The Counselor | 2018

The Counselor A XAVERIAN BROTHERS SPONSORED SCHOOL | OLGCHS.ORG | 2018

One Community: One Home Celebrating 60 Years

1958-2018

60 Reasons Why…

Xaverian Tradition

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“Knowing our mission and living it helps our students determine their path in life.”

Defining a Class

“History became frozen in time by such dramatic events and the Good Counsel graduates of these years probably experienced a sort of mystic bonding.”

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

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Legacy

“While I was certainly pleased with the education I received there, Good Counsel is so much more than an academic institution.”

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Distinguished Alumni

Tim Welsh

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“I want to disrupt how we look at wealth management.”

▲ Class of 2018 students reflect and pray during their graduation mass.

“Even alone, a loving man can make a difference.”

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Table of Contents

President’s Message A publication of OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL HIGH SCHOOL A Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School

a message from our president

17301 Old Vic Boulevard, Olney, Md. 20832 240.283.3200 | olgchs.org

Why I Love

Our Lady of Good Counsel” Dear Friends: Happy Birthday to us!

Our doors opened on September 8, 1958. Led by founding principal Brother Mark McCarthy, 12 Xaverian Brothers and 275 students took the first steps of our 60year journey as Our Lady of Good Counsel High School.

There’s no doubting the school today is a very different place than it was in September 1958. We started to admit females in 1988. We moved from Georgia Avenue in Wheaton to Old Vic Boulevard in Olney in 2007. What has not changed is the distinctive worth of a Good Counsel education.

To celebrate turning 60, we have chosen to honor our Xaverian heritage with the theme, One Community: One Home. The theme is a recognition that despite the changes of the past 60 years, we remain one school. Of our many strengths, none is more valued than our sense of community.

From the outset, the Brothers were committed to maintaining high academic standards, bonding students to the school and one another, and instilling the values of simplicity, humility, compassion, zeal, and trust. Today, more than 100 dedicated teachers strive daily to maintain the proud tradition of excellence in our students. Our alumni, now numbering almost 10,000, know the refrain we continue to share with students: “The loving, good person, even alone, can make a difference.”

Our future is bright. We are the largest private high school in the State of Maryland, the only one with a home built entirely in the 21st Century. Our campus is rich in the symbolism of our Catholic faith. To this day,

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

Junior Retreat remains one of the most impactful experiences of four years. We have a lofty reputation for the excellence of flagship programs in Ryken Studies, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, and STEM. Also well-known are the deep commitment our students have to service at home and overseas, the national prominence of our many programs in athletics and the fine arts, and our push to become a school with a global footprint.

“The loving, good person, even alone, can make a difference.”

As you read this special edition of The Counselor, including “60 Things We Love About GC,” may you join me in giving thanks to God for all who have come before and all that has been accomplished during our six decades as Our Lady of Good Counsel High School.

Go Falcons!

Paul G. Barker, Ed.D. President PS: We hope you will come back to celebrate with us on September 7th!

PRESIDENT Paul G. Barker, Ed.D. PRINCIPAL Tom Campbell ’93 2018-19 BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR | Mr. Philip J. Mantua ’76 VICE CHAIR | Dr. Luther Ampey, III PRESIDENT | Paul G. Barker, Ed. D. Mr. Ralph Boyd, Jr. Mr. Patrick Caulfield Br. Stephen Comeau, CFX Mr. Victor Del Pino ’94 Dr. Nancy DeNicola Mr. Michael Devlin ’77 Mr. Thomas F. Fay Dr. Edward Hardiman Dr. David L. Higgins ’75 Dr. Ronald Hill ’72 Rev. Robert B. Lawton, S.J. ’65 Mr. Roger Mason, Jr. ’99 Mr. Kevin McCormack ’86 Mrs. Rebecca Neff Mr. Robert Ramin Mr. Stephen Richter ’75 Mr. William Riley, Jr. ’68 Ms. Michelle Rubie-Smith Dr. Lori Scialabba Mrs. Cynthia M. Van Horn Mr. Michael W. Welch EDITOR Jane Bornhorst GRAPHIC DESIGN Lori Fields ADVANCEMENT OFFICE STAFF: Chief Advancement Officer Julie Potter Director of Alumni Relations Collin DeWitt Director of Corporate, Foundation, and Donor Relations Savannah Renehan Director of Marketing and Communications Cheryl Plainte Director of the Fund for Good Counsel Vacant Digital Content and Social Media Coordinator Paul “Mac” Kennedy Advancement Manager Debbie McKinney President’s Assistant Jeanette McCarthy Digital Design and Web Manager Erica Tituana Campaign Manager Catie Brown ’13 Contributing Photographers Joe Cabigas ’82 | David Radford Submit comments, contributions, and address updates to etituana@olgchs.org .

5-41: 60 Reasons Why We Love Our Lady of Good Counsel

42-47: Alumni Reunion Weekend 50th Reunion 2018 Distinguished Alumnus 2018 Athletic Hall of Fame 2nd Annual Day of Giving

48-52 Advancement SFX Society Dinner 2017-2018 Corporate Sponsors Financial Aid and Scholarship GC by the Numbers Spotlight

53 Class Notes 59 Important Dates 60 In Memoriam Anniversary 61 60th Signature Events

60 Reasons Why‌

60 Reasons Why‌

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Our Beautiful Campus

Why We Love

Reasons

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Our Lady of Good Counsel

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

From our humble beginnings on the Wheaton Campus, where we excelled and grew for 48.5 years, to our new home on the expansive Olney Campus, Good Counsel has always had a proud story to tell.

To celebrate our 60th anniversary, join us as we reflect on 60 things we love most about Good Counsel.

The decision to build a new facility for GC in Olney, Maryland, was based on the need for more space in order to better serve our growing student body.

In 2007, the new campus was opened thanks to the dedication of President Art Raimo, the building committee, and many generous donors.

County areas. The centerpiece continued to be the chapel, as it had been on the Wheaton Campus. State of the art technology, extra field space, increased laboratories, larger classrooms, and tranquil outdoor spaces welcomed our students, teachers, and staff and served as a wonderful new home for the entire school community.

Convenient to both Washington and Baltimore, the new campus was ideally located and filled a void of Catholic high schools in the Northern Montgomery and Western Howard

Looking back in this hallmark year for Good Counsel, we share fond memories of our time in Wheaton, and are thankful for all that the Olney Campus provides.

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60 Reasons Why…

60 Reasons Why…

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MISSION

RETREATS

CAMP GOOD COUNSEL

Our mission is “We inspire our students to excel, serve, and love.”

At Junior Retreat, all attending know, “What happens at Junior Retreat stays at Junior Retreat.” Personal spiritual growth, poignant moments with peers, memories to last a lifetime, and so much fun. GC retreats provide all of this, marking a time in students’ lives when there is so much to celebrate, and even more on the horizon.

Each summer, dozens of GC students volunteer to work one-on-one with youngsters from low-income families at Camp Good Counsel.

Swimming, crafts, sports, art, field trips, music, and more make up four weeks of unforgettable fun for the volunteers from GC and the children who attend camp. Founded in the 1970s as a way to help adults with mental disabilities, the camp has evolved to become what it is today - a fun-filled opportunity for growth and memory building for everyone involved, and an opportunity for service for our students.

3 FOREVER A FALCON, FOREVER FRIENDS Each fall, alumni from around the country return to campus to celebrate their reunions, looking through old yearbooks, reconnecting with friends, sharing business contacts, and reliving memories. This year GC will launch the Golden Falcon Club, which celebrates those graduates celebrating their 50th reunion. We hope to see many alumni and friends this fall!

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

5 MURALS “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”

– Thomas Merton Murals have always provided an inspiring backdrop for life at Good Counsel. At the Wheaton Campus, student artwork danced along the academic corridors, and a colorful mural greets students in the new student lounge in Olney.

Additionally, the Donor Wall, a 62-foot-long tile mural recognizing the donors to the Performing Arts Center, incorporates GC’s values and history and inspires our alumni to stay connected and passionate about our school.

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60 Reasons Why…

60 Reasons Why…

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The Xaverian Tradition

In Harmony Small Things Grow Brother Barry, 1975

Brother Charles, 1974

Good Counsel is tied to the history of the Congregation of Saint Francis Xavier, whose motto we live by: “In harmony small things grow.”

Today, the Brothers sponsor college preparatory high schools in Connecticut, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, and New York,

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While the Brothers no longer fill the school like they used to, we still feel a tangible connection to their teachings and are guided by their founding principles which formed our school and hold us to a high standard.

Remembering the Early Brothers In the beginning, most of the Good Counsel faculty were Xaverian Brothers. Many of them stand out in our memories and in stories as being legends in their day, in and out of the classroom.

We are grateful for all they did for GC.

Brother Mark

When the Xaverian Brothers established Our Lady of Good Counsel in 1958, they started an institution that not only educated its students and prepared them to do great things in the world, but also instilled in them the values that bring our alumni and students great success: Zeal, Simplicity, Humility, Compassion, and Trust.

Chair of the Religion Department and a Xaverian Brothers Associate. “We teach the Xaverian way every day. Knowing our mission and living it helps our students determine their path in life, and keeps them connected here.”

Brother Ivo

Brother Greg

as well as Belgium, Kenya, and Zaire. They first opened schools in the United States at Louisville, Kentucky over 150 years ago. But what does it mean to be Xaverian?

Brothers Anthony, Bonaventure, John, with Paul Sarbanes

traditions and experiences within our school.

“If you allow yourself to be formed by God through the common, ordinary, unspectacular flow of everyday life,” reads the Fundamental Principles of the Brothers, “you will gradually experience a liberation and a freedom never before imagined.”

“Many of our graduates are very successful because of their technical, functional, intellectual knowledge, but also because of the five Xaverian values, and by the way we treat people,” says Bob Clark ’66. “That has a big impact. People will remember being treated right, and when they get into power, they in turn treat people fairly, and the Good Counsel legacy grows.”

At Good Counsel, we keep these ideals in mind each day as we pursue a path of learning and growth, while being mindful of the five Xaverian values. Over the past 60 years, this foundation has helped form the

The full development of each individual is at the core of a Xaverian education. “Simplicity, solidarity and living in community—the characteristics of the Xaverians—is very evident in our community,” says Peg Weidner,

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

Brother Mark (McCarthy), the school’s first principal, was an articulate gentleman who was admired by both parents and students.

Brother Mark has an award named for him, which is given each year to the senior who embodies the greatness of Great Counsel. It is the most distinguished award at graduation.

Brother Alexander was a literary master who taught boys how to appreciate Greek comedies and tragedies. He also taught French. The class of 1966 dedicated their yearbook to him.

What it Means To Be Xaverian Falling in love with the service of God.

Remembering the five Xaverian values: living simply, remaining humble, showing compassion, being zealous in actions, and trusting in God and humanity.

Being approachable and available.

Brother Borromeo was beloved by all of the students for his great kindness. He was a scratch golfer and Latin instructor who cared about his students and focused on guiding them in their studies and in life.

Standing in solidarity with those who get pushed to the margins.

Brother Charles, religion teacher and the prefect for the GC cafeteria, had served as the busboy for Notre Dame Head Football Coach Knute Rockne and the other coaches in 1929 and 1930 when he was a student there. The Notre Dame football team won the National Championship during those two years, going undefeated just before Rockne’s death in 1931.

Seeking the harmony of a life that balances service and prayer.

Brother Eudes (Martin O’Toole) was an outstanding chemistry instructor. He was highly competent and ensured that his students studied. Alumni from that era

Paying attention to what goes on in the common, the ordinary, and the everyday.

describe him as demanding but fair. In later years, he coached swimming for St. Xavier High School in Kentucky and was famous for a long-standing undefeated record, and for holding three state high school swimming records for over 60 years.

Brother Giles was a falconer whose bird, Rusty, became the original falcon mascot.

Brother Ivo (Richard Hastings) is described by many as being an impressive physical specimen, young, well-built and athletic. He taught math and science, served as a mentor and coach, and was the school groundskeeper.

The football field was named for him, and he often drove teams to games on the bus.

Students admired him and his strength. He would often impress his classes by doing pullups on door frames and holding on to chalk rails and pushing his body up until it was parallel to the floor.

Brother Meric was small in stature, but a giant in intellect. Students sought his friendship and wanted to learn from him.

A master of languages, he was fluent in 12 tongues including Hebrew and Aramaic.

Brother Meric coached the debate team to a national championship in New York City. He commanded much respect from the students.

Brother Remigius O’Lone, an expressive and dramatic classroom teacher, was fixated on developing intellectuals. Once an enthusiastic head of the Social Studies Department, he was known in the 1970s for socializing with students in the cafeteria and hallways with a childlike playfulness, and for his ever-present school spirit.

“What we learned from the Brothers is, it’s not just what we are, it’s who we are.” Bob Clark says.

Clark credits the original Brothers (from 1958-66) for much of his career success.

“The way the Brothers conducted themselves imposed a strong character into their students,” he says. “They’re legends.

They were just phenomenal.”

60 Reasons Why…

60 Reasons Why…

China South Korea

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Austria

EXCELLENCE Good Counsel offers several programs of excellence that augment our students’ college preparatory education.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Our school offers one of the best programs available for higher-achieving students, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. GC was one of the first high schools in the nation to implement IB into its academic program. IB is a two-year college preparatory curriculum for students who desire rigor across their academic program. Those who are accepted into the program study six subject areas; do an original piece of research; and reflect upon their activities, athletics, and service as part of their education. In addition, students participate in an interdisciplinary seminar.

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Turkey

STEM Program Our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Program introduces students to the field of engineering through a nationwide, hands-on, project-based curriculum that draws upon their working knowledge of math and science. Our curriculum employs the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) model, and we were recently recognized as a Distinguished School in the PLTW program – one of very few schools and only private high school in the area. Once selected into the program, students take a series of engineering courses that span their four years at Good Counsel. The STEM program emphasizes real-world applications and exposes students to potential STEM career paths by partnering with local engineering companies.

Each STEM class has the opportunity to see engineering in action outside of the school building.

Advanced Placement Program

Ryken Studies Program

Our Lady of Good Counsel offers many Advanced Placement (AP) courses, under the guidance of the Advanced Placement Board, a Division of the College Board. These classes are college-level courses taught in high school. AP allows a student to participate in advanced courses in a particular area or areas of interest or skill to enhance their college preparation.

The popular Ryken Program was implemented as part of Good Counsel’s commitment to serving students with a wide range of needs. The college prep program is designed to help highly motivated students diagnosed with mild learning differences to succeed in their core courses. Students in both the IB and AP programs have also benefitted from the Ryken Program. This highly respected program prepares students with wide ranging needs for success in college and beyond.

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

BRAZIL

Cayman Islands

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Liberia India Vietnam IRAN

GOING GLOBAL Established in 2014, our Global Program celebrated its first graduating class in 2018.

We have had international students coming from these countries.

FRANCE

Germany

MEXICO

To provide our students with experiences to meet educational goals as global citizens, we have had exchange programs with the following countries:

FRANCE

Austria New Zealand

Australia Spain 11

60 Reasons Why…

60 Reasons Why…

10 ICONIC LOCATIONS The old courtyard at Wheaton was a beloved spot for our students and one that we duplicated at the Olney campus. We are fortunate to enjoy a number of locations for prayer and reflection, from the Grotto to the Cocozella Cross to our chapel. We also have statues of several saints on campus: St. Katherine Drexel, who represents compassion; St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe, who embodies zeal; St. Martin, who was committed to service; St. Juan Diego, who lived with humility; Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who exemplifies simplicity in her life; and The Holy Family, representing trust. Upon entering GC, freshman are taken on a guided meditation walking tour of these statues so they may pray and reflect while being introduced to the Xaverian values.

11 UNSUNG HEROES Behind the scenes, many dedicated people make our school run. We enjoy beautiful school grounds thanks to John Poulos ’77 and his staff. Our maintenance staff, including Jorge and Mario Gonzalez, Jorge Maravilla, and Walter Tombini keep the gears in motion so that everything runs smoothly. We are deeply thankful for all that they do.

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

12 FOOD Today’s lunches at Good Counsel are gourmet spreads provided by SAGE Dining Services, which uses fresh, local, wholesome ingredients to create delicious food. Many of us remember the days of the Wheaton Campus, when wonderful cafeteria staff served up traditional school lunches from chicken patties to Ginger’s grilled cheese and tomato soup.

Hot Shoppes, Little Tavern, Chicken Basket, Roy Rogers, and Barnaby’s are names that bring to mind post-game hangouts with friends, complete with shakes and fries. One thing remains the same - we all like to eat!

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Today, we know our school news source as The Talon. Its tradition of excellent reporting has continued through the years, and this past school year, it became an online news site - gctalon.org. Alum Kevin In 1958, Good Counsel’s first Blackistone ’77, a longtime school newspaper was named the national sports columnist and Counselor. Later, a second paper professor at the University called The Talon was created, of Maryland’s Philip Merrill enjoying its “glory days” under College of Journalism, served as news editor Ralph Chite from a valued resource and mentor for 1973-75. Eventually a third these rising journalists during the publication, the Falcon News, rebirth of The Talon. Thanks to was established. The school the hard work of many students administration decided all three and moderator Mrs. Tonia Essig, should be merged in 1981. The The Talon is a dynamic online paper was called Falcon News; it news source offering students won two of three top awards in the firsthand experience in the craft first annual Catholic Newspaper of journalism to share contest sponsored by the Catholic all things Good Counsel with Standard the following year. our community.

NEWS

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60 Reasons Why…

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PERFORMING ARTS

GRADUATION

For years, the Good Counsel Theatre Company (GCTC) had to mount productions in gymnasiums, on tables pushed together in dining halls, in hallways, and at other schools. Then, beginning in 1990 with Guys and Dolls, productions were held in the Rafferty Center at the Wheaton campus. Now, with our very own 660-seat Performing Arts Center, replete with a set design shop, a costume shop, and an additional black box theater, GCTC is able to create theatrical performances that delight, move, and awe packed audiences right here at home.

For six decades, graduation has marked the end of students’ high school careers at Good Counsel.

In 2004, the first Baccalaureate Mass was held for graduation at the National Shrine on the Catholic University campus. Whether it was held at St. John the Evangelist Church (1960s), Constitution Hall (from 1979-94), or at the Shady Grove Music Fair in the early days, graduation at Our Lady of Good Counsel has always been an occasion for celebration. It is a culmination and celebration of four years of hard work, good times, and growth, and a time to reflect on all that students have achieved and the promise of what is to come.

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

Upon entering Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, each student is challenged with five specific goals: Academic Accomplishment, Knowledge and Growth in the Catholic Faith, Service, Leadership, and Christian Conduct.

Academic Accomplishment is measured by the scholastic requirements for graduation and

personalized teacher-student contact. We take great pride in the quality of all of our programs, and in the breadth and depth of education those programs create for Good Counsel students. With this foundation, GC students achieve success in their high school academic careers and beyond, with 99% of 2018 graduates attending college after graduation.

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60 Reasons Why…

60 Reasons Why…

Defining A Class

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by Richard Burns

Everybody needs a place to rest

Everybody wants to have a home Don’t make no difference what nobody says Ain’t nobody like to be alone.

­— Bruce Springsteen, “Hungry Heart” Springsteen’s lyrics capture the need to identify with something larger than oneself or to discover some bond that unites us with others.

For many, this need draws us back to high school and the individuals, events, and experiences that defined us, even decades after graduation.

After sixty years, institutions, much like individuals, often review their past and sort out what memories should be preserved and passed on to posterity. The challenge in this historical process is to sift through a mass of past data and to decide to memorialize one event or one person, rather than others. This process is subjective, but unavoidable. Without meaning to disrespect anyone or anything, let me face the common question that invariably arises at graduations and reunions—how can a particular class be defined?

Sometimes a class is defined by being the first or the last to share a special experience. The late Dr. Joe Fortuna, one of eight members of the first class to graduate from Good Counsel (1961), once conveyed to me his excitement in being a trailblazer who set the road for subsequent classes to follow.

Conversely, members of the class of 2006, the last to graduate from Wheaton, recount breaking into the recently closed school to claim some mementos before construction teams leveled the building.

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

The last exclusively male class (1989) has lamented the loss of a distinctive male culture, while the first class with female graduates (1990) has taken pride in the opportunity to create a new Good Counsel culture. The classes of 1988 and 1989 might well identify with being the last to experience the charisma of Brother (now Mr.) Barry Fitzpatrick and chaplain Fr. Maury O’Connell, both of whom helped shape the very successful junior retreat program.

Meanwhile, the class of 2017 was the first to reap the benefits of the long anticipated Performing Arts Center, highlighted by an outstanding performance of the play Titantic. Surely, other classes recall having a distinctive experience at Good Counsel.

A second way to define a class is by association with historical events. I can sense the excitement of the class of 1960, with a high percentage of Irish Catholics, as they reminisce about the significance of John Kennedy’s presidential election. Or imagine the tears and confusion a few years later when students tried to cope with Kennedy’s assassination.

Other events, such as the Cuban Missile Crisis (1962), the DC riots after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. (1968), President Nixon’s fall from power (1973), the 9-11 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon (2001),

Al Checchi ’66 receives the Distinguished Alumni Award from Good Counsel’s President Dr. Paul Barker in 2012

the DC Sniper (2002), and the elections of Barack Obama (2008) and Donald Trump (2016) certainly helped define those classes. History became frozen in time by such dramatic events and the Good Counsel graduates of these years probably experienced a sort of mystic bonding with what was happening to their country at a particular moment in time.

A third way to define a class is through association with a significant member. Thus, 1966 graduates might well identify themselves through association with Al Checchi (’66), who graduated from Harvard, become President of Northwest Airlines and later campaigned to be Governor of California. Checchi has given much back to Good Counsel and played a major role in the funding of the Performing Arts Center in Olney as well as the Auxiliary Gym in Wheaton.

Graduates from 1988 may reflect upon a great era of Good Counsel basketball. Led by future NBA star and union representative Roger Mason Jr., GC teams were nationally-ranked and the Wheaton gym was full of noise and excitement with fans sometimes being turned away at the door. Roger has also given back by running summer programs for youth at the school and remains the polite and caring person I first met years ago.

Graduates from 2009-2012 were treated to a dominant era of GC Football, during which the squad coached by Bob Milloy won four

Bob Milloy led GC football from 2007-2017

straight league championships, achieved the top area high school ranking by the Washington Post, and appeared several times on featured games televised on ESPN. Along with such distinguished alumni, there have been a number of deaths that helped to define a class, none more so than Becca Lilly of the class of 1998. Becca had battled brain cancer through her years at Good Counsel and, by the spring of her junior year, Becca and her family were reconciled to accepting her death. The Post ran a multi-part story about Becca’s final months and her memorial service in the school gym stood out as an impressive example of the lessons Becca offered our community—not only how to face death with dignity, but also how to make the most of the opportunities we are given.

A final way in which some seniors have left their mark on Good Counsel has been through pranks in their closing weeks of high school. The most talked about prank took place when members of the class of 1985 took apart and then reassembled two Volkswagens in the school library.

But there have been many other bizarre pranks, including moving the giant statue of Bob’s Big Boy from the Wheaton restaurant to the school campus, exchanging roles (and uniforms) with the girls from Holy Cross, setting loose a score of young chicks in the band room, and moving every student desk onto the science wing roof.

A version of this article traces back to 1991 and became a creative way for me to end the school year. In 1998, it was a feature talk on the senior retreat, with Springsteen’s music helping to capture each year at Good Counsel. Normally seniors volunteered specific memories of their time at Good Counsel.

Think back to the difficult challenges of being a freshman in a new environment.

Then think about how you persevered and grew into adulthood. Good Counsel probably played some role in this process and some of you have formed a special bond with the school. Maybe you connect through a strange prank, a special classmate, a historical event or a way your class was the first or the last to do something of significance. The Good Counsel experience means many different things to different people, but I sincerely hope your high school years have left you with something worthwhile to hold onto.

Roger Mason, Jr. ’99 with the Washington Wizards.

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60 Reasons Why…

18 FALCON Brother Giles, a great falconer, introduced Rusty as the first falcon to serve as GC’s mascot. Rusty has since retired and lives in the Alumni hallway.

Our mascot has evolved through the years to the brand new Falcon funded by parents, alumni and friends at this past year’s Grand Celebration live fundraising appeal. Throughout all its changes, the spirit of the falcon, as one of the world’s fastest, strongest and certainly one of the most intelligent birds, has never wavered at Good Counsel.

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60 Reasons Why…

GRAND CELEBRATION This year, Good Counsel celebrated thirty years of its annual Grand Celebration. The event has been held each spring since 1989, when a $15 ticket garnered admission to a “Night in Monte Carlo.” Volunteers spend many months planning the occasion, which is the signature event on the Good Counsel fundraising calendar. This year, the money brought in funded new band uniforms, a new Falcon mascot, and STEM lab equipment. Attendees at the celebration have the opportunity to socialize with friends, bid on silent auction items, support our students through a live appeal, dance, and make lasting memories.

Themes for the celebration have included Celtic, Hollywood Nights, il Carnevale, Viva Las Vegas, It’s a Jungle Out There, Bon Voyage: Setting Sail for Olney, and this year’s theme, Back to the 80s! Mark Saturday, March 2, 2019 on your calendars…the 31st Grand Celebration in Good Counsel’s 60th Anniversary year is coming – think diamonds!

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20 PARTIES From the Grand Celebration to the 5th Quarter celebrations to the Bull Roast, we know how to have a good time!

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

Dresses, corsages, and limos. Popular music, colored lights, bowls of punch. For upperclassmen, prom is an unforgettable night with friends that creates lifelong memories.

The first prom at Good Counsel took place in the gym at Wheaton on a special evening in May 1961.

It was a smashing success, as was the first Post-Prom in 1994, held at the Aspen Hill Racquet Club from 1-5am. The tradition of post-prom continues today in Olney, with fun activities like moon bounces, obstacles courses, and games giving everyone a good and safe after-party.

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CHAMPIONSHIPS

CO-ED

Everybody loves a champion. Titles and trophies earned over the years fill our display cases.

Collaboration, teamwork, dedication, and team spirit combine to bring our school together as we celebrate every win and agonize over every defeat. Here’s to adding more championships in the years to come!

For our first 30 years, GC was an all-male school. It was a model that worked well. But as the world changed, so did our school, and in 1988, the first female students were admitted to GC. That first year, 280 female students enrolled, and young men and women have been learning side-by-side in our classrooms ever since.

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60 Reasons Why…

Boys’ Championships

In the face of tragedy, students and members of the GC community have a long history of rallying together to show support whether through prayer services, named scholarships, athletic seasons dedicated to the memory of a lost Falcon, or dance-a-thons. As Dr. Barker said at a prayer service following the tragic loss of Cashen Bohlander at the age of 16 in 2016, “Going forward, may our actions – in how we choose to play and learn – contribute each day to building

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

a better community here at Good Counsel.” Falcons support Falcons, and nowhere is that more evident than in times of tragedy and loss.

1970 1972 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2006 2007 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Cross Country Baseball Cross Country, Swimming Metros, Golf Soccer, Cross Country, Wrestling, Swimming Metros, Track, Golf Cross Country, Wrestling, Track Soccer, Cross Country, Wrestling, Track Soccer, Wrestling, Swimming Metros, Track, Sr. Softball Wrestling, Swimming Metros Wrestling, Swimming Metros, Track, Golf Cross Country, Swimming Metros, Track Swimming Metros, Track Soccer, Track Baseball Golf Soccer, Swimming Metros, Sr. Softball Sr. Softball Swimming Metros, Baseball, Golf Cross Country Swimming Metros, Golf Sr. Softball Football, Sr. Softball Football, Sr. Softball Swimming WMPSSDL, Ice Hockey, Sr. Softball Cross Country Cross Country, Sr. Softball Cross Country, Tennis Cross Country, Cross Country, Ice Hockey Baseball Cross Country Football Football, Baseball Football, Cross Country, Wrestling Football Cross Country, Wrestling, Ice Hockey, Rugby Wrestling, Cross Country Wrestling, Cross Country Wrestling, Cross Country Track Tennis

Good Counsel Championships in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference Girls’ Championships 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Cross Country, Track Swimming Metros, Track Swimming WMPSSDL, Track Volleyball, Swimming WMPSSDL Cross Country, Swimming WMPSSDL Soccer, Volleyball, Swimming WMPSSDL Soccer, Cross Country, Tennis, Basketball, Basketball City Title, Softball, Track Cross Country, Tennis, Track Cross Country, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL, Track Soccer, Cross Country, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL, Track Soccer, Cross Country, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL Soccer, Cross Country, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL, Poms Soccer, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL, Lacrosse Cross Country, Swimming Metros, Softball Cross Country, Swimming Metros, Track, Cheerleading Field Hockey, Swimming Metros, Lacrosse, Track, Cheerleading Field Hockey, Basketball, Basketball City Title, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL, Lacrosse, Cheerleading Cross Country, Volleyball, Basketball, Basketball City Title, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL, Lacrosse, Cheerleading Volleyball, Volleyball City Title, Field Hockey, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL, Lacrosse Volleyball, Volleyball City Title, Swimming Metros, Swimming WMPSSDL, Lacrosse, Cheerleading Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Swimming WMPSSDL, Lacrosse Soccer, Volleyball, Lacrosse Volleyball, Swimming WMPSSDL, Lacrosse Soccer, Basketball, Swimming WMPSSDL Soccer, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Poms Soccer, Field Hockey Soccer Tennis Tennis

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SERVICE

HONORS

A commitment to service is one of the primary tenets of a Good Counsel education. In addition to completing a required number of service hours each year, students contribute compassionately to our school community, local communities, and world communities through many activities sponsored by classes, clubs, teams, and the Campus Ministry Office.

Each year during graduation, members of our student community are honored for their outstanding service, academic achievement, contributions, and embodiment of the spirit of our school. The last award presented is the Brother Mark Award, named for GC’s first principal, is awarded each year to the senior who best exemplifies the greatness of Great Counsel. It is our most distinguished award.

CAMPUS MINISTRY

SPRING CHORUS AND BAND TRIPS

Students travel internationally on mission trips to help communities in places like Haiti, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic. Students help communities in need here at home as well. After Hurricane Sandy in 2013, students traveled to New York to help rebuild. Teams build houses with Habitat for Humanity in places like Charlottesville, Va. and in the Appalachian Mountains in Tennessee. This year, each senior completed 40 hours of service sharing impactful experience to give back to society and help those who are less fortunate.

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

27 MARCHING BAND This year, for the first time in 20 years, thanks to the generosity of donors to our Funds for Our Falcons at the Grand Celebration, GC’s marching band will don brand new uniforms.

The only marching band in the WCAC, the “Pride of GC,” will unveil its new look in October.

Campus Ministry is an integral part of student life at GC. Part of the mission of Xaverian Brotherssponsored schools includes educating students “in Gospel values and the social teaching of the Church so that they are capable of making informed judgments about social issues, most especially the need for peace and nonviolence.” Our Campus Ministry program integrates this mission and the Catholic identity into day-today life through four pillars: Word and Worship, Retreat, Leadership Formation, and Service.

GC’s concert ensembles and chorus have been embarking on trips since 1982. Together, our talented musicians and singers travel to compete in places like Chicago, Atlanta, New York, Orlando, Nashville, and the Bahamas.They meet other students from across the nation, explore different cultures and sites, and spread GC school spirit. This past spring, students had the honor of performing in front of a sold-out audience at historic Carnegie Hall in New York!

Each year, campus ministry teams take service trips to El Salvador and Haiti, and also travel to various locations like Camden, NJ. In this way, students contribute positively to communities in need and have a tangible, long-lasting impact.

Campus Ministry is coordinated by a Chaplain, a Director, and three Associate Campus Ministers.

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30 LEADERSHIP

Paul Barker

Outstanding leadership has always been an integral element of a Good Counsel education. From Brother Mark, who served as the first principal from 1958-64, to Brother Marcus (1964-66), Brother Borromeo and Brother Bonaventure in the 60s and 70s, Barry Fitzpatrick in the early 80s, and Michael Murphy, the first lay principal in 1986, the head of the school is essential to GC’s success.

In February of 1993, the PresidentPrincipal administrative model was approved. The following fall, Michael Murphy took the reigns as the school’s first president, and Charles Dusterhoff was named principal. Art Raimo, known as “the titan” was the longest-serving president, from 1997-2011. Today, we are led by President Paul Barker (since 2011) and Principal Thomas Campbell ’93.

“The emergence of the president/ principal model is the clearest indicator that running a school is a very complex endeavor,” says President Barker. Administrators and the Board came to recognize that running the educational part of the school is one thing, but to run a non-profit, independent corporation is another. “The system had to evolve because it has become more complex than when Brother Mark founded the school. It’s a completely different world.”

One thing has remained the same: Great leadership is key, and the school community is thankful for all our leaders have done for Good Counsel students and alumni throughout the years.

Brother Bonaventure Scully

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

Brother Barry Fitzpatrick

Michael Murphy

TRADITIONS OF OLD From Gold Books to taking driver’s education classes with Art Iwanicki and Mark Jankovitz to senior pranks, alumni of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School have enjoyed the bond of shared traditions for the past 60 years.

Donkey Basketball. Senior trips to Disney World. Hanging out at the Essig Coffeehouse. Memories you take with you long after you leave campus; these special moments make you a Falcon.

Other fun occasions inspired students to get creative, such as celebrating Shakespeare’s Birthday, decorating the school, and holding a bonfire and rally for homecoming each fall. Mardi Gras celebrations in the hallways made the springtime a little more festive. In the 1960s, the male students enjoyed Las Vegas Nights, and alumni joined in the fun in later years with Thanksgiving Eve celebrations. The first annual Mothers’ Club Fashion Show also began in 1960 and became a long tradition.

Brother Barry

Brother Mark

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Art Raimo

In May of 1982, the first International Potluck-Spring Arts

Longtime teacher Dennis Essig plays guitar during class in 1984.

Festival took place in the cafeteria, where fun and delicious food were enjoyed by all. After that year, the arts festival continued in the senior courtyard for many springs. Within a few years, the event, co-sponsored by the Language Department, evolved into a popular Dessert Night-concert that lasted until the move to Olney.

Today our students enjoy the freedom of dress down days, the competitive nature of faculty/staff games, and the spirit of Friday night lights in the fall. Every alumnus has a favorite school tradition, and future GC students will surely have theirs.

Donkey Basketball in 1967

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32 SHARED PAST

November 22, 1963 Good Counsel joins the nation in mourning the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

1989-90 The school faculty and staff expands by 35 to accommodate the larger enrollment.

Fall 2018 Terrorism claims the lives of 43 alumni from five CFX/XBSS schools and the wife of Tom Heidenberger ’65.

1988-89 First year of co-education; 280 females are enrolled.

2004

1968

1972

Following the assassination

Camp Good Counsel

2002-2003

of Martin Luther King, Jr.,

founded under the direction

riots occur across the nation.

of Bro. Gavin Murphy.

September 8, 1958

Marching band is formed.

Today, the band is known as “The Pride of GC.”

Good Counsel opens with 271 students, with 12 brothers and one layman on the faculty.

Good Counsel celebrates its 60th anniversary.

September 11, 2001

Fall classes and athletic schedules are impacted by sniper attacks in the area.

February 2010 Massive snowfall in the area dubbed “Snowmageddon” drops a total of 45 inches of snow in Olney, resulting in canceled classes.

May 2016 Performing Arts Center opens.

1993 1960-61

June 1990

“Falcons” is first used as

First females graduate.

school team nickname.

GC wins the National Blue Ribbon School Award (and

Spring 2018

again in 2002).

Grotto is dedicated and first international

1990-91 Metro rail arrives in Wheaton in the fall.

1961

class graduates.

January 1996 300 attend the dedication of the Steve Dean Memorial

First class of 14 graduates.

Media Center.

August 1964 Student Phil McDermott ’65 and a friend interview The Beatles in Atlantic City for the school newspaper.

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

April 24, 2005 Groundbreaking ceremony for the new campus in Olney is held.

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CLUBS

UNIFORMS

SPEECH AND DEBATE

SPIRIT

under Mr. Nesvig in 1964, and its members put on three plays that spring. Others were added over the years. John Cermak led an active Political Science Club in 1990. In the 1992-93 school year, GC added Since its beginning in 1958, Good Students for Life, the Service Club, Counsel has offered student clubs. and the Amnesty Club. The Key A means of interacting outside of the Club started hosting an Annual classroom, clubs also fulfill diverse Dinner for the Homeless in 1996. student interests, build important life Today, students can choose from skills, and help GC students to give 65 different clubs, ranging across back to the community. a diverse set of interests such as The original five clubs that students Bass Fishing, Pottery, and Robotics. could join were Photography, Students also have the opportunity Library, Auto, English, and Math. to create a new club if there is Drama Club was organized enough interest.

In the beginning, suit coats and ties were required for all Good Counsel students not only at school, but also at all social functions, and at many away games. The 1962 Gold Book states, “Students should come to school dressed as if they were working in an office.”

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CARL’S CORNER

LOVE AND MARRIAGE

INTRAMURALS

Favorite hangout spot Carl’s Corner provides students a place to relax and grab a snack after school.

A parent of two Good Counsel graduates, Carl Leverenz has run the concession stand for many years.

After 2018-19, Carl will retire, closing a chapter of our school’s history that none will soon forget.

Plenty of romances have bloomed in Good Counsel’s hallways once females were admitted, and the graduating classes from the 1990s on brag dozens of marriages. We love hearing the stories of the relationships and the resulting Falcon families.

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

The first principal of Good Counsel, Brother Mark McCarthy, had intended the school’s athletics program to include only an intramural program. Many Falcons enjoyed the opportunity to compete in intramurals, allowing for healthy camaraderie through recreational activity. Soon, however, he found there was a greater potential for athletic teams as his students were eager to compete.

The dress code at GC evolved over the years, especially when females enrolled. In 2000, long-sleeve golf shirts and “skorts” were introduced.

Four years later, girls were allowed to wear pants if desired, and shortsleeved shirts were added to the mix. Today, boys wear a blue oxford shirt with a tie or a long or shortsleeved golf shirt (with the school logo) and khaki pants, and girls wear school oxford or golf shirts with a kilt or khaki pants. Students put on their Good Counsel uniforms with pride and seniors have the privilege of wearing their new college gear during their spring semester.

The Good Counsel Speech and Debate team has enjoyed a long, successful history. In 1989, two students placed in the final round at the Speech and Debate Nationals. By 1992, the team had won its third WACFL title.

It also enjoyed many victories in the 2000s, sending 14 students to Nationals in Chicago in May of 2006, for example.

From Spirit Week to Homecoming and dress down days, the student body at Good Counsel loves to show our Falcon pride!

This May, the GC team competed in the National Catholic Forensic League tournament for high school teams. More than 30 GC students competed, and eight reached the final rounds of the competition, in several categories: Declamation, duo interpretation, oral interpretation, and original oratory.

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BONDS THAT LAST

LEGACY Charles Stanislav ’84 was the fourth of five boys in his family to attend Good Counsel. “I am still a very proud alumnus as I watch countless nieces and nephews follow in our footsteps,” he says. Family legacies always have been a tradition at Good Counsel, and they continue today, fueling a strong community.

A Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School strives to create an atmosphere in which relationships can grow and thrive. Those who work in a Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School are called to understand and live their role as ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ which they proclaim by their attitudes, actions, and manner of relating to others, especially their students. As a result, Good Counsel graduates often remain connected to faculty and staff who helped them throughout their years in school, long after they have left our halls.

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“While I was certainly pleased with the education I received there, Good Counsel is so much more than an academic institution,” Stanislav says. He believes the school’s success in producing exceptional graduates is due to GC’s focus on the development of each student’s character and core values.

Our robust scholarship program is a success thanks to alumni and friends who pay it forward and help the next generation of GC students. Kayla Hunt ’18, the recipient of the Rafael Dominguez scholarship, conveyed it best at a recent breakfast for all donors and scholarship recipients. “Your generosity has inspired me to give back to the community once I begin my career, so that I may make a difference in the lives of

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

other students at GC, the same way that you have made a difference in mine. Because of your efforts and donations, I am able to stand here as a proud Falcon and student of Our Lady of Good Counsel.”

Find out more about how to provide a scholarship to a deserving GC student by contacting Savannah Renehan at srenehan@olgchs.org or 240-283-3384.

from Good Counsel, including Charles’ sister, Lisa (Boyle) Bishai ’94; his brother, Hugh Boyle ’98; Melissa’s brothers, Joshua Fullenkamp ’96 and Nicholas Fullenkamp ’98; and her sister-in-law, Katie (Hass) Fullenkamp ’98. “I also have two cousins and a cousin-in-law who graduated from GC: Brian Marconi ’01, Steven Marconi ’03, and Jessica (Baumgartner) Marconi ’02,” she says.

“The Good Counsel community is a strong piece of our family’s foundation. Charles and I met at Good Counsel 20 years ago and the core values we learned there have carried over and influence the way we raise our children.” Boyle adds.

“We hope our children are able to attend Good Counsel!”

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“My high school experience helped me to develop my Christian values, a volunteer spirit, and a sense of pride for my family, school, and community,” he says. “This complemented and reinforced what my parents tried to instill in me and my siblings at home. Now, raising my own children, I try to choose similar educational experiences for them.”

Melissa (Fullenkamp) Boyle ’01 met her husband, Charles Boyle ’00, at Good Counsel when she was a freshman. Together, they have 10 family members that graduated

ALUMNI TEACHERS

Melissa (Fullenkamp) Boyle ’01, Charles Boyle ’00 and family.

Nearly 80 Good Counsel alumni have taught at our school.

This serves as a testament to the spirit of commitment that permeates the GC community and the connectedness that graduates of our school continue to feel after they have left our hallways.

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Distinguished Alumni

Chris Heck ’88 is President of the Philadelphia 76ers NBA Basketball team.

He remembers a keenly strong sense of community at GC. “It’s not about the individual, but it’s about the greater group of people. I believe that resonates in life as well as in the business community and the business that I’m in.” Heck says. “There were teachers and faculty members at Good Counsel that cared at a different level than anything I’ve been exposed to.”

Katie Liola ’97 enjoys competing

One of the most unique aspects of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School is that it boasts so many successful alumni, many of whom have achieved national and international renown. They remain connected to our school years after graduating.

Meet just a few of our distinguished Falcons…

in triathlons, and recently swam in the Great Chesapeake Bay Swim, a 4.4 mile swim across Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay.

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Billy Kappaz ’89

He hopes to attend his 30th reunion this fall to see old friends and visit campus. “Thirty years later, some of my closest friends are people I went to Good Counsel with,” Heck says. “Those connections don’t end.”

Katie Liola ’97 is the founder of private wealth management firm Concentric Private Wealth, which focuses on behavioral advice, helping clients realize what they truly wish to allocate their money toward in order to live their most fulfilling lives, and advising people at a crossroads in their careers. Liola speaks nationally on these topics and is in the process of writing a book about investing in oneself.

“I want to disrupt how we look at wealth management,” she says.

Liola served on Good Counsel’s Board for nearly ten years. The oldest of five siblings who all attended GC, she attributes much of her success today to her roots at Good Counsel.

Early in her career, she was asked by former President Art Raimo to join the Board, and former board chair Hank Deily ’72 encouraged her to serve as finance chair and investment chair. Despite her reservations about being inexperienced, they gave her the confidence to take on the challenge. The experience of having that vote of confidence in her was transformative, Liola says. As a result, she discovered a new skill set that is key to her work today.

Other positive influences on Liola were Field Hockey coach Carleen Knauf, who helped her to recognize her own talents when she was a junior at GC, and Mr. Burns and Mr. Seel, who fostered her love of history and

Chris Heck ’88

“Good Counsel gave me a tremendous appreciation that every individual is capable of achieving great results through hard work, teamwork, and unwavering faith.”

— Billy Kappaz ’89 literature. “The power that a teacher or a coach or a president of a school has on our kids makes such a powerful difference longterm. That’s a big reason why my heart is with Good Counsel,” Liola says.

Kyle Snyder ’13, the youngest Olympic gold medalist and the youngest World Champion in American wrestling history, credits Good Counsel with teaching him to challenge himself, develop strong relationships, and become a better leader.

“My Good Counsel education greatly improved my time management skills, gave me a better perspective on competition, and also strengthened my relationship with God. The foundation to my success was built during my time at the school,” Snyder says.

“I take great pride in being part of the Good Counsel community,” he adds. “It has been amazing watching the school grow through building enhancements and outdoor improvements. I plan on helping support continued growth and look forward to following the extraordinary graduates.”

In 2018, Snyder won his third straight individual NCAA title as a heavyweight, becoming the first three-time NCAA heavyweight champion in nearly 30 years.

“I truly believe Good Counsel is one of the best high schools in America. I loved my time there, and can say with confidence that it prepared me both academically and athletically to excel at the next level,” he says.

Billy Kappaz ’89 is President and CEO of The Dorado Group LLC, a private investor, owner, and operator of clean and reliable power generation projects. Prior to founding The Dorado Group, Kappaz was the President and COO of K&M Advisors LLC, where he led the development of numerous infrastructure projects around the world including the first ever private power projects in Colombia, Jordan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, and Senegal.

“Good Counsel gave me a tremendous appreciation that every individual is capable of achieving great results through hard work, teamwork, and unwavering faith,” Kappaz says. He feels the Xaverian Brothers’ motto “In Harmony Small Things Grow” has resonated with him throughout his life since graduating from GC. “I reflect on this powerful statement every time I have faced challenges in my business and personal life; and my greatest successes have come only after persevering through the most challenging of times.”

Kappaz praises Good Counsel for supporting young men and women of diverse backgrounds and varying needs. “Whether it be a stellar student athlete, an aspiring artist, or just a regular kid searching for his own way forward – like me – GC was there to give us confidence and support along our respective journeys,” he says.

While many private schools have struggled to survive and stay true the their mission, Kappaz says, Good Counsel is thriving today and seems to get better and better each year.

He adds, “Congratulations to the amazing faculty and staff who have given so much of themselves over the past 60 years to make Good Counsel a premier independent Catholic school and for improving the lives of thousands of men and women along the way!”

Kyle Snyder ’13

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GRANDPARENTS DAY

HIGH MORAL STANDARDS

LITERARY ARTS

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Good Counsel’s annual Grandparents Day is a wonderful tradition for students to showcase the school and their community to their beloved grandparents.

First held in 2007 for 250 members of the GC community, grandparents each year enjoy good food, classroom visitation, and musical performances, providing the perfect chance for students to spend one-on-one time with loved ones. This year’s Grandparents Day will be on Friday, November 16th.

Teaching students to know right from wrong is always important, but the way GC handles discipline has evolved over the years. In the early years at Good Counsel, JUG discipline was used, which was thought to stand for “Justice Under God,” but is actually roughly defined as “under the burden.” JUG usually involved a boy being assigned some sort of work duty after school, such as cleaning or campus maintenance.

It is undeniable that the Good Counsel community benefits immensely from the involvement of parents. Aside from logistically supporting their children while in high school, parents participate with the school in a variety of ways, including volunteerism, collaboration, and philanthropic support.

Good Counsel’s current Dean of Students Ana Lopez and Tom Arnold take a different approach.

They show “tough love” and are respected for enforcing rules and regulations with a firm hand and a kind spirit.

The Austringer is GC’s recently revived, student-run literary and arts magazine. It is a place where student creativity is explored and where their poems, stories, and artwork are published. This spring, The Austringer was brought back to life as an online magazine comprising the creative works of 20 students. The magazine staff celebrated the launch with a coffeehouse-style poetry reading in the library featuring live poetry readings by 30 students. Find out more at gcaustringer.org.

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

Under the direction of the Principal, the Parents’ Association serves as a liaison between faculty, staff, students, and parents/guardians. The group provides support to the school community whether through providing childcare for faculty and staff during the first week back for faculty and staff, offering an appreciation lunch and treats for faculty, and supporting events like prom.

school community, and providing service-oriented opportunities to allow parents to model Christian action and behavior for their children. GC Moms enjoy hosting social and service events such as Mothers’ Club Night Out, Christmas Boutique, and the Christmas Toy Drive/Decorating.

The efforts of the Mothers’ Club result in generous support for the school’s greatest needs.

The Father’s Club was resurrected in 2006-07 and strives to exemplify Xaverian values while engaging in Originally founded in 1959-60, social and service activities. Each year the Mother’s Club was reborn in 2005-06 under co-chairs Ann the Club hosts a BBQ for incoming freshman dads and sponsors service Dickman and Kathy Hill. Their mission is to promote fellowship activities such as the day of service at Triadelphia Recreation Area in and foster relations between Brookeville in 2012. This is another parents of Good Counsel important example of how GC students by offering social activities, sponsoring support and parents exemplify Xaverian values for their children. appreciation functions for the

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50 49 GOLF CLASSIC Each year, alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends come together to enjoy a day on the links while raising critical scholarship support for our students.

The 36th Annual Steve Dean Golf Classic is Monday, September 10, 2018 at Manor Country Club.

This tradition began 36 years ago when members of the Class of 1967 hosted a fundraiser to honor their beloved classmate, Steve Dean ’67, who lost his life to complications relating to cerebral palsy in 1976. The endowed Steve Dean Scholarship Fund supports one or more rising seniors, who like Steve, show a love of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School through their involvement in academic, social, and athletic programs. Faith Flaherty ’19 is the 2018 - 2019 recipient of the Steve Dean Scholarship.

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CULTURE & HERITAGE The endowed Steve Dean Scholarship is funded by the generous sponsors and golfers – like you. If you are interested in helping, please contact Savannah Renehan at srenehan@olgchs.org.

This year’s Classic, hosted at Manor Country Club in Rockville, Md., features two shotgun starts, beginning at 7 a.m., for our Community Partners, and at 1 p.m. for our alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends. The tournaments are scramble format, including lunch, beverages on the course, and a dinner reception at the course, with a silent auction.

Register online at olgchs.org or contact Collin DeWitt at cdewitt@ olgchs.org or (240) 283-3214.

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

A favorite GC tradition is Cultural Awareness Week, which evolved into a feast of food, videos, and demonstrations involving language clubs, the International Students Association, and the Black Students Union. Culture Days transitioned to Heritage Week in more recent years. This time affords students the opportunity to express and discuss their cultural heritage and learn about their classmates’ diverse backgrounds.

In today’s world, this has become more compelling than ever.

51 SCHEDULING This fall, Good Counsel’s schedule is changing from modular to block scheduling. This means more breaks for students throughout the day, and longer lunches and advisory/ resource time, which should lead to lower levels of stress for students and teachers. School administrators are confident it will lead to positive change for everyone at GC.

52 DONORS Generous contributors enable our school to thrive every day. We are humbled by their kindness and generosity. These contributions are vital to helping us meet the growing needs of our talented students, our future leaders.

A recent example of this generosity is the opening of the new Performing Arts Center thanks to a successful capital campaign that raised nearly $10 million in three years. This effort would not have been possible without strong board leadership and that of the campaign cochairs, Al ’66 and Kathy Checchi, and Dave ’75 and Lisa Higgins.

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LIFELONG NETWORKS

OPEN HOUSE

Good Counsel alumni hold onto their valuable connections with friends and former GC classmates long after graduation. These relationships are fostered through the years by reunions, nationwide alumni networking events, the Good Counsel Business Network, the alumni directory, and a common bond that only a fellow Falcon can understand.

55 SENIOR PRANKS

Each fall, Good Counsel opens its doors to prospective students and families. For several hours, prospective students are able to mingle and see all of what Good Counsel has to offer, meeting current students, learning about our various clubs and activities, interacting with coaches and teachers, enjoying performances by our band and choir, and hearing about our Ryken program, financial aid, and other areas of interest. On this day, the Good Counsel community truly comes together to showcase what we love about GC to approximately 1,500-2,000 guests. Mark your calendars if you have a rising 8th grader; this year’s Open House is set for Sunday, October 14 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

At the end of four years, seniors traditionally like to let off a little steam and leave their mark by doing something outrageous that will be remembered for years to come.

Pranks pulled by students on the There’s no better feeling than brink of graduation have ranged finding longtime maintenance man from gluing locks shut to painting Mario Gonzales in the hallway when you come back to GC for a visit. The doors and parking VWs in the library beloved 64 year-old fixture at Good (with the principal’s blessing in 1985).

Counsel always has a smile on his Recently, the seniors edited the school website, much to everyone’s surprise! face and time for a chat.

MARIO

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57 Falcons A Tale of

Three Early

To add drama to this situation, Dave’s college of choice made admission dependent on scoring a 3 on this A.P. exam. Sensitive to this situation, a Good Counsel counselor appealed to the College Board, which agreed to permit Dave a special accommodation whereby an adult could transfer his oral responses to essays into written form. For the first time, I concluded that Dave had an outside chance to pass the exam and thus be admitted into his preferred college.

On the day of the exam, however, a communication breakdown occurred and the adult, who was supposed to help Dave, could not locate him and left the school building.

So success was now entirely in Dave’s own hands. I can only imagine what emotions must have rushed through Dave’s mind as he realized that he was entirely on his own.

I have often told colleagues that one of the academic successes I am most proud of was Dave earning a score of “3” on that A.P. U.S. History exam and his subsequent acceptance into the college of his dreams.

transport those on board to what they hoped would be a better life in the west. Duy and Hung somehow made their way across the Pacific Ocean and eventually settled in Fairfax County, where a sister lived.

Duy and Hung found their way to Good Counsel, where I taught them both in the same U.S. History class. They described to me their harrowing experiences on the high seas, where the threat of pirates and the scorching sun made their voyage one of great fear and physical exhaustion.

In my class, the Ngo brothers faced the challenge of adapting to a new culture and particularly to a new language.

Duy and Hung never complained about the harsh life they had faced in Vietnam nor about the difficulty in adapting to a new culture in America. At Good Counsel, they worked very hard to become fluent in English, to master U.S. history, and to develop new friends. As fall turned to winter, their grades steadily improved and, by June, their A grades placed

By Richard Burns

An Academic Achievement

David Conklin ’84 loved studying history and would often hang out in the Social Studies Resource Room at the Wheaton campus to watch documentaries and chat with teachers during their free periods. But Dave had great difficulty transferring his ideas from his head into written form and thus, despite his avid interest in history, had been denied the opportunity to take Advanced Placement courses and was placed in what had become known as the Ryken Program.

In the spring of his junior year, Dave expressed a desire to take A.P. U.S. History as a senior and I initially discouraged him due to his writing difficulties.

A.P. U.S. History, I explained, required the writing of complex essays and Dave could barely write a simple sentence. Yet Dave persisted and promised that he would work extra hard so that I relented and approved him for this course.

Throughout his senior year, Dave worked diligently and met with me frequently to improve his writing skills. As spring arrived, I concluded that, despite his impressive efforts, Dave’s writing skills were still so rudimentary that the odds of scoring a passing grade of 3 on the A.P. exam seemed overwhelming.

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An American Dream

Duy Ngo ’82 and his older brother Hung ’80 were Vietnamese “boat people,” who had been punished after the Communist victory in 1975, because their father had been a high-ranking military officer in the South Vietnamese Army. Being denied a formal education was one of the punishments the Ngo brothers faced and their widowed mother quickly concluded that her sons faced a bleak future if they stayed in Vietnam.

So Mrs. Ngo sold some jewelry, scraped together whatever funds she possessed, and bribed government officials in order to sneak her sons onto a decrepit boat that would

for a young Vietnamese boat person named Duy Ngo who was escaping from his own oppression to a new life full of opportunity.

them at the top of my class. Forty years later, I cannot think of a better example of the American dream, of making the most of one’s opportunities, than the Ngo brothers.

Duy went on to become a professional artist and gave me a gift when he graduated from Good Counsel, his drawing of Abraham Lincoln, based on the iconic statue that looks over the nation’s capital from one of the most famous of Washington’s monuments.

I have often wondered why Duy left me this particular gift and have concluded that Lincoln served as a symbol of freedom and hope for not only African-Americans after the Emancipation Proclamation but also

A Memorable Graduation Speech

Bill Wood ’82 was one of the finest students I have taught in my long career in education.

He and his classmate and close friend, Andy Collins ’82, consistently improved the quality of any course they took and I looked forward to exchanging ideas with them in class.

In his graduation speech in 1982, Bill referred to a trip he had taken that spring to Russia, then the center of Communism. He focused on a Moscow church with its distinctive dome that served as a landmark that Bill used to find his way back to his hotel.

On a deeper level, the church served as a symbol that helped Bill rediscover his roots as a Christian and as an American. For when Bill had left the United States a few weeks earlier, he had been a disillusioned teenager, frustrated with the failings of his country and of his church.

The trip to Moscow presented Bill with an alternate reality, one that led him to conclude that, for all of its imperfections, America provided its people with the freedom and opportunity that the Communist system lacked. Likewise, his time in atheistic Russia helped Bill realize that Christianity offered a better guide for how people should live than Communism. The key for valuing America and Christianity, it seems, was to examine the alternatives. Nearly four decades later, Bill Wood’s graduation speech continues to offer us food for thought.

39

60 Reasons Why…

60 Reasons Why…

58 FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

GC’s famous victory over St. John’s in 1978 cemented Guida’s legacy and prompted the Washington Post’s Donald Huff to remark in print that “talented Good Counsel is no longer a patsy.”

For many years, games had to be played on Saturday afternoons because GC did not have a lighted field for Friday night games. In the mid-1990s, Hall of Famer Tom Dickerson ’66 helped the school secure lights for the field, allowing the school community to enjoy Friday night lights at a home game for the

40

60

DEDICATED FACULTY

GREATEST OPPORTUNITY

At GC, we are blessed to have faculty and staff who dedicate the majority of their careers and lives to developing the minds and spirits of our students. Currently 20 faculty and staff have served for 20 or more years. We thank those named below, and the faculty and staff who came before them, for their devotion.

Good Counsel’s football team was first nicknamed The Falcons in the fall of 1960. That first season, the team finished 5-3. The first graduating class of 1962 did remarkably well during their 1961 season, with a record of 6-3-1, beating every Montgomery County school that they played.

Beginning in 1965, Andy Guida served as head of the varsity football program for 15 years. In his first year, GC finished 7th in the area, losing a very close game only to Archbishop Carroll, who finished #1. The 1968 squad finished fifth, and so the team started to be recognized as being tough to beat.

59

first time. GC was one of the first high schools in Montgomery County to have a lighted field.

In the fall of 2004, the football season ended with a #2 local ranking and a #7 East Coast recognition in USA Today.

broadcast nationally on ESPN, and GC won 21-6. The Falcon football team went 44-4 from 2009-2012, to the only team to finish #1 in any sport four years in a row.

The 2009 team finished #15 nationally, beating a great DeMatha team on National ESPN TV Game Since then, Falcons football has of the Week. The 2011 season changed a lot, most notably with culminated with a #4 national the construction of the new stateranking, and the Good Counsel of-the-art stadium in Olney and team was voted the greatest extra field space.

Maryland team in high school The varsity Falcons took off again football history. The talented under long time Good Counsel coach 2011 and 2012 teams finished #4 Tom Kolar (1995-2000), who had and #10 in the Nation. The 2018 a 44-22-1 record. Bob Milloy took football team, beginning its second over in 2001 and led the Falcons in season under Coach Andy Stefanelli 12 WCAC Championship games. ’83, boasts a preseason #23 national Good Counsel’s 2010 football season ranking. The tradition of excellence opener against St. Xavier was on the gridiron continues.

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

Pat Bates ’70 - 1974 to present Richard Seel - 1977 to present Dennis Essig - 1978 to present Richard Burns - 1978 to present Richard Slocum - 1981 to present Jorge Gonzalez - 1984 to present Mario Gonzalez - 1987 to present Tom Arnold - 1987 to present Andy Collins ’82 - 1988 to present Ana Lopez - 1988 to present Maureen Hickson - 1988 to present Walter Tombini - 1989 to present Jennifer Smith - 1989 to present Eleanor Donaghue - 1989 to present Steve Ghent - 1990 to present Peg Weidner - 1990 to present Amy Prezelski - 1992 to present Joe Cabigas ’82 - 1996 to present Debbie McKinney - 1996 to present Pete Kotz - 1997 to present

funds available for financial aid. We must work together to find long-term solutions for financial health and strength, so no Falcon is left behind. Our actions must reflect our mission to attract the best and brightest students to our school.

For 60 years, Good Counsel has taught the lifelong lessons found in the core Xaverian values. Now, looking forward, we welcome the challenge to be faithful to our Xaverian Brothers’ heritage and extend the gift of an equitable education to those that seek it.

Schools like ours are facing a national trend of balancing the rising costs of tuition with limited

Our beautiful Olney campus can accommodate many more students than our days in Wheaton. Today our challenge and responsibility is to provide technologically advanced learning spaces and facilities that allow our students to investigate problems and experience ideas.

As Good Counsel prepares for the next 60 years, we are not resting on our laurels. The future of Our Lady of Good Counsel is bright and with the support of our passionate community, we can embark on an ambitious journey to inspire future generations to excel, serve, and love.

“You are called to a life of constant searching.

Let the developments and changes of your times be a source of both confidence and challenge to you.”

— Brothers of Saint Francis Xavier

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Alumni TODAY

Reunion Weekend

42

Alumni Today

Classes ending in 2 and 7 enjoyed their Alumni Reunion Weekend on October 27-28, 2017.

The celebration for classes ending in 3 and 8 will take place October 19-20, 2018.

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Alumni Today

Alumni Today

2018 50th

On April 26, Our Lady of Good Counsel High School recognized Timothy Welsh ’84 as the 2018 Distinguished Alumnus award recipient. Welsh enjoyed the Feast of Our Lady of Good Counsel Mass where he made remarks to the student body about the value of his time at GC and enjoyed brunch in the brand new student lounge. He then spoke to the GC accounting and economics classes about the current market and its impact on the future.

Members of the class of 1968 in their golden robes at graduation.

REUNION The class of 1968 kicked off their 50th reunion year by welcoming the class of 2018 to the alumni community at the Commencement for the class of 2018 at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. The new Golden Falcons processed in with the students, faculty, and staff in their golden robes and sat upon the altar. During the ceremony, President Dr. Barker acknowledged the class and congratulated them on their 50th reunion. He reminded the class of 2018 that they are Falcons forever and wondered of they will be up on the altar in 50 years.

After graduation, the group headed over

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

to Pennsylvania 6, where we enjoyed a private luncheon. It was a day full of laughs, celebration, fellowship, and a little bit of adventure! We look forward to officially inducting the class of 1968 into the Golden Falcon Club this fall during reunion weekend October 19-20, 2018.

In his remarks, Welsh recognized the donors whose generosity enabled him to attend Good Counsel through scholarships and financial assistance. These generous community members inspired him to create the Richard M. Burns and Richard Slocum Scholarships so that he could “pay it forward” and provide that same generosity for other students.

Welsh currently works as the Vice Chairman of Consumer Banking Sales and Support at U.S. Bank. In this role, Welsh works with colleagues to provide consumers and small businesses with exceptional banking products and services to help them reach their potential and achieve their dreams. Previously, Welsh was a Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company for 26 years. While with McKinsey, he was one of only 30 senior partners elected to serve on McKinsey’s Shareholders Council, which is the firm’s Board of Directors.

Distinguished Alumnus

Welsh is a bold advocate for the community and works tirelessly as a volunteer in leadership roles. He is a founder of the Itasca Project, a dedicated team of business, government, and not-for-profit leaders who are working to improve the quality of life in Minneapolis and St. Paul. He is a board chair for Greater Twin Cities United Way, President of the Board of Trustees at St. Paul Academy and Summit School, immediate Past Chair of the Board of Greater MSP, Governance and Audit Committee Chair for the GHR Foundation, and a member of the Boards of the Minnesota Orchestra, Commonweal Magazine, and Minnesota Philanthropy Partners.

In 2016, Mr. Welsh was awarded “The Life of Distinction Award” from Catholic Charities for his longstanding dedication to and support of those most in need in the St. Paul and Minneapolis communities, as well as actively living the mission of Catholic Charities through devotion to the organization, volunteerism, and board commitment.

The Xaverian Brothers recited a saying to the students, “Even alone, a loving man can make a difference.” Welsh embodies that phrase through his community leadership, stewardship, and generosity.

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Alumni Today

Alumni Today

2018

Hero Forces Combine on Good Counsel’s

Athletic Hall of Fame Class On March 24, seven new members were inducted as part of the Hall of Fame’s 2018 induction class. The “Class of 2018”: Heather Pearson Bubar ’03 (Girls’ Soccer), Jessica Emanuele ’07 (Volleyball), Michael Graninger ’70 (baseball), Bob Milloy (Football Coach), Colleen Haase Hall ’07 (Swimming), Megan Waters ’07 (Swimming) and the 1972 Baseball Team.

The Hall of Fame was created to recognize accomplishments and contributions of individuals whose participation in Falcon athletics has brought distinction and honor to the program.

Of the thousands of student athletes and coaches who have participated in athletics at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, 105 individuals and three teams have been inducted into the prestigious GC Athletic Hall of Fame since it was created in 1989.

This year’s keynote speaker was GC Alum and 2017 HOF inductee, Kaili McLaren ’06. All in attendance enjoyed a cocktail hour before the induction ceremony with a delicious spread provided by Sage Dining Services.

The moment of the night came when Dave Rivers ’73 gave back the baseball Coach Kolar gave to him after winning the 1972 league championship. Those who are lucky enough to know Mr. Kolar know how much his players and students have meant to him throughout the years.

Congratulations to the 2018 Good Counsel Hall of Fame inductees: Heather Pearson Bubar ’03, Jessica Emanuele ’07, Michael Graninger ’70, Bob Milloy, Colleen Haase Hall ’07, Megan Waters ’07, and the 1972 Baseball Team.

2nd Annual Day of Giving Thank you to all Falcons for answering the call and joining our league of Super Heroes! On April 11, 2018, alumni, students, parents, friends, faculty, and staff came together to raise critical funding for the Funds for Good Counsel. The support received proves that combined forces pave the way for our Falcons to have a bright future and empowers them to excel, serve, and love.

418 DONORS+

24 HOURS+ $65,000 Matching Gifts =

$178,095 Mark your calendars and spread the word; the 3rd Annual Day of Giving is April 10, 2019.

46

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

47

ADVANCEMENT

Advancement

Saint Francis Xavier

Society Dinner

In November, Good Counsel welcomed nearly 200 members of the Saint Francis Xavier Society to a special dinner to celebrate their generous financial support of Good Counsel’s mission.

The night included special recognitions to leaders in our community. Matthew Jeanneret ’85 and Mike Reyes ’85 received the Our Lady Award, which recognizes an individual or family within our school community who has provided outstanding volunteer work and tremendous commitment to the school. Matt Jeanneret and Mike Reyes, of the esteemed class of 1985, have worked tirelessly to engage their classmates in giving back to the school that they cherish so much. When Matt and Mike first began reaching out to their classmates, the class participation in the annual giving program was around 11%. This past year, it was a school record of 46%! That’s some incredible growth! The class is proud to have had the highest-class participation for six straight years.

Matt and Mike and the Class of 85 work hard to be sure that the road in front of Good Counsel remains named “1985 Way”!

The 1958 Cornerstone Award was presented to Dr. Paul and Dr. Eileen DeMarco. This award is given to recognize outstanding philanthropy and volunteer support to Good Counsel. Paul and Eileen are proud parents of three Good Counsel alums. They have generously supported Good Counsel while Andrew ’13, Elisabeth ’15, and Michael ’18 attended GC. Paul and Eileen gave tirelessly of themselves to help GC be the best possible community it can be. Whether

through their patronage of the arts, service as members of the Parents Association Board, support for First Friday Adoration, or chair of the Dads, Daughters, and Desserts event, Paul and Eileen embody the impact the loving, good person can have on the wider community. Good Counsel was thrilled to honor them with 1958 Cornerstone Award.

For the first time, Good Counsel presented the Concordia Award.

This award is given to a foundation or corporation that has had a significant philanthropic impact on our students. The inaugural award went to the V&S Foundation, a sustained supporter of GC’s service programs. In 2010, the V&S Foundation, under the leadership of Stephanie Saturni, identified Good Counsel’s El Salvador International Service Program as a remarkable, albeit limited opportunity for students. The V&S Foundation’s annual contributions to the El Salvador International Program alleviated prohibitive participation expenses for lowincome families, while also increasing students’ access by increasing the number of trips offered by the

school. The Foundation’s generous support enabled the program to grow from one annual trip with a substantial waitlist to three trips, including one trip for alumni who may not have had the opportunity to go during their time at Good Counsel. V&S’s support of domestic and international service trips has created a ripple effect of service, positively influencing the hundreds of lives that each student will serve during their four years at Good Counsel and beyond. Stephanie and Peter Saturni have two daughters, Abby Saturni, Class of 2014, and Alex Saturni, Class of 2018.

Elise Faulk ’18, a scholarship recipient, shared her appreciation for the academic, leadership, extracurricular, and spiritual opportunities she has received from school. Elise said, “Coming from a single parent household, I never thought I’d be able to come to a school like Good Counsel. Thanks to donors like you, I’ve been able to be a Falcon. I’m so grateful for my time here and for the person I have become. I’ve become a great leader, a great scholar, and a better person.”

Paul Barker, President, summarized the evening. “We are deeply grateful to the growing number of parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty, staff, corporations, and foundations who provide faithful leadership support to the school. Your generosity makes an enormous difference for our students and the GC community.”

Save the Date: SFX Society Dinner Thursday, November 8, 2018 (Invitation only)

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

2017-2018 Corporate Partners Program Our sincere thank you to all of the businesses and organizations that support Our Lady of Good Counsel High School through our Corporate Partners Program. We are so grateful for the support of our Corporate Partners and hope you will prioritize doing business with our Corporate Partners whenever possible.

If you would like more information about how your organization might get more involved with Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, either through our Corporate Partners Program or other event sponsorships, including the annual Steve Dean Golf Classic and the Grand Celebration, please do not hesitate to contact Savannah Renehan at 240.283.3384 or srenehan@olgchs.org.

PLATINUM FALCONS

Flood Family

David L. Higgins, M.D., P.C. ’75 & Family

GOLD FALCONS

Downtown Silver Spring

Givens Family

Steve E. Richter ’75

River Hill & Olney Wilhelm Family

Wiener Family Chris Corcoran ’83 & James Fangmeyer ’83

Potter Family

BLUE FALCONS STEAKHOUSE & RAW BAR

Leach Family Maryland-Sandy Spring

Gorman Family

Marty Murphy, Representative Sardelis Family

Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North Gutlerrez Family

Olney

MEDIA PARTNERS Jonathan Calure, M.D. ’85 & Family

debbieva

m

Ellington Family

Michael J. McCartin, CPCU & Family

Debbie Dooley-Vazzana & Kelly Dooley

Alessandro Barresi, Private Mortgage Banker NMLSR ID 483886

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Advancement

Advancement

Financial Aid and Scholarship Our Lady of Good Counsel High School believes diversity is a blessing that enriches our community. We provide $3.37 million in tuition assistance, which gives qualified students, who could not otherwise afford to attend, access to a superior education. Our robust financial assistance program supports the mission of the school and our commitment to being a diverse and inclusive community.

In addition to financial aid, Good Counsel awards over 35 endowed scholarships totaling $90,600 to talented, deserving students. The opportunity to fund a scholarship in the memory or honor of a loved one ensures that their memory lives on in a community that meant something to them. Endowing a scholarship is often the start of a ripple effect of philanthropy, as recipients are very likely to ‘pay it forward’ in their futures.

Good Counsel has recently redesigned its Named Scholarship Program to enable more donors to endow scholarships. Endowed scholarships require a minimum endowment of $25,000, which will provide student support towards tuition, fees, and/or other education costs. Endowments may be made for any amount above the $25,000, especially if the goal is to provide more support or to provide support for more than one student. Donors can opt for a multi-year pledge versus an outright contribution.

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

For many donors, the most rewarding part of creating an endowed scholarship is the ability to meet each recipient, often developing lifelong relationships.

Good Counsel hosts an annual Scholarship Appreciation Breakfast in late fall, providing a formal opportunity for donors to meet their scholarship recipients.

On December 7, 2017, Good Counsel hosted its annual Scholarship Appreciation Breakfast which is a great opportunity for students to meet and thank the donors who help make their Good Counsel education possible. Kayla Hunt ’17 spoke on behalf of the students, thanking the donors for their generosity and describing how they have inspired her to give back to the community.

Sara Tappan ’91 gave the keynote address. She shared her story as both a scholarship recipient and a donor and the highlighted the importance of paying it forward. In her speech, she emphasized the gift of giving.

“May you always recognize the gift in giving and the power of one. Your gift has the potential to change lives in the deepest way possible.”

To learn more about how you can establish an endowed scholarship with the potential to change the lives of our students, contact Savannah Renehan at srenehan@olgchs.org or 240.283.3384.

Class of 2018

GC BY THE NUMBERS The 314 members of the Class of 2018 are headed to 117 Colleges and Universities in 28 states, the District of Columbia and China.

99.3%

of those who applied to four-year institutions received acceptance

46%

will attend one of US News’ Top 100 Colleges and Universities

67% 38% 38%

will head out-of-state A school record

79%

have been offered a college scholarship

will attend private schools

Those scholarships total in excess of

have been accepted to honors programs

$

35.5

million

The Class of 2018 includes the first graduating class of international students. Members of the Class of 2018 have been admitted to Yale, Columbia, Cornell, U Penn, Johns Hopkins, Georgetown, and more. One hundred percent of the graduating international students are attending top 100 universities in the U.S., plus the University of Hong Kong, a top-ranking university in Asia.

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Class Notes

Advancement

Class Notes Cheryl Plainte Spotlight

Named Director of Marketing and Communications Cheryl Plainte, a seasoned brand and advancement marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in the field, began her role as Director of Marketing and Communications on August 20. Plainte comes to Good Counsel most recently from the University of Maryland where she spent five years strategizing on high profile brand marketing initiatives and events, including Maryland Day, the university’s largest annual outreach event and Fearless Ideas: The Campaign for Maryland.

Prior to her time in higher education, Plainte spent over 15 years with Stevens Advertising Associates both in Boston, Mass., and in Washington, DC, working with clients in primarily the arts and entertainment industry, including over 50 touring Broadway productions and venues.

In her role at Good Counsel, Plainte will develop and implement marketing strategies in line with the school’s

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

mission, values, and brand, delivering on them through internal and external communications. She will lead the marketing efforts this year to celebrate the school’s 60th anniversary, work closely with admissions and senior leadership to execute on efforts to attract highly talented students, and manage all media relations, digital media, graphics, and communications for the school.

“I am thrilled to accept the position of Director of Marketing and Communications and work hand-in-hand with the Good Counsel community to lead the marketing and communications strategy and vision,” says Plainte.

A resident of Olney, Md., Plainte and her husband, Mike, have a son, Jake, and spend much of their free time on the baseball field watching his games.

2015

2012

Eric Kaufman completed his Junior year at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va., where he is a Political Science major and Political Communications minor. In the fall, Eric served as an intern in the Washington DC office of Senator Charles Schumer as part of JMU’s highly competitive Washington Semester Program. Upon returning to JMU, Eric served as the Student Representative to the Board of Visitors where he also assisted in the search for new Vice-President of Student Affairs. He was elected to serve in the Student Government Association next year as the Chairman of the Legislative Action Committee, a position in which he will lead JMU’s political and legislative agenda for the next year. He is looking forward to his senior year and what lies ahead.

Shannon Barton completed an internship with Montana State University Sports Facilities where she was able to be at the forefront of planning and producing many athletic events as well as Broadway shows and major concerts. The concerts included artists such as Elton John, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, Eric Church, Casting Crowns, Def Leppard, and more.

She then accepted a full time position at MSU as their Conference Housing Coordinator and Event Planner where she managed a $1,000,000 housing operation in three short months.

Meghan Lemmo is currently interning with the Walt Disney Company on the Disney College Program.

Kyle Savercool Investments Associate with The Zupancic Group of Marcus & Millichap. District of Columbia Multi-family Real Estate Advisor.

Shannon Barton

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Class Notes

Class Notes

2011

2009 Jelani Jenkins and his bride Stephanie Wilson tied the knot in marriage with a beautiful celebration on Cinco De Mayo in New Orleans, La. The best of times were shared by all including fellow GC graduates

in Los Angeles, New York, and Houston.

Mark completed his MBA from the KenanFlagler Business School at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.

Kristin Twiford celebrated her Gold Themed Birthday Party at the Empire Rooftop in NYC with fellow 2008 Good Counsel friends Kaitlin Craig ’08, Briana Rivas-Morello ’08, Casey McGrath ’08, Meg Sexton ’08, and her brother Michael Twiford ’10

Mike Wallace ’09, Kelly Flaherty ’09, Devin Gordon-Hamm ’09, and Cory Boatman ’08.

John Witte is beginning his 2nd season as Director Of Player Personnel for the Chesapeake Bayhawks of the MLL (Major League Lacrosse) Emily Depasse recently moved to Philadelphia, PA this March to begin her new job as a Paralegal for a non-profit cancer research institute. This August, Emily began her pursuit of her dual masters degree program from Widener University in Social Work and Human Sexuality. In her free time, Emily enjoys writing, hiking, and staying active! She is also finishing up her RYT 200hour certification.

Katelyn Engen is currently working as an Athletic Trainer at Yale University in New Haven, Ct. with the men’s soccer and tennis programs.

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Officer Charles Heffley received the fourth District Police Public Safety Award for his extremely diligent and dedicated work in the Wheaton Station and the entire community that he serves.

2008 As of April 2018, Mark Salvador is serving as the VP/ General Manager of the 2U Office in Houston, Texas.

He was Director of Operations at the New York office from June 2016 to April 2018. He has been with the company since 2012. 2U (NASDAQ:TWOU) is a Maryland based Education Company based in Lanham, Md. 2U partners with leading colleges and universities to deliver world’s best online graduate degree programs. They have offices

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

2007 Alyssa (Hammerley) Shook was promoted to Senior Account Executive last summer at HZDG, an integrated marketing agency in Rockville, Md. She celebrated her sixth year at the company. Her and her husband, Chris, welcomed a baby boy in late August and are enjoying being first-time parents.

2006

Brett’s sisters, Erika Moore Hernandez ’02 and Heather Mennie ’02 were bridesmaids in the wedding. Kaitlyn is excited to be part of the Good Counsel family!

Rev. Kevin A. Fields ‘04

Janelle Neubauer recently graduated from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago with a Master of Divinity after finishing her studies in December of 2016.

She was ordained into the Ministry of Word and Sacrament as a pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) on April 29, 2017. She is currently serving her first call as a missionary pastor relating to the Lutheran Church of Rwanda and as the country coordinator for the ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) in Rwanda. She will be living and serving in Rwanda for the next four years. The years of studying religion and participating in spiritual development and the Peace and Justice Team at Good Counsel played an important role in her call story to ministry and service to the wider church.

Candace Paul wrote her first book and was blessed enough to have a faith-based publisher offer her a contract.

Spiritual Warfare was released late 2016 and achieved Bestseller’s status! It was #3 on Amazon in Religious Science Fiction and #4 in Christian Fiction.

Robbie Silk’s second children’s book, The Adventures of RJ the Mouse The Forgotten Voice, is now published and available online.

Teaching courage is not always about heroic deeds, this latest adventure for RJ the mouse is inspired by Olney and area neighborhoods.

2005 David Christopher married in 2013 to Jess Christopher (Kelly). Daughter, Whitney born April 2016. Moved to Olney (from Rockville) in August 2017. Working at Santos Postal & Co, P.C., a Rockville based CPA Firm. Jess works for MCPS as a Physical Therapist.

Brett Moore married Kaitlyn Quinn on April 21st, 2018. Matt Fitzpatrick ’06 was the best man and Brett’s brother-in-law Carlos Hernandez ’02, Andrew Hill ’06, and Dario Perez ’05 were groomsmen.

Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC. He graduated from Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Md. with a Master of Divinity degree and a Master of Arts degree in Moral Theology. After his ordination, Fr. Fields celebrated a Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving at his home parish of St. Peter’s in Olney, Md. Cardinal Donald Wuerl, Archbishop of Washington, appointed Fr. Fields as Parochial Vicar of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Rockville, Md.

Christina Davisson celebrated the birth of her first son Roger Steven Davisson on May 22, 2017.

2004

2003

Rev. Kevin A. Fields was ordained to the Roman Catholic priesthood for the Archdiocese of Washington during a June 16 Mass at the Basilica of the National

JJ Lyons has started working for Occidental Petroleum out in west Texas. Buying and selling crude oil. He and his wife welcomed their first child, Leah Lyons April 3, 2017.

2001 Bill Stablein is enjoying life with his two daughters Emma (5) and Brynn (2).

55

Class Notes

Class Notes

1991

1982

Meghan and Scott Pafumi were married on September 30, 2017 in Clifton, Va. She gained three children - Elijah (18), Jeremiah (16), and Gabriella (14), and shortly after their wedding, they bought their first house in Sterling, Va. Meghan and Scott have been teaching Theatre in Fairfax County Public Schools since 1998.

John ’82 and Karen Singleton celebrate the graduation of their son, Michael, from the University of Notre Dame.

1976 Bill Witte was recently inducted into the Archbishop Carroll Athletic Hall of Fame.

Nic Molinara celebrated the birth of his second child and first boy Luca Gianni Molinara.

Meghan Pafumi

Richard Fairley recently changed his job and is currently working at The Way Station of Frederick as an employment specialist.

Margaret Erpenbeck just published her first novel, Half Past Monday (halfpastmonday.com).

Christina Chaconas ’99

Michael Abell had a great time at the 45-year reunion, looking forward to 50.

Michael Diokno received the Outstanding Athletic Director Award by the CYO Board of Directors of the Archdiocese of Washington for his service to the athletic program at St. John the Baptist Parish. He and his wife Vivian Perdomo Diokno ’96 became Falcon parents this past fall when their son Victor joined the Class of 2021.

Michael Feeley and wife Sara have two kids, Jack and Keegan. Jack is almost two, Keegan is 6 months. They currently live in Chevy Chase Md. Michael has been a financial adviser for the last 10 years, currently with Raymond James & Associates.

Christina Chaconas and her husband Christopher Healy welcomed their first child, Barbara Chaconas Healy, on April 24, 2017.

1996 Melissa Glover is working as a high school principal and getting her Doctorate in Educational Leadership at High Point University.

Kristi Weaver-Eynon and David Eynon ’97 had a baby boy January 14, 2017 named Sawyer Harrington Eynon.

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1972

Michael Skinner ’92

2000 1999

Meghan Pafumi ‘91

1994

1992

Adrian Muys produced a local documentary film called “New Chefs On the Block” that premiered nationwide on April 4, with distribution through Landmark Theaters. Check out the film’s website and trailer here: www.newchefsontheblock.com

Michael Skinner traveled to South Sudan intending to shoot a film about how US-based doctors are training indigenous health care workers to perform much needed surgical procedures. Instead, he and his team found themselves in the middle of tribal conflicts that have become another civil war. The resulting feature film, “We Are The Ones,” is about how South Sudanese surgeons in small villages are using medicine as a bridge for peace with rival tribes. “We Are The Ones” is now available on Amazon (it’s even free with your Prime membership). Please check it out.

1993 Christina Paul, JD, is now an equity member in the global law firm of K&L Gates, LLP. K& L Gates has offices located across five continents and has been consistently recognized as one of the top tier law firms.

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

Ethridge, Quinn, Kemp, McAuliffe, Rowan & Hartinger in Rockville, Md, and has been practicing in Maryland and the District of Columbia for thirty-two years. His practice includes corporate litigation, personal injury law, criminal law, and family law.

1988 Eric Stanley is a retired police sergeant from the city of Frederick and a current business owner in the Thurmont area.

1968

1980 Jim Cardaci has been retained as a senior mortgage loan officer at Fitzgerald Financial Group in Rockville, Maryland, a Best Places to Work company recently named in the Washington Post, owned by Dan Fitzgerald ’78, and employing several Good Counsel graduates in the area.

1979 Dan Keusal celebrated 25 years in practice as a Jungian Psychotherapist. Dan has also done lectures and workshops for organizations ranging from Microsoft and Seattle University, to local churches and professional and community groups.

Michael J. McAuliffe has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in North America. Mike is a partner in the firm of

Joseph Krainak accepted a full-time position as Senior Scientist for LGS Innovations LLC and relocated to Westminster, Colo. at the beginning of October. He recently completed the classic four day Inca Trailtrek in the Andes ending

57

Class Notes

Alumni Save the Date September 7 60th Anniversary Birthday Celebration for Our Lady of Good Counsel High School

at Machu Picchu, Peru. Visiting Machu Picchu, a spectacular archeological site and an engineering marvel, fulfilled one of his wife’s childhood dreams. Joe and his wife are looking forward to skiing this winter in mountains closer to home.

John Gretz was recently appointed by Governor Larry Hogan to serve a three year term of service on the Maryland Commission on Disabilities. MCOD serves as the advisory body of the Maryland Department of Disabilities which is charged with unifying and improving the delivery of services to individuals with disabilities throughout the state. MCOD also plays an instrumental role in the development of the State Disabilities Plan, a comprehensive multi-year strategic plan that sets performance goals for all agencies in Maryland which serve individuals with disabilities. The Commission includes 19 members appointed by the Governor and representatives from the Maryland Senate and House of Delegates. John’s expertise in the area of disabilities involves the design and construction of fully accessible pathways within public rights-of-ways (sidewalks, street intersections, curb ramps). He is the President of the Disability Rights and Accessibility Group (DRAAG) that he founded to promote full compliance with all of the Federal regulations stipulated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

1967

September 10 Annual Steve Dean Golf Classic October 19 Falcon Fest Tailgate October 20 Classes ending in 8 & 3 Reunions, Alumni Basketball Game, Golden Falcon Club Mass & Brunch November 1 Alumni Memorial Mass November 8 Saint Francis Xavier Society Dinner

Craig Farr ‘66

Steve Arkin is fully retired and living in Oceanside, near San Diego, Calif. He has three grown kids (two boys and a girl) out on their own in California. Sue is still running her retail shop selling antiques and collectibles. Steve is filling his time with some volunteering and a lot of golf. He and his wife are healthy enough to enjoy some traveling. In between, he reads, watches TV, and helps his kids.

Stephen Judge was recently selected as a Super Lawyer for his practice in Administrative Law. Stephen is a trial lawyer in New Hampshire and has been since graduating from Boston College Law School in 1982. He served as Acting Attorney General from 2002-2003 at the end of his 19 years in that office. Stephen is currently a partner at Wadleigh, Starr & Peters, PLLC in Manchester, N.H. John Romero is recently retired from his physical therapy private practice after 40 years of doing outpatient orthopedics. His two daughters live in town with their spouses and their two grandchildren. He is looking

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November 21 Alumni Night

The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

December 9 Cookies and Cocoa with Santa forward to more travelling and golf especially when he snowbirds in Naples, Florida.

1966 Bob Bonifant, Bill Bonifant ’68, and George Bonifant ’70 attended the investiture of their brother, Jim Bonifant’74 as a Montgomery County circuit judge on July 6, 2017, following his nomination to the bench by Governor Larry Hogan. Roughly 350 friends, family, legal associates, and state politicians were in attendance. Bob retired in 2013 after 42 years with Bank of America. He and his wife Robin live in Haymarket, Va. Bill is a retired dentist living in Martinsburg, W. Va. with his wife Vicki. George retired from IBM in 2013 and lives at the original Bonifant family farm home with his wife Cheri in Colesville. Jim and his wife Debbie reside in the Sandy Spring area.

Craig Farr is retired, living in Sanibel, Fla. and still racing Formula 1 cars!

January 3 Young Alumni Career Fair March 2 Grand Celebration March 23 Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony & Reception April 10 Day of Giving April 26 Distinguished Alumnus Award Celebration and Feast of Our Lady Mass

Important Dates 2020 Athletic Hall of Fame Good Counsel Business Network: Are you looking ALUMNI – Submit nominations for your fellow classmates and former teammates to be for a career change? considered for the 2020 Athletic Hall of Fame.

To submit a nomination, please fill out a nomination form by going to www.olgchs.org/HallofFame.

Nominations are due by April 1, 2019.

Classes ending in 8 and 3: Your Reunion Celebration will be in October We invite you to GC this fall to reunite with classmates during Reunion Weekend 2018! It’s sure to be a funfilled weekend re-connecting with friends and faculty, and remembering all of your fondest memories of being a Falcon, all while celebrating the 60th anniversary of Good Counsel!

Classes 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008 and 2013 – WE NEED Reunion Captains to help plan the weekend of events and to reach out to classmates. If you’re interested in serving as Reunion Captain, in any capacity, please contact Collin DeWitt in the Alumni Office at CDeWitt@olgchs.org or (240) 283-3214.

May 23 Class of 1969 Graduation and 50th Reunion Luncheon

Have you moved or changed your mailing/email address?

Keep us up to date!

We are looking for members of the Class of 1969 to join the Reunion Committee.

Please visit olgchs.org/classnotes to update all contact information to ensure you receive invitations for your class gatherings and other pertinent alumni information.

If you are interested, contact Collin DeWitt: CDeWitt@olgchs.org (240) 283-3214

Are you looking to hire new personnel? Are you looking for new selling prospects? Want to connect with strong and loyal referral sources?

Tap into the vast and rich network of professionals within the Good Counsel Business Network! The GCBN provides events and programming as an opportunity for our alumni, current parents, past parents, grandparents, and community partners to make career and business connections with fellow members of the Good Counsel community. All alumni from various industries and levels of career experience are encouraged to get involved.

Contact Collin DeWitt, Director of Alumni Relations, at cdewitt@olgchs.org to find out more about the program.

GC Network on LinkedIn: Be sure to list Our Lady of Good Counsel High School under “education” on your LinkedIn profile as well as join the GC alumni-only group on LinkedIn. To search for the alumni group, please type in Our Lady of Good Counsel Alumni. It’s a great outlet to exchange ideas, knowledge, and opportunities. Join GC alumni today! _________________________

Help Us Stay Connected Do you like to stay connected to your GC friends? Would you like more opportunities to catch up with classmates and other GC alumni? Consider being a Class Agent. Good Counsel is looking for alumni who want to connect with classmates, keep them in touch with GC, encourage them to attend reunions and other events, and share ways to support your alma mater. If you would like more information about becoming a Class Agent, contact Collin DeWitt, Director of Alumni Relations, (240) 283-3214.

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In Memoriam

In

Come Celebrate 60 Years with Good Counsel

One Community, One Home

Memoriam

We remember those Falcons who passed over the past year.

May their spirit soar high.

George Beck ’94 John Biciocchi ’13 Bro. Martin Boone | worked at GC 1977 - 1979 Bernadette Bueno ’94 Jose Cofino ’77 Justin Cristaudo ’64 Michael Flannery ’72 Thomas Fox ’70 Adam Grant ’98 Gary Hartley ’63 John Holden ’66 John Joseph Jackson ’87 Fred McChesney ’66 Bro. Dan O’Brien | Religion and English teacher 1975-76 and 1977-1982 Norman Paulhus, Jr. ’66 Matthew Ponticelli ’00 John Darin Pugh ’96 Jeffrey Reilly ’85 Adrian Roberts ’15 Mark Rodriguez ’82 Jon Schoen ’79 Richard Tegethoff Robert Windlan | Athletic Director and Science Teacher 1987-2004

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The COUNSELOR | 60th Anniversary Edition

60 Anniversary Signature Events th

Birthday Celebration Friday, September 7, 2018

Monday, September 10, 2018 36th Annual Steve Dean

9:00–10:30am All-School Mass in the Golf Classic at Manor

Kane Center Mass concelebrated Country Club,

with alumni clergy 10:30–11:30am Brunch for guests 5:00–7:00pm

Family Friendly Tailgate Light food, drinks, and fun for the entire family

7:00–9:00pm

Varsity Football Game Watch the Falcons take on Mt. St. Joe’s

9:00–11:00pm 5th Quarter Bull Roast

Adults-only event includes BBQ, beer, and wine

Rockville, Md.

Saturday, March 2, 2019 31st Annual Grand Celebration for Good Counsel’s Diamond Anniversary To learn more and register, please visit www.olgchs.org/sixty

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A Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School 17301 Old Vic Boulevard | Olney, Maryland 20832 PARENTS OF ALUMNI If this issue is addressed to a son or a daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify Collin Dewitt, Director of Alumni Relations at cdewitt@olgchs.org.

Learn About Us at OLGHS.org

COMMENCEMENT 2018 Falcons Forever