Issuu

i nt e r

2 017

A new era begins

D. Scott Wiggins appointed permanent Head of School

D. Scott Wiggins, who has served as Interim Head of School at MMI since July of 2016, was appointed as the school’s permanent Head of School by the MMI Board of Directors in February. Wiggins had been serving as Interim Head of School since former Head of School Thomas G. Hood stepped down to become Head of School at St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School in Tennessee. At the direction of the Board of Directors, a search committee comprised of six current and former members of the board of directors, four of them having served as chairs of the board and all of them having graduated from MMI, managed the national search that resulted both in Wiggins’ appointment as Interim Head of School, and his eventual D. Scott Wiggins addresses the crowd at last year’s Homecoming festivities. Wiggins appointment as permanent Head of School. was officially announced as permanent Head of School on February 3.

“We are very pleased to have Mr. Wiggins as our permanent Head of School. Mr. Wiggins is a highly accomplished educator with an extensive background in independent schools. In his time as Interim Head of School he has embraced MMI’s long tradition of academic excellence and individualized attention to students. We believe that he is the right person to maintain and build on MMI’s high standards, and we were delighted when he came forward as a candidate for the position of permanent Head of School,” said MMI Board Chairman Stanley B. Warner III ’92, who also served on the search committee.

Wiggins said he accepted the permanent Head of School position with the“utmost gratitude and admiration for all that MMI has accomplished throughout the years.”

h e

Following his appointment, Wiggins said, “When I accepted the Interim Head of School position, it was with a one or two year window in mind. But, in the time I have been here, I have fallen in

e w s l e tt e r

o f

love with the school and the MMI community, which powered my desire to be considered for the permanent position. I am humbled to have been chosen to continue to lead the MMI community into the future as the new permanent Head of School and I welcome the opportunity with open arms.” As part of the search process, the search committee solicited input from various school constituencies on the choice of the next permanent Head of School. An advisory committee made up of faculty, administrators, parents, and students interviewed Mr. Wiggins, who also met separately with other groups of teachers, administrators and students. The search committee incorporated feedback from these groups in its final report to the Board of Directors, along with its recommendation that Mr. Wiggins be appointed. The search committee was chaired by MMI Board Vice Chairman John H. Hersker ’76. “The Search Committee considered a number of highly qualified external candidates for the permanent Head of School position. At the same time, we became increasingly aware of the positive impact Mr. Wiggins was having as Interim Head of School and we realized the best person to lead MMI forward was the man who was already doing the job. Once Mr. Wiggins expressed his desire to become the permanent Head of School, he became the obvious choice,” Hersker said. In addition to Hersker and Warner, the search committee included Andrea A. Kosko ’74, Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III ’82, Brian G. Lucas ’84, and Atty. Rebecca L. Warren ’84. Continued on page 3

MMI

r e p a r a t o r y

c h o o l

From the Head of School I want to welcome you to my first edition of MMI Today as the new permanent Head of School. To say that I am tickled to be leading MMI would be an understatement. When I began as Interim Head last summer, I had no idea how much this place would grow on me and reel me in. I count myself fortunate that it has done so completely! As I pursued my candidacy for the permanent Head of School position, I was frequently asked about my vision for MMI. My answer always began with this: “I want MMI to be known as the beacon of educational excellence in the Northeastern Pennsylvania region.” This starter was greeted by various responses that ranged from “aren’t we already,” to “what do you mean?”, to “we’re glad you recognize that the school can be better.” Existing as it does, as an independent school free from government imposition of curriculum, program, and high-stakes testing, MMI has the freedom to pursue best practices in pedagogy and teaching that stretch our students and help them become owners of their own academic successes. Learning is not a static enterprise and while it is true that “tried and true” methodologies can co-exist alongside “innovative and imaginative” ones, I believe the most inspired learning follows passion. Inspired learning is brought to life when bright, curious students intersect with learned and creative educators who ignite intellectual flames that beckon examination, inquiry, and critical problem solving. I have been impressed during my short time here with the qualities of heart and mind that characterize our students and our faculty and staff. Above all else, MMI is a place of “People” – a place where connections and relationships are the currencies of citizenship, community pride, mutual support, and school spirit. In these areas we shine bright and we shine together. MMI must also exist as a place of extraordinary academic pursuit and challenge. As such, MMI cannot afford to rest on its academic laurels if we are to continue to attract top caliber students and faculty from our area. We need to support, challenge, and inspire our teachers to become the very best that they can be. From this vantage point, MMI must maintain a lofty trajectory to impart our brand of academic excellence to the MMI students of today and those of tomorrow. Anything less would fall short of fulfilling the promise of the MMI Experience. I personally feel that the MMI of today has a tremendously sturdy academic foundation that serves as a fertile launching point for innovative academic programs that are second to none. Take this year’s Marine Biology and Robotics courses, for example, where the curricula merged interdisciplinary on a daily basis, culminating in a project to construct and successfully operate underwater robots. The cross-pollination of ideas and concepts that spilled forth from this collaborative far exceeded the sum of individual parts. Indeed, it is through stretches like these that MMI can, and will, continue to distinguish itself as an incubator of academic excellence and a producer of the leaders of tomorrow. I look forward to seeing all that we can do together.

D. Scott Wiggins Head of School

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

D. Scott Wiggins – 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

A new era begins (Continued from page 1) Before coming to MMI, Wiggins served as Head of School at Manlius Pebble Hill School in Syracuse, New York. He also served as Head of School at Lawrence Academy in Groton, Massachusetts, and held both administrative and teaching positions including roles in admissions and financial aid, Director of Athletics, Dean of Students, and Principal at several other schools. Wiggins also coached several sports at the schools where he worked. He holds a B.A. in chemistry from Boston University and a J.D. from the College of Law at Arizona State University. Wiggins has 30 years of experience in independent schools, both as a teacher and as an administrator. He left independent education temporarily in the late 1980s to obtain a law degree and for four years served as an Assistant District Attorney for Chester County in West Chester, Pennsylvania. In 2011, Wiggins authored a chapter in “The Head’s Handbook, A Guide for Aspiring, New, and Experienced Heads of School” that was published by the National Association of Independent Schools. Wiggins and his wife, Susan, are the parents of twin daughters, Cayce and Alexis, who are attending college. The couple reside at the Head of School’s house on the MMI campus.

Retired Major General Peter Bayer ’80, to give Founder’s Day Address operational and strategic levels and spent the majority of his career in operations and training with duty in multiple armor and cavalry units, including four post 9/11 operational and combat tours in Kuwait and Iraq. In addition to his work at the Pentagon as a Major General, Mr. Bayer served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Policy, Headquarters Supreme Allied Command Peter Bayer ’80 Transformation, NATO.

Peter Bayer ’80, a retired United States Army Major General and former Director of Strategy, Plans and Policy on the Army staff at the Pentagon, will give the Founder’s Day Address at Commencement on May 25. Mr. Bayer is the Area Vice President, Northeast for Penske Logistics where he leads a team of over 1,900 associates providing world class transportation and warehouse management logistics support to 37 diverse customers nationwide.

Prior to joining Penske, he proudly served for over 29 years as a soldier in the United States Army in a variety of command and staff positions in the United States, Germany and the Middle East. He has extensive leadership experience at the tactical,

Mr. Bayer is a 1984 graduate of Lehigh University with an M.S. in Marketing and earned a Masters in Security Studies from the U.S. Army War College in 2004. He and his wife, Lhoryn, have two adult children, Katie and Ross, and currently reside in Lancaster.

Warner: Wiggins is the ideal candidate to lead MMI Dear MMI Community,

I am pleased to announce that in February the Board of Directors appointed D. Scott Wiggins as the permanent Head of School. For nearly a year, the Head of School Search Committee led an intensive national search for a permanent Head of School and was pleased when Mr. Wiggins announced his decision to explore the opportunity on a long-term basis.

its recommendation that Mr. Wiggins be appointed permanent Head of School. The full Board of Directors met with Mr. Wiggins to discuss his candidacy and during the deliberations that followed, voted to name him permanent Head of School.

In previous communication, I discussed the roles of the Head of School Search Committee and Advisory Committee. The Search After carefully vetting select Committee was chaired by candidates, the Search Committee John H. Hersker ’76 and presented Mr. Wiggins as a finalist included Andrea A. Kosko for the position to the Advisory ’74, Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III Committee and faculty/staff ’82, Brian G. Lucas ’84, on February 1. The Search Stanley B. Warner III ’92 Atty. Rebecca L. Warren Committee met afterwards ’84 and myself. The Advisory Committee with those who had interviewed was comprised of students, faculty, staff Mr. Wiggins, and incorporated their and parents. I congratulate the Search feedback into its report to the Board of Committee, the Advisory Committee Directors the following day, along with and the faculty/staff at MMI for all of the

hard work and effort put forward during the search process. Mr. Wiggins’ more than 30 years of education experience, specifically in independent schools, as well as the work he has done to date at MMI, make him the ideal candidate to continue to lead our school community into the future. I hope that you will join me and the Board of Directors in continuing to make him feel welcome to the MMI family. Should you have questions about the search process or about this appointment, please feel free to contact me at stanleywarner@epix.net.

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

Sophomore Andrew Decker represented MMI at Poetry Out Loud state competition in Harrisburg Sophomore Andrew Decker captured the regional Poetry Out Loud competition against students from parts of six counties and advanced to the state finals in Harrisburg, where he finished in the top five. Decker won MMI’s in-school Poetry Out Loud competition for the second consecutive year and represented the school in the regional competition, which was held last December at the WVIA-TV studios in Pittston. Jennifer Novotney, MMI English instructor and Poetry Out Loud adviser, said, “Andrew did a fantastic job and we are all very proud of him. It was an honor to have him represent MMI Preparatory School at the state finals.” Senior Gabriella DeMelfi placed second in MMI’s school competition and junior Chava Kornblatt finished third. Novotney, Katherine Zucco and Madison Below served as judges for the school contest. During the regional competition, students had to recite two poems each and the top three recited a third poem to determine the winner. The local regional event featured students from

Andrew Decker, second from left, captured the regional Poetry Out Loud competition and represented MMI at the state finals in Harrisburg. Gabriella DeMelfi, far left, finished second in MMI’s in-school competition and Chava Kornblatt, third from left, placed third. Also pictured is Jennifer Novotney, MMI’s Poetry Out Loud adviser.

Luzerne, Lackawanna, northwestern Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and eastern Wyoming counties and was under the direction of Arts in Education of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit 19. The regional competition will be televised in April on WVIA-TV in recognition of National Poetry Month. Poetry Out Loud encourages students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. This program helps students master public

speaking skills, build self-confidence and learn about literary history and contemporary life. The competition is part of the coupling of the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation with U.S. state arts agencies. Since 2005, Poetry Out Loud has grown to reach more than 3 million students and 50,000 teachers from 10,000 schools in every state, Washington, D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Four students qualify for 2016-17 State Journalism Contest Four MMI students qualified to compete in the Pennsylvania School Press Association 2016-17 State Journalism Contest during a regional competition at Penn State University’s Berks Campus.

Literary Magazine Poetry competition, students had to write an original poem for a literary magazine using the theme and length given, as well as title the poem and clearly indicate lines through identification and the use of margins.

Students had Seniors Joshua to exhibit an Narrow and Danielle understanding of Pileggi, and juniors MMI students, from left, Chava Kornblatt, Joshua Narrow, Julia Snyder and Danielle poetry, its conventions, Julia Snyder and Pileggi qualified to compete in the Pennsylvania School Press Association 2016punctuation and Chava Kornblatt 17 State Journalism Contest. Pictured at center is Jennifer Novotney, MMI English potential to create a earned the right instructor and contest adviser. setting, convey a tone, to travel to Penn connect to feelings and State’s University Yearbook Caption Writing category. to delve beyond the surface. Park campus on March 29 to vie for the In the Literary Magazine Art state championship in their respective In the Yearbook Caption Writing category at the regional competition, categories. category, students had to write a caption students were given a poem written for five pictures that were provided. The Danielle Pileggi and Julia Snyder by a professional poet. After reading captions had to tell a complete story and both qualified in the Literary Magazine the poem, the students had to create Art category, Joshua Narrow qualified in have a minimum length of two complete a drawing that was relevant to the sentences. the Literary Magazine Poetry category poem and that would accompany the and Chava Kornblatt qualified in the poem in the literary magazine. For the

Five seniors gain National Merit Scholarship recognition application including information on their academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, Ali Aijaz, Anirban and honors and Chowdhury, Allison awards received. The McGeehan and Nicholas student must have an Young were among a outstanding academic national field of just 16,000 record throughout high students to be named school, be endorsed and MMI seniors, from left, Samuel Sessock, Allison McGeehan, Ali Aijaz, Semifinalists. They were recommended by a high Anirban Chowdhury and Nicholas Young received Semifinalist and later named National Merit Commended Student recognition in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship school official, write an Scholarship Finalists. Samuel Program. essay and earn SAT scores Sessock was among only that confirm the student’s 34,000 individuals who were earlier performance on and commend these students for their selected as Commended the qualifying test. About 90 percent of hard work throughout their high school Students in the 62nd annual National the Semifinalists attain Finalist standing careers,” said MMI College Admissions Merit Scholarship Program. and about half of the Finalists will win a Counselor Stephanie Shandra Sweitnicki. “We’re very proud to have five National Merit Scholarship, earning the To become a Finalist, Semifinalists outstanding seniors recognized by the Merit Scholar title. submitted a detailed scholarship National Merit Scholarship program Five MMI seniors were recognized as Finalists, Semifinalists or Commended Students in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program.

MMI students qualify for FBLA PA State Leadership Conference Forty-seven of MMI’s 76 entrants in ninth through 12th grades qualified to attend the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference, which will be held from April 2-5 in Hershey. MMI students qualified for the state conference in 26 different individual and team competitive events during a regional competition at the Woodlands in Wilkes-Barre.

MMI’s FBLA state qualifiers are, first row, from left: Mahum Ahmed, Jessica Smith, Anna Haber, Elizabeth Borchick, Sydney Karpowich, Abigail Paul, Talia Logerfo and Kaitlyn Bellizia. Second row: Stephanie Zellner, Joey Kress, Kelisa Hysenbegasi, Julia Snyder, Allison McGeehan, Kaitlyn McGeehan, Alyssa Sweda, Skyler Stabin and Ayla Cooper. Third row: Nicholas Young, Zachary Young, Jonathan Smith, Jonathan DeBellis, Alexander Jordan, Harrison Kress, Andrew Decker, Elliot Blasko and Tyler Degenhart. Fourth row: Marcus Kassick, George Palermo, Douglas Genetti, Kisan Patel, Evan Dryfoos, Brian Payne, Wesley Guarneri, Coleman Smith, and Alexander Kline. Fifth row: Eric Degenhart, Jakob Schwabe, Dillon Merenich, Lucas Smith, Kevin Cibak, Nicholas Carrato, Morgan Long, Garrett Kost, Marc Lobitz and James Lambert. Missing from photo: Adam Tron, Chava Kornblatt and club adviser Katherine Zucco.

MMI alumni asked to share opinions through survey As an MMI alum, you have a unique perspective on our community, programs and traditions. Help us shape our alumni programming by telling us more about your interests and what you would most like to see at MMI for our alumni. Please take a few minutes and complete our Alumni Engagement Survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BVH2R6R. Feel free to share the link with other MMI alumni you might be in contact with! This survey will close on March 24.

Alumni Survey

Mock Trial team competes in District 2 finals The Mock Trial team advanced to the District 2 Championships following semifinal wins by its defense and prosecution units. Seniors Garrett Kost, Joshua Narrow, Erin Sari and Jonathan Smith, and juniors Marc Lobitz, John Malay and Hunter O’Clair were all members of MMI’s winning defense team. Seniors Ali Aijaz, Kevin Cibak, Evan Dryfoos and Jonathan Smith and juniors Merci Centrella and Mahad Muhammad and sophomore Andrew Decker were members of the winning prosecution team. D. Scott Wiggins, MMI Head of School and Mock Trial adviser, said, “The performance of our student attorneys and witnesses was extraordinary. The magnitude of time and investment it takes to prepare oneself and carry forth in a courtroom in front of real judges and attorney juries is immense. While the teams did not prevail in the District 2 Championship round, I’m proud of how these 13 students performed and represented MMI during the competition.” Pennsylvania’s Mock Trial program, now in its 34th year, is one of the largest in the nation. The statewide Mock Trial Competition is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Association Young Lawyers Division. MMI competes in Region 5 and its district is comprised of schools from throughout Luzerne and Schuylkill counties.

The Mock Trial team advanced to the District 2 Championships following semifinal wins by its defense and prosecution units. Pictured are, first row, from left: Merci Centrella, Jonathan Smith and Erin Sari. Second row: Andrew Decker, Joshua Narrow, MMI Head of School and Mock Trial adviser D. Scott Wiggins, Marc Lobitz, Mahad Muhammad, Ali Aijaz, Kevin Cibak, Evan Dryfoos, John Malay and Garrett Kost. Seated at center is Judge Tina Polachek Gartley.

Each team competes in a real courtroom before an actual judge. The students, who play the roles of lawyers, witnesses, plaintiffs and defendants, are assisted by teacher coaches and lawyer advisers in preparing for competition. Lawyers and community leaders serve as jurors for the mock trials. MMI’s Jonathan Smith played the vital role of timekeeper for the prosecution and defense units – a key post given that strict time limits are imposed by competition rules. This year’s hypothetical case was a criminal trial to determine whether the defendant was guilty of committing an act of arson that destroyed an advanced automotive plant. During the competition, each side presented an opening statement, which informed the judge and jury of the relevant facts, as well as how its theory

of the case would be proven. Next, each witness was examined for the facts and knowledge he or she could bring to the case. After the plaintiff/prosecution’s three witnesses testified, one of the defense attorneys questioned his or her first witness in a direct examination. The plaintiff/prosecution’s attorney then had the opportunity to cross-examine. The same procedure was used for the defense’s second and third witnesses. Finally, the attorneys presented their closing statements, which gave a summation of the theory of the case and the recovery requested. The jury determined the winners in each trial based on the teams’ abilities to prepare their cases, present arguments and follow court rules.

MMI inducts 43 new National Honor Society members

MMI recently inducted 43 new members of the Andrew J. Stofan Chapter of the National Honor Society during a ceremony at the school. Pictured are, first row, from left: Jaclyn Braunstein, Catherine Matyas, Kaitlyn McGeehan, Ariah Saeed, Christine Park, Bailey Slusser, Lauren Matyas, Alyssa Sweda, Lauren Herman and Amanda Kalada-Kania. Second row: Jacob Schwabe, Benjamin Lloyd, Heaven Merenich, Kelisa Hysenbegasi, Mahum Ahmed, Summer Evancho, Madeline Dryfoos, Jessica McClellan, Kaitlyn Bellizia, Elizabeth Borchick, Julia Jenigen, Donna Titus and Katherine Zucco. Third row: Morgan Long, Coleman Smith, Keefer Hoover, Nicholas Carrato, Alexander Sessock, Zachary Young, Emily Mundorf, Elise Hreha, Tessa Peluso, Desiree Petrick, Ethan Warner and Captain Charles Stoffa ‘88. Fourth row: D. Scott Wiggins, Tyler Degenhart, Matthew Marchetti, Alexander Kline, Frederick Mejia, Elliot Blasko, Justin Weiksner, Andrew Decker, Wesley Guarneri and Daniel DeMelfi.

FNCB contributes $1,000 to EITC scholarship program and Economic Development.Businesses that donate to MMI are eligible to receive tax credits amounting to 75 percent of their charitable contribution for a one-year period. The tax credit increases to 90 percent if the MMI Director of company commits Advancement Kim to making the same McNulty said, “On donations for two behalf of everyone consecutive years. A at MMI, I’d like to business paying taxes thank FNCB for their in Pennsylvania can generous contribution. receive up to $300,000 MMI students have in tax credits annually. received more than Frank Kost, center, a 2002 MMI graduate, returned to MMI on behalf of FNCB Donations of any $3 million in direct to make a contribution to the school’s Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. Kost is assistant vice president, applications service analyst for FNCB. Also amount are eligible scholarships thanks pictured are, from left, MMI Director of Advancement Kim McNulty and MMI Head for the tax credit. to the contributions of School D. Scott Wiggins. Pennsylvania is one from companies like of only a few states in FNCB since our EITC dollars to local scholarship organizations the nation that offers the EITC program, program’s inception in 2005. When you through the EITC program. We are proud which gives tax credits to eligible contribute to MMI through the EITC to help many deserving families attend businesses contributing to a scholarship program, your gift directly supports schools such as MMI.” organization. funding for children in need to attend As an approved scholarship For more information about the EITC our school.” organization, MMI is designated to program, contact Kim McNulty at 570FNCB Assistant Vice President Mike receive contributions through the EITC 636-1108 or kmcnulty@mmiprep.org. Cummings said, “Since 2010, FNCB program, which is administered by the has contributed almost $1.2 million Pennsylvania Department of Community MMI received a $1,000 contribution from FNCB through the Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program to go toward needbased scholarships at the school.

Mathematics and Science National Honor Societies At left, MMI inducted 16 new members into the Mathematics National Honor Society during a ceremony at the school. Pictured are, first row, from left: Gabriella Kupsho, Angelica Alday, Sydney Karpowich, Katherine Eschenbach, Lauren Babinetz, Chava Kornblatt, and Caitlyn Kline. Second row: Cole Wenner, David Caldwell, George Palermo, John Malay, Marc Lobitz, Mahad Muhammad, and MMI National Math Honor Society Advisors Susan Moyer and Gerald Pierotti. Third row: guest speaker William Van Horn ’98, Mark Sitch, Aaron Harman, MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel, and MMI Head of School D. Scott Wiggins. Joshua Kalada-Kania was also inducted into the Mathematics National Honor Society. At right, MMI inducted 23 new members into the Science National Honor Society during a ceremony at the school. Pictured are, first row, from left: David Caldwell, Angelica Alday, Sydney Karpowich, Lauren Babinetz, Chava Kornblatt, Caitlyn Kline, and John Malay. Second row: George Palermo, Olivia Minzola, Caelyn McGran, Abigail Paul, Julia Snyder, Gabriella Kupsho, Catherine Matyas, and Michael Badamo. Third row: Garrett Kost, Eric Degenhart, Cole Wenner, Aaron Harman, Mahad Muhammad, and Daniel Tron. Fourth row: MMI National Science Honor Society Advisor Michael Mele, guest speaker William Van Horn ’98, MMI Head of School D. Scott Wiggins, and MMI Assistant Head of School Charles Seidel. Joshua Kalada-Kania and Kyle Falatko were also inducted into the Science National Honor Society.

MMI receives $500 ExxonMobil grant for marine biology and robotics classes Liberty Petroleum Distributors, visited MMI to present the grant money to the school. This marks the third consecutive year that MMI MMI was received this grant nominated for to add upgrades the ExxonMobil to its science Educational and technology Alliance grant by departments. Liberty Petroleum MMI received a $500 ExxonMobil Educational Alliance grant from Liberty Petroleum Distributors for use in its “Liberty Distributors of New science and technology departments. Pictured during the check presentation are, from left: Kim McNulty, MMI Petroleum Milford. The grant Director of Advancement; VK Singh ’04, Vice President of operations for Liberty Petroleum Distributors; D. Scott funds are specifically Wiggins, MMI Head of School; Charles Seidel, MMI Assistant Head of School; and Michael Mele, MMI Science Distributors is proud to partner Instructor. designated for with ExxonMobil math or science appreciative of the support for this cross to provide this grant to MMI’s science departments. MMI plans to use the grant curriculum project and for the dedication and technology department,” Singh money to fund a collaborative project of our alumni and the organizations they said. “On behalf of everyone at Liberty between the Marine Biology and Robotics represent in helping MMI continue to Petroleum Distributors, we are honored classes where students are working provide a strong academic program in to play a role in creating the scientists toward building Remotely Operated both science and technology.” of tomorrow through the ExxonMobil Underwater Vehicles (ROVs). V.K. Singh, a 2004 MMI graduate Educational Alliance grant program.” Michael Mele, MMI Science and vice president of operations for Department Chair said, “We are so MMI received a $500 grant through the ExxonMobil Foundation that it will use toward its science and technology departments.

Donors contribute to science department The MMI Science Department was able to add a number of exciting pieces of laboratory equipment this past fall through the generosity of a number of our donors. Current parents Bhaskar and Dr. Saumitri Chowdhury and alum Mr. Raymond Turri ’67 and his wife, Donna, donated the funds to purchase three new microscopes to be used across the curriculum in the Biology Lab.

Science Department Chair and Biology Instructor Michael Mele stated “It is terrific to teach in an environment where students are set-up for success in the classroom by parents, past parents and alumni. Our donors can rest assured that we will certainly put their generous gifts to great use and will continue the excellence that is expected from MMI.”

Alum Dr. Cory Coll ‘60 and his wife, Anne; past board member and parent Mrs. Mary Ann Kierans, and President Emeritus Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and his wife, Miki, all made donations

towards equipment purchases to be used in the Chemistry Lab. The items that were funded include two SpectroVis Plus spectrophotometers, two SpectroVis Optical Fibers and a Melt Station that will work with our LabQuest interfaces. Chemistry instructor Todd Ronco commented “The SpectroVis Plus and Optical fiber equipment now allow students to do full visible spectrum

analysis on an unknown sample. They can determine concentration and concentration changes over time as well as construct standardization curves. The Vernier Melt Station allows us to test up to three samples simultaneously with a digital temperature display and a secure enclosed heating element. It is a real upgrade from the previous melt station we had which was prone to errors and had an open heating element design. We have very recently put the new instruments to use in AP Chemistry curriculum to create a Beers Law plot and determine the concentration of copper in a brass sample.” If you are interested in helping MMI fund specific wish list items for our classrooms, please contact Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org.

Louis DeAngelo advances to MATHCOUNTS state competition rounds are designed to take about three hours to complete. In the Sprint Round, which focuses on speed and accuracy, students have 40 minutes to complete 30 math problems without a calculator. During the Countdown Round, which focuses on speed and accuracy, Eighth graders Hiba students have a maximum of Muhammad. Samantha Sparich, 45 seconds to complete each Kevin McNulty and Natalie Graham problem without a calculator. and seventh graders Alistair In the Target Round, which Plotnick, Connor Spencer, Elizabeth focuses on problem-solving O’Donnell, Rachael Betz and and mathematical reasoning, Benjamin Zhao also competed on students receive four pairs of MMI’s MATHCOUNTS team. problems and have six minutes The MATHCOUNTS to complete each pair, assuming Competition Series is designed the use of a calculator. In the to cultivate talent in the nation’s Team Round, which focuses brightest young minds by bringing on problem-solving and together students from all 50 states collaboration, four students in a one-of-a-kind competition Members of the MATHCOUNTS team were, first row, from on a school’s team have 20 consisting of a series of in-person left, Samantha Sparich, Natalie Graham, Hiba Muhammad, minutes to complete 10 math Elizabeth O’Donnell and Rachael Betz. At back are, Alistair contests. problems, assuming the use of a Plotnick, Connor Spencer, Louis DeAngelo and Benjamin Zhao. calculator. The Competition Series, Missing from photo are Kevin McNulty and advisor, Mrs. which was created in 1983, is Susan Moyer. MMI eighth-grade student Louis DeAngelo advanced to the MATHCOUNTS state competition after posting the second highest individual score and finishing third in the Countdown Round.

the longest-running MATHCOUNTS program and is open to all sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students. The competition is comprised of four rounds—Sprint, Target, Team and Countdown Round. Altogether the

Parents, alumni, donors gather for MMI Mid-Winter social A Mid-Winter social was held at the Valley Country Club on February 17 where alumni, parents and donors gathered. MMI Head of School D. Scott Wiggins greeted the guests as the new Head of School.

MMI Old baseball jerseys available The MMI Baseball team is gearing up this year’s fundraising efforts to purchase a Hack Attack Pitching Machine! This next generation machine can be used by our mid-school, JV and varsity programs. The exclusive threewheel design of the Hack Attack Baseball Pitching Machine allows the hitter to see the ball clearly all the way through the feeding motion, acceleration and release, just like with a live pitcher. It will not only be used for batting practice but for bunt stations and defensive work on fly balls, ground balls and pickoffs. MMI has a number of game-worn baseball jerseys that are available to add to your wardrobe with a $20 donation to the team’s effort. The jersey numbers that are available in red are: 2, 3, 5, 26, 13, 20, 17, 28, 27, 29, 23, 6, 18, 30, 21, 19, 4, 15 and 16. The pinstripe jersey is available with the following uniform numbers: 17, 26, 25, 24, 21 and 27. To reserve your jersey or learn more, please contact Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org.

Wister Quartet performs piece MMI students composed as part of their professional tour The Wister Quartet, a nationallyrenowned and Grammynominated chamber ensemble, opened their 2016-2017 season with a premiere performance of a song composed by MMI students.

MMI’s Orchestra Director, Christine Lizbinski was honored to attend the professional premiere of “Song for Peace” and was introduced to The Wister Quartet opened their season with a premiere performance of “Song for Peace,” the audience which MMI students composed along with Wister Quartet cellist Lloyd Smith during a Young during the The Wister Composers Workshop last fall. The Wister Quartet made its annual visit to MMI on March 6. concert. “It is not Quartet, along every day that with guitarist Out of these ideas, I arranged a piece a professional Allen Krantz, performed MMI’s “Song for the school orchestra, directed by music group performs a musical for Peace,” during the 1807 & Friends Christine Lizbinski, to play side by side composition created by students from Concert series at the Academy of Vocal with the Wister Quartet and guitarist MMI Preparatory School. This is a Arts in Philadelphia. The concert Allen Krantz. “Song for Peace” was one tremendous honor for our school, our featured music of famous composers of three student compositions created students and the MMI music program,” such as Boccherini, Barrios and Brahms, at our workshops, and featured at this Lizbinski stated. “As the string teacher as well as a world premiere from Frank concert, for their orchestra to play with and orchestra director, I am honored James Staneck, in addition to the our ensemble in April of 2016.” and humbled by these accolades for our professional premiere of “Song for Peace.” Smith described Song for Peace as school. This truly shows how having During a Young Composers “a most extraordinary piece of music a performance music program at our Workshop in November 2015, the created by sixth, seventh, eighth, and school benefits our students’ growth and students worked with Wister Quartet ninth grade students at MMI Preparatory appreciation of the arts.” cellist Lloyd Smith to create a musical School.” He explained that “the music The Wister Quarter, which is composition. Together they worked out opens with anxiety, then replays the celebrating its 30th anniversary, made the melody, harmony, rhythm, mood memories of violence. After the violence its 13th consecutive visit to MMI this and the story behind the music. The comes healing, and a measure of year. The performance is made possible workshop was held just after the tragic tranquility is restored.” While real life through the support of Dr. James W. San Bernardino shootings. In the concert is more complex than envisioning the Feussner ’65 in memory of Elizabeth program, Smith wrote, “Students wanted possibilities of community and healing, Feussner. The school and students to bring people together for healing from Smith stated that the Wister Quartet enjoyed the 2016-2017 Young Composer this horror through their music. The was so moved by the yearning qualities workshop as well as the Wister Concert musical ideas which sprang from this of this composition that they wanted to Performance on March 6. workshop were powerful and moving. perform it professionally.

Three students participate in PMEA District 9 Orchestra Festival MMI students participated in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 9 Orchestra Festival at Elk Lake High School in January. Junior Angelica Alday earned second seat for violin and advanced to the PMEA Regional

Orchestra Festival, which was held March 9-11 at Bangor Area High School. Junior Aaron Harman placed third in the orchestra seating auditions for trombone and freshman Molly O’Connell placed ninth in the violin section. Students were accompanied by music instructor Christine Lizbinski. Pictured at left are, from left: Angelica Alday, Aaron Harman, Molly O’Connell and Christine Lizbinski. The Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) is a statewide nonprofit organization of over 4,500 members, dedicated to promoting the musical development of all Pennsylvanians. The present membership evolved from a small group of band directors dating from 1933.

Today, the organization includes those engaged in music instruction at all levels, from preschool through college and university, as well as those in the music industry, merchandising and publishing.

MMI students dancing the night away!

Above left, MMI crowned seniors Lacee Gera and Kisan Patel, pictured at center in the first row, its 2016 Harvest Queen and King during MMI’s annual Harvest Dance on November 5. Additional court members were seniors Elizabeth Pinto (first row far left), Erin Sari (first row far right), Garrett Kost (second row far left) and Keenan Overa (second row far right). Also pictured in the second row are MMI Head of School D. Scott Wiggins and Parents Association representative Andrea Putnam. Above right, the Mid-School semi-formal dance was held on Saturday, February 4 from 6-9 p.m. at the school. A special thank you to the Parents Association for sponsoring the event and for making the Winter Wonderland come to life for MMI’s sixth, seventh and eighth graders.

Upper School Drama Club The Upper School Drama Club presented Another Evening of OneAct Comedies on December 9-10. The entire Prepper Playhouse was in action on March 17-18 at 7 p.m. as they entertained the audience with “Shrek the Musical.”

Best of the Best Sophomore Alyssa Sweda, pictured second row center, was named the overall “Best of the Best” winner for the first semester for her presentation on Charleston, South Carolina, during MMI’s annual assembly program. Additional “Best of the Best” presenters were, first row, from left: eighth grader Jacqueline Snyder (for her presentation on superstitions) and eighth grader Louis DeAngelo (for his presentation entitled The Internet is Watching You). Second row: senior Joshua Narrow (for his presentation on Hamilton) and sophomore Alexander Kline (for his presentation on how to pack a suitcase). The assembly program is designed to help MMI students improve and enhance their communication skills, which are important as they progress through upper school, college, and beyond.

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

MMI celebrates annual Founder’s Day Students at MMI honored their school’s founders, Eckley Brinton Coxe, and his wife, Sophia Georgianna Coxe, during an assembly at the school and graveside service on Wednesday, giving thanks for the Coxes’ contributions to the school and the area. Students were treated to a Thanksgiving lunch, with the Parents Association providing pies and drinks, and an all-school assembly. Senior class officers presented a history of Eckley Coxe’s life, including the mining industry and the beginning days of the

Mining and Mechanical Institute, the school he founded that is now known as MMI Preparatory School. They also spoke about Sophia Coxe’s contributions and generosity to the area. At the conclusion of the assembly, the senior class officers traveled to the grounds of St. James Episcopal Church in Drifton, where they held a wreath-laying ceremony at the gravesites of Mr. and Mrs. Coxe, more than 120 years after Eckley Coxe’s death. Speakers included Olivia Minzola, senior class secretary, who presented a history of MMI; Dana Carrato,

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.

senior class president, who provided information about Sophia Coxe; Nicholas Young, senior class treasurer, who spoke about Eckley Coxe; and Kevin Cibak, senior class vice president, who talked about the meaning of Thanksgiving. The Rev. Lawrence Barriger, MMI faculty member, provided closing remarks. The school also welcomed back young alumni from the last six graduating years to visit with faculty, staff and students in the Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center.

Alumni calendar of events announced Many exciting events are planned at MMI for the upcoming months. Here are a few of them: The Prepper Playhouse Presents “Shrek the Musical” Friday, March 17 and Saturday, March 18 at 7 p.m. The Prepper Playhouse is set to entertain you with “Shrek the Musical.” Come out and support the performing arts at MMI! Tickets can be purchased by emailing Joanne Oakum at mmi@ mmiprep.org or at the door! Open House Sunday, March 26 from 2-4 p.m. MMI’s annual Open House of student research and cooking projects is open for all alumni, friends, and parents to come and see! Philadelphia Mini-Reunion Wednesday, April 19 from 6-8 p.m. at Tir Na Nog Philly alumni are invited to catch up with classmates and friends at Tir Na Nog. Enjoy complimentary hors d’ oeuvres and drinks! Please RSVP to Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org. Springo Sunday, April 23 from 1-4 p.m. The MMI Parents Association is sponsoring Springo which is open to the public. This is a fun-filled family event featuring bingo, food, tricky trays, the Big Ticket raffle and a whole lot more! Springo serves as one of the Parents Association’s most important fundraising events!

Head of School’s Donor Reception Saturday, May 6 from 5-7 p.m. This special reception is by invitation only for annual fund 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 Club, and The Red Club. Commencement Thursday, May 25 at 7 p.m. All alumni are invited to return to MMI for our annual Commencement exercises! Come and celebrate with the Class of 2017! Please RSVP to Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org if you plan to attend! The 9th Annual Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament Friday, June 23 Save-the-date! Our annual golf outing will be held at Valley Country Club! Lunch starts at noon and tee-off is at 1 p.m. We hope you can grab a foursome, throw in a sponsorship and join us for a really fun day in support of the Preppers’ Athletic Program!

Mid-school grandparents visit MMI campus Mid-School Grandparents and Grandfriends Day was held on November 29. MMI welcomed 86 guests, who attended lunch and class with our 99 middle-school students.

Around Campus MMI is a very active and vibrant school community. Here are just a few of the things our students and faculty have been up to... • The MMI Chamber Ensemble performed at the CAN DO Christmas Concert at the Christ Lutheran Church. The event featured local school music groups and included a visit from Santa.

Seniors, from left, Anirban Chowdhury, Ali Aijaz, and Allison McGeehan, as well as Nicholas Young, placed third at the annual Bloomsburg University Math Contest. They were third in Brain Teasers, Quiz Bowl and the Game of 24 card challenge. • MMI junior Angelica Alday was one of just 30 girls selected to participate in the Center For Women in Technology’s (CWIT) Bits and Bytes Program, which was held in mid-February at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), an honors university in Maryland. • Six MMI student-athletes were honored for their performance during the fall sports season. Senior Dana Carrato was named to the Wyoming Valley Coaches Association Second Team and juniors Madison Perchak and Lauryn Banyas were honorable mention selections in volleyball. The Citizens’ Voice selected junior George Palermo (golf), sophomore Jessica McClellan (golf), senior Elizabeth Pinto (tennis) and senior Dana Carrato (volleyball) to its All Star teams in their respective sports. • Student-athletes Dana Carrato and Garrett Kost were recently named the school’s winners for the prestigious Wendy’s High School Heisman award which highlights exceptional high school seniors and their achievements in the classroom, on the field, and in the community.

Spanish language students celebrated Tres Reyes, or Three Kings Day, and shared the story of the celebration with students at the Hazleton One Community Center under the guidance of faculty member Mrs. Syra Dewar.

• Chinese language students, under the tutelage of Mrs. Christina Spencer, were treated to a Chinese feast to celebrate Chinese New Year. Rice cakes with pork and cabbage, dumplings and deep fried rice cakes were on the menu on February 1. • MMI welcomed a crew from the Childrens British Broadcasting Channel (CBBC) during inauguration week. Sophomore Andrew Decker, seventh grader Madison Igdalsky, freshman Katharine Pinto, freshman Andrellie Puntiel, freshman Ben Putnam,

Anden Karlick, left, captured first place in MMI’s Sixth Grade Science Fair for his presentation on Root Systems and Erosion. John Schwear III, right, placed second for his presentation on Tire Pressure in Bicycles and Jeffrey DeAngelo, right, received third place for his presentation on How Senses Change Your Taste. Cinema & Draft House, where students met with Board of Directors Vice Chairman John Hersker ’76 and business proprietor Sybil Katona to enjoy the movie “Joy” and participate in a discussion about entrepreneurship and business. • MMI Art and Anthropology Instructor Mrs. Lisa Ferry was invited to have 12 photographs on display in a public showing at the Hazleton Art League on February 3.

The FBLA Club held a school-wide Dodgeball Tournament on February 27 to help raise money for the National Kidney Foundation. The tournament was part of a statewide effort and the MMI chapter raised $400 for the cause.

• German language students took a trip to Bethlehem to learn more about the Moravians and explore German holiday customs and traditions. MMI also had German language students who participated in the Eckley Miner’s Village “Eckley Christmas.” Students performed German Christmas Carols accompanied by music instructor Daniel DeMelfi and Cole and Will Smith, members of MMI’s tenth and seventh grades respectively.

freshman Hugh Soltau, seventh grader Connor Spencer and seventh grader Ben Zhao all shared their thoughts about the election and then President Elect Donald Trump on January 17 for “Newsround,” a news program geared toward children ages 6 to 12. In addition to students at MMI, the three-member crew spoke to students in Trump’s hometown of New York City and in Washington, D.C. as they covered the inauguration. Newsround episodes air online at www.bbc.co.uk/newsround. • Sophomores Elizabeth Eckhart and Desiree Petrick were selected to represent MMI at the 2017 Central Pennsylvania Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) seminar, which will be held May 18-21 at Shippensburg University. The fourday HOBY seminar focuses on the theme “Empower. Lead. Excel” while encouraging the young leaders to display responsible citizenship, including community service and volunteerism. • The FBLA Club and their advisor, Mrs. Katie Zucco, took a field trip to the

Eighth grader Dominique Kline was awarded the CAN/AM Camp Scholarship in the Girls U14 Division while at the CAN/AM Challenge Cup in Lake Placid, NY, in early November with her hockey team, the New Jersey Rockets. One component of the scholarship was an essay in which it was evident that Dominique “demonstrates a real motivation, love of the game and a willingness to work hard both on and off the ice.”

• At the District Band competition, junior Aaron Harman placed first chair in the trombone 3 section. This placement earned him the privilege of being the first MMI Band student to progress to the Regional Band level!

In addition, Mrs. Novotney had her poem “English 101” published in the September issue of English Journal, NCTE’s award-winning journal of ideas for English language arts teachers in middle, junior and senior high schools.

• Seventh grader Christian Homnack was the winner, and classmate Connor On February 8, MMI welcomed Sweethearts and Heroes to campus to have them present Spencer finished as a powerful anti-bullying and motivational message to all grades! Check them out at the runner-up, in MMI’s http://www.sweetheartsandheroes.org. competition as part of qualifications for the • On Tuesday, November 22, ninth grade National Geographic Bee. • In early students visited Eckley Miners’ Village with MMI’s Geographic Bee competition, at which November, the MMI STEM Department faculty members Mrs. Grete Floryshak students answered questions on geography, received a shipment of 366 Brook Trout eggs ’92 and Mr. Jason Tribbet as part of their was the first round in the 29th annual (300 viable eggs) from the PA Trout in the history class. Students Classroom program. We have acclimated them took a 45-minute tour in our tank, they have hatched and continue of the churches and to grow! Early in spring we will be releasing houses of the village, our Brook Trout into the Nescopeck Creek. watched a 20-minute Watch live at https://www.mmiprep.org/ video about the history About/live-streaming.html. of daily life and work in Eckley, participated in a scavenger hunt through the museum, and got to try an artifact cataloging activity where they learned about museum MMI’s tenth grade students embarked on a crosscurating work. MMI’s curricular field trip to Corning Museum of Glass to visit ninth grade students all the museum galleries, the Innovation Center, as well also visited Providence Place on a separate trip as participate in the Chemistry of Glass school tour. The where they spent time upper levels of the museum explore the history of glass from with residents and Ancient Egypt to the Renaissance. After eating lunch at the offered a hat fashion museum, students spent time exploring these galleries to show. learn more about the role glass has played throughout the

rise of civilizations. National Geographic Bee. As MMI’s winner, Homnack now has a chance to compete for a $50,000 college scholarship. • Seniors Garrett Kost and Danielle Pileggi earned honors as WVIA Artists of the Week for the week of January 15.

• English instructor Mrs. Jennifer Novotney was one of 13 teachers from across the country to receive the National High School Teacher of Excellence Award from the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). Mrs. Novotney accepted her award during the annual conference in Atlanta in November where she was also a general session presenter during the second day of the four-day convention.

In mid-February, sixth grade science students created “Incredible Edible Cells” to show their knowledge of cell structure. Cells were constructed out of cakes, cookies, candy and fruit.

• In late October, MMI students participated in Unity Week to stand together against bullying. Crazy Socks, hats, team jerseys and wearing orange (the official color of the antibullying event), and signing an anti-bullying banner were some of the activities. • On January 5, members of the Class of 2016 returned to MMI for a session facilitated by Mrs. Stephanie Shandra, College Admissions Counselor, to share their first-year college experience with this year’s senior class. • On October 6, the MMI World Languages Department held the annual International Dinner. This year marked the 30th anniversary of the event with more than 95 students, faculty, family and friends attending. Ninth grade student Skyler Stabin provided piano music for all to enjoy.

MMI’s eighth graders took a field trip to historical Philadelphia to enhance their social science studies.

Alumni Notes

What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe Dr. Thomas Edmunds ’62 retired for the second time this fall after having worked for Bell Laboratories/Bellcore for 25 years and then beginning a second career as a member of the faculty at Raritan Valley Community College in New Jersey for 17 years. At their most recent meeting, Dr. George Feussner ’62 was selected to serve as President of the Southern Clinical Neurological Society, an educational group formed about 40 years ago and comprised of about 300 member neurologists nationally. On October 1, 2016, Maura (Kurtz) Hodge ’00 joined the partnership at KPMG. She focuses on audits of pre-clinical and clinical stage life sciences companies. Maura is a 2004 graduate of the University of South Carolina. Robert Rosamelia ’14 worked with a classmate at American University this fall coordinating bipartisan events for both parties, organizing debate watch parties and working to register

thousands of students to vote on campus through TurboVote. They also brought political strategists and operatives Ana Navarro, a Republican, and Patti Solis Doyle, a Democrat, to campus to discuss politics in the media. Robert is interested in U.S. foreign policy and would like to work as a policy craftsman at a conservative think tank in Washington. The following MMI alumni earned recognition on the Dean’s List following the fall semester: Emily Bogansky ’15 (St. Joseph’s University), Andreas Boosalis ’16 (Wilkes University), Alyssa Famalette ’16 (Loyola University Maryland), Collin Finkel ’15 (Wilkes University), Alex Haber ’14 (University of Scranton), Eric Kabitzke ’15 (University of Scranton), Roger Knittle ’14 (Bucknell University), Robert Kupsho ’14 (Lebanon Valley College), Sarah Moyer ’16 (Elizabethtown College), Casey Olszewski ’13 (Ithaca College’s School of Communications), Emily Seratch ’15 (Elizabethtown College), Nash Wenner ’16 (Wilkes University) and Luke Yamulla ’16 (Lafayette College).

Milestones Events in the lives of the MMI family Births Melissa (Moore) Cabe ’96 and her husband, Jason, welcomed Nathaniel Jaxon Cabe on May 27, 2016. The Cabes also have an older son, Alexander, who is three. Faculty member Justin Vincent and his wife, Mindy, welcomed Micah Justin Vincent on December 28, 2016. He joins big brothers Ethan and Elliot. Andromeda Mae Titus was born on February 25, 2017, to parents Colin Titus ’06 and his wife, Sierra. MMI faculty member Donna Titus and her husband, Albert, are the proud grandparents

Weddings

Faculty member Grete DeAngelo ’92 wed Aaron Floryshak ’95 on November 25, 2016. The new family resides in Sugarloaf with their sons, from left, Reed Floryshak, Jeffrey DeAngelo ’23 and Louis DeAngelo ’21.

Lindsay Gorski ’07 wed Sean Cassidy on December 30, 2016, at Peddler’s Village in Lahaska, PA. The couple’s daughters, Grace and Catherine, were the flower girls. Lindsay’s cousin Laura (Satterfield) Sierra ’06 was the maid of honor, and Anna Loshakov ’07 and Sonya Kalim ’07 were bridesmaids. Other MMI alumni in attendance were: Lindsay’s brother Jordan Gorski ’10; cousins David Satterfield ’08 and Daniel Satterfield; friends Bernard Bonner ’07, LeeAnn (Palubinsky) Eble ’02, Stephen Palubinsky ’07, and faculty member Donna Titus and her husband, Albert.

Milestones Events in the lives of the MMI family Deaths Francis Becker ’57 passed away on November 13, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; and daughters Michele Lee Becker and Suzanne Becker. Arthur K. Bell ’47 passed away on November 14, 2016. He is survived by his three daughters, Kathy Bell, Diane Hoppy, and Donna Banyas and husband, Gerald; son Randy Bell and his wife, Maureen; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Rosemary Eileen Dunne, 2 month-old infant daughter of Fintan and Erika Rodriguez Dunne ’04, passed away on November 9, 2016. She is survived, in addition to her parents, by her maternal grandparents, Michael and Sharon Rodriguez, and paternal grandparents, Sean and Helen Dunne. She is also survived by a number of loving aunts, uncles and cousins. Athena Smith Ford ’01 passed away October 23, 2016. She is survived by her mother, Diane Smith; father, Tom Ford, and stepmother, Maureen Cosgrove; and brother, Austin Ford ‘03. William Paul Fox Sr. ’48 passed away on February 24, 2017, while his wife, Anna Mae Fox, passed away on February 1, 2017. They are survived by sons William and his wife, Jamie; Chris and his wife, Lisa; and Jeffrey Fox ‘86 and his wife, Rose; and daughter, Judy. William and Anna are also survived by twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Dorothy Mary Campbell Garvey passed away on October 20, 2016. Dorothy is survived by her children and their spouses, Dotty and Randy Weaver; Vincent Garvey, Jr.; Christine and David DeLuce; MMI faculty member Timothy Garvey and Allyson; Sean Garvey; and Michael Yurista. She is also survived by fourteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Wilmot C. Jones Jr. ’45 passed away on August 10, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Harriet Holton Jones; two sons, Wilmot C. Jones III and David H. Jones and his wife, Lori; two grandchildren, Cecily and Will, and brother, Robert D. Jones ’48. Daniel R. Kimmel passed away on February 9, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Helen; son, Richard Kimmel ’69 and his wife, Susan; two grandchildren, Jeffery and Sarah; and brother, Raymond Kimmel and his wife, Gertrude. Edward P. Lakitsky ’46 passed away on December 2, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Jean; son, Edward; daughter, Andrea; and two granddaughters. Philip Landmesser Jr. passed away on November 2, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Teresa, and daughter, Cindi Landmesser ’13.

Dr. Thomas P. J. McGraw ’52 passed away on December 9, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Anne M., and children Anne McGraw Reeves and her husband, Tim; Christine Branin and her husband, Sean; Thomas McGraw; Dr. Brian McGraw and his wife, Jane; Sean McGraw; and Kathleen McGraw; and 11 grandchildren. MMI Board member Lisa Chaykowski Merlo ’80 passed away on December 13, 2016. She is survived by her husband, Tony. Kurt F. Nenstiel ’73 passed away on May 12, 2014. He is survived by his wife, Susan; and children Seth and Amanda. Robert E. Ostroff ’53 passed away on June 24, 2016. He is survived by his sisters, Carol Mikitka and Dororthy Lazarsky, and her husband, Jack; brother, Donald; and several nieces and nephews. Margaret “Mimi” Haentjens Stone passed away on February 11, 2017. She was preceded in death by her father, Walter Haentjens ’39, and brother, Grove Haentjens. She is survived by her mother, Nancy, and stepfather, Jerry Leichtmann; stepmother, Kathleen Haentjens; brother, Rick Haentjens; children, Parker Stone and his wife, Kimberly; and Carver Stone and wife, Lisa; grandchildren, Jack Stone and Bella Stone; siblings, MMI faculty member Grete Floryshak ’92 and her husband, Aaron Floryshak ’95; Gavin Haentjens ’94 and his wife, Margaret; Brendan Haentjens and his wife, Samantha; and Colin Haentjens ’08; nieces, Nicole Traore ’94 and Genevieve Haentjens; and nephews, Rick Haentjens ’96, Louis DeAngelo ’21, Jeffrey DeAngelo ’23, and Francis Haentjens. Alice Tomlinson passed away on November 19, 2016. She is survived by her son, Craig A. Eisenberger ‘04; and two siblings, Ida Martin and Donald Tomlinson. Theodore F. Twardzik passed away on November 10, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Jean; three sons, Ted Jr. and his wife, Audrey; former MMI Board member Tim Twardzik and his wife, Caroline; and Tom and his wife, Pam; and five grandsons, including Eric Twardzik ’09 and Ryan Twardzik ’12. Frank Vito passed away on December 26, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Angeline; three children, Angeline Evancho and her husband, Joseph; Frank and his wife, Debbie; and Carmine Carrato and her husband, Dr. Anthony Carrato ’83; and 14 grandchildren, including Angela Carrato ’09, Anthony Carrato ’10, Maria Carrato ’14, Dana Carrato ’17 and Nicholas Carrato ’19. Martha E. Zellner passed away on November 23, 2016. She is survived by her sons Albert and his wife, Diane, and Stephen and his wife, Theresa; daughters Martha and her husband, James Coyne; Amy and her husband, Cary Petrichko; and Judith Zellner; and six grandchildren, including Stephanie Zellner ’18.

Memorials

Library Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between Oct. 15, 2016 and Feb. 1, 2017

In Memory of Beatrice S. Abrams Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams

In Memory of Dr. Edgar Dessen Mr. Daniel Duffy and Mrs. Beth Duffy ’78

In Memory of Catherine Gubbiotti Senape & Associates

In Memory of Marlene Abrams Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams Mr. Ryan Horsey and Mrs. Jessica Horsey ’95

In Memory of George Dinofrio Sr. Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In Memory of Santino Gubbiotti Senape & Associates

In Memory of Richard C. Abrams ’60 Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams

In Memory of Jim Dvorshock Dr. Feelgoode’s

In Memory of Simon Abrams ’30 Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams

In Memory of Robert Edmunds ’56 Dr. Thomas Edmunds ’62 & Mrs. Pamela Edmunds

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

In Memory of Michael Elliot Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In Memory of Stanley Balon ’38 Mr. Frank D. Balon In Memory of Francis Becker ’57 Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In Memory of Arthur Bell ’47 Dr. Richard Bott ’79 and Mrs. Nadine Bott Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In Honor of Kaitlyn Bellizia ’19 Ms. Helen Bellizia In Memory of Louis Beltrami Atty. and Mrs. Theodore R. Laputka Jr. In Memory of Louis & Alexandra Betley Mr. Gregory Betley ’70 and Mrs. Anne Marie Lesniak-Betley In Memory of Mary Bierley “She wanted to go to MMI but it was boys only!” Mr. Karl R. Bierley ’46 In Honor of Denis Brenan ’55 Mr. Sean Brenan In Memory of Lambert Broad Mr. and Mrs. Doug Kushnerick Mrs. Leatrice Kushnerick In Memory of Linda Busher Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce Atty. and Mrs. Edward P. McNelis In Memory of Kim Byriel Ms. Julia Byriel In Memory of Bill Campbell Ms. Samantha M. Christopher ’04 In Memory of Gene Carsia ’58 Mr. Edward Lesny ’58 and Mrs. Susanne Lesny In Memory of Ed Cepil ’58 Mr. Edward Lesny ’58 and Mrs. Susanne Lesny In Memory of Ambabai and Mahadev Chikarmane Dr. Ajit Chikarmane and Dr. Kalpana Chikarmane In Memory of Helen Ciuzio Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Honor of Dennis Clarke Mr. James Makuch ’60 and Mrs. Marylin Makuch In Memory of Thomas Conahan ’26 and Eugenia E. Conahan Dr. Thomas J. Conahan III ’59 and Mrs. Catherine Conahan In Memory of John Corrigan Jr. ’34 Mr. John J. Corrigan ’63 In Memory of Brinton Coxe Mrs. Brinton Coxe

In Memory of Dr. John Della Croce ’47 Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In Memory of Patrick Fiero Jr. Mrs. Lynn Gorski In Memory of Athena Ford ’01 Mr. Joseph Bisagna and Mrs. Kristin Bisagna ’03 Mr. James Blaum and Ms. Karen Petrosky-Blaum ’01 Mr. Jason T. Boock ’03 Mr. James Britt and Mrs. Erin W. Britt ’02 Mr. Jason Cabe and Mrs. Melissa Cabe ’96 Mr. Andrew N. Christopher ’00 Mr. and Mrs. Dennis P. Clarke Frances Cosgrove Miss Nina C. Dei Tos ’01 Ms. Nora Della Croce ’00 Lee Durand Mrs. Selena J. Efting ’03 and Mr. Bradley J. Efting Atty. Thomas Ford and Mrs. Maureen Cosgrove Ms. Allison L. Hudak ’01 Mrs. Mary Beth Hudak Mr. Zachary Jones and Ms. Krystle Baker ’02 Mr. Kenneth Lasoski Ms. Julianne Lawson ’98 Mr. Jason Lenko and Dr. Jodi W. Lenko ’99 Marquis George MacDonald Foundation, Inc. Mr. John Matosky and Mrs. Cynthia Matosky ’01 Mr. John Mosty and Mrs. Mary Franzosa ’98 Mr. Achal Oza and Dr. Sveta Oza ’01 Mrs. Crystal J. Rodgers ’01 Ms. Laura L. Satterfield ’06 Mr. Jonathan Sisock ’01 and Mrs. Danielle Sisock Ms. Robin Stelly Mr. Christopher Trovitch ’03 and Mrs. Katie Trovitch Mr. Ryan C. Weber ’01 Mr. Jonathan H. Yoon ’99 In Memory of Anna Mae Fox Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of William Fox Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos In Memory of Patricia Petrovich Galade Atty. Richard DiLiberto Jr. ’79 and Atty. Faith DiLiberto In Memory of Dorothy Mary Garvey Mr. and Mrs. Dennis P. Clarke In Memory of Bob and Linda Gicking Ms. Rose M. Welliver ’73 In Memory of Stephen Gimmer Jr. Mr. Matt S. Gimmer ’86 In Memory of Al Goedecke ’45 Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos In Memory of Ira Goldberg ’64 Dr. John Feussner ’64 and Mrs. Carol BlessingFeussner In Memory of Scott Graham ’84 Mr. Brian Ayers and Mrs. Cynthia Ayers ‘84 Mr. Rusty Cassway and Mrs. Karen Cassway ’84 Mr. Barton Hanline and Mrs. Lisa Hanline ’84 Dr. Bruce Klugherz and Dr. Michelle Ecker ’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

In Memory of David Gundling ’68 Mrs. Judy Gundling Dr. Fredrick Sherman ’63 and Ms. Patricia Rowe In Memory of Walter Haentjens ‘39 Ms. Grete Floryshak ’92 & Mr. Aaron Floryshak ’95 Mr. Gavin P. Haentjens ’94 and Ms. Maggie Slye In Memory of Jeffrey Haraschak Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Blanch Hilliard Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Catherine Hoch Mr. Jason Cabe and Mrs. Melissa Cabe ’96 In Honor of Tom and Mary-Lee Hood Mr. James Makuch ’60 and Mrs. Marylin Makuch John and Tracey Potoskie and Family In Memory of David Kanuck ’64 Dr. John Feussner ’64 and Mrs. Carol BlessingFeussner In Memory of Paul Katona Jr. Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Daniel Kimmel Mrs. Helen Kimmel In Memory of Lorraine Kirschner Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Jake Kislan ’56 Mr. Frank Cabell and Dr. Christine Cabell ’89 Mr. and Mrs. David A. Eschenbach Mr. Joseph Flanagan Mr. Dennis Puhalla Mr. Dan Ravina In Memory of George Kostick ’64 Dr. John Feussner ’64 and Mrs. Carol BlessingFeussner In Memory of Andrew & Helen Kushma Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Kushma II In Honor of Edward Kushma ’62 Mr. Glenn Kushma In Memory of Phillip Landmesser Mr. and Mrs. Emmett Thomas In Memory of John Lukac ’64 Dr. John Feussner ‘64 and Mrs. Carol BlessingFeussner Mr. and Mrs. Emmett P. Nestor In Memory of Alvan Lynn ’55 Mrs. Patricia J. Lynn In Memory of Lawrence Marchetti Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Jules Mason ’32 Roman-Mason Foundation In Memory of Dr. Thomas McGraw ’52 Frank and Nancy Arvai, Sally and Richard Engelgau, and Sarah Yanik Mr. and Mrs. Richard Baldassarre Ms. Susan Bilotta Dr. and Mrs. James Boyle Ms. Elizabeth Bray Mr. Jerry Cramer and Mrs. Lynn Cramer Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Dixon Mr. and Mrs. Mark Dobbins Ms. Chloe Eichelberger

Endowed fund established in memory of Athena S. Ford ’01 MMI alumna Athena S. Ford ’01 passed away on October 23 from complications from injuries she sustained in a motor vehicle accident. Athena Athena S. Ford ’01 was a genuinely empathetic person who dedicated her life to those in need. While a student at MMI, Athena started a chapter of Amnesty International and served on the organization’s Mid-Atlantic, Regional Planning Board. She also initiated a Yellow Ribbon Club, to raise awareness of teen suicide prevention. Upon graduating from Kenyon College, Athena became a

Community Organizer for Working America’s Philadelphia branch, advocating for working class families. Shortly thereafter, her passion expanded to health care reform.

$5,170 made to the establishment of this fund which will exist in perpetuity, teaching MMI students the importance of serving the community for years to come.

She was committed to the support and passage of the Affordable Care Act and the expansion of Medicaid in both Pennsylvania and Florida.

The Class of 2001 needs your help to meet the challenge! If the value of the fund can reach $17,500, MMI will create The Athena S. Ford ’01 Day of Service. Annually on the day of service, all MMI students will be sent into the community to accomplish service projects by grade level. This initiative is a great way to benefit the local community and provide a way to honor a woman to which service was so important.

In an effort to honor her memory, members of the Class of 2001 led by Nina C. Dei Tos ’01 and Allison Hudak ’01 are working diligently to establish The Athena S. Ford ’01 Endowed Fund for Community Service. The purpose of this fund will be to supply the cost of transportation needed to send current MMI students out into the community to perform acts of community service in Athena’s name. Currently, there have been donations totaling

To support this initiative, please visit www.mmiprep.org, click on the “Donate Now” button and select the appropriate fund. Thank you!

Additional memorials (Continued from page 18) Mike Doyle and Bret Kobler Dr. and Mrs. Mark Illfelder Ann Pitcher, Cammie Dunaway, Kim Ollson, Elizabeth Conwell, and Greer Hughes Project Development Services Inc. Dr. Robina Santaniello Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Sharp Mrs. Geralyn Umstead-Singer Stacey, Jen, Zoe, and Dylan Smith Ms. Carolyn Steinhauser The Hotel Hershey Mrs. Linda Yakacki In Honor of Kevin McNulty ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Parmegiani In Memory of Lisa Merlo ’80 Mr. Brian Lucas ’84 and Mrs. Kathy Lucas Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In Honor of MMI’s Faculty and Staff Mr. and Mrs. Robert Catling Mr. and Mrs. Barry D. Hosier In Memory of Mary and Rudolph Mucha Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha In Memory of Nicholas Nemesh Dr. John Feussner ’64 and Mrs. Carol BlessingFeussner Mr. William Steward ’72 and Mrs. Maryanne Steward In Memory of Shirley Nenstiel Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Martin O’Donnell ’37 Mrs. Agnes O’Donnell In Memory of Steven Paranac Dr. John ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Clara Patacki Mr. Jason Lenko and Dr. Jodi W. Lenko ’99 In Memory of Stanley Percosky Jr. Mr. and Mrs. David S. Marchetti In Memory of Tony Pitman ’58 Mr. Edward Lesny ’58 and Mrs. Susanne Lesny

In Memory of Saffiyah Qadri Mr. William Spear ’79 and Mrs. Marylynne Spear

In Memory of Ronald Turri ’62 Mr. Robert Turri ’60 and Mrs. Marie Turri

In Memory of Damian Randis Ms. Danielle Donadi

In Memory of Theodore Twardzik Mr. Daniel Kostick ’54 and Mrs. Janet Kostick

In Honor of Michelle Reck ’11 Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Alles

In Memory of Mary Jane Urenovitch Dr. Joseph V. Urenovitch ’55

In Memory of Karen Riley Mr. E. Edward Riley ’61

In Memory of Dr. David and Mrs. Edith Wagner Atty. David Stern and Mrs. Barbara Wagner ’79

In Memory of Merritt & Agnes Rimshaw Mr. Dennis Brady ’62 and Mrs. Judith Thomas In Memory of William Ripple Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In Memory of Peter Washinsky Sr. Dr. and Mrs. Michael A. Washinsky Sr. In Memory of Michael Wassel ’51 Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Boyle

In Memory of Anthony Romeo ’51 Mr. John J. Bradish ’51

In Memory of John Watahovich Jr Mr. Robert Watahovich ’50

In Memory of JoAnn Sahaida Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce

In Memory of Mr. & Mrs. Clarence Williams Mr. Robert Klotz ’58 and Mrs. Carol Klotz

In Memory of Bernadette Senape Atty. Michael Senape ’92 and Atty. Kimberly Kostun In Honor of Dr. William ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis Mr. Michael Shergalis In Memory of Martin Stefanik ’58 Mrs. Judith A. Stefanik In Memory of Andrew Stofan Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Harold and Millie Sugarman Mr. Scott J. Sugarman ’73 In Memory of Joseph Tito ’92 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Sisack Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Tito Ms. Kandie L. Tito ’94

In Honor of Mr. and Mrs. John Probert Ms. Suzanne Searfoss

In Memory of Alice Tomlinson Mr. Craig A. Eisenberger ’04 Mr. Paul Ferdinand ’63 and Mrs. Nancy Ferdinand Ms. Cassandra Zook

In Honor of Benjamin Putnam ’20 and Ava Putnam ’23 Mr. Alfred Senape ’63 and Mrs. Marilyn Senape

In Memory of Walter Tunnessen ’57 Mrs. Nancy L. Tunnessen

In Honor of Kaylee Witner ’22 Mr. and Mrs. William Van Horn In Memory of Dr. David Yakacki ’69 Mrs. Elenora Duerr Mrs. Linda Yakacki In Memory of Frederick Yannes ’25 Mr. James A. Yannes In Memory of Edward Yanochko Sr. Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Rita Yanochko Dr. John Della Croce ’73 and Mrs. Marybeth Della Croce In Memory of Sarah Yuscavage ’04 Mr. Paul Ferdinand ’63 and Mrs. Nancy Ferdinand In Memory of Gloria Zehner The Class of 1980 In Memory of Martha Zellner Dr. Feelgoode’s In Memory of Pasquale Zito Senape & Associates In Honor of Alexis Zola ’21 Atty. Peter Fagan ‘65 and Mrs. Ann Fagan

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID WILKES-BARRE, PA PERMIT#188

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

A “Grand” time

MMI middle school students welcomed 86 guests to campus for its annual Grandparents Day. See page 12 for more photos from the day of fun and learning.

Important Dates Prepper Playhouse “Shrek the Musical” . . . . . . . March 17-18 Open House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 26 Springo Bingo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 23 Head of School’s Donor Reception . . . . . . . . . . . May 6 Prep School Awards Convocation . . . . . . . . . . . . May 16

Mid School Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18 Baccalaureate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23 Commencement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25 Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . June 2 Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament. . . . . June 23