Blueprint - Spring 2016

A Publication of the NAZARETH

ACADEMY Community

Blueprint SPRING 2016

OPENING THE DOORS OF OPPORTUNITY { Yesterday & Today { PARK

OGDEN

IN THIS ISSUE

BRAINARD

Seizing the Opportunity Catching Up with Chick Evans Scholars Fine Arts Success • Dedication to Service Opening Doors to Tomorrow

SEIZING THE OPPORTUNITY

It’s one thing for Nazareth Academy to open doors of opportunity for our students. It’s quite another to see how students seize those opportunities to accomplish great things. The 2015-16 school year has already seen remarkable accomplishments by students who are creating an exciting academic legacy.

Perfection

Scholarship & Service

Nazareth carries a rich tradition of surpassing national and state averages in standardized test scores. This year, we can also boast that two students achieved perfection on these types of tests.

Meghan McGarry ’17 earned a

perfect 36 on the ACT test. Out of the 1.8 million students who take the test every year, only about 1,000 get the highest possible score of 36. History Department Chair, Jon Paul Jurasas cannot praise Meghan enough, “What an amazing feat! In AP U.S. History Meghan is a class leader. She is the ideal mix of organized and personable. She is a delight to talk with and does an exceptional job managing large amounts of information and placing it in proper historical context. Meghan’s talent and academic success make me proud to be part of the Nazareth community.”

Nazareth takes great pride in being one of only a few schools in the state to offer EPICS (Engineering Projects in Community Service).

In only a few years, the Nazareth program has earned acclaim and set a high standard on a national level. In October 2015, our students were honored with the EPICS Showcase Award, granted to a 2014-15 project which exemplifies the vision and mission of EPICS to inspire and prepare students for the future while improving their communities today. The award committee said, “The Nazareth Academy projects exemplify the best of the integration of engineering design and lasting impact to improve the lives of underrepresented members of the community.”

Jiacheng “Frank” Li ’16 earned a perfect

score on his Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB Exam in Spring 2015. Frank was one of only twelve students in the world to earn every point possible on this exam.

“The news of Frank’s perfect score fills us with great pride,” says Principal Tracy.

It is a wonderful example of using one’s God-given talents to their fullest potential and certainly reflects the academic focus and rigor that underscore a Nazareth Academy education.”

Fine Arts

Beginning with our founding in 1900 and guided by the example of the Congregation of St. Joseph, Nazareth continues the legacy of Fine Arts education. All students continue to integrate the arts into their academic course work as well as extra-curricular involvement.

Congratulations to EPICS members Vivi Garcia, Sergio Gamboa, Sam McLachlan, DeAngelo Medrano, Esai Morales, Joshua Napoles and Connor O’Neill for their commitment and leadership.

After auditioning in Fall 2015, Kyle Norbut ’16 and Evan Sellas ’17 were selected for the All-State production of Rent at this year’s Theatre Fest. Both student-actors gave up weekends for rehearsals before performing in front of thousands of people in January. This is the first time since 2009 that Nazareth students have been chosen for the show.

Seniors Catherine Klostermann and Aidan Walton were selected as members of the Illinois Ambassadors of Music’s 2016 European Tour.

Both student musicians were nominated based on their musical skills, grade point average and involvement in school life. For both, the five concerts in five countries will be their first time traveling to Europe.

According to the letter from Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, “You have earned this distinction because your musicianship, scholarship and leadership are among the best in Illinois.”

A Letter from the President and Principal

Nazareth Academy, sponsored by the Congregation of Saint Joseph, is a Catholic, coed, college preparatory high school dedicated to living Jesus’ mission of unity and committed to educating the whole person.

1209 W. Ogden Avenue La Grange Park, Illinois 60526 Phone: 708.354.0061 Fax: 708.354.0109 www.nazarethacademy.com President: Mr. Dennis Moran Principal: Mrs. Deborah Tracy ’82 Academic Dean: Sr. Terry Middendorf, CSJ ’60 Director of Curriculum and Instruction: Mrs. Therese Hawkins ’79 Director of Finance: Mrs. Mary Callaghan Dean of Students: Mr. Tim Racki Editor: Ms. Alena Murguia ’89 Graphic Design and Print: The Stevens Group Please direct comments to: amurguia@nazarethacademy.com View Blueprint online at: www.nazarethacademy.com/blueprint Contact the editor to help stop duplicate and undeliverable mail by updating your address. Your help is appreciated.

: Nazareth Academy

We have all heard the words, “When opportunity knocks…” and know there are a few ways to complete the quote. “You answer!” and “You open the door!” are just two possibilities. But, as we know, it is not always that easy. Many things can get in our way.

Fear or lack of confidence in ourselves or others have kept many of us from taking a leap of faith.

At Nazareth, we pride ourselves in challenging and inspiring our students to “open the door” – to be curious, engaged learners, tapping into their creative potential and ultimately creating their own legacies. Whether they leave their mark academically, or in pursuit of the arts, via athletic accomplishments or in service to those in need, our students and graduates are making an incredible difference both locally and globally.

We celebrate our Naz alum who have embraced an opportunity set before them.

Specifically, we salute those who have “gone for it” in the areas of Scholarship, Service, Spirit or Unity. Sometimes their journeys have been specific and planned. Other times, they have found themselves in places they never even imagined. Over and over again, their life paths affirm what we know to be true: When we are open to possibilities, passionate to the core and willing to allow God to take the lead, great things happen!

What better time than the Easter season to recommit ourselves to being people of hope, resurrection and infinite possibility. “Eyes open…ears attentive, spirit alert...and sleeves rolled up for ministry,” (from A Portrait of a CSJ Daughter/Son).

Easter Blessings to you,

: @NazarethLGP : Nazareth Academy Alumni Association : Nazareth Academy 1209 Podcast : @NazarethLGP

Dennis Moran President

Deborah Vondrasek Tracy ’82 Principal

: @NazarethLGP pg / 3

Class Notes In January 2016, Ryan Kramer ’15 received the 2015 Class 3A Player of the Year Award from the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association (IHSBCA). This prestigious award is given to recognize those who have displayed exceptional character and talent while representing Illinois High School Baseball. Coach Lee Milano was named the 2015 Area Baseball Coach of the Year at the same event.

Katelyn Cahill ’14 was selected to the 2014-2015 Big East All-Academic Team. Katelyn is currently playing softball for the Butler University Bulldogs.

Talia Sharpp ’14, a

Political Science Major at Hampton University in Virginia, has been selected as one of two recipients of the English-Speaking Union Luard Morse Scholarship.

The scholarship provides $25,000 toward one semester of study at any university in the United Kingdom during the 2016-2017 academic year.

Matthew Serafin ’13

was Photo Editor of the Marquette Tribune last semester and took a selfie with Hillary Clinton when he covered a news conference in Milwaukee. He is also singing with the university’s Gospel Choir and departed in January for a tour across the U.S., Mexico and Europe with Up With People – a six-month adventure of global community service, peace outreach and performing arts.

In Memoriam September 2015 - February 2016

We prayerfully remember all those in the Nazareth community who have passed away.

Paula Linchesky Alberts ’85, mother of Molly ’13 and Joe ’16 Rosemary Ford Baer ’76 Mariclare Barrett ’69 Robert Centanni, brother of Mary Ann ’59, Carole ’63 and Pat Puccini ’61 Freminnie Moccio Jodoin ’74

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Samantha Wilcox ’13 is currently a junior at Benedictine University. She is a Music major, Piano Emphasis. In 2015, she was one of 29 Benedictine students who represented the national interests of Germany at the National Model U.N. conference in New York City where they were honored with several Distinguished Delegation Awards. Samantha was also one of seven Benedictine students to join more than 600 students from China at a Model U.N. simulation at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an, China as part of an exchange program which began between the two universities in 2009. She has served as the College of Liberal Arts Chair on the Student Senate since her freshman year. Samantha was chosen as not only the most “popular” delegate, but was chosen to give the final speech at the closing ceremonies.

She also climbed the Great Wall of China.

Trish Masterson ’12, senior at University of

St. Francis, was named to the College Sports Information Directors of America College Division Academic All-District Women’s Soccer Team. A First-Team selection, Masterson was chosen as the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Week on two occasions last season. A Biology/Pre-Med major, Masterson is a two-time All-CCAC and CCAC All-Academic honoree as well as an NAIA Scholar-Athlete.

Phyllis Metz Lyons ’56

Julia Kilcommons ’10 married Dan Woods ’10 in November 2015. Many Nazareth alums

and current students were either members of the wedding party or guests.

Mitchell Serafin ’10 earned his electrical engineering degree from Northwestern University, then traveled to Ecuador to participate in a language-immersion program.

Congrats to Erin Voss ’08 who got married in October. Many alums were in attendance to celebrate Erin’s big day, including: Christina Arquilla ’08, Kathleen Chizewski ’08, Emily Duranty ’08, Meaghan Foody ’08, Kelsey Ghilarducci ’08, Alison McCracken ’08, Julie Schiffler ’08 and Ellyn Vranicar ’08.

Steve Gray ’06, Head of Operations and trainer at Right Fit, celebrated Right Fit’s expansion to a second location in La Grange in the fall of 2015. Steve is also an assistant Football coach at Nazareth where he is in charge of strength and conditioning.

Much love and congrats to Sue Martin (Naz Faculty) on the birth of her granddaughter, Susanna (Susie) Rose Martin born in December.

Susie is the daughter of Jerry Martin ’02.

Elizabeth Manfredi ’69

Clelia Reato, mother of Vitulia Reato Ruzicka ’71 and Donna Reato Mantucca ’73

Mary Kern Manning ’54

Patricia Rodgers ’54

Jerry Mastalarz, father of Michele ’88 and Jerry ’90

Mary Sawa, mother of Scott ’03 and Megan ’04

Timothy J. Moudry, father of Kimberly Moudry Quilty ’96, Tim Moudry ’98 and Theresa Moudry ’02, father-in-law of Jim Quilty ’96

Joseph Tybor, father of Sarah Tybor Clark ’96 and Adam ’99, father-in-law of Kelly Hartigan Tybor ’99

James Quilty, father of Jim Quilty ’96 and Bethany Quilty Kozal ’94, father-in-law of Kimberly Moudry Quilty ’96

Louis Yore, father of Maeve Yore ’93 and Siobhan Yore Lynch ’98 Please notify Nazareth Academy of the death of an alumnus. We apologize for any errors that occur in this In Memoriam section.

SAVE the DATE

Melissa Dudak Byram ’01 welcomed her

second child, Madelyn Jane, on October 12, 2015.

Mom, dad Mark and sister Mackenzie are all doing well.

Four Pillars 2016 September 24

The Class of 1973 celebrated their 60th birthday bash together in Lake Geneva in September 2015.

Christine Palumbo ’71 presented “#Dietetic Gina Tepavchevich Hosch ’98 got married

in the CSJ Chapel in October 2014. Pictured left to right are: Meagan Gallagher ’99, Shannon Donovan ’99, Amy Tepavchevich ’01, Elizabeth Sorensen Maltz ’98, Kristin Salvador Sekulich ’98 and Colleen McCoy Condon ’98. Also in attendance, but not pictured, were Melissa Blomquist Bosnic ’99 and cousin Tom Tepavchevich ’98.

Public Communications Inc. has named Wendi

Professional: Using Social Media to Enrich Your Career” at the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in October 2015.

Irene DuCharme Ruckoldt ’63 recently

retired after 30 years with the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Swierczek Koziol ’93

its newest Senior Vice President. Wendi, who joined the PCI team in 1999 as an Assistant Account Executive, has steadily advanced in the agency while providing strategic counsel and account management to many of the firm’s largest and most sophisticated programs.

Kit O’Toole ’90 celebrated the release of her

new book, Michael Jackson FAQ: All That’s Left to Know About the King of Pop, in December 2015.

Annamarie Dowling-Garrott ’89 released her music CD “Annamarie’s Smooth Sax Christmas” in December 2015.

Patrick Thorburn ’89, history teacher at Rolling Meadows High School, received the 2016 State of Illinois Outstanding Teacher of American History Award from the Illinois Daughters of the American Revolution.

During the 17th Annual Hispanic Ministry “Noche de Gala” this Fall, the Archdiocese of Chicago presented the St. Teresa of Avila Award to Kathy Brazda ’74, CSJ. Read more about Sr. Kathy, who also celebrated her 25th Jubilee with the CSJs in October, on page 7.

This group from the Class of 1961 have maintained a close friendship over the years.

Some of these women have known each other since grade school (Divine Providence), but most from their good old days at Nazareth.

All have maintained contact with each other for the past 54 years, but it has been the last 20 years where they see each other at least 6 times a year (including traveling together).

Back Row: Nancy Wehrs Rusk, Judy Nix,

Nazareth hosted its inaugural Four Pillars Awards in the fall of 2015. We are proud to announce this year’s awards will be celebrated on Saturday, September 24, 2016.

We will host Mass at the Congregation of Saint Joseph Chapel at 5 p.m., followed by a reception for honorees and guests from 6 - 8 p.m. in Springer Hall at Nazareth.

The Four Pillars Awards are a way to acknowledge and honor alumni and those who are well-connected to Nazareth, who are thriving in their community or career and continue to represent our four pillars of Scholarship, Service, Spirit and Unity well.

Please visit our alumni website, www.nazarethacademyalumni.org for more information on the Awards and a link to submit a nomination. Individuals must be nominated and a complete application must be filled out for consideration of this award.

Kathy Hyde Schremp, Mary Ingevaldson VanEekeren, Mary Gaffney Licar. Front Row: Colette Gibson Loecke, Karen Alioto Marcheschi, Marilee Shea Halpin.

Sr. Lorraine Mark ’54 was accidentally omitted

from the list of Naz classmates and 60 year Jubilarians in our last issue. Alumni from the early 60’s remember her as Sr. Kateri, an English teacher. Sr. Lorraine founded one of the CSJ ministries, Christ in the Wilderness, in Stockton, Illinois in 1980.

2015 Four Pillars Recipients

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FINE ARTS

Success Stories DANNY MALY

’05 To call Danny Maly a “dreamer” is a real compliment. “I would absolutely tell high school students to have dreams and to follow them.

It is possible to love what you do if you dedicate yourself to your dream and work toward it.” Danny is proof of his own advice, actively working as a stage manager on Broadway and Off-Broadway alongside some of theatre’s most renowned and celebrated talent.

His current professional success began with opportunities at Nazareth. “My time spent in Naz Drama taught me to strive for excellence. I learned about community and the importance of working together on a production as a collaborative team.” Danny also points to his Kairos experience at Nazareth as a unique opportunity to “really allow me to see classmates and myself from new angles.” These moments of discovery were the beginning of an ongoing journey.

“I learn new things every single day…about myself, my craft and how best to handle situations and issues. In live theatre anything can happen and each day brings new challenges.”

Danny has integrated those lessons, especially that high standard of excellence, to find consistent work in the very competitive entertainment business. While Naz alum will remember Danny for his work on stage, his college and professional experiences have been spent behind the scenes. “I found that my background as an actor was an asset when communicating with actors, directors and designers, allowing me to really excel in stage management.”

After Nazareth, Danny attended Saint Louis University, working as a stage manager there and in the St. Louis theatre community. After spending three years working full time as a union stage manager there, he packed three suitcases and took a leap of faith in his dream, moving to New York City. With the support of family and friends, three years later he can celebrate that leap of faith.

“When I moved to New York, I decided that I would try and work as much as possible because work creates work – the more people you meet and work with, the more connected you become.” In a profession that demands moving from production to production, Danny understands the true value of these relationships. “Building and maintaining professional connections is invaluable because you never know who may lead you to your next project. For the same reason, you should never burn bridges – theatre is a relatively small community of artists.”

Right now, Danny is working on an open-ended Off-Broadway play and enjoying the longevity of a consistent project, a refreshing change of pace. Undoubtedly, he is also putting in the hard work required to continue making his dreams a reality.

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CAROLYN KRAS

’02

For Carolyn Kras, Nazareth will always be the place that sparked her passion for theatre.

“Mrs. White’s comprehensive drama classes imparted foundational skills that prepared me well to study drama at the university level.” She played an active part in the Naz Drama program, traveling to the Illinois State Theatre Festival twice, for both Alice in Wonderland and Charlotte’s Web. “Theatre Fest was a special experience that allowed us to share our production with a wider community and learn from our peers at other high schools.”

Beyond those fine arts opportunities, Carolyn recognizes the longterm benefits of her well-rounded Nazareth education. “I remember thinking that, as a writer, I would never use what I learned in my Physics class. Ironically, one of my screenplays is about a revolutionary physicist, so that class did come in handy after all. As Mrs. White says, ‘be a sponge.’ Take everything in because you may never know when you may use it.”

Carolyn earned her Bachelor’s in Drama from Washington University in Saint Louis, then completed her Master’s in Dramatic Writing at Carnegie Mellon University, where she also met her husband Brian Forrester. They moved to Los Angeles where she worked as a freelance writer and NBC page before her most recent opportunity.

Carolyn is currently Playwright in Residence at Sell A Door Theatre Company in London, thanks to a Fulbright LUSK Award, one of the most prestigious and selective programs operating world-wide.

The Fulbright Award allows Carolyn to work on a new play, which she can research and develop in both England and Scotland. The play is scheduled to receive a staged reading at Sell A Door Theatre Company on April 24, 2016 and has been named a United Nations Orange Day Event, intended to draw attention to the cause of ending violence against women. Proceeds will benefit both the United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women and Rape Crisis England and Wales.

Since the play is set in King George III’s England, her London residency has been an asset. “Being surrounded by the British dialect has helped me make the characters’ dialogue more authentic.” She also feels immersed in the world of her characters, living among Georgian architecture and clothing and even eating food appropriate to the period.

“I had always wanted to spend time in London’s theatre scene ever since, as an undergrad, I did a summer study abroad program at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.” In fact, she encourages current students to try and study abroad. “Living in a foreign country and participating in a different school system can catalyze new perspectives on the world and your place in it. The Fulbright has allowed me to learn and grow as an artist and I feel lucky to live in a country that offers these generous opportunities for international engagement.”

Upon her return to Los Angeles, Carolyn plans to continue writing for theatre, television and film. She has a screenplay in development called Magnetic that is currently attaching actors.

DEDICATION

to Service

JOSIANE UMUHOZA

’12

Josiane Umuhoza credits Nazareth Academy with teaching her how to be a global citizen and, even more importantly, with empowering her to believe in herself and her ability to affect change.

When her entire family in Rwanda was ripped from her during the 1994 genocide, many opportunities disappeared with them, but the Congregation of St. Joseph, Nazareth and Sue and Bernie Martin reopened those doors. “If it weren’t for the excellent and exceptional education I got from Nazareth, I wouldn’t be who I am today.”

Who Josiane is, is another Webster University senior ready to graduate and ready to dedicate her life to empowering women and youth by going to work for the United Nations. “I want to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.” She has already gained invaluable experience on that front, spending last summer back in Rwanda, interning with the Ministry of Gender and Family Protection. She worked directly with gender based violence victims, primarily women, making sure the Ministry’s laws were being implemented in rural areas of the country.

“I wanted to learn how a country other than America deals with Human Rights. What does ‘empowerment’ mean to these women?” Josiane witnessed a culture lacking in formal education where men still view women as inferior or as property. “A lot of men there have no idea about basic human rights. I suggested to the Ministry that one way to educate them would be radio advertising since radio is one of the few sources of media rural residents can afford.”

Josiane believes passionately in the role of education in affecting change. “I want to encourage young people to get a good education because without education, they cannot move forward.” She is especially grateful to all the kind teachers at Nazareth who showed so much patience as she struggled with English when she started here in 2010.

“I am forever grateful to Ms. Augustyn, my English teacher, who was always willing to help. English class was not easy at all, but she helped me go through it step by step.”

Ultimately, the lessons she learned best were to work hard and believe in herself. No matter the challenge, she encourages students to strive for excellence. “You have to be confident in order to accomplish all that you want to become and want to do.”

Josiane believes that her mission to give back to Rwanda connects deeply to her Nazareth education. “I believe in empowering women and youth leadership as the best way to move forward in terms of development, so I want to share the education and wisdom I received at Nazareth with the world.”

KATHY BRAZDA

’74 Sister Kathy Brazda, CSJ found her opportunity to serve God and others through a mission of accompaniment.

In the early 2000’s she was part of a group engaged with residents in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago. “Very much like the early Sisters, we were dividing up the city to discern the needs of our dear neighbors.” Her committee found immigrants who didn’t always know where to go for help, who had difficulty accessing services and navigating a complex system. “We discerned a need for accompaniment.”

In 2008 Sr. Kathy, Sr. Carol Crepeau and Father Bob Casey founded a new CSJ ministry, Taller de Jose, where Sr. Kathy remains as Director. Taller de Jose offers a number of services to Little Village residents. “We can really walk together with each person in his or her time of need, as they face unique challenges. We can help them sort out the problem, make a plan, negotiate through language, physical and even legal challenges.”

In Fall 2015, Sr. Kathy earned a recognition for her outstanding work with this marginalized community when she received the St. Teresa of Avila Award from the Archdiocese of Chicago. This honor recognizes the work of a woman religious who is engaged in Hispanic Ministry.

“I feel honored to be recognized as someone who is working toward advancing the Latino ministry, but even more importantly, I had just returned from a sabbatical in Avila when I received the call from Bishop Rojas. To have been immersed in St. Teresa’s town, understanding her presence and feeling a oneness with her, made this even more special.”

More important than external recognition is Sr. Kathy’s internal recognition of her own mission. “My approach to accompaniment has deepened as I’ve learned what it really means to be accompanied on life’s journey.” She gives credit to all those who’ve helped her find that knowledge, especially her fellow Sisters, family and friends. She also credits her strong start at Nazareth Academy.

“At Nazareth, I learned first-hand about leadership, especially the leadership of women. Nazareth has always been about creating leaders – for the church and for the world.” She points back to outstanding teachers like Sr. Ellen Springer, Sr. Joan Marie and Sr. Modesta, who inspired her love of learning and her first vocation as a teacher. Sr. Kathy has her Bachelor’s from University of Illinois Chicago and two Master’s degrees from Loyola University and Dominican University.

When asked what advice she would give to high school students if she were back in the classroom, Sr. Kathy paused briefly before saying, “Realize that you are loved and you are good. When you strive to act out of that knowledge, you will be and do goodness.”

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CHICK EVANS: Scholarship, Fellowship, Leadership Each year, Nazareth Academy shares outstanding news of the millions of dollars in merit-based scholarships that our students earn for college. We know that this financial assistance opens more doors of opportunity for Nazareth alumni to pursue advanced degrees and a lifetime of success. Oftentimes, the criteria for these scholarships aligns perfectly with the qualities and pillars of a Nazareth education.

The Evans Scholars Foundation, which grants full college tuition and housing scholarships to high achieving golf caddies, is a perfect example. In addition to their strong caddie record and financial need, Chick Evans applicants must demonstrate an excellent academic record as well as outstanding character, integrity and leadership. The Evans Scholar goal of “excellence in scholarship, fellowship and leadership” is certainly a goal shared by Nazareth Academy.

We reached out to a few Nazareth alumni who are also Evans Scholars to ask about their experience.

LINDSAY PANEK TRUESDALE Teacher at Pleasantdale School

’02

Nazareth and the Chick Evans Caddy Scholarship are two things that I hold dear to my heart.

I started to caddy at Edgewood Valley after my freshman year in order to help pay part of my Nazareth tuition. Caddying helped me earn money, learn good social skills and it was flexible, which was important because I was a three sport athlete. Sports were my life: they still are as I am a physical education teacher. My caddymaster, Michael McNamara, who we fondly referred to as Buster, was very accommodating to my schedule. The hours were flexible as long as I was consistently there and was ready to work hard. It was nice to be outside and I always learned a little more about the game of golf. I even got to caddy for Blackhawks legend Stan Mikita!

Nazareth opened other doors for me too, particularly the door to Jesus. I was a socially awkward kid. My parents were divorced. I was smart, but my attention span was non-existent. Had I been at a large public high school, I would have drowned. Nazareth gave me a chance to thrive. I was able to excel in sports while also being involved with The Announcer as a sports editor. Teachers, coaches and counselors were able to personally know and guide me. People like Sister Beth, Ms. Denise, Ms. Maloney and Mrs. Caragher were able to show me how pg / 8

PATRICK QUINN

’14

Sophomore Political Science Major at Marquette University Nazareth opened the door of opportunity for me by providing me with an excellent education, teaching me the tools to be successful at Marquette University.

My interest in Political Science began in Mr. Jurasas’ CWI class and Mr. Wejman’s Government class. Working on History Fair and being involved in Model UN were also great opportunities. Participating in school activities like sports (soccer and lacrosse in particular) and clubs also provided me with fellowship experiences. I learned leadership skills while in service to others as a student leader with the Prairie Restoration project my senior year. I carry all these principles with me in my daily life by trying to live up to the high standards that were taught at Nazareth.

I began caddying the summer after 8th grade at Chicago Highlands Golf Club. I love caddying and meeting all types of interesting people.

As an Evans Scholar I continue to meet so many amazing people. I live with other students whose stories are truly inspiring to me. The Chick Evans Scholarship has allowed me to attend my dream college, which most likely would not have been possible otherwise.

Both Nazareth and the Evans Family are communities full of caring individuals who work daily to improve the lives of students.

Without the support of many people at Nazareth, specifically my counselor Mr. Milos, my awesome teachers Mrs. Hawkins and Ms. Garcia, and our principal, Mrs. Tracy, I would not have achieved my goal of being an Evans Scholar.

Jesus shined in my life and in the lives of all those around me. Coaches like Mr. Saunders, were able to push me to not only want excellence, but how to take action in my life to achieve excellence. I learned how to be disciplined, mature, caring and, most of all, how to be of service to others.

The family aspect of Nazareth is very similar to the family aspect at the Chick Evans House at the University of Illinois. Having the house made college seem smaller and less overwhelming. Just like at Naz, it gave me the opportunity to form caring and bonding relationships that challenged me to come out of my shell and be the best person I could be. When you have those chances to develop close bonds, you have the opportunity to truly experience life.

In the busy life I lead now as a wife, mother and teacher, I don’t always see my Nazareth and Evans families as much as I’d like to. But the occasional social gathering such as an annual Evans Scholars White Sox Outing, or taking my son to a Nazareth basketball game, or running the Nazareth 5k, instantly bring me back and remind me how grateful I am for the opportunities that both have given me.

As a teacher, I get to see kids learn how to navigate life and help guide them in that journey. Sometimes we wonder where our journey will lead. I am often reminded that everything happens for a reason and God provides for us if we have faith and take action. I am very grateful for the strong foundation that Nazareth and the Chick Evans Scholarship have given me.

DANIELLE UHLARIK Television Writer in Los Angeles

’00

I had a great high school experience. The things that always stand out to me about Nazareth are the dedicated teaching staff, its intimate size and its strong feeling of community.

The faculty is very passionate, with a strong focus on independent learning.

I often found the courses challenging, but because of Nazareth’s high academic standards I was more than prepared for college at Northwestern University.

Teachers also prioritized activities and experiences beyond the classroom, which was very important to me. I was interested in theatre, but also wanted to play sports. Because of its size, its strong sense of community and its support structure, Nazareth allowed me to balance both. I was always impressed with the mutual support between activities. The theatre program was supportive of games and the athletes were very involved in theatre productions. Nazareth provided many opportunities and groups for community outreach, and the school is very open to new student-created initiatives. All of these factors flowed into the Evans Scholar requirements of scholarship, fellowship and leadership.

My first year at Northwestern University, I was the only female Evans Scholar at that school. In the following years, I was joined by other women. It was a great experience and I definitely made friends for life.

Like Nazareth, the Evans Scholar family has a strong sense of giving back and the Evans Scholar network is vast. I’ve been fortunate to leverage the Evans Scholar network for job opportunities and I have recommended Evans Scholar alums for jobs. I still have never seen anything like the Evans Scholar community. Everyone is extremely proactive when it comes to helping out fellow alums.

Both the Nazareth and Evans families are full of truly great and impressive people.

The Tradition Continues..

LOURDES ESPINOZA

IT Quality Analyst for John Deere Information Systems I was fortunate enough to attend Nazareth with the help of the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund, which gives Chicago area students educational opportunities they would otherwise be unable to access.

Attending Nazareth was a privilege and a door of opportunity for me. Nazareth gave me a great education that prepared me for college in a way my local high school could not have done.

During my time at Nazareth I noticed how everyone valued scholarship, fellowship and leadership. I think by surrounding myself with people who valued these principles, I prepared myself to be an Evans Scholar.

In high school, I caddied for three years at Glen Oak Country Club in Glen Ellyn. As an Evans Scholar, I attended the University of Illinois Urbana and graduated with a BS in Technical Systems Management.

I caddied throughout my college career, caddying for a total of eight years.

During my time in the Evans House at U of I, I was the Philanthropy Chair and the Campus Events Chair.

Attending college was something I had been striving for since I was in elementary school. No one in my family had the opportunity to attend college and financially it would be extremely difficult for me to make it a reality. The scholarship gave me the opportunity to attend the college of my dreams without having to worry about how I was going to pay for it.

The Evans Scholarship also has an extensive network that guided me throughout my college career. Fellow Evans Scholars helped me choose classes, prepare for interviews and gave me job leads. Without their help I don’t think I would be where I am today. I currently work at John Deere, where the CEO is an Evans Alum from Purdue.

I have been blessed with opportunities to improve my situation and always remember the Bible quote, “to whom much is given, much will be required” (Luke 12:48). I continue to participate in local LEGO Leagues, STEM events and give back to the same organizations that helped me get to where I am today.

Both the Naz and Evans families are made up some of the nicest and most generous people I have ever met. I know if I were to need help, I could reach out to both my Evans and Naz families and they would extend their hand. I would do the same for them.

CONGRATULATIONS TO CASSANDRA MARQUEZ Nazareth congratulates Cassandra Marquez, a senior from Berwyn, who has earned the Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship for 2016. Cassie plans to use the scholarship to attend college at the University of Colorado in Boulder. “One of my goals with college was to go someplace completely new.

The Chick Evans Scholarship will

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allow me to fulfill that dream and gives my mom such peace of mind, knowing it’s all paid for,” says Cassie, who admits that both she and her mom cried when they got the news.

Cassie has been a caddie at Glen Oak Country Club for the past three years, completing over 150 loops. As a Daniel Murphy Scholar, she also enrolled in a special caddie program at Elmhurst College organized by Western Golf Association and the Evans Scholars Foundation. “I am so grateful for this opportunity,” says Cassie. “And now to realize I’m a member of the Evans family, I think I’m still in a little shock.”

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Opening Doors

TO TOMORROW

THUNDANDER FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP The Thunander Family has felt connected to Nazareth since before Matt ’01, Crew ’02 and John ’06 were even students.

Thank you from our students

According to Steve, “I would bring the boys to watch football and baseball when they were just three or four years old.” So when Steve and Cissy were looking for the right Catholic high school for their family, Nazareth was the top choice. “We wanted to keep them in a faith-based environment following St. Francis Xavier,” says Cissy. “Our choice in Nazareth has repeatedly been validated by the academics and values we witnessed.”

The Thunander boys (now men) all agree that Nazareth was the perfect choice for their family. John tells the story of his freshman year at the University of Dayton. “We had to write a paper in English class.

When we got our rough drafts back, the teacher used mine as an

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example of the proper way to form a paper. Someone leaned over and asked where I learned to write like that and I shrugged my shoulders and said, ‘high school.’ I remember being perplexed as to why they wouldn’t have studied that and then it hit me, Naz really is College Prep.”

Crew adds, “Nazareth gave me an opportunity to think critically and outside the box. The teachers and coaches challenged me to be the best that I could be.” All three Thunanders were very involved in the full life of Nazareth, playing sports and leading Kairos retreats. Steve and Cissy are convinced that, “only at Nazareth could our sons have been so involved and successful, while still maintaining a happy home and family life, which is so important to us.”

“You feel good when you feel the school is your partner, when you see your children involved in liturgies, when you can pick up a phone and reach a coach or the dean or the principal without any barriers to communication,” explains Cissy. In Nazareth, the Thunanders found an environment that mirrored and practiced the same values their sons were taught at home and continue to live as adults. “The core values of service and unity are the same values that my wife and I live by on a daily basis,” explains Crew.

Steve and Cissy also chose to put those values into action at Nazareth, serving as Booster Club reps and co-Presidents. Steve was also a founding member of Nazareth’s Fathers Club and eventually, when John was a senior, Cissy joined Nazareth’s staff as the Public Relations Coordinator. Says Steve, “Nazareth is a place where both students and parents are welcomed to ‘get involved.’ We chose to do that.”

In fact, Steve would go so far as to say that “Nazareth is a place that you never really leave.” Now that Steve and Cissy are both retired, they have found new ways to stay connected. Steve joined the Board of Trustees in 2015 “because it was a way to give back a little of all that we had been given” and beginning with the 2016-17 school year, the Thunander Family Scholarship will help future Roadrunners have some of the same opportunities.

Cissy feels strongly that when it comes to cost vs. need, “Catholic education is at risk. We have seen and heard what families sacrifice in order to attend Catholic high school. We just hope to make it a little easier.” In trying to lessen the burden for future Nazareth families, Steve hopes “another family can have the opportunity to enjoy the experience that we had at Nazareth.”

Certainly, the decision to give back to Nazareth in the form of a Named Scholarship has pleased Matt, Crew and John. “My parents have always stressed the importance of education and it is nice that they can share that opportunity with others,” says John.

“ Nazareth’s donors provide endless opportunities for all members of our community. Nazareth is more than just an education or social environment.

It is a creator of unforgettable memories and a foundation for my future. Nazareth is a representation of sacrifice and love. My parents made the sacrifice to pay for my Catholic education because they knew how well Nazareth would help me develop. Financial donors express their love toward Nazareth and its students by funding scholarships for those who deserve them.”

“ The opportunities I have had and will have as a result of my education at Nazareth would not be possible without Nazareth’s generous donors.

As I head toward the next chapter of my life, I will take a piece of Nazareth with me. I will also take a piece of your generosity with me, knowing that without you, the past four years would not have been the same. You have left an enormous mark on my life in allowing me to be a part of the Nazareth family, so again, thank you, because your gifts to us all reach far beyond monetary limits.”

JOSEPH TRELENBERG ’18

KATHERINE CULLINAN ’16

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NAZ BY THE

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Continuing to open doors of opportunity, Nazareth alumni and supporters give back to offer Nazareth students financial aid in the form of 36 Named Scholarships

Naz Football wins its second consecutive State Title, this time in IHSA Class 5A

$192,000

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Nazareth’s 42nd annual WALK raised $192K thanks to the generosity of the Nazareth Family

Nazareth inducted 7 new members into the Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2016. Congratulations to Joseph Green ’82, Erin Ryan Mogensen ’94, Emily Hagen Cribben ’06, Ellen Stewart ’06, Steven DalPorto ’09, Ernie Cairo and Glenn Pacek

Nazareth hosted a 7th Grade Retreat for 233 students from local Catholic schools in January 2016

In its inaugural year, Nazareth’s BOOST Program will offer 16 summer internships with 11 area businesses, giving rising seniors knowledge and practice in a host of skills from marketing to physics

5A

7

233

14

As of March 2016, 14 student-athletes from the Class of 2016 have committed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the college level, including acceptance to several Division I programs

The Class of 2016 boasts 44 Illinois State Scholars

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Blueprint SPRING 2016

NAZARETH ACADEMY 1209 W. Ogden Avenue La Grange Park, Illinois 60526 www.nazarethacademy.com

Share your #NazPride worldwide

#NazPride

We know Roadrunners of all ages will be roaming worldwide this summer and we’re sure you’ll be packing your Naz blue. Please share photos where your #NazPride is on display. Send your captured moments on social media using the #NazPride hashtag or email amurguia@nazarethacademy.com.

We’ll share the photos on Naz’s social media outlets. You never know, you might even end up in a future Blueprint.

www.nazarethacademy.com If you receive duplicate copies of Blueprint, please contact Alena Murguia at amurguia@nazarethacademy.com or 708.387.8536 with your current address. Thank you in advance for helping conserve our resources.

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