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Richard Abrams ’88 shares his love of environmental science at Sherlock Springs nature preserve in Florida outreach, and education. Part of my job was to educate people about fishery conservation. We targeted the public to tell them things they could do to protect the resources while they were fishing. We conducted a variety of programs, such as children’s and women’s fishing clinics, went to fishing shows, and produced publications,” Abrams said. “We served as a link between research and the general public. When we did research on a fishery, we converted the information into layman terms so the general public could learn and appreciate more about the saltwater fish in Florida.”
Sherlock Holmes handled every case by diving right in and observing every detail and aspect that he could. When Richard Abrams ’88 got the idea for opening a nature preserve focusing on hands-on environmental education, discovery, and events, he looked to his late canine companion, also named “Sherlock,” for naming inspiration. Abrams said the dog, like the fictional detective, “had an inquisitive personality and great problem-solving skills” and thus Sherlock Springs was born. The nature retreat opened in December 2020 in Crawfordville, Florida, which is approximately 15 miles south of Tallahassee in Wakulla County. Sherlock Springs features a natural spring, nature trails, outdoor education areas, an equestrian center, and lodge for hosting weddings and other events.
The Sherlock Springs grounds are on the site of a former YMCA summer camp. After the camp closed, the property sat in foreclosure for 10 years before Abrams purchased it in May of 2018. Although he had the idea for Sherlock Springs for quite some time, he was not expecting it to all come together when it did. When this site became available, Abrams said Richard Abrams’88 named the M.H. Forke Lodge he could not pass up the opportunity. He said Richard “Rich” Abrams comes from at Sherlock Springs after his mother, Marlene. it was in quite a bit of disarray when he bought a long line of MMI graduates, including it but now he is happy to have the first phase completed and ready his father, Edward ‘62, and grandfather, Irving ‘30. After his parents to share with the public. “My goal is to just get people out here and passed away – his father in 2010 and his mother, Marlene, in 2016 – enjoy the outdoors and what nature has to offer them,” he said. he wanted to invest in his passion of natural resource conservation, environmental education, and getting people outdoors. In addition to the lush outdoor setting, the renovated “It’s really rewarding. I’m following my parents, who were business people, and always told us to give back,” he said. In fact, a unique aspect of the property is the M.H. Forke Lodge, which Abrams named after his mother, Marlene, whose maiden name was Forke. In addition to his love of and professional background in environmental science, Abrams found inspiration through the work he did during his career, including the nearly 25 years he spent with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, to take complex environmental concepts and make them easy for the public to understand. “During my time with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, I worked in marine fishery research,
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camp canteen, surrounded by beautifully lit live oak trees, can accommodate up to 150 people. The space can host weddings, corporate parties, and everything in between. The expansive equestrian center is designed to be used for horse events and other animal-related activities. Everything from horse shows and clinics, to dog agility programs, trade shows, open-air markets, and large gatherings can be held here. Plans are still underway for the educational programming Sherlock Springs will offer but Abrams envisions it giving people a chance to reconnect with nature. He is planning both indoor and outdoor activities in the main education area focused around four areas: nature education, outdoor recreation, what he calls folk school, and fitness. (continued on page 9)
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From the Head of School Dear MMI Family & Friends, After a universally challenging year, on New Year’s Day we collectively turned the page to 2021 with a big sigh. Together we made it through the continual hurdles, but not just by luck, by with what has been present deep inside the MMI Community for more than 140 years — grit. In the early days of fall, there were so many unknowns. How long will we be open? Is six feet enough distance? Can students wear masks all day? I will be the first to admit that I was concerned about success with everything COVID, especially as the virus has touched all our communities more deeply. However, I have never been prouder of the faculty and staff or more moved by our students in how they rose to the challenge. As I sit in my office today, we have begun our second semester of in-person learning and, even with a delayed start, we are just about even with our normal pace of the curriculum. Whether it is pivoting our faculty to remote learning or our students figuring out how to collaborate virtually, we have found a way through not just by getting by but by pushing each other to new levels of strength. Grit sometimes feels like an overused word. As we wish that perseverance and dedication were in greater supply, we can champion grit as a way to elevate accomplishments or highlight moments of great determination. During these unprecedented times when you see great tasks performed every day that are as small as a warm greeting underneath a mask or as large as a senior, after weeks of grinding homework assignments, truly mastering how to integrate in Calculus, I can tell you grit is alive and well at MMI. MMI has always been a place that teaches grit and it was as apparent to me when I first visited the school nearly two years ago as it is today. What is different is that because of its well-worn path at MMI, it shines even more brilliantly in our faculty, staff, and students. As a community, we made sacrifices in order to continue our legacy as a leader in education. Those sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. Not a day goes by that I do not hear compliments for our wonderful faculty and our amazing students on how, despite the many obstacles in their path, they have continued to thrive and grow. As we approach the one-year mark of the pandemic, an anniversary a year ago we never would have foreseen, I cannot help but focus on the positives we never expected either. MMI has developed policies and procedures that will help us easily pivot for any number of future unusual situations. Our enhanced online/virtual options will help secure a healthy and robust educational environment long past the pandemic. While many schools and students are stuck, MMI has taken a great leap forward.
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
Thirty-one of MMI’s 51 participants placed in the top five of their respective categories at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Regional competition, including nine individuals and two teams who captured first place, and 23 students will advance to the 2021 FBLA State Leadership Conference. Pictured are, first row, from left: Emily Borchick, Phoebe Bramley, Emily Hunsinger, Emely Lopez-Rodriguez, Irene Altmiller, Jessica Zheng, and Manal Muhammad. Second row: Hiba Muhammad, Katherine Lewandowski, Grace Warner, Kaylee Witner, Sandra Abdulrahman, Rachael Betz, and Alexandra Young. Third row: Edgar Lopez-Rodriguez, Christian Homnack, James Kelly, Thomas Mayernik, Jayden Bonham, Connor Spencer, and Kevin McNulty. Absent from photo: FBLA Club Advisor Katherine Zucco, Robert Rinaldi, Morgan Strecker, Kennedy Tavaris, Abigail Sparich, Annabel Dobash, Lindsay Horvat, Daniella Vasquez, Kimberly Amentler, Julie Amentler, David Castro, Dominique Kline, and Sydney Kohl.
Thirty-one MMI students place in top five at FBLA Regionals and 23 advance to State Conference Thirty-one of MMI’s 51 participants placed in the top five of their respective categories at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Regional competition, including nine individuals and two teams who captured first place, and 23 students will advance to the 2021 FBLA State Leadership Conference. The regional competition was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as will the upcoming State Leadership Conference, which will be held April 12-14. MMI’s first-place finishers and state qualifiers are: Katherine Lewandowski (Business Communication); Kevin McNulty (Cyber Security); the team of Sandra Abdulrahman, Thomas Mayernick, and Kennedy Tavaris (Graphic Design); Grace Warner (Healthcare Administration); Emily Borchick (Intro to FBLA); Manal Muhammad (Intro to Social Media Strategies); Rachael Betz (Journalism); Hiba Muhammad (Organizational Leadership); Jayden Bonham (Political Science); the team
of Robert Rinaldi, James Kelly, and Connor Spencer (Sports & Entertainment Management); and Morgan Strecker (Supply Chain Management). Additional State Leadership Conference qualifiers are: the team of Irene Altmiller and Alexandra Young (second place in Marketing); Abigail Sparich (second in Intro to Social Media Strategies); Annabel Dobash (second in Intro to Business Communication); Jessica Zheng (second in Intro to Business Presentation); Emily Hunsinger (second in Intro to Event Planning); Christian Homnack (second in Computer Problem Solving); Phoebe Bramley (third in Intro to Event Planning); and Edgar LopezRodriguez (third in Intro to Financial Math). Additional MMI students who placed in the top five in Region 16 are: Lindsay Horvat (third in Business Ethics); Daniella Vasquez (fourth in Healthcare Administration); the team of Kimberly Amentler and Julie Amentler (fourth in Hospitality Management &
Event Planning); David Castro (fourth in Banking and Financial Systems); the team of Dominique Kline and Sydney Kohl (fourth in Marketing); and Emely Lopez-Rodriguez (fifth in Intro to Business Communication). Future Business Leaders of AmericaPhi Beta Lambda is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) educational association of student members preparing for careers in business or who are interested in learning more about the free enterprise system. FBLA helps students develop leadership abilities and prepare for entry into, and advancement within, a business or business-related occupation. Members learn how to engage in business enterprise, how to direct the affairs of a group, and how to compete honorably in competitive events. These activities help prepare students to be better employees and better citizens. MMI competes in Region 16, which includes students from schools throughout Luzerne County.
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MMI seniors Darren Zheng and Louis DeAngelo named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists MMI seniors Darren Zheng and Louis DeAngelo were named as Semifinalists in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. Zheng and DeAngelo are among a national field of approximately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 66th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition.
MMI seniors, from left, Darren Zheng and Louis DeAngelo were named as Semifinalists in the
To become a Finalist, 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. Semifinalists must submit a detailed scholarship application including have an outstanding academic record information on their academic record, throughout high school, be endorsed and participation in school and community recommended by a high school official, activities, demonstrated leadership write an essay, and earn SAT scores that abilities, employment, and honors and confirm the student’s earlier performance awards received. The student must on the qualifying test.
About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing and about half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.
MMI designs Mid-School Grandparents Day virtual toolkit This year we could not invite our special guests to the School for our annual celebration of MidSchool Grandparents and Grandfriends Day. In lieu of our traditional event, MMI designated December 2020 as “Let’s Make a Memory” month. All mid-school students were encouraged to make a memory, in person or virtually, with their grandparents or another special adult in their lives!
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A “Let’s Make a Memory” Virtual Toolkit, which contained information about how to connect families in different ways, was emailed to students, parents, and grandparents. Additional copies were mailed to grandparents who requested a printed copy. MMI encouraged families to be creative and thoughtful as they adapted one (or more) activity to fit their particular
situation. All activities could be done over a phone call, Zoom or video chat, or while practicing safe social distancing. It is during times like these, when we are physically apart, that we need to come together more than ever as a community to support each other!
At left, seventh grader Ben Gombeda and his grandparents, Lew and Linda Kistler, play a board game. The family took advantage of the fact that Ben was home for MMI’s two scheduled postholiday virtual weeks to have Ben visit with them. They have been social distancing, and Ben has not been able to spend time with them while attending live school. Above, seventh grader David Yamulla enjoyed the company of his grandparents, Robert and Bonnie Ustonofski, by playing a game of Trouble!
Community Bank, N.A. makes $5,000 EITC donation to MMI for need-based scholarships MMI received a $5,000 contribution from Community Bank, N.A. through the Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program to go toward need-based scholarships at the school.
facilities across Upstate New York, Northeastern Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Western Massachusetts through its banking subsidiary, Community Bank, N.A. With assets of over $11.0 billion, the DeWitt, N.Y. MMI Director of Advancement headquartered company is among Kim McNulty said, “On behalf of the country’s 150 largest financial everyone at MMI Preparatory School, institutions. In addition to a full I’d like to thank Community Bank, range of retail, business, and N.A. for their generous contribution. municipal banking services, the Since 2005, MMI students have Company offers comprehensive received nearly $3.8 million in financial planning and wealth scholarship support thanks to management services through MMI received a $5,000 contribution from Community the contributions of many area its Community Bank Wealth companies. Support of MMI through Bank, N.A. through the Education Improvement Management Group and Tax Credit (EITC) program to go toward need-based the EITC or OSTC programs will help OneGroup NY, Inc. operating MMI’s efforts to make our educational scholarships at the school. Pictured are, from left: Justin Kleinheider, MMI Head of School, and John Dorneman, units. The Company’s Benefit experience available to the most Vice President and Commercial Banking Officer at Plans Administrative Services, capable students regardless of their Community Bank, N.A. Inc. subsidiary is a leading financial circumstances.” provider of employee benefits their charitable contribution for a oneJohn Dorneman, Vice President administration, trust services, collective year period. The tax credit increases and Commercial Banking Officer at investment fund administration and to 90 percent if the company commits Community Bank, N.A., said, “MMI actuarial consulting services to customers to making the same donations for two Preparatory School is an outstanding on a national scale. Community Bank consecutive years. A business paying institution, providing a quality education taxes in Pennsylvania can receive up System, Inc. is listed on the New York to its students. We are proud to provide Stock Exchange and the Company’s to $300,000 in tax credits annually. this contribution to them.” stock trades under the symbol CBU. For Donations of any amount are eligible As an approved scholarship more information about Community for the tax credit. Pennsylvania is one organization, MMI is designated to Bank visit www.cbna.com or http:// of only a few states in the nation that receive contributions through the EITC ir.communitybanksystem.com. offers the EITC program, which gives tax program, which is administered by the credits to eligible businesses contributing For more information about the Pennsylvania Department of Community to a scholarship organization. Education Improvement Tax Credit and Economic Development. Businesses program, contact Kim McNulty at 570Community Bank System, Inc. that donate to MMI are eligible to receive operates more than 234 customer 636-1108 or kmcnulty@mmiprep.org. tax credits amounting to 75 percent of
MMI honors Eckley and Sophia Coxe during Founder’s Day ceremony MMI seniors honored the school’s founders, Eckley Brinton Coxe, and his wife, Sophia Georgianna Coxe, during a graveside service at St. James Church in Drifton. The annual Founder’s Day ceremony is held prior to Thanksgiving every year to honor the Coxes’ contributions to the school and the area. MMI Head of School Justin Kleinheider provided welcoming and closing remarks during the event and Father John Wagner, pastor of St. James Church, delivered the invocation and benediction. Following remarks by MMI President Emeritus Joseph Rudawski, Kleinheider, senior class advisors, and members of the Class of 2021 participated in the wreath-laying ceremony. Kleinheider said, “Eckley and Sophia
MMI honored its founders, Eckley and Sophia Coxe, during the annual Founder’s Day graveside service. Pictured are, from left: Fr. John Wagner, Pastor St. James Church, Justin Kleinheider, MMI Head of School, Robert Rinaldi, Senior Class Treasurer, Colin Williams, Senior Class President, Hunter Blasko, Senior Class Vice President, and Joseph Rudawski, MMI President Emeritus.
Coxe created the foundation for MMI Preparatory School more than 140 years ago and we are proud to continue to honor their dedication to academic excellence. Throughout MMI’s storied
history our commitment to educational excellence, co-curricular opportunity, and the development of a strong sense of character and service has remained constant.”
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MMI Parents Association organizes first Fall Festival When the MMI Parents Association Advisory Committee met to plan the Association’s calendar of events for the 2020-21 school year, they knew it needed to look a lot different than the routine of years past. With COVID-19 impacting every area of education, it was no surprise that the Parents Association would need to go back to the drawing board with many of their usual events. In an effort to generate new ideas, the Advisory Committee formed two subcommittees: Activities and Fundraising. The focus of the Activities Committee was to come up with fun ways to engage students, and the Fundraising Committee was charged with finding new or transformed ways to raise the money needed to execute student events. Each of these committees was responsible for reimagining the norm. In light of the necessary cancellation of the traditional Parents Associationsponsored upper school Harvest Dance, and the increased obstacles of the school year, the Activities Committee sought to organize a fun event for all students. With limitations on inside events, the outdoor, free of charge, Fall Festival was born. In early October, with little time remaining before the weather would turn colder, the parent-driven committee dove into planning. Within a few days, a descriptive plan outlining the entire event, including COVID-19 precautions
Assistance came from many directions and even connected local alumni. The Benyo Family (Philip Benyo ‘95, his wife, Maria, and sons, Philip, MMI Class of 2027, and Jack) offered to construct a pumpkin catapult to be used at the Fall Festival. Bob Kashubski ‘67, owner of Kashubski Farms in Drums, donated two truckloads of pumpkins to be used for catapult launching and decorations.
and considerations, was presented to the school for approval. Upon approval, subcommittees were formed, and the event began to take shape. While the weekend prior to the event was cold, with temperatures in the low 40’s, Sunday, November 8, 2020, the day of the festival, was sunny, unseasonably warm, and in the 70’s. With 120 students attending and more than 40 parent volunteers, the MMI sports complex was bustling.
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MMI students signed part of the pumpkin launcher with their name and class year to start a new MMI tradition. Each year, students will add their names to the pumpkin launcher.
Students enjoyed activities, music, carnival food, and
hanging out with friends in a festivaltype setting, socially distanced. Activities and games included a pumpkin launcher, badminton, potato sack races, a scavenger hunt, kan jam, pumpkin relay races, ring toss, a guesshow-many game, and can knock down. All participants earned chances to win prizes and gift cards. Twenty-seven student teams (two students per team) competed for cash prizes in a bracket-style cornhole tournament. In addition to games and activities, the Parents Association arranged for Murt’s Mobile Diner food truck to be onsite and provide a meal for each student. With their meal ticket, students could select from a variety of options, all of which included an entrée, side, and beverage. The PA also rented carnivalstyle equipment that parent volunteers (continued on page 7)
Parents Association Fall Festival
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used to make popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones. The event capped off at dusk with marshmallow roasting and s’more making around small campfires in the soccer field’s upper parking lot. While going back to the drawing board is not usually easy or welcomed, the MMI Parents Association looked at this necessary reimagining as an opportunity to provide enjoyment for all MMI students. The event was an astounding success and received much positive feedback from students and parents alike. One parent noted, “I am so glad we were able to create this event. It was wonderful to see the kids having fun with their friends, hanging out, and laughing, all in Junior Andrew Blasko takes his turn in the Cornhole Tournament while seventh grader Adam Frask looks on. a safe environment. The experience they had tonight The MMI Parents Association would parents and MMI staff that volunteered is the kind of thing they will remember like to thank all the members of the Fall the day of the event. Thank you to Philip when they get older.” Festival planning committee and the Benyo ’95 for designing and creating the pumpkin catapult and to Bob Kashubski ’67 for the generous donation of pumpkins. Thanks to the MMI Maintenance Staff for helping the committee organize logistics and for set up and tear down assistance. Thank you to Charlie Altmiller for the donation, setup, and removal of the light towers. Thank you to TR Laputka for providing the sound equipment and for volunteering at the music tent. Thank you to parents who donated cases of water, fire wood, prizes, and equipment.
At left, MMI students had a fun time playing with the pumpkin launcher and taking part in the many activities that were a part of the Fall Festival.
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MMI purchases six circuit drawing pens with Exxon Mobil Educational Alliance grant from Onvo as simple as drawing a picture on MMI purchased six Circuit a piece of paper. We are grateful to Scribe drawing pens and Onvo and Exxon Mobil for helping additional refills with a $500 us procure these pens.” Exxon Mobil Educational Harman Aulakh, Marketing Alliance grant received from Manager for Onvo, stated “Onvo Onvo. is proud to support the students The Circuit Scribe and faculty of MMI through the conductive ink pen, which ExxonMobil Educational Alliance contains actual liquid silver, grant. We’re happy to see that MMI offers instructors an innovative is putting the grant towards an way of teaching how electricity important tool that will enhance and electronics work and students’ STEM education.” gives students an immersive, Onvo—formerly known as hands-on science, technology, Liberty—is a family business engineering, and math (STEM) based in Scranton, Pennsylvania. experience. Since 1988, the Onvo team has Using the non-toxic, silver built a network of travel plazas, ink pen, students can draw MMI sixth grader Avari DeAngelo uses one of the Circuit Scribe convenience stores, and restaurants circuits between the electronic drawing pens that the school purchased with a $500 Exxon dedicated to serving the travelers modules with the steel canvas Mobil Educational Alliance grant it received from Onvo. of Pennsylvania, New York, and under the paper. After they place the modules and switch on the power, students can watch beyond. As of 2020, the Onvo family of businesses now includes 32 travel plazas and gas stations, 23 quick-service and as their circuit drawing activates lights, buzzers, motors, and full-service restaurants, petroleum distribution, and five hotels more. in Pennsylvania and Upstate New York. MMI Academic Dean/Computer Science and Technology Exxon and Mobil combine to fuel young minds through the instructor Justin Vincent said that he, along with Science, Educational Alliance. Since its inception, the companies have Math, and Technology instructor Amanda Shonk and Science committed more than $34 million to this national program, instructor Timothy Garvey, has been eager to add the circuit which funds math and science programs at schools in need as drawing pens to MMI’s science and technology tools, and the part of their ongoing effort to support STEM education within instructors are excited to use them with the students. the communities they serve. Through their partnership with Vincent said, “Circuitry and electronics are best taught in a the Educational Alliance, Exxon and Mobil help give students hands-on manner but the physical wiring becomes complex so the tools and technology they need to connect what they learn fast that it often overpowers conceptual understanding. A tool in the classroom with what they see in the real world. such as this takes that complexity and turns it into a process
MMI welcomes nearly 80 campers to annual Summer Camp
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MMI welcomed 78 campers to the school in July by offering nine different summer camps. There were seven camps led by MMI faculty and staff. Crafty Messy Art, Cake Decorating, Baseball, Asian Cooking & Craft Camp, Ooey Gooey Science, and Legomaniacs/Claymation were just a few of the camps offered. Pictured above, students in the Ooey Gooey Science camp, led by MMI’s Ms. Amanda Shonk, prepare to launch bottle rockets.
Abrams opens Sherlock Springs
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Abrams said, “We’re looking at doing a variety of recreational outdoor activities, including archery, fishing, camping, bird watching, and wilderness survival; all the things people like to do as a hobby. We also want to do natural history or environmental education, such as spring ecology, forest ecology, botany, zoology, even astronomy, and geology. The folk school education is all things like our grandparents did when they were younger, including caning chairs, basket weaving, pottery, woodworking, and canning. I call them life skills. There is also a broad area out here so we can do fitness education like yoga, Pilates, Zumba, tai chi, meditation, and trail running. All of our programs will be non-invasive to the animals. There is no hunting on the property and the fishing will be catch-and-release so we don’t deplete the natural resources of the spring.” One of the biggest assets of the property is its natural spring, which is also appropriately named Sherlock Spring. The spring is approximately 200 feet across and 30 feet deep. It is located within a mile of Wakulla Springs State Park, which has the largest freshwater spring in the world. Abrams said it adds to the learning opportunities that the facility provides. “Our spring empties into the spring at Wakulla The lodge is a former YMCA camp canteen and has been converted to host Springs State Park so that is unique that we have such events like weddings and corporate parties. a close tie to that property. Our property has a grove of live oaks that are massive and about 125-150 years After graduating from MMI in 1988, Abrams earned old. They are quite impressive trees. We also have a cypress Bachelor of Science degrees in Marine Science and Biology from swamp,” Abrams said. “There are a lot of things to see out there East Stroudsburg University. In addition to working for the for someone who likes nature. We have a variety of animals Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Abrams and birds on the property, including river otters, coyotes, foxes, taught oceanography and marine ecology courses to middle, bears, deer, and turkeys. We also have many kinds of birds high school, and college students in Virginia at a marine and the spring has freshwater bass, sunfish, and gar, as well as educational facility, worked for the Alaska Department of Fish turtles and alligators.” and Game as a biologist on king crab boats in the Bering Sea, Abrams said he is excited to welcome any MMI alumni who and raised several species of anemonefish in Puerto Rico. He either live in Florida, are vacationing, or just passing through visited MMI in 2012 to speak to science students and previously the Tallahassee area to visit the venue. “I love showing people donated a large display of coral that he collected, which now the property so I encourage any alumni in the area to reach sits in the MMI Coxe Commons. out. I would love to give people a tour,” he said. Abrams’ support of MMI does not end there. In 2018-19, MMI’s Science National Honor Society initiated a grant program that allows for supplemental funding to students who seek to develop Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science projects beyond the scope of conventional finances. The program is funded in part by a private annual donation from Abrams, who also continues to support MMI with donations to the Abrams Family Endowed Scholarship. Abrams said he is honored to be able to give back to his alma mater and support current students. “MMI helped me out by preparing me for college and I’m very glad they’ve increased the number of biology and science courses they offer students. I certainly am glad I can help move the curriculum along and help them offer more things in that field. Getting people involved in the biological sciences is a great thing. My family is glad to help wherever we can,” he said. The Sherlock Springs natural spring is 200 feet wide and 30 feet deep and contains a variety of fish and other animals, including alligators and river otters.
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MMI purchases numerous items for the school thanks to generous Annual Fund donations MMI has received several gifts that have been allocated to fund a number of different initiatives on our Faculty Wish List this year. A special thank you to all the donors who have assisted with these special projects! This past summer, Janet Gaudio made a gift in memory of her late husband, Robert Gaudio ’54, to support MMI’s music program. The gift was made to help diversify the School’s instrument offerings. MMI’s instrumental music program got its beginnings with the acquisition of violins in 2009 through a gift in memory of Alvan Lynn ’55 by his family. MMI has since added cellos and violas to the violins to help build a more robust string program. Using the memorial gift from the Gaudio family, Music Director Renee 7th grade students display an array of instruments that purchased using a gift made in memory of Marciante was able to purchase the late Robert Gaudio ’54. new sheet music and percussion instruments including a steel drum, bells, claves, ukuleles, and bongos to further expand the musical offerings available to students. Despite a challenging year for the music program, as MMI adapted to pandemic-related protocols, these new instruments have opened up a world of opportunity for students. In a time when schools are cutting back on their performing and fine arts programs, MMI is continuing to expand in these areas. The arts are integral to the mission of preparing students for college and beyond. In the future, MMI hopes that the sounds of winds, percussion, and strings all playing together will grace the hallways in Alvan and Bob’s memory.
Dr. Philip McHale ’58 and Ms. Linda Tishko funded a facelift to the MMI Makerspace this summer and added handson equipment for students when they returned to campus this fall. This equipment included a Shark tabletop CNC machine, a filament recycler for MMI’s 3D printers, a hand-held nailer and router, and a classroom set of rechargeable batteries and chargers. Most recently their gift also paid for three new Hero9 GoPro cameras for the science and art departments along with head mounts and chest mounts.
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This will help MMI faculty to continue to do experiments Computer Science and Technology instructor Justin Vincent shows Senior Cole Rinehimer how to use and hands-on teaching during MMI’s new Shark tabletop CNC machine. the current pandemic. With social distancing, the students are sometimes unable to gather around the lab or art table as they have in years past for an experiment or demonstration. Now, the teacher or one student can do the experiment or demonstration and the GoPro can broadcast the video to the rest of the class or to the students at home.
Two different anonymous donors also contributed towards specific items for the science classrooms. A set of indoor grow lights was added to Ms. Amanda Shonk’s room to grow seedlings. Her midschool STEM classes will use the growing plants for data collection, analysis, and graphing units. These three units help lead to the introduction of the basis of the scientific method and how to write a lab in preparation for the end-of-year science fair. MMI also purchased a collection of pelts and furs for the science department. The School’s animal pelt collection now includes furs from a whitetail deer, fisher cat, raccoon, striped skunk, red fox, gray fox, beaver, bobcat, ermine, long tailed weasel, and mink. These hands-on teaching aids will allow students to look at differences in hair structure and density with respect to latitude or elevation changes. Coloration of the pelts is also studied with respect to evolution, and fur mass comparisons can be related to temperature profiles. For the Envirothon competition, pelts are used for identification and evolutionary process studies. At left, MMI purchased a set of indoor grow lights to help grow seedlings for Science instructor Amanda Shonk’s mid-school STEM classes.
John Hersker ’76 supported all MMI faculty by funding the purchase of a 27-inch thermal laminator, which has been a faculty wish list item for a number of years. Adding a laminator to MMI’s teachers’ arsenal will help accommodate students with different learning styles, especially those who may be more visual learners. It also has numerous uses across MMI’s curriculum and proposals for its use include: • Laminated maps and posters to decorate classrooms and for students to identify countries, states, and capitals with dry erase markers. • Laminated vocabulary word walls in both World Language and English Language classrooms. • Laminated math puzzles and problems that can be solved with a dry erase marker, cleaned off and used again. • Laminated flowers for a demonstration on pollination. • Laminated flash cards for math, foreign language, and vocabulary will allow every student to have their own set. • Laminated “survival sheets” which can include key formulas (Chemistry, Physics, or Math) or phrases that a student needs to refer to throughout the year.
World Language instructor Christina Spencer uses MMI’s new 27-inch thermal laminator to laminate a drawing for her classroom.
If you are interested in helping MMI fund specific Faculty Wish List items for classrooms or program areas, please contact Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org.
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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... Sophomore Jillian McGeehin won the School’s Poetry Out Loud competition and will represent MMI at the regional competition. Sophomore Annabel Dobash was the runner-up. During the regional competition, McGeehin will compete with students from Luzerne, Lackawanna, northwestern Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and eastern Wyoming counties. Students will recite two poems each and the top three Jillian McGeehin will recite a third poem during the competition. The regional competition is held under the direction of Arts in Education of Northeastern Pennsylvania and Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit 19. Poetry Out Loud encourages the nation’s youth to master public speaking skills, build confidence, and learn about great poetry through the memorization and recitation of classic poems. More than 3.8 million high school students from more than 16,000 high schools compete in the annual event. MMI English instructor Jennifer Novotney served as the faculty advisor. Senior Morgan Allen had her photo selected for the 2020 Drexel University Photography High School Contest Exhibition.
Congratulations to School Counselor Cheryl Bayo who passed The National Counselor Examination (NCE) this summer. The exam is a 200-item multiple-choice examination designed to assess knowledge, skills, and abilities determined to be important for providing effective counseling services. The NCE is a requirement for counselor licensure in many states. Pictured below, engineering students studied flatback designs/ patterns and designed furniture pieces this fall. These patterns involve the art of symmetry wherein precise measurements are needed in order to obtain a quality output. The model is then cut out of cardboard on the Glowforge and assembled for review. The final step is cutting the designs on wood.
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The Seniors welcomed the Freshmen to the upper school on September 24. Freshmen and Seniors did some icebreakers, had a scavenger hunt, and then the Freshmen were announced one by one to enter into Old Main. They will only exit through those doors again at graduation. The rest of Freshman/Senior bonding will occur in the spring. Pictured are the Senior Class Officers: President Colin Williams, Secretary Dominique Kline, Treasurer Robert Rinaldi, and Vice President Hunter Blasko.
Juniors Christian Homnack and Thomas Mayernik, and senior Noah Long qualified for the PIAA District 2 Golf Championship this fall. Homnack and Mayernik both shot a round of 79 to finish tied for sixth place in the Wyoming Valley Conference pre-district qualifier at Fox Hill Country Club, while Long finished in 11th place with his round of 87.
Congratulations to the MMI students who participated in the Beauty of Freeland photo contest this fall. The winner of the contest was junior Thomas Mayernik. Second place went to senior Hannah Falatko while third place was awarded to senior Sydney Kohl. Honorable mention photos were submitted by senior Morgan Allen, seventh grader JT Ferry, junior Gina Galada, sophomore Erica Kline, seventh grader Rishi Patel, senior Juliana Salio, and senior Zander Spear. Thank you to the Parents Association for providing prizes to the winners. Prepper Field Day! The senior class and student council did an excellent job of reimagining this fun day for students on September 18. Lunch was provided by the School and the Parents Association provided an afternoon snack. Senior Kevin McNulty received the 2020 Bishop’s Youth Award on Sunday, November 15, at a special Mass held at the Church of St. Ignatius Loyola in Kingston. This award recognized his efforts in leadership, Christian service, and commitment to his parish, family, community, and school.
Senior Marcus Danchision will continue his baseball and academic career at Division I Lehigh University. Also pictured are, seated, from left: parents Daniel Danchision and Wendy Danchision. Standing: MMI Head of School Justin Kleinheider, MMI Head Baseball Coach Ryan Jastremsky, sister Melana Danchision, and MMI Athletic Director Vincent Vella.
Director of Advancement Kim McNulty was presented with a Graduway Impact Award in January. This award recognizes strategies, efforts, and out-of-thebox thinking that led to digital fundraising success during the past year. The award was in recognition of MMI’s Day of Giving to support The Student Hardship Fund, which raised $35,525 in one day on July 15, 2020.
Students in Chinese Language classes enjoyed mooncakes in honor of the Moon Festival. The celebration was a bit different this year as they weren’t able to share in class, but each student received an individual bag with mooncake and tea to enjoy at home. Thanks Mrs. Christina Spencer!
Senior Emily Ryan was named the Challenge Cup Series 2020 Rookie of the Year this fall on the final race weekend of the season. She was presented with the award at Pittsburgh International Race Complex, which features 2.78 miles of road course, major elevation changes, and 19 corners.
The visual arts program at MMI has been completing amazing work this past semester. The 8th grade has been working on oil pastel “Trees in Motion”, 9th grade has been Contour Drawing “Shoes”, and 10th grade worked on scratch art as well as Basquiat Style self-portraits. The MMI Advanced Art students worked on Shadows & Lines, a Ghost Photo Shoot, and Masking Tape Shoes. You can watch the YouTube demonstration of the masking tape shoes here: https://youtu.be/-v4WcVAWoxU.
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MMI seeks information on “lost” Preppers MMI is keen to re-establish contact with all those who may have lost touch with us over the years. We currently have more than 1,945 alumni in our database, but we are always searching for our “lost” alumni. Right now, we have 88 inactive Preppers whose address we do not have on record and who do not receive any information from their alma mater!
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Please browse the list below to see if you recognize any other MMI graduates with whom you are still in touch. If so, and if you think they would like to get back in touch with the Prepper family, please encourage them to complete our online update form in the alumni section of our website. To the Classes ending in -1 and -6, this is your reunion year! Please contact us if you know where your missing classmates are and help make our reunion efforts even better!
Mr. Thomas E. Kobrick ’52
Mr. Harry G. Novak Jr. ’88
Mr. Wayne Mensinger ’52
Ms. Anna B. Paesler J.D. ’89
Dr. John J. Shane ’53
Ms. Patricia T. Santolaya ’89
Atty. David S. Woronoff ’55
Mr. John J. Gardecki ’90
Mr. George J. Doll ’61
Dr. Nicholas A.P. Martyak ’90
Mr. John Lesho ’65
Ms. Rozvita Gabric ’92
Mr. John R. Kudlick ’69
Ms. Blanca Santolaya ’92
Mr. Ralph Schiller R.N. ’69
Mrs. Heather M. Offerman ’93
Mr. James J. Yurkovic ’69
Ms. Mary R. Barrera ’94
Mr. Henry Drozdusky ’70
Mr. Allen M. Pachence ’94
Mr. Joseph Vitack ’70
Mrs. Brittany L. Campbell ’95
Mr. John Chakan III ’72
Mr. Ryan M. Fescina ’95
Mr. John W. Weber ’72
Mrs. Jessica Horsey ’95
Mr. Francis Forte ’73
Mrs. Megan L. Crume ’96
Mr. David Petrilla ’75
Mr. Lucas Lorenzato ’96
Ms. Mary Ann Ciavarella ’76
Mrs. Julie A. Hewitt ’97
Mrs. Karen A. Charlins ’77
Mr. Ruchir Dave’ ’99
Ms. Sharon E. McCloskey ’77
Ms. Jamie A. Searfoss ’99
Mr. David Medash ’78
Mr. Michael C. Brennan ’00
Mrs. Cynthia D’Lorio ’79
Mrs. Jennifer M. Massell ’00
Ms. Shawn C. Tumbelty ’79
Ms. Ariana Casanovas ’01
Mr. David J. Young Jr. ’79
Mr. Charles M. Centrelli ’01
Mrs. Michele E. Krusinski ’80
Mr. Gregory T. Portz ’01
Mr. Christopher S. Pecora ’80
Ms. Neeta K. Makhija ’02
Atty. Gordon L. Bigelow ’81
Ms. Juliette K. Rabelhofer ’02
Mr. Emmett Powell ’82
Mrs. Rachel L. Smith ’02
Mr. Michael J. Matyas ’83
Mr. David C. James ’03
Ms. Eileen M. Bradley ’84
Mr. Jason V. Lewis ’03
Mr. Joseph Zajac ’84
Ms. Amanda M. Sidari ’03
Mr. David M. Mills ’86
Ms. Deborah L. Attewell ’04
Mr. Kevin W. Smith ’86
Mrs. Allison Gortva ’05
Mr. Jeff V. Racho ’87
Mr. Zachary J. Leshko ’07
Mr. Blake Gagliardi ’88
Mr. Benjamin M. Sherry ’07
Mrs. Maryann Hollis ’88
Ms. Jiwanjot Kaur ’08
Mr. David B. Satterfield ’08 Mr. Niklas S. Anthony ’09 Ms. Kristyn Lizbinski ’09 Mr. Joshua Fulk ’11 Mr. Joshua Kiddish ’11 Mr. Francisco J. Ortiz III ’11 Mr. Michael S. Deganich ’12 Mr. Trebor R. Hall ’13 Mr. Beau A. Samonte ’13 Ms. Lora M. Schell ’13 Ms. Katelyn M. McGuire ’15 Mr. Jesse C. Plaksa ’15 Ms. Claire J. Sheen ’15 Mr. Brian Driscoll ’16 Ms. Lauren O. Toscano ’16 Ms. Catherine E. Matyas ’17 Mr. Dillon C. Merenich ’17 Ms. Olivia J. Minzola ’17 Mr. Joshua I. Narrow ’17 Ms. Caelyn R. McGran ’18
Alumni Notes
What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe
Rebecca Warren ’84 speaks on COVID-19 impact on Pennsylvania construction industry to Associated Builders and Contractors The Honorable Rebecca L. Warren ’84 (Ret.), member of law firm Norris McLaughlin, P.A., spoke on the current state of COVID-19 and its impact on the construction industry in Pennsylvania for the Associated Builders and Contractors Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter’s virtual meeting on August 20. “As a proud member of the local Hon. Rebecca L. chapter of the Associated Builders and Warren ’84 Contractors, I am honored to have the opportunity to be a resource for them. In this ever-changing world we live in, it is so important to stay up-to-date with the current laws and regulations in order to protect yourself, your business, your employees, and your clients,” said Warren. Warren addressed Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf’s re-opening and then re-closing of certain businesses and activities, updated Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) concerns, the White House’s Memorandum proposing Lost Wages Assistance Program, practicalities of dealing with a workforce reluctant to return to work, and employer-directed quarantine of workers traveling to the governor’s list of restricted states. Warren devotes her practice to labor and employment, business and corporate matters, and general liability litigation. As a former in-house corporate attorney and having counseled businesses for more than 25 years, Warren is acutely aware of the unique and varied legal needs of business clients. She has created thousands of customized legal documents for corporations, partnerships, LLCs, and sole proprietors.
Warren is also well-versed in providing legal strategy and guidance regarding daily business issues and concerns ranging from employment matters to third-party disputes. As a former prosecutor, Warren is well-positioned to counsel clients in crisis management, internal and governmental investigations, and regulatory and business compliance. She has represented prominent clients in highstakes and multimillion-dollar cases at the county, state, and federal levels in multiple states. In addition, Warren has extensive experience in insurance defense, white-collar crime, election law, health care, commercial law, estate practice and administration, family law, and real estate. Warren handles all aspects of litigation for her clients, having appeared in court on thousands of hearings, proceedings, arbitrations, jury and non-jury trials, and appeals. She was formerly appointed solicitor for various nonprofit organizations and government agencies and had regularly served as a county arbitration panel member and chairperson. Prior to joining Norris McLaughlin, Warren founded a multi-county law firm and real estate closing company, and was a partner in a Philadelphia firm. Warren was elected as the first female District Attorney of Montour County by a 3-to-1 vote. In that role, she designed and implemented an intensive, personalized victim rights program; created the Multi-Disciplinary Investigative Team for child abuse cases to minimize trauma for minor victims; and collaborated with agencies to provide services and treatment for offenders. Warren received her J.D. from The Dickinson School of Law in 1991 and her B.A. with honors from Bloomsburg University in 1988.
Anthony Cusat ’92 earns promotion Anthony Cusat ’92 has been promoted from senior landscape architect to director of design in McHale’s Virginia division. Cusat graduated from Penn State with degrees in landscape contracting and landscape. He moved through the ranks, working on many projects throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Many of his projects have been recognized by NALP and the Landscape Contractors Association (LCA). “Utilizing my passion for drawing and visualization has provided me with a unique opportunity to create outdoor living spaces that impact and improve the lives of our clients,” Cusat says. “I am humbled and grateful for this platform to be able to challenge myself and those on my team for continual growth, both personally and professionally.”
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Alumni Notes
(continued)
Carole Cramer-Pait, P.E., ’74 retires Carole Cramer-Pait, P.E., ’74 has retired after a 40-year career in facilities and mechanical engineering. She served eight years with private architectural and engineering firms and 32 years with the Department of Defense. Thank you to Carol, who took the time to share her story with the MMI family below. Graduating from MMI and prepared for college, my plan was to attend PSU and be a schoolteacher. However, while taking a freshman drafting class, the instructor invited me to change my course of study to Architectural Engineering – I agreed. The curriculum was a good fit for me. I enjoyed the mechanical classes, was glad for less English classes, and developed a passion for Thermodynamics. In addition, the architectural classes included in the five-year curriculum complimented the classes my mother had drove me to for years at the Hazleton Art league. Architecture, my hobby, continues; recently we toured the city of Paris with its second Empire-style buildings and viewed the medieval Notre Dame! After college, in the ‘80’s, I settled in the Philadelphia area and “hit” the drafting table (AUTO CAD was not available yet) to design HVAC construction drawings by hand. One significant project I remember, while working with a mechanical firm at the time, was a joint effort with an architectural firm for a Philadelphia Zoo project. I was involved with new cage airflow (climate control) for the Lemur Monkey Cage. In 1988, with my father’s influence (he served aboard ships in the Navy), I was inspired to work for the Department of Defense. Working for the DOD over the past 32 years, I became experienced in Air Force, Army, and Naval facilities sustainment and restoration work. My husband, who served in the Army, was my mentor and my greatest fan. Due in part to his pep talks, when needed, I know that I enjoyed my career much more and accomplished much more than without a mentor. For example, when I had a challenging supervisor, he
Niklas Byriel ’17 graduated Summa Cum Laude from Elizabethtown College on December 19. He double majored in Computer Science and German.
Psi Omega production of William Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” this fall. This student-led comedy featured Kyle as Friar Francis, Dan as Don John, and Ben as Benedick.
Anirban Chowdhury ’17 was named a Carnegie Mellon Andrew Carnegie Society Scholar. Ani will be graduating college a semester early and has been accepted into CMU’s very competitive accelerated one-year master’s program in machine learning, which he should complete in December 2021.
Andrew Kempchinsky ’11 graduated from Queen Mary University of London with a master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering with Distinction. He spent a year exploring London. He has accepted a research position in Seattle, WA.
Brandon Crockford ’20, a freshman majoring in psychology, was named Penn State Hazleton’s Student of the Month for September and also earned a spot on the fall Dean’s List.
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encouraged me to respect the office, even though I may not necessarily have respected the person. Thus, subjective influences did not sidetrack me. I focused on Carole Cramer-Pait, P.E. ’74, from left to project issues, right, when she started at the DOD in 1988 enjoyed sharing and when she retired in June 2020. ideas with my colleagues on the project team, and pressed on to great solutions – developing good fits for the funding available, the maintenance on hand, and the mission target. Each day of work, I focused on and accomplished little project tasks which proved fruitful, eventually growing into completed construction projects. As important as the projects were, lunchtime walks, when possible, with other co-workers were “equally” beneficial! After work, it was my good fortune to spend time with my family sharing in my sisters’, nieces’, nephews’, and stepchild’s lives. Additionally, I have followed a saying I like by Mother Theresa, which states: “Do small things with great love!” Recently, when I retired in June 2020, the Navy acknowledged my 32 years of service for providing facilities and mechanical engineering support to improve and maintain heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems in Navy shore facilities through design, construction, and maintenance efforts. I was very grateful for the plaque and ceremony; it was a very special closure to all those by-gone years where I had spent half of my time “going to work”. Thank you so much for letting me share with you a little about my 40-year career after graduating from MMI. Best Regards, Carole Cramer-Pait, ‘74
Kyle Falatko ’18, Dan DeMelfi ’19, and Ben Putnam ’20 performed in the Lafayette College Arts Society and Alpha
On May 9, Robert Kupsho ’14 received his doctoral degree in Physical Therapy from Lebanon Valley College. His rotations were at NYU in New York City and Pivot Physical Therapy in Washington, D.C. to complete his clinical requirements. RJ graduated ranked at the top of his class and is starting a residency in Acute Care physical therapy at
Robert Kupsho ’14
Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. He will also be filling an adjunct teaching position at the University of Delaware. During his time at LVC, he played on the men’s basketball team. Jessica Malloy ’06 recently graduated from Columbia University with a Master of Science in Information and Knowledge Strategy. Her independent research focused on the barriers to effective knowledge transfer in teams, and her cohort capstone was in partnership with the NASA Apollo, Challenger, Columbia Lessons Learned Program (ACCLLP). She recently became the first Senior Knowledge Manager for Harvard Business Publishing, Corporate Learning.
Keenan Overa ’17
Keenan Overa ’17 was honored for the second time at Lehigh University’s Honors Convocation on November 24. Keenan, a senior, is an Eckardt Scholar at Lehigh studying International Relations, Mandarin Chinese, and Russian and was recognized by the College of Arts and Sciences.
Dr. Shital Patel ’11 is completing her residency in the Virginia Commonwealth University Neurology Residency Program. Recently, she was highlighted by the university and stated “I chose VCU Neurology Residency Program because I had such a wonderful interview day experience. The faculty was extremely friendly Dr. Shital Patel ’11 and I just felt the closeness between the faculty and residents. I really liked that sense of community. I also chose this residency program because of the wide variety of patient cases and patient volume. I wanted to be exposed to the many different subspecialties that VCU had to offer compared to other programs to make me the best neurologist that I could be.” Steve Silberg ’92 has accepted the appointment of Chair of Visual Arts at Howard Community College in Columbia, Maryland, beginning in February 2021. Steve began his tenure at HCCC as an adjunct faculty member in 2015,
and became full time in 2017, teaching digital arts and foundations. He also coordinates the foundations area, assembled the digital arts and foundations “print center”, and introduced large workspaces in the digital arts lab to allow for hand-building in various projects. Cole Wenner ’18 et al. published research summarizing four major phytochemicals, namely phenethyl isothiocyanate, capsaicin, withaferin A, and genistein, and their association with autophagy in cancer. They were reviewed in the Journal of Cancer Metastasis and Treatment which also discussed ideas for further investigation essential to understanding their mechanisms, which will guide their clinical applications for cancer prevention and treatment.
Dean’s List William Spear ’15 was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2019 and spring 2020 semesters at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. He is pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. He will graduate from the Boston campus in 2021. Anna Haber ’18 (Occupational Therapy), Jai-Jacob Hoover ’17 (Accounting), Mahad Muhammad ’18 (Biology), Julia Snyder ’18 (Business Communication), and Daniel Tron ’17 (Physiology) earned spots on the University of Scranton’s fall Dean’s List. Garrett Kost ’17 was placed on the Deans’ Commendation List at Gettysburg College for outstanding academic achievement in the Spring 2020 semester. Eric Degenhart ’17 (Psychology), Olivia Minzola ’17 (Mass Communications), Emily Mundorf ’19 (Criminal Justice, Language and Cultures), Anna Olivieri ’17 (English), and Matthew Yurish ’13 (Computer Science) earned spots on the Bloomsburg University fall Dean’s List.
MMI Day of Giving raises more than $35,000 for emergency tuition grants MMI’s Day of Giving, held on July 15 to benefit The Student Hardship Fund, was a huge success! A special thank you to the anonymous alumni donors who offered $15,000 in matching gift dollars to inspire our community! And thank you to the 108 donors who gave a total of $20,525 dollars throughout the course of the day! All in all, our MMI family came together to raise $35,525 in funds designated for emergency tuition grants for our students!
This year’s Day of Giving will be held on the 142nd anniversary of MMI’s first day of classes. Look for ways to support our students again on Friday, May 7, 2021!
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Alumni Notes
(continued)
On November 30, the Class of 1995 gathered to celebrate their 25th reunion virtually. Thank you John Slyconish ’95 for organizing this event! The class’ faculty advisors, Dennis Clarke and Donna Titus, joined 18 members of the class over Zoom. The group started at 7:00 p.m. and some kept going until midnight!
If you would like help scheduling a virtual reunion, please contact Director of Advancement Kim McNulty at kmcnulty@mmiprep.org or 570-636-1108.
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On December 3, the Class of 1980 gathered to celebrate their 40th reunion virtually. Thank you to David Africa ’80 for being the host of the gathering. The group heard an update about MMI from Head of School Justin Kleinheider and then had the opportunity to ask questions of him and Director of Advancement Kim McNulty. After the question and answer session was complete, the class continued to catch up with each other and with special guest, past faculty member, Dr. David Stiller ’61.
Milestones
Events in the lives of the MMI family
Summer memorial service being planned for Monica Martyak ’89 Monica Martyak ’89 passed away at the home of her sister on Monday, January 11, 2021. Monica was born on October 14, 1970, in Hazleton to Judy Martyak and the late Dr. Nicholas Anthony Martyak ’59. Monica graduated from MMI, New York University, Scranton University, and Weidner Law School. She was employed as a lawyer for Pro Sight Specialty Insurance in Monica Martyak ’89 Morristown, NJ. Monica’s survivors include her mother, Judy Martyak of Harrisburg; her five siblings: Dr. Nicholas Martyak ’90, and wife, Catherine, of Atlanta,
GA; Gregory Martyak and wife, Angela, of Philadelphia; Michael Martyak ’97 and wife, Laura, of Fayetteville, NC; Christine Martyak ’87 of Fayetteville, NC; and Stephanie Kominski ’98 and husband, Albert, of Enola; several nieces and nephews; and her beloved feline companions Sebastian, Chewbacca, and Han Solo. Monica’s immediate services and her cremation are private. Her family is hoping to hold a memorial service in the summer. Anyone wishing to attend is asked to send contact info to Jennifer Obeid ’89 via email at nifobeid@ gmail.com or text to (509) 859-2495 so that notifications can be sent when more information is available. Please feel free to share this with friends outside of the MMI family.
Deaths
his parents Dr. Joseph DellaCroce ’21 and Elizabeth DellaCroce; and brother, John DellaCroce ’47. He is survived by his children Dr. Joseph M. DellaCroce Jr. ’76; Catherine Kost and husband, Mark; Robert J. DellaCroce ’82 and wife, Stephanie; and Joan DellaCroce. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.
Hugh K. Breckenridge ’47 passed away on December 17, 2020. He is survived by his children, Ronald and wife, Susan; Sherry Breckenridge; and Lisa Blanchette and husband, Arthur; stepdaughter Monica Harper; and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Marie J. Frederick passed away on February 13, 2020. She is survived by her sons William and wife, Donna, Dale and wife, Eunice, and Thomas Frederick ’73; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Roy J. Arlotto ’58 passed away on September 19, 2020. He is survived by his nephew Michael P. Arlotto and wife, Michelle, and their children, Sarah Elizabeth and Luke Alan; nephew Benjamin Camera; niece Elizabeth Hectman and her wife, Heidi, and son Oren Hectman; and niece Michele C. Faurot, and children Janus and Gabriella.
Joseph J. Breznak passed away on December 9, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Katherine; children Ryan Breznak ’88 and wife, Blanche; Kara Breznak ’93; and Katherine Breznak ’93; and two grandchildren. Michael A. Citro ’53 passed away on November 25, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Mary; daughters Michelle Citro Zeiders and husband, Jeffrey, and Nanette Citro Egan and husband, Robert; five grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild. Nancy K. Deisroth passed away on December 26, 2020. She is survived by her husband, Peter B. Deisroth ’55; her children Kerry Dubravski ’81 and husband, Angelo, Peter Deisroth ’82 and wife, Lori, and Robert Deisroth ’86 and wife, Emily; and six grandchildren. Dr. Joseph M. DellaCroce ’54 passed away on September 27, 2020. “Doc” was predeceased by his wife, Dolores;
David S. Gicking ’56 passed away on August 15, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Doris; sons Robert and wife, Monica, and Paul and wife, Dia; grandsons Robert D. and wife, Kate; Michael; Brian and wife, Mary Beth; and Kevin; and great-grandson, Brad. He is also survived by his niece and many nephews, including Jeffrey S. Gicking ’75 and John M. Gicking ’76. Ruth Elizabeth Hayman passed away on September 27, 2020. She is survived by her son, David Hayman; three daughters: retired MMI faculty member Kathryn Green and her husband, Douglas, Jean Cox and her husband, Thomas, and Margaret Hyman; and three granddaughters. Joseph A. Karpowich ’65 passed away on December 30, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Ellen Ann; brothers Bill, Ronald Karpowich ’60, David Karpowich ’61, Richie, Bobby, and John; sister, Mary Verbonitz; and brother-inlaw, Stanley B. Warner, Jr. ’56.
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Milestones(continued) Richard G. Kasaba ’56 passed away on August 8, 2020. He is survived by wife, Sharon; sons Eric and his wife, Kim, Stacey Kasaba, and Vincent Kasaba and his wife, Amanda; six grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren.
Michael; Denise Revello and husband, Joseph; MMI Athletic Director Vincent Vella and wife, Linda; and Louis Vella and wife, Louise; and her grandchildren, Katelyn, Vincent, David, and Sarah.
Gene LaPorte ’49 passed away on July 22, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Jane; daughters Elizabeth Hahn and husband, Greg, and Christine Davis and husband, Noel; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
John Harvey Wright passed away on November 13, 2020. He is survived by daughters Barbara Ferrara and husband, Drew, Nancy Greenshields and husband, Matthew, and Amy MacAdam ’83 and husband, David; nine grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.
William J. Manganelli Jr. passed away on November 21, 2020. He is survived by his fiancée, Tammy Morris; daughter, Holly Lynn Amaya ’10 and husband, Jorge; sister, Janet Yanuzzi and husband, Dominic; brothers Anthony and Michael Manganelli; and several nieces and nephews.
Richard S. Zanolini ’60 passed away on December 11, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Judith; daughter, Amy Rostock and husband, Nicholas; sons Eric and wife, Mary, and Corey and wife, Jill; four grandchildren; and sisters Janet Gaudio, and Sylvia Kubilus and husband, William.
Theresa Mauk passed away on November 26, 2020. She is survived by her children MMI Chef Teresa Kairewich and husband, Bob, Archie Toth and wife, Barb, and David Toth and wife, Mary; 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Daniel M. McNulty passed away on August 1, 2020. He is survived by his four sons: Daniel and wife, Kathryn, Thomas and wife, Karen, Timothy and wife, MMI Director of Advancement Kim, and Michael and wife, Michelle; and eight grandchildren, including Kevin. K. McNulty ’21. Theresa M. Patrick passed away on September 23, 2020. She is survived by her sons George M. Patrick III ’78 and his wife, Patricia, and Brian A. Patrick ’86 and his wife, Michele; daughter, Patricia McClellan and her husband, Bruce; grandchildren Jessica E. McClellan ’19 and James Hahn; and two great-granddaughters. Maria V. Vella passed away on March 7, 2020. She is survived by her children Emilia Stafford and husband,
At MMI, we always profoundly mourn the loss of our alumni, past parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a considerable toll on all communities, including MMI’s, and we recognize that there are members of our extended family that may not be recognized here. We offer our condolences to all members of the MMI family who have suffered a loss during this difficult time.
2019-2020 Donor Report Omissions MMI Preparatory School apologizes for the following inadvertent omissions from the 2019-2020 Donor Report. We are appreciative of the memorial gifts that were made by the following members of the MMI family: • Mrs. Linda Yakacki (The Head of School’s Circle) • Mrs. Barbara Kirschner (The Red Club) • Mrs. Patricia Lynn (The White Club) • Ms. Barbara Sowers (The Century Club) • Mrs. Judy Gundling (The Benefactors Club)
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Thank you for helping MMI in our commitment to excellence in education.
Memorials
Library Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between July 1, 2020 and January 22, 2021
In memory of Beatrice Abrams Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams In memory of Richard Abrams ’60 Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams In memory of Simon Abrams ’30 Dian, Benji and Roxanne Abrams In memory of Roy Arlotto ’58 Mr. Edward Lesny ’58 and Mrs. Susanne Lesny Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In honor of Rev. Larry Barriger Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer In memory of Mary Ann Bellizia Mr. Thomas Bellizia In memory of Louis and Alexandra Betley Mr. Gregory Betley ’70 and Mrs. Anne Marie Lesniak-Betley In memory of Daniel Bobby Reverend David M. Bobbey ’55 In memory of Michael Bobby Reverend David M. Bobbey ’55 In memory of Robert Bohning ’87 Ms. Lynn J. Tunmer ’87 In honor of Paul Brasavage ’12 Mr. and Mrs. Mark M. Brasavage In memory of Francis Bereznak Mr. Joseph Bereznak ’54 and Mrs. Elissa Bereznak In memory of Joseph Breznak Mr. John E. Kish ’85 In memory of Mr. Kim Byriel Ms. Julia Byriel In memory of Martha Caputo Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos Senape & Associates In memory of Nicholas Caputo Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos
In memory of Nicholas and Martha Caputo Mr. James Senape III ’91 and Mrs. Kimberly Warner-Senape In memory of Joseph Chaykowski ’48 Mr. Anthony C. Merlo In memory of Ambabai and Mahadev Chikarmane Dr. Ajit Chikarmane and Dr. Kalpana Chikarmane Ms. Ambika A. Chikarmane ’03 Mr. Gabriel Griffin and Dr. Sona Chikarmane ’99 Mr. Siripurapu and Mrs. Meghan Siripurapu ’02 In memory of Joseph Christino The Kranyak Family In memory of Mickey Citro ’53 Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In honor of Alexander Composto ’25 Mr. and Mrs. Mark M. Brasavage In honor of Ian Composto ’27 Mr. and Mrs. Mark M. Brasavage In memory of James Conahan ’68 Dr. Thomas J. Conahan III ’59 and Mrs. Catherine Conahan In memory of Thomas Conahan ’26 and Eugenia Conahan Dr. Thomas J. Conahan III ’59 and Mrs. Catherine Conahan In honor of Eve Corazza ’25 Mr. James A. Corazza ’73 and Mrs. Karen Sandrock Corazza Mrs. Laura A. Corazza In memory of Brinton Coxe ’45 Mr. Doug Dobbs and Mrs. Sal Coxe Dobbs In memory of Edward Deal ’42 Mrs. Anne J. Frey In honor of Jeffrey DeAngelo ’23 Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens
In honor of Louis DeAngelo ’21 Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens In memory of Donald DeBellas ’69 Mr. John Czarick ’64 and Mrs. Susan Czarick Mrs. Ingrid DeBellas In memory of Francis Debellas ’65 Mr. John Czarick ’64 and Mrs. Susan Czarick Mrs. Ingrid DeBellas In memory of Nancy Deisroth Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In memory of Dr. Joseph Della Croce ’54 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer In memory of Patrick Dinofrio ’63 Mr. Michael Urenovich ’64 and Mrs. Mary Urenovich In honor of Brenna Eckhart ’23 Ms. Arlene Eckhart In honor of Elizabeth Eckhart ’19 Ms. Arlene Eckhart In memory of Robert Edmunds ’56 Dr. Thomas Edmunds ’62 and Mrs. Pamela Edmunds In memory of Helen Feussner Dr. George G. Feussner ’62 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 Atty. Thomas Ford and Mrs. Maureen Cosgrove Ms. Allison L. Hudak ’01 In memory of Mr. and Mrs. William Fox Sr. ’48 Mr. Jeffrey Fox ’86 and Mrs. Rose Fox In memory of Marie Frederick Mr. Thomas R. Frederick ’73
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Additional memorials In memory of Edward and Rosemary Genetti Mr. Michael Barbetti In memory of David Gicking ’56 Mr. Jeffrey S. Gicking ’75 Mr. John M. Gicking ’76 and Mr. Fred Doss Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis Mrs. Nancy L. Tunnessen In memory of Coach Al Goedecke ’45 Mr. John Hollis ’64 and Mrs. Carol Hollis In memory of Edgar Gower Mr. James M. Dunn ’60 In memory of Scott Graham ’84 Mr. Brian Ayers and Mrs. Cynthia Ayers ’84 Dr. Bruce Klugherz and Dr. Michelle Ecker ’84 Mr. Brian Lucas ’84 and Mrs. Kathy Lucas In honor of Kate Green Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer In memory of David Gundling ’68 Mrs. Judy Gundling Dr. Fredrick Sherman ’63 and Ms. Patricia Rowe In memory of Walter Haentjens ’39 Mr. Gavin P. Haentjens ’94 and Ms. Maggie Slye Mrs. Kathleen S. Haentjens In memory of Ruth Hayman St. Luke’s Men’s Bible Study In memory of Jerry Hludzik ’70 Mr. Gregory Betley ’70 and Mrs. Anne Marie Lesniak-Betley In memory of Catherine Hoch Mr. Jason Cabe and Mrs. Melissa Cabe ’96 In honor of Jake Hoover ’27 Mr. Adam Hoover and Mrs. Jennifer Moisey
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In honor of Josh Hoover ’25 Mr. Adam Hoover and Mrs. Jennifer Moisey
(Continued from page 21)
In honor of Gabe Horvath ’26 Mr. and Mrs. Mike Flock In memory of Robert Jones ’48 Mrs. Harriet Jones In memory of Wilmot Jones ’45 Mrs. Harriet Jones In memory of Dave Kanuck ’64 Mr. John Hollis ’64 and Mrs. Carol Hollis In memory of Joseph Karpowich ’65 Mr. Robert Koslap ’65 and Mrs. Carol Koslap Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos In memory of Richard Kasaba ’56 Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis In memory of Daniel Kimmel Mrs. Helen Kimmel In memory of Paul Kleinheider Mr. and Mrs. David C. Haupt In memory of George Kostick ’64 Mrs. Ceil Kostick In honor of Michael P. Kranyak ’25 Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Kranyak In honor of Edward Kushma ’62 Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Kushma II In honor of Theodore Laputka Sr. and Audrey Laputka Ms. Kerry J. Laputka ’91 In memory of Larry Laub Dr. Herbert Laub ’56 and Mrs. Estee Laub In memory of Francis Libonati The Kranyak Family In memory of Milton Lloyd Dr. Richard Bott ’79 and Mrs. Nadine Bott In honor of Noah Long ’21 Mr. and Mrs. David A. Long
In honor of Kara Lowry Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha In memory of Katherine Lutz The Family of Leo Ravina ’45 Dr. Fredrick Sherman ’63 and Ms. Patricia Rowe In memory of Alvan Lynn ’55 Mrs. Patricia J. Lynn In memory of Lucille Malinski Dr. Peter Salazar ’86 and Dr. Wendy Salazar In memory of Monica Martyak ’89 Ms. Lisa M. Bonar ’88 Mr. and Mrs. Anthony R. Cusat In memory of Jules Mason ’32 Roman-Mason Foundation In memory of Theresa Mauk Mr. Frank Molinaro and Mrs. Gwenann Molinaro In honor of Melinda McCaffrey Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha In memory of Dr. Thomas McGraw ’52 Mr. Sean McGraw Mr. Timothy Reeves and Mrs. Anne McGraw Reeves In memory of Rev. Peter Menghini Mr. William P. Steward ’72 In honor of MMI’s Faculty and Staff Mr. and Mrs. Barry D. Hosier Mr. Frank Swietnicki and Mrs. Stephanie Shandra Swietnicki In honor of Gianna Moisey-Hoover ’23 Mr. Adam Hoover and Mrs. Jennifer Moisey In memory of Leroy B. and Anna M. Moyer Mrs. Kathleen J. Kurtz In honor of Lisa Mucha Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha
Additional memorials In honor of Pamela Mucha Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha
(Continued from page 22)
In memory of William K. Rudewick ’42 and Louisie Rudewick Mr. and Mrs. James M. Biello
In memory of Rudolph and Mary Mucha Mr. Joseph Mucha ’50 and Mrs. Nancy Mucha
In memory of William “Rover” Schaub ’48 Mr. William M. Loftus ’62
In honor of Amanda Neidlinger ’98 Mrs. Shirley Neidlinger
In memory of Joseph Seaman Atty. Joseph J. Seaman ’68
In honor of Nathaniel Neidlinger ’24 Mrs. Shirley Neidlinger
In memory of Bernadette Senape Mr. James Senape III ’91 and Mrs. Kimberly Warner-Senape
In memory of Nicholas Nemesh Dr. Robert Kettrick ’60 and Mrs. Eileen Kettrick In memory of Raymond Nesler Mr. Paul D. Lesser ’73 Senape & Associates In memory of Daniel Novak Dr. Ashley E. Morrison ’05 In memory of Bernard and Helen Osmanski Mr. Anthony M. Osmanski ’70 In honor of Katelyn Overa ’21 Mr. Leonard E. Sabol In honor of Keenan Overa ’17 Mr. Leonard E. Sabol In memory of Theresa Patrick Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer In memory of April Petrick Mr. John R. Petrick In memory of Betty Racosky Mr. Johan Vos and Mrs. Margaret Vos ’85 In memory of Cecelia Ravina Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos In memory of Karen Riley Mr. E. Edward Riley ’61 In honor of Jason Roberts ’25 Mr. and Mrs. Dale Roberts In honor of Jakob Rossi ’24 Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Mundie
In memory of Richard Shaak Mr. Nicholas Dei Tos ’71 and Mrs. Patricia Dei Tos In honor of Carol Silberg Mr. Jed Silberg ’94 and Mrs. Sharon Silberg In honor of Alex Smith ’22 Mr. and Mrs. Johnny M. Smith Sr. In memory of William J. Smith Jr. ’48 Mrs. Nancy Biddle ’83 In memory of Andrew Stofan ’22 Mr. Albert Antolick ’56 and Mrs. Mary Ellen Antolick In memory of Harold and Millie Sugarman Mr. Scott J. Sugarman ’73 In memory of Joseph Tito ’92 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Tito In memory of Carol Tunnessen The Kranyak Family In memory of Walter Tunnessen ’57 Mrs. Nancy L. Tunnessen In memory of Mary Jane Urenovitch Dr. Joseph V. Urenovitch ’55 In memory of Bill and Lois Vaughn Mr. Jordan Klemow ’80 and Mrs. Jennifer Klemow
In memory of Marija Vukcevich Dr. William Shergalis ’58 and Mrs. Miki Shergalis Wright Township Supervisor Matthew Howton, Wright Township Supervisor Louis Welebob, and Wright Township Secretary and Treasurer Pamela Heard In memory of Dr. David Wagner Dr. Fredrick Sherman ’63 and Ms. Patricia Rowe In memory of Dr. David Wagner and Mrs. Edith Wagner Atty. David Stern and Mrs. Barbara Wagner ’79 In memory of Craig L. Wallen Mr. Karl Wallen ’87 In memory of Michael Wassel ’51 Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Boyle In memory of John Watro Mr. Edward Lesny ’58 and Mrs. Susanne Lesny In honor of Wendy Whitcomb Dr. Peter Salazar ’86 and Dr. Wendy Salazar In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Williams Mr. Robert Klotz ’58 and Mrs. Carol Klotz In memory of David Yakacki ’69 Mrs. Elenora Duerr In memory of Paul Young Mrs. Ann Young In memory of Sarah Jane Yuscavage ’04 Mr. and Mrs. Kevin R. Foley Ms. Lillian L. Urenovich In memory of Richard Zanolini ’60 Dr. Richard Bott ’79 and Mrs. Nadine Bott In memory of Gloria Zehner Mr. Wilson Zehner ’81 and Mrs. Michele Zehner
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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 faculty members get in the Halloween spirit!
Important Dates MMI Entrance Exam and Visitation. . . . . . . . . . . . March 27 Day of Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 7 Commencement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27 MMI Entrance Exam and Visitation. . . . . . . . . . . . June 19 Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament. . . . . . June 25