Traditions - Winter 2019-2020 (Volume 32 Number 1)

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TRADITIONS

Winter 2019-2020 // Volume 32 Number 1

Cretin-Derham Hall

Co-sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and the Brothers of the Christian Schools

Stories of Inspiration Blessed Brother James Miller, FSC — An Ordinary Man of Extraordinary Faith


BLESSED BROTHER JAMES MILLER, FSC Student • 1960-1961 • Cretin High School Teacher • 1966-1971; 1979-1980 • Cretin High School Martyred • February 13, 1982 • Huehuetenango, Guatemala Beatified • December 7, 2019

“I pray to God for the grace and strength to serve Him faithfully by my presence among the poor and oppressed of Guatemala. I place my life in His providence; I place my trust in Him.” — BROTHER JAMES MILLER 2

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CONTENTS INCLUDES STORIES: 6 // Blessed Brother James Miller 8 // Casey O'Brien ’17 9 // Heidi Stefanyshyn-Piper ’80 10 // Louie McGee ’19 11 // Irene O'Neill, CSJ ’72 12 // What Inspires You? 41 // Chaplain: Inspiration's Not the Goal

5 // INSPIRATION Stories that Awaken the Possibilities

alumni profiles

faculty focus Events & Alumni Awards

26 // F rom West 7th to Producer of World Class Events

20 // D edicated to Health and Wellness in Our Students 32 // Cretin-Derham Hall Gala 33 // RaiderRama 2020

in each issue

34 // Cretin Alumni Banquet 35 // C ommunity Dinner and Awards 28 // S elling a Future Rooted in Tradition

36 // C ommunity Award Recipient Profiles 4 // From the President 14 // Purple Pride 22 // Advancing Our Mission 41 // Chaplain’s Letter

30 // C onstructing a Special Place for Community

On the cover // This official portrait of Blessed Brother James Miller, FSC, was painted by one of his former students and unveiled at the Beatification Mass in Guatemala (December 2019).

42 // Alumni Class Notes 45 // In Memoriam 45 // CDH Events / Calendar Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020

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// FROM THE PRESIDENT

Who inspires you?

“We often take for granted that we work and learn alongside beautiful examples of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”

The rich history, tradition, and spirituality of Cretin-Derham Hall and especially our Founders, give us countless examples of men and women who in large, and small ways have lead lives that inspire those around them. For a remarkable 161 years, Cretin, Derham Hall, and now Cretin-Derham Hall, has been a home to inspirational teachers who grace our classrooms and walk among us as guides on our journey. As Christians we believe this journey ends in eternal life so this is no small feat. On December 7, 2019, one of our former teachers was beatified. (Beatification is the third of four formal steps in the canonization process of the Catholic Church — see page 25.) I was fortunate to make the pilgrimage to Huehuetenango, Guatemala for the Beatification Mass of Blessed Brother James Miller, FSC with CDH teachers Peter Gleich, Joe Miley ’11 and Lou Anne Tighe. It was a beautiful celebration of an ordinary man who didn’t seek to inspire, but he changed lives one small effort at a time. We can all benefit from the lessons of his life’s work. Brother James was a student and teacher at Cretin High School. He taught Spanish, founded our boys’ soccer program and was affectionately known as Brother Fix-it due to his passionate interest in our campus. He spent countless hours tending to things that needed repair around the campus. Brother James was inspired by serving the young, especially the poor in Central America. He expressed his love for the poor by his tireless commitment to their education and well-being in both Nicaragua and Guatemala. He was martyred on February 13, 1982, when he was slain by three masked gunman while repairing a wall at Colegio De La Salle in Huehuetenango, Guatemala. He was repairing the wall in an attempt to keep his students safe. He lived up to his nickname Brother Fix-it to the very end. Frankly, those who knew Brother James would not have predicted that he would be a candidate for sainthood. They tell us that you knew when James walked in because his personality filled the room. He loved manual labor and was totally committed to his students. They also tell us that he had a tendency to miss communal prayer and Mass due to preoccupation with other duties. He was simply an ordinary man who lived his life for others in an extraordinary way. He is not alone. Among our 150 faculty and staff and 1000 students, we have ample examples of inspiration. I am impressed daily with the dedication of our teachers, who like Brother James, work tirelessly on behalf of their students. Likewise, I am impressed by our students, many of whom overcome great obstacles to achieve great things. We often take for granted that we work and learn alongside beautiful examples of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. What a blessing it is for me to come to work each day at Cretin-Derham Hall where I find so much inspiration from within our community as we work diligently, often in small ordinary ways, for the greater good. I sincerely hope you, too, will be inspired by those highlighted in this issue of Traditions. Francis M. Miley, J.D. Cretin-Derham Hall President

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INSPIRATION “In a culture obsessed with measuring talent and ability, we often overlook

the important role of inspiration. Inspiration awakens us to new possibilities by allowing us to transcend our ordinary experiences and limitations. Inspiration propels a person from apathy to possibility, and transforms the way we perceive our own capabilities. Inspiration may sometimes be overlooked because of its elusive nature.”

—W hy Inspiration Matters by Scott Barry Kauffman

Every single day, moments of great inspiration happen. As a school, many of our seemingly ordinary moments might well be summed up by Robert Louis Stevensen who once said, “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant.” Seeds are planted by our families around the dinner table, by our own reflective moments in quiet prayer, and by our teachers during a spirited discussion in a classroom…just to name a few. Each of us could probably tell a story of someone, somewhere, some way that awakened the possibility of our own potential. Perhaps you have, in your own way, nurtured someone else’s growth. Within our community, we find endless stories of people who help us nurture the seeds of possibility and growth in our own lives. On the following pages, enjoy some of these stories. — Continued on next page

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Doing What God Wanted Him to Do How Brother James inspires me By Joe Miley ’11, Learning Specialist

Brother James (Santiago) Miller was beatified in Huehuetenango, Guatemala on December 7, in a Mass attended by more than 5,000 people. A contingent from Cretin-Derham Hall, including President Frank Miley, campus ministers/teachers Lou Anne Tighe, Peter Gleich, and Joe Miley ’11 were honored to be in attendance at the beatification. Joe Miley ’11 shared this experience in his own words.

As I returned from the Beatification of Brother James Miller in December, I found it difficult to describe how I felt. As a student at Cretin-Derham Hall and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, I often heard the word, “vocation.” I was encouraged to listen for what I was called to do, but honestly, I didn’t really take the time to understand what that meant. Eventually, as a student in the Lasallian Teacher Immersion Program, I encountered many Christian Brothers, Lasallian partners, and others who live, work, and serve with faith and passion. I witnessed Brothers who took in court-adjudicated youth and gave them another chance. I saw Lasallians provide educational opportunities for kids living in extreme poverty and violence and help young students experience God in their everyday lives. This gave me a new perspective and helped me discover what living out God’s call might look like. Eventually, it led to my own vocation in Lasallian education. Brother James Miller lived out his vocation in an incredibly inspiring manner. While teaching at Cretin High School in the late 1960s, Brother James felt called to serve the poor and oppressed in Central America until he was ordered to leave by his religious superiors because of rising political tension. After returning to Cretin, he longed to return to Central America and was soon assigned to Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Brother James had an unwavering faith in God that led him to go into the unknown to serve a population on the margins. By putting his faith in action, he did as Jesus taught us. While in Guatemala, James witnessed firsthand the violence and persecution of the Catholic Church because of its work for the poor and oppressed. Archbishop John Roach once said that Brother James “took young people from the hills that had no chance and gave them a combination of hope and life.” With a zealous

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belief that he was doing what God wanted him to do, James gave his life for these people. When Pope Francis recognized Brother James’ martyrdom in 2018, I found myself thinking more about his life. My interest in Brother James’ story picked up when I was invited to attend the recent Beatification Mass. Our group from CDH traveled with several Christian Brothers from Saint Mary’s, two of whom were James’ classmates (Brother Francis Carr and Brother Stephen Markham) and one who was taught by James (Brother Pat Conway ’71). They shared memories of James as a young


“...Brother James 'took young people from the hills that had no chance and gave them a combination of hope and life.’ ” — ARCHBISHOP JOHN ROACH

Once a Raider, On Path to Sainthood A sense of awe certainly exists as the CDH community reflects on the fact Blessed Brother James Miller, FSC, both a student and a teacher at Cretin High School, is now beatified. His is a humble story, but one that is uniquely relatable and inspiring to our community. His appeal and his authenticity was perhaps best described by a Brother who was his Director at Cretin High School, who recalled him as “an intelligent person, although not an intellectual, jovial, easy to relate with, preferring physical work to sports, with a deep faith and love for his religious vocation, but with a certain tendency to come late to class and community prayers.” After his religious profession, he came back to Cretin in the late 1960s, taught Spanish, supervised campus maintenance, and started the boys’ soccer program. Later, after spending years teaching in Nicaragua, he returned to Cretin to again teach Spanish. In 1980, he requested to teach at the Brothers’ mission in Guatemala. Blessed Brother James’ work (and the ministry of the Christian Brothers) with young men in Huehuetenango created tension with the Guatemalan government. The Brothers’ commitment to keeping the boys in school rather than the military as authorities wanted led to his killing at the age of 37, while he was repairing an outside wall of the Boys’ School. “It is not lost on our faculty/staff and students, as well as many alumni who knew him, that this man walked our very halls and was an important part of our community and our history, and thus, has become a very real and relevant source of inspiration to us,” noted President Frank Miley. “We are blessed to learn from his life's work.”

Brother, as a teacher, and most importantly, as a human. I think one of the most surreal things about James’ beatification was hearing about how, at his core, he was not much different than those who surround me each day. While traveling to Huehuetenango, we rode a bus with 20 Brothers who shared stories of James spending hours and hours mentoring his students. We heard about the Guatemalan Civil War and his fierce protection of his students. We also heard from a Brother who was with James the night before his death. We heard about the Beatification process, including the exhumation of his grave to look for relics, and how his body, 37 years after his death, was almost unchanged. The Mass itself was a huge celebration showing the impact James had on the communities he touched. The procession of the relics and the unveiling of a portrait done by one of Brother James’ former students were especially emotional moments for those whose lives he impacted. Brother James listened to God’s call and had the courage to live it out, giving his students a true sense of hope and life. St. John Baptist de La Salle, founder of the Christian Brothers, once wrote, “Your zeal must go so far that in order to achieve it, you are ready to give your very life, so dear are the children entrusted to you.” Attending the Beatification of a Catholic martyr who once walked the very same hallways that I do each day changed me. Brother James’ life is a reminder to listen to God’s call and commit to action. His life convinces me that we can do more with the help of God’s grace than we can ever imagine.

Blessed Brother James Miller – (TOP) Cretinite Year Book, 1961; (ABOVE) Cretinite Year Book, 1967.

INSPIRATION INSPIRA TION Frank Miley, Peter Gleich, Joe Miley ’11, and Lou Anne Tighe, represented CDH at the Beatification in Guatemala this past December.

For more information on the Steps to Sainthood, see page 25.

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Casey O’Brien ’17, a proud member of the Golden Gopher football team, played in his first collegiate game in October, 2019.

Inspired by Faith and Friendships, Casey O’Brien ’17 Doesn’t Back Down from Cancer Editorial Note: The following is an excerpt from a speech given by Casey O’Brien ’17 to the Cretin Banquet in September, 2019. I began high school in the fall of 2013 and became the starting quarterback for the 9th grade A team. I was well on my way to my goal of playing varsity football when my life changed forever. I was about halfway through my freshman season when my left knee started to hurt. My parents and I went to every doctor we could find, but no one could figure out what was wrong. It got to the point where I was walking around on crutches to keep weight off it during the school day just so that I could practice. This was when we knew we needed to get an answer. On December 14, 2013, we went in to get an MRI. By noon, I was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, an extremely rare form of bone cancer. I was just 13 years old. I had no idea what this meant, but I knew it wasn’t good. My first question was, “When can I skate again? I’m missing hockey season.” The doctor looked at me and said, “Right now, we are just trying to save your leg.” I will never forget the outpouring of support from my fellow classmates at Cretin-Derham Hall. I was sitting in my hospital room, just two days before Christmas, going through my first round of chemotherapy when I got a text from one of the seniors at school. “Check your email,” he said. I immediately went to my email and saw a video of all 1,200 students singing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” I am not a crier, but I sobbed after seeing how much the other students (many of whom did not know me) cared about me. It was optional to attend, but every single student showed up. That is one reason why this school is so special. The doctors had asked me what my plan was moving forward with school, seeing as I was going to be in the hospital for six days at a time to receive chemo. “Most kids will take a year off and come back when they are ready,” they told me. 8

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“So I just quit school and my friends go on without me?” I wanted no part in that. With the help of my advisor Mike Brewer, the amazing Dr. Janet Watson, and too many other teachers and staff to count, I was able to FaceTime into every class while sitting in the hospital. I even worked my way onto the Honor Roll. My favorite part of the day would be when a teacher would leave the room and one of my buddies would jump into the camera and make me laugh. It always seemed to come at the right time. When I was out of the hospital, I was supposed to lay in bed to rest and recover. I chose to go to school and attend class for the full school day. I was just a freshman but felt like I was a celebrity because everyone wanted to talk to me and see me. There were always arguments on who got to push me in my wheelchair to the next class. I got to decide, and the senior girls always won. There were many highs and many lows throughout all this, but there were two things that CDH gave me that stayed consistent. First was my faith. Coming into high school, I went to church on Sunday, but that was only because my parents made me. After being diagnosed with cancer, Father Forliti ’54 was one of the first people to call me. From there, we created a friendship that I will take with me the rest of my life. He has taught me to lean on God in the good times and the bad, and more importantly to trust in the plan God has given me. Classwork and Mass at CDH allowed me to expand on this part of my life, and my faith has now become is extremely important to me. I am now in college and I do not miss a Sunday. I think God has chosen me to be His Cancer Warrior. The next thing CDH gave me is friendships. I was lucky enough to meet a group of buddies that mean the absolute world to me. This same group of boys were sitting next to my bed as I went through my first round of chemotherapy, shaved their heads when I lost my hair, brought my books down to the hospital and helped with homework, gave up their Friday nights to play video games when I was sick, had my back when my cancer relapsed, believed in me when I said I was going to play football for CDH while fighting cancer, almost got thrown out of the stadium when I made my first career start (won’t forget that one), and most of all, have never treated me like I had cancer. It has never been brought up once. All in all, I would not trade my four years at CretinDerham Hall for anything. As I look back, now lucky enough to play college football at the University of Minnesota, I am extremely proud of where I went to high school. There are so many amazing people who took care of me, and continue to be a part of my story. The faith and the friendships that I developed during my time at CDH are two of the most important pieces of my life. This school and this community will always hold a very special place in my heart.

INSPIRATI Casey O’Brien ’17, cancer survivor, was the featured story for ESPN’s College Game Day and The Today Show in 2019. He was also named Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week, Oct. 21, 2019.


Heide Stefanyshyn-Piper ’80 Landed Among the Stars There’s that old cliche — “Reach for the moon; even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” Heide Stefanyshyn-Piper ’80 once had big dreams of being a fighter pilot, but she missed. Instead, she landed quite literally among the stars. Stefanyshyn-Piper’s path to NASA began in ninth grade at Derham Hall, when she was given the opportunity to self-study Algebra I and Geometry math courses, which put her on track for accelerated Calculus courses in college. When she was accepted to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), she realized that she would struggle to pay the tuition. She applied for and received a Naval ROTC scholarship to finance her mechanical engineering degree. After her freshman year at MIT, her goal was to become a Navy pilot. However, she failed the eye test, which led her to Navy Dive School and doing ship repairs underwater instead. That twist of fate served her well when she applied for NASA. While her application was rejected the first time, as most are, the second time around she was able to explain how relevant her diving experience was to the work astronauts do in zero gravity. Stefanyshyn-Piper went to space twice, in 2006 and 2008, which gave her a fresh perspective on Earth’s beauty. “When you’re up there, you can see the curvature of the Earth, and you can see that beyond the thin layer of atmosphere, everything is just black. It really brings into focus that this planet is all we have,” she reflected. “I know how much it takes to get just six humans into space, so the chances of a sci-fi future where all of humanity blasts off, I don’t think that’s going to happen. We need to take care of what we have.” Since her retirement from the U.S. Navy in 2015, Stefanyshyn-Piper has spent her time mentoring, and speaking in schools and volunteering with Soroptimist International of Oak Harbor, focusing on girls. “If I can convince just one student to stay in school, to study something they wouldn’t have, to try a little harder, that’s worth it,” she said. An engineer through-and-through, Stefanyshyn-Piper still shares a sense of wonder at the universe. “As much as you can use science to explain why and how things work, you always come back to the beginning,” she said. “That’s where faith and God comes in. You can explain everything — up to a certain point.”

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Heidi Stefanyshyn-Piper ’80 became a NASA astronaut, and visited space in both 2006 and 2008.

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Louie McGee ’19 is Neither “Helpless, Nor a Hero” Louie McGee ’19 was running in suburban St. Paul with a group of fellow Ironmen-in-training when they kept warning him of a pineapple in the trail. He figured it was a good-natured joke. Then, he tripped over a pineapple. McGee was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a degenerative eye condition, when he was five years old. Nowadays, his lack of vision prevents him from doing things like seeing stray pineapples in his path, but not much else. In fact, he has used it as a driving force to achieve bigger and bigger goals. “I don’t know that I could have run the Ironman if I wasn’t blind,” he said. “There’s no way I could have run that many miles that many times and gone through that much pain without a good reason for it. I wanted to inspire people to reach beyond their limitations, and knowing that helped me push through.” In many ways, Louie’s high school experience was the same as any CDH student’s. He participated in sports, performed in the school musical, and made friends for life. For parents of other blind children, that alone has been an inspiration. “A dad once told me that he couldn’t sleep at night after his daughter was diagnosed because he was so worried about her, and then he found my videos,” McGee said. “He said I got him through the first couple of nights.” As a sophomore, McGee founded a nonprofit, Louie’s Vision, to help other blind kids understand the resources available to them and live life to the fullest. He hosts events, provides mentoring, and does public speaking on overcoming obstacles and disability awareness. His goal is to help people see life as an adventure, and develop the skills they need to pursue their dreams. Milan Tomaska, a ten-time Ironman, helped McGee train and was his guide through the race. “When we started, he was absolutely not a runner,” Tomaska said. “But I never had a doubt in my mind he would get there, because he’s so determined. He has a million plans for how he wants to make a difference, and I’m confident he can do it.” McGee wants to be admired for the things he has accomplished, not for accomplishing them without vision. “I don’t need to be a hero, and I’m definitely not helpless. I’m just blind.”

Louie McGee ’19, legally blind due to Stargardt disease, completed the Iron Man in 2018 and then became the youngest TEDx speaker in Minneapolis in 2019.

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In August, McGee became the youngest person ever to present at TEDxMinneapolis. His speech, about “turning disability into possibility,” reflected on his accomplishments and goals for the future, and how we can all reach for our dreams. Watch This Blind Ironman Turns Disability into Possibility at tiny.cc/louiemcgee

INSPIRA


LEFT: As a regent of Bethlehem University in Palestine, Sister Irene met with Pope Francis. BELOW: Sister Irene is in Apoppa, El Salvador, launching The Color Movement by helping paint a mural at a Youth Center in the middle of gang territory run by Sisters of the Guardian Angels.

Irene O’Neill, CSJ ’72 Connects Nuns to Solve World-Wide Problems It takes a remarkable person to see a problem and commit board to help her create a platform that would be accessible themselves to understanding the root cause and eradicating it. worldwide. The vision? A comprehensive website where sisters However, that wasn’t enough for Irene O’Neill, CSJ ’72. Instead, can enter information about their communities and their projects, she has decided to commit herself to eradicating root causes and request expertise, funding, or other assistance. The Sisters’ around the world through Sisters Rising Worldwide. platform, The Peace Room, will be private. The public website, As a Sister, O’Neill has seen remarkable projects making sistersrisingworldwide.org, is where laypeople can see Sisters’ work and donate. a real difference. “There are 700,000 nuns around the world. We’re throwing “I joined [the Sisters] because I saw a crowd of women who in our whole lives to this work,” she said. “Would another were not afraid of hard questions. When they saw a problem in 700,000 people be willing to throw in $5 per month, a latte society, they would ask, ‘What caused this? How can we solve per month? At that level, we believe we could fund a hundred this?’ And then they would do it,” she said. “I was a novice when percent of the requests coming in, and eradicate the root Hope House was starting, and Incarnation House, and the Free problems which is much cheaper than treating the symptoms.” Store, and Ascension Place. You could see the impact that it was having on the Twin Cities, and it was all for the good of people, helping them flourish.” O’Neill spent twenty years as the Executive Director of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet WHAT INSPIRES YOU? Ministries Foundation, work that took her around the world to meet with Sisters doing the hard “I am inspired by the diversity of gifts and talents on the planet. Sometimes, work on the ground. Everywhere she went, she when I’m driving and it’s early and dark out, I see people delivering the papers found that Sisters understood exactly what was and the coffee shop lights coming on and the trucks driving around, and I think harming their communities, and had a clear idea about how everybody has an important part; it’s unbelievable. I get inspired of to solve it. However, they rarely had access to when the system works. Everyone has something important to offer towards the resources. Most people had no idea of building a caring community. When we look after each other, we find joy.” the work these women were doing. — IRENE O'NEILL, CSJ ’72 So, O’Neill saw an opportunity. Connect the nuns — not just the Sisters of St. Joseph, but nuns from every order — to each other, and make their work visible. She has spent the past four years pitching her vision, finding web developers and funders, and building a global

ATION

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What inspires you? Traditions asked members of our community one simple but, admittedly complex question: What Inspires You? We recognize that this is a tough question and appreciate the thoughtful responses. Because they were willing to share their thoughts with us, we are all inspired.

"I am always inspired by the human story: great books, interesting interviews, lyrics of songs, movies or pieces of art. That's probably why I enjoyed studying liberal arts and teaching social studies and religion. My favorite stories, though, are those I learn from the people I meet and interact with on a daily basis." MONA PASSMAN PRINCIPAL

ed to r i p s n i m Ia can I o s p u des a r g y m t ge ege.” l l o c d o o g get into a ‘22 OWNES COLIN D ERHAM HALL -D CRETIN

"I'm insp ired by students who are enthusiastic about learning. I'm insp ired by my family, friends and co-workers. They insp ire me to become a better version of myself. I'm insp ired by genuine smiles and posit ive energy." LOURDES WADELL WORLD LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

“One of my main motivators and most powerful inspirations is the concept of legacy! I attempt to look at everything I do personally and professionally as something that is going to help build my family's legacy and name if done well and to the best of my ability. The thought of generational influence within my family, community and CDH drives me to work harder, be better and compete as hard as I can to make sure the legacy I'm leaving is a positive and powerful one.” PHIL ARCHER ’99 ATHLETIC DIRECTOR, CDH

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I have had the experience, numerous times, of sitting late at night and observing the stars in the heavens. I’m inspired not only by their sparkling light and the beauty they provide overhead, but also by the understanding that I am one with them. The very stuff of the universe, its physical matter, is not only what makes up the stars but also is the very stuff of mother earth and of each one of us. We are stardust.

“I am mos t in sp ired by fr ie n ds I k n ow w ho are po si ti ve an d af fir m ing. Whe n I ge t th e urge to be sn ar k y, I tr y to st op m ys el f an d as k "Wh at wou ld m y op ti m is tic fr ie n ds do?" Th en I tr y to ch an ne l m y re ac ti on s or re sp on se s to em ph as ize th e go od in th e si tu at io n . I've le ar ne d th at it ta k es a lo t more energy to re ac t ne gati ve ly, an d a lo t more energy to be mea n . I lo ok to th e in sp irat io n of fr ie n ds to tr y to re m ai n po si ti ve , op ti m is tic an d affir m ing.”

This understanding helps me know that the unity of the universe is manifest in magnificent diversity. Our God loves variety in all forms but holds us together in love — that is who God is according to Saint John. We are many but we are also one. This inspires me.

BETSY KEYES ‘74 RETIRED AT TORN EY

I am extraordinarily inspired by this generation of young people who give personal time toward contributing to the common good. They offer presence and service oneto-one, for example, with elders struggling with phones or iPads, visiting with homeless men, or working with children. They also add their presence and action to movements for change such as the Catholic Climate Movement, get-out-the-vote or Peace Corps.

BROTHER MICHAEL FEHRENBACH, FSC VISITOR, CHRISTIAN BROTHERS OF THE MIDWEST

“I'm inspired by exploring and traveling — I want to learn as much as I can about the world.”

Young people are our witnesses to what is happening for the common good!” CATHY STEFFENS, CSJ LEADERSHIP TEAM SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF CARONDELET

CHI LAN NGO ‘20 CRETIN-DERHAM HALL

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// PURPLE PRIDE “This is where CDH will gather — to welcome, to work together, to form bonds and to celebrate the best of our community. This new, multi-functional, and yes, beautiful space has been needed, and much anticipated for years.” — FRANK MILEY, CDH PRESIDENT

LENTCH FORUM FEELS LIKE HOME Come on in and stay awhile! The Tom and Debbie Lentsch Forum opened its doors to faculty and staff as school resumed after Christmas break. Designed by Ben Beery ’03, of Wold Architects and Engineers (see page 30), the Lentsch Forum will serve as a welcoming lobby and living room of our school. “This new space offers our community so much more than a new main entrance,” explained Frank Miley, President. “This is where CDH will gather — to welcome, to work together, to form bonds and to celebrate the best of our community. This new, multi-functional, and yes, beautiful space has been needed, and much anticipated, for years.”

The Space As you walk in the new doors, visitors will be greeted at the new check-in desk and enter the lobby that features easy access to the main school hallway as well as the second level where the Griep Family Gymnasium and the Chapel are located. To the left, visitors will see the new Raider Rack (school store) and the welcoming gathering space some are calling the ‘living room’ of our school. This space is anchored by a fireplace and includes modular soft seating and tables, and a grand piano. Stained glass windows hang on each side of the fireplace, honoring our founders: St. John Baptist DeLaSalle (Christian Brothers) and St. Joseph (Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet.) There is also framed artwork of Our Lady of Guadalupe and a new crucifix that graces this space. This space serves as the walk-through to the Joe Mauer Field House and provides handicap accessibility via the elevators located near the stairwell to the field house. It is also an entry to the Woulfe Activity Center. The Forum features two flat screens televisions for displays, a A/V projection system, wireless microphones system, and good acoustics. 14 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org

Student and Faculty Reaction “The students walked in on that Monday morning in January and immediately loved the space,” noted Mona Passman, Principal. “They started gathering there right away.” It will also be a place where students can ‘hang out’ before and after classes, which is conducive to both small and large groups, as well as accessible for parking or pick-up. On that January morning, Kedues Samuel ’20, was immediately drawn to the piano and sat down to play for his friends during his lunch period when the students’ were invited to come look at the space. “It is a great space to have for students and it creates a welcoming environment for everyone,” he said. The space can also be utilized during class time. Ninth grade Values teacher Jesse Cusick ’98 brought his class to the space as they prepared and performed scenes from the Greek play, Antigone. “The new Lentsch Forum is a warm, bright, spacious place to work with students and practice theater next to the fire,” he said.

Made Possible by the Lentschs The new space is named for Tom ’68 and Debbie Lentsch who provided the philanthropic leadership for the construction project. As owner/operators of Unifed Screening and Crushing, they have generously supported Catholic education and specifically the mission of Cretin-Derham Hall for over 50 years. “With great pride, we have named this space for Tom and Debbie because, like them, this space will provide life-changing opportunities for our students, now and into the future,” explained Frank Miley, President.


// PURPLE PRIDE

FUN FACTS! Director of Facilities, Paul Solmon shared some Fun Facts about the construction of the new space! n

T he new Lentsch Forum is a nearly 6,400 square feet space, replacing the old Activities entrance and “yellow brick road" to the field house which was about 3,400 square feet.

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N o parking was sacrificed with the new addition.

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The embedded logo in the terrazzo floor has a diameter of 12 ft.

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T he new check-in office at the main entrance was built with new security enhancements as part of the comprehensive campus security plan.

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O ver 1,100 Dilly Bars were donated by Brian Nalipinski ’96, owner of the Morris, MN Dairy Queen, as a treat for students as they were welcomed into the new space on the first day of school in 2020.

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T he Raider Rack re-opened in a much more prominent and accessible space after being closed for construction since last spring.

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The exterior brick pattern on the new tower matches the brick pattern on the Hamline tower — complementing and coordinating the architecture of the original buildings on campus.

Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Our community gathered on January 21 for the Official Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting. Many parents and alumni stopped by to enjoy the new space. After the blessing offered by representative of our founders, Sr. Cathy Steffens, CSJ and Brother Francis Carr, FSC, Tom Lentsch reflected on the sense of family at CDH that has carried him both professionally and personally. He offered these words: Our company, Unified Screening & Crushing, celebrated 150 years this year. When Debbie and I talk about what has made our company successful over the past century and a half, we have remarked that Unified has had more than five generations of ownership as a family company. Even though we have 14 facilities and employees across the country, we still operate with the closeness of a family business. When I think about the success of Cretin-Derham Hall, I think about that sense of family. For many students, Cretin-Derham Hall is like a home away from home. With as much time as students spend on campus today, it is important to develop that sense of feeling at home. It’s when we feel that we belong that we really open ourselves up to the possibility of achieving “more,” better grades, athletic accomplishments, connected relationships, and an overall deeper high school experience. It has been a long time since I walked these halls as a student, 52 years to be exact. I feel forever tied to this institution. As a past board member and Bishop Cretin Honoree, Debbie and I hope all the students and families past, present and future will share the same sense of pride Tom Lentsch ’68 CEO, Unified Screening & Crushing

M any significant design elements of the new space were relocated from other areas of the campus, making them more visible and more usable. — The framed artwork featuring Our Lady of Guadalupe was relocated from Whaley Hall. n

— The grand piano was moved from the chapel. — S noopy was relocated from the bottom of the ‘yellow brick road’ into the Joe Mauer Field House where it was only visible to those walking into the field house. Now it is located on the balcony that overlooks the entrance to the field house but is visible from within the forum, and even the parking lot! —3 finials from 1929 building were reused on the exterior of the new building. n

T he crucifix was purchased from an antiques website — it was hand carved in the 1920s and will bless this space with a piece from the era that this campus was first built.

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T wo elevators replace the one that previously only accessed the Griep Family gymnasium level, making the two levels handicap accessible and convenient. While accessibility complied legally before, it was quite cumbersome to access all areas.

SEE PAGES 16-17 FOR IMAGES OF THE LENTCH FORUM

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 15


// PURPLE PRIDE

The Lentsch Forum is a welcoming space for students, faculty and visitors. As the main entrance, the space features plenty of small group seating, a beautiful fireplace and a grand piano, and more accessible and convenient access to the school and the field house. 16 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org


// PURPLE PRIDE

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 17


// PURPLE PRIDE

Justice Week Focused on Wellness for Ourselves and Others CDH celebrated our annual Justice Week early in February, organized by the Service Committee of the Student Council. This year’s theme was Wellness. Students spent the week reflecting on wellness and looking for opportunities to take better care of themselves and the world around them. Monday’s focus was “Just Show Up,” a reminder that one of the most valuable things we can do is be present for others. On Tuesday, David Flood visited to speak with students. David is a motivational speaker who focuses on dignity, respect, and compassion. The students chose him due to his mix of humor and real-life experiences, and his message of approaching others with respect and kindness. Students also had the opportunity to choose and participate in a Wellness Activity. Options included yoga, animal therapy, puzzles, rosary, open gym, and many more, giving everyone an opportunity to choose the activity that would most benefit them. Wednesday was the 18th annual Empty Bowls, an initiative that was created by CDH students and has become a beloved tradition. The Empty Bowls team served a simple meal of soup and bread for both lunch and dinner, with proceeds donated to Heifer International. Approximately 1,200 people attended.

“I hope my peers gained more awareness of how they should take time for themselves to de-stress.” Learning that skill will become very useful and have a positive impact on their mental health in the long term.” — ALLISON SMITH ’20 “This student-created and student-led project is an inspiration to other students to start something at CDH, leave a legacy, and know that it is possible their impact will be continued many years after they leave CDH,” said Anamaria Cullen ’20, who was part of the Empty Bowls Leadership Team. The evening portion of the event also featured a silent auction and performances by the band and choir. This was the third year that Ellie Murphy ’20 has been on the leadership team. “The feeling of success that I have gotten every year at the [Empty Bowls] event is unlike any other,” she said. “This feeling proves that all the work we do throughout the school year is worth it and will benefit a great cause.” Students were also asked to make an effort to do something kind for someone else. On Thursday, students reflected on the importance of their family and friends, and on Friday they were asked to reach out to two teachers or staff members who have made a positive impact on their life and thank them. Allison Smith ’20 was on the organizing committee for Justice Week. “I hope my peers gained more awareness of how they should take time for themselves to de-stress,” she said. Learning that skill will become very useful and have a positive impact on their mental health in the long term.” 18 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org


// PURPLE PRIDE

CDH Director of Campus Ministry Named Distinguished Lasallian Educator

5-year Strategic Plan is Slated to be Finalized this Spring

Director of Campus Ministry Lou Anne Tighe was recognized as a Distinguished Lasallian Educator in November. This award is given to educators who are noteworthy in their sustained devotion to the Lasallian educational mission. Tighe was nominated by President Frank Miley. “Through her work at Cretin-Derham Hall, she brings the history and traditions of the LaSallian Lou Anne Tighe, Director of Campus values to students and so many Ministry, was honored at the others. She is an advocate November, 2019 Huether Conference for the embodiment of the by Dr. Scott Kier, Superintendent of LaSallian Education. LaSallian values in the CDH community and is passionate about the value of the LaSallian spirit in our mission,” he said. Tighe, a LaSallian educator for over three decades, embodies the LaSallian virtues and has a profound respect for and appreciation of LaSallian tradition, history and spirituality. In her ministry at CretinDerham Hall, she has become a leader in LaSallian formation, offering numerous formation opportunities for faculty/staff, parents, and the Board of Directors in addition to students. Tighe’s research on the life of Blessed Brother James Miller was instrumental in the development of the Christian Brothers’ formal documents supporting his beatification.

The CDH Strategic Plan will be finalized soon. After several Listening Sessions in January that presented the draft of the plan to students, parents, alumni, and staff, the plan will be presented to the Board of Directors for approval at a spring meeting. The recent Listening Sessions were designed to update the broader community through a review of the year-long process which involved input from literally hundreds of our community members. The goals of the plan were drafted by representatives of all constituencies at a Strategic Planning Weekend Retreat in October after the hard work of exploration and analysis was provided by eight domain committees (Academics/Technology, Catholic Identity, Student Life, Governance, Enrollment/ Marketing, Advancement, Finance, Facilities/Technology). The domains were lead by volunteers and included work by staff, administration, faculty/staff, parents, and alumni. Principal Mona Passman noted, “I am proud to be part of a community that is always looking for ways to improve, and I look forward to the positive impact these updates will make on the CDH community!” The final five-year plan will be shared again after the Board of Director’s approval. President Frank Miley has felt the energy and enthusiasm for our school throughout this process. He also looks forward to implementing a very forwardthinking and mission-driven strategic plan and believes the best is yet to come. “We appreciate the prayers of support, as well as the enormous amount of time and effort by our community leaders on behalf of our school,” said Miley. “The love of this school and the ongoing support of our mission to provide a truly excellent education that is accessible to all is proudly reflected in this plan for continued improvement.”

CDH Announces New Schedule Cretin-Derham Hall will debut a new schedule starting in 2020–2021. Students will continue to take seven classes each trimester and the graduation requirements will not change, but the school day will change in several ways. • The school day will start at 8:15 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m. • There will be a consistent three-day rotating class schedule, with each 60-minute class held two out of every three days. • There will be a new 75-minute “Flex Time” for lunch, academic support, study time, and other activities. • "Community Time" will also be incorporated, allowing for Mass, CASA, assemblies and other important gatherings. • There will not be a need for shortened class times to accommodate special schedules. “Our primary goal is to preserve our academic excellence while providing students with a healthy learning environment that’s relevant in our changing world,” explained Mona Passman, Principal. A committee of faculty and staff spent the last year and a half designing this new schedule. This effort incorporated abundant research and the analysis of several different schedules, interviews with other schools, and surveys of faculty, students, and parents. More information on the new schedule is available at c-dh.org/NewSchedule.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 19


// FACULTY FOCUS

Dedicated to Health and Wellness in Our Students Jodi Muetzel is a Physical Education and Health Teacher with 26 years of teaching experience, all at Cretin-Derham Hall. Her courses currently include Yoga, JROTC, Women’s Fitness, Health/Summer Health. She is the Department Chair and serves on the Instructional Leadership Team (ILT), tasked with supporting the faculty with implementation of best practices and new teacher mentorship. She also serves on the Wellness Committee. In addition, she has also coached softball and girls’ basketball.

Q

How did you end up in education? Growing up, I had a lot of good teachers and coaches but I also had some that were pretty negative. I thought that if I became a teacher or coach, I would want to be a positive influence in students' lives. I chose education because I wanted to teach, not just sport skills, but also life skills. I picked Physical Education and Health because I have always thought physical, mental/emotional, social and spiritual health are all so important in students’ lives.

Q

In your position, you work diligently to enhance our students’ sense of health and wellness. What do you think is important for schools to remember about our teenagers’ well-being? A big part of my job is helping students navigate through the ups and downs of life. Students have very busy lives with school, homework, work, and activities. At times, they don’t have a lot of down time. Students have a lot of pressure to be the best in everything they do, and they are afraid to fail. This could be a big reason for the increase in depression, anxiety and stress. I work with the students in their mental/emotional, social, physical and spiritual part of their lives. I try to give them the tools to improve in each area and help them if they face obstacles.

Q

What do you hope our students learn in their high school years that will positively impact their wellness throughout life? You do not have to be perfect. Always be good to yourself and take time for yourself, like exercise, meditate, and read. Stay active. Be confident and surround yourself with positive people. Find something you like to do in life and have fun. Don’t sweat the small stuff and learn to let stuff go.

Q

How has your faith inspired your teaching? I believe my faith has improved everything I do. In teaching Health, we can consider our spiritual health as important as our physical health. Faith often helps us find peace and balance in life so we should rely on faith (if we are comfortable) to help make sense of things happening in our life. I share my faith with my students because I know there have been plenty of things that happened in my life that I could not handle if I didn’t have my faith and personal relationship with God. The thing is, talking to God is the one thing that is non-judgmental, so no matter what the struggle, He is the help you can rely on. 20 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org

Q

You have been a coach for much of your career, either in the traditional world of sports or, more broadly, of students. What do you think makes a ‘good’ coach? Coaches have a big job and in high school, there are times of the year that the student spends more hours with the coach than his/her parents. Coaches need to build relationships and keep open lines of communication with the student-athlete. The coache’s job is to help build confidence and self-esteem. And, of course, coaches need to make it fun. Most students participate in sports because they want to have fun. It is not the only thing in their life that is important to them — they have school, family, teammates, and God. Good coaches help them find balance.

“I work with the students in their mental/emotional, social, physical and spiritual part of their lives. I try to give them the tools to improve in each area and help them if they face obstacles.” — JODI MUETZEL

Q

Who has inspired you? Growing up, my family inspired me and still does. They taught me to be confident and strong and I always knew they had my back. My brother, Billy, passed away in 2011 and he was my biggest fan. He taught me to enjoy life and to let go of the stuff that did not matter. My sister, Vicki, who passed away in 2019 of cancer, was a huge part of my life. She was my ‘person.’ She battled cancer five times in seven years with dignity and strength. She relied on her faith, family and friends. She kept fighting until she couldn’t anymore, but had peace because she was a faithful person. Vicki taught me to live each day to the fullest and be the best person you can be. She still inspires me everyday. And so important, my family, Jeff, Nicole, and Sammy, have all made me a better person and are always there for me.

Q

In your experience, what is special about Cretin-Derham Hall? CDH is special because it is a community, a family that truly cares about you. The faculty/staff and students make this a great school. Working at CDH has made me a better person.


FAST FACTS FAMILY: Husband Jeff and daughters Nicole ’20 and Sammy ’22. HIGH SCHOOL: Tartan High School HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS PLAYED: Basketball, Softball, Soccer COLLEGE: Concordia College, St. Paul COLLEGIATE SPORTS PLAYED: Basketball and Softball STARTED AT CDH: 1994 HIGH SCHOOL COACHING CAREER: Softball and Basketball FIRST JOB: Road Construction Crew FAVORITE TYPE OF EXERCISE: Mix it up! GATORADE OR WATER: Water CHIPOTLE OR PUNCH PIZZA: Punch Pizza MORNING PERSON OR NIGHT OWL: Morning

Jodi teaches Yoga, as well as several other PE classes.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 21


// ADVANCING OUR MISSION

200+ Class Reps Connect Classmates A new program was launched this year to help connect our alumni with their classmates. Class Reps exist to strengthen alumni relations by engaging classmates with one another and with CDH. Today, there are over 200 class representatives from Cretin, Derham Hall and CDH. Due to interest, some grad years have more than one representative. Each class rep makes a two-year commitment to being a liaison between the school and alumni. Most use email and social media to share news about CDH or to invite their community to join in events. “I’m very excited about the new Class Representative program at CDH. The program allows classes to stay better

I Am CDH The new I Am CDH campaign highlights the incredible accomplishments of graduates of Cretin, Derham Hall, and Cretin-Derham Hall. Participants have shared their favorite memories and how their high school experience has impacted their journey. Read them all at c-dh.org/IAmCDH, or keep your eye on social media and our email newsletters for a new alumni highlight every month!

22 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org

informed about the school while also helping individual alumni stay better informed about their graduating class as a whole,” explained Scott Anderson ’84 Alumni Board Secretary and Class of 1984 Class Rep. “Being a class representative is a great way to stay involved with the school and stay in touch with your classmates.” If you would like to find your class rep, please visit c-dh.org/class-reps. We welcome new members, so if you are interested in being a class rep and would like to learn more, email Michlyn Walsh at mwalsh@c-dh.org.


// ADVANCING OUR MISSION

REUNION GIVING Each year, reunion classes are asked to participate in an anniversary gift to Cretin-Derham Hall. The following list represents those reunion classes, the percent of participation, and total dollars pledged and/or received through December 31, 2019.

LEGACY SOCIETY Welcomes Its Newest Members The Cretin-Derham Hall Legacy Society consists of those in the CDH community who have included the school in a bequest or have established a named endowment. Below are those who have joined since the Summer 2019 Traditions. Welcome and thank you for your stewardship! Estate of Frank Junghans ’38 Dr. Edmund J. Nightingale ’59 Timothy, MD ’64 & Kimberly Scanlan, PhD James Wicker ’60

60 YEAR REUNION

40 YEAR REUNION

25 YEAR REUNION

Cretin Class of 1959

Cretin Class of 1979

Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 1994

36% Participation $120,187

20% Participation $129,214

11% Participation $25,658

Derham Hall Class of 1959

Derham Hall Class of 1979

20 YEAR REUNION

29% Participation $9,750

31% Participation $159,627

50 YEAR REUNION

35 YEAR REUNION

Cretin Class of 1969

Cretin Class of 1984

32% Participation $412,587

14% Participation $29,004

Derham Hall Class of 1969

Derham Hall Class of 1984

25% Participation $11,085

14% Participation $16,390

45 YEAR REUNION

30 YEAR REUNION

Cretin Class of 1974

Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 1989

17% Participation $22,601

11% Participation $17,478

Derham Hall Class of 1974

Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 1999 11% Participation $23,555

15 YEAR REUNION Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 2004 5% Participation $1,615

10 YEAR REUNION Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 2009 9% Participation $6,130

5 YEAR REUNION Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 2014 4% Participation $1,204

21% Participation $43,950

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 23


// ADVANCING OUR MISSION

MARK YOUR CALENDAR...

For these upcoming events!

Taste of CDH!

Athletic Hall of Fame

APRIL 18, 2020 | 6–10 PM

JUNE 18, 2020 | 6–10 PM

Join fellow alumni, parents, and friends at Taste of CDH on April 18, 2020, in the Joe Mauer Field House. Food will be served from 6–9 pm. The winner of the Car Raffle to benefit co-curriculars at CDH will also be drawn (need not be present to win). To purchase raffle tickets, contact a CDH student or call Peggy Schafer at 651-696-3318.

The CDH Athletic Hall of Fame was created to recognize all studentathletes, teams, coaches, and others who have made significant contributions to the school’s athletic community, whether at Cretin, Derham Hall, or Cretin-Derham Hall. This year’s inductees are:

Featuring a variety of restaurants with a CDH connection, the night is a casual, fun, and tasty event for hundreds of friends of CDH. If you are connected to a restaurant or caterer and are interested in participating, please contact Peggy Gilligan at pgilligan@c-dh.org, or visit c-dh.org/TasteofCDH.

1991 & 1993 Raider Boys Basketball Teams

Lauren Gibbemeyer ’07

1991 Raider Girls Softball Team

Natalie Roedler Bollinger ’98

1981 Derham Hall Gymnastics Team Fall of 1957-60 Cretin Football Teams Mike Scanlan ’70 Cathy Childs Clyde ’85

Courtney Norman ’98 Corbin Lacina ’89 Ryan Harris ’03 Jack Hannahan ’98 Coach Ray Hitchcock, Honorary Raider Award

The Hall of Fame induction banquet will be held Thursday, June 18, in the Joe Mauer Field House at Cretin-Derham Hall with Mike Max as our host. Tickets will be available later this spring.

GiveCDH Every year, Cretin-Derham Hall hosts GiveCDH Day, a chance for our community to come together to support our students. This year, we had an amazing turnout — 1,221 people made a donation, which is a GiveCDH Day record! Sixty-two of those people were first-time donors. Our donors came from 40 different states, proof that the Raider community is strong across the nation! We raised $620,270 before matches! Thank you to everyone who gave, and those who made a gift for the first time. Your generosity gives students an exceptional place to learn, serve, belong, and thrive — today, and for generations to come. It is not too late to make your annual gift to CDH. Visit c-dh.org/give or call Peggy Schafer at 651-696-3318 to give your gift today!

24 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org


A celebration of all our alumni

NEW!

Steps to Sainthood 1 SERVANT OF GOD Cretin-Derham Hall

The local bishop opens a cause or case for the person’s sainthood that examines the life and writings of the candidate.

A celebration of all our alumni

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 | 6–10 PM

Evidence that shows the candidate lived a holy life is gathered and submitted in a special report called a positio to the Vatican’s Congregation for the Causes of Saints.

Alumni, mark your calendars for the first annual ONE Cretin-Derham Hall — A Celebration of All Our Alumni next fall. This exciting event will bring together alumni of all our schools (Cretin, Derham Hall, and CDH).

VENERABLE 2

“When Derham Hall and Cretin joined together in 1987, they shared the mission of teaching students about the joys of becoming adults. Now, as alumni, we are joining together to celebrate our history and our school, Cretin-Derham Hall.”

The report is reviewed by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome. If the committee and the Pope agree that the candidate did indeed live a life of virtue the candidate is then given the title of Venerable. This means that this person is worthy of our respect because of her or his noble character.

— H.H. BERT CHRISTENSEN ’69

CDH ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Cretin-Derham Hall

The Alumni Association is the driving force behind A celebration of all our alumni ONE Cretin-Derham Hall. We are thrilled that all our graduates, no matter which school, can come together celebrate our school and to reconnect with each other. Plan now to come and bring a couple of your fellow classmates, your siblings or family members!

3 BLESSED This stage is also called beatification. When someone is beatified, we call them “blessed.” All martyrs (those who died in the name of our faith) can be automatically beatified as a miracle of grace. For anyone else to be beatified, proof is usually required to show that the candidate caused a miracle to happen. A scientific commission must determine that the miracle cannot be attributed to a natural cause. Miracles are considered proof that the candidate is truly in heaven with God.

SAINT 4 In this final stage, there must usually be proof of a second miracle traced to the blessed person’s intercession. At this point, Blessed Brother James Miller needs just one miracle for canonization.

The Pope can then canonize the candidate as a person who is with God and worthy of universal veneration by the Church. A special ceremony is held to celebrate the declaration of this holy person as a saint.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 25


// ALUMNI PROFILE

From West 7th to Producer of World Class Events Joe Gallagher ’82 is still a hometown boy at heart

Joe Gallagher ’82 sits in his basement among a very impressive, and likely unparalleled, private collection of sports memorabilia. Among items such as the 2016 Ryder Cup podium, uniforms from Paul Molitor ‘74 and Joe Mauer ’01, and basketballs from The NBA Jam Session, Joe has collected the seats from All-Star Games, bats from homerun derbys, and so much more. His bobblehead collection features over 300 different athletes. Of particular note, the Raiders football helmet is front and center. For more on Joe’s career, check out WCCO-TV’s Life to the Max profile of Joe’s career at 26 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org https://youtu.be/-6B-hPEeXuU.


// ALUMNI PROFILE

[

here are hardworking, family oriented people who care about their community.”

Growing up on West 7th, Joe Gallagher ’82 listened closely when his dad, James Gallagher, told him to work hard and see where it could take you. That West 7th work ethic takes him all over the world. Literally. As the CEO of Doodle Productions (as well as FILO Productions which was sold in 2012), Joe has earned a reputation as one of the leading Live Event Sports Production Executives in the industry. He has staged some of the biggest sports events in the world, working with the National Basketball Association (NBA), Major League Baseball (MLB), Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), National Football League (NFL), and many more. Just in the last several years, he was Director of Operations for the 2016 Ryder Cup Opening and Closing ceremonies here in Minnesota, producer of the 2018 St. Paul Winter Carnival Ice Palace, and the producer of the 2019 NBA All-Star Weekend in North Carolina. His resume includes NBA All-Star Games and fan events in Barcelona, London, Abu Dhabi, and Mexico City, a couple of fan festivals for New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Lakers, three NFL Super Bowl Hospitality Events, and a Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) 10 City Baseball Tour. Most recently, he has taken on the event marketing for former Viking Chad Greenway’s new made-in-Minnesota top-shelf vodka Gray Duck Vodka.

Raider Connections The community he first encountered at Cretin has been instrumental throughout his life and continues to impact him today. Without a doubt, the most precious thing that resulted from his Cretin years is his wife of 39 years, Judy Schmiedeberg Gallagher ’84. He tells the story of how they met during the Winter Carnival, ironically enough given his later professional role with the Winter Carnival, especially the Ice Palace in 2018. They both were selected as Junior Royalty and became high school sweethearts. “She is my rock and has fired my entrepreneurial spirit since we met.” Raider connections have also proven to be integral to his professional success. “The key to my two companies’ success is that I have surrounded myself with talented CDH grads. I have an amazing team that have traveled the world with me to produce world class events, including Kevin Weinhandl ’97, Brian Buron ’01, Jim Buron ’02, Steve Buron ’04, and Joe O’Neill ’06. Wes Denning ’91 ran security detail for the 2016 Ryder Cup. In addition, his accountant for more than 20 years, Zack Ryan ’94 also hails from CDH. “The integrity and work ethic of these Raiders built my first company, FILO Productions, and many are still with me at Doodle.” He further credits his homeroom teacher, Dennis Denning ’62, for pushing him to his first professional job in sports, leading to a career that he could never have imagined while in high school. “I was sure I was going to be the next great baseball player to come from Cretin, just like my hero, Paul Molitor ’74,” Joe recalls with a laugh. “Then, Coach Denning cut me from 9th grade baseball.” Even though he was devastated, Joe listened to Denning who pushed him to use his interest in sports and work at Met Stadium. Working around sports gave him a passion for the industry, which proved to be invaluable experience. And, later, at a very stressful time in his life, his extended network saved him. “I was just 32 years old and I had a heart attack,” explained Joe. As frightening it is to be faced with death, Joe believes he was in especially good hands with his cardiologist, Dr. Victor Tschida, who was also a product of Catholic education. “My life changed in that moment — I don’t take any day for granted and am grateful for my God-given gifts of people in my life and the opportunity to use my talents in work I love.” In fact, he hopes all CDH students learn to value of this community and the impact it will have even beyond the four years of high school. He also encourages young people to build experiences — work or volunteer — while in high school that might influence a future career path. “Be a part of things that interest you. No resume will stand out if you are trying to get a job in a field in which you never spent any time.” “I have been blessed to work events around the world,” reflected Joe. “But I wouldn’t want to have my home base be anywhere but here, in the community I love so much.”

“I have been blessed to work events around the world. But I wouldn’t want to have my home base be anywhere but here, in the community I love so much.” — Joe Gallagher ’82 “The Ryder Cup was my biggest event,” Joe proudly explains. “The Opening and Closing ceremonies were huge undertakings and were broadcast live on NBC and The Golf Channel in over 190 countries — and it was extra special that it was hosted right here in my own hometown.” As a sports event producer, no two events are ever the same. He essentially becomes the ‘MacGyver’ of events — making sure he can solve all challenges and keep his clients happy. He can be on the road for months at a time, and finds himself working with athletes, entertainers, musicians and more. As busy as he is with major sporting events, he also supports local organizations that are dear to his heart, such as the Highland Friendship Club. He recently went to Kuwait to volunteer with the Memorial Day steak feed made possible by 2019 Serving the Troops: Kuwait. He was St. Paul’s 2018 Mr. Pat, representing the Irish community. He continues to support his childhood neighborhood by giving back to the local youth through many years of involvement with the West 7th Boys Club. “I love using my skill set to give back to my community,” he said. Joe admits that being based in the Twin Cities is somewhat odd for a major sports event producer, but his choice to be in his hometown is very intentional. “I am rooted in St. Paul,” Joe explained. “This place is different than all those other places where I have worked events — the people

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 27


// ALUMNI PROFILE

Selling a Future Rooted in Tradition Mary Jo Groeller Was Not Clowning Around

Mary Jo Groeller is our Honorary Derham Hall feature this issue. Several people nominated her not even realizing she was not an alum. We agreed, believing that her four decades of service to Derham Hall and later Cretin-Derham Hall brings her into a ‘class’ of her own. There was a lot happening in the world in 1968 that would affect generations of people. One such moment was a big decision that year made by Mary Jo Sweeney Groeller to teach French at Derham Hall. She had two job offers to teach French right out of college and, in one lifechanging moment, chose Derham Hall. With a twinkle in her eye, she confidently notes that, other than marrying her husband, Chuck Groeller ’62 in 1971, this was one of the best decisions she ever made. Having grown up in St. Paul, she attended Nativity and later St. Mark’s. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy and then went to college at St. Catherine’s where she studied Education, French and Sociology. “I always loved French, since 8th grade,” recalled Mary Jo. “So I studied it in college, but I did not know what I wanted to do with it until I realized I wanted to teach.” As a teacher, she found high school students to be both fun and challenging. She admired the hard work teachers did to challenge Derham Hall students, while channeling their creative energy and believed she found her niche. In the late 1970s, she was asked by Sister Judith Kavanaugh, CSJ to teach part time and take on responsibility for the school’s Public Relations. Over time, this role morphed into Admissions and she eventually was named Admissions Administrator. She realized early on how important it was to be a collaborator — both inside the school and with our colleague schools. “One thing that I realized early in that role was the schools in our Archdiocese needed to be collaborators with one another instead of strictly competitors,” 28 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org

said Mary Jo. “I helped organize an Association of Admissions Directors so that we could work together for the sake of the families.” Some of those early collaborations are still in effect today: We coordinate the admissions calendar so Open Houses/Tours are not at the same time on the same day, hold one placement testing day for prospective students, ensure scholarships/tuition assistance are not offered until after the test, and organize elementary visits to be respectful of the 8th grader’s time.

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She points to Richard Engler, former Principal/President, who lead CretinDerham Hall through the merger years until his retirement in 2015, as an inspired leader who helped steer the two very different schools into one strong community. Mary Jo recalls some very tough days and she often had to remind herself that she not only believed in the new school, she wanted to make it work and minimize the divisive nature of a merger. She notes that she is really proud that she was

“I learned how important ‘community’ is... We are a group of people who were, and still are, connected by our common philosophy and goals, caring, and fun. That is the basis of our school.” — MARY JO GROELLER

The biggest challenge of her career in Admissions, though, came when Derham Hall and Cretin became serious about merging. “All of a sudden, I was trying to recruit for a school that didn’t really exist yet,” she explained. “I looked for creative ways to show what we believed CDH ‘would’ be — and I tried very hard to show a very balanced view of what this newly merged school would offer.”

Confidence in the Unknown Anyone who lived through that time would agree that there were many who were hard to convince that they should have confidence in the unknown. “My job was to assure our current families as well as new families, and even some of our faculties from both schools, that the best of Cretin and the best of Derham Hall was coming together to form one stronger school.”

involved in the decision-making that helped determine what the school would be, and how it could be even better. “I learned how important ‘community’ is,” she said with passion. “We are a group of people who were, and still are, connected by our common philosophy and goals, caring, and fun. That is the basis of our school.” The new Cretin-Derham Hall became a school that really cared about students, was known for teaching in a fun and engaging way, and willing to try new ways of doing things. With a strong Catholic foundation and excellent academics, the newly merged school became known as a flagship for the Archdiocese.

Admissions Plus Mary Jo was not one to sit in the Admissions Office and watch from afar. Always a teacher, she was willing to step up and work with students where needed and


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found great energy in being a part of the student experience. For instance, one year, the chaperone for the Ireland trip suddenly fell ill and could not go. Mary Jo stepped in, delighted to help students explore another country and understand both the Irish and the Northern Irish people and the barriers between them. This evolved into her leadership on nine different Ireland trips. Perhaps her most unique role was as “Miss Molly,” a performing clown complete with a big wig, colorful costume and make-up. She and Brother Michael Rivers, aka Ollie the Clown, started a Clown Club for students at CDH, whose sole purpose was to entertain. The students had opportunities to not only have fun, but to bring joy to others. Brother Michael/Ollie describes her clowning days, “She was the perfect Irish Lassie, dressed in green from head to toe. Mary Jo was the perfect Caring Clown and was always ready to share her smile, hugs and gift of laughter.” “Whether she was clowning at a nursing home, a parish festival or at a child’s birthday party, her enthusiasm was contagious and Mary Jo definitely knows how to touch hearts!” Decisions matter — Mary Jo is proud that over four decades, she helped so many families to decide to join CDH. In addition, her personal life was impacted by joining the Derham Hall/ CDH community. She explains that she became truly dedicated to the school community as it evolved, and treasures her relationships with fellow faculty/ staff, families, and students. She and several other “Derham Originals” as they call themselves, still meet up four times each year. There is also a gathering of retirees every Monday for coffee. “I really loved this school and my job,” Mary Jo reflected. “My faith plays a large role in my life and, because Derham Hall and CDH were Catholic, I had a constant stream of faith mentors and found the philosophy of service reinforced my faith and brought me closer to God.” “I am so grateful to have chosen Derham Hall.”

Mary Jo was often the first point of contact for our prospective families and she welcomed the opportunity to share her love and respect for CDH.

“My job [as Admissions Director] was to assure our current families as well as new families, and even some of our faculties from both schools, that the best of Cretin and the best of Derham Hall was coming together to form one stronger school.” — MARY JO GROELLER

ABOVE: Mary Jo with her husband Chuck. RIGHT: Mary Jo as “Miss Molly.”

Her two children, Molly Groeller Dragert ’91 and Sam ’94 also attended Cretin-Derham Hall. In fact, her daughter was in the first freshman class of the merger. She and Chuck are blessed with six grandchildren.

“Mary Jo was the perfect Caring Clown and was always ready to share her smile, hugs, and gift of laughter.” — FELLOW CLOWN, BROTHER MICHAEL RIVERS

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 29


// ALUMNI PROFILE

Constructing a Special Place for Community

Ben Beery ’03 Designed the Lentsch Forum for his Alma Mater On January 21, Ben Beery ’03 stood in the new Tom and Debbie Lentsch Forum as students, teachers, alumni, and community members marvelled at the new space and the impact it will have on student life. Beery was already familiar with every inch — as the lead architect, he’s been thinking about how this project will impact CDH for more than a year. “Schools have this strong sense of community, and I wanted this space to reflect that. I’ve heard it referred to as a living room — I think that’s a perfect alignment of what this space is and its purpose. I’m really proud to make such an important addition to my alma mater.” When Beery was a student at CDH, he remembers the lack of any space to spend time with his friends — all social interaction happened in front of someone’s locker or passing in the hallways. That won’t be the case for future generations of students, who will have this new “living room” as a space to relax, work on projects, and enjoy each other’s company. Beery’s been preparing for this role for decades. Back when he was in high school, he was once the only student who registered for Drawing 3. Rather than asking him to pick a different course, he had the chance to pursue independent study — where he developed skills he’s still using today. “I spent a whole trimester just working with the instructor, teaching myself to draw and doing design projects,” Beery recalled. “We designed my dream house and all these other things. It was a period of time where I could just explore and draw.” Beery’s interest in architecture began long before that, as he grew up watching his parents take on major home projects. He saw remodels and additions go from sketches on paper to real spaces in their home, and was inspired to pursue even bigger projects. Now, as an architect with Wold Architects and Engineers, he specializes in schools. “I love the community aspect of designing a school,” he said. “A school building is many things; it’s not just a bunch of classrooms put together. These are big buildings that are very integrated in the community and they will be around for a long time. It’s really a chance to make an impact on a community.” He’s worked on Wayzata, Shakopee, Spring Lake Park, Highland, Pequot Lakes, and more, but he never imagined he’d have the chance to work on CDH.

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“I never even considered the possibility that I might get to put an addition on my high school,” he said. “The fact that I got that opportunity is just wonderful. It means a lot that I had a chance to come back and work on a place where I spent a lot of my formative years. It’s really an awesome opportunity and I think it’s rare.” The process of designing the Lentsch Forum began more than a year ago, when Beery sat down with CDH decisionmakers to talk about their goals for the project. They knew they wanted a grand entryway, a welcoming space that could be enjoyed by students and visitors alike. “We got pretty close right out of the gate on the design,” Beery said. “Part of that was because we knew we wanted one big room. We had to figure out how we could get you that space. You are pretty landlocked here, so there weren’t a lot of other places on the building available that had the space. “As far as the aesthetics of it, that came together quickly too as we really built off of things you already had in the facility to tie it together. The wood panelling is similar to the office, the brick is similar to the fieldhouse, the tower is mimicking the Hamline side. We didn’t want to create something totally brand new that was foreign to this campus. That helped make that decision process pretty efficient.” In his ten years as an architect, Beery has been surprised by the things they didn’t teach him in school, like how to run a business, sales, and communication with clients. In his work today, he spends most of his time collaborating with clients, understanding their needs, and focusing on relationships first. Up next is one of the biggest challenges of his career so far — a brand new high school for 1600 students in Owatonna. He’ll also be working on a remodel of White Bear Lake HS. “They’re massive big projects, some of the largest projects in our firm’s history,” he said. “It’ll be fun.”

Ben lives in St. Paul with his wife, Anna Ayotte Beery ’03, and their three children, Scarlett, Stella and Grayson. He earned both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s in Architecture from the University of Minnesota. In his free time, he enjoys spending time at the lake with his family.


“I love the community aspect of designing a school. These are big buildings that are very integrated in that community and they will be around for a long time. It’s really a chance to make an impact on a community.” — Ben Beery ’03

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 31


CRETINDERHAM HALL

Gala

• 2019 • THANK YOU! 2019 Gala Sponsors Michael ’63 & Jane Swenson Tammy Meister, DDS Timothy ’67 & Alice Thornton Captain’s Kens Foods City National Bank, an RBC Company Michael ’53 & Patricia Heffron The Opus Group Nick & Erin Schneeman Sisters of St. Joseph William Hren ’75 & Michele Jeffrey Hren ’76 J. Chris & Rita Brandt Robert Tautges ’71 Brian ’89 & Kathleen Bigelbach James & Anne Dougherty William Fiedler & Ruth Martinez Paul Cassidy & Sarah Youngerman John & Terry Griep Gregory & Patricia Shiely Oxley ’69 Julius & Katherine Gernes Patsy Buck Halvorsen ’49 Thomas & Beatrice Sexton

SUPPORT OUR 2019 Gala Advertisers Barbara Mingo Kitchen and Bath Design Captain Ken’s Foods Green Mill Inn Kueppers Kronschnabel & Skrypek PA Les Jones Roofing Inc. Michael Murray Photography Premier Fence, Inc. Red’s Savoy Pizza – St. Paul West Skinners Pub Sports & Orthopaedic Specialists, part of Allina Health St. Catherine’s University Sunshine Travel Company, Inc. Suzanne’s Cards, Inc. Tammy Meister, DDS, MS, PA Thomas Finn Company Tinucci’s University of St. Thomas Welsch’s Big Ten Tavern

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Community Celebrates at the CDH Gala Our community of alumni, parents, faculty/staff, and friends gathered to celebrate at the 10th Annual CDH Cretin-Derham Hall Gala on October 26, 2019, at the University of St. Thomas, Anderson Center. The program of the evening featured the talents of CDH Theater with student performing and singing to the delight of the audience. Special thanks goes to the chairs for the event: Tom & Mary Ek and Dan & Kelly Wicker. Their committee included: Scott Anderson ’84 & Kimberly MasloskAnderson, Jerry & Jeanne Inserra Dolinsky ’82, Tom & Katherine Howard, Jon & Amy Kircher, Rob & Stefanie Phythian, Bob ’71 & Kristi Salisbury, Nick & Erin Schneeman, and Bruce & Tiffany Sorensen. As the school’s largest fundraising event, there was also a live auction and a Fund-a-Need for STEAM improvements.

Several CDH students were featured in the performances. Picture left to right: Juliana Cruz, Eli Awada, Haidyn Kruse, Emma Schuld, Nick Guzik, Hunter Hansen, Billy Canter, Anna Ek, and Flannery McGreevy.


CRETINDERHAM HALL

// EVENTS

RaiderRama • 2020 •

CDH faculty are recognized by Gala guests.

Nancy Johnson (center), pictured with Sheila Christenson (left) and Ann Young (right), were big winners at this years RaiderRama.

RaiderRama 2020 is Fun for All!

Michael ’63 and Jane Swenson are joined by their family Jeff ’06, John ’06 and Amber Swenson.

The Raider community gathered at Mancini’s on January 16 for RaiderRama — a night for connecting with old friends and a chance win big in the fun (some say ‘quirky’) bingo/raffle game. Congratulations to the big winners: Bert ’69 and Sheila Christensen ($500) and David ’65 and Ann Young ($750). Greg and Nancy Johnson took home the grand prize of $1,500.

Dan and Cindy Jandrich Craighead ’87 and Erin and Vincent Keefe.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 33


CRETIN Alumni Banquet • 2019 •

// EVENTS

Dick Leonard ’57, Fr. Forliti ’54, Peter Honsa ’ 57

Members of the Class of 1969

Chris Gorrik ’87, Dan Ryan ’87, David Bird ’87, Mark Twombley ’87, Jim McFarland ’87

Cretin Banquet Brings Hundreds Back to Campus The 2019 Cretin Banquet brought together more than 300 alumni of Cretin High School for Mass, a social hour, buffet dinner, and a program. In addition to the anniversary classes of 1959 and 1969 who were honored, Dr. Ronald Mitsch ’52 was recognized as the recipient of the Bishop Cretin Award, and Patrick Sullivan ’58 as the recipient of the St. DeLaSalle Award. Both of those honorees received their awards at the 2019 Community Award Dinner. Casey O’Brien ’17, cancer survivor and University of Minnesota football player, inspired the audience with his personal story of dealing with cancer during high school, and football, both here at CDH and U of M. (See page 8 for excerpt of his speech.)

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Members of the Class of 1969


// EVENTS

COMMUNITY Awards Dinner • 2019 •

The Community Awards dinner, held October 7, 2019 at the Saint Paul Hotel, honored ten exceptional members of the Cretin-Derham Hall community. Hundreds of alumni, family and friends of CDH gathered to recognize the outstanding and inspirational impact of these distinguished members of our community. Inspired by our founders, the Brothers of the Christian Schools and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, we honor the following individuals for their professional and personal commitment to our CDH Values. St. DeLaSalle Award | Patrick J. Sullivan ’58 Hugh Derham Award | Deborah Rubbelke O’Halloran ’76 Bishop Cretin Award | Dr. Ronald Mitsch ’52 Eugene and Mary Frey Community Award | Erin and Nick Schneeman Carondelet Award | Martha Hanzel Johnson ’87 Monsignor Ambrose Hayden Legacy Award | John Schaller ’71 Signum Fidei Award | Kate O’Phelan Pletcher ’97 Signum Fidei Award | Brian Gornick ’98 Richard R. Engler Lifetime Achievement Award | Kenneth M. Markwardt ’45

PROFILES OF ALL AWARD RECIPIENTS CAN BE FOUND ON PAGES 36-40.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 35


// COMMUNITY AWARDS RECIPIENTS

BISHOP JOSEPH CRETIN AWARD | DR. RONALD MITSCH ‘52

Dr. Ronald Mitsch ‘52 This award is presented annually to a distinguished Cretin alum in recognition of his outstanding service to his community and to Cretin and Cretin-Derham High School. The award recognizes his achievements in his profession and exemplifies the highest and best traditions of Cretin High School. This award is presented in memory of the school’s founder Bishop Joseph Cretin, the first bishop of the diocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Ron Mitsch attended public school until high school when his mother decided that Cretin was the place for him. He enrolled as one of the only Lutherans in the school. One of the Brothers took him under his wing, and Ron took advantage of the opportunity to learn about different religion. He converted to Catholicism during college, when he married his wife Marilyn. Having earned a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Nebraska, John was hired at 3M to work on chemistry related to the moon landing. He recalls crying in an airport when the landing was televised. As his career at 3M progressed, he had the opportunity to work abroad, moving his family to the Netherlands in the late 1970s. By the time he retired in 1998, Ron was the Vice Chairman of the Board and Executive Vice President of Industrial and Consumer Markets. He and Marilyn have “No job was too small and no challenge was too focused their retirement on their family. After their son big,” said his son-in-law, Leo Johnson. “He applied his Sean passed away in 2005, business acumen, scientific inquisitiveness, and his they also raised his daughter. strong understanding of human nature to add They have donated millions value and profitably grow a variety of businesses.” to scholarship funds both in the Twin Cities and across the nation.

ST. DE LASALLE AWARD | PATRICK J. SULLIVAN ’58

Patrick J. Sullivan ’58 This award is presented in honor of the Christian Brothers and is presented annually to a distinguished alum in recognition of his outstanding service to his community and to Cretin and Cretin-Derham Hall High School. The award recognizes achievements in his ministry exemplifying the highest and best traditions of Cretin High School.

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Pat Sullivan played football and hockey at Cretin. After graduating in 1958, he spent the next three years in the Army. In 1964, he opened a general contracting business focused on home remodeling, then expanded into commercial contracting building casinos, hotels, and entertainment centers. Pat married Gay Biagini in 1961 and they raised four children: Jeff, John, Jenny, and Jane. After his wife passed away in 2002, Pat retired to Texas. There, he met his second wife, JoAnn. After retirement, Pat became involved in mission work in Nuevo Progreso, Mexico with the Sisters of St. Dorothy. Pat recalled the advice of Brother Patrick from his Cretin days, who told him, “Christianity is really not that complicated with a lot of rules and regulations. There are really only two: love your God and love your neighbor.” When asked what made Pat exceptional, his high He helped remodel the main school friend Louie Bartscher wouldn’t miss an church in town, Our Lady of opportunity to tease his old pal a bit. “Pat wasn’t Guadalupe, as well as constructing a the greatest athlete in the class of ’58. Pat wasn’t community center, medical clinic, the smartest guy in the class of ’58. Pat wasn’t the and shelter and expanded school. most financially successful guy in the class The team constructed another two of ’58. Actually, none of us know why Pat is being churches in nearby towns. Recently, honored... I suppose being a good Christian has Pat built 900 bunk beds so families something to do with it,” he said do not have to sleep on the ground.


// COMMUNITY AWARDS RECIPIENTS

HUGH DERHAM AWARD | DEBORAH RUBBELKE O’HALLORAN ‘76

Deborah Rubbelke O’Halloran ‘76 This award is presented annually to a female who is reflective of the charisms of the Sisters of St. Joseph and Derham Hall. Women who receive this award have exemplified Derham Hall’s ideals of Christian love, service, and objectives. The award is now combined with the Hour Glass Award.

Deb O’Halloran was the youngest of five siblings who all attended Catholic schools; their parents selected the Catholic high school that best fit each child. Deb graduated from Derham Hall in 1976. She earned a business degree from Marquette University and an MBA in Finance from the University of Minnesota. In 1986, she married John O’Halloran ’75, and they have two children, Murphy and Charlotte. Deb worked in the corporate world for 25 years, managing functions such as marketing, product management, and mergers/acquisitions for major bank holding companies and investment banking. In the late 1990s, Deb co-founded Second Stork alongside Matt Michalski ’87. They help new parents in crisis who lack the essential items they need to keep their newborns safe and healthy. The “Deb devotes so much of her time and non-profit, which is entirely volunteer-run, has helped more than 10,000 Minnesota families and energy to caring for new parents in has partnered with nearly 90 hospitals. need,” said Second Stork board member Deb has served as Board Chair and Director of Ann Hilger. “She has offered a hand up Operations since it started, working full-time many in a time of crisis to literally thousands weeks and never taking any pay. Under her of people through her work at Second leadership, Second Stork has refined a unique Stork. So many babies get a healthier model that leverages the passion of experienced and safer start in life because of Deb.” business professionals and relies on highly organized, reliable and dedicated volunteers.

MONSIGNOR AMBROSE HAYDEN LEGACY AWARD | JOHN SCHALLER ’71

John Schaller ‘71 This award is presented in recognition of Monsignor Hayden for his outstanding service to the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis as Vicar General. This award recognizes an individual(s) whose spirit and energy reflect an understanding of the need to preserve the past and provide for future generations. The Award recipient(s) exemplify the charisms of the Christian Brothers and the Sisters of St. Joseph.

At Cretin, John Schaller played golf, baseball, and was on the state championship bowling team. But his real passion was JROTC, which he credits with teaching him discipline, a lesson that he has carried with him long past his graduation in 1971. When a motorcycle accident forced him to leave college at the end of his freshman year, John got a job as a mechanic, and then moved into sales. At age 30, he founded Central Power Distributers and has been the company’s sole owner since 1991. John Schaller is proud of growing his company to employ more than 90 people, and takes his responsibility to them and their families seriously. These days, he enjoys mentoring the next generation of business leaders. He is also devoted to the next generation of his extended family. “He is a very loving, caring and generous person,” said his sister Sandra. “He always says that Cretin formed him “My father has taught me the long into the man he is today. He is now sending term value of having discipline and my granddaughter to Holy Spirit and then perseverance. He has shown me how to CDH to continue her journey.” to be an honest man and a dependable He also recently created the Schaller friend who is there with loving support Raider Brigade scholarship to support in life’s difficult times,” said his son Ryan. future generations of Raiders in the JROTC program.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 37


// COMMUNITY AWARDS RECIPIENTS

CARONDELET AWARD | MARTHA HANZEL JOHNSON ‘87

Martha Hanzel Johnson ‘87

This award is presented annually to a distinguished woman who is reflective of the charisms of the Sisters of St. Joseph and Derham Hall. Women who receive this award have attained eminence in their particular field of endeavor.

Martha Hanzel Johnson was the youngest of four children who all attended Cretin or Derham Hall. She credits Honors History and Honors Shakespeare with providing her with a foundational love of learning and critical thinking skills. At St. Mary’s College, she studied abroad at Trinity College in Dublin — a formative experience, setting her on her career path. She earned a Masters in Literature at the University of St. Thomas and a Ph.D. in American Studies at the University of East Anglia in the UK. After college, she worked with study abroad programs for students in London and Dublin. She returned to Minnesota in 2001 and has held a variety of global education roles at the University of Minnesota. As Assistant Dean of the Learning Abroad Center, she oversees a staff both in the US and abroad. Cynthia Banks, President of the Global She has served on the boards of Leadership League, is proud to work multiple nonprofits in international alongside Martha. “Martha is one of the education. She is currently the Chair of the most influential leaders in global education. Board for the Fund for Education Abroad She blazes trails with innovative overseas and a founding board member of the programs, setting the bar high for others to Global Leadership League, a professional follow. Her calm confidence and seasoned organization dedicated to women in wisdom make her a gifted and desired international education.

mentor,” she said.

EUGENE AND MARY FREY COMMUNITY AWARD | ERIN AND NICK SCHNEEMAN

Erin and Nick Schneeman

This award was instituted in 1999 in recognition of the tremendous commitment Eugene ’48 and Mary Frost Frey ’52 demonstrated to Cretin-Derham Hall and the larger community. This award is presented to an individual(s) who reflects the mission and values of Cretin-Derham Hall through deep connectedness and involvement with CretinDerham Hall and other community interests.

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Nick and Erin Schneeman first met at the University of Notre Dame where they were both Division 1 athletes — Nick played soccer while Erin played basketball and field hockey. They have now been married for 38 years, and have sent seven of their eight children to Cretin-Derham Hall. Their children are grown, successful, and happy and they credit CDH for giving them a solid start on that road and forging in them a sense of family, friends and faith that they took with them and have not lost. Erin worked for Ecolab and then stayed home with their children while volunteering regularly for Nativity Church and School and later CDH as CDH Parent Association president. She is currently on the Board of Second Stork and the Sisters of St. Joseph Ministries “Erin and Nick are two people who are always Foundation. willing to step up and help get things done. Nick attended medical school They are not a “sit on the sidelines” couple. They at the University of Minnesota and devote their time and talents to completing the worked in family practice for 13 years goal or project at hand. We have worked with and then 15 years in geriatrics. In his the Schneemans on a number of school, church spare time, he coached boys and and community projects and committees girls soccer and hockey for 25 years. and have admired their endless energy and He has also spent many hours organization! As a team, they are truly an asset volunteering in their church and to our CDH and St. Paul communities,” said their school communities.

friends Kevin and Teri McCloughan.


// COMMUNITY AWARDS RECIPIENTS

SIGNUM FIDEI AWARD | BRIAN GORNICK ’98

Brian Gornick ’98 The term “Signum Fidei” means ‘rising star.’ This award is presented annually to one male who reflect the ideals of the Christian Brothers and the Sisters of St. Joseph. The award recognizes his outstanding eminence in his particular field of endeavor and/or outstanding service in the community.

Brian Gornick played football, hockey, and baseball at CDH and he graduated in the Top 10. At the Air Force Academy, Brian was a Division I athlete in both hockey and baseball, as well as a Distinguished Graduate and ranked first in his class. Brian was an NHL draft pick of the Anaheim Ducks and pursued a pro hockey career, later playing for the Columbus Blue Jackets. As a member of the Armed Forces World Class Athlete Program, Brian trained for the 2006 Winter Olympics. Unfortunately, injuries prematurely ended his hockey career and Brian attended The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania where he received his MBA with Honors. After interning at Morgan Stanley, Brian began his finance career in the San Francisco area. Brian and his wife Alona returned to the Midwest with the Chicago-based private equity firm GTCR. Brian recently left to start his own investment firm. “What Brian was able to accomplish and Brian enjoys volunteering with achieve academically, athletically, and organizations with an educationmilitarily at the Air Force Academy may related mission. Brian and Alona have never be equaled. He is truly an extremely two beautiful daughters, Riley and gifted and extraordinary individual,” said Morgan, and reside in Chicago. Brian Frank Serratore, Head Hockey Coach at the also has a son, Shane, attending the University of Minnesota. United States Air Force Academy.

SIGNUM FIDEI AWARD | KATE O’PHELAN PLETCHER ’97

Kate O’Phelan Pletcher ’97

The term “Signum Fidei” means ‘rising star.’ This award is presented annually to one female who reflect the ideals of the Christian Brothers and the Sisters of St. Joseph. The award recognizes her outstanding eminence in her particular field of endeavor and/or outstanding service in the community.

Kate Pletcher was one of nine children and began her schooling in public school. As the daughter of a Cretin graduate and the granddaughter of a Derham Hall graduate, she was intrigued by the CDH experience. Her family agreed to save up so she could attend, and she credits that choice with being one of the best decisions of her life. Service was a key part of her CDH experience and the importance of giving back has continued to stick with her long after her graduation in 1997. Kate majored in Public Relations at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and later earned her MBA at UCLA-Anderson. She worked at a business development consultancy and then became the Director of Global Brand Licensing at Skechers before leaving nine years ago to “Most people know Kate for her warm and launch a recruiting company. magnetic personality, her generosity, and In addition, Kate is on the board of her sharp wit, but I know her as the spark UCLA’s Bruin Professionals. She created of energy and endless optimism that make UCLA Anderson’s CEO Forum, a peerher an incredible mother, a successful mentoring program. She has also served as an adjunct professor at UCLA, in both the entrepreneur, and the greatest wife/ undergraduate and business schools. best friend in the world. Like no one else, Kate works alongside her husband, Kate inspires and elevates those around Erik. They have two children, 5-year-old her, making the world a better place,” her Cain and 3-year-old Finn. husband Erik said.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 39


// COMMUNITY AWARDS RECIPIENTS

RICHARD R. ENGLER LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD | KENNETH M. MARKWARDT ’45

Kenneth M. Markwardt ’45 The Richard R. Engler Lifetime Achievement Award is given to one recipient in honor of a lifetime of exemplary service and dedication to Cretin-Derham Hall and our broader community. This award is presented in recognition of the long history of service by Dick Engler, the President of Cretin-Derham Hall between 1990 and 2015 whose commitment and hard work impacted generations of CDH families.

Ken Markwardt grew up in St. Paul, graduated from Cretin in 1945 and joined the Army. He was sent to Aberdeen, SD, but was sent home after just two months because World War II had ended. He then enrolled in St. Thomas College and married his wife, Bernice, after graduation. The two had met at a Christmas party when he was a sophomore at Cretin. They went on to have five children and seven grandchildren. He joined Ecolab in 1951 when the company only had 175 employees. Today, it employs more than 40,000. He held positions in the Accounting and Treasurer’s departments before climbing to Senior Vice President of Finance in 1973 and being elected a Director in 1977. Ken became involved with the Catholic Athletic Association in 1953. He originally helped with finances, and later served on the Board of Directors. He is now a Trustee of the organization. He has also served on the Board of St. Joseph’s Hospital, St. Mary’s “Ken is a man of great virtue and integrity,” Hospital, Carondelet Health Care, said Father Dan Haugan. “The two greatest and Health East. virtues I think Ken exhibits and his life are Ken has always been proud to step those of generosity and love. Within the up and help those in his community Catholic community, Ken has generously who need assistance. He and Bernice are loyal and generous CDH shared his many talents in service to his benefactors. parish church for decades.”

s

Announcement of the first ever Richard R. Engler Lifetime Achievement Award Dick Engler served as Principal and/or President of CDH for 25 years before he retired in 2015. During this time, he provided much needed leadership in bringing the cultures of Cretin and Derham Hall together. This was no easy task, but he was widely heralded for his ability to bring stability, focus and vision for the future to the somewhat tumultuous process. As part of that process, he worked with faculty and staff to define the seven values of the school that are the guiding principles for us still today. He also worked diligently to ensure that the school would be financially sound. He was very successful at building upon the alumni and community’s great support and love for the school by establishing an endowment that strengthened tuition assistance programs and updated the facilities over his term to meet the evolving curricular and co-curricular needs. Over those 25 years, his list of his accomplishments is impressive, but it was the way he lead the school that ended up being his calling card. He was a deeply faithful man and considered Catholic education his vocation. In fact, for 37 of his 42 years in education, he was able to practice his faith every day in Catholic schools. He exemplified a life-long commitment to a continued pursuit of excellence and was willing to work hard to make it happen. He did so, not for the sake of excellence itself, but because he wanted the very best for the students and faculty and staff of Cretin-Derham Hall. It was the love of the kids, and the potential he saw in each one that made such a difference. Frank Miley, current President and former Vice President of Advancement under Engler summarized it best. “When you touch thousands and thousands of lives, it is like a ripple in a pond. His impact will just go on and on for generations.” 40 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org


// CHAPLAIN’S LETTER

Dear Friends,

For generations, students, faculty, and staff have begun each significant part of their day with these acclamations, St. John Baptist DeLaSalle (Pray for us!), Live Jesus in our hearts! (Forever!) Then, when Cretin and Derham Hall merged, St. Joseph was added to the list. This generation of CDHers have a new name, Blessed James Miller, a Christian Brother who taught at Cretin the late 60s and early 70s. He was martyred in Guatemala and recently given the title “Blessed” by the Church. He has been added to a very short list of ecclesiastical luminaries whose prayers are sought by us each school day. Often, we don’t give this part of our prayer much thought. Sure, we respond “pray for us” when the names are spoken. But, in reality, we seldom pause, and ask ourselves, “What is it we want these holy people to pray for as we invoke their names? Saints are named by the church so the faithful, you and I, can be inspired by their lives. In other words, we seek from them and their special place in the heart of God, some divine influence especially as it relates to our daily life at CDH. For example, if the day is just beginning, we hope it will be a good day through their intercession. When we need comfort to deal with sadness or grief, the names of Saints John Baptist DeLaSalle, Joseph, and Blessed James are invoked by us in our need. I believe there might be another reason we regularly say these names out loud and ask for their assistance. This reason is simply this. As they offered inspiration, encouragement and solace through their own words and deeds and thus influenced the lives of people they served, our true reason for asking them to pray for us is that each of us might do the same. In other words, when we respond, “Pray for us” we are seeking intercession to be ourselves, as they were, and maybe inspire others, as they did, when they lived here on earth. The problem is, most of us believe Saints lived extraordinary lives in order to be saints in the first place. But how many of us have met people we encounter, and think, “I would like to be like them”. They are friends, family, teachers, coaches, and people in our everyday life. They make us feel better about ourselves. They inspire us by something they say or do. If we were to remark to them about how they moved us, they would normally dismiss it. Most would be surprised. They are just being who they are. The key to inspiring others is not to make it our goal. If we do inspire, it is because we have understanding and appreciation of our unique gifts, given by God and used by us to live our life gracefully with others. Maybe this is why we always add the last acclamation, “Live Jesus in our hearts.” We hope He might guide us to the wisdom in our own hearts and thus live our true selves each day. Like St. John Baptist DeLaSalle, St. Joseph and Blessed James Miller, and so many others, we can invite others to do the same.

“The key to inspiring others is not to make it our goal. If we do inspire, it is because we have understanding and appreciation of our unique gifts, given by God and used by us to live our life gracefully with others.”

May God bless you and your family, Father Patrick Kennedy ’69

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 41


// ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

Help Locate Our Missing Alums The CDH Advancement Office asks for your help in locating our lost alums for the CDH classes of 1990, 1991, 1995, 1996, 2000 and 2005. We are interested in emails, addresses, and/or phone numbers you have for the alumni listed on this page. Mail updates to CDH Advancement Office, 550 S. Albert St., St. Paul, MN 55116, or contact Peggy Schafer ’79 at 651-696-3318 or pschafer@c-dh.org. You are also encouraged to update your information online at c-dh.org/Updateinformation. Thank you. Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 1990 Goni Blake Ingrid L. Clark Freyinger Christy Faison James Greeley Molly Gruber Williams Jason Josephes Rick Koester Andrew Manthey Anne McKim Eldridge Edward Mikesh Gail A. Mollner Brian Mulhern Sean P. O’Connell Steven Rocco John J. Ryan Kevin H. Scanlon Scott H. Wahlstrom Janell L. Winter Olsen Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 1991 Michael J. Bozicevich Tera R. Davis Tamara DeLisi Stire Joseph J. Foster Diallo K. Gant Grady C. Hannah Theresa M. Hohensee Anthony P. Johnson

Kristina Kochevar Lemkuhl Megan A. Lynch Seebeck Paula J. Mahowald Sara M. O’Hara Wagner Jill K. Rooney Adam D. Ruzichka Erin E. Wills Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 1995 Timothy M. Altier Patrick R. Anderson Tamara R. Anderson Matthew D. Byrne Sean M. Connelly Margaret M. Cunniff Melillo Timothy Donohoo Jeffrey J. Galatowitsch Bradley Glynn Devan B. Greene Stephen Griesgraber Scott A. Hansen Jennifer L. Krejce Michelle A. La Casse Michael W. McManus Eric Mondry Jennifer Norqual Bernadette M. Pollard Nicole R. Rager-Weber

Antonio R. Rocha Natalya Sheverdina Kelly M. Simons Lindsay M. Solum Margaret Weidner Mathew R. Winbigler

Charles Sadler Mark H. Schubert Neil P. Senauer Daniel A. Sierra Amethyst L. Smith Jaime Stacey Allison L. Tegeler Lore Ugalde David Vang James V. Wilson Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 1996 Marissa J. Bertram Meagan M. Conlin Nicole Cragg John C. Dailey Timothy J. Dolan Benjamin R. Doran Joshua G. Ferber Meghan E. Geraghty Kathryn D. Hoffman Rachel A. Jacobs Brian B. Johnson Andrew Jursich Sara C. Lindsay Rosemary McArdell Mark T. McGinnity Stephanie L. Pihaly Regnier Andrew D. Roberto

Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 2000 Venise Battle Zachary Beckmann Sara N. Befort Beau Brueggemann Lauren W. Deming Herington Michael Engel Nicholas J. Hagen Kariann Hansen Rafael C. Harrington Sarah Hoffman Ann Marie James Calvin Johnson Richard Kappelhoff Maureen C. Larkin Jolene M. Larson Timothy R. Lemmons Erin H. Mackley Molly Marchessault Darren McGill Erin McLaughlin Amelia Nelson

Joseph Otremba Peter Schlosser Christine B. Setterlund Elizabeth K. Stone Catherine Swisher Kammerer Wesley Villegas Martha Wegner Benjamin Werner Cretin-Derham Hall Class of 2005 Diana Gepp Thomas Hauer Matthew Himebaugh Wilbert E. Houston Matthew H. Jackson Rachel Kloek Kevin Meyer Tracy Miller James P. Moorman Aiiko Naozaki Claire O’Leary Ashley Ott Ashley Roberts Katy Schumacher Kathleen A. Siemers Lisa Singh

CDH Alumni Do you still live at your parent’s house? If not, please update us on where we can send reunion information, class updates, and other news about CDH.

We need your help!

Parents of CDH Alumni

We are making a tremendous effort to update our addresses for our CDH alumni. Many of them still have your address in our database and we need your help to update our data. Please notify us of your son’s or daughter’s current contact information or have them visit the link below to update us easily online.

Go to c-dh.org/UpdateInformation 42 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org


// ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

1950s Don Cosgrove ’58 published a book, The Cast is Dyed, which covers his summer stock theater experiences about as far off-Broadway as you can get. A mixture of fact and fiction, it chronicles the beginnings of his life in professional theater and media, from one-line parts to leading man and back again, from Cretin High School shows to the famous Theater Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland, working with many famous actors along the way.

1960s Fr. Pat Kennedy ’69 retired, but continues his work as the Chaplain of CDH.

1970s Artist Jeanne Stasny Ross ’72 was featured in the Community Reporter. Her storefront, LocalColor Artisans, is located on Randolph Ave. in St. Paul. Alan Link ’73 was promoted to Associate Vice President – Legal and Senior Managing Attorney — Real Estate at Regis Corporation. Dr. Stephen McDonnell ’75 was installed as the 2019-20 President of the Minnesota Dental Association.

Tony Brausen ’77 was featured in a Star Tribune article on January 23, “Taking a cue from activist investors.” He discussed his idea of taking an outsider’s view of your company in order to grow. Jim Landwehr ’79 published two poetry collections in Fall/Winter of 2019. Thoughts from a Line at the DMV is a collection of more than 50 poems. Genetically Speaking is a chapbook of more than 30 poems on the subject of fatherhood. These two are additions to Jim’s three other books of poetry and two full-length memoirs, Dirty Shirt and Portland House. His current memoir-in-progress is titled Cretin Boy.

1980s Trish O’Connor Haugh ’84 received a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics Teaching. She has been a math teacher at Wildwood Elementary School in Mahtomedi, MN for 30 years. Dawn Reding ’88 was profiled in the Pioneer Press for her company, Gloves Up. She sells a line of boxing gloves that are designed to be given as a gift to loved ones who are struggling.

Joel Chiodi ’89, Senior Vice President for Scout Productions, is on the production team for Netflix’s “Queer Eye,” which won three Emmys in September. He is currently working on a documentary that will debut on HBO Max next summer.

1990s Krista O’Malley ’90 was named to the board of the Minnesota Historical Society. Lisa Utvik Simplot ’90 opened a residential house cleaning company, Two Maids and a Mop, in Woodbury. They service all of St. Paul and most of the surrounding area. Chris Weinke ’90 was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame. He was part of the Florida State ’99 national championship team and won a Heisman Trophy in 2000. He is currently on the coaching staff. Brendan Shields ’94 was named the Republican Staff Director of the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee. Previously, he was the House Homeland Security Committee Staff Director.

CORRECTION TO 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT // The Tributes In Memory section should include John Hughes ’90.

2000s // Phil Ventura ’00 (right) was recently promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force and selected to command American Forces Network — Pacific, headquartered in Tokyo. In this role he will lead 250 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines across Japan, Korea, Diego Garcia Island, and Hawaii in the creation and distribution of multimedia content designed to entertain and inform U.S. Service members and their families via radio, television, and social media platforms.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 43


We love sharing the news of our alumni from Derham Hall, Cretin, or Cretin-Derham Hall! Please send updates to news@c-dh.org.

// ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

Kaitlin Beaudry Turner ’99 was sworn in as Interim District Attorney for the 11th Judicial District of Colorado. Her term will expire at the end of 2020.

Coach Rosie Malone-Povolny ’07 led the CDH Girls Soccer team to state.

2000s Brian Knutson ’00 was selected for the Command and General Staff College Interagency Fellowship, and is working at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in Washington, D.C. as an Army Interagency Fellow. Ben Beery ’03 was the lead architect on the design of CDH’s new Lentsch Forum. Read more about Ben on page 30.

Elle Crawford ’17 was voted third-team All-American for women’s lacrosse. She plays for Regis University.

Danny Docherty ’08 finished in third place in the Twin Cities Marathon on October 6. He qualified for the Olympic trials.

2010s Paige Batterbee ’12 played Leslie in an episode of Amazon’s “Modern Love” TV show. Her stage name is Elizabeth Paige. Conor Rhoda ’13 spoke at the 30th annual Bruce Smith Golf Classic on June 17. Jack Lacina ’15 received the Rimington Trophy. He is a center for Augustana University. Nick Giles ’03, who teaches Art at CDH, has been working with Forgotten Star Brewing Co. in Fridley during his spare time. He has designed their beer flight holders, beer signage, coasters, lawn games, and beer tokens. Joe Gilbertson ’03 designed and installed a large steel star in the brewery.

and the NCAA Softball Championship World Series All-Tournament Team. Overall, her team finished third out of 418 D3 teams.

Hannah Kampmann ’16 had an excellent softball season at Trine University. She was honored as a Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association Pitcher of the Year and first-team all-conference. She was on the NCAA Regional All-Tournament Team

Casey O’Brien ’17 has received many accolades for his inspirational story, including a feature on “ESPN”, the “Today Show,” and “Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week.” Jacob Pinc ’17 transferred to Viterbo University to continue his baseball career in La Crosse, WI. He also played for the Kansas Curve in Wichita, KS and the Northwoods League for the Mankato Moondogs this past summer. Chan’el Anderson-Manning ’18 earned Honorable Mention All-Conference in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. She plays basketball for Hamline University. Michael Hannon, Joseph Nussbaum, Noah Peirson, and Zachary Sommerfeld, all ’18, became Eagle Scouts in a joint ceremony on August 6. Kennedy Spiering ’18 was named New England Women’s Hockey Alliance Defensive Player of the Week on October 22. She plays for Sacred Heart University. Abraham Teuber ’18 is a student at Grinnell College, where Joe Biden held a Town Hall on November 11. As a student, Abraham had the opportunity to attend and be part of the political process up close. Grace Anetipa ’19 was named Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Volleyball Setter/Libero of the Week in September. George Maguire ’19 is a goalie for the Steel County Blades, a junior hockey team in Owatonna.

2000s // Alyssa Karel Ylinen ’03 was inducted into the Catholic Athletic Association (CAA) Hall of Fame in February. Pictured are Steve Karel ’76, Alyssa and husband Jon, and Taffy Karel. 44 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org

Louie McGee ’19 spoke at TEDxMinneapolis last summer. Read more about him on page 10.


CD H EVENTS

In Memoriam This is a compilation of deceased alumni and friends known to us that died between July 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019. Please remember in your prayers our deceased Cretin Derham Hall and Cretin-Derham Hall alumni and their families especially: William J. Whelan ’40 Gordon A. Williams ’40 Thomas J. Carroll ’41 Bernard F. Reilly ’42 Margaret Wunderlich Hanson ’43 Raymond T. McInerny ’45 George N. Sausen PhD ’45 Roy H. Pangle ’46 Helen R. Kelley ’47 G. Patrick Sampair ’47 Margaret Syftestad Failes ’47 Donald M. Weber ’48 Thomas A. Rausch ’49 Robert E. Ullman ’49 Donald J. Dolan ’50 John M. Ertel ’50 F. James Kennedy ’50 Michael J. Lentsch ’50 James J. Prifrel Sr. ’50 Francis E. Truso ’50 Robert J. Goering ’51 William J. Lynch ’51 Helen Soshnik Reardon ’51 Richard J. Huntley ’52 Lawrence C. May ’52 Maynard W. Oster ’52 Eugene J. Pierre ’52 Robert L. Thill ’52 Donald P. Jepson ’53 William J. Yaeger ’53 Paul G. Bigelbach ’54 Dean F. Medcalf ’54 Richard F. Powers ’54 Frederic E. Scofield ’54 Thomas J. McElhone ’55 Joseph M. Buchmeier ’56 Patricia Hand Reisch ’56 Patrick J. Leary ’56 William E. Cosgrove ’57 James R. Mergens ’57 Ronald M. Spurr ’57 James J. Thommes ’57 James W. Beatty ’58 Kenneth G. Lamb ’58 Paul F. McCloskey, Jr.58 Gary A. Gardner ’59 Peter H. Knoll ’59 Thomas E. Carroll ’60 Duane L. Holmes ’60

Bonnie Heinen Daly ’61 Richard J. Sands ’61 Terence M. Ernst ’62 Gilbert E. Farrar ’62 David D. Rosga ’62 William J. Weber ’62 Robert J. Connor ’63 Patrick J. Curran ’63 Charles A. Farrell Jr. ’63 Maryann McFadden Pearson ‘63 Richard J. Miller ‘63 Rodger E. Slater ’63 Ronald S. Whitethorn ’63 Robert B. Bates ’64 Joseph W. Martin ’64 Thomas J. McLean ’66 Kevin T. Kelleher ’67 Gloria J. Link ’68 Richard T. Powers ’68 David B. Farrell ’69 Peter M. Runyon ’69 William A. Stophlet ’69 Daniel J. Quintavalle ’70 Mary Alexander Ronnebaum ’71 Veronica N. Kraft ’71 John J. Winterer ’72 Mark A. Fonfara ’75 Michael T. Hayden ’75 Michael S. Metcalf ’76 James D. Weger ’76 Jerome J. Cubus ’78 Suzanne Dillon ’85 Kurt J. Streiff ’86 Keith R. Tonn ’87 Steven M. Sager ’89 Stephen Rudzitis ’00 Sarah E. Peterson ’03 Michael J. Endres ’07 Paige Bullis ’20 LeRoy Beaudoin Joan Hawkins Donald G. Kietzmann Gail M. Knutson V. Clare Paradise Mary Ann Peterson Gerald J. Prescott Lucille C. Roby Joseph P. Vaughan

// MARCH 2020 19

New Parent Orientation

25 Christian Brothers Celebration of Brother James Miller Beatification // APRIL 2020 6-13

Easter Break

18

Taste of CDH

24-26

Spring Musical: Holiday Inn

29

Grandparents Mass

// MAY 2020 1-3

Spring Musical: Holiday Inn

4-8

Fine Arts Week

27 Commencement // JUNE 2020 5

Last day of school

18

Athletic Hall of Fame

Visit c-dh.org for the most up-to-date Cretin-Derham Hall school calendar.

Cretin-Derham Hall // Winter 2019-2020 45


TRADITIONS Cretin-Derham Hall

Co-sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and the Brothers of the Christian Schools

// Board of Directors 2019-2020

we’d like to hear from you...

Katie Weinberger Stewart ’87, Chair Brian McMahon ’87, Past Chair Michael Dickson ’83, Vice-Chair Rick Long ’79, Treasurer Beth Woodward Domler ’88, Secretary Lance Bonner ’03 Brother Francis Carr, FSC Michael Cole ’71 Agnes Foley, CSJ Scott Kier Barry Lieske, AFSC Chris Ludwig, CSJ Anne Cullen Miller Stephanie Phythian

Maria Wagner Reamer ’82 Michael Salmen ’83 Cathy Steffens, CSJ Frank Miley (ex-officio) Mona Passman (ex-officio) Kevin Lally ’98, Faculty Representative Martha Thornton Montzka ’99, Faculty Representative

// Administration Frank Miley, J.D., President Mona Passman, Principal Amy Bellus ’90, Assistant Principal

// Advancement Office Rob Bollinger, Vice President for Advancement Annie Broos, Director of Communication and Public Relations Lauren Campbell, Digital Content Specialist Lisa Ford, Advancement Database Manager Peggy Gilligan, Director of Annual Fund Connor Magee, Advancement Associate Chuck Miesbauer ’03, Alumni & Development Gift Officer Peggy Gartland Schafer ’79, Advancement and Alumni Associate Michlyn Vogel Walsh ’92, Advancement and Alumni Associate Photography in this issue is used with permission courtesy of: Michael Murray Photography Andy King Photography Casey O’Brien ’17 Peter Gleich Irene O’Neill, CSJ ’72 Mary Jo Groeller Heidi Stefanyshyn-Piper ’80 KEA Photography Louie McGee ’19

Connect with Us!

We have great news to share. Stay connected with the school! Be proud of what is happening at CDH!

c-dh.org twitter.com/@CDHraiders

facebook.com/CDHAdvancementandAlumni

46 TRADITIONS // c-dh.org

Bits of History Do you have high school memorabilia that need a new home? We are always willing to take old yearbooks, dance bids, buttons, diplomas, rings and other items that may be collecting dust in your house. Contact Peggy Gilligan at pgilligan@c-dh.org or call 651-696-3319 Email News If you are currently NOT receiving emails from CDH and would like to re-subscribe, please go to our website: c-dh.org > Advancement and Alumni > Update Your Information. Update Your Info

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facebook.com/CretinDerham Hall

Please address your letter to: Traditions Cretin-Derham Hall 550 South Albert Street St. Paul, MN 55116 or visit our website at c-dh.org. Traditions Traditions is published semi-annually by the Advancement Office. In an effort to save postage and reduce multiple pieces to one address, we have attempted to mail one piece per household. We would appreciate it if you would share this publication with other alumni in your family.

// Credits

Traditions welcomes letters related to subjects in the magazine. Letters of 250 words or less are preferred. We reserve the right to edit letters whenever necessary.

c-dh.org

If this publication is addressed to a family member who no longer lives with you, please notify the Advancement Office at 651-696-3318, or email to pschafer@c-dh.org.


Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds, and the teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do His work and build up the church, the body of Christ. — EPHESIANS 4:11

Spring melting outside the new main entrance of the school and the Lentsch Forum.


NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

Cretin-Derham Hall 550 S. Albert St. St. Paul, MN 55116

PAID

TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT NO. 155

Still Accepting Applications! Call today to schedule a tour — 651-696-3301 Or visit us at c-dh.org/admissions

Cretin-Derham Hall

550 South Albert St., St. Paul, MN 55116 Admissions: 651-696-3301 Web: c-dh.org/admissions @CretinDerhamHall

@CDHraiders (School)

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