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Todd Schell ’80, will deliver Founder’s Day address during 2020 Commencement Observation Island, a ship used to monitor compliance with strategic arms treaties and support U.S. military weapons test programs.

Todd Alan Schell ’80, currently a Senior Product Manager at Ivanti, will serve as the commencement speaker at MMI’s 2020 Commencement Ceremony on May 28.

In 1989, Schell separated from the service as a Captain, and accepted an Air Force civil service engineering position in the Computer Security Countermeasures Branch at the Air Force Information Warfare Center located at then-Kelly AFB in San Antonio. After two years, he was promoted to branch chief and was managing military and civilian contractors in the development of cutting-edge defensive computer security technologies.

Schell has worked his entire career in the computer security industry, holding management positions as an Air Force officer, civil servant, company founder and entrepreneur, and commercial product manager.

He is a subject matter expert in a wide range of security technologies, including intrusion detection, application control, device control, and patch management.

Schell addressed his time in the Air Force by commenting, “I’m most proud of my time and work in the Air Force. Back in the 1980s and 90s (yes, I’ve been doing this for a while), I wrote the Schell told us he was honored to original concept of operations for the Air Force be selected to speak to the Class of Computer Emergency Response Team (AFCERT).

2020 and is anxious to share some of The Air Force had experienced a security breach his career lessons learned, which he and the select team of security professionals I hopes will inspire our graduates on Todd Schell ’80 will serve as commencement worked with put this program together from their path to success through college speaker in May. scratch. The AFCERT became the model for all and beyond. He and his wife of nearly services and was soon copied by commercial 34 years, Dr. Joleen Beltrami ’82, met at industry as well. I am proud to have been a part of this pioneering MMI, so coming back always invokes fond memories of good times. work.”

The Valedictorian of MMI’s class of 1980, Schell graduated from Lehigh University in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. At MMI, he was a member of the Health Careers, Science, Hiking, Newspaper, Spirit, and Yearbook clubs and also played one season each on the baseball team and golf team. While in college, he decided to join the military through the College Senior Engineer Program. Upon graduation, he was transferred to Officer Training School in San Antonio, where he finished second in his class and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force.

Schell served on active duty for five years from 1984-89 as part of a four-person computer security test team. Traveling the world, his team had the opportunity to test and ensure the security of highly classified systems including the space shuttle facilities at Vandenburg AFB used to launch military satellites and the USS

Schell, along with nine friends, founded WheelGroup, a start-up computer security company, in 1995 in San Antonio, TX. Eight of the ten founders originally met and worked together at the Air Force Information Warfare Center and Schell served as the company’s Director of Consulting Services. WheelGroup was one of the first companies to specialize in network security and penetration testing.

They developed and sold the first commercial intrusion detection system, NetRanger, and also created the first network vulnerability scanner, NetSonar. After only three years in business, WheelGroup was acquired by Cisco Systems in 1998 for $122 million.

Following the sale of WheelGroup, Schell accepted a position with Cisco as a product manager expediting the integration and adoption of the WheelGroup technology across the company.

Leaving Cisco in 2000, Schell stepped away from the industry and (continued on page 15)

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From the Head of School Dear MMI Family & Friends, Life never ceases to surprise us. I was expecting to look out my office window at MMI this winter and see mountains of fluffy white snow, but instead most days I see our bare lawns during this extremely mild Freeland winter. My sons are still wondering when we are going sledding and are convinced I fabricated stories of Freeland’s mountains of snow. As I transitioned to Head of School, I admittedly wondered what changes would greet me, what I would miss the most, and what surprises lie in store.

I knew I would miss teaching, but not how much. There is something empowering about working with great students every day that enriches your life. I always thought I learned far more from my students every day than anything else. At MMI, I have seen the same things during classroom visits that are part of the ongoing faculty evaluation and growth model.

As I checked into classrooms, I frequently witnessed the joy of learning. Whether it was seniors dissecting sheep hearts in Human Physiology class, or tenth graders giving Black History presentations in World History class, or sixth graders learning how to measure angles for the first time in math class, I found smiles and discovery. Across all grade levels and subjects, I found the culture of curiosity that drives us.

For more than a century, one of the most enduring parts of the MMI academic program is its emphasis and success with public speaking. You can see it inside and outside of the school. Our sophomore and senior assemblies featured Best of Best presentations as diverse as origins of language difficulty and the true meaning of heat. Our students were poised and prepared, a true testament to students and teachers alike collaborating in fascinating ways. Our Mock Trial team competed at the Luzerne County Courthouse and I was there to see our students stand apart for their eloquence and composure under pressure. I am looking forward to the spring for Open House, another round of Assemblies, as well as our seniors send off with their final thoughts on their MMI careers.

Prepper Nation is alive and well as both the boys and girls basketball teams qualified for district competition and the girls made it to the District Championship round. All season our players have demonstrated grit and determination regardless of the level of competition. At MMI, we always compete.

What I found this winter was the incredible consistency of the MMI program. MMI academics, athletics, and extra/ co-curriculars demonstrate excellence and allow our students to shine every day. Teachers and students are working hard to continue traditions all year long as PJAS, FBLA, Envirothon, and a round of spring sports – tennis, baseball, and softball await all of us. I am tremendously excited and can’t wait to see you out there.

Justin Kleinheider Head of School

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

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Justin Kleinheider

William A. Shergalis, Ph.D. ’58

Head of School

President Emeritus

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

Fifty-nine students earn top 10 awards at FBLA regionals and 38 advance to FBLA State Leadership Conference Fifty-nine MMI students earned certificate awards in the top 10 of their respective events at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Regional Leadership Conference and 38 students will advance to the FBLA State Leadership Conference in Hershey in April.

MMI students who advanced to the state competition, and their regional results, are as follows: Paige Machulsky Thirty-eight MMI students will advance to the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership (first place in Advertising); Conference in Hershey in April following their performance at the FBLA regional competition. Pictured Rachael Betz (first place are, first row, from left: Brenna Eckhart, Manal Muhammad, Annabel Dobash, Gianna Moisey-Hoover, Jacqueline Snyder, Katherine Lewandowski, Hiba Muhammad, Alexis Dalesandro, Lindsay Horvat, and in Intro to Information Andrellie Puntiel. Second row: Kennedy Tavaris, Katharine Pinto, Maya Rizkalla, Paige Machulsky, Olivia Technology); Gianna Bartholomew, Rachael Betz, Sandra Abdulrahman, Morgan Allen, Samantha Sparich, and Emily Ankiewicz.

Moisey-Hoover (first Third row: FBLA Advisor Katherine Zucco, Darren Zheng, Adam Tron, Kai Mele, Ethan Stine, Noah Long, place in Intro to FBLA); Josue Rodriguez, Alexander Jordan, and Benjamin Putnam. Fourth row: Connor Spencer, James Kelly, Jacqueline Snyder (first Christian Yamulla, Kevin McNulty, Marcus Danchision, and Robert Rinaldi. Absent from photo are: Thomas place in Client Service); Ansilio, Harrison Kress, Morgan Strecker, and Colin Williams.

Katherine Lewandowski and Hannah Falatko (10th place in Colin Williams (fifth place in Political and Hiba Muhammad Business Communication).

Science); Brenna Eckhart (fifth place in (team event) (first place in Business Intro to FBLA Procedures); James Kelly Ethics); Emily Ankiewicz and Adam MMI FBLA advisor Katherine Zucco and Robert Rinaldi (team event) (fifth Tron (team event) (first place in Global said, “I am so proud of all our students place in Banking & Financial Decision); Business); Lindsay Horvat and Kennedy who participated in FBLA this year. So Connor Spencer (fifth place in Banking Tavaris (team event) (first place in many of them joined FBLA for the first & Financial Systems); and Darren Zheng Intro to Business Presentation); Alexis time and pursued an event that either (Top 10 in Computer and Programming).

Dalesandro (second place in Healthcare challenged them academically, pushed Administration); Thomas Ansilio (second them to further refine their speaking Additional MMI top 10 finishers are: place in Insurance & Risk Management); skills, or allowed them to pursue a Jillian McGeehin (third place in Intro Annabel Dobash (second place in Intro professional field of their own interest. to Public Speaking); Violet O’Connell to Business); Manal Muhammad (second Our students use the personal and (fourth place in Sales Presentation); place in Intro to FBLA Procedures); and professional skills they have gained in all Dominique Kline, Sydney Kohl, and Morgan Allen and Samantha Sparich of their courses to shine in everything McKenna Gallagher (fourth place in (team event) (second place in Emerging they do,” she said. “MMI consistently Publication Design); Carter Frask, Business Issues). has a strong showing at the FBLA Hugh Soltau, and Marcus Kassick (sixth State Leadership Conference so it will place in Banking & Financial Systems); Also, Benjamin Putnam, Maya be exciting to watch these students Rizkala, and Josue Rodriquez (team event) Zander Spear (sixth place in Economics); represent MMI at the competition.”

John Schwear (sixth place in Intro to (second place in Entrepreneurship); FBLA); Irene Altmiller (seventh place in Kai Mele (third place in Advertising); FBLA inspires and prepares students Advertising); Jessica Zheng (seventh place to become community-minded business Sandra Abdulrahman (third place in in Intro to Financial Math); Christian Intro to Business Communication); leaders in a global society through Badamo (seventh place in Journalism Olivia Bartholomew (third place in relevant career preparation and Management Decision Making); and Intro to Business Procedures); Marcus leadership experiences.

Julie Amentler, Kimberly Amentler, and Danchision, Noah Long, and Ethan Stine FBLA provides innovative leadership Lindsay Braunstein (seventh place in (team event) (third place in Sports and development programs to bring business Management Decision Making).

Entertainment Management); Morgan and education together in a positive Strecker (fourth place in Intro to Business Also, Jayden Bonham (eighth working relationship. Participation in Communication); Alexander Jordan, place in Intro to Business); Alexis Zola FBLA can have a direct impact on the Kevin McNulty, and Christian Yamulla and Alexandra Young (eighth place direction and success of a young person’s (team event) (fourth place in Marketing); in Entrepreneurship); Kaylee Witner career. Millions of students have learned and Harrison Kress, Katharine Pinto, and (ninth place in Intro to Business through active membership in FBLA Andrellie Puntiel (team event) (fourth Communication); Emely Lopezabout the world of business and what is place in Management Decision Making); Rodriquez (ninth place in Intro to FBLA); expected of them in the workplace.

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Kate Green reflects on 38 years of friendships and memories at MMI after announcing retirement After nearly four decades of teaching English at MMI, Mrs. Kathryn Green has announced she is retiring at the end of this school year. She says she is looking forward to traveling by train throughout Western Canada and visiting football stadiums across the country with her husband, Doug, who is a big professional football fan. Their Sheltie, Lily, will also go along for the ride.

Green began her career at MMI in the fall of 1981, moving here from Minnesota. She had no connections to Freeland or Northeastern Pennsylvania when she accepted the position but said she quickly grew to like the area.

“MMI was in need of a new English teacher so they used an agency that did teacher placements for independent schools. At the time, I was in my first teaching job at a boarding school in Minnesota. I happened to be looking for a new job. One of the teachers I worked with told me to research an agency that places teachers around the world. So I did and that’s how I found MMI,” she said.

Green graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1979 with a Bachelor’s Degree in secondary English education and earned her Masters’ in Education degree from Western Illinois University as a reading specialist.

Green was born in West Virginia but moved many times during her early childhood. “My dad was training to be an FBI agent when I was born so we moved all over, but eventually settled in the Chicago suburbs and that’s where I remember growing up. I was there from first grade through college,” she said.

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Once at MMI, Green became close friends with Sharon Rodriguez, MMI’s bookkeeper at that time, and someone suggested that she attend services at the Assembly of God Church. “It was different than the Methodist churches that I was used to and I found out that Dr. (David) Stiller and his family went there as well. So, I was going to that church and noticed a young man playing the drums. I learned that his name was Doug. One of my friends and I talked to Doug about going bowling on Wednesday night. The next day, I

told my friend at MMI that I had met the man I was going to marry. I’m not usually like that and I don’t have visions, but it was true.”

Green started at MMI under President Emeritus Joseph Rudawski in the fall of 1981 as an English and typing instructor.

“MMI never had electric typewriters for typing class. We went right from the big manual typewriters to word processing. We had big heavy desks that the typewriters were in and you could pull them up but you had to watch your fingers because you could get them pinched. I think it was during typing class when I began talking in a much louder voice from having to talk over the noise of the manual typewriters,” she said. Green has also taught speech at MMI. Green has taught every grade level at one time or another during her career except for one. “I never taught eighth grade but I have taught seventh grade every year since I started,” she said.

In speaking about the curriculum and how it has changed over the years, she said, “At the beginning and for 20 some years, I could teach whatever I wanted. In the last 10 years or so, the faculty have tried to align ourselves to make sure that we are not teaching the same things. Early on, I taught many grammar lessons. We did sentence diagraming and parts of speech and we hit that hard. It is different now and we try to do grammar instruction through writing. Now I say, ‘Isn’t this a much more interesting sentence than just subject, verb, and direct object?’”

Green has always had a love for animals. “I had three dogs, a lizard, and a rabbit,” she said. In fact, she brought the rabbit, named Ernie after Ernest Hemmingway, to school one day for part of a lesson she was teaching. “I was teaching Of Mice and Men where a character loved soft things. He wanted to have a rabbit and I said, ‘oh my gosh!

I have the perfect object lesson.’ I would bring Ernie in as the object lesson for that particular book and the students kept asking me to bring him in more. I

told the students it is difficult because I have a big cage that I also have to bring.

So, the students chipped in and bought me a cage for the classroom so all I had to do was carry Ernie back and forth.

Ernie wanted to see everybody because he was so friendly.” Ernie spent most of his 12 years of life going back and forth to class at MMI. When asked what she will miss about teaching, Green said she would miss planning what she is going to teach.

“I make it hard on myself because I create most of my work on my own.

I don’t teach from a workbook or a textbook, I look for my own activities.

So, Mrs. (Donna) Titus and Mrs. (Jennifer) Novotney use the Harkness Tables now and I’ve always liked doing little discussion groups so I’m really having a hoot having the students have discussions and listening to what they

will say if I just keep my mouth shut. It is really cool. So, the ability to design my own lessons is one of the things I have enjoyed. Even though I may be reading The Great Gatsby for the 40th time, the students are new to it and they bring fresh ideas, so I enjoy what they have to say.”

Green said she hopes to continue teaching from time to time as a substitute at MMI and would like to possibly teach a college course at a local campus.

However, the one thing Green said she would miss the most is the friends she has made at MMI. “One of the things that’s really great is that the MMI faculty is such a great family and we care so much about each other. MMI is pretty much my social life besides church. This school is a huge part of my life and I am going to sadly miss it.”

Reverend Barriger speaks about loving his MMI family and his plans to retire in May When MMI’s Middle School students report to school next fall, the one thing they may notice is a sign on the door of room 227 where Reverend Lawrence Barriger has taught Latin and Greek for the past 30 years.

The Barriger’s have two daughters, Laura and Lisa, who both attended and graduated from MMI in 2000 and 2004, respectively. Laura has two sons, Aiden, 8, and Logan, 5, and lives in Willow Grove near Philadelphia where Rev. Barriger and his wife are looking for a home so they can move close to their daughter and grandchildren.

“We are looking for a home right now in Willow Grove and hope to move down there in August,” he said. He officially retires as pastor of St. Michael’s on September 1.

If the sign is there, we expect it may say “Gone Fishin.”

That’s because Rev. Barriger has announced that this will be his last school year teaching at MMI as he is going to retire in May. His goal will be to spend time with his children and his two grandsons enjoying fishing on the banks of lakes and rivers, casting a line into the water, and hoping to land a bass or two.

As far as retiring this year, he said it’s not because he believed it was time, but unfortunately continued health issues gave him little choice. “I would have liked to stay another year or two, but my health tells me it is time to go now,” he said.

Affectionately known by students and fellow faculty members as “Rev,” he says his time at MMI has been nothing but absolutely wonderful. “I have been very blessed not only to have wonderful people at Saint Michael’s, but also to have been part of the MMI family for so many years. To all of us it’s not like going to work when we come in, it’s like coming to be with our other family. I see that relationship not only among teachers, and between faculty and administrators, but between teachers and the students as well. People here treat teaching as a vocation, not as a job. They do it because they love doing it and they love doing it here,” he said.

Rev. Barriger married his wife, Linda, in 1976 and just 20 days later was ordained an Orthodox Minister. He said that a man could become an Orthodox Minister if he is married, but cannot marry if he is ordained first. Rev. Barriger served as pastor of two parishes, one in New Jersey near Princeton and the other near Pittsburgh, for five years each before he was transferred to St. Michael’s Orthodox Church in Freeland in 1986, where he has been pastor since then.

In addition to fishing, Rev. Barriger said he enjoys archery and shooting antique guns. He said he is teaching his grandsons archery as well. “I have always liked the outdoors,” he said. In addition to the outdoors, he said he enjoys reading and especially continuing to learn about history, one of his favorite subjects. In fact, one fellow faculty member commented that many of the teachers go to Rev. Barriger when they have a question about history.

Devoted to his students and his life’s calling, he could often be heard offering up a suitable Latin phrase in response to life’s situations. Rev. Barriger’s wit and wisdom will definitely be missed and fondly remembered at MMI.

Originally from Rochester, N.Y., Rev. Barriger graduated in 1976 with a degree from Christ the Savior Seminary. He then received a Bachelor of Science Cursu Classico (Latin and Greek) from St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, N.J., in 1978 before receiving another degree from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1981.

While Rev. Barriger will retire from teaching this year at MMI, he said he will continue teaching an online course for Christ the Savior Seminary which he has On Founders Day, Rev. Barriger would perform a gravesite rememberance service for Eckley B. and Sophia G. Coxe. been doing for many years.

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MMI announced the winners of its sixth grade science fair. Pictured are, first row, from left: Erica Schwear, Madelyn Young, Frederick Blaine, and David Yamulla. Second row: Joseph Mayernik, Bryce Radzwich, and Benjamin Gombeda.

MMI announces winners of sixth grade science fair Bryce Radzwich captured first place in MMI’s sixth grade science fair for his project “Protect Your Melon.”

David Yamulla captured second for his presentation entitled “Making Graphite Glow” and Frederick Blaine finished third for his demonstration of “What Kind of Potato Conducts Electricity Best?”

Benjamin Gombeda (“Snack Energy”), Erica Schwear (“The Vibration of Sound”), Joseph Mayernik (“Absorbency Rate of Paper Towels”), and Madelyn Young (“Which Local Soil Sample is Composed of the Most Rare-Earth Minerals?”) all received honorable mention awards.

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Other students and their projects included: John T. Ferry (“Which Water Produces the Most Growth?”), Ava Genetti (“What Drink Stains your Teeth the Most?”), Nora Herseim (“Which Hair Product Has the Best Hold?”), Gabriel Horvath (“Too Much Social Media?”), Cameron Kress (“Horse Power 0-60 Engine vs. Engine”), Alena Lombardo (“Which Gum Blows the Biggest Bubble?”), Serena Novotney (“Metal Rusting”), Rishi Patel (“5 Second Rule”), Yeleigny Paniagua (“What Paper Product Absorbs the Most?”), Christian Schulz (“Which Chocolate

Melts Faster?”), Caleb Skuba (“Vitamin Absorption”), Jayden Unger (“What Household Items Conduct Electricity?”), and Ryleigh Yanac (“Do Certain Groups Like Certain Types of Music?”).

Each year, MMI’s sixth grade students participate in the science fair, where projects are judged by members of the Science National Honor Society, faculty members, and Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science participants.

Above, Bryce Radzwich captured first place in MMI’s sIxth grade science fair for his project, “Protect Your Melon.” At left, David Yamulla finished second for his presentation entitled “Making Graphite Glow.”

MMI purchases 35 new lab coats with donation

A generous and anonymous donor funded the purchase of all new lab coats for the Science Department this winter. MMI purchased a new rolling rack and hangers for storage, 35 new unisex 37-inch button-front white lab coats, and one “technicolor dream coat” for Chemistry Instructor Melissa McHale.

MMI will hold Vistation Night April 22, Entrance Exam May 16 arts curriculum. Your child will MMI will hold a Vistation thrive in a supportive studentNight on Wednesday, April 22 at centered environment, focused on 6 p.m. and an Entrance Exam on character development and 21st Saturday, May 16 at 9 a.m. at the century citizenship which allows school. every student to maximize their During Visitation Night, families potential,” MMI Head of School will learn more about how an MMI Justin Kleinheider said. “We invite education maximizes a student’s you to visit MMI and see how we academic, social, and character can help your student chart a path potential in preparation for success During MMI’s Visitation Night, families can discover how an MMI education can set their children up for to lifelong learning.” in college and beyond. As parents Families of students entering and students tour the campus, they success in college and beyond, and sign up for the Entrance Exam. sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth will discover how MMI sets itself grades next year are especially apart from other schools with a encouraged to attend Visitation Night and consider starting strong curriculum that provides an integrated liberal arts their child in MMI’s middle school or as a freshman. program.

MMI operates on the principle that a quality education During the event, families will see how MMI gives should not be out of anyone’s financial reach. Currently, students a chance to grow and thrive through coursework more than 50 percent of MMI students receive some form that ensures a rigorous challenge along with many of need-based tuition assistance. The school offers generous opportunities for success. Parents and students will receive tuition assistance packages to qualified families, provides details about the school’s curriculum, including fine arts, merit aid for exceptionally gifted students, offers a summer cross-curricular opportunities, and Advanced Placement work-study program, provides options for payment plans, classes, as well as information on financial aid, athletics, and collaborates with outside firms to arrange for lowand extracurricular activities. Attendees will also have the interest student loans. opportunity to talk with current students, parents, faculty, For more information or to register, contact Marci Hosier and staff. at mhosier@mmiprep.org or (570) 636-1108. You can also “An MMI education leads students to discover their visit MMI’s website at www.mmiprep.org. passion for learning thorough an interdisciplinary liberal

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MMI using ExxonMobil grant to purchase a 3D printer The ExxonMobil MMI received a $500 Foundation is the primary grant from the ExxonMobil philanthropic arm of the Foundation that the school Exxon Mobil Corporation will use to purchase a in the United States. The new 3D printer for the foundation has a strategic science department. Liberty focus supporting education Petroleum Distributors with an emphasis on math and nominated the school for the science, promoting women grant. as catalysts for economic MMI purchased its development, and ending first 3-D printer in 2015 deaths from malaria. According following a donation from to its corporate website, the the Eschenbach family. That ExxonMobil Foundation same year, the school used focuses on math and science ExxonMobil grant money to education because they are purchase a form scanner and the universal languages of the the associated software for global workplace and critical the printer.

MMI received a $500 ExxonMobil Foundation grant for its science and technology departments through a nomination from Liberty tools for success in today’s highThroughout the past four Petroleum Distributors. Pictured are, from left: John Parduski, tech world. years, MMI students have Liberty Petroleum used the printer to complete a District Manager at Liberty Petroleum Distributors, and Justin Kleinheider, MMI Head of School.

Distributors and its affiliates are variety of projects, including technology and see the many ways the now involved in the operations reproducing ancient artifacts science of 3D printing can enhance our of more than 22 retail travel centers, gas for a mid-school history class, modeling world today.” stations, and quick-service restaurants. and printing trigonometric equations Since the program’s inception in Today, Liberty Petroleum Distributors for an upper school mathematics course, 2011, MMI has received more than also provides travelers with comfortable virtually building and then printing $6,000 in ExxonMobil grant money and affordable hotel accommodations. models of molecules and anatomic through Liberty Petroleum Distributors.

On the petroleum end, the company structures for chemistry and biology The funds helped the school purchase provides retail and wholesale distribution courses and designing and building several items for its math, science, and of Exxon, Mobil, and Sunoco branded components for robots in the robotics technology departments, including petroleum products to transportation and engineering classes. a digital incubator and complete a companies, travel plazas, and gas Michael Mele, chair of the MMI collaborative project between the stations. Its retail services include Science Department, said, “We are Marine Biology and Robotics classes operating numerous convenience stores, fortunate to have the opportunity to where students worked toward building as well as Subway, Burger King, and Tim purchase a new 3D printer through Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicles Horton’s restaurants and tobacco stores this grant. This printer will allow (ROVs). throughout Pennsylvania. our students to experiment with new

Drama Club performs An Evening of One-Act Comedies V

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The Upper School Drama Club performed An Evening of One-Act Comedies V on December 13 and 14 in the cafeteria. The entire Prepper Playhouse will present the spring musical on April 24 and 25 at 7 p.m.

Generous donations help MMI upgrade Coxe Commons MMI recently gave the Coxe Commons a facelift!

Through generous donations from Dr. Philip McHale ’58 and Ms. Linda Tishko, the MMI Parents Association, and the Class of 2019, MMI worked with Deb Stone Interiors to create a collaborative space for student and guest use that showcases our school colors and creates a sense of pride-of-place. After review of the design by school administration, design boards were presented to the faculty, student council, and Parents Association, and displayed in the Commons for several weeks. Work began in late December with the final furniture installation being done in early January.

Mid-School grandparents and grandfriends visit MMI

Mid-School Grandparents and Grandfriends Day was held on Tuesday, December 3. MMI welcomed 74 guests who attended lunch, class, and advisory with the middle school students.

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MMI announces 2020 Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership ambassadors students from across the state MMI sophomores with diverse leadership styles Alain Benitez and and backgrounds; conduct a Connor Spencer were community service project selected to represent to put leadership-for-service MMI at the 2020 skills into action; and open Central Pennsylvania opportunities for internships, Hugh O’Brian Youth mentorship programs, and Leadership (HOBY) other HOBY Ambassadors Seminar, which will Connect benefits. be held May 14-17 After each seminar, at Shippensburg HOBY alumni are challenged University. Sophomore to complete 100 hours of Andrew Blasko was Sophomores, from left, Alain Benitez and Connor Spencer will represent community service within selected as an alternate.

MMI as ambassadors at the 2020 Central Pennsylvania Hugh O’Brian the next year as a way to put Each spring, 10,000 high school sophomores Youth Leadership (HOBY) Seminar. Also pictured at right is HOBY alternate their passion and newly-built Andrew Blasko. leadership skills into action. from across the country an inspiring Leadership Seminar based As America’s foremost join one of HOBY’s on three leadership perspectives: youth leadership organization, HOBY 70 State Leadership Seminars to hone Personal, Group, and Societal. As many has a long history of successfully their leadership talents and apply them as 300 “ambassadors” from high schools motivating young people to develop to become effective, ethical leaders in across the state or country gather at their into outstanding leaders. Much of the their home, school, workplace, and local HOBY State Leadership Seminar work at HOBY involves young people community. The leadership programs between April and June to: experience exploring and identifying their unique are designed to prepare students to life on a university campus; interact with leadership skills. Through a program that turn their ideas and goals into reality. local community leaders—from CEOs stresses self-knowledge, uniqueness, and Each program adheres to the five core to business owners to doctors to media authenticity, not conformity, students HOBY values: Volunteerism, Integrity, experts—through panels, presentations, learn to mobilize their own unique traits Excellence, Diversity, and Community and group discussions about real-world and are exposed to particular leadership Partnership. issues; participate in hands-on activities principles that they can explore and MMI selects two students through to explore and exercise leadership on incorporate in a fashion that is true to an essay-based application process to personal and group levels; form diverse their own personality. represent the school at the seminar. relationships with adult professionals, At HOBY, high school sophomores college-age mentors, and high school build their leadership potential through

MMI announces “Best of the Best” winner for the first semester

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Senior Benjamin Putnam captured first place in MMI’s “Best of the Best” competition for the first semester of the 2019-2020 academic year.

As part of the biannual competition, 10th and 12th grade students delivered presentations during an all-school assembly. Ninth and 11th grade students will make their presentations in the second semester.

Putnam won the contest with his presentation entitled “Rules of Language.”

Sophomore Rachael Betz discussed “Forensic Science.”

Senior Catherine Havrilla demonstrated “How to Improve Your Singing Voice.”

Sophomore Connor Spencer presented on “The Limits of Energy.”

The “Best of the Best” assembly program, which is part of the MMI curriculum, is designed to help students improve and enhance their communication skills, important skills as they progress through high school, college, and beyond.

The best student performances are presented twice a year to a joint assembly of both upper school and middle school students.

MMI faculty members grade the presentations to determine the “Best of the Best.”

Benjamin Putnam, pictured at left in the second row, captured MMI’s “Best of the Best” competition for the first semester. Also pictured are, first row, from left: Rachael Betz and Catherine Havrilla. Second row at right: Connor Spencer.

Parents, alumni, friends gather for MMI Mid-Winter Social

MMI hosted their annual Mid-Winter Social at Valley Country Club on Wednesday, February 21. A great time was had by all who attended!

Middle School hosts annual Bring a Friend to School Day

On January 21, MMI played host to 29 student visitors during Bring a Friend to School Day. Middle school students brought friends to class and enjoyed a dress down day. Students experienced making slime, a demo of elephant toothpaste, wrote rap songs in music, calculated the loan interest on a vehicle, and so much more!

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12

For more information contact Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at (570) 636-1108 or kmcnulty@mmiprep.org.

Did you know individuals can designate their Pennsylvania tax dollars to support MMI scholarships? approval. After approval and confirmation from the state, the Eligible individuals, or small businesses, can receive a Central PA Scholarship Fund will notify the SPE members that 90% tax credit on their PA tax liability by becoming part of they have 60 days to submit their contribution in full. Checks a Special Purpose Entity (SPE) which helps students and their are written to the specific SPE designated by the Central PA families afford MMI. Participating in this program enables Scholarship Fund, and are mailed directly to the Central PA donors to multiply their donation 10 times for the same outScholarship Fund offices of-pocket costs and in Tyrone. The fund supports MMI’s needthen completes necessary based tuition assistance paperwork and forwards program! It is truly a 100% of your donation WIN/WIN program. on to MMI. In early 2021, For example: Tom participants will receive tax Taxpayer generally credit notices (K-1 Forms) makes a $500 gift to for use when they prepare MMI’s annual fund and both their federal and state in 2020 he estimates 2020 tax returns. he will owe $4,500 in Minimum contribution PA taxes. He joins a to participate in this plan special purpose entity by is $3,500 per taxpayer. making a contribution Higher earning taxpayers of $5,000 to the SPE. may contribute more, He then receives a 90% up to the full amount of tax credit on his SPE their PA tax liability. In contribution, resulting order to participate, you in a $4,500 tax credit.

MMI Preparatory School received a $1,000 contribution from FNCB Bank or your spouse must be The tax credit reduces through the Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program that the employed by a company his PA tax liability to school will use to support need-based scholarships for students. FNCB Vice in Pennsylvania. If you $0. Thus, in effect, since President Mike Cummings said, “Since 2010, FNCB has contributed more Tom Taxpayer had to pay than $1.6 million to local educational and scholarship organizations through are retired, you can still the EITC initiative and our larger Community Caring initiative.” participate in this program his $4,500 PA taxes no as long as you own stock in matter what, it has cost him $500 out of pocket to make a $5,000 donation to MMI by a business that operates in the state of Pennsylvania.

Paperwork for this program is very easy. MMI’s redirecting his PA tax liability to need-based scholarships at Advancement Office will send you a Joinder Form. It asks for our school. Since his annual fund donation is generally $500 the donor’s name, address and social security number, and he has now magnified his annual fund gift 10x and made a the amount you wish to contribute, and the school which you $5,000 scholarship contribution. are designating as the recipient of your scholarship donation.

We are looking for individuals who pay at least $3,500 in The form does not ask for income information or copies of Pennsylvania taxes. It is also possible for certain businesses, tax returns. The amount you agree to contribute is due in full corporations, partnerships, insurance companies and banks to within 60 days of receiving confirmation/approval from the participate. Even if you are not qualified yourself – you may Central PA Scholarship Fund. know someone who is. Please help us to meet people who The information presented here is intended as a general are eligible and eager to partner with us in this scholarship overview of Pennsylvania’s EITC program, and is not to be program! considered tax advice. Situations vary, and we urge donors MMI is able to take part in this special EITC program to consult with their accountant or tax professional before through the Central PA Scholarship Fund, established by joining this program. Please call or e-mail Kim McNulty, MMI Randy Tarpey, a CPA with offices in Tyrone, PA. The fund collects individual SPE applications on behalf of MMI, bundles Director of Advancement, at (570) 636-1108 or kmcnulty@ mmiprep.org if you have any questions or would like more them into SPEs, and submits the SPE to the PA Department information. of Community and Economic Development for tax credit

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MMI holds annual Founders Day ceremony MMI students honored their school’s founder, Eckley Brinton Coxe, and his wife, Sophia Georgianna Coxe, during an assembly at the school and graveside service in November, giving thanks for the Coxes’ contributions to the school and the area.

An all-school assembly was held in the MMI cafeteria, where senior class officers presented information about MMI’s history. At the conclusion of the assembly, the senior class 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.

MMI also welcomed back young alumni from the last four graduating years to visit with faculty, staff, and students in the Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center. MMI Head of School Justin Kleinheider said, “Celebrating our history shows our school and local community how we carry on the vision of the Coxes to prepare students for life. More than 140 years later, we still live the mission of providing a rigorous MMI senior Kai Mele, far right, places a wreath on the graves of MMI’s founder, Eckley Coxe and his wife, Sophia Coxe, as MMI instructor Rev. Lawrence Barriger, far left, and education to and building character in members of the senior class look on during MMI’s annual Founders Day ceremony. area students.”

MMI’s young alumni returned to the school for the Founders 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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Mock Trial team competes in District competition The MMI Mock Trial team competed in the District competition at the Luzerne County Courthouse on January 27 and 28.

The team made the MMI community proud with their poised and eloquent presentations of the case material in the courtroom in front of The Honorable Thomas Burke and The Honorable Correale Stevens, father of MMI alumni Brody Stevens ’98 and Ryan Stevens ’01.

Retired MMI faculty member and former Mock Trial advisor Señor Dennis Clarke served as Bailiff.

On the first night of competition the students made a strong presentation. Junior Noah Long took home Best Witness Above, The Honorable Correale Stevens, pictured at center, posed with MMI Mock Trial members honors and Best Attorney accolades at the Luzerne County Courthouse. Pictured are, first row, from left: Jessica Zhang and Hannah went to junior Lindsay Braunstein. Falatko. Second row: Mrs. Cheryl Bayo, Mock Trial Advisor; Kyle Kim; Mr. Dennis Clarke, Retired On the second evening, MMI won MMI Mock Trial Advisor and Bailiff; Jillian McGeehin; Natalie Graham; Hiba Muhammad; and Juliana Salio. Pictured below, Jessica Zhang, Jilliam McGeehin, and Juliana Salio. their trial against Blue Mountain High School. The Best Witness was freshman Jillian McGeehin and Best Attorney was junior Natalie Graham.

Advisor Mrs. Cheryl Bayo commented, “I am very proud of the way our Mock Trial team worked together to make a fabulous showing. All of our students conducted themselves in a manner of which MMI can be very proud. They truly exemplified how an MMI education can create confident public speakers. We are looking forward to next season with the enthusiasm that we strengthened our team during the two nights of competition and we expect our improved technical knowledge will garner us greater successes in future competitions.”

The team would also like to extend their thanks and acknowledge the help of MMI parent and Luzerne County Manager, C. David Pedri, Esq. Mr. Pedri helped get the team ready to compete and served as MMI’s attorney advisor.

Thank you also to attorneys Morgan Palermo ’09 and Stephen Palubinsky ’07 for their efforts to support MMI Mock Trial.

Todd Schell

(continued from page 1)

spent some quality time with Joleen and their two young children.

simple and reliable patch management continues to be a major requirement for companies of all sizes.”

In 2003 he was bit again by the company start-up bug and Schell spent nine years as a System Engineer for CoreTrace Corporation. Starting with a series of company mergers from 2012 through 2017, he has served in the continuous role of product manager where, today at Ivanti, he works as Senior Product Manager for Ivanti’s patch-related components.

Schell and Dr. Beltrami, a retired professor, former department chair, and MMI’s 2015 Commencement speaker, reside in San Antonio, TX, and have played host to a number of student gatherings when MMI’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) competitors have been in Texas for the National Conference. They have two grown children, Austin and Madison, and son-in-law Spencer.

Schell describes the company he works for in this way: “Ivanti provides software products to optimize the efficiency of your IT staff. We have some of the best asset management, service desk, security, and endpoint management products in the industry and we are bringing them together under unified IT. As for my part, I work in the security industry where

Schell commented, “As I look back on my career there are two recurring themes that contributed to my success. I want the Class of 2020 to understand if they surround themselves with good people and contribute their best to achieve the goals of the group, they are almost guaranteed success.”

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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 community raised more than $1,300 in support of Coaches vs. Cancer! The Coaches vs. Cancer program is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches. This initiative leverages the personal experiences, community leadership, and professional excellence of coaches nationwide to increase cancer awareness and promote healthy living through year-round awareness efforts, fundraising activities, and advocacy programs. Since 1993, coaches and their teams have raised more than $100 million for the American Cancer Society.

On November 21, Bloomsburg University’s Nurse Anesthesia program directors and students visited MMI’s Upper School Science classes.

In seventh grade English class, students created a report using a decorated hat based on a character in a free reading assignment and then presented their projects to the class.

Members of the English Department participated in the National Council of Teachers of English Annual Convention in Baltimore, Maryland. Pictured below are, from left, Mrs. Kathryn Green, Mrs. Jennifer Novotney, Mrs. Laurie Mele, and Mrs. Donna Titus. They joined thousands of educators, authors, administrators, publishers, and others at the convention with a theme of “Spirited Inquiry” where they were able to participate in many sessions on teaching literacy, language, and composition.

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Chinese Language students prepared projects representing the Chinese Zodiac and displayed them in the Commons. They also held a bake sale and Ramen bar on January 31. Junior Aaron Haber took the top vote in his class for best project, which is pictured above.

Around Campus

(Continued)

The Interact Club collected items for the Operation: CAN DO Drive. Items collected were provided to the Freeland American Legion to make care packages for military service members with ties to the Greater Hazleton area who were stationed abroad for the holidays. Seniors Emily Ankiewicz and Jessica Flynn, members of MMI’s Interact Club, also helped out at bell ringing with the Hazleton Rotary Club and the Salvation Army’s Kettle Campaign at the Hazleton Walmart. They were joined by many other Rotarians including MMI alums Lew Dryfoos ’82 and Alan Whitaker ’83. Interact is a service organization for high school students who desire to volunteer their time and aid school and community. MMI’s Interact Club is sponsored by Hazleton Rotary, Freeland Rotary, and Rotary International.

The German Language program hosted a Gingerbread contest this winter at the school. The German Church placed first, the Up House took second, and the MMI Christmas Carol was the third-place winner. Students in the German Language classes also visited the Moravian Archives where they learned German Script Writing, had lunch at Mama Nina’s, and spent time at the Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, PA, in early December.

Students in Mrs. Donna Titus’ eleventh grade Hero’s In Literature Class shared their hero stories in the library after enjoying some homemade bread and jam.

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Around Campus

(Continued)

Students studying Spanish Language created piñatas and sombreros representing Spanishspeaking countries and incorporated the story of Los Tres Reyes (The Three Kings) into their presentation to the faculty, students, and guests from the Hazleton Integration Project After School Scholars Program. MMI students gifted the students from HIP a piñata of their own (made by junior Jimmy Kelly) filled with candy.

Students then voted for their favorite designs.

Junior Christian Badamo, pictured at left, won the sombrero contest, while the piñata contest was won by sophomore Sandra Abdulrahman, pictured at right. Also pictured is Spanish instructor Mrs. Syra Dewar.

Senior Alexander Jordan, in the photo at right, has committed to continue his baseball and academic careers at Marywood University. Also pictured are, seated, his parents Robert and Teresa Jordan, and brother, Zachary Jordan. Standing are, from left: Vincent Vella, MMI Athletic Director; Justin Kleinheider, MMI Head of School; and Ryan Jastremsky, MMI Head Baseball Coach.

A team of students placed third in the King’s College Math Contest. Senior Benjamin Putnam, second from left in photo below, was the top scorer for MMI and earned a book and $500 scholarship. Also pictured are team members junior Darren Zheng and junior Louis DeAngelo, and advisor Susan Moyer.

Senior Benjamin Putnam qualified for the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District Orchestra Festival as well as the PMEA District Band Festival. Ben placed first on string bass to secure his place in both festivals. After attending PMEA District 9 Orchestra Festival, Putnam has qualified to attend the Northeast Regional Orchestra Festival in March.

MMI’s music program had a busy holiday season. The Chamber Ensemble performed at the CAN DO Community Christmas (photo below) on December 4. The MMI Holiday Concert was held at the school on December 10 where students in grades 6-12 provided holiday selections for both strings and chorus. On December 15, MMI Chamber Ensemble and Singers performed at the Freeland Presbyterian Church Carol Fest.

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MMI Middle School students heard from Trooper Petroski of Troop N in Hazleton about online safety, privacy settings, and cyberbullying in November.

Alumni Notes

What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe

Alexandra Baj ’88 named partner at Washington, D.C. law firm Alexandra Baj ’88 was recently elected partner at Steptoe & Johnson LLP, based in the firm’s Washington, D.C. office.

Baj focuses her practice on export controls, economic sanctions, anti-corruption investigations and compliance, international trade, and security clearance issues.

She has represented clients in the defense, aerospace, Jacob Daniels ’11, right, took the time to show current MMI junior Kevin McNulty around the campus at his alma mater, Rochester Institute of Technology, and joined him for a Tigers hockey game!

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania baseball team recently hosted the program’s second annual Baseball Career Night at Jamison Elementary School in Jamison, PA. The event allowed current BU baseball players to network with university alumni and other team-affiliated mentors as they prepare for professional careers. Edward Herbener ’16, is a finance major and one of the 30 Bloomsburg University student-athletes who participated in the event on January 8.

Attorney Harry Carl Schaub ’46 was presented with a 201920 Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by Marquis Who’s Who. Attorney Schaub was awarded this honor based upon his career longevity, philanthropic endeavors, and lasting contributions to society and was featured in the Wall Street Journal on November 27, 2019.

Tiffany Pandolfo-Gwilliam ’94 was featured in Lafayette College Magazine. The feature chronicled Gwilliam’s impassioned talk titled “Women with Grit vs. The Third Leading Cause of Death” at Wilmington’s TEDx conference.

Several MMI alumni earned Dean’s List honors this past fall including: Madeline Dryfoos ’19 (Susquehanna University), Anna Haber ’18 (University of Scranton), Kayla Leonard ’17 (McDaniel College), Olivia Minzola ’17 (Bloomsburg), Mahad Muhammad ’18 (University of Scranton), Emily Mundorf ’19 (Bloomsburg), Anna Olivieri ’17 (Bloomsburg), Karalyn Sitch ’16 (Immaculata University), Julia Snyder ’18 (University of Scranton), Ethan Warner ’19 (Wilkes), Cole Wenner ’18 (Wilkes), Matthew Yurish ’13 (Bloomsburg), and Stephanie Zellner ’18 (St. Joseph’s University).

software, metals, lumber, nuclear, capital equipment, telecommunications, medical, and food processing industries.

Baj earned her J.D., with honors, from the University of Chicago and her B.A., magna cum laude, from Kenyon College.

Hazleton Rotarian and MMI Board of Directors Vice Chairman Llewellyn Dryfoos III ’82, pictured at center, spoke at a weekly luncheon meeting of Hazleton Rotary on February 5.

He discussed Cyber Liability in Business with the group. Also in the photo are, from left: Rotary President Elect Donna Barna and Rotary President Alan Whitaker ’83.

Young alumni from the Class of 2019 returned to MMI on January 7 to share their first-semester college experience with the Class of 2020 in a panel setting. Pictured above are, from left to right: Daniel DeMelfi ’19, Jessica McClellan ’19, Ethan Warner ’19, Madeline Dryfoos ’19, Kaitlyn McGeehan ’19 and Mrs. Sara Myers, Interim College Counselor.

Engagements Francis Swankoski III ’11 is engaged to Joyce Phelan. Swankoski is a 2015 graduate of University of Scranton with a B.S in Chemistry-Business and earned his Doctorate of Pharmacy from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia in 2019. He is a pharmacist for CVS Pharmacy in Philadelphia. Phelan is a graduate of Warwick Valley High School (NY) and The University of Scranton with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.

She is an Occupational therapist for Mercy Health Systems in Philadelphia. The couple will exchange vows in August 2020.

They currently reside in Wynnewood, PA.

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Milestones

Events in the lives of the MMI family Deaths

Victor “Bud” Diehm Jr. ’61 passed away on December 26, 2019. He is survived by his wife, Linda; son Chris and his wife Florentina; son Eric; daughter Lori Holcombe and her husband, John; six grandchildren; two great grand-children; sister Elizabeth Bernstein and her husband, Richard; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews; including great-nephew Andrew Decker ’19.

Peter Frask passed away on January 8, 2020. He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Frask; companion, Mary Lou Meister; his children, Randy and his wife, Robin; Corey and his wife, Hope; Terri and her husband, Tyson Rodgers; and five grandchildren, including Carter Frask ’20.

William C. Kirschner ’61 passed away on February 16, 2018.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons William Kirschner and his wife, Jennifer; and Bradley Kirschner and his wife, Michelle; daughter, Kiri Kirschner; and grandchildren, Emily, Will, Ethan, and Ally.

Leo Ravina ’45 passed away on December 13, 2019. He is survived by his wife, Cecelia; his children Lee Ann Boran and her partner, Peter Haentjens; JoAnn Orlando and her husband, Gary; John Ravina and his wife, Diane; and James Ravina and his wife, Joanne; seven grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews including Dr. Robert Lutz ’63.

Mrs. Anna Yoncoski passed away on January 13, 2020. She is survived by her husband, John; daughters Mary Ann Haupt and her husband, David; Carol Valanoski and her partner, Stephen Roman; and Darlene Dimm; and 10 grandchildren including Zachary Haupt ’10 and Alexis Haupt ’13.

Mrs. Sally R. Young passed away on January 16, 2020.She is survived by her husband, Dennis; daughter Beth Gabel and her husband, William; son, Duane Young; and grandsons Corrigan Nolasco ’25 and Kaiden Nolasco.

Dr. Cipriano Canosa Martinez passed away on February 4, 2020. He was the father of MMI World Language Instructor Syra Dewar, who survives him along with her husband, Alec, and three children, including Ian Dewar ’19 and Nathan Dewar ’23.

Leona Dei Tos passed away on February 11, 2020. Preceding her in death was her husband, James, in 2019 and her siblings Margaret Motyl, John Koval, Cecilia Koval, and Joseph Wisniewski. She is survived by her brother, William Wisniewski; sons Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and his wife, Patricia, and James and his wife, Susan; granddaughters Nina Zanon ’01 and her husband, Scott, Maria Wirjosemito ’05 and her husband, Adam, and Gabrielle Giuliano ’08 and her husband, Bradley; and great-granddaughters Cecelia and Olivia Zanon.

Edward Sharp ’36, oldest living alumnus, dies at 100

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MMI’s eldest living alum, Edward M. Sharp ’36, passed away on February 8, 2020, at Providence Place at the age of 100 years old. A life-long resident of Freeland, he was valedictorian of his MMI Preparatory School class, graduated Magnum Cum Laude from Lehigh University, where he had been elected to Phi Beta Kapa and Tau Beta Pi national honor societies, and received his master’s degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration.

Sharp served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and attained the rank of lieutenant colonel. He was honorably discharged after five years of service, having been in the European Theater for three and a half years. He was awarded the European African Middle Eastern Medal with one Battle Star, the Legion of Merit medal, and many other citations and decorations.

For a number of years, he was the managing partner of Sharp’s Bakery and retired as vice president of Citterio USA Corp. Sharp was instrumental in bringing Citterio to Freeland and helping to create more than 400 local jobs. He was a member of the Board of Directors of Citizens Bank, the Advisory Board of First Valley Bank, and the Board of the Greater Hazleton Improvement Fund. Active in community affairs, Sharp was general chairman of Freeland’s “Jobs For Men” fund campaign, Freeland’s biggest drive in terms of contributions and funds raised. He served as the first president of the Freeland Industrial Development Corp., was the treasurer for more than 50 years, and was past president and a longtime board member of the YMCA. Sharp was elected to the MMI Board of Directors in 1964 and served the School for two decades in that capacity,

including time as the chairman from 1980-83. He also played a leadership role in several capital and annual fund campaigns at MMI and was inducted into the Wall of Fame for Service to MMI in 2009. He was a member of the MMI Honorary Board and, with his wife, established The Edward ’36 and Lorraine Sharp Endowed Scholarship at MMI. He was also the past president of the Freeland Rotary Club and was named a Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of his service. He was a recipient of the Outstanding Citizens Award, given by the Freeland Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5010, the Freeland Sons of Erin, and the Freeland Jaycees.

Sharp was the past president of the Hazleton Bridge Club, a club director certified by the American Contract Bridge League, and achieved the rank of life master through play in sanctioned tournament competition. He was piano accompanist for the Freeland men’s chorus and other vocal and instrumental groups. Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, were his wife, the former Lorraine Moyer, in 2017; a sister, Lucetta Alderfer; and sisters-inlaw, Dolores Buchman and Marilyn Moyer. Surviving are a brother, James W. Sharp ’42; a brother-in-law, Richard Moyer; and many nieces and nephews. Also surviving, and deserving of a special thank you for the dedication and expert care given to him, is his caregiver of five years, Terri Dinkelacker.

Memorials

Library Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between Nov. 1, 2019 and Feb. 21, 2020

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

In Memory of James K. Conahan ’68 Dr. Thomas J. Conahan III ’59 and Mrs. Catherine Conahan

In Memory of Ed Abrams ’62 Mr. Benjamin Abrams ’96 and Ms. Patricia Abrams

In Memory of Thomas Conahan ’26 and Eugenia Conahan Dr. Thomas J. Conahan III ’59 and Mrs. Catherine Conahan

In Memory of Irving Abrams ’30 Mr. Benjamin Abrams ’96 and Ms. Patricia Abrams In Memory of Richard C. Abrams ’60 Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams In Memory of Simon Abrams ’30 Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams In Memory of Peter and Stella Amentler Dr. John Amentler ’67 and Mrs. Kristine Amentler In Memory of Gemma and Andrew Arnoldi Mr. Andrew Arnoldi ’63 and Mrs. Judith Arnoldi

In Memory of Patrick Dinofrio ’63 Mr. John Hollis ’64 and Mrs. Carol Hollis Mr. Michael Urenovich ’64 and Mrs. Mary Urenovich

In Memory of Courtenay J. Corrigan Mr. John J. Corrigan ’63

In Memory of August DiSpirito ’38 Mr. Pat DiSpirito ’44 and Mrs. Jean DiSpirito

In Memory of Dr. John J. Coyle Atty. John Coyle ’87 and Atty. Julie Coyle

In Memory of Vincent DiSpirito ’42 Mr. Pat DiSpirito ’44 and Mrs. Jean DiSpirito

In Memory of Mrs. Robert Curlette Mrs. Maurice Ferry

In Memory of Peter Donish Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Kushma II

In Memory of Joseph Curto ’00 Mr. and Mrs. James Curto In Honor of Jeffrey DeAngelo ’23 Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens

In Memory of Louis and Alexandra Betley Mr. Gregory Betley ’70 and Mrs. Anne Marie Lesniak-Betley

In Honor of Louis DeAngelo ’21 Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens

In Memory of Kim Byriel Ms. Julia Byriel In Memory of Dr. Cipriano Canosa Martinez Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Cusat

In Memory of Adam and Mary Dinko Mr. James Senape III ’91, Mrs. Kimberly Warner-Senape, and Family

In Honor of Eve Corazza ’25 Mr. James A. Corazza ’73 and Mrs. Karen Sandrock Corazza Mrs. Laura A. Corazza

In Memory of Mary Ann Bellizia Mr. Thomas Bellizia

In Memory of Lambert E. Broad Mrs. Mary E. Mertz

In Memory of Victor Diehm Mrs. Anne J. Frey

In Memory of Thomas Deisroth ’60 Dr. Robert Kettrick ’60 and Mrs. Eileen Kettrick In Memory of James Dei Tos Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto Jr. ’79 and Atty. Faith DiLiberto

In Memory of Ambabai and Mahadev Chikarmane Dr. Ajit Chikarmane and Dr. Kalpana Chikarmane

In Memory of Leona Dei Tos Mr. and Mrs. Daniel DeMelfi Mr. William R. Dooner Mr. Llewellyn Dryfoos III ’82 and Mrs. Maura Dryfoos Mrs. Kathleen Fornataro Mr. Matthew Fornataro ’01 Mr. and Mrs. Brian Lutz

In Honor of Alexander Composto ’25 Mr. and Mrs. Mark M. Brasavage

In Memory of Gertrude DeMelfi Mr. and Mrs. Anthony R. Cusat Miss Stephanie R. Zellner ’18

In Memory of Walter Dryfoos ’59 Dr. Jay Apfelbaum ’58 and Mrs. Harriet Apfelbaum In Memory of Robert Edmunds ’56 Dr. Thomas Edmunds ’62 and Mrs. Pamela Edmunds In Memory of Simon Faltz Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer In Memory of Patrick A. Fiero Jr. Mrs. Lynn Gorski In Honor of Reed Floryshak ’24 Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens In Memory of Athena Ford ’01 Mr. James Blaum and Ms. Karen Petrosky-Blaum ’01 Marquis George MacDonald Foundation, Inc. In Memory of Dr. Thomas Gillespie ’57 Dr. Jay Apfelbaum ’58 and Mrs. Harriet Apfelbaum In Memory of Ira Goldberg ’64 Dr. John Feussner ’64 and Mrs. Carol Blessing-Feussner

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Additional memorials In Memory of Louise M. Gower Mr. Edgar Gower ’73 and Mrs. Joan Gower

In Memory of George Kostick ’64 Dr. John Feussner ’64 and Mrs. Carol Blessing-Feussner

In Honor of Ben Putnam ’20 Mr. Alfred Senape ’63 and Mrs. Marilyn Senape

In Memory of Robert Graham ’60 Mr. Edward Letchak ’61 and Mrs. Catherine Letchak

In Memory of Crystal Loftus Mr. John Hollis ’64 and Mrs. Carol Hollis

In Memory of Scott Graham ’84 Mr. Brian Ayers and Mrs. Cynthia Ayers ’84 Mr. Rusty Cassway and Mrs. Karen Cassway ’84

In Memory of John Lukak ’64 Dr. John Feussner ’64 and Mrs. Carol Blessing-Feussner In Memory of Alvan Lynn ’55 Mrs. Patricia J. Lynn

In Memory of Leo Ravina ’45 Mr. and Mrs. Edward Barna Mr. and Dr. Joseph Maduro Mr. Dan Ravina Mr. James Ravina and Mrs. Bonnie Ravina ’82 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer Mr. Alfred Senape ’63 and Mrs. Marilyn Senape The Dei Tos Family

In Memory of Jules Mason ’32 Roman-Mason Foundation

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

In Memory of Arthur Maurer ’38 Mr. Christopher Maurer

In Honor of Joseph Rudawski Mr. John Bishop and Dr. Jennifer Maranki ’95

In Memory of David Gundling ’68 Mrs. Judy Gundling In Memory of Walter D. Haentjens ’39 Mr. Gavin P. Haentjens ’94 and Ms. Maggie Slye Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens In Memory of Bob Jones ’48 Mrs. Harriet Jones Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis

In Memory of Very Reverend Gary Mensinger Mr. Paul D. Lesser ’73 In Memory of Cindy Merenich Mr. Michael Merenich

In Memory of Wilmot Jones ’45 Mrs. Harriet Jones

In Memory of Thomas Merrick ’51 Mr. Edward R. Merrick ’54

In Honor of Audrey M. Laputka Ms. Kerry J. Laputka ’91

In Honor of Amanda Neidlinger ’98 Mrs. Shirley Neidlinger

In Honor of Theodore R. Laputka Sr. Ms. Kerry J. Laputka ’91

In Honor of Nathaniel Neidlinger ’24 Mrs. Shirley Neidlinger

In Honor of Fred Mejia ’19 Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Mejia

In Memory of Nicholas Nemesh Mr. William E. Genetti ’80 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer Mr. William P. Steward ’72

In Memory of David Kanuck ’64 Dr. John Feussner ’64 and Mrs. Carol Blessing-Feussner In Memory of Daniel Kimmel Mrs. Helen Kimmel In Memory of William Kirschner ’61 Mrs. Barbara Kirschner In Memory of Margaret Koslap Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer

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(Continued from page 21)

In Honor of Keenan Overa ’17 Mr. and Mrs. Leonard E. Sabol In Honor of Katelyn Overa ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Leonard E. Sabol In Honor of Desiree Pettrick ’19 Mr. John R. Petrick In Honor of Ava Putnam ’23 Mr. Alfred Senape ’63 and Mrs. Marilyn Senape

In Honor of Joseph and Regina Rudawski Mr. James Stradnick ’77 In Memory of William K. Rudewick ’42 and Louisie Rudewick Mr. and Mrs. James M. Biello In Memory of Attorney Pasco Schiavo Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto Jr. ’79 and Atty. Faith DiLiberto In Memory of Joseph Seaman Atty. Joseph J. Seaman ’68 In Memory of Lucille Schmitt Dr. Ashley E. Morrison ’05 In Memory of Robert Seitzinger ’38 Mr. Richard Seitzinger ’70 and Mrs. Linda Seitzinger In Memory of William Seitzinger ’56 Mr. Richard Seitzinger ’70 and Mrs. Linda Seitzinger In Memory of Bernadette Senape Atty. James V. Senape Jr. Mr. James Senape III ’91, Mrs. Kimberly Warner-Senape, and Family

Additional memorials

(Continued from page 22)

In Honor of Lilli Senape ’25 Atty. James V. Senape Jr.

In Honor of The Class of 1955 Reverend David M. Bobbey ’55

In Memory of Joseph J. Williams Sr. Mr. Paul D. Lesser ’73

In Memory of Mayme Senape Mr. Alfred Senape ’63 and Mrs. Marilyn Senape

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

In Honor of Joshua Witner ’25 Mr. and Mrs. William Van Horn

In Memory of Stanley Sherman ’58 Dr. Jay Apfelbaum ’58 and Mrs. Harriet Apfelbaum

In Memory of Alice Tomlinson Mr. Craig A. Eisenberger ’04

In Memory of Andrew Stofan ’22 Mr. Albert Antolick ’56 and Mrs. Mary Ellen Antolick Mr. Roman Baran ’60 and Mrs. Rita Baran Mr. James M. Dunn ’60 Mr. Bernard Nosal ’59 Mr. David Tapper ’67 and Mrs. Sandra Tapper

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

In Memory of Genevieve Straw Colonel Andrew Straw ’75 and Ms. Anita Doran

In Memory of Thea Welsko Mr. Thomas E. Welsko ’57

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

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

In Memory of Mary Jane Urenovitch Dr. Joseph V. Urenovitch ’55 In Memory of Michael Wassel ’51 Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Boyle

In Honor of Kaylee Witner ’22 Mr. and Mrs. William Van Horn In Memory of Frederick J. Yannes ’25 Mr. James A. Yannes In Memory of Anna Yoncoski Ms. Alexis Haupt ’13 Mr. and Mrs. David C. Haupt Mr. Zachary Haupt ’10 and Mrs. Jennifer Haupt Mr. and Mrs. Jim Johnston In Memory of Sarah Jane Yuscavage ’04 Mr. and Mrs. Kevin R. Foley

Lewandowski family donates SynDaver frog dissection model to MMI Science Department

Thank you to Nancy Lewandowski ‘89 and James Lewandowski who recently donated a frog dissection model by SynDaver to the school’s science program. SynFrog is made with twenty-first century SynTissue, a library of synthetic wet tissues that mimic the look, feel, and physical properties of real live tissue. SynFrog is made to represent a live female frog in every way possible, including its size and the texture and color of its skin and organs. It also features a realistic reproductive system, complete with eggs. The frog contains removable and anatomically-correct organs.

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NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID WILKES-BARRE, PA PERMIT#413

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

MMI celebrates “Grandparents and Grandfriends Day! MMI middle school students welcomed their grandparents and grandfriends to MMI on December 3 for the annual Grandparents Day celebration. See page 9 for more photos from the day of fun and learning.

Important Dates

Open House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 29 Wister Quartet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 31 Springo Bingo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 5 Visitation Night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 22 Philadelphia Mini-Reunion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 23 Prepper Playhouse Spring Musical. . . . . . . . . . . . April 24-25 Junior-Senior Prom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 30

Head of School Donor Reception. . . . . . . . . . . . . May 2 Entrance Exam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 16 Upper School Awards Convocation . . . . . . . . . . May 20 Baccalaureate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26 Commencement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28 Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament. . . . . June 26 Alumni Weekend. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 7-8