout Pennsylvania. To learn more, visit www.liberty-petroleum.com.

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Mathematics and Science National Honor Societies MMI held an induction ceremony for new members of the Science National Honor Society and Mathematics National Honor Society. Students and the societies they joined are, first row, from left: Taylor Peluso, science and math; Lois Polashenski, science; Kayla Leonard, science and math; Megan Marchetti, science and math; Dana Carrato, science and math; Katherine Eschenbach, science; and Jessica Smith, science and math. Second row: Susan Moyer, MMI instructor; Samuel Sessock, science and math; Joshua Narrow, science and math; Erin Sari, science; Gabriella DeMelfi, science; Joey Kress, science; Allison McGeehan, science and math; Anirban Chowdhury, science and math; and Jonathan Smith, science and math.

Third row: Kisan Patel, science and math; Ali Aijaz, science and math; Nicholas Young, science and math; Kevin Cibak, science and math; Keenan Overa, science and math; and Niklas Byriel, science and math. Fourth row: MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, MMI instructor Michael Mele, MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood and MMI instructor Gerard Pierotti.

MMI Mock Trial competitors win four awards MMI students won four awards during the 29th annual Monroe County Invitational Mock Trial Tournament at East Stroudsburg High School recently.

Junior Allison McGeehan placed third out of 66 lawyers who performed at the event. Junior Erin Sari and sophomores Jakob Schwabe and George Palermo each competed for the first time and received outstanding witness awards.

Eleven teams from across Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania competed in the annual tournament which is sponsored by the Monroe County Bar Association. MMI’s two teams went to trial four times and represented both the prosecution and defense.

With strong advisers from their home schools, high school students participate as attorneys and witnesses, presenting the case before a panel of jurors and the presiding judge. This experience allows the students to interact with sitting judges and practicing attorneys, all volunteering their time.

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This year’s trial was for a fictional criminal case entitled “The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Blair Udet. Monroe State University’s security department received a report from Whitney Maddow, an on-call volunteer with MSU’s Women’s Center, concerning an alleged rape that occurred during a party at a campus fraternity house.

MSU’s security department interviewed

Four students from MMI’s Mock Trial team won individual awards and trophies in the Monroe County Invitational Mock Trial Tournament. From left are adviser Dennis Clarke and students Allison McGeehan, Erin Sari, George Palermo and Jakob Schwabe.

the alleged victim and Udet, as well as other witnesses at the party, and declined to press charges. However, an investigation was undertaken by the State Attorney General’s Office as a result of Monroe State University security’s refusal to file charges against Udet. Following a Grand Jury proceeding, Udet was indicted for rape and arrested.

Members of the mock trial teams played the roles of witnesses or attorneys for each trial. All witnesses had to undergo a direct examination from their own attorney and a cross examination from the opposing lawyer. Finally, each attorney had to complete two parts,

such as an opening statement, direct examination, cross examination or closing argument. Each team had to present the defense and commonwealth sides of the case to a jury made up of practicing attorneys.

Marc Lobitz, Joshua Narrow, Ali Aijaz, Garrett Kost, Kevin Cibak, Jonathan Smith, Elliot Blasko, Brian Payne, Lauren Herman, Jacob Weiksner and Alyssa Sweda also portrayed attorneys. John Malay, Hunter O’Clair, Evan Dryfoos, Mahad Muhammad, Andrew Decker, Morgan Long, Amanda Kalada-Kania, Anna Haber and Wesley Guarneri also acted as witnesses.

Class of 2018 donates paintings to LVH-Hazleton MMI’s Class of 2018 created four original abstract paintings and donated them to Lehigh Valley HospitalHazleton’s pediatric area as part of its series of community service class projects for the 20152016 school year.

The sophomores selected the project from a list of potential ideas after Class President Stephanie Zellner recalled how much comfort she received from viewing paintings in the hallways during two hospitalizations.

The class created the paintings by splattering The MMI Class of 2018 created four original abstract paintings and donated them to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton as acrylic paint across four part of its series of community service class projects for the 2015-2016 school year. Pictured are, first row, from left: Gerard Pierotti, class adviser; Julia Snyder; Gabriella Kupsho; Caelyn McGran, project co-head; and Grete DeAngelo, class adviser. canvases. They chose to Second row: Stephanie Zellner, class president; Cole Wenner, class vice president; and Hunter O’Clair, class treasurer. make abstract paintings so that each patient of crayons, seven stuffed animals, one to know what MMI and the class of could find something storage tote and four packs of socks.

2018 stand for, that is service to our different in the artwork that brightens community and all who live in it and to their day.

Zellner said, “We as a class would like make a positive influence in someone’s the children of our area, the community In addition to the paintings, the class life no matter how big or small.” and everyone who sees our artwork also donated 16 coloring books, 16 boxes

Harvest Dance royalty

Best of the Best MMI crowned Andrew Alday and Alyssa Famalette, both pictured first row center, its 2015 Harvest King and Queen during MMI’s annual Harvest Dance on November 7. Allison Warner-Senape, first row left, Shaelyn Heft, first row right, and Devon Faul, second row left, were the runners up. Also pictured are Parent Faculty Organization representative Natalie Kost and MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood.

MMI recognized six students as the “Best of the Best” for the fall semester during an assembly program held at the school. The overall Best of the Best honor for the first semester was awarded to senior Luke Yamulla for his presentation on presidential candidates. Winners are, first row, from left: Anna Haber, Catherine Havrilla and Grant Warren. Second row: Lauren Babinetz, Yamulla and Julia Snyder.

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MMI students held a graveside service in November to honor the school’s founder, Eckley Brinton Coxe, and his wife, Sophia Georgianna Coxe. Seniors, sixth-grade students, ninth-grade students, administration and faculty gathered for Founders’ Day on the grounds of St. James Episcopal Church in Drifton.

MMI holds annual Founder’s Day ceremony MMI students honored the school’s founders, Eckley Brinton Coxe, and his wife, Sophia Georgianna Coxe, during a graveside service on November 25, giving thanks for the Coxes’ contributions to the school and the area.

Seniors, ninth-grade students, sixthgrade students, administration and faculty gathered for Founders’ Day on the

grounds of St. James Episcopal Church in Drifton, where they held a wreathlaying ceremony at the gravesites of the Coxes, more than 120 years after Eckley Coxe’s death. Afterward, senior class officers presented a history of Coxe’s life, including the mining industry and the beginning days of the Mining and Mechanical Institute, the school

MMI’s young alumni returned to the school for the Founder’s Day celebration and spent some time reuniting with fellow MMI graduates, faculty and staff during a reception that was held in the Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center.

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he founded that is now known as MMI Preparatory School. They also spoke about Sophia Coxe’s contributions and generosity to the area.

Several MMI alumni returned to the area for the occasion and gathered at a reception in the school’s Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center.

MMI athletes receive WVC Coaches Association honors Several MMI athletes received postseason honors for their outstanding play during the fall 2015 sports season.

Seniors Alyssa Famalette, Mikayla Dove and Terrance Jankouskas and junior Keenan Overa were all selected to the Wyoming Valley Conference Soccer Coaches first team. Seniors Jay Solgama and Devon Faul and juniors Kevin Cibak and Dylan Slusser received WVC Soccer Coaches second team honors.

In girls’ volleyball, junior Dana Carrato and sophomore Gabriella Kupsho earned honorable mentions from the Wyoming Valley Conference Coaches Association.

Junior tennis player Elizabeth Pinto and sophomore golfer George Palermo were both Citizens’ Voice All-Star first team selections.

Several MMI athletes received postseason honors for their outstanding play during the fall 2015 sports season. Pictured are, first row, from left: George Palermo, Dana Carrato, Gabriella Kupsho, Alyssa Famalette, Elizabeth Pinto and Dylan Slusser. Second row: Terrance Jankouskas, Mikayla Dove, Devon Faul, Jay Solgama and Keenan Overa. Kevin Cibak was also honored for his performance.

Alumni calendar of events announced Many exciting events are planned at MMI for the upcoming months. Here are a few of them: Señor Dennis Clarke’s Farewell Alumni Tour!

MMI alumni and friends are invited to join us at a number of get-togethers with current faculty member Señor Dennis Clarke on his farewell tour before his spring retirement. Also visit with Head of School Thomas G. Hood and Director of Advancement Kim McNulty. The Hazleton Gathering is at Valley Country Club, while the other sites are to be determined. Dates and times are as follows: Ha zleton Mini-Reunion and Mid-Winter Social Friday, February 19 from 7-10 p.m.

W ashington DC Alumni Mini-Reunion Thursday, March 31 from 6-8 p.m.

Ne w York City Alumni Mini-Reunion Thursday, April 26 from 6-8 p.m.

Ph iladelphia Alumni Mini-Reunion Thursday,May 5 from 6-8 p.m.

The Head of School’s Donor Reception will be held Saturday, March 12, 2016 from 5-7 p.m. This special reception is by invitation only and precedes the MMI Prepper Playhouse’s performance of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.”

The MMI Parent Faculty Organization is sponsoring Springo! The event begins Friday, April 1 with a Trivia competition for students and their families. On Sunday, April 3, MMI will host a Bingo event that is open to the public from 1-5 p.m. It is a fun-filled family event featuring Bingo, international food, tricky trays, and a plant sale!

The world-famous Wister Quartet visits MMI for its annual concert on Monday, April 4 at 7 p.m., sponsored by Dr. James W. Feussner ’65, to play in a concert that is open to the public, all alumni and guests.

MMI’s annual Open House of student research and cooking projects will be held Sunday, April 17, from 2-4 p.m.

It is open for all alumni, friends, and parents to come and see!

All alumni are invited to return to MMI for our annual Commencement exercises on Thursday, May 19, at 7 p.m.!

Come and celebrate with the Class of 2016! Please RSVP to Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org if you plan to attend!

Señor Dennis Clarke’s Retirement Spectacular will be held Saturday, May 21 from 5-7 p.m. Come and join us for a cocktail party at MMI in honor of Señor Dennis Clarke’s Retirement! All alumni and friends are welcome, details to follow!

The Lehigh Valley Alumni Mini-Reunion is set for Thursday, June 2, from 6-8 p.m. Lehigh Valley alumni and friends are invited to join Head of School Tom Hood and Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at a get-together! Site is to be determined.

The 8th Annual Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament will be held Friday, June 17, at the Valley Country Club. Lunch starts at noon and tee-off is at 1 pm. We hope you can grab a foursome, throw in a sponsorship and join us for a fun day!

Homecoming 2016 will be held Friday and Saturday, September 16 and 17. In 2016, we will celebrate reunions with the graduating classes ending in -6 or -1! Homecoming weekend includes the Head of School’s Reception, the Homecoming Picnic, and the Wall of Fame Induction Dinner.

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Faces in the Crowd “Faces in the Crowd” is a feature of MMI Today that includes more information on MMI students and faculty members.

Through these articles, newsletter readers will have the opportunity to learn more about members of the MMI family. faculty advisers to the program.

• Art and anthropology instructor Lisa M. Ferry was one of only eight women who received the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Women’s Empowerment Grant during the Chamber’s 2015 Business and Community Awards ceremony. Ferry was also awarded a certificate of Senior student-athletes Brendan Drusda and Sarah special congressional Moyer were named the school’s winners for the prestigious Wendy’s High School Heisman Award which highlights recognition from exceptional high school seniors and their achievements in Congressman Lou the classroom, on the field and in the community.

Barletta in honor of her achievement.

The Women’s Empowerment Grant • MMI English instructor Jennifer was established to encourage women to Novotney was one of seven featured pursue training or education that will authors at the Pennsylvania Council help them start or advance their career. of Teachers of English Language Arts Ferry is currently pursuing her Master of annual conference in Harrisburg. The Art Education with Emphasis in Special authors were featured at an Author’s Populations from Moore College of Art Breakfast where Novotney read from her and Design. young adult book Winter in the Soul and talked about her inspiration for writing the book. She also participated in a book signing for two of her novels, Winter in the Soul and Infinite Spring. On the first day of the two-day conference, Novotney delivered a presentation entitled “Shared Writing Experiences: Building Community in a Diverse Classroom” to coincide with the conference’s theme, Embracing Diversity. She is the author of several books for young readers and was a 2014 recipient of the Moonbeam Children’s Book Award for her debut young adult novel, Winter in the Soul.

Infinite Spring, the sequel to her debut, was released in 2015.

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• Freshman Andrew Decker placed first at the school level Poetry Out Loud competition and represented MMI in the televised Poetry Out Loud Regional Competition on December 15 at the WVIA-TV studios in Pittston. At the regional competition Decker finished second. Juniors Gabriella DeMelfi and Erin Sari placed second and third at the school-level competition. Jennifer Novotney and Nancy Lotz serve as

• The MMI Student Council conducted two drives to collect canned goods, toiletries, and monetary donations to benefit the area needy. Following in the philanthropic traditions of school founders Eckley and Sophia Coxe, the students collected over 610 cans and $160 to benefit the Freeland Thanksgiving food drive. Students also collected 189 toiletry items to benefit the homeless population. Juniors Jacob Weiksner and Elizabeth Pinto were the student event coordinators. Michael Scarlato and Anthony Cusat serve as the Student Council Advisors.

• Students in MMI’s Interact Club made sure this winter will be a little brighter – and warmer – for area residents in need. Interact Club students donated a collection of mittens, scarves, and hats to the Salvation Army as part of the Club’s Mitten Tree Project. MMI students, faculty, and staff were encouraged to donate the items and place them on four trees in the school’s common area.Club President Katherine Eschenbach, Vice President Douglas Genetti, Secretary Erin Sari and Treasurer Ryan Eschenbach coordinated the effort.

They are all members of MMI’s junior class. The project’s faculty advisers are Michael Scarlato, Timothy Garvey, Katie Zucco and Susan Moyer.

Sophomore Angelica Alday played the violin at the PMEA District 9 Orchestra Festival from January 13-15 at North Pocono High School. She placed sixth in the first violin section and earned the privilege of advancing on to Regional Orchestra at Twin Valley High School late in February. This is only the second time that an MMI student has advanced past Districts onto Regionals. Senior Sarah Moyer played the flute at the District 9 Band Festival at Pittston Area High School.

Junior Joshua Narrow, left, and seniors Charles Bower and Lindsey Walko and captured first place at the Pennsylvania School Press Association regional journalism competition and will represent MMI Preparatory School at the state competition in March. At the state competition, Bower will compete in the artwork category, while Narrow will compete in the poetry category. Both Bower and Narrow have work published in the MMI Preparatory School Literary Magazine. Walko is the Yearbook Editor and the Production Editor for the literary magazine and will compete in the copywriting category. Jennifer Novotney, far left, serves as advisor for the MMI literary magazine and Grete DeAngelo, far right serves as the advisor for the yearbook. Both served as advisors for the competition.

Sophomores Lauren Babinetz and Caelyn McGran will represent MMI at the 2016 Central Pennsylvania Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) seminar held May 19-22 at Shippensburg University. HOBY hosts three- or four-day seminars across the country that focus on the theme “Empower. Lead. Excel” while encouraging the young leaders to display responsible citizenship, including community service and volunteerism.

MMI mid-school grandparents welcomed to campus

Mid-School Grandparents and Grandfriends Day was held on December 2 and MMI welcomed 120 visitors to the school that day.

Head of School Thomas G. Hood welcomed the crowd and everyone in attendance enjoyed a buffet lunch in the gymnasium followed by an afternoon in the classroom and at advisory.

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Alumni Notes

What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe Vanessa Baran ’78 was recently featured in an article highlighting her career as a producer and set stylist. She scouts filming locations and determines what will be part of the set. She also helps select cast members and recently had the opportunity to feature local Hazleton residents in a Japanese television commercial for MisterDonut. Baran had previously done Japanese spots with the late Ray Charles for Suntory Whiskey; Antonio Banderas for Subaru Forester; Winona Ryder for Caffe Latte, and Diane Lane for Hino Trucks. Baran’s work isn’t limited to television though.

She has completed print and online projects for clients including Allure, Vanity Fair, Harley Davidson, Marriott Courtyard, Calvin Klein Jeans, Samsung and dozens of others. She has produced television shows and managed studios and continues to research, write and edit for the New York Daily News, Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock and Roll, Harper’s Bazaar and others. She also frequently does lectures related to photography, design and style.

Alexander Drusda ’14 was named to the dean’s list for the fall 2015 semester at Temple University with a 4.0 gradepoint average. He is pursuing a dual degree in philosophy and English and is a member of the university’s honors program.

commencement address. After college, he worked for the offices of Vice President Joe Biden and United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. Makhija earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School on the Horace DeYoung Lentz Scholarship for Carbon County residents. Horace DeYoung Lentz was a Carbon County attorney and anthracite coal magnate who left behind his fortune to fund the education of any Carbon County resident accepted to Harvard. On October 28, 2015, Makhija was sworn-in to the Pennsylvania Bar Association

by Justice Correale F. Stevens of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.

Athena Smith Ford ’01, a seat-belted passenger in a single vehicle accident, suffered a traumatic brain injury on October 7, 2015. She now faces a very long and difficult road to recovery. Her family have had a number of fundraising events to help establish a special needs trust for her long-term care. To support their efforts, please visit www.gofundme.com/goathena. Her classmates and friends have organized a local fundraiser to support her and information on that can be found on MMI’s Facebook page.

Daniel Vaskalis ’07 was ordained to the priesthood on October 18 at St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church in Freeland. Bishop Gregory of Nyssa of the American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of the United States ordained Vaskalis, making him the fifth priest to come from the church in the past 76 years. The last priest who came from the same parish was ordained 50 years ago, according to pastor and MMI faculty member Rev. Lawrence Barriger.

Neil Makhija ’05 is running for a seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to serve Carbon County. Makhija earned his B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College, where he worked as a neuroscience and robotics researcher throughout his undergraduate career. Elected co-president of his class, he had the honor of delivering the 2009

Joseph Yamulla ’14 was named a Marshall Fellow at Franklin & Marshall College. This is a very selective process that recognizes students’ academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, potential as adventurous thinkers, and an ability to formulate and bring projects to fruition.

Michael Casari ’08 was admitted to the New Jersey and Pennsylvania Bars this winter.

Jacob Daniels ’11 was named to the dean’s list at Rochester Institute of Technology for the fall 2015 semester.

Daniels is a mechanical engineering major.

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Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto Jr. ’79 received the Delaware State Bar Association’s Daniel L. Herrmann Professional Conduct Award at a special luncheon ceremony at The Hotel DuPont in Wilmington, DE on December 10.

Named in honor of the late chief justice of the Delaware Supreme Court, the award goes to “a member of the Delaware Bar who, over the course of time, has demonstrated those qualities of courtesy and civility which, together with high ability and distinguished service, exemplifies the Delaware lawyer.” DiLiberto is a partner in the personal injury section of the law firm Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor and is also a member of the MMI Board of Directors.

Members of the Class of 2015 came back to MMI in early January to share their first semester of college experience with this year’s senior class. MMI’s College Admissions Counselor Stephanie Shandra coordinated the annual event.

Milestones Events in the lives of the MMI family Irene Gans passed away on January 17, 2016. She was preceded in death by her late husband, Joseph Gans. Irene is survived by her son, past MMI Board Member, Joseph Gans III and his wife, Patricia; and daughter, Janice Moisey and her husband, Robert; three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Linda Morse Gicking passed away on December 7, 2015. Linda is survived by her husband, Robert and two sons; MMI Board Member Jeffrey S. Gicking ’75 and John M. Gicking ’76 and his partner, Fred Doss.

In June 2015, Krystle Baker ’02 and Zachary Jones were married at a small ceremony on the beach in Amelia Island, Florida. Many MMI Preppers attended the wedding including siblings Mark Sitch ’18, Karalyn Sitch ’16, and Kaitlyn Sitch ’14 and friends Lee Ann Palubinsky ’02, Laura BoninWalters ’02, and Gregg Walters ’02.

Weddings Jennifer (Sacui) McDaniel ’03 graduated with a B.S. from Bloomsburg University in 2007 and with her J.D. from Texas A&M University School of Law this past December. It has been a busy year for Jenn as she also wed Erick McDaniel on May 30, 2015. She is currently a Portfolio Manager at Apex Capital Corp. and resides in Grand Prairie, TX.

Births Erin (Warner) Britt ’02 and James Britt recently welcomed their first child. Benjamin Warner Britt was born on November 9, 2015 in Pittsburgh, PA.

Deaths Mary Blase passed away on October 17, 2015. She is survived by her son Frederick Blase ’82 and his wife, Jeannine; and her grandchildren, Gina and Ricky.

Louise R. Cianci passed away on October 6, 2015. She is survived by her daughter, Lynn Gorski; her son, Leonard and 10 grandchildren including, Laura L. Satterfield ’06, David B. Satterfield ’08, Daniel Satterfield, Lindsay Gorski ’07, Jordan Gorski ’10, Matthew Gorski and Ryan Gorski.

Colonel Stanley A. D’Amore passed away on December 4, 2015.

He is survived by his surrogate son, Paul John Warner ’86.

James B. Evans passed away on December 21, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Mae; one son, Robert Evans and his wife, Holly; two daughters, Cheryl, wife of Charles Karchner, and Naomi Brown; and six grandchildren including Kayla Karchner ’13 and Charles Karchner ’14.

William Feaster ’48 passed away on June 4, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Joan.

Murray Feingold ’48 passed away on July 17, 2015. Dr. Feingold, a member of the 2007 MMI Wall of Fame for professional achievement, is survived by his wife, Lorinda; daughter Rachael Stein; son, Justin; son, Matthew and six grandchildren.

Aaron C. Goldman passed away on January 8, 2016. He is survived by his children, Richard Goldman ’68 and wife, Traci; Daniel Goldman ’72 and wife, Sharon; Mary Zubrow; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

John D. Herron passed away on November 23, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne; children; John P. Herron; Jennifer Gallagher and husband, Shawn; Jason Herron and wife, Michele; and eight grandchildren including McKenna Gallagher ’21.

Ronald J. Kalendowicz passed away on November 18, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Sharon; sons, Ronald Jr. and Jeffery; daughter, Kimberly; daughter, Stacy and her husband, Michael Herman and his granddaughter, Lauren Herman ’19.

John Lesho passed away on November 19, 2015. He is survived by son, John R. Lesho ’65 and wife, Sandra; daughter, Lee Ann Wagner and husband, John H.; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Nicholas J. Mistiszyn passed away on November 29, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Marianne; son, Nicholas A. Mistiszyn and wife, Jaqueline; daughter, Natalie A. Kost and husband, Joseph; and five grandchildren including Garrett Kost ’17.

Martin A. Mrozinski, former MMI athletic coach, passed away on November 23, 2015. Marty is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughters, Kelly Dixon and husband, Thomas; Salena Borsuk and husband, Michael; and Megan Boyd and husband, Scott; and eight grandchildren.

Helen D. Mussoline passed away on January 4, 2016. She is survived by her children, Neil Mussoline ’62 and wife, Jane; Carmen Mussoline and wife, Nancy; and Ann Cwalina and husband, Paul; five grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren.

Jean A. Smith passed away on December 8, 2015. She was predeceased by her son, Robert J. Smith ’70. She is survived by her husband, Robert A. Smith Jr.; her daughter, Barbara Franzosa and grandchildren including Gina Franzosa ’96 and Mary Franzosa Mosty ’98.

Albert G. Snyder ’43 passed away on November 26, 2015. He is survived by his brother, Donald E. Snyder ’50; sister, Carol Cipperly and husband, David; and nephew, Dale Cipperly.

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Memorials

Library Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between Oct. 15, 2015 and Feb. 1, 2016

In memory of Ed Abrams ’62 Mrs. Marlene Abrams In memory of Don Arbaugh Mr. Robert Kashubski ’67 and Mrs. Karen Kashubski Mr. Michael Czytinski and Ms. Sarah Kashubski-Czytinski ’06 In memory of Gemma and Andrew Arnoldi Mr. Andrew Arnoldi ’63 and Mrs. Judith Arnoldi In memory of Stanley F. Balon ’38 Mr. Frank D. Balon In honor of Kaitlyn Bellizia ’19 Ms. Helen Bellizia In memory of George Bereznak Mr. Joseph Bereznak ’54 and Mrs. Elissa Bereznak In memory of Louis and Alexandra Betley Mr. Gregory Betley ’70 and Mrs. Anne Marie Lesniak-Betley In memory of Jean Biros Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of Michael Bobby Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In honor of Denis Brenan ’55 Mr. Sean Brenan In memory of Kim Byriel Ms. Julia Byriel In memory of Ambabai and Mahadev Chikarmane Dr. Ajit Chikarmane and Dr. Kalpana Chikarmane In honor of Senor Dennis Clarke’s Final Year at MMI Miss Nina C. Dei Tos ’01 In memory of Thomas J. Conahan ’26 and Eugenia E. Conahan Dr. Thomas J. Conahan III ’59 and Mrs. Catherine Conahan In memory of Brinton Coxe Mrs. Brinton Coxe In memory of Colonel Stanley A. D’Amore Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood In memory of Edward Leon Deal ’42 Mr. and Mrs. Richard Frey In memory of Peter Donish Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Kushma II

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In memory of Peter Duda Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In memory of Albert Duna Jr. Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of James B. Evans Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood In memory of Murray Feingold Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood In memory of John J. Gabuzda ’77 Dr. Thomas Gabuzda ’47 and Mrs. Stella Gabuzda In memory of Irene Gans Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood In memory of Joseph Gans Sr. Mrs. Irene Gans In memory of Linda Morse Gicking Mr. Llewellyn Dryfoos III ’82 and Mrs. Maura Dryfoos Mr. and Mrs. William J. Flood Mrs. Irene Giuliani Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Mr. Brian Lucas ’84 and Mrs. Kathy Lucas The McNulty Family Mr. and Mrs. Joseph G. Rudawski Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis

In memory of John D. Herron Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood In memory of Catherine Hoch Mr. Jason Cabe and Mrs. Melissa Cabe ’96 In memory of Peter Holincheck Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In memory of John Hudock ’77 Mr. John Reilly ’77 and Mrs. Nora Reilly In memory of Andrew Hutnyan ’55 Reverend David M. Bobbey ’55 In memory of Ronald Kalendowicz Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood In memory of George J. Kostick Jr. ’64 Mrs. Ceil Kostick In memory of Trude Krauss Sparks The McNulty Family

In memory of Albert Goedecke ’45 Mr. Leo Ravina ’45 and Mrs. Cecelia Ravina

In memory of George Lucas Dr. Richard Bott ’79 and Mrs. Nadine Bott Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce The Dessen Family Atty. Richard DiLiberto Jr. ’79 and Atty. Faith DiLiberto Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey S. Drusda Mr. and Mrs. David C. Haupt Mrs. Maureen Serra Mr. Joseph Valkusky ’79 and Mrs. Gwen Valkusky

In memory of Aaron Goldman The Dei Tos Family Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood

In memory of Alvan Lynn ’55 Reverend David M. Bobbey ’55 Mrs. Patricia J. Lynn

In memory of Atty. Morton J. Gordon ’52 Mrs. Marilyn Gordon

In memory of Nicholas Martyak ’59 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph G. Rudawski

In memory of Scott Graham ’84 Mr. Rusty Cassway and Mrs. Karen Cassway ’84 Dr. Bruce Klugherz and Dr. Michelle Ecker ’84 Mr. Tomer Gutterman and Atty. Tara E. Gutterman Esq. ’84 Mr. Barton Hanline and Mrs. Lisa Hanline ’84 Mr. Brian Lucas ’84 and Mrs. Kathy Lucas Mr. Jason Sebelin ’84 and Mrs. Amy Sebelin Mr. Mike Shastay and Mrs. Ann Shastay ’84 Atty. Rebecca L. Warren Esq. ’84

In memory of Catherine Matz Dr. John Amentler ’67 and Mrs. Kristine Amentler Mr. Dan Ravina

In memory of Peter D. Gross Mr. Nicholas Ague and Mrs. Dorothy Ague ’94

In memory of Nicholas Mistiszyn Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood

In memory of David Gundling ’68 Mrs. Judy Gundling Dr. Robert E. Gundling ’70 Dr. Fredrick Sherman ’63 and Ms. Patricia Rowe

In memory of Martin A. Mrozinski Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Hood

In memory of Henry Giuliani Mr. and Mrs. Joseph G. Rudawski

In memory of Walter D. Haentjens ’39 Ms. Grete H. DeAngelo ’92 Mr. Gavin P. Haentjens ’94 and Ms. Maggie Slye Mrs. Margaret Stone

In memory of Thomas Merrick ’51 Mr. Edward R. Merrick ’54 In memory of George Miglas ’37 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Merenich

In memory of Mary and Rudolph Mucha Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha In memory of Nicholas Nemesh Mr. John J. Corrigan ’63 In memory of Martin J. O’Donnell ’37 Mrs. Agnes O’Donnell

Guest chef Curt Lindquist provides students taste of California food comes from, flavors, cultures and culinary traditions while keeping focused on sustainability, scratch cooking and recycling.”

The guest chef program at MMI strives to give students the opportunity to try new things.

MMI students had the chance to experience the flavors of Southern California as it continued the annual program.

The guest chef program began last school year and is part of a threeyear plan undertaken by MMI to provide preferable food to the student body and staff in a more sustainable manner.

MMI welcomed guest chef Curt Lindquist of The Meating House in the continuation of a three-year plan undertaken by the school to provide preferable food to the student body and staff in a more sustainable manner. Pictured are, from left: Ryan Jastremsky, MMI business manager; Lindquist; Teresa Kairewich, MMI chef; and Erica Yanac and Marianne Gera, MMI cafeteria staff members.

Curt Lindquist, chef of The Meating House in Drums, visited MMI to give students a taste of some culinary trends from the Southern California region. The students were treated to Baja fish tacos, featuring a lightly breaded fish filet with honey lime cilantro dressed slaw on a warm flour tortilla; sidewinder, wide-

cut, curly French fries and SoCal white chicken chili. A topping table including sour cream, salsa and sliced green onions was also set up in the café.

MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood said, “The guest chef program allows us to utilize the culinary talents of different people so that students learn about where

Lindquist is a Cornell University graduate and spent a number of years in the corporate hospitality industry. He and his wife, Cheryl, a Beaver Meadows native, operated a meat business for 17 years before opening The Meating House, where they’ve been co-proprietors for 14 years.

Lindquist believes in making food from scratch so it’s more sustainable and tasty. He feels students should be exposed to many different flavors and food ideas through school lunch programs and said that using fresh food helps students understand what they’re eating.

Additional memorials (Continued from page 14) In memory of Charles Reczkowski Mr. and Mrs. Emmett Thomas In memory of Karen M. Riley Mr. E. Edward Riley ’61 In honor of Joseph G. Rudawski Dr. Richard Bott ’79 and Mrs. Nadine Bott

In memory of Marion Stortz Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis

In honor of Daniel Vaskalis ’07 Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis

In memory of Millie and Harold Sugarman Mr. Scott J. Sugarman ’73

In memory of Aspacia and Todor Vasileff Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha

In memory of Emil Salnicky Mr. David Bogansky

In memory of Joseph K. Tito ’92 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Sisack

In memory of Philip Saullo Mr. Nicholas Saullo ’58 and Mrs. Kathleen Saullo

In memory of Camille Turri Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In memory of Carol Searfoss Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In memory of Joseph Turri ’45 Mr. Leo Ravina ’45 and Mrs. Cecelia Ravina

In memory of Bernadette Senape Atty. Michael Senape ’92 and Atty. Kimberly Kostun In memory of John B. Sessock Jr. Ms. Anna Marie Kondash In memory of Jean Smith The Dei Tos Family In memory of Martin R. Stefanik ’58 Mrs. Judith A. Stefanik In memory of Genevieve K. Straw Colonel Andrew Straw ’75 and Mrs. Anita Straw

In memory of Ronald J. Turri ’62 Mr. Robert Turri ’60 and Mrs. Marie Turri In memory of Charles H. Tyson ’47 Mrs. Paulina Tyson In memory of Mary Jane Urenovitch Reverend David M. Bobbey ’55 Dr. Joseph V. Urenovitch ’55 In memory of William Urosevich ’72 Atty. Richard DiLiberto Jr. ’79 and Atty. Faith DiLiberto

In memory of Dr. David Wagner Dr. Fredrick Sherman ’63 and Ms. Patricia Rowe Atty. David Stern and Mrs. Barbara Wagner ’79 In memory of Edith Wagner Mr. Jason Lenko and Dr. Jodi W. Lenko ’99 In memory of James C. Warner ’54 Mr. and Mrs. Lars Severin In memory of Peter Washinsky Sr. Dr. and Mrs. Michael A. Washinsky Sr. In memory of Michael J. Wassel ’51 Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Boyle In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Williams Mr. Robert Klotz ’58 and Mrs. Carol Klotz In memory of Dr. David Yakacki ’69 Mrs. Elenora Duerr Mrs. Linda Yakacki In memory of Sarah Jane Yuscavage ’04 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Yuscavage

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Perfect Piñatas

Julia Snyder, right, won MMI’s annual Spanish 2 Piñata contest. Also pictured are, from left, Angelica Alday, third place; Caelyn McGran, second place; and Señor Dennis Clarke.

Important Dates Prepper Playhouse “Beauty & the Beast” . . . . . . March 11-12 Springo Trivia Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 1 Springo Bingo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 3 Open House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 17 Prep School Awards Convocation . . . . . . . . . . . . May 10

Baccalaureate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 17 Commencement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19 Señor Dennis Clarke’s Retirement Spectacular. . May 21 Eighth Grade Moving Up Ceremony. . . . . . . . . . May 27 Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament. . . . . June 17