The Magazine of St. Paul VI Catholic High School • Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
“It was very touching to see how much happiness we brought to the family we helped, and I really felt like I was making a difference.”
P4
We Are Called to Serve
“I’m already seeing students take ownership of their time in ways they never have before.”
“What I appreciate most about PVI is its deep commitment to nurturing faith and fostering a true family atmosphere.”
P6
P14
Time That Helps Students Thrive
Paul VI School Advisory Board
SCHOOL NEWS
“I want my students to know that they are loved — and that they do have a future and a path to something greater.”
P26
Alumni Spotlight
“I give God what little bit I’m able to give, and God makes it something great.”
UNITED IN SONG. Members of the PVI Choir sang at a special Mass honoring All Soul’s Day celebrated by Bishop Burbidge at Fairfax Memorial Cemetery on November 3, 2025.
P28
Alumni Spotlight ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
IN THIS ISSUE We Are Called to Serve
Panther Tracks Magazine St. Paul VI Catholic High School 42341 Braddock Road Chantilly, VA 20152 703-352-0925 paulvi.net
Students make a difference in their communities
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Mrs. Laura Swenson Head of School Dr. Tom Opfer ’96 Principal Fr. Jonathan Fioramonti Chaplain Mrs. Irene Zaso P ’18, ’21 Director of Communications and Marketing Mrs. Eileen Kiley Curren ’98 Associate Director of Communications and Marketing; Panther Tracks Managing Editor Mr. Daniel Barlow P ’26 Director of Advancement Mrs. Mary Hays P ’28 Associate Director of Advancement Mrs. Mary Ashooh Hamrick ’86, P ’19, ’20, ’22, ’23 Associate Director of Parent & Alumni Engagement 2025-2026 SCHOOL ADVISORY BOARD Dr. Joseph Vorbach, Superintendent, Office of Catholic Schools Mrs. Laura Swenson, Head of School Chair: Tom McGonigle P ’02, ’06, ’13 Vice Chair: George Eastment P ’05 Olivia Bolton ’20 Robert Dadio P ’28 Mary Lynne Duncan ’89, P ’21, ’29 Fr. Jonathan Fioramonti, Chaplain Fr. Donald Heet, OSFS Christopher Hornbecker P ’27 Carlos Lama P ’20, ’22, ’25 Richard McCoy P ’24, ’26 Dr. Tom Opfer ’96, Principal Edward Pezzullo P ’22, ’23, ’25 Siri Serngadichaivit P ’26, ’28 In this issue: This year, our school’s theme is “We are called to serve.” In serving others, we are serving our Lord. Our students, faculty, and staff strive to serve one another and the community we live in daily. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40) Cover photo by Jack Ladowicz ’27 We want to hear from you. Send alumni news, photos, comments, suggestions, and corrections to communications@paulvi.net. Panther Tracks is going digital. For the Spring 2026 Panther Tracks issue, we will be sending the Panther Tracks magazine digitally to email addresses on file. If you would like to continue receiving a printed copy by mail, please use the QR code on the back cover to opt in. Need to change your email address, phone number, or address? Contact advancement@paulvi.net. Connect with PVI @paulvicatholic 2
PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
Panther Time New schedule helps students thrive
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Panther Champions Girls Volleyball wins WCAC Championship
16 Grandparents Day A special day for our PVI Grand-Panthers!
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A Yes to God’s Call Alumni Spotlight: Fr. Tom Yehl, YA ’96
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FROM THE
HEAD OF SCHOOL “The vocation of the Catholic educator is not simply to inform, but to form — with faith, with mercy, and with love that sees each soul as sacred.” — P OP E L E O X I V
he St. Paul VI Catholic High School community is celebrating its 43rd year with a sense of purpose. This academic year, our building theme is “We are called to serve.” Our students, faculty, and staff have embraced the theme and continue to find new ways to serve others. During our annual food drive in November, our Campus Life team and SGA organized a remarkable service project and collected over 26,000 pounds of food and toiletries for those in need. The drive was so successful that our students are hoping to hold another one in the spring. In addition to looking outward, our students, faculty, and staff continue to look for ways to serve one another. Our new schedule featuring “Panther Time” and extended lunch periods are just two of the ways in which our community is coming together. Teachers are offering office hours, and student-led clubs have been reinvigorated as a result of the additional time. Thanks to the generous support of our donors at last spring’s Black & Gold Gala, we added a senior retreat this year. Our Class of 2026 started the year with an orientation day like none other! It featured discussions on leadership and legacy, and seniors enjoyed a BBQ and the opportunity to personalize the sea container located in the end zone area of the stadium. It is no wonder that school spirit at PVI is at an all-time high! We are blessed with caring individuals who have formed an extraordinary Catholic community, and I thank you for being a part of it. Hopefully, you will experience the love and joy as you peruse these pages. I hope that you will also join us on campus to experience it in person. Thank you for your continued support of St. Paul VI Catholic High School. Go Panthers! Peace and blessings,
Laura H. Swenson, Head of School
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
We Are Called to Serve
This year’s building theme highlights PVI’s commitment to service. St. Paul VI Catholic High School is committed to graduating
“During my Service to Others, I hope that I instilled kindness
responsible, moral, service-oriented young adults who will
and respect to the youth, but most importantly the love for God,
continue to grow in grace and wisdom. This mission is central
putting Him before anyone or anything else. This experience
to everything we do, and it comes to life in a special way
impacted me in a unique way, teaching me how to live like a
through our schoolwide theme for the year: “We are called
child as Jesus tells us to in Matthew 18:3.”
to serve.”
— Sean Maguire ’27
Service to Others is a requirement for all students, not
“Serving food at a homeless shelter was eye-opening. I grew in
simply as an academic expectation but as a way of forming
empathy as I connected with people facing tough times, and
compassionate hearts. Through service, our community grows
it strengthened my faith by showing me the importance of
in understanding, humility, and gratitude for the blessings God
compassion and helping those in need.” — Benjamin Neal ’28
has given us. So close is Jesus to the poor, needy, and vulnerable that He
“It was very touching to see how much happiness we brought
says, “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine,
to the family we helped, and I really felt like I was making a
you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). When we serve those most in
difference. I also learned to see God in the people that I helped,
need — the poor, hungry, sick, elderly, homeless, and children
while also bringing God to them through my work.” — Margaret Lacey ’28
— we are truly serving the Body of Christ as Jesus served His people.
“I grew as a person because I realized that not all people have
This year, PVI students have embraced this call in meaningful
what I have. I need to be grateful and thankful for what I have.
ways. Across classrooms, parishes, nonprofits, and
It also taught me to treat everyone equally because you don’t
neighborhoods, Panthers are working to make a difference.
know what situation they are in.”
Below are a few reflections from students who have answered the call to serve:
— Juan Sebastian Roca ’27
At the heart of all these experiences is the command given to
“I have helped teach a CCD class, helped at food drives, and
us by Christ Himself:
served at a therapeutic horse ranch. Not only have I had the
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have
chance to help others, but by seeing others’ conditions and
loved you, so you must love one another.” — John 13:34
experiences, it has helped me be more aware, patient, and understanding of those around me.”
call to serve — to love generously, serve humbly, and bring — Alea Mercorelli ’26
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
Through service, PVI students strive each day to embody the God’s presence into the world.
SCHOOL NEWS
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
Time That Helps Students Thrive
Panther Time and New Schedule Supports Student Well-Being n response to student, parent, and faculty feedback
weight room with sports teams after school. This year, we have
from the Diocesan reaccreditation survey, the PVI daily
the room to ourselves, so more people can attend.”
school schedule was revised for the 2025–2026 school year. One of the goals was to help reduce student anxiety while supporting overall wellness and student engagement.
Similarly, Nobilis Christi (Gentlemen of Christ) brings together young men to discuss their faith, ask meaningful questions, and support one another as they prepare for real-world challenges.
Another student-centered improvement was the extension
Thanks to Panther Time, the group now meets during the school
of lunch to about 40 minutes, giving students more time to
day rather than after school.
enjoy each other’s company and eat in a more relaxed social atmosphere.
Panther Time
all grade levels
“The new schedule is reducing stress and helping students build the executive function skills they will need to thrive in college and life.”
to connect with
— MR. MIKE HARGADON, ADVISOR
takes place during
This new schedule offers structured flexibility, allowing students
Advisory, a time
to practice their time-management skills as they prepare for
for students of
college and beyond. Panther Time takes place from 10:20–11:35 a.m. every full
faculty advisors
day except Wednesdays, unless there is an All-School Mass.
who support
During this period, students have a variety of opportunities that
their spiritual, intellectual, personal, social, and physical
change depending on the day. They can recharge, meet with
development. This period also helps build engagement and
teachers during office hours, catch up on homework, connect
strengthen community.
with friends during club meetings, or pray in the chapel.
Campus Life provides Big Brothers & Big Sisters with daily
Over the past few months, students have taken advantage of
themes and activities to guide discussions, games, and friendly
Panther Time in numerous ways — visiting their counselors,
competitions during Panther Time. Faculty members help
working with teachers, stopping by Campus Life and Campus
monitor the environment, mentor student leaders, and check in
Ministry, praying in the chapel, attending club meetings,
with their advisees.
completing make-up assessments in the testing center, spending time with our Lord during Adoration, attending Friday Mass, and more. Charles Faist ’27, a member of the PVI Lifting Club, shared how
“I’m already seeing students take ownership of their time in ways they never have before. Panther Time gives them space to breathe, plan, and genuinely engage with their learning. The new schedule is reducing stress and helping students build the
Panther Time has strengthened participation. “Last year, there
executive function skills they will need to thrive in college and
were only about eight club members, and we had to share the
life,” shares Advisor Mr. Mike Hargadon.
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
Advisory Challenge
Advisory Games
SGA
Lifting Club
Office Hours
Adoration
Decorating Rally Towels
Robotics Club
Cards for PVI Veterans Advisory Celebration
SCHOOL NEWS
Making Their
Senior Day 2025
n August 22, 2025, Paul VI kicked off the year with a new tradition — an unforgettable Senior Day. The event brought the Class of 2026 together in reflection, community, and celebration. The day included Mass, team-building games, goal-setting, a BBQ lunch, and concluded with a new tradition: the senior class painting a sea container next to the stadium field to “make their mark” as they embarked on their final year at PVI. Senior Day was full of meaning and memories. “Our seniors locked in as leaders, and have been stepping up to make this year amazing and begin shaping the legacy they will leave behind at PVI,” shared Mr. Joe Hugley, Director of Campus Life.
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
Panther Pathways
skills faith leadership
Panther Seminars build skills, faith, and leadership from freshman to senior year his year, Paul VI introduced Panther Seminars at every grade level — intentional courses designed to help
Panther Seminar 10–11: Exploring Careers and Character
students grow academically, socially, and spiritually as
Panther Seminar 10-11 shifts its focus to career exploration,
they move through high school. Each seminar builds
financial literacy, communication, and personal development.
on the last, guiding students from foundational skills
Activities so far have included:
in ninth grade to leadership, reflection, and career readiness by senior year.
Panther Seminar 9: Building Skills and Confidence Panther Seminar 9 is a project-based course that helps students establish the academic, social, and spiritual foundation they need to thrive. Ninth graders strengthen core skills — study strategies, time management, problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and organization — while learning about PVI traditions, expectations, and what it means
• Financial literacy through Monopoly • Playing LIFE to explore careers, salaries, and real estate • Career presentations involving salary research, education requirements, and cost of living • A Jeopardy-style game to understand credit, debit, debt, and interest • Personal safety sessions collaborating with PVI’s Safety & Security Team
to be part of a Catholic school community. Dedicated time is
• Leadership-style exploration through Minecraft
built into the course for practicing these habits, giving students
• How to write a professional email
the confidence to meet the challenges of the next four years. Students also take part in hands-on collaborative activities. In one recent project, they used Plus-Plus Blocks to construct abstract objects and engineer the tallest free-standing structure, sharpening creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Stress management, grit, resilience, growth mindset, and temperaments • Gratitude practices and guided meditation to “meet Jesus on the beach” • Reflective listening, communication skills, collaboration, and advocacy • Designing an elective course and pitching it to Dr. Opfer
Panther Seminar 12: Reflecting on Leadership, Faith, and Legacy In Panther Seminar 12, students have the opportunity to reflect on their years at PVI in terms of leadership, faith, and service. During the first semester, seniors examined the four components of creativity — original, fluent, flexible, and elaborative thinking — and how to incorporate these attributes into their daily lives. Students interviewed peers to discover their talents and their hopes for their PVI legacies. Not only did students learn more about their classmates, they also learned more about problem solving and self-advocacy. 10
PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
Together, Panther Seminars 9–12 create a cohesive, intentional program — one that develops confident learners, reflective leaders, and faith-centered young adults.
Glenn Farello, Assistant Director of Athletics and Head Boys Basketball Coach, will also present in the course. “I look forward to contributing and adding to the variety of topics provided by others. I’ll provide sessions on leadership, character, serving others beyond high school, and business workplace expectations. I worked in telecom finance for over 20 years, in addition to coaching for over 30 years, and am happy to share some thoughts on how to navigate career paths.”
A Four-Year Formation Together, Panther Seminars 9–12 create a cohesive, intentional program — one that develops confident learners, reflective leaders, and faith-centered young adults. Whether building foundations, exploring careers, or reflecting on their legacy, students will gain the skills and self-knowledge they need to thrive at PVI and beyond.
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
US LIFE R P OU M A ND C UP !
Advisory Teams To build stronger connections within and across grade levels, this year, each Advisory has been placed into one of five larger Advisory Teams: St. Thomas More, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Jane de Chantal, St. Francis de Sales, and St. Paul VI. Teams sit together during All-School Masses, attend priority meetings together, and compete in friendly competitions throughout the year. PVI has always thrived on healthy competition, and this new format will make our community even stronger. One of our students’ favorite events, Hunger Action Week, allowed for Advisories to compete as teams and helped set the tone for a year of purpose-driven fun. Congratulations to team St. Jane de Chantal for the inaugural win! Gold Out Week
Rally Towel Decorating
Rally Towels This year, Campus Life has introduced a new tradition to rally support before Friday football games. Advisories decorate rally towels — each one a unique expression of Panther Pride — and the winning group earns dress-out days; during Gold Out Week the winning Advisory won gold PVI t-shirts. From competitions to clubs to Spirit Week and Homecoming, Campus Life continues to strengthen the bonds that make PVI such a vibrant and spirited community.
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
Hunger Action Week Food Drive
Spirit Week Students served up serious school spirit as they transformed their hallways into fast-food favorites McDonald’s, Burger King, Popeyes, and Chick-fil-A. Spirit Week’s Pep Rally was one for the books! From Bubble King of the Hill to Powder Puff, tug of war, and performances from the Pep Band, Drumline, Dance, and Cheer teams, Panther pride was on full display — with seniors claiming victory in the class competition. Over 850 students attended an epic Homecoming Dance and enjoyed a glowing disco floor, DJ Rio, photo booth, poker tables, bundt cakes, and more — a joyful finale to a week full of school spirit.
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
Welcome to the Newest Members of the Paul VI School Advisory Board Olivia Bolton ’20, is the oldest of five sisters — two PVI alumnae, Class of ’22 and ’23, and two current students, Class of ’26 and ’27. She works at Echo Origin as a graphic and web designer and helps analyze data to help projects run smoothly. On the board, she serves as head of the Alumni Committee and is excited to find new ways to strengthen the network of PVI graduates and continue building community. She says, “I wouldn’t be the person I am today without PVI. It built a strong foundation that continues to guide me in my life today — in my faith, friendships, work, and family.” She fondly remembers Spirit Week as one of her favorite traditions, a time when Panther Pride filled the air!
About the School Advisory Board: The Bishop of the Diocese of Arlington charters PVI’s School Advisory Board to
“I wouldn’t be the person I am today without PVI. It built a strong foundation that continues to guide me in my life today — in my faith, friendships, work, and family.”
vOlivia
provide guidance to the Head of School in designated areas
Mary Lynne (Bucaro) Duncan ’89, P ’21, ’29, a lifelong member
of responsibility such
of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, grew up attending Saint Leo the Great
as planning, policy
Catholic School and Church in Fairfax. She and her brothers were the first
formulation, operations,
generation to attend PVI in the 1980s, where she met her husband,
and advancement
Dave ’89. Their family’s PVI legacy continues — their older daughter and
activities, including
son-in-law graduated in 2021, their younger daughter is now a freshman,
public relations and
and several of her nieces and nephews have graduated from PVI. Mary
marketing. Members are
Lynne has been active in the PVI Rosary Moms group since 2017 and serves
selected and its officers
as a weekly adorer for Adoration in the school chapel. She is grateful to have
are elected according to
the opportunity to pray for the students, their families, teachers, and staff,
the Board’s Constitution
and volunteer as a retreat mentor. She shares, “Due to the authentic Catholic
and By-Laws, which
identity of the school and the community that surrounds it, the bonds
are approved by the
formed at PVI are rooted in truth, beauty, and goodness…which have fostered lasting, faith-filled
Catholic Diocese of
friendships.” As an occupational therapist for over 26 years, she also holds a special appreciation
Arlington. The Board
for the Options Program. While many see PVI as helping students with special needs, she has no
establishes committees
doubt that the PVI community has received more from the program and that all students benefit
to conduct studies
tremendously from learning, living, and socializing “hand in hand.”
and collect information
“Due to the authentic Catholic identity of the school and the community that surrounds it, the bonds formed at PVI are rooted in truth, beauty, and goodness…which have fostered lasting, faith-filled friendships.”
permitting the Board to make informed judgments.
vMary Lynne
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
Edward “Ted” Pezzullo P ’22, ’23, ’25 currently serves as Senior Vice President of Information Technology and Facilities at the Healthcare Distribution Alliance, a national trade association representing primary pharmaceutical distributors. Three of his children — Samantha, Benjamin, and John — attended PVI and are now at James Madison University, while his oldest daughter, Michelle, went to Bishop Ireton when the family lived in Alexandria. Ted says, “What I appreciate most about PVI is its deep commitment to nurturing faith and fostering a true family atmosphere. Some of my favorite memories are from Friday night football games — a perfect blend of school spirit, friendship, and community.”
“What I appreciate most about PVI is its deep commitment to nurturing faith and fostering a true family atmosphere.”
vTed
Siri Serngadichaivit P ’26, ’28, in addition to serving on the PVI School Advisory Board, is the Music Boosters Treasurer, and is a Parent Ambassador along with her husband, Artit. They are the proud parents of two PVI students, Bella ’26 and Ryan ’28. Siri notes, “From the moment we first toured the campus, it felt like ‘Heaven on Earth’ and since joining, PVI has continually exceeded our expectations. It is a warm, faith-filled community where our children have blossomed academically, spiritually, and emotionally, supported by caring teachers and staff. We are deeply grateful for this incredible community and for the friendships that have grown to feel like family.”
“From the moment we first toured the campus, it felt like ‘Heaven on Earth’ and since joining, PVI has continually exceeded our expectations.”
vSiri
Robert “Bob” Dadio P ’28, after a 30-year career in corporate finance at Lockheed Martin, is now retired and serves on both PVI’s School Advisory Board and the Finance Council at St. Veronica Catholic Church. He and his wife, Susan, are proud parents of Amanda, a PVI sophomore who plays Varsity Volleyball and serves as a Black & Gold Ambassador. Bob describes PVI as a caring and supportive community. He witnessed the strong community feeling at the many events hosted by the school and Panther Parent Organization (PPO). A memory that will stay with him is of the PVI Girls Volleyball team playing Bishop O’Connell at the PAC on October 7, 2025. Bob explains, “The VI Man and the many students who attended the match brought the electricity! Even though the girls were defeated in five sets, they fought admirably to the very end, and the energy in the PAC was amazing. Go Panthers!”
“The VI Man and the many students who attended the match brought the electricity!”
vBob ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SPORTS NEWS
A WCAC Championship for Girls Volleyball On Sunday, November 2, 2025, Girls Volleyball won the WCAC Championship, defeating St. John’s in three straight sets of 26–24, 25–20, and 25–23 at Catholic University. The win marks PVI Volleyball’s first WCAC title since 2018.
Photo by Jack Ladowicz ’27
“PVI was blessed to have some amazing athletes come out for volleyball this year,” shares Coach Mary Hays. “The team has great chemistry and truly acts like one big family. They encouraged each other and pushed each other to work harder and get better. Their success is a testament to their confidence in the team’s abilities as well as their own. It was an absolute privilege to watch them achieve everything they did this season.” Hays was also named WCAC Co-Coach of the Year.
Two First-Place Wins for Cheer at Regionals PVI Varsity Cheer won first place in the Medium Varsity Division as well as first place in the Medium Varsity Game Day Division at the UCA Virginia Regional Competition held Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School in Manassas.
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
National Merit Recognition Paul VI is proud to announce that senior Emma Ladowicz is one of 16,000 semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. Additionally, ten seniors were named Commended Students. Congratulations to Ryan Callahan, Theodore Darras, Dhanvi Kuppachi, Dominik Le, Katie Le, Kimberly Murphy, Svanik Palvai, Isabella Serngadichaivit, Ethan Tran, and Alicia Ugaz.
PVI It’s Academic Team Wins The PVI It’s Academic team of Finn Hargadon ’26, Indra Malli ’27, Gus Radkowski ’27, and Ethan Tran ’26 beat Walter Johnson and Wheaton on It’s Academic which aired on Saturday, October 25, 2025.
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
PVI Loves Grandparents! Paul VI was honored to welcome more than 300 grandparents to campus for Grandparents Day on Monday, November 24, 2025. The event opened with the VI Man teaching attendees a few Panther cheers, followed by musical selections from members of the choir. World language students shared phrases from several languages, and robotics students gave a demonstration of their current projects. Guests also enjoyed a video preview of the fall play, Radium Girls. The celebration concluded with milk and cookies, Advisory visits, and student-led tours of the building. Art students added a festive touch by creating personalized ornaments for the PVI Christmas tree. Our “Grand-Panthers” are an important part of the PVI Family, and it was a joy to welcome so many to campus!
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
COMMUNITY IMPACT PVI Open
Teeing Off for Our Students On Monday, September 29, 2025, our sponsors and golfers came together to make the second annual PVI Open a tremendous success! The event was a joyful day of camaraderie, community spirit, and great golf — all in support of our students and mission. The winning foursome impressed with a score of 21 under par, and together the event raised over $20,000 to benefit our students. We’re deeply grateful to all who participated and sponsored this year’s tournament — your generosity continues to make a lasting impact. We hope you’ll join us on the course next year on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Dominion Valley Country Club.
Business Partner Coffee
Building Partnerships, Inspiring Leaders
On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, PVI hosted its annual Business Partner Coffee, bringing together local business leaders and community members to strengthen connections and spark collaboration. Guests enjoyed conversations with students from various clubs — including business organizations and the robotics team — learning firsthand how their support helps shape tomorrow’s innovators and leaders. We are deeply grateful for the local businesses that continue to fuel our mission and enrich our students’ experiences. We look forward to growing these partnerships and exploring new opportunities in the year ahead. If you’re interested in getting involved or joining our Community Partners Program, please contact Dan Barlow, Director of Advancement, at dbarlow@paulvi.net.
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
JOIN PVI FOR THE REMATCH! Annual Black & Gold Gala
The Black & Gold Gala is St. Paul VI Catholic High School’s signature celebration and largest fundraising event of the year. It’s a fun evening that brings together parents, alumni, faculty, and friends of PVI to celebrate our shared mission and support our students. Each year, this event unites our community to support tuition assistance, academic innovation, and campus life. Your attendance helps ensure that every student can experience the excellence of a PVI education rooted in faith, scholarship, and service. Guests enjoy dinner, dancing, and silent and live auctions — all in the spirit of Panther pride. Last year’s Black vs. Gold Gala: Be Legendary was a beautiful testament to our Catholic mission and the generous spirit of the PVI community. The evening was filled with laughter, great food from Ford’s Wicked Catering, lively entertainment from Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos, dancing, and a healthy dose of friendly competition — in celebration of and support for our students and Campus Ministry initiatives. This year’s Black vs. Gold Gala: The Rematch will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in the PAC. Get ready for an unforgettable evening with DJ Rio — a fan favorite among our students — serving up the music. Ford’s Fish Shack’s catering company, Ford’s Wicked Catering, returns with their delicious dishes, and there will be plenty of spirited competition to benefit Campus Life and our students. All are welcome — whether you have a party of one, two, or ten! Enjoy great food, music, and company while supporting our students. No specific dress code required — just come ready to celebrate and show your Panther pride in true Black and Gold spirit!
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
“The Black & Gold Gala is an evening of grace and purpose where we honor parenthood, celebrate connection, and powerfully unite as a community to invest in our children’s future.” — MAT T & SZ E -K E I JOR D AN P ’26
ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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SCHOOL NEWS
n its 43rd year, St. Paul VI Catholic High School approaches what lies ahead with anticipation. Our Catholic community has never been stronger, boasting over 1,200 students and one of the highest percentages of Catholic community members in the school’s history. Our yield, the number of students who
Our Catholic
accept our acceptance, is also at an all-time high, highlighting the
community has never
growth we have made in our enrollment management processes. Over 850 students attended our Homecoming Dance earlier this
been stronger, boasting
fall, beautifully showcasing the resurgence of our school spirit, as
over 1,200 students
we once and for all put COVID behind us. Our PVI community is
and one of the highest
truly blessed.
percentages of Catholic
In the academic arena, we continue to help our students grow
community members in
in grace and wisdom. We have introduced new electives such as
the school’s history.
The Art of Living, Christian Leadership, and Robotics. Student and parent feedback requested additional support in areas related to scheduling and students’ mental health. As such, we have adjusted our schedule this year to allow for structured flexibility during Advisory periods and extended lunch periods. In addition, we continue to improve our student/faculty ratio to 10:1, and have an average class size of 17 students. As we look ahead, there are many opportunities and areas in which we can continue to grow. The Strategic Plan 2025-2030 reflects feedback from our constituents, including students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni. The plan outlines areas of strength and potential in the coming years. Loosely modeled on the Diocese of Arlington’s strategic plan, Paul VI’s plan focuses on a number of initiatives, including Catholic identity, financial viability and affordability, exceptional learning, enrollment management, and academic excellence. Achieving the key initiatives of our 2025-2030 strategic plan will require the support of our community, and the time, talent, and treasure of all. I appreciate your continued support of St. Paul VI Catholic High School, and am hopeful for its future.
To read more about key initiatives, you can read the entire Strategic Plan by scanning this QR code.
Laura H. Swenson, Head of School
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PANTHER TRACKS Fall/Winter 2025
SCHOOL NEWS
Strategic Plan 2025-2030 Since its founding in 1983, St. Paul VI Catholic High School has emerged as a leading Catholic high school in Northern Virginia. Building on the success of our relocation to a 68-acre Loudoun County campus in 2020, PVI has experienced dynamic growth in enrollment, faculty, and community engagement. Rooted in the pillars of the Diocese of Arlington — Catholic Identity, Academic Excellence, Financial Sustainability, Inclusion, and Community Engagement — this Strategic Plan charts our vision and priorities for 2025 through 2030.
Strategic Pillars Exceptional Learning: Meeting the needs of diverse learners is fundamental to our Catholic mission. Enrollment Management: Attracting and retaining mission-fit students remains a top priority. Catholic Identity: Paul VI’s Catholic character permeates every aspect of school life. Advancement and Development: Building a culture of philanthropy, mission-based partnership, and long-term stewardship to sustain affordability and excellence. Safety and Security: Creating a safe and welcoming environment for all. Academic Program Development: Empowering students for academic excellence and innovation.
Strategic Goals Summary Pillar
Key Goals by 2030
Financial Viability
$1 million Annual Fund; expanded scholarships; strong business partnerships
Catholic Identity
85% Catholic student body; expanded student-led ministry and retreats
Academic Excellence
New academic schedule; stronger interdisciplinary programs; expanded electives
Community Engagement
Deepened alumni and parent networks; increased Advancement events
St. Paul VI Catholic High School is poised to enter its next chapter with faith, excellence, and vision. This strategic plan honors our history while building a future filled with opportunity, leadership, and deeper Catholic community life. Rooted in Christ and committed to educational excellence, St. Paul VI Catholic High School will continue to form young men and women to be lights in the world for generations to come.
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Helping Others Find Their Voice Julianne Agudo ’14 “Peer Mentoring at PVI was one of the first times I interacted with students who needed different types of support. It helped inspire me to pursue a career related to helping and teaching others,” shares Julianne Agudo ’14. “Being an Options Peer Mentor influenced me very positively. It was something I was always curious about and wanted to do. I have a family member on my dad’s side of the family who has special needs, so it was always something I’ve been exposed to.” As a Peer Mentor, Julianne recalls accompanying her Options student to gym class as well as mentoring during math class in the Options classroom. “I enjoy that mentorship type of role and being able to work with others.” Julianne also ran Cross Country and Track, played violin in the orchestra, and was a Big Sister for incoming students. “I really appreciated my time at PVI because I felt like that was a time where my faith life started to become a bit stronger. I was more open and more in tune to the opportunity of growing my faith life. I have great memories of spending time with my friends, being involved with different clubs, trying different things — just learning more about myself,” she reflects. After graduating from Paul VI, Julianne attended James Madison University. She felt drawn to teaching but wasn’t completely sure it was the right fit. Entering as an undecided major, she met a friend studying communication sciences and disorders, which was Julianne’s first introduction to the field of Speech Language Pathology (SLP). Around the same time, she took a one-credit class that helped JMU students connect their personality traits with potential career options. “I knew I wanted to work with children, but I wasn’t sure if I wanted to commit to being a teacher. My mom worked as a nurse, so I was also interested in the medical field. SLP was a combination of both — I could work with children in schools, and I could also work with adults in the hospital setting. I liked the variety that the field had to offer.” After graduating from JMU, Julianne moved to Chicago and began a job with L’Arche, a nonprofit organization that builds inclusive communities where people with and without intellectual disabilities share life together. She lived in a Chicago duplex with other housemates/co-workers and core members — adults with different intellectual disabilities. “The job involved me ‘sharing life’ with my housemates by supporting the core members with everyday tasks such as driving them to appointments, cooking dinner with them, taking them to social events such as bowling, and making sure that they felt supported physically and emotionally.”
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Julianne earned a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Midwestern University.
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Julianne found her time at L’Arche rewarding. “It was a very humbling and eye-opening experience. I was able to learn more about what individuals with disabilities encounter once they are adults.” “It was really sweet. I really do miss that time,” she reflects. Her year in Chicago deepened her calling to help others communicate and connect. Ready to take the next step, she moved west for graduate school, earning her Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona. During her rotations, Julianne worked with geriatric patients, adults recovering from strokes and injuries, children in an outpatient setting, and children in the school setting — ultimately serving clients ranging from toddlers to geriatric patients. Today, Julianne lives in Arizona and works as a pediatric speech-language pathologist for elementary students in the Mesa school district. She also sees clients in the home health setting. Many of her school students come from challenging backgrounds, and she meets with them in small groups, which “gives them an opportunity to just take a break from everything or calm down in a smaller environment.”
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Julianne Agudo ’14 works as a pediatric speech-language pathologist for elementary students in the Mesa, Arizona school district.
rewarding to help support clients in finding their voice. It’s exciting to see clients figure out their way of how to best communicate to their loved ones.”
— J UL I A NNE AGU D O ’14 “As a speech-language pathologist, it is really rewarding to help support clients in finding their voice. It’s exciting to see clients figure out their way of how to best communicate to their loved ones.” Collaboration with others is a major part of Julianne’s work. “I spend a lot of time supporting and collaborating with parents, caregivers, school psychologists, general education teachers, and special education teachers.” Her commitment to helping others guides how Julianne approaches each day. “I want my students to know that they are loved — and that they do have a future and a path to something greater.”
Since moving to Arizona in 2019, Julianne has taken advantage of all the beautiful nature and outdoor adventure of the area.
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Walking Where God Leads Fr. Tom Yehl, YA ’96 For Fr. Tom Yehl, YA ’96, the road from Paul VI to Virginia Tech has been marked by faith, community, and an openness to God’s guiding hand. After graduating from Paul VI, Tom attended William & Mary, majoring in government. He laughs when recalling his real focus. “I was a government major, but also joke that I ‘majored in Campus Ministry.’” It was in college that Tom’s faith began to take deeper root. “I got deeply involved and started making friends in Catholic Campus Ministry, and I met the Youth Apostles community.” Youth Apostles is a non-profit organization made up of priests and laymen who work with other volunteers to inspire young people to live a Christ-like life. The sense of fellowship he found through the Youth Apostles was transformative. “It was a good brotherhood, a great community, and I built some lifelong friendships.” At an Encounter with Christ retreat, Tom met the Vocations Director for the Arlington Diocese. “After that, I started to think more about becoming a priest.” At the same time, Tom’s involvement with Youth Apostles was also deepening. “I attended a few silent retreats with them, and it was there that I really started to develop a deeper Christian faith and life.” Following college, he accepted a position as the youth minister at St. Mark Catholic Church in Vienna through the help of the Youth Apostles. “The job helped me to see what life working in the church was like, but also made me want to do more,” he recalls. “I had some really good interactions with priests who I thought were holy and inspiring. I also saw that I wanted to have community, and it seemed like I could have that community with Youth Apostles.” In 2007, Tom entered seminary at The Catholic University of America and was ordained as a priest for the Diocese of Arlington in 2012.
“There have been many times I’ve been surprised by things that I already know, that looking back, I realize I learned at Paul VI in terms of faith and community.” — F R . TOM YEHL, YA ’ 96
Fr. Tom’s priestly ministry has taken him to several parishes and college campuses. His first assignment was Holy Trinity in Gainesville, followed by a semester as assistant chaplain at George Mason University and three and a half years at Marymount University. He later spent four years at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Alexandria. In 2023, Fr. Tom began a new chapter as chaplain at Virginia Tech. “It has been a great gift to be assigned here,” he shares. “The intensity and energy of the students is really irresistible. They’re so excited about their faith.” The vibrancy of the campus Catholic community continues to inspire him daily. “There is a lot of youthful joy and energy that is hard to match, but the students are also very serious about wanting to do things and learn. There are many PVI alumni at Virginia Tech. Many vocations are formed or nurtured in Campus Ministry. We have a lot of weddings, men discerning seminary, and a few women discerning religious life.” Fr. Tom’s days as a college chaplain are both full and fulfilling. “There are three Masses on Sunday, and confessions before each Mass, so Sundays tend to wear me down,” he shares. “But we have a staff, several Youth Apostles, some non–Youth Apostles, and five Focus missionaries.” The numbers reflect the ministry’s impact — last year alone, more than 500 students participated in Bible studies. For college students seeking to grow in faith, his advice is simple and practical: “Join a Bible study. These are peer-led groups of students to talk about faith with, to talk about life, to talk about how those things connect. Every week, you have people to check in with; you have people to walk with you.”
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Fr. Tom served as the Spiritual Director for young adults from the Diocese of Arlington on the Camino de Santiago this past summer.
Fr. Tom is pictured with a group of VT students before they set out on a hike of The Cascades before classes began.
When asked what he loves most about being a priest, he shares, “Being the one who is a representative of God for people — who is able to help people see God in their life and understand God’s blessings.” Fr. Tom’s motivation is rooted in gratitude. “God has loved me, and so my response is to return that. I find that whenever I am called upon to give, I get far more back. I give God what little bit I’m able to give, and God makes it something great.” Fr. Tom still carries lessons learned from his time at PVI, where he was a member of the swim team and played clarinet in the band. “There have been many times I’ve been surprised by things that I already know, that looking back, I realize I learned at Paul VI in terms of faith and community,” he shares. He remembers Mrs. Brewer’s Justice Service class in particular. “There was the reminder that our prayer, our relationship with God, and our faith have to undergird what we’re doing for service.” His niece is currently a freshman at PVI, carrying on the family tradition. Now, as both priest and mentor, Fr. Tom continues to guide young adults to discover that same connection between faith, community, and purpose. “The best advice I can give is that you can always talk to a priest. I think so often people feel like the church is far away from them,
Fr. Tom has served as the chaplain at Virginia Tech since 2023. He is pictured at Mass on the Mountain, where he celebrated a Mass of the Holy Spirit on Bald Knob, about 30 minutes west of Blacksburg, with 200 people in attendance during the second week of classes.
but just going to have a conversation with a priest or getting back to Mass can be so helpful in our relationship with God.” This past summer, Fr. Tom served as the Spiritual Director for a group of young adults from the Diocese of Arlington on the Camino de Santiago, walking the 200-mile Primitivo route across northern Spain. The experience provided rich spiritual lessons. “It was a great reflection on how so much of the day is the work of the day, and yet we believe that God is watching over us and caring for us. And there are these wonderful moments along the path where God reveals himself, but much of the journey is just trying to be faithful, trying to do well the work that’s in front of you.” The metaphor of the Camino mirrors how Fr. Tom approaches faith and the priesthood. “We like to have the consolations and the mountaintop experiences, but God doesn’t give those to us every day. A lot of the days we are just putting one foot in front of the other.” ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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What’s New? 🅐
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Share your latest milestones and accomplishments by submitting your news to Class Notes. Email alumni@paulvi.net to be included in the next issue. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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1991
Debbie Marcinkowski ’91 🅐 recently left a 25-year career (most recently as executive director for the Geological Society of America’s foundation) and turned her lifelong passion for art into a full-time venture. “My PVI classmates would know this was long in coming! My art business is almost fully commission-based, capturing meaningful experiences for clients in paintings or custom-made, hand-painted books that mimic my own sketchbooks — but feature your memories,” writes Debbie. Some of her commissions unfold when fellow hikers on mountain trails or travelers around the world see her capturing real-time observations of the science, architecture, or natural settings in her sketchbooks. Her work can be found at www.snowlionstudios.com.
1994
James Nellis ’94 🅑 and Jessica Quinones Nellis welcomed their son, James W. Nellis III on April 14, 2025 at 3:34 a.m. James weighed 8 lbs. 1 oz., and measured 21.5 inches long.
1996
Lisa Lukacs Buchanan ’96 🅒 and her son, Stephen, embarked on a pilgrimage to every church in the Arlington Diocese this past summer into fall. Stephen, who has autism, loves visiting churches, so they drove to 85 churches in total. “It was an amazing opportunity to pray in all the beautiful churches. Stephen always talks about seeing his friends Jesus and Mary,
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so it was a great reminder that Jesus, Mary, and all the saints are truly our friends,” writes Lisa. “We chronicled our visits with photos and posts on Facebook so family and friends could also experience our pilgrimage virtually, learn about the churches, and pray along with us.” Lisa works as a substitute teacher at PVI. Lisa’s husband, Andy, and daughter, Cecilia (Class of 2024, now attending Mount St. Mary’s University), also visited many of the churches with them. The family is pictured at St. Francis de Sales in Kilmarnock (the farthest church from their house, about 130 miles away). “The outside photo is in front of their historic church, and the inside photo is inside their present church,” shares Lisa. Bishop Burbidge presented them with a stained-glass replica of St. Thomas More Cathedral’s rose window in honor of their pilgrimage church visits.
2002
Christopher Bruno ’02 🅓 has been appointed by New York Law School as a member of its senior leadership team and Chief of Economic Development Programs and Strategies, after nearly a decade leading Fairfax City Economic Development as its CEO and Director. In Fairfax, Chris supported projects
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generating more than $2 billion dollars in private investment while growing a team that focused on a historic reduction of the commercial and retail vacancy rates and the expansion of commercial business activity for Fairfax City nationally and internationally. Chris returns to New York City where he will oversee the development of a portfolio that supports strategic efforts in lower Manhattan and across New York City. His appointment reflects a strategic move by the law school to integrate academic, legal, and community resources to support economic growth.
2009
Kevin Righi ’09 🅔 is the Founder of BrandCloud, a brand marketing agency providing custom products, e-commerce solutions, and event support for organizations ranging from startups to Fortune 100 companies. He launched EMOM Fitness in 2017 as just an Instagram account to share his methodology of training and this year partnered with Paul Rabic ’13 to turn it into an online training program. See page 33 for more on EMOM.
2010
Stefanie Mueller ’10 🅕 married Charles Choate on August 16, 2025, at Mary, Star of the Sea in La Jolla, California. The San Diego–based couple celebrated the day close to their new home and were joined by fellow 2010 classmates Tayler Eagen Lynott, Jillian Goldstein Lowenfeld, Genevieve Svec Veazey, and Erin Hunter Lamba.
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2013
Morgan Howard ’13 🅖 appeared in the bright lights of Times Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, as part of the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video Presentation. The one-hour video of 500+ photographs included children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome from all 50 states and 11 countries. Morgan’s photo was selected from more than 2,600 entries in the NDSS worldwide call for photos. Morgan is a graduate of George Mason University’s Mason Life program. In 2018, Morgan served as the keynote speaker at the annual Tribute 21 Gala held in Washington, D.C. She currently resides with roommates in Fairfax and works at Saint Leo the Great Catholic School as an art teacher’s assistant. Paul Rabic ’13 🅗 represented Team USA at the 2023 Bobsled World Championships and is training with his sights set on the 2030 Winter Olympics. He is the founder of Rabic Productions, a New York–based photography company, and PR Performance, a personal training brand. More recently, he has helped launch EMOM Fitness alongside Kevin Righi ’09. See page 33 for more on EMOM.
2014
Julianne Agudo ’14 🅘 and Tony Nguyen got engaged in October of 2025 at Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona. They are planning a wedding for summer of 2027. Katie Gibbs Matré ’14 and Jackie Johnson ’14 were also present for Julianne’s engagement day. Katie is expecting a baby girl due February 2026. Photos by: Justine Grace Photo & Film ST. PAUL VI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
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Michael Morgan ’17 🅙 married Elizabeth Murphy (sister of Connor Murphy ’13) on June 21, 2025, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Georgetown. They celebrated with family and friends at the Four Seasons DC. PVI Baseball was heavily represented at the celebration. Pictured, first row: Ronnie Orie. Back row, left to right: John Ralston ’07; brother of the groom Jack Morgan ’14; brother of the groom James Morgan ’11, Michael Morgan ’17; brother of the groom Will Morgan ’20; Liam McDonnell ’17; Jeff Nolan, former PVI Baseball coach; Tyler Casagrande; and brother of groom and best man Chad Morgan ’09.
2018
Penelope Li ’18 🅚 had her wedding to Sam Pan convalidated in the Catholic Church on May 18, 2025, at The Church of St. Francis Xavier in Manhattan. PVI friends and mentors played a central role in their special day. “Mr. Robert DeBroeck did a biblical reading at my wedding, and Deacon Tom Grodek did the gospel and homily at my Convalidation. It was beautiful and I’m so blessed with all the love from the PVI community,” shares Penelope. Other PVI friends in attendance included, from left to right: Sydney Henry ’18, Catherine Hebert ’18 (also the Maid of Honor), Erin Madden ’18, Daniel Jacobs ’18, Dream Asawatungsathian ’18, Daniel Wright ’18, Peijun Qu ’17, Marilyn Grodek, Deacon Tom Grodek, and Robert DeBroeck.
2019 Maddie Mangilit ’19 🅛 is pursuing her Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Shenandoah University, having begun the program in July 2025 as part of the Class of 2027. “My pre-PA
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journey began when I was at PVI, as I was inspired to pursue medicine from Dr. Potter’s biology classes. If there are any students who are interested in the physician assistant career or want to apply to PA school and are looking for guidance, I’d love to be a resource!” writes Maddie. She can be reached at maddiemangilit@gmail.com.
2022
Gabriella Henson-Vendrell ’22 🅜 met Pope Leo XIV in October 2025 as part of the Villanova School of Business (VSB) Ryan Family Augustinian Leadership Journey. The Holy Father shared a reminder that ethics in business is essential, and that we have a responsibility to use our technology to change the systems that perpetuate the poor and hungry. “Being in the presence of the Holy Father made everything I’ve known about my faith realer than ever. The lesson he gave us was to continue to be building blocks to the mission of the Church,” shares Gabi.
Evan Furgal ’22 🅝 and Travis Perry ’22 successfully completed the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C. in October 2025. PVI classmate Nico Diaz ’22 came out to cheer them on, and Evan’s dad, Jeff, and Nico’s dad, Luis, ran the marathon as well. Group picture, left to right: Luis Diaz, Brooke Diaz, Kim Perry, Travis Perry ’22, Evan Furgal ’22, Jeff Furgal, and Nico Diaz ’22.
2025
Karina Velasco ’25 🅞 performed as 3rd chair for Violin I with the Loudoun Symphony Youth Orchestra on June 20, 2025, at Carnegie Hall in New York City during the Viennese Masters Orchestra Invitational.
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Alumni Gatherings Panthers to Teachers It’s a Panther reunion at Hovatter Elementary in Aldie, Virginia! Four PVI alumni — Nora Passamonti Parrish ’03, Annie Shanley ’21, Leslie Thomas Riccio ’04, and Olivia Male-Sterne Kim ’01 — are now colleagues at Hovatter, inspiring the next generation of students together.
Alumni Take Center Stage Nicolas Burgos ’21 and Greg Hoppe ’09 performed in the City of Fairfax Theatre Company’s production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Katherine Johnson Middle School this past July — with several nights playing to full houses. Nick played the role of Phoebus, the captain of the guard who falls in love with Esmeralda and risks everything to defend her. Greg, who had performed in four musicals while at PVI and returned for seven more as a guest alumnus, took on his first dramatic role in this production — and rose to the occasion beautifully. After the show, they were greeted by former PVI theatre teacher Mrs. Katherine Miller, current Director of Theatre Arts Mrs. Kathy d’Alelio, and friends and alumni supporters Erin Thompson ’06 and Vivi Alonso ’02 (pictured). Other alumni who came out to support and cheer on the performers were Anthony Berry ’21, Adam Hill ’21, Jak Ketron ’21, John Sullivan ’21, Rixon Webb ’21, Parmis Rahai ’24, and Ronan McConville ’25.
From the Lax Field to Fitness: PVI Lacrosse Alumni Team Up with EMOM These two former PVI Lacrosse players never played on the PVI team together but have teamed up in NYC to create something exciting! EMOM Fitness was started by Kevin Righi ’09 in 2017 as an Instagram account to share his primary training style. When Kevin moved to NYC in 2021, he reconnected with fellow PVI Lacrosse alumni Paul Rabic ’13. The two have since become close friends and in 2025 they partnered up to bring EMOM Fitness to the market as a curated fitness training program focusing on functional strength, muscular endurance, and aerobic capacity. You can follow EMOM Fitness on Instagram @emomfitness and use code PVIALUMNI for a free 30-day trial of the program.
Catholic Hokies During Virginia Tech’s Family Weekend held in September, PVI alumni from the Class of 2025 came together to attend Mass and reconnect. Several are also involved in Virginia Tech’s Catholic Campus Ministry. Pictured left to right are Adie Ferrufino, Karina Velasco, Atty Cates, Sara Ugaz, Abigail Hish, Alex Fromm, Patrick Smith, Ryan Guild.
Second Generation Panthers This year, we have over 80 Legacy Families enrolled at PVI! In October, we celebrated with our Legacy Families at a pizza party before a football game. Pictured left to right: Tim Curtin ’89, Elise Curtin ’29, Preston LaForme ’28, Beth Mielwocki LaForme ’92 Laura Reilly Lewis ’95, Reilly Lewis ’29, Rebecca DuBois ’20, Lucy DuBois ’29, and John DuBois ’90.
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No Place Like Homecoming! We were delighted to welcome alumni and their families to our annual Alumni Tailgate held on Friday, September 26, on Alumni Hill at Luke McGuire Stadium.
Nick Castelli ’06, Chas Rayome ’06, Twiggy Vasilas Rayome ’06
Casey Bridges Costello ’07, Erica Davis Collins ’02
Tracie Macleod Sparks ’99, Erin Dowe Joyce ’99, Kristin Farrell Burger ’99
Melanie Rohan Stephenson ’98, Nicole King Merz ’98, Tim Hish ’98, Cristin Jones Gaskill ’98
Future Panthers and other kids took to the field to help form the arch for the football team’s runout.
BBQ & Bluegrass
Kathleen Berger O’Brien ’05, Ashley Bunce ’05, Laura Noonan Sheehy ’05, Megan Bunce ’05, Marie Zapolski Wierzba ’05
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Monica Brown, Tim Brown ’87
PVI’s first-ever BBQ & Bluegrass Fall Fest brought together current families, faculty, staff, alumni, and alumni parents for a memorable autumn celebration during Homecoming weekend. The day began with Mass in the chapel and continued with delicious barbeque from The Bone — owned by alumni Bobby Lytle ’06 and Pat Lytle ’09 — alongside live bluegrass music from Belmont Ridge. It was a wonderful afternoon of music, food, fellowship, and Panther Pride, and we look forward to growing this new tradition in the years ahead.
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Reunited and It Feels So Good! Cheers to the Classes of 0s and 5s
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The Class of 1995 celebrated their 30-year reunion on September 27 at Open Road in Reston.
The Class of 2005 celebrated their 20-year reunion on September 27 at Sweetwater Tavern in Centreville.
🅰 Erin Franconeri Regonini, Mary Barron, Lissett Lopez Lineberry
🅰 Kathleen Berger O’Brien, Marie Zapolski Wierzba, Katie Shewmaker Torres, Laura Noonan Sheehy, Megan Bunce, Ashley Bunce, Meghan Oliver Yousefi
🅱 Stephen Hansen, Dawn Smith, Jim Ibach, Vicky Chunsanit, Sharon Polito 🅲 Mikael Habte, Sharon Polito, Lisa Nabolski Sincere, Jim Ibach, Thanita Prabhavat Glancey, Catherine Lauchengo, Sean Ryan, Lissett Lopez Lineberry, Vicky Chunsanit, Stephen Hansen, Dawn Smith, Erin Franconeri Regonini, Mary Barron, Mark Lineberry, and Melissa Hish ’94
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🅲 Jordan Green, Jennifer Roberts-Kalanda, Amanda Fulk Meadows, Kendra King Dantley, Kerry King, Maggie Bridges Malcolm
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The Class of 2000 celebrated their 25-year reunion on September 27 at Honor Brewing Kitchen in Fairfax.
🅰 John Finnerty, Mathew Hughes, Kevin Murphy, Nick Pascale, Kyle Torpey, Laura Oliveria, Casey Hingston, Shannon Simpers, Lora Kim, Casey Sullivan, Kristin Logan, Patrick Gaffney, Maureen Flynn, Jason Somensatto
🅱 Kevin Murphy, Laura Oliveria, Matthews Hughes, Casey Hingston, Shannon Simpers
🅱 Mike Maslowsky, Dan Colwell, Anna Ferris, Madison Crawford, Lauren Colella Sceviour
🅰 The Class of 2020 celebrated its 5-year reunion on November 24 at Bronson Bierhall in Arlington.
🅰 Front row, pictured left to right: Mathieu Jugnet, Olivia Bolton, Sophia Fontana, Kathryn Morales, Emily Sweeney Back row: Nick Swientisky, Jamie Radke-Fraser, Josh Cho, Ryan Jahn, Jack Reno, Reilly Glass, Diego Leiva, Gustavo Tellez-Villarroel, Frank Paquette, Caelen Grange
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IN MEMORIAM The Paul VI community extends its prayers and condolences to the relatives of faculty, staff, alumni, students, parents and friends of the school who have passed away recently. Michelle Lehner ’12 Peggy Latessa | former PVI teacher and administrator from 1998–2016; mother of Patrick ’88 and Christine ’90 Gerald Rudinsky | father of Lynn Reilly, PVI Enrollment Management Operations Coordinator Charlene Bennett | mother of Scott Bennett, PVI science teacher; grandmother of Jimmy ’16, Gretchen ’19, and Theresa ’22 Bessie C. Howard | mother of John Howard, PVI computer science teacher Earl Thompson | father of William ’27, Alex ’27, and Lauren ’27 Arthur Schultz | father of Fr. Stephen Schultz, former PVI Chaplain James (Jim) Fostek | father of Mark ’88 George Wallace “Wally” Adamson | grandfather of Cassady ’25 Spyridon Sotirchos | father of Maria ’05 Bob Richel | PVI Assistant Football Coach; father of Hailey ’13 Walter (Wally) W. Schwartz, Jr. | former PVI theatre teacher; husband of Kathleen Kellner, former PVI teacher Barbara Ostrander | mother of Laura Kruczkowski, PVI Finance Office; mother of David ’90; grandmother of Stacy Kruczkowski Farr ’08, Michael Kruczkowski ’10, and Amanda Kruczkowski McCloskey ’18 Blayr Corazzini | cousin of Bob Stulac, PVI Latin teacher Julie Becker | PVI social studies teacher from 1985-2012; mother of Angela Cross Green ’95 and Marcelle Becker Gentile ’95 Charles M. Magrum | father of Eric ’90 and Alissa ’92 Fred Michaelangelo | grandfather of Madison ’23 and Montana ’26 Adam Brown | attended PVI 1992-1993; brother of Kevin Brown ’98 Joan Park | grandmother of Jaclyn ’26 Lorraine M. Porcelli | grandmother of Charlotte ’26, Melanie ’28, and Valerie ’29 Maria Merlie Escudero | grand-aunt of Noah ’26 and Roman ’29 (Munoz) Irma Baquiold | grand-aunt of Noah ’26 and Roman ’29 (Munoz) Claudia Walk | grandmother of Alexandra ’26 and Meaghan ’28 (Krepinevich) Chau Ngo | grandfather of Amanda ’21 and Alina ’24 (Tran) James Corcoran | husband of Cathy Corcoran, former Options teacher; father of Jennifer Corcoran Ford ’90, Maureen Corcoran Donohue ’92, and Ryan Corcoran ’99; father-in-law of Rob Donohue ’92
Eternal rest, grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.
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Continuing the PVI Tradition… Celebrating Our Second Generation Panthers With over 80 Legacy Families enrolled this year, we’re grateful for all who continue the PVI tradition! Pictured are just a few — thank you for being a vital part of our Catholic community.
Dan Reinhard ’93 with Ben ’27
Garrett Parker ’89 with Lauren ’26
Mike Ferrier ’89 with Matthew ’27 Ron Ginyard ’99 with Xavier ’29
Jeff Bucaro ’87 with Angela ’27
Chris Bettini ’98 with Bryce Beth Mielwocki LaForme Tim Hish ’98 and Megan Geraghty ’28 and Future Panthers Cameron ’92 with Preston ’28 Hish ’98 with Connor ’27 and Addison
Mac Cannon ’95 and wife Amy with McKayla ’25, Bailey ’26, Liam ’27, and Future Panther Lucy
Mary Barron ’95 with Patrick ’26, Keegan ’28, and Future Panther Cairenn
Cary Ingalls Lander ’01 with Logan ’25, Liam ’27, and Future Panthers Owen, Ana, and Brady
Connor Hingston Heaney ’98 with Ian ’27 and Natalie ’28
Angela Venafro Herbert ’02 and John Cristin Jones Gaskill ’98 with Herbert ’02 with J.J. ’29 McKenzie ’27 and Bryce ’27
Dominic Taddeo ’98 with Elliana ’27 and Elisabeth ’29
Melanie Rohan Stephenson ’98 with Aidan ’29
Jonathan Ling ’96 with Landon ’26 and Ava ’27
Jeremy Campos ’95 with Emily ’29
Lissett Lopez Lineberry ’95 with Natalie ’29 and Jonathan ’26
Andy Sincere ’88 and Lisa Nadolski Sincere ’95 with Thomas ’28 and Future Panther Rachel
Lori Harkin Huse ’94 with William ’28
Brendan McCaughey ’95 with Cassandra ’27
Audrey Taylor Hubbard ’06 with Elizabeth ’26
Grace Gamboa Babbit ’93 with Conlin ’24, Sasha ’26, Future Panther Dash, and Eliana ’28
Gigi Romero Grimm ’93 and Dan Grimm ’93 with Amelia ’28 and Maddy ’26
Marco Alino ’00 with Michael Benson ’96 Noah ’25 and Meegan ’28 with Abby ’29
Nicole King Merz ’98 with Logan ’27
Karyn Stanley Jones ’91 and Chris Jones ’91 with Madison ’26 and Sophia ’29
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We’re Going Digital! Beginning with the next issue, Panther Tracks will switch to a mainly digital format. This change will help us use our resources efficiently, reduce our environmental impact, address increasing printing and mailing costs, and communicate more thoughtfully with our alumni, families, and friends. For those who truly prefer a printed magazine, we want to respect that choice. If you wish to continue receiving a printed Panther Tracks in the mail, please opt in by completing one of the following: • Email communications@paulvi.net. • Call 703-352-0925 x1401. • Scan the QR code or visit www.paulvi.net/PTmail to complete the opt-in form. Please opt in as soon as possible and no later than March 1, 2026. By informing us of your preference, you’re helping us determine how many copies to print — and supporting our efforts to communicate more intentionally with our community. This opt-in process also helps us better understand who is most engaged with our mission and stories, allowing us to strengthen outreach, stewardship, and engagement.
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