Seton Hall Prep Tower Revisited Fall 2020

THE MAGAZINE OF SETON HALL PREPARATORY SCHOOL • FALL 2020

At a time like no other, The Prep Community rallies behind our motto

HAZARD ZET FORWARD

With classrooms eerily empty, our STEM class takes a place in the national spotlight, collaborating remotely to fight the pandemic.

@ Work and @ Play • Our History–The ’70s and ’80s • Our Alumni • Galleries

A message from the President Dear Fellow Setonians, Many Prep alumni, certainly those who graduated in the ’30s through the ’60s, including myself, are familiar with the song March Setonia, sung at athletic events and alumni gatherings. They will recall the stanza “Out of storm and flame, to tradition true, you have come, Setonia, under the White and Blue.”

The “storm and flame” was a reality that tormented The Prep from its very beginning in 1856. Some of those challenges that we endured included– the Civil War, from 1861 to 1865, three disastrous South Orange campus fires, between 1867 and 1909, the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, which killed 2,100 in the last four months of 1918 in nearby Newark alone, a decline in the school population from 450 to 266 between 1932 and 1935 due to the Depression, the effects of World War II—beginning in 1942 teachers, graduates and even some seniors were drafted or volunteered for the armed services, some even without parental permission.

PRESIDENT

For me, one thing has remained constant—I have never ceased to celebrate the 8 a.m. Mass in our Chapel. I continue to pray for you.

HEADMASTER

“Secondly, a Catholic school must teach the Catholic faith (catechesis). Schools that are truly Catholic are vibrant learning environments that promote curiosity and an openness to new ways of living and learning.

“Finally, in order to be truly Catholic, a school must teach its students and all members of the school community to reach out to others and accept responsibility for the well-being of all God’s creation (social justice). Catholic schools do not exist for their own sake. They exist for the good of their students and the communities they serve.”

Cardinal Tobin’s beliefs are what we traditionally consider hallmarks of a school’s Catholic Identity: faith, community, academic excellence and service. And because Seton Hall Prep has lived by these hallmarks, she has weathered many storms and flames before. In that same timeless spirit she will rise to today’s health, societal and economic challenges, and maintain stability as a resolute and faith-filled Catholic school.

I thank you for supporting us spiritually and financially as we make every effort to assist our families to continue as members of The Prep Community. Bolstered by the motto of the Seton Family, Hazard Zet Forward, we will meet the challenges.

Please be assured of my best wishes and prayers.

president

on the front cover— Middle of the day, nary an actual student in sight, near what would have been the end of the school year—Dave Snyder’s STEM class met online to review their work on their website that would serve as a database for essential workers and organizations nation-wide to locate and request equipment needed in their fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. Word of the project earned the group a chance to promote the effort during a Fox News national newscast and with several New Jersey newspapers and websites.

So we are no strangers to challenges. And now, since last March at school we have had to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic, remote learning and teaching, an empty school building, virtual daily prayers, the shutdown of sports and activities. Nevertheless, we continue to rise to the challenges, heartened by the spirit of Hazard Zet Forward and by our Catholic Identity.

We take our Catholic Identity seriously; it is one of the major domains of study for our Strategic Plan for the next five to seven years. Cardinal Joseph Tobin, in his recent newsletter on Our Commitment to Catholic Schools, described Catholic Identity as based on three fundamentals: evangelization, catechesis, and social justice. First, he writes, “The most important element in a school’s Catholic Identity is its commitment to make Christ present to everyone who attends the school or who comes in contact with it.

Rev. Msgr. Michael E. Kelly ’57

PUBLISHER, EDITOR

Richard C. Morris H’95 rmorris@shp.org

Rev. Msgr. Michael E. Kelly ’57 mkelly@shp.org

Michael G. Gallo ’79 mgallo@shp.org

DIRECTOR OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Matthew Cannizzo ’90 mcannizzo@shp.org

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Matthew Berman ’11 mberman@shp.org

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS PJ Candido ’11 pcandido@shp.org

Contact us at— 120 Northfield Avenue West Orange New Jersey, 07052 973.325.6430 • fax: 973.243.9274 www.shp.org • e-mail: rmorris@shp.org www.facebook.com/setonhallprep

Contributors to this issue— The Office of Institutional Advancement, Matthew Berman ’11, Marybeth Ream, Jeff Goldberg ’77, Dr. James Incardona, Lisa Sgaramella, David Snyder ’89, Sharon Verhagen, Maria Santoloquido, Rick Ingraffia, Chris Barnitt ’88, Mark Vitale ’10, Benjamin Laster, Peter Durning ’06, Aidan Dunphy ’20, Matthew Guarnuccio ’20 Photography, design, and editorial content, except where noted, by Richard Morris H‘95 For extended photo albums of the events and activities pictured in this issue, visit the Media Gallery at www.shp.org.

The TOWER REVISITED is printed by QuadGraphics, Inc., West Allis, WI, on a Harris M1000 Cover Press; a Lithoman 4x6 press and a Harris M1000 2x4 cover press

T O W E R R E V I S I T E D The Magazine of Seton Hall Preparatory School Fall 2020

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inside Scene at The Prep

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A gallery of telling images that bring into focus what The Prep is all about

Our New Headmaster

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An unforeseen Archdiocesan pastoral matter brings The Prep its first lay headmaster.

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Tested by Covid-19, We Rally

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The Prep answers the call to preserve our relationships in a virtual world.

On the Academic Front

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The year is marked by continued success in the classroom, and programs that enhance our experience.

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The Spirit Moves Us

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In a year that tested our mettle, our faith brings us together and deepens our sense of brotherhood in Christ.

In the Mailbag and Inbox

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Letters and messages keep us up to date with the latest from our alumni.

Institutional Advancement

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From all sectors of The Prep Community, support advances the school’s mission.

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We Were Energized!

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Prep activites and organizations kept spirits and energy levels high, preparing us for the trials ahead.

The Early Days

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From our 150th anniversary book— chapters six and seven remind us of life at The Prep in the second half of the 20th century.

Sharing Our Bountiful Harvest

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Prep students enrich the lives of many in our surrounding communities.

Blue and White, Into the Fray

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Prep athletes in a gallery of images, displaying the energy and skill that keep the Pirates on everyone’s “want-to-beat” list

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SCENE AT THE PREP

FACE-OFF WITH THE “NEW NORMAL” A few days after what would have been their final class day at Seton Hall Prep, a trio of seniors, with a tentative nod to the newly recommended social-distancing guidelines, stopped by the hauntingly empty building and came face to face with the unexpected reality that they would have to end their careers and say good-bye to their classmates in a manner no class had ever endured before.

May 18, 2020 June 3, 2018 33

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SCENE AT THE PREP

A ROUSING START TO THE YEAR! For The Prep’s Peer Leadership Program, Job #1 is to work to ensure that the members of the newest class of freshmen quickly discover that their new school is a welcoming place, one that will become a second home. The three dozen seniors commissioned to shepherd the ninth-graders through their first year begin their work even before the first day of class and pick up the pace as the year gets under way.

The daily lunch hour meetings with their freshman peer groups allow the seniors to help the frosh gain the upper hand with the stresses of a new social environment and a demanding academic scene.

Many of those senior-frosh relationships endure beyond graduation.

September 18, 2019

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SCENE AT THE PREP

RAISING THE ROOF AT KAIROS Theology teachers Kelly Dillon and Larry Kupferman sent the energy level through the roof at last December’s Kairos Retreat, leading nearly 50 ordinarily cool, calm and collected juniors and seniors in a rousing rendition of “Awesome God.” • By the time of graduation, nearly eighty percent of Prep students have “gone on Kairos.” The impact of the program’s message is unmistakable, not only in the spiritual life of the school but also on the day-today interactions shared by Prep students—in the classrooms, in their activities and on their teams.

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LET’S LEARN SOMETHING NEW Taking advantage of a new set of Middle States Association guidelines called “Sustaining Excellence,” reserved for schools with a long-standing documented commitment to academic excellence, for the latest Middle States accreditation process The Prep chose as its goal an examination of the ways that physical, spiritual and mental health impact the learning process. The school’s action plan adopted a wide-ranging program of activities, in part, to help students deal with stress and anxiety. The fall saw weekly enrichment opportunities for new experiences— knitting, yoga, Tai Chi, Rosary, calligraphy, poetry, meditation, blues jams, Kung Fu, among many others. • Who could have guessed that a pandemic would bring strategies for dealing with stress and anxiety to the fore.

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SCENE AT THE PREP

TEAMING UP, ON MANY LEVELS For nearly a decade Prep students have supported academic growth at Hazel Avenue and Gregory Avenue Elementary Schools in West Orange, providing weekly tutoring for their students with their homework and self-improvement packages. This year the SHP Tutoring Program added Our Lady of Sorrows in South Orange to the list of schools which now enjoy the support of more than 80 Prep students. As an outgrowth of the newest relationship, OLS extended a request for Prep STEM and Robotics students to serve as judges at the school’s 6th and 7th grade STEM Fair last winter.

• A pair of OLS students invited junior Alejandro Echaniz to test the concept behind their water treatment solution.

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At a soph

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SCENE AT THE PREP

RECOGNIZING DIFFERENT STROKES The freshman Theology classes went on a little out-of-the-classroom excursion in the first week of school, using the large collection of artwork in the hallways as a roundabout introduction to their work for the year. Ralph Dellanno ’75 led them to discover how different artists, across time and cultures, have interpreted the same subject in different ways. Here the frosh see five idealized takes on the human face.

The exercise invites the students onto an early path to the intellectual necessity of questioning and interpreting as a means to “do theology.”

September 9, 2019 13

SCENE AT THE PREP

REJOICING IN THE TOP SPOT In a moment that embodied all the positives that the school year had in store for us, flanked by his teammates senior mid-fielder Aidan Dunphy raised the state championship trophy just minutes after the Pirates thrilling 1-0 overtime goldengoal victory over St. Augustine. A true example of 20 individuals that left egos at the door every time they stepped onto the field, the squad’s singular triple crown of conference, county and state titles, and their marks of 20-1-1, 20 shutouts and eleven 1-0 victories will remain standards for many years. • The team’s success was echoed by great work displayed by other fall and winter teams and activities.

Then, March came, bringing it all to an all too abrupt end.

November 11, 2019

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Passing the Torch

Last October an unforeseen Archdiocese of Newark need concerning a critical pastoral matter in a neighboring parish impacted Seton Hall Prep, resulting in The Prep welcoming Michael G. Gallo ‘79 as the school’s seventh headmaster—the first layman to hold the position. He succeeds Msgr. Robert E. Harahan H’17, who had unexpectedly been named Pastor of St. Rose of Lima Parish and whose five-year tenure at the head of the SHP Community has left lasting and tangible effects in every area of Prep life.

Those effects were made plain in the words of members of the Class of 2020, as preserved in the dedication of this year’s Tower yearbook— He movitaved, inspired and helped me during the past four years. Without him I wouldn’t have made it this far.

Msgr. Harahan embodies what Seton Hall Prep is all about; you can clearly see each of the school’s four pillars within him… he always has everyone else’s wants and needs at heart and really made SHP a better place.

He guided me along my spiritual and educational journey over the past four years.

His welcoming demeanor gave everyone that walked through the hallways a sense of love and acceptance.

The rousing reception Msgr. Harahan received from the gathering at the July 7th Commencment Exercises as he rose to give the final blessing underlined the appreciation The Prep Community has for his many contributions to life here.

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[TOP] The sudden announcement of Msgr. Harahan’s imminent departure brought to the fore many expressions of gratitude for his guidance and his stalwart support of teams and activities—here, by the football team. [ABOVE] Just weeks later, Monsignor returned to celebrate the Feast of All Saints, finally with a chance to deliver his farewell to the student body.

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Michael Gallo’s entire professional life has been spent in the service of Seton Hall Prep. Declining an offer from St. Benedict’s Prep of a position while still a senior in college, in 1983 he heeded the words of SHP Director of Guidance Fr. Mike Kelly to “come home.” Since then he has served multiple and sometimes overlapping stints in roles in School Counseling and Physical Education, as Dean of Men and, from 2006 to 2019 as Assistant Headmaster for Operations. There he oversaw the daily operation of the school and the physical plant, supervising Activities, Athletics, College Placement, Campus Ministry and School Counseling Departments, the Learning Assistance Program and the Dean of Men’s Office. Most recently he oversaw the reorganization of the academic leadership team, coordinating the duties of an Assistant Headmaster for Faculty and an Assistant Headmaster for Academics.

The recent transition was a surprise to eveyone. “Msgr. Harahan told me on a Thursday,” Mike recalled, “saying Cardinal Tobin had re-assigned him to St. Rose Parish. I asked him who was going to be

[TOP] New Headmaster Michael Gallo addressed the gathering inducting the newest members of the National Honor Society in February. [ABOVE] Among the many hats worn during his years as Assistant Headmaster was that of the coordinator for the enormous project of bringing to a conclusion the decades-long effort towards completion of the Kelly Athletic Complex.

our Headmaster and he said that he didn’t know. On Friday morning Msgr.

Kelly called me into his office and told me that he was recommending me to the Board of Trustees as the next Headmaster. I said, ‘that’s nice, but I am not a priest.’ Then, Friday afternoon Monsignor informed me that our Board had approved, that he was sending a letter to the Cardinal, and that it would probably take two weeks for the Cardinal to decide. Three days later, on Monday morning, Msgr. Kelly called, ‘Congratulations, the Cardinal approved. You are our Headmaster.’ Everything happened so fast.”

Now, having taken a breath, Mike remarked, “I am humbled to be named the first lay person as Headmaster of Seton Hall Prep. I find it interesting that Msgr. Kelly’s family and my family were both parishioners of Our Lady of Sorrows in South Orange. We both attended OLS Grammar School and were brought up believing in faith, family, compassion and courage— things that we hold dearly here at The Prep.”

A marquee scholar-athlete while at The Prep, Mike Gallo received the Msgr. William J. Daly ’38 Award at graduation as the outstanding senior athlete, after stellar careers in wrestling and football. He later captained the wrestling team at James Madison University, where he earned his degree in Psychology. After beginning his career at The Prep, he completed his M.A. in Education at Seton Hall University, acquiring state certifications as Teacher of the Handicapped and in Student Personnel Services. He is a current member of the New Jersey and American School Counseling Associations.

A continuing source of pride for Mike Gallo has been the Harrassment, Intimidation and Bullying Awareness and Prevention Program (HIB), which proactively assists students with appropriate decision-making strategies related to social media and personal interactions. He was a key player in a wide variety of capital improvements over the last decade, including the new Dining Hall, the John J. Murphy ’52 Science Center, and the completion of the 44-acre Kelly Athletic Complex.

“I continue to believe that I am blessed to be able to call Seton Hall Prep my home for the past 37 years. I love being here and I strive to make a difference in our students’ lives. The best quality of a leader is the example that one sets for others. Msgr. Kelly and Msgr. Harahan have set some remarkable examples.”­

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Facing down one challenge after another posed by a worldwide pandemic, The Prep Community forges ahead…

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Preserving Relationships in a Virtual World

Mirroring the long-distance relationships helping the community to survive the spring lockdown, the cast of “Man of LaMancha” celebrated what should have been their Friday night performance. [opposite]- Long distance Junior Theology with Larry Kupferman, Freshman Algebra with Seann Farrell, Junior History with Rick Ingraffia, Organic Chem with Dave Moore, and Kelly Dillon’s “Crash Course in Morality” 18

E WERE ROLLING ALONG SO WELL ! The year had gotten off to such a great start—a new enrichment program that offered possibilities of exploring new interests, budding relationships percolating among peer leaders and their freshmen, a cohort of newly commissioned Eucharistic Ministers, Days of Service, Kairos, the Christmas Send-off and Concert, A Christmas Carol, football’s conference title, soccer’s state championship. Even the shock of the loss of Msgr. Harahan to a parish was soothed by the smooth transition to the new Headmaster, in the well-known person of Michael G. Gallo ’79.

But as 2019 ended there began to appear inklings of mysterious health issues simmering in China, arriving with the confirmation of a dozen cases of a pneumonia of unknown cause—ten days later, the first death there. Another 10 days and three other Asian countries and the US had cases; Wuhan was locked down by Chinese authorities.

The end of January brought the declaration of a global health emergency, announcement of the first death outside China and the quarantine of a cruise ship in Japan. On Febrary 7 the White House posited that warmer weather would kill whatever it was. On the 11th, coronavirus disease 2019 got its name: Covid-19.

By Febraury 26 France, Italy and Iran had emerged as focus points with 3-digit cases, with the first confirmed US death coming just two days later. In the second week of March, the president declared a national emergency.

Around this time the global issue became a local one for Seton Hall Prep, as myriad governmental and scientific entities began to go at each other over the significance of the data, the size of allowable gatherings, the use of masks, the efficacy of untested drugs, and countless other issues.

Sensing that whatever was brewing could well pose a crisis for education, the Headmaster had gathered a Covid Task Force by the last week of February. Comprising Assistant Headmasters Dr. Jim Incardona and Lisa Sgaramella, and a dozen other administrators, the group attempted to reach out for guidance from government officials. However, a pair of conference calls with the governor’s office and the Archdiocese Education Office the week of March 2 offered not much more than rehashes of TV news and little in the way of helpful guidance: make a plan for distance learning; cough into your elbow; wash your hands. Trying for a considered response that would still leave us prepared, Lisa Sgaramella met with department chairs to instruct all teachers to have a distance learning plan in place within a few days. Some had seen that coming and already discussed it with their students.

“On Thursday, March 12, things really heated up,” she recalled later. “The day started with the announcement that the NBA, in the middle of pre-game warm-ups in Oklahoma City, had halted their season. Seriously?! It was at that point that we began to ponder what if the teachers aren’t ready? Our plan became to hold school on Friday to tell the students to prepare for distance learning, to take their books home just in case and to provide tech support for students that needed it.” That was to be followed three days later on Monday with teachers coming in for a Tech Preparedness Day, without students, allowing the weekend for administrators and Prep Tech Specialists Rod San Cristobal and Dave Snyder to plan the training and solidify what the philosophy for distance learning would be, in case classes needed to be cancelled. That plan was sent to The Prep Community. With the previous week’s fruitless pair of conference calls at least potentially offering some hope of direction, advice or guidance about schools, it looked like there still was time to do things in a measured way.

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[r]- The Prep’s social media outlets celebrated the contributions of SHP students, parents, siblings, cousins and alumni on the front lines in the fight against Covid-19.

Then things went off the rails.

With no warning, at 2pm on that same Thursday, the Governor’s office, with no specific mention of schools, dropped the bomb banning all gatherings of 250 people or more. While the feeling at The Prep continued to be that there was time, other area schools were quick to announce closings, while others made no announcements. Within an hour Mike Gallo and the Task Force met, deciding to move the Tech Preparedness Day for teachers to the very next morning, with detailed sessions to be devoted to ensuring that the faculty would be ready for a prolonged period of teaching from home. That evening the word went out to the students and their families that remote learning would begin on Monday! For Seton Hall Prep, from that moment on, everything was new.

Everything was new in homes as well. This new way of

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[top]- Lockdown wouldn’t stop Director of Service Learning Vinnie McMahon and his students from continuing their visits to Canterbury Nursing Home and other service enterprises. [above]The sudden need to prepare for new ways of teaching brought the faculty together one final energizing time on March 13, sharing ideas, techniques and tech expertise.

learning would be a far depar- accustomed to in a real classture from the experience of room. He advised the teachall concerned. The idea that ers that, from the students’ remote learning was not the perspective, this could wind simple flip of a switch that up feeling like “homework on would have online classes be a steroids.” Conversations with televised version of the normal students in the run-up had classroom would ruffle more revealed their fears about the than a few parental feathers in quantity of work they might be the early going. confronted with. Consequently, Introducing the agenda he reminded his colleagues to at the Tech Preparedness Day, “think entirely about the quality Dr. Incardona hit the nail on of the work we assign instead the head in the first sentence of the quantity. Extra quantity of his remarks about what this does not equal more learning.” all would mean for students He also pointed out, “Much and teachers alike: “We will of the motivation to learn is need to be aware of how much social, and that will be removed reading students will be doing as they sit at home at their cominstead of listening, how much puters. Sitting for a six-hour writing instead of speaking. We school day at the computer, will need to be empathetic in and then for additional time for our expectations and plans for homework, will not only not our students.” work, but would be unhealthy.

Foreshadowing what The students will need to shift would play out over the next from a passive mode of using months, he reminded every- their phones and computers, to one how much technology is one of active learning. They have needed to simulate the listen- never done this before, and neiing and speaking students are ther have we.”

Teachers rallied, sharing ideas, helping one another, particularly on technical issues. Incardona noted later that he had never seen such unity and solidarity among the faculty in responding to such daunting challenges: “It was like a shot of adrenaline.”

With the news now looking like this was definitely a global crisis, nobody knew its exact scope or the duration.

Teachers had barely a weekend to prepare, students even less. So, as the era of remote learning began on March 16, for a while some students reacted as if they had been treated to an extended snowday. But it didn’t take long for the euphoria to be tempered, depending on family circumstances, by uncertainty and sometimes fear. Music teacher Mike Neglia ’05 reported that a couple of early emails from students claimed, “This is like a vacation.” But a week later their tune changed to

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“Are teachers going crazy with web portal’s messaging cen- remotely as when I am actualter. Although online meet- ly in school. I’ve been more this too?”

Consequently, administra- ings would follow the nor- stressed out than ever.” tive decisions initially centered mal daily routine, instruction Other veteran teachers on a compassionate approach: would become asynchronous, learned new things about their give everyone time to adjust; meaning that teachers would students in the remote enviensure that everyone had the post assignments and activi- ronment. History teacher Rick right technology; emphasize ties and offer feedback to stu- Ingraffia noted that some of his a single point of communica- dents’ responses, but not nec- “middle-of-the-road students tion and a single set of stan- essarily in real time. The teach- who tended to goof off in class” dards. The focus became find- ers’ standard called for at least were actually better and more ing a format and standards one video or Microsoft Teams serious with remote learning. that would meet the needs of meeting per week. This new He said that while classroom students first and teachers secpersonalities keep some stuond. Concerns centered on the dents from speaking up at students: What was their life times, in the online discussion going to be like? As the spring rooms, “I had the opportuniwould progress, the parents, ty to see what all the students many of whose lives and cirwere thinking on a topic, and cumstances would be comI read some great things completely upended, more and ing from sophomores in high more would come to be part school. Many of our students of that circle of concern. truly have a sense of justice. It Much of whatever success has been incredibly beneficial the school would enjoy in movto me as a veteran teacher.” ing to a distance learning sceIt wasn’t only students that nario was due to the school’s missed the social interaction strategies employed over the regimen would have the goal of the new normal. English past several years in getting of simulating a more mature, teacher Sharon Verhagen The Prep’s personnel and infra- college-type learning environ- remembered, “Getting through structure up to speed techno- ment, with student learning the spring trimester has been logically. The adoption and becoming more self-directed. challenging. I often say I do implementation of Office 365 Teachers, even the old- four or five live performances over the last few years would schoolers, became innovators, a day. During the Covid-19 prove critical to students and with the website portal and vid- quarantine I had to take my faculty in meeting the chal- eos taking center stage. Test- ‘show’ on the road without the lenges encountered in the last ing slowed down; assignments support of a live audience.” four months of this school year. were given in smaller doses; The social aspect of the New standards set for many made phone calls to educational experience was teachers resulted in everyone check on students; due dates echoed by members of the re-evaluating their own per- were massaged; policies were School Counseling Department. sonal standards and policies. reconsidered, re-written and Director Chris Barnitt ’88 was Assignments, lessons, projects re-publicized. struck by the thought that “few and the like were all on the This shift to a new way of seek out a career in education table. One teacher remarked, teaching didn’t come easy. The because they want to sit in front “we were all new teachers back challenges were enormous of a computer screen. We all in March.” and at times exhausting. As understand that The Prep ExpeEach student would see May arrived, Spanish teacher rience is rooted in relationships. his day’s activity laid out for Maria Santoliquido remarked, When Covid-19 upended all him at 8:45 a.m. via the school “I worked at least twice as hard that was familiar, the prevail-

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We were all new teachers back in March.”

Virtual get-togethers offered opportunities for mutual support.

Chris Barnitt launched open-invite Friday lunches. • Mike Neglia launched his Enrichment Block Percussion Jams. • Rich Baird’s Crew Team talked about next year. • Chairman John Stanczak brought the Theology Department together for liftings of spirit.

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[below]- Dave Snyder’s STEM class project gained a place in the national spotlight and in the conversation about how to support frontline health workers in their efforts.

ing question was how we would preserve relationships in a virtual world.”

Beginning in mid-March, as things played out it became clear that School Counseling was becoming a “reconnaissance team,” on the lookout for how things were going in students’ homes. Customary “old-normal” visits to classrooms for checkins with students were replaced by relentless portal messaging or phone calls to students and parents. Emailed pep-talks attempted to keep students focused and engaged during trying circumstances that sometimes emerged in families or simply from working in isolation.

Counselors created online spaces like the Hazard Zet Forward Groups, a time and place set aside for students to just talk about anything and everything, 22

from movies and Netflix, to anxieties and strategies for self-care.

Similar virtual lunchtime meetups were organized among faculty departments or random colleagues to foster fellowship and to provide weekly support. Advisors Ralph Dellanno and Mark Vitale moved their real-world meetings of Parents on a Journey, a group of parents that have experienced the loss of a loved one, into the virtual world, sharing the joy of seeing one another and talking about how everyone was handling the lockdown.

Way back at the start, what now look like minor issues were magnified into stress points: no toilet paper, no hand sanitizer, no movies, no shaking hands, no Sunday Mass. The list grew as time went on as we banished haircuts, singing, screaming, restaurant dining, manicures.

Conflicting information about how the country was doing or what people should or shouldn’t be doing continued to emanate from Washington and other local authorities as scientists and politicians duked it out over versions of reality. Those conflicting messages didn’t help.

Pictures of overtaxed hospital ICUs and stacked up coffins at funeral homes only upped the level of anxiety and frustration.

Here on Northfield Avenue no image left a more poignant impression of the challenges that Prep families were suffering than the sight of Msgr. Kelly, in response to a call from an alumni family, leaving his office one April morning to meet a hearse outside the main door, carrying the body of Richard McHugh, Class of 1947, to offer a final blessing in lieu of a funeral mass,

as it headed to a mortuary.

In addition to students and often their siblings attempting to do their work in a completely new way, exhausted parentsturned-tutors-or-Dean-of-Men were often trying to work from home. In the weeks before what should have been the end of school, as knowledge that entire home environments were subject to the ever-growing stresses imposed by lockdowns, quarantines, job losses, tech demands and the sickness itself, The Prep’s Covid Task Force and School Counselors twice phoned every student to check in and offer a virtual shoulder to lean on.

Even though live classes had been shut down, many students found ways to stay involved in important projects. The most notable example was Dave Snyder’s STEM* *

class, which early on responded to the desperate need of hospitals and first responders for personal protection equipment and other supplies for the fight against Covid-19.

In prior years the STEM class had immersed itself in made-forTV projects like launching weather balloons to the edge of space, or satellite trackers into the currents off New York Harbor and Long Island. But presently, the worldwide pandemic kept the group’s thoughts anchored closer to home.

With contact moving online, the group put their virtual heads together on the idea for a national online database, where frontline workers and organizations could request needed equipment and the public and corporations could respond to the particular need by sending materiel directly

STEM: science, technology, engineering mathematics

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vation “the students dialed in to a different gear.”

The project gained national attention with a spot on Fox News on April 13. Although the website was still somewhat clunky in Version 1.0, it was accessible to essential workers to request donations and for the public to respond with help. But the team knew that in order to be taken more seriously, the website needed some professional help to work out some kinks.

“Since we knew by then we might have bitten off far-toolarge a project,” Snyder remembered, “we Googled the top web development companies in New York and found Syberry mentioned on two different sites. We emailed about twelve of them, asking them to volunteer for our project. Within one hour, to the hot spot. The result of their the Executive Vice President efforts was the website covidre- of Syberry, Tim Procopovich, sourcenetwork.org. “The kids emailed me back: David, Please absolutely knocked this out of let me know what exactly you the park,” Snyder said. “It was need, and the whole power of really impressive how quickly Syberry will be at your service. they jumped on the task, but We are in Austin, Texas and most importantly, their enthu- in NY we have a few large cussiasm to do this was incredi- tomers and some local presble. In my 25 years of teaching, ence due to this. But for this I’ve realized that when students job we can be even on Mars. are working on a project that is The entirety of our process is selfless and will help somebody designed for remote work. We else, that’s when you see their would be glad to help you with motivation kick in more than this cause. Tim. ever. That’s what happened in “This project would have this case.” been an epic failure without this The motivation became company. We needed a robust very personal when class mem- website quickly. Only a profesber Jordin Lamothe let Snyder sional web development comknow that his aunt had passed pany could have done what we away on April 4 at age 45, due to wanted as quickly as we needCovid-19, leaving behind a hus- ed it.” In a sign of the spirit that band and three children. Snyder had spread through a growing noted that with that extra moti- number of American corpora-

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tions Procopovich repeatedly downplayed what the overall project would have cost if the STEM class were a paying client. At project’s end, the team came to understand that this project would typically have cost upwards of $25,000.

The new site launched on April 30, and featured 35 essential organizations, from New Jer-

The kids absolutely knocked this out of the park.” sey to California, all in need of donations. Snyder explained, “We really need the companies now to become donors. We have hospitals and places in need coming to us. Now we need people to get them those resources.

“The team’s project, in addition to providing important support to hospitals, nursing homes and first responders, gave our students an authentic perspective on the reality of navigating the creation of a website from scratch. Even though Syberry wrote the code, they did that in full accordance with The Prep team’s design, resulting in one of the cleanest and easiest websites around for donating resources. Most importantly, all of this was done with gratitude in mind for all of the people that are helping the sick right now. That is really the spirit of this whole website and idea. If

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I were one of these students, I would remember this experience for a lifetime.”

The STEM guys were not the only ones that were thinking of others during the months they were staying at home. Day by day the school added to its social media celebration of the contributions of frontline workers— all alumni and family members from the Prep Community. Just before the end of May, Director of Service Learning Vinnie McMahon sent a shout out to a score of students that were “using this quarantine to make the world a better place,”— as first responders and with hometown projects to help families in need.

An early March message from the school announced that, in addition to classes, activities and athletics were cancelled.

Nevertheless several teams built for the stage or for the field found ways to come together for support.

Opening night of the spring musical Man of LaMancha had been slated for April 2. The 40 members of the cast had been working for months, from even before the novel coronavirus had reared its head thousands of miles away. In a touching effort to take the edge off their own and the community’s disappointment at having the plug pulled on the production, the cast gathered online on what would have been the Friday night of their three-day run. Matt Guarnuccio was to be Don Quixote, alongside Kayleigh Cahill as his Dulcinea and Dan Mottesi as Sancho.

With spectacular success in the athletics realm customary, no

matter the season, it’s no wonder that, with the pandemic imposing a premature close to the spring sports season, there was more than a little anguish shared by teams and fans alike. The sudden end to the lacrosse season came just one day after the final roster had been announced; the baseball roster was set for posting the following day. Both teams were primed for greatness, with national and statewide pre-season recognition in the wind. Nevertheless, a couple of coaches brought their spring teams together online to support one another and to encourage the players to continue to work out on their own in hopes that somehow a partial season could be rescued before June. New lacrosse coach Ross Turco even brought in alumni guest speakers to occupy the Zoom window next to his to review old Prep game tapes and to discuss the college experience. Rutgers twotime All-American Jules Heningburg ’14, and member of the Yale University national championship team Brian Tevlin ’17 visited with the squad in March and April.

As we headed into summer, ordinary Americans, looking for but not always finding consistent guidance or example from their leaders, clashed with each other about whether to stay at home or to get back to business. Arriving at our belated July commencement day, in many areas of the US the curve had been fattened, rather than flattened. The early reopenings in more than two dozen states had been rolled back, sending large portions of the population back to where they were 23

in March and April. By the July 7 graduation, the US had 3 million confirmed cases, most in the world, and 130,000 deaths. In the days immediately following, the country added more than 60,000 cases on each of three record-setting days in a row. While the White House had reported several times that we have it under control, the nation’s leading health expert countered that we were “knee deep in the first wave.” It’s no wonder that students were pressed and stressed from many angles, and searching for ways forward.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… Three months worth of reflections from a pair of high profile Prep seniors offer moving yet down-to-earth insights on how this entire unfinished episode has impacted not only their senior year but also their entire lives. Valedictorian, McIntee Award recipient and Seton Scholar Matt Guarnuccio, and All-State soccer headliner, NJSIAA Scholar Athlete and Seton Scholar Aidan Dunphy accepted the invitation to keep journals during the spring, to contribute both to the recorded history of the school and to that of their families. Excerpts (mostly unvarnished) reveal the ups and downs of their efforts to deal with the present, as well as their thoughts on prospects for the future—

my work until I’m done, usually around 1pm…If you told me a few months ago that everything would shut down for weeks because of a pandemic I would have told you no way. But apparently 2020 is a new Mayan calendar end-of-the-worldin-2012 deal, because I swear the world is ending and it’s on fire and we can’t seem to have a way of figuring out how to solve problems. I think its because no one can agree on anything. My friends left a few hours ago to go into isolation with their families and it sounds like a movie…One thing that really sucks, and I mean it’s really hurting me, is the whole noAidan, Mar 19- I remem- gyms-allowed-to-open thing. I am ber when I was younger playing no gym rat by any means, but I’m a game called Plague Inc. where playing college soccer in 5 months you create a disease to wipe out for Johns Hopkins and just came the planet, [with that in mind] back from having mono so I’m out the way I’ve watched this situation of shape and I need to be prepared grow over the past few months is to play 22-year-olds. So, yeah, it’s fascinating. School-wise it has screwing me over big time and I been pretty productive. I get up don’t know how I’m going to adapt every morning around 9am to do to this situation.

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Though the plug had been pulled on their season, the lax team still found ways to support each other.

Matt, Mar 18- The other day, I was so bored, I decided to do some good old fashioned Italian cooking. I made pasta dough and cooked up some fresh ricotta from scratch, and I made ravioli. It took me quite a few hours, and, of course, as Italians do, I made far too much. By the end, I was exhausted but I felt like I had some sense of accomplishment. I had done something with my time that not only got me off the couch but also let me embrace a skill from my roots that I will be able to carry on with me through college. I can picture myself in my dorm’s kitchen cooking a meal for my friends and me. Food brings people together; the company nourishes the soul. While I may not be able to enjoy that at this time, at least I know I have the skills to do so when things

brighten up in the future.

Matt, Mar. 19- I must admit, I can see this is going to be a struggle for many. The economy is tanking, my boredom is spiking, my brother is home from Notre Dame for the rest of the semester, and I only hope that I’ll be able to ship out to ND in the fall to start my own journey there.

The news is pretty dark.

Aidan, Mar 20- TGIF. Since it is Friday I decided to take a nice “enrichment” block snooze and wake up at 11 to do work.

Thankfully I’ve been very on top of my work so today I just had a few things to do for Chemistry and Math. Speaking of Math, I have absolutely no idea what’s going on in it. We’re reviewing for the AP test that just got changed to an at-home 45-minute test this year, which is going to be so weird I can’t even fathom how that’s going to work…This no-school thing really gives a lot of time to dive into something

new and creative and for me it’s been pretty productive…Another thing I love about this whole situation is that I can have food any time I want. Snacking is a must in the morning doing work, and chilling afterwards with no homework on weekends is awesome! All the news stations keep talking about is the stock market dropping over and over again and it’s like the world is ending… the DOW just dropped 200 points over the past hour and the president is talking and it all sounds like nonsense to me. Little update, the Dow is down 920 today and the stock exchange is shutting down indefinitely. Wow! Matt, Mar. 20- So today we had a small victory, which in times like this means everything.

My grandmother is in a nursing home, and she just finished five rounds of radiation for inoperable lung cancer. Obviously, this has been an emotionally trying time for us, so to not be able to visit her on top of it is very difficult…Anyways, to the good news!

The people at the nursing home were able to set her up with an iPad for FaceTime, which of course she has no idea how to do herself. To see the smile on her face when she picked up the phone was just priceless. Like an overwhelming majority of people in nursing homes, with the place on lockdown, she has nothing to do. To be able to put a smile on her face was just so amazing, and to have her tell us she loved us all left me with a warm feeling I can’t even begin to describe…

As I write this, I can’t help but think of how much I miss The Prep. When I found out about my grandma’s condition, I was a mess. This did not go unnoticed by either the faculty or my peers.

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At one point, I had no less than six different people stop me in the hallway… That’s the type of place SHP is. We care about each other and we treat each other with a level of respect that you don’t find in other places. I miss that place more than ever.

Aidan, Mar 21- Just when I thought this stuff can’t get worse I wake up this Saturday,…and now the governor shut down the state starting tonight at 9… It’s so boring, not going to lie. It’s starting to hit me, like, I want to go out and hang with friends and have fun but I can’t and its looking like things like prom and graduation are going to be canceled and you know I just did not expect this. I just hope I don’t get sick. Dear future readers, I hope you’re having fun reading about this stuff in textbooks and on history TV shows because it is actually pretty cool to be immersed in things that I have read about growing up.

Aidan, Mar 23- Right now there’s a stark divide among my friends, and even members of my family. Some people really don’t see how this could do real damage even though the facts are right in front of them and it’s a shame because I think that if they knew someone who was sick or died from this virus then they would have completely different feelings. It says something about human psychology during crisis…Unless it affects them personally, they will never truly develop the right feelings about it. Some people I know are taking this seriously and staying inside, like I am trying to do, but I see how it could be too much. I do see a big difference between doing my work at home in the room compared to the din-

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ing room of the LBI house with friends. Like [School Counselor] Mr. McKenna said, learning as a community works because of the atmosphere. Also, my sleep schedule is so messed up, I go to bed at, like, 2:30 because I cannot stop Netflix and then I have to get up for 9am Math class, which I’m still lost in. I can tell that in a couple days or weeks my family is going to go for each other’s throats because everyone is annoying each other.

Matt, Mar. 22- I went down the shore today just before the governor said to stop doing so,

I think this is gonna be a weird few months at home.” and I met up with two friends.

Unfortunately, I have a feeling this may be the last time I see anyone for a while. The news just keeps getting worse and worse. My family is basically on lockdown since someone on my dad’s floor at work tested positive, and we’re all starting to go a little stir crazy… On the way home, we stopped at my dad’s parents’ house, and it was really good to see them. They’ve been locked up inside since this thing started spreading, so we did a little faceto-face chat while we stood in their driveway as they were in the garage. They live in a 55-and-up community with a bustling social life, so I’d imagine being on lock down has been pretty rough for

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them. Then again, after 54 years of marriage, you probably learn to co-exist pretty well.

Aidan, Mar 24- This house is burning…People fighting, dogs going crazy, I needed out today so I drove to Harding, first time driving in a while…I have absolutely no motivation to do anything related to school at home. It’s quite annoying so I spent, like, 2.5 hours today on work, then called it quits. I’ve been trying to exercise everyday now. When I went out today, it’s, like, there’s no such thing as social distancing.

I saw people running, hanging in parks, and everything. Like, people, stay home!

Matt, Mar. 24- Okay, I think this is gonna be a weird few months at home. Dad’s office is closed, my brother’s school is officially closed, my twin sister is home, and so is my mom. Let’s just say we’re not exactly used to all being together this often for this long. Then again, my dad is working and the kids are all doing school work, but still, it is kind of crazy.

Aidan, Mar 27- All the days are blending together at this point. Honestly, I have given up on online school. It’s just so boring and I have so much stuff I could be doing that’s more fun in my room alone. I really need to stop going to bed at 2am but I am proud that I have been keeping the same schedule every day, school, then working out then free time. I have been keeping in touch with friends though, which is good over Snapchat, FaceTime, and Call of Duty, but, honestly, I’m over this stuff. The virus is getting really bad here and my town is increasing in cases about 3 per day and the United States just became the #1 most infect-

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ed country. I think it’ll get more scary when someone I know has it, because, as of right now, I don’t know anyone but I’m sure I will because the curve is not going to be flattened.

Matt, Mar. 27- Today we did something pretty cool: Mom and I drove to Target and they put our stuff we ordered online straight into the trunk. We didn’t even have to get out of the car. It’s pretty awesome to see how businesses adapt.

Aidan, Mar 28- What’s up journal? Today I woke up super late around 1pm because I went to bed at 4am. Whoops! But for real, I’m way too bored and need more structure in my life than this… Like, for real, I need this to be over ASAP because I need my friends and lowkey even need school (not the work though, because I’m so over school work it’s crazy). The puppies are fun to play with too!

Matt, Mar. 28- So today was the Pope’s Urbi et Orbi address to the world. As the Pope put it so beautifully today, now in this time of struggle we find strength. Now is when we truly get to sift out in our lives that which is necessary and that which is superfluous. Our lives are full of so much extra stuff that gets in the way of God, and now we can truly begin to see what it means to need.

Aidan, Mar 30- My sleep schedule is %$@#! I’m not even joking. I need to get that in order because 3am is not late anymore and I’m just not tired at all. I really need more structure in my life and there’s absolutely zero shot I can put up with my family for another month. The food also sucks because my parents won’t go to the store so we

have, like, random meals and I need real food…I really hope and pray that all the healthcare workers are staying safe during these times because it’s scary for them. Also, I’m sorry, but Organic Chemistry is the hardest class I have ever taken in my entire life and it makes zero sense and I have to teach it to myself but then I also have a %$@#! test Friday on self-taught $#&@!—mental breakdown has happened.

Aidan, Mar 31- I almost punched my computer today trying to record a Spanish conversation and it just did not work for the first 15 minutes (there was a 30 min. timer to finish it, too). I am definitely losing my sanity and there’s no shot I can go another month without some contact from the outside. It’s really starting to hit me that my senior year is gone. I won’t walk the halls as a student ever again. I won’t be able to meet my frosh peer group.

It just won’t happen and that’s a bummer. I wish I could go back but knowing I cannot means that it just hurts to think about. The puppies were crazy today and the house is slowly burning… I just can’t do it anymore. I wonder what everyone else is doing.

Matt, Mar. 31- Tonight I did a Zoom with some friends from the musical. Kind of sad since this was supposed to be the night of our first dress rehearsal, but, nonetheless, it was really good to spend some time with some friends even if through a computer screen. I also got to do a video chat earlier today with Mr. Barnitt, who I normally see on a daily basis when I stop in his office before school. I miss the relationships that I have with people like Mr. Barnitt. These relationships are my SHP experience, and the • continues on p. 120

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RINGING TO CONCLUSION A YEAR LIKE NO OTHER, after weeks of conversation and deliberation

about how to make it happen, Seton Hall Prep graduated the 222 members of the Class of 2020 with a ceremony unlike any seen in decades. Sandwiched among a string of days beset by typical summertime thunderstorms, sunny skies smiled upon the July 7th Commencement Exercises at the Kelly Athletic Complex, while social distancing, masks and gloves served as reminders of the challenges that had confronted the graduates and their families since March, and would continue for the forseeable future.

CLASS OF 2020 COMMENCEMENT AWARDS

Spanish Studies Medallion Spanish Studies MARIO LUZURIAGO

Archbishop Thomas A. Boland Award Most Representative Setonian Presented to that Senior who, by his Accomplishments and in his Person, most Exemplifies the Ideals of this Institution; and whose Values, Character, Maturity, Successes and Achievements Personify the Fulfillment of our Mission.

DANIEL MOTTESI

Chinese Studies Medallion Chinese Studies KENNETH TAYLOR

Vincent A. McIntee H’66 Award Presented to that Senior who has provided Consistent and Substantial Service to all Aspects of Life at Seton Hall Prep, without Consideration of Self or Neglect of his Studies.

MATTHEW GUARNUCCIO John B. Murray ’59 Award Presented to that Senior who embodies the four Pillars of Seton Hall Prep— Family, Faith, Compassion and Courage— and has humbly served The Prep Community.

HOLDEN COLTER Ralph J. Ciccone Medallion Mathematics MICHAEL MASSA Rev. Martin J. Foran Medallion Calculus BC NOAH WEBBER Aldo Itri Medallion Calculus AB CONNOR COOK Statistics AP Medallion Statistics AP PATRICK BLAESSER Harry H. Dawson Medallion English Studies GEORGE HADDAD Hugo Senerchia Medallion Humanities CONNOR COOK Edward Jennings Medallion Literary Achievement NICHOLAS FERRARA Richard E. Binkowski Medallion Cinema Studies MICHAEL SULLIVAN Andrew G. Mitzak Medallion Social Studies NICHOLAS RAUSCHENBERGER United States History Medallion United States History JAKE SHOEMAKER Language Studies Medallion Language Studies MATTHEW GUARNUCCIO Malcolm Ewing Medallion Classical Language DEREK HART

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Anthony Lupica Medallion Italian Studies SALVATORE VITO SEAL OF BI-LITERACY IN ENGLISH & SPANISH JOSEPH LABRADOR, MARIO LUZURIAGA, THOMAS MARTYNOWICZ, DANIEL SADEK, JUAN SEBASTIAN NIEHENKE SEAL OF BI-LITERACY IN ENGLISH & CHINESE YULIN XIONG Fine & Performing Arts Medallion MATTHEW GUARNUCCIO Joseph A. Neglia Medallion Music Studies ANDREW LUCAS Joseph A. Neglia Medallion Music Performance MATTHEW GUARNUCCIO Theresa A. Neglia Medallion Theatre Arts PETER NASCONE Joseph J. Hoffman Medallion Public Speaking NICHOLAS CUMMINS Sciences Medallion Science SLOK JARIWALA John T. Theroux Medallion Physics JAMES IACOVITTI Dr. Joseph P. Kane Medallion Chemistry NOAH WEBBER Biology Medallion Biology CONNOR COOK Dr. Richard Scaine ’52 Medallion Environmental Science WILLIAM SPIES Computer Technology Medallion Computer Science CHRISTOPHER TARABAY Frank J. Tracey Medallion Physical Education DANIEL SAVINO Msgr. John McNulty Medallion Theology NICHOLAS RAUSCHENBERGER Fr. James Foley ’28 Medallion Peer Leadership COLIN FLAHERTY National Hispanic Recognition Award DANIEL MOTTESI

National Merit Scholarship Program Commended Students BRIAN ARNOLD, DUNCAN CARAMICHAEL, CONNOR COOK, AIDAN DUNPHY, ANDREW GILLE, MATTHEW GUARNUCCIO, JOSEPH LABRADOR, MICHAEL MASSA, BRIAN PHILLIPS, NICHOLAS RAUSCHENBERGER, MATTHEW RODGERS, WILLIAM SPIES, NICHOLAS SPRAGUE, KENNETH TAYLOR Anthony J. Verducci Award CONOR HANDLEY Chaplain Maj. Charles Watters ’45 Memorial Award NICHOLAS RAUSCHENBERGER Inger Bagger Stovall & Robert H. Stovall ’43 Award MATTHEW RAVALLI Daniel A. Galorenzo ’03 Memorial Award AIDAN CUNNINGHAM Donald W. Yaw ’03 Memorial Award JOSEPH LABRADOR Andrew L. Clark ’43 Medallion JOHN ANGELICA Christian J. S. Brogan Class of 1987 Scholarship Award MATTHEW SMOLLEN Gloria O’Conner Scholarship Award MICHAEL MASSA James Queli Jr. Memorial Scholarship Award MICHAEL PIETRUCHA Bayley Seton Activities Award DANIEL MOTTESI Msgr. William J. Daly ’38 Award JASON PEREIRA, CONNELL KUMAR Recognition of Student Council PRESIDENT– BRANDON HERSH VICE PRESIDENT– DANIEL MOTTESI SECRETARY– GARRETT FITSCHEN TREASURER– KENNETH TAYLOR Recognition of Salutatorian CONNOR COOK Recognition of Valedictorian MATTHEW GUARNUCCIO

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Teaming up, moving us forward

On the Academic F�ont The strength of Seton Hall Prep’s academic program remains rooted in the mission of the school to nuture the spiritual, intellectual, physical and social dimensions of all students. The Prep offers its academically rigorous course of studies at College Preparatory and Honors, as well as Advanced Placement levels.

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STRATEGIC PLANNING Looking to the future, the strategic planning process is now well underway under the direction of the Steering Committee of Board of Trustees President Rich Merklinger ’65 and Trustee Dave Gill ’68, along with Assistant Headmasters Lisa Sgaramella and Dr. Jim Incardona, in association with Kathleen Casey of Partners in Mission.

The January launch was successful in

charging eight domain chairs to engage in the “diagnosis phase” of surveying the status of the school, specifically in the areas of Catholic Identity, Governance, Finances, Advancement, Enrollment, Facilities, Academics, and Student Life. Narratives for each domain are being written in advance of a fall retreat, with insights offered by participants selected from all stakeholder groups in the school community.

With online AP Bio research materials at their fingertips, a pair of juniors, Quinn Moore and Jordan Quiles, sketched one of the biological monomers laid out ahead of time for the class, which they would later use in the construction of models. • [far left] Connor Cook was a little unsettled at the way his model was taking shape.

MIDDLE STATES Seton Hall Prep is in its second full year of the newest Middle States protocol, titled Sustaining Excellence. The Prep has been a member of the Middle States Association since 1930, and was the original Catholic school member of that organization in New Jersey. In recognition of The Prep’s longstanding and continuing demonstrated academic excellence, the school was invited

[above] English teacher Sue Ryan offered drive-up help class service in the middle of a change of class to International Program student Steve Park ’21. [3 right] Peer Leadership Program Adviser Dr. Jim Incardona met with a portion of the senior peer leaders to discuss some of the academic and adjustment issues they encounter with their freshman mentoring groups. • In mid-February a pair of seniors researched investment opportunities for the Stock Market Game. Begun as a statewide challenge by The Prep’s Wall Street guru Robert Stovall ’45 nearly two decades ago, the competition is an annual staple in Kevin Williams’ Economics class, and has been won twice by Prep teams over that time. Alas, this year’s tournament ended prematurely when the pandemic shut everything down three weeks later. • The Prep’s Middle States Committee met in early December for an update on the progress of the school’s participation in the organization’s newest protocol, called Sustaining Excellence—collecting input from administrators, faculty, students, parents and alumni.

to be one of the early participants in Sustaining Excellence, which allows schools to focus on a communitybased action and research plan into a locally identified area of concern for improvement. A year ago The Prep determined the need to address the nationally recognized near epidemic proportions of student anxiety and decline of student mental health. The entire school community has become 29

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Adding to the wide variety of offerings discovered in the new Friday Enrichment Block, Music teacher Mike Neglia ’05 hosted a Drum Circle. Within minutes the sometime percussionist with the NJ Symphony had two dozen completely inexperienced performers making music with a wide assortment of percussion instruments. • Freshman Andrew Guarino snagged his first choice, while friends battled over who got to play the tambourine. [below] Yoga and quiet meditation did the de-stress trick for some.

engaged in a program that provides a vibrant and remarkably successful offering of workshops and talks nearly every Friday during the school year. In these workshops students are engaging in self-determined aspects of their education and faculty are meeting them with life lessons and techniques outside of the standard curriculum. While a few students opt for more cerebral choices like extra-help classes or silent study, other activities on the bill of fare include things like calligraphy, Tai Chi, meditation, poetry, knitting, percussion 30

jams, beach games, the Rosary, and puzzles, among others. The program allows students to explore new interests without the worry of grades, and to connect with their teachers in the space on “the other side of the desk.” In spite of being cut short due to the pandemic, the Enrichment Block Program appears to be on its way to becoming a signature piece of the Seton Hall Prep Experience.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT For twenty years, The Prep has maintained a vigorous Advanced Placement Program, adapting it along the way to shifting student needs.

Early success in offering courses led to significant growth in both the number of courses offered and the number of students enrolling. Great emphasis was placed on achieving results of 3 or higher on AP exams. In more recent years this approach has been balanced by a growing concern for the stress levels experienced by students and the

need for balance in their college preparation. Beginning with the introduction of a 4-course maximum for any student, and the modification of the AP requirements for Seton Scholars, the recent shift in emphasis has led to a lower number of AP courses and exams taken.

As the school has sought to place more emphasis on balance and depth, student attitudes appear to be shifting accordingly. This shift in emphasis is also consistent with our Middle States initiative on student health and the need to address student anxiety.

[top] Vinnie McMahon and Food Service Director Ron Archbold gave lessons to a group of juniors on “Cooking When You Get to College.� Two weeks later the onions burned and a fire drill practice ensued as the smoke set off the alarms! [above] Enrichment and service met, as 60 students decorated nearly a thousand Chrismas cookies to be sent to children in hospitals. English teacher Sharon Verhagen directed part of the assembly line, demonstrating proper technique for adding the finishing touches. [right] Over the past few years, there have been many examples here of the calming effect dogs have on groups of normally energetic teens. Just before Christmas an Enrichment Program workshop offered by Creature Comfort Pet Therapy reinforced the notion.

That said, overall academic achievement continues to be at a high level, with a significant number of Prep students receiving recognition from the College Board for their outstanding performance on the most recent round of Advanced Placement exams. AP Scholar status was awarded to 40 Prep juniors and seniors, with 19 others named AP Scholar with Honor, and 53 receiving AP Scholar with Distinction designation. Topping the recognition roll were 9 students who were named National AP Scholars.

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Theater Arts teacher Theresa Neglia helped a senior to a black-eye in the lesson on stage make-up. Other units included stage lighting, acting improvisation and stage combat. [below] The senior peer leaders actually provide the first encounter with a teacher for the freshmen—Nick Swetz offered guidance to Richard Pisano on the perplexing first-time opening of a combination lock.

COLLEGE PLACEMENT The school year commenced with forward-looking changes in the College Placement Office. College representatives and students were welcomed to a new professionally renovated office space, one that mirrored The Prep’s emphasis on and professionalism in College Placement. Within this setting, students enjoy a space apart for admissions presentations, or collaboration with their peers on college-related questions, and even de-stressing in an area where they can comfortably 32

discuss the ups and downs of the college process. The new role of College Placement Counselor was taken up

by Tom Falato, who now assists in the evolution of the entire College Placement Program, working with Director of College Placement Benjamin Laster on all programming and enhancing its detail and impact.

Inspired by our motto, Hazard Zet Forward, each member of the Class of 2020 navigated the challenges of his individual college process, which were amplified this year as the calendar

progressed. As the Covid-19 pandemic closed college campuses indefinitely, often our Prep students were left with an atypical selection process checkered with adversity. Many of our students received acceptances to colleges and universities in March, April and May that they had not been able to physically visit. However, the senior class pressed forward, leveraging their college counselors, peers, Prep alumni, admissions professionals and virtual resources to find a perfect college fit.

Despite the inherent circumstances,

[above] College Placement Officer Tom Falato reviewed a college website with junior Giye Jenkins, while Director Ben Laster discussed admissions with soonto-be-graduates Jack Angelica and Ken Taylor. [3 right] Msgr. Kelly, Michael Gallo and Msgr. Harahan were flanked

by The Prep’s 14 students receiving Commendations from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. • History teacher Tara Schweitzer checked in with one of her freshman groups researching the Upper Paleolithic Lascaux cave paintings.

• The Prep’s Walter P. McMahon Chapter of the National Honor Society recognizes exemplary scholarship, service, character and leadership. NHS officer Aidan Dunphy presented a membership certificate to Eric Puhala at the February induction ceremony.

the Class of 2020 will be remembered for garnering outstanding college outcomes: 82% of the class of 2020 was admitted to a college or university ranked in the USNEWS top 100 National Universities and/or Liberal Arts Colleges.

The 222 seniors received a total of 1,051 college acceptances and were admitted to an average of 6 colleges and universities each; 75 colleges and universities accepted 4 or more Prep students; 26 accepted 10 or more.

Admissions to the following “most

and highly selective” colleges and universities included: Brown, UPenn, Dartmouth, US Naval Academy, Amherst, Wesleyan, Middlebury, Washington & Lee, Bates, Georgia Tech, North Carolina-Chapel Hill; with multiple admissions to Wake Forest, Villanova, Stanford, Columbia, Princeton, Duke, Johns Hopkins, USC, Georgetown, UCLA, Washington University in St. Louis, NYU, Notre Dame, Northeastern, Boston University, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Lehigh, Virginia, and Boston College.

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The Spirit Mov Us Thanks to the work of the Campus Ministry Program, Prep Community members enjoy myriad opportunities to advance the proposal that The Prep serve as “a place of family, faith, compassion and courage.” Led by the program’s director, Sharon Rondinella, students are summoned to “responsible participation in the life, mission and work of the Catholic faith community.

Morning Mass in the Chapel of St. Michael the Archangel welcomes a close-knit group of faculty, students and neighbors.

Opening each school year, the Mass of the Holy Spirit is also the stage for the newest class of Special Ministers of Holy Communion to receive their commission and mandate from the Archdiocese.

As the liturgical seasons progress, school-wide Masses bring the school together in the auditorium, with those celebrations enhanced by the musical contributions of the faculty and students in Music Ministry. As the activities and athletics calendars progress, many teams and clubs kick off their seasons with a celebration of Mass in the Chapel. Going back half a century, one of the oldest traditions at the school is that of the Knights of Setonia. The group, with membership nowadays numbering in the hundreds, cele34

[opposite] For the fifth and what turned out to be final time, Msgr. Robert Harahan celebrated the September Mass of the Holy Spirit, welcoming back the student body for the year’s work. He was joined at the altar by Fr. William Melillo, President Msgr. Michael Kelly and Deacon Richard O’Hara. • On All Saints Day, with remembrances of family members and friends as the backdrop, senior Connor Cook presented the Host at Communion time.

[2 left] Chaplain Fr. James White commissioned the new group of Eucharistic Ministers at the opening Mass.

• Seniors Matt Guarnuccio and Dan Mottesi reviewed the program for the Thanksgiving Assembly. • [2 right] Junior Andrew Gigantino lit one of the candles representing a group in the community to be thankful for. • Keynote speaker Vinnie McMahon, Director of Service Learning, offered his thoughts on the meaning of the holiday, and specific reasons and ways for Prep students to express their gratitude.

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The open invitation at Kairos has always been “to love and be loved.” Personal witness to the entire group is often powerful and stirring. Gary Hinds received a well-earned expression of gratitude. [opposite] Peaceful surroundings offer opportunities for sharing.

brates Mass at the start of each month; Knights live out their devotion to the organization’s mission with pledges of community service and weekly visits to the Chapel. Prep mothers also gather there each week, coming together as “Moms in Touch,” praying for the spiritual health of the Community.

The Retreat Program gets off to an early start, with the freshman class going off-campus in the first week to the Archdiocesan Retreat Center, with senior volunteers in the lead, introducing the ninth graders to the spiritual journey they are about to embark on. The entire senior class makes a similar trip later in the year. Additionally, Chaplain Fr. Jim White hosts retreat days for parents twice a year.

Over the last decade the Kairos Retreat Program has taken center stage to encourage spiritual and personal growth among The Prep’s upperclassmen. Many staff and parents have remarked on the way that Kairos has “energized the spiritual atmosphere at SHP and deepened the sense of Brotherhood in Christ.” By graduation close to 80% of the students have taken advantage of the year’s four opportunities to share in this lifechanging experience.

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[far left] Fr. White celebrated the Thursday evening Mass with the December retreatants • [left]] Mike Curran revealed his group’s thoughts on how the door represents their Kairos experience. • [2 right] A presentation to the entire group is generally followed up by small group discussions, led by group leaders that have previously experienced the retreat. • Junior Dexter Kaufman’s explanation to the larger gathering of the significance of his group’s sacramental had the support of seniors Christian Zampino and Mason Morial.

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STAY IN TOUCH—

by sending us updates via email to the alumni office, or on your Annual Fund return envelopes.

CHARLES SUTTER ’46– I’m so proud of

the way The Prep has grown and prospered. Our class was preparing to enter the military service upon graduation when WWII ended. Many of us enlisted anyway to serve as an occupation force to let GI’s come home. As a side note, Terry and I just celebrated our 68th wedding anniversary.

That’s #5. I must be getting old, but I’m enjoying them.

DAN CAMPBELL ’56– So far life is good here in Florida. Lots of aches and pains but still playing golf 2 times a week. My granddaughter, Courtney, graduated from SHU in 2019, where I graduated in 1960.

PASCUAQLE M. BENIGNO ’49– At 89 I’m still in reasonable health thankfully and trying to do what I can as a deacon.

MICHAEL DUFFY ’56– I’m fully retired now. We celebrate our 60th wedding anniversary on February 27 and continue to spend time with our 8 grandchildren and one great grandchild.

DR. PETER C. KELLY ’50– I hit the BIG 90, but doing well. I watch my son’s Congratulations to Mr. Gallo… a well company, Kelly Builders, grow, grow, deserved position and honor. grow. Things are great!

TOM FARINA ’56– As every year goes by, JOHN F. MCMAHON ’51– Another great I am more thankful to SHP for giving me a great foundation for a successful summer at the Jersey Shore! life. “Hanging in there” in Tequesta, FL. PASCAL A. PIRONTI, MD ’51– I’ve been retired and living in Florida for the past TOM GLACCUM ’57– While still doing 2 years, but spend summer months in the regular things–skiing, hiking, Ocean City, NJ. whitewater boating–I seem to be doing them a bit slower.

PETER C. MOSCA ’53– It was some experience playing for Coach Verducci BOB MATTHEWS ’57– Arden and I and refereeing his games years later. celebrated our 50th anniversary on the Trivia question: Name the official who Cunard Line Queen Mary II in October. officiated the first NJSIAA playoff Msgr. Kelly married us in the Seton game in Giants Stadium (1976) and Hall Chapel. in Brendan Byrne Arena (1977). ME, Peter Mosca.

JOSEPH A. CAPUTO ’58– I just began piano lessons at age 79 1/2. Wish me JOHN RODIMER ’53– I have had to give luck! up golf but I still play bridge and do woodworking. My wife, Marylou, and JAMES H. CONNOLLY ’58– retired in I enjoy our 23 grandchildren and 6, 2012 and spends 5 months a year in soon to be 7, great grandchildren. God Arizona. He still swims a mile nearly has blessed us. every day.

DAN CLARK ’55– volunteers as a tour guide at the new National Museum of the US Army at Ft. Belvoir, VA, and still plays racquetball.

ROBERT ZAWISTOWSKI ’55– (Anoth-

er) great-grandchild is on the way.

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PATRICK DEO ’58– I’m keeping up the CPA license, but in semi-retirement and spending time in Florida.

RICH MATULLO ’58– Nothing much going on at this age. I’m feeling good and enjoy watching my grandson, Alex,

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BOB PRITCHARD ’58– Barbara, my dear wife for 53 years, died on Holy Saturday, 2018. I’m blessed with 13 grandchildren– 8 girls and 5 boys. My 2 oldest grandsons are in the seminary in Columbus, OH. God Bless them all.

PHILIP C. SCIBILIA ’58– is keeping busy in retirement teaching at Fordham University at the Lincoln Center Campus.

JACK SHEPPARD ’58– Keeping up with

all The Prep sports teams, especially football, basketball and baseball. Glad to hear they are doing so well. Good to see Father Mike’s picture passing the football. We were teammates on the ’55 state championship club.

JOHN CLANCEY ’59– [Writing from

At the fall Golden Knights of Setonia Luncheon, Al Mattia and John Buckley, both members of the Class of 1957, reconnect while awaiting the start of the festivities and review the program from the recent 35th Annual Hall of Fame Dinner, which celebrated the induction of their classmate Alfred Carolanza. • [above] Ann Murray, wife of outgoing Board of Trustees Chairman John Murray ‘59, with Frank Baier ’55. [2 left] A trio whose Prep careers spanned a decade catches up on recent developments— Paul Tortorella ’61, Jim Kelly ’58 and former Prep history teacher Jack O’Rourke ’51 • Class of 1960 mates Jim Rochford, Kenneth Oexle and Gary Sabatos.

Hong Kong at Christmas]: Fr. Mike,There has been a lot of tension in Hong Kong as result of the introduction of legislation to send people back to mainland China for trials and heavy police crackdown on demonstrators.

This triggered demands that the bill be withdrawn, there be an independent investigation into excessive force used by the police and also for true universal suffrage. The tense atmosphere was further increased when the government used an old colonial law to pass a new regulation forbidding persons wearing facial masks during both authorized and unauthorized marches and demonstrations. Meanwhile, as in many other parts of the world, both in Hong Kong and mainland China, the gap between the ultra-rich and the rest of us continues to grow. One clear expression of the widespread discontent in Hong Kong was made during the November elections for the District Board, when the pro-democracy camp (also understood as criticism of the government) won an overwhelming majority in 17 of the 18 districts. · At Christmas, we can reflect on how we are not only part of the one human family and thus that other persons are our brothers and sisters, but also that we are related to all of creation.

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To ensure further positive evolutionary progress, as well as better life for all persons, we must strive, as much as possible, to cooperate with others.

Hope all goes well [with you]. Had lunch with some Party folks from up north. Some hints that there may be a dialogue about the future of HK. DR. MICHAEL D’AMBROSA ’59– 51 years married–4 children, 8 grandchildren. Still working. Short trips to China.

JOHN PALLADINO ’59– I’m still living

in the sweltering heat of Florida with my loving wife Diane, who is currently studying to convert to Catholicism.

JOHN COSGROVE ’60– It’s never too

late! Our team beat 101 other senior communities to win the National CyberCycle (gym bikes connected to Wi-Fi) Championship. A blessed 2020 to everyone in The Prep Community.

JOSEPH A. BERRES ’61– I am a retired Coast Guard officer and sales executive for various environmental companies.

Mary and I are married 52 years REV. MSGR. JAMES V. PAGNOTTA ’61–

is retired after 40 years as Pastor at St. Joseph’s Parish, Jersey City. He was elevated to Monsignor by Pope Francis in 2019.

DONALD J. WOLFF ’61– All is well.

Enjoying 7 grandchildren.

ROBERT LANG ’63– Most of the previous Prep students have probably forgotten about our 1963 State Football Championship. I haven’t. I was starting right guard, #73, on that team. Go Coach Verducci!

DR. WILLIAM SUGGS ’63– My wife and I continued our world tour as we visited France this past August [2019]. We started in Paris and took a riverboat tour on the Seine to the D-Day beaches in Normandy and back.

Pointe du Hoc and Omaha Beach, as well as the American Cemetery, were very emotional experiences.

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Mid-50s stories must be in the air, [top] with Msgr. Kelly, flanked by Bernie Suttake ’54, Rudy Katzenberger ’54 and Frank Baier ’55 in on the conversation. [above] Bill Hanley ’64 with Board of Trustees Member Emeritus Dennis Mahon ’62. • [2 right] Prep Trustee Emeritus Jack Gentempo ’57, with classmate Bob Donnelly.

• More than 70 years after graduation, Class of 1948 alumni Harry McEnroe (l) and Tom Gannon (r) entertain youngster Jim Kelly ’58 with tales from way back in the day.

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PAUL J. ZINGG ’63– Just published

JAY A. GSELL ’69– Still county man-

my 13th book: “Be the Pine, Be the Ball: Haiku Reflections on the World of Golf” (Xlibris, 2018). My wife, Yasuko, was the honored guest at Kyoto Japan’s International Festival of Japanese Tea Ceremony in November (’19). I serve on the Board of Trustees for the United Arab Emirites University and the Board of Directors for Anti-Hazing Awareness Organization.

ager for Genesee County, NY—Bills and Sabers Country. I’m a Giants and Rangers fan. Just got back from Brooklyn where our son, Chris, got married.

JOHN MCMAHON ’64– I’m still shoot-

ing, moving up recently to AA Class in sporting clays.

JOE NAPURANO ’64– after 2 retire-

ments (US gov’t. and State of NJ), is just completing 10 years of managing America’s National Parks stores at Thomas Edison in West Orange, Washington’s HQ in Morristown and Great Falls in Paterson, NJ.

JOHN J. HAYDEN ’69– I am happily

retired and busier than ever (almost).

I had a great time this past June at The Prep’s 50th Reunion, catching up with old friends. Msgr. Kelly, Rich Koles and the Reunion Committee made it a memorable experience.

DAVID M. MOSSER ’69– I am a professor of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics at the University of Maryland.

JOSEPH BYRNE ’70– I currently run

THOMAS J. CAMBRIA ’70– Since my

retirement with my wife, Angela, and our 8 grandchildren!

BRIAN ROWLAND ’65– Barbara and I live in Ocala, FL. I golf and get involved with our community. We visit our grandchildren in Atlanta regularly.

last update, son Robert has blessed us with a lovely daughter-in-law, Bridie, followed by our 3rd grandchild, Mackenna Bleu. I’m still employed part-time as an investigator and enjoying Florida winters. Looking forward to our 50th reunion.

RANDOLPH L. MESSINA ’66– My first grandchild, Dylan Alexander Abbott, just turned 7 months old and we are all thrilled.

RAY DONAHUE ’70– Looking forward to retirement and the Class of 1970 50th Reunion. Best Wishes to Fr. Mike and all at The Prep!

DR. ANTHONY J. SZULCZEWSKI ’66–

KEVIN GILL ’70– I’ve recently retired, still in Charlotte, but will move closer to the ocean!

DAN DESMEDT ’67– I am finally retired and enjoying life at the Jersey Shore in Manasquan.

MANUEL R. GERARDO ’68– I was installed as president of the Prince George’s County, MD, Bar Association for 2019-20.

FRANK J. MUOIO ’68– retired in June,

2019, from Travelers Insurance after 38+ years as senior counsel.

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A HOMECOMING Last October, life’s long and winding road led a 1972 graduate back to The Prep, this time as the newly ordained Fr. John Brandi, newest member of the Theology Department. Ordained a deacon in 2015 and as a priest in 2019, Fr. John had spent the last 20 years at Morristown’s Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, working in the parish’s Youth Ministry and Social Service Outreach programs. During that same period he worked as a consulting psychologist for The Willow School and nationally for Liberty Healthcare. His wide experience in a variety of related fields includes prior work with Johns Hopkins School of Medicine as a research and statistical consultant, as school psychologist for the New York City, Elizabeth, and Parsippany Boards of Education and as mem-

and operate a non-medical home care agency called Visiting Angels, located in Red Bank, NJ. I’ve been doing it for the past 15 years.

GEORGE MARINO ’65– I’m enjoying

Sharyn and I are still keeping active in our professions. When enjoyment of what we do to make our livings runs out, then will be the time to retire.

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DAVID LEONARDIS ’70– Our son, John, is a wrestling coach at Rutgers. His team finished in the Top Ten in the country and had 2 NCAA champions in 2019.

JEFF PLAMONDON ’70– I’m looking

forward to our 50th Reunion in May 2020.

DOUGLAS BAIRD ’71– We’re doing well in northern Virginia. I’ve been retired from the Air Force for 25 years this year. My 45th reunion from VMI is

ber of the Departments of Psychology of New Jersey City University, The College of St. Elizabeth and Fordham University, where he is currently a PhD candidate.

Casting his net of interests even wider, along the way Fr. John has coached football, wrestling and lacrosse (he was once NJSIAA Assistant Coach of the Year) and recently served as Chaplain of the Seton Hall University Baseball Team.

Fr. John Brandi ’72 celebrated the Ash Wednesday Mass in Bayley Seton Auditorium last February. He now serves an important role in The Prep’s Theology Department.

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this September. Time marches on. Best regards to the SHP Community.

STEVE BLAHA ’71– After 39 years in Colonia, Jean and I moved to Point Pleasant last year. Still running my accounting practice from there.

TIM MCDONOUGH ’71– I have retired from the American Express Corporate Flight Department after 32 great years.

Life is grand, with 3 sons and 3 grandchildren. All the best!

PETER DOWD ’72– We welcomed our first grandchild, Emily Elizabeth Dowd, on September 6, 2019, at St. Barnabas, Livingston. My son, Paul, and wife, Sara, live in Cranford.

CHARLES P. TIVENAN, ESQ. ’72– We are now (after 39 years of marriage and 4 kids) empty-nesters! Still working in my solo law practice and my patient spouse is working on OPIC (a medical software progam) at Hackensack Meridian Hospital System. Life is good! And, as I say often, “The best education I ever got was at Seton Hall Prep.” God Bless Msgr. Kelly and SHP! TOM ARMINIO ’73– and wife, Jan, are

thoroughly enjoying retirement, spending significant time in Maine at their cottage in Mt. Vernon in the Belgrade Lakes region. They travel a lot and spend time with their granddaughter.

JOSEPH MALLANEY ’73– retired in Sep-

tember [2019] from Societe Gernerale.

After 43 years in the commodity business it is time to spend time with family and our grandchild. I still live in Summit.

JOHN A. MARTINO ’73– God blessed

us with a son-in-law this year. Capt.

Patrick Knight married our daughter, Annabeth, in early spring.

ELLIOT J. RIORDAN ’73– I retired from the World Bank after 30 years.

STEPHEN F. AUTH ’74– has published a new book, “The Missionary of Wall Street.” It made the Catholic Herald’s list of Top 10 Spiritual Books of 2019.

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Happy Birthday to you– Msgr.

Kelly sets to blow out the candles as Director of Advancement Matt Cannizzo ’90 leads the gathering in the birthday song at the October get-together at the Spring Lake Golf Club. Little did everyone know that their practice on the song would pay off months later, as the tune would be the guide for washing hands properly during the pandemic. [above] Leonard Gray ’66 and Peter O’Connor ’59 demonstrate healthy eating habits at the buffet line. [2 right] Ray Bruno, with fellow Class of ’69 grads Kevin Driscoll and recently retired former Alumni Director Rich Koles. • Dan Hurley ’60 and Patrick Brannigan ’60, in the midst of a Golden Knights conversation.

T versity remarked,“These inspiring tales of Steve Auth’s faithful band of Catholic missionaries working the street corners of New York City reads like a 21st century version of the Acts of the Apostles.” Steve is a frequent guest on CNBC, Fox Business News, and Bloomberg TV. He earned his undergraduate degree at Princeton and graduate degree at Harvard Business School. Steve is a member of the Regnum Christi movement and sits on the national board of the Lumen Institute, which he helped found in New York. He has participated in missions in Mexico, and with his wife, Evelyn, has led the New York City street mission for ten years.

BARTON TROXELL ’76– I’m the Chief Engineer on board the M/V Maersk Seletar (Maersk Line Ltd, Norfolk, VA.) and member of the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association. Happy Birthday, Fr. Mike.

JEFF J. KORTINA ’77– I’m celebrating 30 years of employment at B.Braun Medical, Inc., where I’m currently Sales Director, Eastern US. I’m married for 29 years, with 2 sons, aged 24 and 21.

JOSEPH A. SILVESTRI ’78– Daughter

Casey got married in October (’19).

GARY ARMENTI ’80– Well, Angelo arrived in February—our 4th grandchild and 3rd grandson. Rachel now has 3 boys. Christina, our middle daughter, has a girl and our youngest, Nicola, recently got engaged. Oh boyHere we go again!

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NEIL D. CERRETO, ESQ ’84– I have my own legal practice, handling family, bankruptcy, wills, estates, municipal, real estate matters. We help people.

WILLIAM TILESTON ’82– I am retired and doing work with the Essex County Drug-Court Program in Newark, practicing sobriety and counseling youth offenders; also volunteering at Trinitas Hospital in Elizabeth, working with the homeless. I’m waiting on my 40th reunion (2022) soon. Love SHP with all my heart.

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FRANK DAUKSIS ’02– We just recently completed the renovations of my restaurant, Michael’s Roscommon House, in Belleville. My wife and I had our 2nd child, Riley Michele.

ALBERT DOWLING ’84– I’m employed

by the NJ State Police as Captain, Bureau Chief Special Investigation.

PETER FREDERIKS ’04– was married

LAWRENCE O. UHLMAN ’87– I’m still teaching Humanities and English in Seattle. I think of Bink often and tell my students many stories of my time in his classes. This is a special year for me, as both my daughters are at school with me; my eldest is heading off to college next year. Tempus fugit, as Mr. Murtha taught me all those years ago.

HENRY GEHMAN ’05– I am in my 7th year as Director of Music at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Verona. I

in May, 2019.

KEVIN GONZALEZ ’90– is married with 3 sons. He has been a licensed physical therapist for over 25 years and was just elected to his 3rd term on Eatontown’s Borough Council.

JAY HILDRETH ‘91– completed Ironman

Florida, at age 45, completing the 140.6mile race in 14 hours-9 minutes. Jay is a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army, serving as the Branch Chief for U.S. Africa Command in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence in the Pentagon.

Prep Board of Trustees Member Emeritus Greg Fusco

DAVID DIFALCO ’95– is Chief Operat-

ing Officer at Under Canvas, a glamping company operating out of Denver. The company has camp sites at a number of national parks throughout the country.

school Social Studies at St. James School in Basking Ridge.

will be participating in my 5th Verona Interfaith Thanksgiving Service this November [2019] and am currently pursuing a professional certificate in Sacred Music with the American Guild of Organists.

ALEXANDER ANAGNOS ’01– now

JOSEPH MITAROTONDA ’05– is VP

lives in Leander, TX, with his wife, Erin, and their 2 children. He is a high school history teacher.

of Finance at Q-S Spectacular Mixers, Brooklyn, NY.

THOMAS J. WELSH ’95– teaches middle FRANK GAGLIANO ’82– I was promoted in August to Senior Vice-President Field Distributions for Liberty Mutual Insurance. We live in Wellesley, MA.

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CHRIS BROPHY, O.P. ’02– successfully

defended his doctoral dissertation in Political Theory at Notre Dame on January 27, 2020. In the fall he will join the faculty of Providence College as a member of the Department of Political Science.

‘64 (l) reconnects with contemporaries from the Class of 1963, Joe DiBenedetto and Harry Snyder. • Living just about across the street from the Spring Lake Golf Club, former Prep Public Relations Director and Prep parent Joy DeCheser dropped by to offer Msgr. Kelly best wishes on his birthday.

MIKE PRENDEVILLE ’06– We are expecting our first child this April [2020]. All is well in Atlanta. Wishing fellow Pirates the best!

ANTHONY J. KLINE ’08– serves in the

Navy, stationed at Mayport Naval Station in Jacksonville, FL. 43

Seton Hall P rep Mourns Their P assing 44

Dr. Jack F. Altomonte ’77 George E. Argast ’52 G. Phillip Berkebile ’55 Gary A. Bionde ’56 John R. Brady ’54 Frank Brodzinski ’56 Kevin P. Caufield ’72 Ronald Cecere ’58 Richard E. Cheski ’57 Kenneth W. Chmura ’60 John M. Cimino ’73 Rich P. Coan ’59 Eugene Crummy ’44 Alfred E. DeAlmeida ’87 Bernard J. Degnan ’47 Joseph W. Delaney ’60 Fred DiMenna ’72 Thomas Dolan ’45 Robert W. Dowling ’59 Angelo Esposito ’75 Vincent P. Fahey ’47 Thomas A. Gamba ’76 Victor Gialanella ’66 Robert E. Gillespie ’62 John T. Gilsenan ’56 William Grabowski ’65 Peter A. Greene ’47 Neil Guidera ’60 Robert S. Harrison ’54 Rev. Frank Heinen ’51 Dr. Donald E. Hillner ’56 Francis J. Hogan Norman F. Hughes ’53 Leonard J. Kapraszewski ’74 Paul Kiely ’54 Hon. Edmond M. Kirby ’54 Matthew J. Konig ’62 Rev. Paul J. Lehman ’46 Anthony Libretti ’54 James J. Longo ’59 William Maione ’08 Edward J. Mallon ’42 Robert P. Masterson ’67 Richard M. McHugh ’47 Creighton McDermott ’48 Edward M. Milko ’57 James A. Moore ’49 Rev. John F. Morley ’54 Bernard N. Oliger ’50 Carl V. Patetta ’55 Orest Pelech ’64 Robert A. Podolski ’66 Donald W. Remlinger ’55 Eugene Renkar ’52 Richard H. Roitmayer ’83 Frank B. Saul ’42 Dominic A. Scolamiero ’60 Thomas J. Sharkey ’50 John F. Shine ’48 Donald V. Spaulding ’64 George W. Stivers ’48 William J. Trautwein ’56 John B. Walsh ’52 Neil Werthman ’48 Dr. Robert D. Willix ’59 Anthony Wysocki ’65 Andrey V. Zielyk ’79 Herbert F. Zitch Jr. ’48

May 27, 2020 Jun. 27, 2019 Nov. 18, 2019 Apr. 10, 2020 Dec. 7, 2019 Mar. 30, 2019 Sep. 21, 2019 Apr. 13, 2020 Jul. 28, 2019 Apr. 5, 2020 Aug. 31, 2019 Sep. 25, 2019 Apr. 14, 2020 Apr. 4, 2020 Aug. 11, 2019 Jul. 18, 2019 Jan. 3, 2020 Apr. 2, 2020 Apr. 27, 2020 May 14, 2020 May 30, 2020 Nov. 20, 2019 Apr. 11, 2020 Oct. 15, 2019 May 7, 2019 Apr. 20, 2020 Nov. 28, 2019 Sep. 12, 2019 May 27, 2020 Apr. 14, 2020 Apr. 6, 2020 Dec. 12, 2019 Apr. 20, 2020 Mar. 9, 2020 Mar. 21, 2020 Jun. 15, 2020 Jul. 10, 2019 Jun. 20, 2019 Feb. 19, 2018 Dec. 8, 2019 Mar. 26, 2020 Apr. 8, 2020 Jan. 11, 2020 Apr. 1, 2020 Jun. 23, 2020 Jun. 30, 2020 Jun. 14, 2019 Apr. 8, 2020 May 8, 2019 Sep. 4, 2019 Mar. 13, 2020 Apr. 27, 2020 Jul. 11, 2019 Feb. 20, 2020 Jun. 25, 2020 Nov. 7, 2019 Nov. 20, 2019 Jun. 7, 2020 Dec. 24, 2019 Apr. 8, 2019 Sep. 26, 2019 May 15, 2020 Mar. 19, 2020 Sep. 9, 2019 Feb. 27, 2020 Sep. 30, 2019 Mar. 27, 2020 Jun. 30, 2019

date indicates when the notice arrived at Seton Hall Prep

TONY MARKOURIS ’08– Dear Msgr.

Kelly, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year.

All the best to you and our SHP Family.

From us at The Essex House, W.O. WILS DESONNE, DMD ’09– completed a 2-year residency in Pediatric Dentistry and has now joined a practice in Stamford, CT. BRENDAN MCAULIFFE ’09– married his college sweetheart from Notre Dame, Kate Kenny, on July 13, 2019. They reside in the Philly area.

DAVID RICCIO ’10– celebrated five

years at Samsung, as well as his recent marriage to Mercy Cortes.

PATRICK J. TEMPERA ’10– I completed my BS at Villanova (’14), my MS at Tufts School of Medicine (’16) and am currently a 3rd year med student at Brown School of Medicine (’21).

TIM CHILD ’15– graduated from Univer-

sity of Miami with a degree in Aerospace Engineering.

KEVIN FREDERIKS ’15– graduated

Boston College with Summa Cum Laude honors in May (’21).

CHARLIE FRITZ ’15– will finish his

Master’s Degree in German and European Studies at Georgetown University in May 2020.

PAUL RICCIO ’15– graduated from George Washington University and now works at Omnicom.

BERNARD F. BARILLO JR. ’16– is graduating in Spring 2020 at the Catholic University of America.

ZACHARY LIMA ’17– I am still at RPI and playing men’s lacrosse. I have been at Mott MacDonald as an engineering intern.

SEAN LOUIS ’18– has started his sopho-

from each of the Division 1 conferences.

I was first selected among the studentathletes to represent Providence College as their representative to the conference, which was a tremendous honor. I was then further selected by the Big East committee, along with a female basketball player from Georgetown, to represent the Big East Conference. I am tremendously honored and humbled by this opportunity and know that my successes have a lot to do with the four years at the Prep.

ZACH TRAUTZ ’18– is a sophomore at University of South Florida—a BioMed Engineer major with a minor in PreMed. He plans to become an anesthesiologist… all because of SHP. HZF. Thank you and God Bless!

DANIEL ZARILLO ’18– just finished his first semester as a 4th Class cadet at the US Coast Guard Academy. He had been deferred for a year due to a knee injury but enjoyed his role as an assistant coach for SHP Lacrosse in spring 2019.

MICHAEL JORDAN, FF – Hope all is well and that you and your families are safe and healthy. I am still kind of in awe that we are living through this and hope that things take a turn for the better soon. I wanted to share some great news, as we are faced with bad news each day during this pandemic.

• Mike Halligan SHP ’02, whom I had the honor to teach and coach at SHP and then had the pleasure of hiring as a teacher in Maywood, has been selected as the next principal of Memorial School, our elementary school in Maywood. • Absolutely no doubt the impact SHP, SHU and the baseball brotherhood had on him and also in me. We are doing our best keeping our Pirates together and I thought you would like this nice news in the face of the situation we are in. [Michael Jordan is a former Math teacher and coach at The Prep, and is now Superintendent of Schools in Maywood, NJ.]

more year at Indiana University.

MATT MICHAELS ’18– I was selected to

attend the 2020 NCAA Student Athlete Leadership Forum taking place in Los Angeles April 16-19. This program is run annually and includes two athletes Edward M. Milko ’57

CONLIN BROGAN FP ’82,’87– All is Calm; All is Bright. And I’m still on “this side” of the grass at 82. [Lyn Brogan is former President of the Fathers Club and father of Tim ’82 and Chris ’87.]

Jun 30, 202

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was ordained to the Order of Priests on May 2, 2020 by The Most Rev. A. Elias Zaidan, Bishop of the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los Angeles, at the Chapel of Our Lady of Elige, Pastoral Maronite Center, St. Louis, MO.

MICHAEL A. SHAMI ’11–

A mini-reunion of the Class of 1968 [top] included James Shugrue, Board of Trustees Vice-Chairman J. David Gill, Herb Campbell, Ciro Scalera and Ron Ulak. • The afternoon’s entry from the Class of 1954 comprised Leo Baumann and Joe Williams. • Peter Degnan ’50, with M. Richard Merklinger ’65, attending his first Golden Knights Luncheon as Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

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Soccer’s venerable annual gathering at a Thanksgiving Alumni Reunion welcomed– (back, standing): Dave Snyder ’89, Mason Toye ’17, Bobby Schneiderman ’14, Achim Younker ’16, Mike Gallo ’16, Matt Gilmore ’17, Brett Rojas ’16 • 4th Row (standing behind): J.T. Tiralosi ’14, Gabe Gaggioni (hat) ’08, Greg DiGiovine ’09, Jon Okafor ’07, Marty Berman H’05 • 3rd Row (standing): Ryan Vazquez ’17, Adam Silva ’18, Hayden Harr ’11, Cameron Harr ’15, Vyas Maddukuri ’14, Erik Sa ’13, Jon Azzinnari ’13, Brandon Savino ’12, Jake Tarnoff ’17 • 3rd Row (kneeling): Paul Silva ’18, Mike Niehenke ’91, Mike Finn ’94 • 2nd Row: Tim Janes ’11, Greg Irwin ’16, Nick Kriak ’18, Joe Cubero ’18, Gabe Ferreira ’18 • Front: Matty Berman ’11, Geoff Marino ’96, John Johnson ’96, Traver Davis ’02

MICHAEL FAVETTA ’03 has been interested in the weather since his early days at The Prep. He became a TV meteorologist while still a student at Kean University, later founding a meteorlogical consulting firm, Weather Prep, which at one time provided school closing recommendations to The Prep even more reliable than those of the network “big boys.” He also founded Climate Without Borders, an international group which works to create public support for climate education and action.

In early October, 2019, Mike received an invitation from the Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present on the topic Communicating Climate Change at the UN Framework Convention in Taipei. The forum’s work centered on educating and spreading ideas to policymakers and government leaders. The attendees comprised leading researchers and weathercasters from Japan, Austria, Thailand, Australia and the United States.

Mike spoke to the group on the importance of communicating the concept of climate change, noting that TV meteorologists are trusted sources of information, saying, “Thankfully, the conversation here is changing. Within the past two years, climate change is getting more and more deserved attention and people’s views are changing.

Survey data backs that up.”

-from the Kean University website

Basketball’s decades-old tradition of a reunion at the Pirates’ Christmas Eve practice brought together Sam Moore ’19, Steve Ferraro ’16, Ashton Miller ’19, Patrick Williams ’19, Zach Keller ’16, TJ Gibbs ’16, Matt Skrelja ’10 and Geordan Walker ’19.

After almost a decade of talking about making it happen, The Prep’s marquee baseball program pulled off the first of what is hoped to be an Annual Old-Timer’s Day, prior to the SHP Alumni Day football game at the KAC against East Orange. Coaches Mike Sheppard and Frank Gately pitched some B.P., which was followed by a game where the veterans flashed some of the skills they displayed as players years ago. Pirates in attendance were: Joe D’Angiolillo ’10, Spencer Toth ’08, George Dillon ’92, Bob Siedler ’90, Henry Warner ’08, Edwin Arocho ’00, Dave Kahney ’90, Jon McCue ’04, Jim Badolato ’90, Chris Schwarzbek ’92, Mike Kahney ’96, Tom Daniels ’76, Bill Lennon ’60, Ryan Messmer ’08, Tyler Rokosny ’14, Matt Lasher ’86, Mike Halligan ’02, Alex Cardoso ’00, Andy Perez ’98, Paul Ade ’78, Steve Ehrich ’86, Mike Sgaramella ’14, R J Fornaro ’94, John Sheppard ’84, Frank Gately ’86, Robert Sheppard ’88, Jim Mackin ’04, Larry Ordonez ’98, Chris Cavallo ’92, Tony Valvano ’00, Mark Venice ’14, Mike Cocco ’82, Joe DeLorenzo ’12, Mike Sheppard III ’12, Dan Fornaro ’99, John Bravette ’95, Mike Sheppard Jr. ’77,

Mike Sheridan ’11, Chris Weber ’09, Brian Bowness ’91, John Probst ’95, Pat Henning ’95, Jeff Goldberg ’77, Rocco Fornaro ’73, John McNish ’91, Nick Rizzo ’09, Stephen Kress ’03, CJ Strlekar ’17, Keith Gehm ’89, Joe Martinez ’01, Javier Martinez ’03, John Muha ’01, Rhett Zidziunas ’93, Chris Rizzo ’03, Nick Bergamotto ’87, Doug DelleDonne ’89, Bobby Gunning ’99, Scott Carpenter ’99, Tom Fenelon ’13, Mike Saccente ’13, Alex Choma ’13, Ryan Clark ’03, Rob Clark ’03

JOINING THE BAT TLE AS THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC GAINED A FOOTHOLD IN MARCH, ALUMNI STEPPED UP TO OFFER SUPPORT TO PREP STUDENTS SUDDENLY CONFRONTED WITH AN ALTERED UNIVERSE. ONE MARCH DAY THE SCHOOL’S MORNING PRAYERS WERE LED ONLINE BY THE FAMILY OF 1981 GRADUATE PETE BOTTINO; DURING THE EARLY DAYS OF THE LOCK-DOWN, PREP STUDENTS HEARD WORDS OF SUPPORT FROM NY METS PITCHER AND 2016 CY YOUNG AWARD WINNER RICK PORCELLO ’07 AND FROM 1983 GRAD, ACTOR BILL BELLAMY.

DAVID FLOOD ’84, Senior Vice-President and Chief Development Officer of Utah’s Intermountain Healtcare team, was a key member of the leadership group that mobilized a pair of 50-member response teams in April sent to New York’s Presbyterian Hospital and New York’s largest healthcare provider, Northwell Health, to join the fight against Covid-19.

As a member of the Intermountain’s executive team, Dave is responsible for the direction and oversight of the Intermountain Foundation, a comprehensive healthcare fundraising network designed to meet the research and philanthropic needs of the company’s 23 hospitals and related health services.

“I’m blessed and privileged to serve within the system’s executive team that supports and applauds these impassioned nurses and doctors,” Dave said. “These are the brave and dedicated volunteers who left their families during a pandemic to help others. The example of ‘love thy neighbor’ embodied by those caregivers and their supportive families at this challenging time is just incredible and inspirational to all of us.”

A member of The Prep’s Board of Trustees, Dave graduated from SHP in 1984. He continued his education at Seton Hall University, earning both bachelor and masters degrees there, and years later going on to serve on the SHU Board of Regents. His early career included roles in the alumni offices at The Prep and the University.

Dave has been honored as SHU’s St. Andrews Seminary Humanitarian of the Year and has been inducted into Seton Hall University’s Sports Hall of Fame, through his work with Men’s Basketball.

Seton Hall Prep’s President Msgr. Michael Kelly remarked, “Dave has exemplified the spirit of The Prep by identifying how his company’s resources and expertise could help save lives and selflessly assist areas that are in critical need. We are proud to have Alumni and Board members like Dave making such a positive impact in times like these.”

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35 hall of fame th

Last October 16th Seton Hall Prep welcomed seven former student-athletes and a historic team into the annals of The Prep’s storied history, at the Annual Hall of Fame Dinner at Mayfair Farms in West Orange. “We recognize a group of men whose accomplishements and unselfish contributions,” remarked Msgr. Kelly in his welcome, “represent the proud tradition of excellence that we constantly strive to uphold…who are part of our proud and distinguished legacy, and so deserving of this most prestigious award.”

Joining Msgr. Kelly and Hall of Fame Chairman Richard E. Merklinger ‘90 were [front] Michael Purzycki ’63, representing his father Mike Purzycki ’39 (posthumous)captain and leading scorer on the 24-1 1939 NJ #1 basketball team, Alfred Carolonza ’54- offensive lineman for 1955 state championship team, the first under Coach Tony Verducci, [back] Clayton Parros ’09400 and 600m sprinter; 2 all-time New Jersey and 8 SHP records; 3-time Meet of Champions titles; fastest high school 400m in NJ- 45.7, Patrick Blackie ’07- 2005 state 400m champion; 10 individual championships; 400m state frosh record- 49.1, Kevin Wilson ’09undefeated in senior swim season; SHP records in 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, 100 Breastroke, 400 Free Relay; 2009 Star-Ledger Swimmer of the Year and Essex County Championships Cullen Jones MOP Award recipient, Anthony Drejaj ’02- guard on NJSIAA State Basketball Championship and Essex County Championship teams, 3 Iron Hills titles, 2002 Essex County Player of the Year, 3-year team record 77-9, E.J. Solimine ’01- 4-year hockey forward on multiple Gordon Cup, NJSIAA Parochial A and Tournament of Championship teams, 1981 Football Team- Parochial A State Champs, 11-0 record, held opponents to 4.2 ppg, 3 First Team All State players; 8 All County players

The evening’s Master of Ceremonies Jerry Barca ’95 gave Anthony Drejaj a little unsolicited help with his acceptance speech. Msgr. Kelly presented a memento of the honor to Mike Purzycki in the name of his father and to Al Carolonza.

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AT THE HALL OF FAME [clockwise from inside left] A trio of really fast guys trade early 21st century tales from the track—honorees Patrick Blackie ’07 and Clayton Parros ’09, with Corey Alexander ’07. Former Prep teacher and coach Bob Denman ’72 surprises teammates Allen Cooper and Hall of Famer Stanley Woods ’83 with some photos from their days on the gridiron. Honoree Kevin Wilson ’09 celebrates his induction with his mom, Vivian

The evening’s emcee

Jerry Barca ’95 led the Hall of Fame gathering in a rendition of “Happy Birthday” to Msgr. Kelly, who had first heard it only a few days before at the Spring Lake Golden Knights of Setonia Luncheon.

Members of

the 1981 championship football team showed off a cherished memento of the season and presented remarks to the gathering; Brian Johnson, Jack Condon and Pete Reavey did the honors.

Teammates on the ice, Brandon Doria ’99 with the newest hockey inductee, E.J. Solimine ’01.

[below] Offering remembrances of their days competing for the Pirates were Patrick Blackie ’09, classmate Kevin Wilson ’09, E.J. Solimine ’01 and Clayton Parros ’07.

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from the

Office of Institutional Advancement The Annual Fund Makes the Difference The Prep relies on the generosity of our community to advance the school’s mission.

Your support of the Seton Hall Prep Annual Fund closes the 10% gap between what The Prep charges in tuition and the actual cost of educating each student. The Annual Fund also enhances the SHP student experience, Tuition 85% as these funds are donated directly to support academic and co-curricular programs, including athletics, activities, the arts, new technology, retreats, and even student leadership and service opportunities. Gifts from alumni and parents to the Annual Fund ensure that our talented and diverse student body has the very best to succeed.

Your tax-deductible gift provides unrestricted support for essential programs and other areas of greatest need.

10%

ANNUAL FUND

5% Endowment & Other Revenue

Gifts to the Annual Fund can be made from July 1 to June 30 of each fiscal year. Visit www.shp.org/giving to participate.

FAR LEFT- The Annual Fund Parent Committee: (l-r) Sue Petrovcik P’16’18’23, Missy Ferraro P’19’21, Eileen Hannaford P’17’20 and Susan Agnew P’18’22 • [LEFT] At a welcome for parents at the Orange Lawn Tennis Club in early October, the newest members of The Prep Community

Thank You to Our Annual Fund Parent Committee

Thank you to our Annual Fund Parent Committee for all of its hard work this past year increasing participation in the Annual Fund. We bid a fond farewell to Eileen Hannaford P’17’20 as her last son graduates this year. Eileen has been a dedicated committee member for the past six years, serving as Committee Chairperson the last four years. Eileen’s service to The Prep has been inspirational and we will miss her!

Annual Fund Parent Committee events this year included the Welcome Parent Coffee held in October at Orange Lawn Tennis Club and the Parent Phonathon in November. The year was highlighted by the Thank You Reception for Leadership Giving to the Annual Fund held at the Rock Spring Club on January 25, 2020. More than 100 Prep parents enjoyed themselves at this event graciously hosted by Jeff and Danielle Lumby P’11’16’21.

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had the opportunity to meet administrators and Parent Fund Committee members, as well as connect with other parents from their area. • Dawn Sandomeno P’15,’18,’19, with the incoming and outgoing headmasters, Michael Gallo and Msgr. Robert Harahan. • Hung and Nicole Wong P’23, with Marybeth Ream of the Advancement Office • Ken McGowan P’22 and Herilaine Casais P’23, with Director of Griffin Bridges LaQuan Ford.

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Perfect weather greeted Prep alumni, families and friends at the Kelly Athletic Complex for the Annual Thanksgiving Morning 5K Turkey Trot.

SHP Track Coach Chris Barnitt ‘88 sent the crowd off for the morning’s exercise.

[3 right] Dr. Anthony Polcari ’97 • Hogan Dwyer ’15, with Class of 2014 teammates Tim O’Connor and Liam McCrea • Fred Schlageter ’20

The Rogers Family Legacy Continues

Mary Catherine Rogers, wife of the late Brian L. Rogers ’46, along with a small portion of the Rogers Family, present President Msgr.

Kelly and Headmaster Michael Gallo with her needlepoint rendition of DaVinci’s The Last Supper.

The artwork now graces the entrance to the school’s Chapel of St. Michael the Archangel. Over the years the Brian L. Rogers Memorial Golf Outing has raised close to $90,000 in scholarship money for The Prep.

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from the

Office of Institutional Advancement

As understanding of the impact of the world health crisis on our nation and on our school began to take shape in mid-March, it became apparent early on that, like many other non-profits, Seton Hall Prep would need to focus its resources on the most severely affected families by providing tuition relief. The Prep’s Advancement Office, in consultation with President Msgr. Kelly ’57 and Headmaster Michael Gallo ’79, acted quickly to establish the Hazard Zet Forward Fund in an effort to ensure that our young men would be able to remain at the school despite the difficult challenges ahead. In his initial letter to our community, Msgr. Kelly wrote: “During this crisis, we know that many of our families find themselves with unexpected hardship. Selflessly, many of you have asked how you can help us and help other families struggling during this time. In response, we have established a new fund for providing critical tuition assistance and essentials for those with the greatest need, the Hazard Zet Forward Fund— through adversity, we move forward. This initiative will serve as a bridge for some families to help them through this difficult time. These are the families who have confided in us that they are having difficulties already, due to job loss/furlough, or other related issues stemming from the coronavirus pandemic. The goal of this fund is to provide families with

interim tuition relief to help them through this challenging time. Our ultimate hope for this fund is that no parents will be faced with a decision of whether or not they can continue to have their sons attend The Prep in the midst of this health crisis.”

In a matter of only six weeks, from its launch in late March, Msgr. Kelly’s call to action was heard by many generous alumni and parents, with more than $125,000 being raised to begin assisting our young men and their families most severely impacted by the economic devastation of Covid-19. As The Prep’s annual day of giving, “Bleed Blue Giving Day”, quickly approached, the Advancement Office pivoted in an effort to further boost this new critical fund for SHP families by temporarily transforming the day this year into “HZF Giving Day” in response to the most pressing needs in our school community. Bolstered by two challenge matches for the day, totaling $25,000 from the Colangelo Family and from a Class of 1990 alumnus, the funds raised on the May 14 “HZF Giving Day” doubled the critical tuition assistance for SHP families by raising over $125,000 in a 24-hour period, bringing the HZF Fund total up over $250,000. This achievement was made possible by more than 371 additional alumni, families and friends who partnered with The Prep in the spirit of our motto–Hazard Zet Forward.

In thanking The Prep’s faithful supporters for their willingness to step up in this time of need for so many, Director of Advancement, Matt Cannizzo ’90 said, “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated in this amazing day of giving and who are still giving to this new fund for our young men and their families. Many years from now, I think that all of us here will look back and remember that the key to affording some of our students the opportunity to remain at and graduate from Seton Hall Prep was the giving offered by our alumni, parents and friends.”

If you would still like to support this initiative, we invite you to make a gift at shp.org/giving. Your generosity will always be remembered by all of us here at The Prep, and by those who need it the most. For more information about pledges and gifts to the HZF Fund, contact mcannizzo@shp.org.

Athletic Trainer’s Room Dedicated in Memory of Patrick Sages’77

On September 21, 2019, Msgr.

Kelly, Prep staff, family and friends of Patrick Sages ’77 gathered at the Kelly Athletic Complex for a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the naming of the trainer’s room in Patrick’s

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memory. Pat’s wife, Diane Sages, his sons, Chris ’10 and PJ ’06, were all on hand to celebrate Patrick’s memory. Close friend and fellow “football father” Tony Esposito Sr. spoke to the gathering and emphasized Pat’s love for The

Prep and his service to the school through his involvement with the Fathers Club. Another of the scores of Patrick’s friends made an anonymous donation to honor his dear friend in this meaningful way.

Pat Sages is remembered inside the John B. Murray Fieldhouse with his teammates on the 1976 football team, and in an archive photo of the 1977 baseball team.

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Leaving a Lasting Mark at The Prep

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Through it all…

Prep Parents, Always T here in Support Going back as far as the 1960s the Mothers Auxiliary and the Fathers Club have worked year-round in support of Prep students and their activities.

In addition to their well-documented expertise in raising funds, they are just as renowned for their “friends-raising” business. The relationships grown among the groups’ members last long beyond the work on the organizations two major events—The Mothers Auxiliary Fashion Show and the Fathers Club Treasure Auction and Car Raffle —and graduation. This year proceeds from the Fashion Show enriched the student activities program by more than $100,000, while the Auction and Raffle, in spite of having the plug pulled by the pandemic, still raised more than $70,000.

When Jeff and Danielle Lumby’s youngest son, Nolan, graduates from The Prep in June, 2021, it will be a bittersweet occasion, marking the end of the family’s 14-year participation as active members of the Seton Hall Prep Community. Over the many years the family has spent at the school, they have supported numerous fundraising efforts and witnessed the completion of two incredibly impactful “Generations” Capital Campaign initiatives– The Kelly Athletic Complex and the John J. Murphy ‘52 Science Center. As they reflect on their fond memories of the time they have spent at SHP, they would like to express their genuine gratitude to the entire school community by making a lasting contribution to a project that would benefit the students, the faculty, and the collective family experience at The Prep.

“The idea of making a leadership gift to the school as a ‘thank you’ for all of the years that our family has spent at Seton Hall Prep, and the impact it has had on our boys, was presented to us and we just loved the concept,” said Jeff.

As The Prep resumes its development of a long-term strategic plan this fall, the Lumby Family will be working closely with school leadership to determine the very best way to align their interests and their core values with the most critical needs of the school. “From this wonderful partnership with Jeff and Danielle, and through their immense generosity, we will come away with an exciting and transformational project for SHP in 2021,” explained Matt Cannizzo ‘90, The Prep’s Director of Institutional Advancement.

“One of the most valuable aspects of Seton Hall Prep,” said Danielle, “and why we sent three sons to the school, is its diverse population of students from all backgrounds and all walks of life. We believe that supporting The Prep’s capital initiatives to update infrastructure and renew student space for the next generation will play a meaningful role in fostering camaraderie and further instilling a sense of belonging and brotherhood.”

The Lumby family has generously pledged a $150,000 challenge match for this school year to help The Prep accomplish a major capital project in the 2021-2022 school year. This means that any dollar contributed this fall or in the spring to “capital projects” will be matched 3-2 by the Lumby Family, up to $100,000.

At November’s Fathers Club Communion Breakfast, FC President Mike Montelone (l) and Msgr. Kelly presented the Thomas A. Reynolds Award to Brian Tevlin ’17, Msgr. Robert Harahan H’17 and Science teacher Michael Smircich. • Masked up and streaming live, Msgr. Kelly and Mike Gallo pulled the winner of the FC Car Raffle’s Audi Q3. • Event Co-Chairs Allie Orr and AnnMarie Bergwall presented proceeds from the Fashion Show to Msgr. Kelly and Mike Gallo. • Scenes from the 40th Annual Fashion Show at Mayfair Farms “Don’t Stop Believin’,” attended by more than 675.

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from the

Office of Institutional Advancement The Msgr. William J. Daly ’38 Planned Giving Society Msgr. Bill Daly—as a Prep senior in 1938, a Bleed Blue superfan at a 2002 Greater Newark Tournament baseball game at Newark Bears Stadium, as the Assistant Headmaster in 1962, and on the way to Europe to study with 1956 alumni Frs. Richard Liddy and Thomas Ivory in 1960

A Planned Giving Message from SHP President Msgr. Michael E. Kelly ’57—

“THE PREP HAS BEEN VERY BLESSED to receive a number of generous planned gifts from alumni, faculty and friends over the past few years. These kind and generous people often share with me just how much of an impact that The Prep made on their lives and they want to leave something for the school to pay their blessings forward. Many of the gifts we have received have been made as part of a will, a trust or an insurance policy. In some cases, alumni have requested a naming opportunity at the school to honor their parents, a classmate, or even a Prep teacher that made a difference in their lives.

Leaving The Prep in your plans has a lasting impact here and creates a legacy at Seton Hall Prep for your family... for generations. Remembering our Alma Mater in this way ensures it will thrive for decades to come, beyond our lifetimes. Please consider joining me in securing the future of The Prep in this way and adding your name to The Msgr.

William J. Daly ’38 Planned Giving Society.”

Overview

Members of The Msgr. William J. Daly ’38 Planned Giving Society express their commitment to Seton Hall Prep through a very special and important form of financial support. These donors name SHP as the beneficiary of a planned gift. Such gifts might include a bequest, gifts of real estate, gifts of life insurance and/or charitable income gifts, such as charitable lead trusts, charitable remainder unitrusts, charitable remainder annuity trusts, etc. There are so many ways you can make a gift that costs nothing today—or that helps make a tax-wise investment in your future and in Seton Hall Prep’s mission. For many alumni and friends, a bequest has been the simplest and best way to create a meaningful and influential legacy at Seton Hall Prep. The bequest allows you to retain control of your assets during your lifetime, while also making a lasting and significant impact at The Prep.

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Planned Giving Benefits

n You can make a gift that costs you nothing during your lifetime. n You can make a gift with appreciated assets and save taxes. n You can make a gift and leave your cash flow and current

financial planning unchanged. n You can use your retirement plan for charitable giving (give

your heirs assets with lower tax burden).

Membership Benefits

Your membership involves no dues, obligations, or solicitations, but it does allow us to thank you and recognize you for the plans you have made, and it may inspire generosity in others. By joining The Msgr. William J. Daly ‘38 Planned Giving Society, you will be recognized annually at our Golden Knights Luncheons and in our published Honor Roll of Benefactors. You will also receive invitations to special events and seminars, and be subscribed to our exclusive Planned Giving newsletter. The most important benefit you’ll receive from joining The Msgr. William J. Daly ’38 Planned Giving Society is the satisfaction of creating a legacy here and knowing that you have made a significant difference for the future of Seton Hall Prep.

Other advantages to planned giving

n Your assets remain in your control during your lifetime, so

it will not alter your current lifestyle in any way. n You can modify your gift at anytime to address changing cir-

cumstances or needs. n An outright gift from your estate is entirely free from federal

estate taxes, permitting Seton Hall Prep to utilize the full amount of your gift. Bequests made to individuals, in contrast, may be heavily taxed. n Under current tax law, there is no upper limit on the estate tax deduction for your charitable bequests. n You can direct your gift to a particular purpose at The Prep!

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Making a bequest is simple

With the help of an advisor, you can include language in your will or trust specifying a gift be made to Seton Hall Prep as part of your estate plan. There are many creative ways to structure your estate plan that may allow you to make a gift to The Prep while taking care of your loved ones.

What are my options?

A bequest to SHP can be made in several flexible ways: n You can make a gift of cash, securities, real estate or other property. n You can make a gift of a specific dollar amount or asset. n You can make a gift of a percentage of your estate. n You can make a gift from the balance or residue of your estate. n You can designate Seton Hall Prep as a beneficiary of your IRA, retirement account, and insurance policy.

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BOB PASTORE '60, a Southern California alumnus, speaks about why he gives back to The Prep and why he has made a planned gift to his beloved Alma Mater.

Looking back over more than 50 years, attending Seton Hall Prep was the signature event in my life. It is my finest honor. The Prep sets your character. It’s hard to believe the successes the Class of 1960 has enjoyed. My annual

Here’s how it works…

A gift to SHP in your will or revocable trust advances the mission of The Prep and will impact the lives of students and faculty for decades to come! n Include a gift to Seton Hall Prep in your will or trust. n Make your bequest unrestricted or direct it to a specific purpose. n Indicate a specific amount or a percentage of the balance in your remaining estate or trust. n Tell us about your planned gift!

Tell us about your gift by completing a simple form at shp.org/giving so that we may more effectively steward your gift. If you would instead prefer to print, complete and send your completed form to us, please find our “Estate Gift Form” at shp.org/ giving and then e-mail it to Matt Cannizzo ’90 at advancement@shp.org, or mail it to Seton Hall Prep, Attn: Advancement Office.

Please allow us to Thank You

Please let us know if you have already included SHP in your estate plan or if you are considering doing so. We would like to thank you for your generosity by including you in The Msgr. William J. Daly ’38 Planned Giving Society, so if you have already made provisions in your estate for a gift to Seton Hall Preparatory School, please let us know by using the aforementioned forms at shp.org/ giving/planned-giving. The particular details that you provide on these forms, as well as any additional information that you choose to share with us, will remain confidential.

contributions to The Prep are donated in loving memory of my parents, who scraped and saved to pay my way through The Prep.

My dad was a truck driver and my mom a homemaker and we lived in Newark. The sacrifices they made to send two of us to The Prep are astonishing. (Bob's brother Dave is a 1970 graduate.)

I have accumulated much in my life... it’ s time to give back. In fact, much of my estate will go to The Prep. I ask my fellow alumni not to forget The Prep in their plans.

Review your estate planning and consider doing something for our Alma Mater.

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Even through the toughest times

No day epitomized the energy level found on a daily basis at The Prep more than last December‘s Send-Off to the Christmas Break. Following Mass for the student body, the Band and C-Tonians revisited some of the music they had presented a couple of nights before at their concert and Rudolph showed up to lead a song-fest. Then, as Director Mike Neglia re-claimed the spot behind the drums where he had sat as a senior several years ago, Seann Farrell-steen crashed the festivities for a bring-the-house-down cover of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.”

Playing hookey from his new parish, Msgr.

Harahan was glad he didn’t miss this one.

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HANKS TO THE PREP’S ACTIVITIES PROGRAM more than 95% of the student body enjoys the opportunity to become involved in co-curricular activities.

Encompassing a wide spectrum of interests—including artistic appreciation and performance, student government, school service, pre-professional organizations, recreational groups, publications, and interscholastic competition— the 70 official clubs and organizations currently offered arise as an outgrowth of our belief statement: Healthy organizations purposefully provide for community celebration of common values and goals for personal self-renewal for all members of the community.

The past several years have seen the maturing of traditional Prep activities, like the Band, the C-Tonians, Music Ministry, dramatic productions, as well as the Student Council, Ambassadors, the Tutoring Program, and a trio of professional clubs for future lawyers, doctors and business leaders.

Several more recent additions have made significant advances in their visibility and programming. The Autism Big Brothers mentor high school-aged students at Livingston’s Children’s Institute, modeling appropriate teenage behaviors and [4-right] The C-Tonians, under the direction of Theresa Neglia, perform at a variety of occasions, including the Mothers Auxiliary Fashion Show, the Christmas Tree Lighting and the Band Concerts. They hammed it up at the Christmas Concert in December. ¶ Once a member of the band he now directs, Mike Neglia ’05 took to the podium last December, occupied for 45 years until last June by his father, Joseph A. Neglia. ¶ A most popular fall activity has annually been the Student Council sponsored Dodgeball Night, bringing together close to 200 participants, eager to vie for a trophy and the chance to raise money for a student-chosen cause. Senior Brian Phillips (l) and junior Eddie Kelly met at mid-court for the face-off. ¶ While most student activities had a chance to at least partially “do their thing,” the Robotics Team became a high profile student activities victim of the pandemic lockdown.

After working for weeks to build, program and fine-tune Version 2020 of their Bot 5992, and primed for the next step into the upper tier of New Jersey robotics programs, the team saw the quarantine scrub the first competition of the year a mere three days before it was set to happen. ¶ On a Saturday morning in late February, Colin Ruble ’21 and David Baird ’23 teamed up for work on 5992’s chassis.

Later, James Iacovitti ’20, Ruble, and Tyler Vazquez ’21 encouraged a reluctant component to fit where it belonged.

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responses to everyday situations. More than 80 Prep students vie for a scant 24 positions each year.

A pair of interscholastic competition teams looked to advance their programs. The work on Robot 5992 ensues after school and often on weekends in order for the phased work on the bot to meet a series of deadlines. After advancing last year to the regional competition at Lehigh University and, for the first time in program history, earning an invitation to the World Championships in Detroit, the team was set for another step forward. Alas, right before the first of the spring’s competitions the state went into lockdown and all their work went for naught.

For decades student interests have driven the emergence of dozens of brand new clubs and organizations. This year Tech-meister Dave Snyder ’89 oversaw the birth of a Python Programming Club and, with Zach Levy ’22, the 3D Design Club; Anthony Bulko ’22 and Music Director Mike Neglia ’05 launched the SHP Percussion Ensemble. Another new additon, the Model UN, was started up by a sophomore and a senior; with more than twenty students excited about their preparation for an April competition, the group, like so many others, must now wait until next year.

This past year the Student Council hosted a Freshman-Sophomore Semi-Formal, as well as one for the Juniors. Prep Counselor Chris Scheick ’92 has sped the development of the Car Club, with a Cars and Coffee Show in the fall. Sadly, the annual springtime CarB-Que also fell victim to the pandemic lockdown. Needless to say, other major spring and end-of-school activities faced a similar fate, including the Spring Band Concert, the Senior Prom and the spring musical, Man of LaMancha.

[right] Juniors Connor Guzman and Kyle Washington, and Grace Sawyer got set for the curtain to rise on November’s Friday evening performance of A Christmas Carol .¶ Ken Taylor ’20, Steve Park ’21 and Chinese New Year Celebration host Michael Hegedus looked on as Nick Sprague ’20 called for the trivia winner to come forward for his prize. ¶ The celebration of the Year of the Rat began with a traditional dragon dance, with Science teacher Minh Trinh ’06 bringing the beast to life. ¶ At the Christmas celebration hosted by the Autism Big Brothers, sophomore Sean Bragdon, along with his mom and sister, took the opportunity to meet Santa Claus (secretly played by a Generation-Z former president of the SHP Student Council). • Seniors Trevor Hempstead and Wayne Alley were all smiles after their visit with Santa and a share of the Christmas cookies and hot chocolate enjoyed by the evening’s guests.

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O Sing Her P raise The period was set apart by, among other things, The Prep’s dealing with the school’s perennial space issues with a major building project—the new New Duffy Hall. below- Fr. Giblin and most of the faculty and staff look on as SHU President Msgr. Thomas G. Fahy breaks ground for, at the time, the most modern example of architecture on Campus.

In this continuing feature, the Tower Revisited presents the next two chapters in The Prep’s 2006 sesquicentennial book, “O Sing Her Praise.” This 150th anniversary project was meticulously researched by former Prep English teacher Ken Comer ’73, examining primary sources and conducting numerous interviews with figures from the period. The book was designed and published by Tower Revisited Editor Richard Morris H’95.

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And be ye faithful in her eyes ...

Chapter Six 1969 THROUGH 1980

¶ A New Headmaster ¶ Turbulent Times—On Campus and At Large ¶ A Time of Expansion ¶ Some Memorable Firsts ¶ Duffy Hall Becomes the “New Building”—Again

VEN PRIOR TO THE BEGINNING OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR 1968-1969, THERE BEGAN AN ERA MARKED AS “NEW” IN MORE WAYS THAN ANYONE COULD ANTICIPATE. Msgr.

Tuohy’s acceptance of the pastorship of Our Lady, Queen of Peace Parish, just after the previous school year ended, was followed on July 5th with the announcement by Archbishop Boland that Fr. William Giblin had been appointed The Prep’s fourth Headmaster.

Fr. Giblin had served at The Prep for seven years, and had held a number of administrative positions, most recently Director of Athletics and Director of Guidance.

When the full faculty returned to prepare for the new school year, change was everywhere, in what would become a year of firsts. All had already known of the untimely death of Fr. Ronald Little in an automobile accident, less than a mile from the Campus, on July 13th. He had served barely one year on the faculty.

No fewer than 11 new teachers joined the faculty this year, along with a new full-time Guidance Counselor and a new Assistant Headmaster, Gregory Murtha, the first layman to hold the position. Edward Casey joined Fr. Kelly in the Guidance Office, the latter having shifted there to cover the promotion of Fr. Giblin. Six laymen—Lawrence Casciano ’64 (Science), Donald Dorfl inger (German), Paul Eyanson (Phys. Ed.), Alex O’Neill (Math), John Prisco ’64 (English), Walter McMahon (History/Math)— were joined by five priests in the Religion Department—Fr. Donald Scherer (Science) and Frs. James Sharp ’46, Harry Nelson, Philip Rotunno and Stephen Kilcarr.

As the Pirate noted in March 1974, the 70’s would prove to be a trying time, with many changes in store—on the local as well as on the national scenes.

Curricular changes also greeted the returning students, including an expanded Guidance Department and new courses in

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Electronics and Advanced Calculus. In a move that few now remember or may never even have known of, nine girls from Marylawn joined seven Prepsters in a co-ed Physics Class taught

by Mr. Theroux. Lectures were taught at Marylawn and lab periods were held at Seton Hall. The course was scheduled for the last period of the day so that students could be shuttled between the two schools. The idea of The Prep going co-ed had been bandied about for many years, and still is at times. Now you know the truth that, although in a strictly limited fashion, it was tried in 1968. This ranked as one of the earliest and most unique firsts of the tenure of the new Headmaster.

The autumn was fi lled with tributes to Msgr.

Tuohy, as he was honored by the Alumni Association and by the entire faculty and student body at the Mass of the Holy Spirit that opened the school year. Shortly thereafter, the Mothers and Fathers Clubs held a special banquet in his honor.

Mr. Joseph Kane accepted the position of Athletic Director, becoming the first layman to hold that post. ¶ All was not positive however, as, in keeping with the tenor of an era that

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would become known for radicalism and turbulence, the first student boycotts of the cafeteria were staged on September 20th and October 11th of this year, demanding improved food and service. Perhaps the most unique thing about these Student Council-led boycotts was that they were sanctioned by Fr. Giblin, who granted all students the right to bring their lunches or to go off-Campus for lunch on those two days. There was clearly a new man in charge!

A sad day in Prep history occured when news reached the school that Navy Lt. John H. Harrington ’63 had been killed during a flight training mission in Texas. John had been an exemplary student at The Prep, receiving scholarship offers from several colleges and all three Service Academies. He had been married for only six weeks. Tragedy had visited The Prep and the Harrington household twice, only two years apart.

Students were affected, and most felt it to be in a positive way, by the new policy of not requiring book reports for each title assigned for Summer Reading. The new testing policy, stressing thoughtful reflection on themes, as well as the change in selection of many titles, was also well received by most students. Exam exemptions were again among the most pressing issues brought up to the new administration. Student Council officers Ray Bruno, Ralph Andreano, Jim Rochford, Joe LaConte and Paul Brennan found themselves with both new powers and responsibilities during the Giblin administration. After seniors retained the right to eat lunch off-Campus, the acquisition of good fast food and a timely return to Campus became an art form much admired by the other students and much looked forward to by all underclassmen.

Incidentally, this was the first year in which sideburns made serious inroads among Prep students. This was also the year when the Star Trek phenomenon began in earnest.

In December several more firsts were inaugurated. The Father and Son Communion Breakfast began at Newark’s Sacred Heart Cathedral, instead of St. John’s Church, and the breakfast, which was attended by over 500, was held at Thomm’s Restaurant just around the corner, not at the Robert Treat Hotel. At the affair, Jackie Farrell, popular Yankee executive, was the featured speaker and Thomas P. Ford, Jr. ’46, First Assistant Prosecutor of Essex County, was given the J.F.K. Award as Alumnus of the Year. ¶ The Spectrum was finally given an office of its

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own—naturally, on the fourth floor of Mooney.

On the academic side, several announceThe fall production of the Dramatic Society ments were made in March for the upcoming featured two one-act plays rarely if ever seen year. There were plans for a new Humanities as high school productions. A unique twist Department; Classical Languages and Modern was the use of two casts in the staging of Eu- Languages would merge into the Language Degene O’Neill’s In The Zone, giving valuable partment, with Fr. Wortmann as Chairman; and experience to some excellent up and coming Sr. Regina Cordis Conboy S.C., former Principal thespians and ensuring continuity of quality in of Marylawn and a noted science researcher performance. Skip Bruno, Dennis Gaetano and and teacher, would join The Prep faculty as Nick Tworischuck all excelled in the first group. its first female instructor! ¶ For the first time, The second cast featured several members who seniors would be required to wear blazers. ¶ would become stalwarts of the society for sev- There would be a club Hockey Team in the foleral more years: Mike Rozek, Mark Rainey and lowing year, a re-incarnation of the sport from Mike Quirk being particularly memorable. The the late ‘30’s. ¶ The first April Fools’ edition second play, Edward Albee’s The Zoo Story was of The Pirate was published. ¶ The first Indea two-man tour de force, with veterans Bob Lu- pendent Study Course, Math 12, was instituted kasik and Paul Pengaro showing a maturity and by Fr. Manning. ¶ The first full-year of A.S.T.A. depth which pleasantly shocked many present. [Administration, Students and Teachers AssoDylan Thomas’s Under Milk Wood had a suc- ciation] was concluded with exam exemptions cessful spring run. It is noteworthy that these and changes to the dress code as its major firsts were both encouraged and supported by topics. Just some more of the firsts in the new the new Headmaster, as a sense of appreciation Headmaster’s inaugural year year. for things cultural, always present but never so The Pirate, under Patrick Zimmer, received highly touted, began to pervade The Prep Com- another first at Columbia, for the 16th time in munity. the last 17 years. The Spectrum, under Bernard Fr. Tobey, who had been either moderator Hearon, took a first as well. The Chess Team was or participant in virtually every physically de- number two in the state. manding activity, was, ironically, recovering As for sports, Football went 5-3-1 and took from his second heart attack, when he received the NJSIAA Parochial A crown. Baseball, under a volume of letters never before seen by the Post new coach Tony Verducci, went 17-6-2 and took Office in Bound Brook (55 in one day, to one the same title. Swimming copped the Catholic person). His return letter of thanks to everyone Metropolitan Championship again. Wrestling at Seton Hall was a reminder of what a special produced five District Champs for the second part of the Community this much-beloved priest time in its history, the first time having been had been. Though he would return for a brief the previous year. They were: Jim Mahon (130), part-time stint a few years later, his time with Dante Caprio (136), Mani Almeida (148), Bill us had passed too soon. His remains one of the Reinstadler (168) and Ted Krawczyk (Heavynames in Prep history remembered fondly to weight). Basketball struggled, going 4-13, but this day by all who knew him. had seen its last losing record for the next seven In an interesting sidelight, three students re- years. Just some of the year’s many standout ceived perfect 800’s in the College Boards this performances included a Freshman Football year: Kevin Leist got one on the English Compo- Team which went 9-0 and beat St. Benedict’s; a sition Achievement Test, Sergio de los Reyes got Frosh Baseball Team which demolished its first one in Spanish and Joe Petolino got one in Math five opponents; two varsity no-hitters pitched by Aptitude and another in Math 2, to go with his junior Marty Caffrey, while senior brother Paul two from the previous year in Math Level 1 and chalked up a shutout and a 19-strikeout effort.

Chemistry. ¶ Sophomore Tony Lessa spent his J.V. Basketball, under Coach Tom Gotsill, took Easter vacation on an archaeological dig, and the E.C.T. for the 6th time. for the second year in a row was able to unearth The Prom was again held at the Manor, with fossils which were over 200 million years old this year’s theme being, “When Shall We Meet and which added directly to the body of scien- Again.” ¶ The yearbook was dedicated to Msgr. tific evidence of the area. His accomplishments Tuohy. ¶ In another first, the Headmaster were noted by both the Newark Museum and the created a new tradition with the First Annual Newark Evening News.

Activities and Awards Dinner, held at the Gal-

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leon Room. Sports and activities awards were co-mingled, with honors in all areas being recognized by the entire Prep Community. ¶ 185 seniors graduated that June, the only one of Fr. Giblin’s twelve graduations where less than 200 were so honored. The “Boom” of the 70’s was about to hit.

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As the ’60’s came to a close and transitioned into the ’70’s, there were serious issues affecting not just our students, but all 18-year olds nationwide.

The on-going war in Vietnam continued to divide the Nation, not just along political lines, but also along generational lines, like no single issue before or since. The reaction to the recently completed Woodstock Festival and the anti-draft and prodrug attitudes of many of the Nation’s young people were straining relations in homes and in communities across the country.

The new draft lottery system and the issue of the 18-year-old vote were also front and center at this time. Perhaps due to a general sense of frustration, or perhaps because of the continued crowding on the Campus due to the huge Prep enrollment and The University’s attempts to accommodate a suddenly burgeoning student body of its own (including a sudden need to handle large numbers of newly admitted female students), tensions occasionally erupted this year in a war of words between the two Campus entities.

The perennial problem of “parking” was exacerbated; it became the subject of wry humor as, for eight hours of every day, cruising the parking lots for a space became virtually an intramural activity. Since most Prep students arrived on Campus early enough to get good spaces, they were resented all-the- more by late-sleeping, late-arriving University students, who assumed that the purchase of a parking decal entitled them to the availability of a spot.

Anyone forced to give up a much-coveted spot

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to leave Campus for any reason could expect at least a verbal confrontation, if not a physical one, both upon their exit from and re-entry to Campus. Imagine any mall or shopping center in the week before Christmas and you have a picture of what Seton Hall students went through at least once per day. Parking on the streets adjoining the Campus risked municipal tickets, towing, or both, and virtually guaranteed a late slip from the Dean of Men. Competition for use of facilities was also growing steadily, with increasing animosity from University students who resented Prep

A Tom Michelli ‘70 scrapbook captures a Student Council meeting in the Library.

affairs held at the Student Center, dances and intramurals which made use of Walsh Gym, and for many, the mere presence of a Prep school in the middle of their Campus. These difficulties, not new to this year or even this decade but formerly treated as “background noise,” would grow steadily over the coming 15 years. Dueling editorials in The Pirate and The Setonian, once the exception, would become the rule.

The faculty was augmented for the new year by the arrival of Sr. Regina Cordis in Chemistry, Fr. Anthony Kulig ’53 in Religion, Russell Coen in Math, Anthony Scarpello in Phys. Ed., and Thomas Cregan ’65 in German and English. Within several months, Fr. James Kirchner would join the priest faculty in Religion and Robert Farrell would be brought in to conduct

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special “language arts” classes designed to prepare students for successful forays into foreign languages. This class of faculty additions is specially marked by the long tenure of a number of its members: Sr. Regina would finish her long teaching career with many years of service to The Prep, followed by several years of volunteering in several offices for as long as her health permitted; Fr. Kulig would serve for many years in multiple faculty and administrative positions and by moderating many activities; Mr. Cregan continues to serve The Prep at the time of the Sesquicentennial, most recently as Director of Guidance, and for many years as The Dean of Men, having acquired 36 years of seniority, placing him presently in sixth position on that list; Bob Farrell’s eventual contributions as Head Basketball Coach, would eventually see him counted among the most respected basketball mentors in the Nation.

In keeping with last year’s theme of “firsts,” a few for this year are noteworthy. Mr. Kane was named the first Assistant Headmaster for Finance, and would be replaced as Athletic Director by Fr. Kilcarr. ¶ The first Drum and Bugle Corps was created by Fr. Philip Rotunno, featuring 50 students and three professional coaches. ¶ For the first time ever, the grading system was changed from numbers to letters. Also for the first time, 21 students received Letters of Commendation from The National Merit Scholarship Corporation. ¶ The first Advanced Placement Courses were created, allowing students to test for college credits in several areas. The first two students, Peter Materna and Thomas Murphy, were enrolled simultaneously in a Physics class at The University and The Prep, receiving credit for both. ¶ Fr. Paul Manning missed a class, the first in 10 years, due to a severe respiratory infection. ¶ A hike to the top of 4,200 ft. Mt. Hunter featured 31 Prep students, accompanied by Mr. O’Rourke and Fr. Sherer. ¶ The first Archdiocesan-wide College Fair, with over 150 colleges present, was held at East Orange Catholic. ¶ The first

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edition of The Prep’s fourth publication, the modern language magazine “Speculum Vitae” was arranged by Mr. Fischer with the help of Jan Herman and an editorial board. ¶ The Rocket Club launched its first “manned” flight on November 22nd, when Gregory Adolph, a white mouse, made a short rocket flight above the parking lot, watched by over 100 Prepsters.

Achieving a height of over 800 feet, the capsule jettisoned perfectly, landing near the football field; Gregory Adolph lived to be observed for many months by Fr. Scherer’s classes. ¶ The second year of the co-ed Physics class was held this year during the first period of the day. ¶ For the first time in five years, and only the second time in 22 years, The Newark Evening News ignored its own point system and the recommendation of its analyst, Dr. Roger B. Saylor, to rank Westfield above The Prep for the State Championship in football. ¶ The first female cheerleading squad was formed this year under the watchful eye of Sr. Regina, a development for which Prep students of the period remain forever grateful. ¶ The underground tabloid The Grapevine emerged for the first time this year ¶ and the Drama Society, ably assisted by a large number of girls from neighboring high schools, performed an original satire, crafted specifically to the strengths and talents of the group by Mr. Dawson. ¶ The last “first” to mention, though the list of “firsts” could go on, is the first Creative Arts Festival, arranged by Fr. Philip Rotunno and Edwin Havas.

Not everything was new however, as tradition remained strong despite the sometimes violent rate of change in the world at large. The year began, as always with The Mass of the Holy Spirit, with contemporary folk music now firmly entrenched as the style of school liturgies. ¶ Ties to the Village of South Orange were never stronger, as it celebrated the Centennial of its charter, which had come nine years after Seton Hall had moved to town. ¶ A gubernatorial debate between Congressman Cahill and former Governor Robert B. Meyner was held at Walsh Auditorium with the entire Senior Class in attendance. (It seems worth mentioning the irony that few at the University objected when Prep students helped to bulk up audiences for selected University functions, usually serious in nature, which otherwise would have appeared particularly empty. Though the University administration always understood this benefit to our presence on Campus, and often thanked us

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for it, the student body at large usually seemed unaware of or unappreciative of the contribution we made.)

Several pieces in The Pirate by Mike Rozek, including a satire of a visit to Mr. Murtha’s office, remain classics to this day. ¶ This year’s production of “Twelve Angry Men,” with a cast led by John Trzepacz and Mike Barnes, put it firmly in the repertory of the school, where it has remained a perennial favorite, due to its timeless theme and, with one exception, all male cast. ¶ The Musical this year, “Showtime on Broadway,” featured selections from many favorites, and was directed for the second year in a row by Mr. Joe Ruddy. With Fr. Kulig, who had directed many shows before his arrival acting as moderator, it wouldn’t be long before full blown productions of Broadway classics made their way to The Prep.

The Mothers Auxiliary’s “Cruise into Spring” Card Party was a huge success, and as always, helped to keep the student activities fund viable. ¶ Richard Williams replaced the ailing Fr. Rutkowski in the spring, covering both Latin classes and several periods in the Dean of Men’s Office. ¶ Plans for pre-fab classrooms were put on hold, causing anticipated changes to Mooney Hall to wait as well. ¶ Mike Harrington won the Student Council elections for the following year; he would have to fill quite a void created by the graduation of Tom Vaughn, who had overseen the expansion in the role of this office on Fr. Giblin’s watch. ¶ Gary Lubowiecki preserved a perfect 16-0 personal record in Debating, and was ranked third in the state. ¶ In the Arts, five talented juniors—Ed Deren, Kevin Dowd, Drew Knapp, Tom Micchelli and Bill Senior—accompanied Mr. Havas to the preview of the Teen Arts Festival in Trenton, garnering many ideas which they would share with the school the following year, as they took up positions as leaders in this area. They would turn out to be some of the most talented students in these areas who would ever attend the school.

Prior to this school year, in May of 1969, Bishop Dougherty had resigned from the University Presidency, and Msgr. Edward Fleming had accepted the job on an interim basis. In June 1970, Fr. Thomas Fahy was appointed 14th President of The University, in a move that gladdened many longtime Prep people who were well aware of his selfless service on The Prep faculty for nine years (1947-1956), and his devotion to the ideals of the school. He took office

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with a pledge to “do his best to help The Prep solve its problems.” He was the Commencement Speaker at the June 14th ceremony, where 208 seniors received diplomas. ¶ The Tower this year was dedicated to Rev. Martin J. Foran of the Math Department.

The start of a decade seems like a good time for an economic check: tuition had gone from $430 per year when the Class of 1970 had entered, to $650 this year, and grumblings were heard. A Prom bid for the 145 seniors who attended “Moments to Remember,” at the Manor was $26 per couple, $15 if all their Spring Musical tickets had been sold.

In an exceptional year for athletics, Basketball went 14-7, reversing the trend of the previous two years and returning to their winning ways. Baseball went 20-5-1 and took the Parochial A North State Title, as did Football with its 7-0-1 record. Indoor and Outdoor Track were both NJSIAA Parochial Champs, and Wrestling took the Districts with a remarkable, yet soon to be surpassed, eight district champions, and a 10-2 record in dual meets. Tennis went 9-3 and made it to the semi-final round of the State Tournament. Hockey graduated to varsity status and pursued an independent 16-game schedule, with an eye towards joining a league as soon as possible. In Freshman Baseball, John Healy hurled a no-hitter against East Orange.

As tragedy and sadness had been frequent visitors to the Campus over the years, it is noteworthy that their attempted visitation upon us during the winter turned out fortunately to be a mighty “swing and a miss.” On a bus trip to New York’s Lake George region for a ski trip, led by advisers Bill Safranek and Russ Coen and accompanied in a second bus by a contingent from Union High School, icy conditions caused the Prep bus to fishtail, lose control and plunge off the road into a ditch. As the bus toppled onto its side, the two teachers were ejected from their seats in the front, through the windshield; dozens of Prepsters, some bloodied, stumbled around in the dark among the scattered ski equipment and luggage. The Union High bus was less fortunate—swerving to avoid the Prep bus as it fishtailed, it veered off to the left, and tumbled down a 35-foot embankment, causing not only serious injuries, but some fatalities. In the age before cell-phones, accurate information was slow to arrive back in South Orange, and the frantic hours spent by Prep parents in trying to unravel the truth about the safety of

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their sons must have been unnerving. Although ¶ Students throughout The Prep were writing horror had visited itself on the Union High Com- and talking about the issues of the day as never munity, Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton and a few before—the Cambodian Crisis and President others must have been watching over the Prep Nixon’s handling of it were front and center with that night.

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Change remained a constant in the next year, as Yvonne Mahoney became the first laywoman, and the first person of color to become part of the faculty, teaching Spanish. She was joined by two priests, Fr. Joseph Wozniak and Fr. John Vaccarro, who would both be teaching Religion. In addition there were seven laymen: Joseph Walsh ’66 and Robert Kennedy in English, Richard Morris in Spanish, Richard McSorley in Phys.

Ed, Anthony Podolski ’66 in Math, Harry Mooney in Humanities and John Navarro in German and Physics. Mr. Morris and Mr. Walsh would eventually become members of the “lifers” club.

In a major move for the new school year, Fr. Anthony J. Kulig became the Dean of Men and Mr. Egan became his full time assistant.

All activities and scheduling would now be coordinated through this office. With the plans for pre-fab classrooms and labs on hold and an impetus growing for an addition to Duffy Hall, other renovations were completed throughout the physical plant. The Science Department Office and the Physics Lab were moved to, naturellement, the fourth floor of Mooney Hall. Humanities moved to the back rooms of the Stafford Hall Library and an entirely new sound system was installed throughout the school, including speakers in all hallways. ¶ Early in September, Father Fahy, Ralph Nader and retired Supreme Court Justice Abe Fortas were the main speakers in a week-long University lecture series titled “Alternatives to the American Crisis,” with many of The Prep’s most committed students and faculty members in attendance. The conference received a good deal of national press coverage.

young people throughout the country. Ironically, or maybe not so ironically, the hit movie of the year was Patton, perhaps because of its straightforward theme of good versus evil—portraying a time when the lines between the two seemed

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much more clearly drawn.

This was a year that included an evaluation by the Middle States Association of Secondary Schools, and therefore the progress of the institution over the preceding ten years would be subject to scrutiny by an outside group at the very time it was going through rapid internal changes and developments so apparent to all. ¶ The Medical Club, Engineering Club and Future Lawyer’s Club were all organized this year, as was the Bowling Club under Mr. Heuther. In addition, the National Honor Society, under the direction of Mr. Dorfl inger, was revived. The Latin Club was incorporated into The Junior Classical League; The Polish and Ukrainian Clubs were formed; the new Ecology Club took numerous field trips to study pollution and its effects on the environment. ¶ With the Cheerleading Squad in its second year, even more girls were brought to Campus as Marylawn created a Color Guard 17 strong, which would march alongside the new Prep Drum and Bugle Corps, now 70 in number. They all would participate in their first St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City and several others throughout New Jersey, culminating with two appearances over the Memorial Day weekend.

The newest publication for foreign languages changed its name from the Speculum Vitae to The Kaleidoscope and moderator Mr. Fischer and senior Frank Chervenak pushed for the publication of two issues this year. They took a first place at Columbia in their first full year of operation. ¶ Mr. Fischer’s other activity proved tougher, as he had to cut 45 of the 60 who tried out for the Rifle Team. ¶ As if to reinforce the cyclic nature of education, the Student Council returned to the first problem of Fr. Giblin’s tenure, with renewed complaints about the quality of food in the cafeteria. A.S.T.A took up this and other hot-button issues as well.

The fall drama was The Front Page and featured stellar performances from Mike Rozek, John Pryor, Dan Peck, Kevin Dowd, Walt Schoenknecht and Steve Fedos. In the spring,

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The mammoth production of “Oliver” in 1971 brought together the directorial talents of Fr. Anthony (Cecil B. de) Kulig (bottom right) and the set design artistry of Ed Havas (bottom left).

there was another departure as Theater of the Absurd was staged, combining both original and established shorts which were linked thematically. The evening opened with a preposterously compressed version of “Alice in Wonderland” written by Mr. Dawson and continued with “Still Alarm” by George S. Kaufman and “The Bald Soprano” by Eugene Ionesco.

The Spring Musical was Oliver, representing both the first full “book” show that The Prep had done and the directorial debut at The Prep of Fr. Kulig, who would be come to be known as “ Cecil B.” for his ability to move huge numbers of choristers on and off stage repeatedly while maintaining a quality rendition of musical numbers already widely known and often loved by a large percentage of the audience. ¶ Fr. Rotunno, ever a teacher, began the practice of salting the Musical’s student orchestra with a few professionals to make for a superior sound, while giving his players a chance to learn from and play with the best musicians in the area.

In this production, Mark Sole took the role of Oliver, Stanley Taylor portrayed Fagan, John Gassart was The Artful Dodger, Paul DiGaetano was Bill Sykes and Sarah Picillo, Nancy. More than 5000 saw the show during its three-night run.

In November, the Village of South Orange granted a variance for a major addition to Duffy Hall, and plans were discussed and adjusted throughout the next several months. One faculty meeting debated the merits of each of plans A, B, C, D and E, one of which actually included a sky-walk over the driveway between Mooney and Duffy. On February 8th, The Prep Community conducted a groundbreaking for the new addition and was fortunate to have Msgr. Duffy himself preside. ¶ At the Father and Son Communion Breakfast in December, New York Knick guard Mike Riordan gave the main talk and Sam Champi ’62, Bronze Star winner in Vietnam and former West Point star student and athlete accepted the J.F.K. Alumni Award from Fr. Mike Kelly. ¶ The Mothers Auxiliary raised over $17,000 for student activities from their “Journey To Japan” Card Party. ¶ After 12 years, Fr. Wortmann turned over the moderator-ship of The Pirate to Fr. Kirchner. With the arrival of Mr. Morris, the former Editor of The University’s Galleon yearbook, The Tower had become his responsibility, former Moderator Fr. Manning using the extra time to pursue additional graduate studies. A new look to the yearbook would begin to emerge immediately as narrative piec66

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es and innovative layouts made the book truly cutting-edge for high school publications.

An article in The Pirate featured Fr. Kelly (Captain) in his National Guard Chaplain’s uniform and made mention of his responsibilities in that role, as well as that of the Chaplaincy of the NJ Military Academy at Sea Girt and most recent acceptance of the Chaplaincy for the South Orange Police. It noted that he had traditionally coached three freshman sports, which he had recently cut back to two, only to replace it with an even greater role in the steadily developing Hockey program. (He was actually pretty much funding it out of his own pocket.) The article marveled at his level of vigor and dedication to all things Prep for the past eight years, and seized the “excuse to deliberate on his inspiring career, to thank him for his exemplary vigor, and to encourage him to remain always the Father Kelly we know today.” How accurate a sentiment, some 35 years ago! How he has honored that request, becoming, if it is possible, even more omnipresent as the years have passed!

Indoor Track took its second Parochial A NJSIAA Title in a row; Baseball was 26-4-1 and took both the Greater Newark Tournament and the Parochial A North Title; Hockey went 9-7-0 and took the “B” Division Championship in their first year in a varsity league; Swimming returned to their title-winning ways to take the Catholic Metropolitan Championship; Basketball went 11-7; Football went 8-1; and Wrestling, 9-2-1, producing five District Champs, two of whom, Paul Natale and Manny Almeida, were state runners-up and one of whom, Dante Caprio became the 148-pound State Champ, compiling a 68-51 lifetime record. Club Soccer, inaugurated by Coach Richard McSorley, scraped together a few games and started on a road to full acceptance, just a few years away.

The Athletic and Activities Dinners were split again, as it had proved unmanageable on a logistical level to combine the two. The Activities Dinner was held in the Galleon Room and featured awards to several hundred students who had participated in 15 different activities. Dr. John Duff, SHU Vice-President, spoke about the importance of activities in educating the whole man. Fr. Kulig served as emcee for the event.

Special honors were presented to Mr. Hoffman, Fr. Manning and Fr. Wortmann.

The Athletic Dinner featured Msgr. Daly’s awarding of his namesake trophy to the “outstanding student athlete” in the senior class Rick

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Pawlewicz. Bob Wolff, the voice of the Rangers and Knicks, gave the keynote speech. The Pirate selected 11 “Best Athletes” this year: Jim Addonizio in Football, Ted Schoenhaus in Baseball, Frank Meehan in Basketball, Paul Donovan in Cross-Country, Jack Gardner in Golf, Doug Baird in Rifle, Don Drew in Hockey, Fred Keuthen in Tennis, James Carter in Track, Dante Caprio in Wrestling and Steve Johnston in Swimming.

The Tower eschewed a formal dedication, but rather recognized six men of significance: Fr. Manning, Fr. Kelly, Msgr. Fahy, Tom Sheridan and two faculty members who were celebrating 25 years, Mr. Ciccone and Mr. Caprio. ¶ The Prom was again held at The Manor. ¶ On Sunday June 20, 210 seniors received diplomas and heard a Commencement Address given by Mr. Abner West, principal of and legendary coach at Jefferson High School in Elizabeth. Valedictorian Frank Chervenak and Salutatorian Fred Keuthen addressed the audience.

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The year 1971-72 would be remembered as the year that “New Duffy,” the longed-for addition consisting of four floors of desperately needed space, became available for academics. It added six classrooms, two “language labs” and stateof-the-art laboratories for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Lockers were placed throughout, alleviating some of the congestion in Mooney Hall and making passing between classes somewhat easier. Fr. Rotunno would take over the old Biology complex on, of course, fourth floor of Mooney and convert it into a cozy two-room Arts Center, with instrument storage, an instrumental classroom and a main classroom with office area which would become the gathering spot for all things musical for the rest of our stay on Campus. A good deal of the work on this complex was completed by Fr. Rotunno himself.

The only new faculty member that September was Fr. Michael Quinlan, a Franciscan originally from Ireland, who would become a favorite with students for his quick wit and lilting brogue. He joined the English Department where he taught mostly British Literature to seniors.

Top-performing students honored at the opening Mass of the Holy Spirit were Nicholas Gengaro, George Perez and Andrew Chirovsky.

Student Council Preseident for the year was Patrick Quigley who inherited and furthered an “imperial” student council presidency which

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this period had engendered. Four students attended University courses this year: Kevin Mulhern chose Russian and Bob Cardinale, Bill Hearon and Russ Stevens chose The American Judicial Process.

When both Fr. Wozniak and Fr. Vaccarro were lost to the University early in the year, Fr. Bradley, Fr. DeRosa and Fr. Manning combined to fill the gap by merging classes and adjusting the content. What emerged was an overview of religious issues from a philosophical, psychological and social standpoint.

The Fall Drama The Andersonville Trial, featured some timeless and very timely questions, including when a soldier must obey orders and when he is required by personal morality to disobey them. The production went on the road to both Mt. St. Dominic’s in Caldwell and the Veteran’s Hospital in East Orange. ¶ Pirate editors attended a performance of Man of LaMancha at the Paper Mill Playhouse and afterwards interviewed lead and local celebrity Jerome Hines of The Metropolitan Opera about his personal faith and his opera I am the Way, a passion story, which he wrote and staged. ¶ The Spring Musical was The King and I, which featured Mike Rocco as the King, with other male leads portrayed by Tom Gutowski, Al Rutherford, Brad Barnes, William Fragetta and Kevin Kelleher. The female leads were Joan Koegal, Judy Thoma and Joan Upton. In the spring, the Dramatic Society once again tackled Shakespeare, this time with The Taming of the Shrew, with the leads going to Steve Fedos, Betsy Reilly, Edward Tirpack, Dwight Ligham and Mark Vitiello. ¶ A fascinating diversion was created in October when Chess Team members from Seton Hall and numerous area schools gathered in the Library, along with their coaches and moderators, to challenge Grandmaster Arthur Bisguier in a simultaneous 37-game match. He defeated all comers, including Moderator Mr. Coburn.

As in several earlier years, there were a number of prominent speakers who came to Campus to address issues of pressing concern, many of whom were quite controversial. This year featured: William Kunstler, Ernest Cuneo, Jack Anderson and Rod Serling. ¶ In a move which gladdened all Prep family members, Fr. Tobey was well enough to return part-time to assist in Biology classes. His emotions were powerful and sincere when he said, “returning to The Prep is like coming back to life.” ¶ New Selective Service requirements, the expulsion of

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Taiwan from the United Nations and the slowwinding down of the Vietnam War were all hot button issues this year.

Closer to home, a Railroad Club was formed

by Mr. Dorflinger ¶ the Scuba Club was reconstituted under Mr. Kennedy ¶ The Ski Club joined with Mt. St. Dominic’s for several trips under the guidance of Mr. Walsh and Mr. Heuther ¶ the Ukrainian Club became The Students for a Free Ukraine ¶ the Drum and Bugle Corps, under student leadership (Pat Quigley, Charles Rauch, Bob Millea, Peter Dubicki, John Piecko, John Lyons and George Kiernan), had an unbelievable third year ¶ The Pirate dropped its longstanding “Men of the Month” column ¶ a female Rifle Guard was added to halftime shows at football games ¶ 12 East Orange Catholic girls became Wrestling cheerleaders ¶ and impeachment was threatened for Student Council officers who consistently failed to attend meetings.

The issue of The Prep cafeteria again came front and center when senior Nick Gengaro, at the Student Council’s request, delivered a scathing 40-point report detailing shortcomings of both the cafeteria and lavatory facilities. The author’s thoroughness, reputation and delivery gained immediate attention from the A.S.T.A. Board and student body alike and a promise that steps would be taken and that progress would be monitored. ¶ The congestion during the fourth period lunchtime prompted teachers to be more flexible with class admissions and late slips, as the laws of Physics taught only a few floors above were constantly flouted in the basement caf. Those who ended up at the end of the line (invariably freshmen), sometimes heard the bell before their first bite!

This is also the year of the “Bubble,” that temporary “indoor” air dome constructed by the University next to the baseball field. Though it would collapse three times over the years, at the time it seemed both an engineering marvel and a solution to space problems, which were never helped by being tied to the vagaries of weather. Though the Bubble was a help, especially to the Track Team, it would become another facility for which The Prep had to vie for usage. The success of the University’s own programs, together with intramurals and the eventual advent of Title IX women’s teams, as well as The Prep’s requests for its use, became simply a question of putting too many people into too few spaces—at the same time!

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The Father and Son Communion Breakfast, led by Master of Ceremonies and Fathers Club President Tom Reynolds, was again attended by over 500. Dr. Joseph O’Connor ’50 received the J.F.K. Award and delivered a sentiment not unlike that heard so many times, both before and since: “The greatest gift I received from Seton Hall was that of faith and the ability to overcome defeat, for to accept defeat and rise above it is the mark of a man.” When plans for a featured speaker fell through at the last minute, Fr. Kilcarr saved the day by recounting from memory the Yankees 1949 pennant win, statistics and all, to the amazement and enjoyment of all present.

Another memorable feature of this year was the benefit game between The Harlem Wizards and a team of brave faculty members (Cregan, Walsh, Butler, Gotsill, Prisco, Kelly, Morris, Bradley, Coen, Hoffman and Persichetty), which helped to raise over $3300 for the Duffy Hall Building Fund. The “contest” had been instigated and negotiated by fast-friends and fellow assistant basketball coaches Gotsill and Butler.

It proved so popular that the Wizards manager, upon walking into the auditorium and seeing a full-house, tried to re-negotiate the contract in the locker room prior to the game. Sr. Regina supplied an unforgettable moment when, enraged by the all-too-graphic performance by the gyrating dancers the Wizards had brought for the half-time entertainment, she got up off her spot in the bleachers, hobbled across the floor and yanked the power cord from the tape recorder supplying the music— all in front of a stunned SRO crowd! ¶ In February, Miss Jean Bagiackas stepped in for Fr. Arnold DeRosa, covering his three French classes for the balance of the year.

In February shocking news spread throughout the entire Community, though it was not entirely unanticipated: St. Benedict’s Prep would close in June. The first half of The Pirate editorial of February 21st, entitled “When the Cheering Stopped,” probably summed things up as well as any: “The shocking news of the closing of St. Benedict’s Prep after years of fruitful productive existence, struck the homes of many of our friends in lightning bolt fashion. The tragic news, which broke at Seton Hall last Wednesday and the accompanying displacement of hundreds of people is not unlike in sadness

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the destruction of one’s own home by fire or flood. As is the case with all such displacements, the closing of St. Benedict’s on June 1 will definitely affect the entire surrounding community. We who have a historical and traditional common chord cannot escape the impact, either. For decades the High School has been our competitor for the status of unparalleled excellence in academics and sports; the arena has seen scores of prodigious contests, from which both schools have profited and of which both schools are proud.”

Though there would be further mention of this event in the following year, when we became the home to many of those displaced by this unfortunate event, memorable is the gesture extended by Seton Hall at the end of this year. The February announcement precipitated a trashing of previously completed layouts when the editors decided to dedicate The Tower to St. Benedict’s Prep. Editor Don Rubino, in the company of Fr. Kelly and Mr. Morris, ventured down to the Grey Bees’ final Baccalaureate Awards Assembly the night before their last Commencement to deliver it personally to their Headmaster Fr. Cornelius Sweeney, O.S.B. and the assembled seniors and families. The crowd was audibly stunned as Don took to the podium and read: Do you remember all the times we fought in the past?/ So many times we won, but I can remember you with the upper hand./ Enemies for so many years—for so many seasons— so many games./ We were never so close as at those times when we would battle on the field/ or on the court with our mouths or with our fists./ Do you remember all those times? / cheers in the gym, banners in the halls, scores in the paper— / just your name whispered in the lockers to get the team up, / to get them so psyched, banging their hands raising their voices praying for your defeat. / Such a sick feeling when we’d lose to you. / But the taste of victory so sweet against you. / Rivals for so long, friends for so much longer. / ‘The bee is dead’ no longer a football cheer but the harsh reality. / How we hate to see you go. / Our minds may forget the rivalry but our hearts will always remember the friendship.

In what would seem only to be wishful thinking in 1972 when it was written, Andrew Chirovsky reviewed Andrea Amalrik’s book:

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Will the Soviet Union Survive Until 1984? record at West Point, and Vince Campi owned quick reflexes would also become the stuff of Though the means of decline would be quite the year as he re-set his own records repeatedly, legend. Rounding out this very varied group different than that anticipated, the significance culminating in a nation’s best 32.0 in the 300- was Fr. Herbert Clancy, a world- traveled Jesuit of the exercise in speculation was not lost at all yard run. missionary, retreat giver and confidant of many, on a student body who knew from their study of The Prom, with a simple theme of “Friends,” including FDR. He would have two stints in the Orwell the significance of that year. Who could was once again held at The Manor. ¶ This was Social Studies Department before returning to have then imagined that the actual date of the also the last gasp of formal tuxedo pictures in the Korean missions in the late 70’s. demise would come but five years later? the yearbook. ¶ 227 seniors received diplomas “Crowded” was the watch-word for this year, The Mothers Auxiliary Card Party took place on June 18th. as we took in over 100 former Benedict’s stuunder the direction this year of Anna May Crawdents on several academic levels. The transition ford, who would remain a stalwart supporter of was surprisingly smooth, and their integration all Prep functions long after her son’s leaving. into The Prep’s student body was quick, with The event raised a record $20,000. The affair Academic 1972-1973 began with the addition many joining fall teams and almost all getting had grown steadily, and was attended this year of seven new faculty members, and, in an- involved in some form of activity. Old rivals beby over 1350 people in a fully-decorated Walsh other first, three of them were women. Mary came fast friends, and members of this and the Gym. A 1972 Ford Mavsucceeding two graduaterick was won by Junior ing classes, who would Chris Vecciarelli. This need to split their high event had come a long school years between way from the days when the two rival schools, betoasters and televisions came some of the most were the top prizes. active alumni from this Athletically, this period. Sensitive to their year featured the plight, the school awardsecond year of Club ed diplomas from both Soccer. They maninstitutions to them at aged a 2-5-1 record in the next two commencethe games they could ment ceremonies. find. Wrestling was 306 freshmen enthe powerhouse again tered this year, which this year, taking the along with the transfer Districts for a fifth students, made for a straight year, with five record-setting student individual champions. body of 1020. They Greg Cunningham went were greeted by a new on to become Regional schedule and a nine-peChamp, and Tom Arriod school day. Though While the JV plays, legendary coach Finn Tracey minio did him one better originally conceived as an points out some hardcourt fine points to Keven by becoming State Champ at 106 pounds. Baseaccommodation to the new numbers, it proved McDonald ‘74 and Dick Duckett ‘75. ball went 13-10, with John Healy, Jack Moran to have the benefit of allowing lab periods to be and Tom Blumette gaining most of the press. held within the daily schedule, many new elecFootball went 5-3-1 in a year marked by excep- Perrotta and Rhona Norinsky joined the Foreign tives to be added and additional flexibility for tionally low scoring, mainly because it seemed Language Department, while Sr. Appollonia course selections, allowing expansion of offerthat every game was played in mud. Defense Morelli, F. S. joined English. This department ings to a greater number of underclassmen. was the bright spot, as the team notched three was further augmented by the arrival of James The name of Archbishop Thomas A. Boland shutouts, including one against Essex Catholic. Ribardo, and Richard Binkowski, formerly of St. bears is in the spotlight in 1972, as it is both the Twice Bob Denman picked off three passes in Benedict’s Prep. Religion picked up the other Golden Jubilee of his priesthood and also the a game and finished the year with eight inter- Benedict’s transfer, Fr. Gerald O’Leary, who had name given to a new association inaugurated by ceptions. Basketball went an excellent 17-6 with spent 11 years at our former rival, the last few the Headmaster, a sort of Bayley-Seton League senior John McMenamin and rising sopho- as their Dean of Discipline. In the few years he exclusively for The Prep and a platform for more star Keven McDonald getting most of the would spend at The Prep, he would come to be parents of alumni who wished to stay involved attention. Hockey spent its first year in the “A” fondly remembered for his prowess in aviation in the school’s future. The A.B.A. as it came to Division and learned much despite a 1-17-2 and his willingness to share it with all future be known provided a gathering point for good record. In Track Rick Denman set a one-mile fliers. His icy stare, martial arts experience and feelings and financial resources to come to-

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gether. ¶ The Fathers Club had a banner year, with both their 800-chance $25-a-ticket Cadillac Raffle and their Second Annual Ad Journal raising more money for activities and athletics than they ever had before. These would morph slightly over time, but remain as cornerstones of their significant and come-to-be-counted-on fundraising efforts.

Many would remember this as the year of Mr. Dawson’s sabbatical and around-the-world expedition, documented regularly by articles sent to The Pirate from exotic locations and popular tourist and more esoteric destinations alike.

These would give Pirate editors an opportunity to pen such memorable headlines as “Moon Festival Culminates South Pacific Stopover” and “Polite but Profuse Population Pleases Posting Prelector,” which sent more than a few scrambling for their Webster’s.

This was also the second year for the Italian Club Spaghetti Dinner, the success of which as both a social evening and a fundraiser had been established the year before. Mrs Cerza, the Headmaster’s secretary, Fr. Vaccaro and Mr. Senerchia were the prime movers behind its success.

Students and faculty cooked, served and cleaned up, turning the cafeteria into an Italian restaurant for one night. Rumors that not all of the Chianti in the kitchen actually made it into the sauce caused student participation to skyrocket, and assured the continued strength of this night for the better part of a decade.

With Mr. Dawson away, Seton Hall University student and recent Prep graduate Steve Fedos directed the Fall Drama, Inherit the Wind, which received great support. In the spring, the legions would again be roused for three nights of South Pacific, directed by Fr. Kulig, assisted by his regulars Fr. Rotunno, Mr. Havas, Ann Butler, and so many more. ¶ Later in the year, Edwin Havas was honored for all his talents and contributions to The Prep with a portrait commissioned by the parent clubs and painted by well-known artist Bill Canfield of The Star

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Ledger. ¶ The Opera Club was revived under Fr. Rotunno, continuing a tradition which had earlier seen The Prep maintaining Saturday seats at the Metropolitan Opera for almost ten years, and exposing hundreds of students, often

Math teacher Aldo Itri and Religion teacher Fr. John Vaccaro were mainstays of the mid-seventies Spaghetti Dinners—the former providing the music, the latter, the gravy.

through the efforts of Msgr. Field, to this specialized genre of music.

On the academic side, Fr. Manning continued to teach Math classes to Prep parents, in what was truly the unique program which he led for several years. ¶ The National Honor Society

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expanded its tutoring program this year, easing the burden on some extra-help classes which the increased numbers would otherwise have caused. ¶ Mr. O’Rourke’s Afro-Asian Class was inaugurated and immediately became one of the most popular and innovative electives in the school. ¶ Several subjects were now changed to single-semester courses, allowing teachers to switch at the midterm, and allowing for exposure to a variety of content and teaching approaches within disciplines. ¶ A number of student-teachers from the University were brought in to train for their profession in a long-standing yet ever expanding relationship between the University School of Education and The Prep. This relationship was further cemented as dozens of Prep faculty members continued to study for advanced degrees at the University, a long-standing contract benefit which continued (and continues) as a cornerstone of the faculty benefits package.

Tom Kaczka helped the Debating Team and the Forensics Team to send a group to the National Championships in Chicago, where he took a first place trophy in Student Congress. ¶ May 25th saw one of the most successful Creative Arts Festivals in the school’s history, with an entire day devoted to a collegiate-style indoor/outdoor “happening.” ¶ The Drum and Bugle Corps showed what constant practice and drilling could achieve, as they took a first place trophy for execution away from teams which had been established for decades.

The year is unfortunately also remembered for the sudden passing of Mr. Ciccone, the beloved Math teacher. Along with Fr. Foran, he had taught Freshman Algebra for many years. His sometimes gruff exterior was known by all his students to conceal a heart of gold and deep caring for the success of his students, not only in the classroom, but also in life.

Athletically, the year was a huge success.

Football went 8-1, led by Rod Gardner and

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many others. Baseball, in what would be Tony Verducci’s last year of coaching that sport, went 19-8 and took the State Parochial A North Championship, led by Pirate MVP Ted Schiller, a former Grey Bee. Basketball went 18-8 with John Manning as The Pirate pick. Terry Leddy played both center and defense as Captain of the Hockey Team during its second year in the “A” division and Coach John Warchol’s first year with the team. Bill Barrett took a first in the State 400 to lead the swimming team to the Catholic Metropolitan Championship by an astounding 74-36 over their nearest competitor, St Joseph’s. Rick Denman capped four years of great running in Cross-Country and Track as Captain of this year’s team. Chris Vecchiarelli led the Bowling Team to a second place finish in the county. In Golf, Bob Silvestri, who had come over from St Benedict’s, went undefeated in dual meets to lead a young team. Wrestling remained the District powerhouse, securing the sixth of what would be 16 titles in a row. There were ten District Champs—both Ed Argast and Greg Cunningham took Regional titles, and Tom Arminio capped his career at 61-11-1, including three District titles, one Regional title and a State Title.

213 Seniors received diplomas at a rain-shortened outdoor graduation held on the lawn in front of the University Science Building, where the first drops of precipitation prompted the Graduation Speaker, Congressman Joseph Minish, to dispense with a handful of his notecards and utter a sincere “Best of Luck!” as hundreds prepared to scramble for their cars.

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This might be seen as a year of returns and reassignments. Harry Dawson came back from his trip around the world with photos, experiences and stories that would awe his classes for the next quarter-century. Fr. Joe Wozniak returned to the Music Department from the University.

Bill Safranek returned to the classroom and Joe Walsh replaced him as Assistant Dean of Men. Re-assignments included: Binkowski to English,

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Butler to Guidance, Perrotta to Italian along with Spanish, Bagiackas to Spanish along with French, Coen to Science, Tim (Tom) McManus ’65 to Math, Slevin to Math, Pierro to A.D., and probably a few others which did not receive official mention. Additionally, John Allen began teaching Math, Dean Maskevich replaced Tom Gotsill in English and Allen Setzer joined

The Brian Dowd-Ted Kocialek presentation of Zoo Story set a new standard; they took it on the road in Union County following their in-school presentation in 1974.

Science. Additionally, existing faculty shifted within their departments as electives blossomed, semester courses replaced year-long courses and traditional subjects were shifted among academic years. It is amazing that the institution gives such an impression of stability and tradition, yet regularly re-invents itself, embracing new ideas, admitting innovations which didn’t work and need to be re-thought, and moving people to many areas where their strengths and personalities can be best utilized. It is that impression which almost every graduate shares when speaking of The Prep. The delicate balance of long-term faculty members, new blood

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and short-timers, working together to slowly and steadily keep the school moving forward, while keeping the best of the past, is one of the intangibles that have contributed to continued success.

This was the year of Peter Gutowski as Student Council President, and, as all from the period will readily remember, the year of the A.S.T.A. Chairmanship of the one and only Kevin P. Duffy. His advocacy of the extension of exemptions to juniors would be enjoyed for several years by many who never knew his name or role. ¶ There was great sadness this year also, as James Stanziale (son of Ben ’52) lost his valiant nine-month fight for life after being burned severely in a house fire. Just two months later, William George, who would have graduated in ’77, died after being hit by a car at the Varsity Road gate. ¶ The newly upgraded Math Lab was dedicated in memory of Ralph Ciccone. The plaque which commemorates the occasion would later be moved to the West Orange Campus. ¶ This was also the year of Minnie Cerza’s retirement and move to Switzerland. ¶ The quadrangle looked different this year thanks to the bicycle racks and to our first bus, painted blue of course, and stenciled by senior Matt Mauriello. ¶ This was also the year of the milk boycott and the massive re-possession by Cornwall-on-Hudson of recently awarded educational aid by the State of New Jersey, setting our school on a path of active protest. A summary Pirate editorial by Don Chervenak about anti-Catholic bias helped to elucidate and crystallize our position.

The fall drama was Arsenic and Old Lace, and the Spring Musical was a hugely successful Camelot, featuring the King Arthur of Ted Kociolek, whose appearance in The Zoo Story, a special drama for the juniors and seniors, featured a 20-minute monologue, perhaps the longest in modern theater. His stage partner in this production was Brian Dowd, who, along with Ted, had treated The Prep family to years of superior musical and dramatic performances.

“New” activities featured a resurrected Hiking and Fishing club, a Performing Arts Club, a return of the Student Council Union, which

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The story of William Toliver ‘78 made news in a variety of media, not the least of which was a feature story in the 1975 Tower, called “Toliver’s Travels.” bottom-Tower E-in-C Tony Krause led springtime festivities at a post-Toliver-interview party in the yearbook office— on the fourth floor of Mooney Hall.

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partnered our council with those of several neighboring schools, a Gung Fu exhibition featuring Howard Arnet and Nigel Binns, and another hugely successful Arts Festival in the spring. ¶ This was a year remembered for Paul Hamilton’s stewardship of The Pirate, which produced a memorable retrospective issue of The Cricket featuring an interview with the first paper’s first editor, John J. Bracken. The staff put out 13 issues, which became a benchmark, twice tied, but never surpassed.

Martin G. Holleran ’54 was the Alumnus of the Year and Tom Reynolds received the Father of the Year Award. No fewer than six students were sent to Forensics Nationals. ¶ Many heard the term “born again” for the first time, as junior Sal Inserra wrote movingly in the newspaper about his religious experience.

Athletics were strong as usual, featuring a 7-1-1 Football Team and another in the string of Wrestling District Championships (10 title holders again this year), with Greg Leo, Mark Cacciarelli and Phil Schneider taking Regional titles and Greg Cunningham a third in the states. Fr. Kilcarr took over the baseball program and posted a 13-14 record in a re-building year, one of only two seasons in which he did not post a winning season. His eleven other years would see ten county rankings, a GNT title, three Iron Hills Conference Championships and a North Jersey Parochial A State Title. Basketball was 17-10, Hockey was 5-11-3, as Coach Warchol began to add his stamp to the system, and Swimming, Track, Rifle, Tennis and Golf posted successful seasons.

217 seniors received diplomas, and the guest speaker at the graduation was Hon. Joseph Walsh ’38, father of Dean of Men Joe Walsh, whose message of guidelines for a moral Catholic life is remembered still. The Tower featured a second year without a specific dedication, instead recognizing groups and programs.

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The year 1974-1975 saw the arrival of six new faculty members. Alumnus Billy Gardner ’70 and John Sauer started in Phys. Ed.; two priests, Fr. Robert Nestor and Fr. Michael Russo ’63 joined the Religion Faculty; William Zimmerman, Science. The arrival which would have the

Legendary friend-to-all, and future Hall of Famer, Tom Sheridan reviews the Star-Ledger sports page with Walter Goepel ‘73 at a Cameron Field CrossCountry meet.

greatest effect and the only one among the new faculty who would stay beyond a few years was Walter McMahon, who began his tenure at The Prep in Math.

As sadness is a part of the life of every family, so it returned early to The Prep this year. Because of its happening only two weeks after the previous year’s graduation, most learned only

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upon their return to school the death of student Louis Cozzini, hit while attempting to run across the Garden State Parkway in Irvington.

As ironies are not unknown to families either, March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day, brought news of the passing of Tom Sheridan, beloved “keeper of the gym,” whose simple conversation and caring attitude had helped both athlete and nonathlete alike, from both The Prep and University for decades. A special schedule was called on March 24th, and virtually the entire student body and faculty walked down South Orange Avenue to his funeral Mass at Vailsburg’s Sacred Heart Church. On the walk back to school it began to rain, ever-harder as the line of students neared the Campus.

After re-gathering the students in classrooms, the Headmaster took to the P.A., announcing: “You’re all wet. As Tom would have wanted it, we’ll take the rest of the day off.”

Again this year dozens of faculty accepted new assignments as the curriculum continued to develop.

Moderators were exchanged and added, and offices for those activities lucky enough to have them, were combined and re-ordered. ¶ The major shifts came with the offices of the school publications on—you guessed it—the fourth floor of Mooney Hall. ¶ Also, the in-house Chapel relocated from Room 6, near the main entrance, to the second floor of Mooney Hall, and the faculty lounge which it displaced was moved next to the Math Lab in “Old Duffy.”

Two interviews which appeared in The Pirate are most elucidating, as the reporters probed both The Prep’s Headmaster and University President Msgr. Fahy about plans for the future of both institutions, and the “rules” which would govern the relationship going forward. Msgr. Fahy, no stranger to The Prep, was most candid about the growing pains that The University was experiencing, especially as they related to the still developing full integration of women on the Campus. He was open and honest and pledged to work on parking, gym access, facilities conflicts and the like. He encouraged Prep students’ participa-

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tion in University courses and encouraged an reporter, which led to visits from many newspaon-going dialogue. He made mention of the new pers and television stations, which led to several joint shuttle bus from South Orange and Vails- days of national media coverage (including Dan burg, and hoped that this and other innovations Rather), which led to an almost exclusively posimight help to address the ever-worsening park- tive response from most areas of the country, ing problem. Years later, at the Sesquicentennial, which led to some of the best press the school the issues remain prevalent, and without it 25% never had to buy, which was clearly not what of school paper editorials over the years would had been intended by the complaining student not need to have been written. at all, which ended the year with more exciteIn the interview, the Headmaster tried to ment and energy than anyone could ever have put the co-ed rumors to rest once again, cit- hoped for. Though rumors abound, the identity ing no philosophical opposition, but merely the of the complainant has never been nailed down. practical aspect of the fact that we had been The Mothers and Fathers Clubs had banner perennially filled to capacity with the Catholic years for fundraising, as the “Around the World” boys who seek our help and that that was our Card Party/Dinner Dance attended by over 700, traditional mission and would continue to be so. and the Athletic Journal raised larger sums than A Pirate “exposé” on the admissions process ever before. helped to strengthen Fr. Giblin’s point, when it At the end of this year, The Prep was sad was revealed to all that over 1100 boys applied to lose Ed Havas to The University and a most in an average year, approximately 700 of whom distinguished gentleman, Hugo Senerchia, to were accepted, to provide a freshman class of retirement. Though they left The Prep formally, about 325 students. With normal attrition at the Mr. Senerchia returned often to keep an eye time, the numbers graduating each year wound on his beloved Italian program and Mr. Havas up in the low to middle two-hundreds. continued tirelessly to aid The Prep in all things Proving that we were not only keeping up artistic for many, many years. (His retirement with current events, but remaining ahead of has taken him far from the school, yet his travmany trends, five business leaders spent a day eling back to the Sesquicentennial Mass was in a mini-summit in the Economics classes of noted by many as a gesture typical of this gifted Mr. Douress. Their topics were oil prices and artist, born teacher and Prep stalwart.) Though consumption, inflation, corporate profits and it has become an over-used term, we truly lost the civic responsibilities of businesses. two “Renaissance men” that year.

Hand held calculators became a regular In athletics, Football went 7-2 and secured part of student life this year. They had first another Parochial A State Championship. appeared surreptitiously, were enormously ex- Wrestling produced five District Champs and pensive, and could perform only the most basic continued the string of titles on this level. Basfunctions. The models that could calculate a ketball went 14-11. Hockey continued to build, square root were beyond most students’ means. and went 8-8-1. Baseball went 18-8 and was Early in the year there was considerable interest ranked eighth in the county. Soccer officially in a couple of crates that had “fallen off a truck became varsity, and in its first year went a quite in Newark.” respectable 6-6-2.

The October Coffeehouse (a ’70’s era Of note also was the resignation, for a time, “dance”) was attended by over 600, entertained of Bill Persichetty from Track after 18 years by a popular all student band, ’Lectric Balcony. and Joe Hoffman from Forensics after 15. Each ¶ Mr. Dawson committed to an all American would return subsequently to their activities. selection of plays from now to the Bicentennial, ¶ Of concern this year was the cost of school and kicked things off with a very successful A rings, which was following the price of gold— View From the Bridge. In the spring, the show up quickly! Prom bids were now $40 per couple. was a comedy, You Can’t Take It With You. Un- ¶ My Fair Lady packed Walsh Auditorium for fortunately, the rude behavior of some students three nights. ¶ 150 students participated in the during this particular show led to a disciplinary Creative Arts Festival. ¶ Six students traveled to visit from the Headmaster, which led to an ad Philadelphia for the Forensics Nationals. ¶ Fr. hoc enforcement of a heretofore sometimes lax O’Leary helped a number of students to secure hair length policy, which led to a student get- pilot licenses and flew many in his seaplane over ting on a pay phone afterwards to complain to a the Hudson.

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The Tower was dedicated to Rev. Michael E. Kelly, Director of Guidance, and the Commencement Address was given by Msgr. Edward Larkin, Pastor of Sacred Heart, Vailsburg.

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Bicentennial—this is the word that distinguishes this and the following academic year from all others. Spanning two academic years, celebrations and acknowledgement of our Nation’s 200th birthday reminded many of just how long the school itself had been in existence. As the Country turned 200, The Prep approached 120 years-old. That September The Prep experienced possibly more upheaval in faculty than in any other. Seven teachers left and 14 were added, seven were alumni. Several remained for a number of years; four remain on the faculty still.

Both the Priest Community and the lay faculty had a very different look as the year began, and changes continued throughout the year. One of the largest number of priests in the school’s history (16), plus a seminarian, were working at the school.

John Burke ’68, Patrick Quigley ’72, Albert Calcagno ’70, John Slevin ’65, Richard Fritzky, Robert Wilhelm, Brendan Devlin, Mike Mielko ’69, John Petruccione, Toby Navarra, Anthony D’Urso, Carole Celli, Fr. Kevin Hanbury, Fr. Thomas McDade, Fr. Raymond Pavlick and Fr. James Connollen all spent at least part of this year on staff. Walter McMahon became the Assistant Headmaster for Academics, a position he still held 30 years later. The shifts of staff between jobs and among departments are too numerous to list. Fr. Wortmann spent the year studying in Germany, leaving Mr. Morris to temporarily head the Language Department. In an unexpected move that shook everyone, Fr. Kelly was appointed by the Archbishop to be Principal of Union Catholic Boys High School, with Fr. Manning joining him there to teach Math.

This was the first year of the State Aid Textbook Program. ¶ An informal Photography Class was taught after school. ¶ Freshmen were treated to their own orientation assembly, with presentations from all activities. ¶ The Retreat Program was revamped by Fr. Bradley and Fr. McDade. ¶ Rifle was passed to Greg Murtha and Fr. Al Tobey, serving limited duty because of ill-health. ¶ S.A.T. prep courses were formalized by Mr. Itri and Fr. Quinlan. ¶ The Tutorial Program was created. ¶ For the

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only time in the school’s history, three full-time shuffled and leagues continued to change. music teachers (Rotunno, Wozniak & Gianet- Wrestling provided six District Champions and tino) were working at the school. took that tournament again. Swimming took On December 29th, freshman John Collins the Catholic Metropolitan Championship. Basdied in an accident on the railroad tracks in ketball was 14-12. Football was 6-3. Baseball South Orange Village, and, as John’s father Gene improved to 18-10, to be rated fifth in the county. was a director in The University’s Public Affairs Hockey moved into the “A” division and went a Department, was remembered at a hugely- respectable 9-11-1 on that level. Bragging rights attended Memorial Mass in Walsh Auditorium, certainly belonged to the Soccer Team, which con-celebrated by Msgr. Fahy, University Presi- in only their second official season went 14-4-1 dent, and dozens of priests from the combined and took home the Parochial A North Title!

Seton Hall Community.

The year is also remembered for a New Jersey Transit strike which caused confusion and lasted two weeks (compared to the Public Service strike of 1972 which lasted more than two months). ¶ The Prep’s third bus (a proper one this time) signaled increased usage and many more activities reaching out for interscholastic competitions; Joe Walsh, Rich Morris and Gabe Pierro became licensed by the DMV, providing drivers for athletic teams. ¶ 3500 saw a rising Bruce Springsteen at Walsh Auditorium, with many Prepsters among the crowd. ¶ Mr. Butler and Mr. Fischer were instrumental Coach Peter Butler huddles with the club soccer in assisting Louis Tran in joining The Prep Com- team in the season before it graduated to varsity status. munity mere months after leaving Vietnam.

In a year of almost unparalleled stage success, the year’s theme was maintained through The senior prom’s theme was “We will never productions of What Price Glory, Raisin in the pass this way again.” Five graduates of the 219 Sun and The Caine Mutiny Court Martial. The went on to attend Service Academies. ¶ The Spring Musical was Hello Dolly. The combining Tower was dedicated to “The American Bicenof the Spring Drama Caine..., with the Creative tennial.” ¶ The Valedictorian was Gustavo de Arts Festival, which also included this year an los Reyes and the Salutatorian was Peter Wozall-school barbecue, no classes at all, athletic niak. ¶ The Commencement Address was given competitions, classroom displays and the Aero- by a visiting Fr. Mike Kelly. nautics Club’s parking lot wizardry, made for a celebration worthy of the Nation’s birthday.

Also in this year, Fred Pierro stepped down as Wrestling Coach, but retained his position The changes continued, as a new eight-period as Athletic Director. Rich McSorley stepped up schedule was implemented, which included from assistant and would coach wrestling for activity periods on Tuesday and Thursday and the next four years. the rotation of class periods within the day. This Delbarton School of Morristown was, little included some long and some short periods and by little, becoming the major rival, as we met allowed for doubling-up, which accommodated them in more and more sports, as enrollments labs and Phys. Ed. classes in an increasingly

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over-used Walsh gym.

Fr. Michael Acocella ’59 and Fr. Gerald Caprio joined the Religion Department, but would soon move on to other assignments. Robert Pellek joined the Math Department for a few years. Joseph Neglia replaced Fr. Rotunno in Music and Anthony Pucciarelli joined English; both of them remain integral parts of The Prep still. In what was becoming almost an annual shuffle, this year saw John Slevin and Tom Cregan move into the Dean of Men’s Office and Joe Walsh move out to Math, Activities and the Bookstore.

There were a number of memorable firsts this year. Patricia Anderson was hired to head a new Public Relations Department.

Moustaches were allowed for students. The Third World Organization published a newsletter with the help of senior Barry Lofton, President of the organization and Jack O’Rourke. Fr. Kilcarr and Mr. Morris taped and did play-byplay and color commentary on some very early video tape equipment at soccer games.

Brendan Devlin took over the Drum and Bugle Corps, for a time the largest organization in the school. The idea of “academic probation” was codified this year. Joe Hoffman, after letting slip in a conversation that he had been involved with his high school yearbook, ended up taking over The Tower.

In a return to classical drama, Harry Dawson mounted Othello, with a cast featuring Barry Lofton as Othello, Mark Pinheiro as Iago and Ruth Rathbun as Desdemona. The performance is still remembered as a tour de force by all who saw it. In the spring, contemporary satires returned in place of a book show. ¶ Pete Butler’s empathy was evidenced again when alumnus Bill Toliver, whose escape from Liberia and a local situation of virtual indentured servitude had been chronicled in The Tower and in statewide media in the early ’70’s, was able to return permanently to the United States. Many helped financially to make this possible. Mr. Butler also arranged the first of several summertime soccer-exchange trips with a Munich soccer club.

The Booster Club was revived by a committed

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Larry Rogers, Pat Lepore and Dennis Murphy. ¶ The Tenth Fathers Club Father-Son Communion Breakfast was held at Thanksgiving, where newly named Bishop Dominic Marconi ’45 was given the Msgr. Fahy Award, formerly the J.F.K. Award.

This year it was bittersweet, as Msgr. Fahy had so recently (October 27th) succumbed to a heart attack. This friend of The Prep, as Athletic Director, had firmly established our reputation as a high school sports program when PG’s were banned and had also held several positions at The Prep before moving on to the University. On the day the entire Campus Community was informed of his passing, nearly everyone was at Mass within a half-hour of the announcement.

Athletically this was an extraordinary year. The Football team went a perfect 11-0 for the first time in the school’s history, signaling the beginning of a dynasty.

Eight of these victories were shutouts, including the State Championship victory (our seventh since 1946) over St. Joe’s of West New York. The Bowlers came in a close second behind Kearny. The Golfers topped Delbarton. The Wrestlers topped Columbia for another District crown. Paul Deehan went an astonishing 32-1 and took the Regions; Joe Spinazzola took the first of his three Regional titles. Baseball went 25-7, taking the Parochial A North Title, was ranked second in the County and fifth in the State. George Martin threw a no-hitter against powerhouse Union on opening day. Soccer went 13-6-1. Hockey went 8-11-1 and won two out of their four Gordon Cup games. A young Basketball Team went 12-14, but the highlight of all the many seasons was Finn Tracey’s 500th victory. Shortly thereafter, at season’s end, the announcement of his retirement capped a 28-year career at the school, amassing a .653 winning percentage while enduring only five losing seasons. His personality and unique approach to life, together with his skill in coaching, had done as much as any man to spread the name of Seton Hall Prep to all who knew him and to many more who only knew of him. The gymnasium which bears his name at the West Orange Campus, where he never worked, has al-

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lowed the legend to continue, and is testimony to his many contributions to the school.

Intramurals were played in the Bubble. ¶ The first “Gong Show” was added to the Arts Festival. ¶ The Biology Club conducted a Runa-Thon to finance a trip to D.C. Ferdy Massucci, Student Council President, raffled himself off as slave for a day for charity. ¶ The Radio Club used their CB radio knowledge to assist local communities. ¶ The Magic Club was re-formed as Mr. Itri stepped in for Fr. Rotunno. ¶ The

A 1975 end-of-year faculty celebration at Denning Riva’s house featured well-known names from the era: Morris, Riva, Pierro, Coen, Podolski, O’Rourke, Persichetty, Cregan, Caprio, Kulig, Manning, Kelly, McManus, Ciccone, Dellanno, Verducci, Prisco, Slevin, Tracey, Kane, Coburn, Perrotta, Socha, Walsh, Butler, Itri, Tracey, McSorley, Egan, Allen, Roden, Seltzer, Vajsabel, Wortmann, Foran, Farrell.

National Honor Society reinstituted the idea of a senior gift, raising funds for the glass-front triptych bulletin board (which later made the move and still adorns The Prep hallway.)

The Tower was dedicated to John Slevin. Its theme was “A Prep Odyssey,” and used a time warp design to great effect. ¶ 249 seniors graduated, among the largest classes in our history.

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A new tradition began in ’77-’78, that of publishing a September Pirate broadside issue for new freshmen—with everything from Campus maps,

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descriptions of courses, listings of sports and activities, and an introduction to many of the traditions which make up everyday life at the school. These became invaluable in aiding new students to feel immediately a part of The Prep and helping to build school spirit. Nevertheless, a perennial complaint from Pirate editors and student leaders alike would continue to be “lack of school spirit.”

Seven new faculty join the ranks: Tom Matts in Music, Mary Gotsill in the Library, Roger Blind in Phys. Ed., Maryann Armenti in Foreign Language, Bob Cvornyek in English, Bill Casey and Terry O’Donnell in Religion; two former members returned: Fr. Herbert Clancy, for a brief stay in History and Fr. Wortmann, back from his study in Germany.

Only one of the new seven, Bill Casey, would remain longterm, eventually replacing Harry Dawson after his retirement as Chair of the English Department, a position he continued to hold as this volume went to press.

This year saw the second major schedule revision in three years, as the short periods were made longer, the long periods shorter; homerooms were returned to mornings.

It was becoming obvious that expansion of Prep facilities in some way was an immediate priority. The Hillier Group of architects was retained to begin the conceptual phase of such expansion, and plans were seriously discussed for a huge structure proximate to Duffy Hall that would enable The Prep to eliminate its usage of both Mooney Hall and Walsh Auditorium. Costs of such an addition would turn out to be prohibitive however, and were eventually abandoned.

A huge number of activities were added or expanded this year: the Paddleball Club, Asian Club, Scale Model Club, Performing Arts Club, Future Physicians Club, Aeronautics Club and Film Club joined the roster, which now numbered over 30 active groups. The Third World Organization alone now had 75 members! Robert Wussler ’53 received the Msgr. Thomas G. Fahy Award at the Communion Breakfast. Tim McManus replaced Fred Pierro as Athletic Director. The Headmaster formed The Seton Hall

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Prep Council, with representatives from each school constituency. They would soon argue for an aggressive recruiting/marketing campaign for the school, a first, with Pete Butler and Rich Morris as key personnel. As a further innovation, the chairmanship of this group would be held on a rotating basis. ¶ A new Bubble replaced the old, which had collapsed twice—once due to a storm and once due to a pump failure. ¶ The Drum and Bugle Corps dissolved, and i n st r u ment a l i st s were shifted to the Orchestra, which would later be converted into the Band, and which would grow over time, until it became, year after year, the largest activity at the school.

This was the first year of “Cabaret,” organized by Fr. Kulig, where faculty, parents and friends of The Prep got together to perform musical revues during an evening of dining and dancing, raising needed dollars for the school and exposing hidden talents to the community. ¶ On December 13th, student Wesley Little lost his fight with Lupus, and Fr. Bradley, who had been with him so often during his illness, led the Mass in his memory. Later in the year, the entire Community was shocked by news of the death of recent alumnus Mike Harrington ’71.

This was the year when Dr. Robert Conley became the first layman to be appointed President of Seton Hall University; his inauguration and subsequent gala will be long remembered by all on Campus at the time. In a candid interview in The Pirate, he announced a sharp increase in parking fees Campus-wide, that The Prep would remain an all boys school (“leave well enough alone”) and put the brakes on wild building speculation when he reminded all that proposals for any new building would need to be a part of a soon-to-be-published University Master Plan and would have to be fully funded

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before going forward. He would also be The Prep’s Graduation Speaker this June.

Creatively, this was another banner year for the school. The fall Drama, Twelve Angry Men and the spring drama, another war horse, Inherit the Wind, were both huge successes.

The Prep faculty sponsored their own “baby boom” in the seventies, and gathered annually for a Family Christmas Party thrown by the Headmaster in the Library. • Casting aside the often ribald persona he adopted with his senior Theology students, Fr. John Vacarro played Santa to the delight of the faculty kids.

The Spring Musical was The Music Man. ¶ Fred Jones, an oboist, received many accolades and brought the school credit when he was chosen for the N.J. Orchestra and was seen and heard in concerts and on T.V. ¶ Two student-produced satirical fi lms made their appearances this year,

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with “One Day in the Life of a Preppie: or Hard Times,” making a tremendous impression.

Fr. Herbert Clancy, in a candid interview with the school paper, spoke of his love for the missions, and by the end of the first quarter had moved on to Monmouth College for a short time before returning to Korea. His spot in History was taken by your author, Ken Comer. ¶ Mike DelViscovo was quite the celebrity on Campus as several professional acting gigs materialized for him during this year. ¶ This was also the year of repeated flooding in Duffy Hall, a problem which would recur often until substantial repairs were made at a later date. ¶ Mathletes Eugene Reynolds in Varsity and Walter Pitio in J.V. each scored perfect papers in competition. ¶ Minimum standards for all Student Council candidates were implemented this year also.

Athletically—another exceptional year for The Prep. Baseball went 12-8. Tennis went an awesome 18-3. Basketball went 15-9 under new Head Coach Bob Farrell, who had moved up from his post as frosh mentor.

Hockey went 16-6-1, good for second place in the “A” division; they took their first Gordon Cup. Wrestling went 11-3 and took the Districts again, featuring eight District Champs. Joe Spinazzola and Mike Deehan both took Regional titles; Spinazzola took second in the States. “Spin” had brought the name of The Prep to new international heights, when in the previous summer he had taken first place in the Junior Pan American Games at Mexico City.

Cross Country went 10-0 and won the Eastern Championships. Soccer was 16-6-1 and took the Parochial A North State Title. The Football dynasty continued, led by many, many standout performances, including that of MVP Chet Parlevecchio, going 10-0-1, winning the Parochial A Title and putting up an unheard of ten

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shutouts, a state record, including one over Ber- “popularity contests,” and juniors clamoring for the State, and provided by Essex County, enabled gen Catholic in the championship game (15-0). a ring ceremony. None of these were unique to 35 students to avail themselves of testing servicSpeaking volumes about their dominance, The this year, but their convergence indicated rest- es and individualized instruction. ¶ Ms. Kathy Prep scored 290 points this season, while their lessness among many.

Detlet joined the faculty mid-year to fill the opponents scored just six!

In October, over 400 attended the Commu- void left by the early exit of Br. John. ¶ A SerIn June, the Prom featured a theme of “Won- nion Breakfast, where Pat Villanova and the vice Course joined the growing list of Religion derful Tonight,” from the Eric Clapton classic. ¶ omnipresent John Lombardo were honored by electives. ¶ Junior Chris Seebode, another Uncharacteristically, the year ended tensely, as the Fathers Club for years of countless hours of professional actor, appeared in a Campbell’s three seniors were dismissed from school and service. Both made it clear that they were not Soup television spot. ¶ The student body of there was rampant class cutting. ¶ Larry Swee- retiring. ¶ The Knights of Setonia, reinstitut- Marylawn joined The Prep for its Easter Liturgy, ney, President of the Fathers Club, reinstituted ed this year by Fr. Hanbury, began rebuilding where, in a unique occurrence, Bishop Doughthe Athletic and Activities Awards Dinner, which with 35 students, initially dovetailing with the erty confirmed freshman Christopher Joseph. ¶ also honored the contributions of Rich Morris monthly First Friday Mass. ¶ At a chess dem- In an article about preparation for college, the and Sr. Regina. ¶ The Tower was dedicated onstration by master Scott Mess, he took 17 of Star-Ledger and other papers featured the fact this year to Dick Binkowski, who had quickly 19 boards in simultaneous play, but failed to that Prep students performed best in the state established himself as one of the most erudite beat alumnus Ken Ganning and freshman My- on the recently administered Basic Skill Tests. and committed members of the faculty. A Gala ron Petruch. ¶ Freshman Jack DeOlivera, who ¶ Fr. Bradley’s phone chain system was hailed Dinner Dance at Thomm’s Restaurante in New- was blind, began a four-year career that would by all as a great innovation. ¶ Changes in the ark honored Fr. Giblin on his tenth year as lead to a bushel full of firsts for him. ¶ Mr. Puc- Quality Point grading system and additional InHeadmaster. ¶ 244 seniors received diplomas ciarelli stepped in to help stabilize a Forensics dependent Study Courses also were tried during at Commencement.

Program which had descended into disarray. this year.

He had to parry arguments as illogical as the Sadness returned this year when Archbishone that the activity’s office (on the fourth floor op Boland died. He had always had a special of Mooney Hall) had become nothing more place in his heart for The Prep, and had been The year introduced a tradition which continues than a repository for trophies! (Since when known often to refer to the school as “the apple to the present, with the first Alumni Homecom- had winning trophies become a detriment? of my eye.” He was remembered at a Memorial ing Football Game. Ten new faculty members Each of those awards represented an outstand- Mass on March 27th. ¶ More tragic, because joined the staff including the infamously mys- ing achievement by a student representing the it happened so unexpectedly, was the death in terious Brother John, who, happily, remained entire school.) Larry Hamden, Mike Uhde and a nighttime road accident of Thomas Reynolds for only a short time. The others were: William Colin Kay rose above the fray and won spots ’48, father of three Prep graduates. His tireless Miron, Joe Zarra, Jeanne Serrani, Vince Campi at the Nationals in Milwaukee. ¶ The Moth- efforts as the first two-term President of the Fa’72, Bob Denman ’72, Keith Cralle ’74, Randy ers Club this year was headed by great leaders thers Club in areas financial, organizational and Schweitzer, Fr. John Johnston and Fr. Bill Mel- in Vivian D’Urso and Rosemary Deehan. ¶ A personal would soon be memorialized in sevillo. Several of these teachers would remain for controversy developed during the year about eral ways by those whom he had most affected. a handful of years, but Fr. Bill and Randy Sch- poor attendance at pep rallies, evening events In the realm of performance, another banweitzer are still with us as the school celebrates and the even more appalling attendance at the ner year was achieved. The faculty, directed by 150 years.

Thanksgiving Mass and Assembly.

Harry Dawson, revealed hidden talents with a The entire Community anticipated the return There were lots of positives this year as well. performance of Arsenic and Old Lace featuring to her duties of the Headmaster’s Secretary Mrs. ¶ Elective Gym debuted, with multiple sports Tom Cregan, Sue Cregan, Dick Binkowski, Bill Theresa Ciccone, who had been injured in an choices for upperclassmen. ¶ The school Coburn, Don Dorflinger, and unbelievably brave auto accident. Joe Walsh’s responsibilities ex- “banked” 67 pints of blood with the North Jer- performances by Tony Pucciarelli and Walt Mcpanded, as he was made the first Director of sey Blood Center, as seniors and faculty alike Mahon (appearing in drag as the elderly sisters). both Activities and Alumni. Still another attempt donated for the needs of all members of the In the spring, Harry Dawson, who had recently to jumpstart this latter department was made Community. ¶ Senior Todd Galante called for mounted an incredible Othello featuring Africanwith the publication of an Alumni Newsletter. a Mass for all deceased members of The Prep American student Barry Lofton as the Moor, once There seemed to be an inordinate number of Family. ¶ The Faculty Senate, led by Don Dor- again seized opportunity and cast Jack DeOlivera complaints voiced in The Pirate by students this flinger, wrote a new constitution. ¶ The Student as the blind prophet Tiresias in a performance of year, among them: overcrowded coffeehouses, Council featured trips to Yankee Stadium and Oedipus the King. Mike Calabrese, Peter DeChefights at coffeehouses, lack of student involve- Great Adventure and included students from a ser, Peter Burgi, Mike Menza and Gene Cote led a ment, parking problems, cafeteria prices and re-born and re-constituted St. Benedict’s Prep stellar performance. The Musical The King and food quality, lack of a typing course, schedules in the trip to Madison Square Garden for a I was no less memorable, with William O’Brien forcing unwanted electives, tuition (now $1300), Knicks game. and Patricia Culver as the leading lovers. the abolition of A.S.T.A., retreats not being spiriThe appearance of the Compensatory EducaAthletically, there were several non-traditual enough, Student Council elections being tion bus, parked in the quadrangle, paid for by tional accomplishments which bear mention.

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The Cheerleading Squad expanded and was fi lled with names with a familiar ring. Liz Gallo, Cathy Campi, Jeanine DeCheser, Rosemarie Deehan and Cathy Shepherd led a squad of 17 for Football and 13 for Wrestling. Frosh Coach Tom Cregan experienced the necessity of early morning freshman Basketball practices to get time on the Walsh Gym floor. Mark Stone was ranked #1 nationally in under-18 platform tennis!

In team events: Baseball went 1011-1; Soccer went 8-8-4; Basketball was 5-16. Wrestling posted a 14-2 record, taking the Districts with four champs. Joe Spinazzola and Dave Rothman took regional titles, and Joe became The Prep’s fi fth State Champ. Hockey went 21-8-1, becoming North Jersey Interscholastic Hockey League Champs but losing a heartbreaker 2-1 to Brick in the Gordon Cup final. The Football Team concluded a third year in a row which defied most superlatives. They were State Champs. They went 11-0, leading to 38 straight games without a loss. They scored 236 points to their opponents 30. Tony Verducci got his 150th win. John Merklinger set more offensive records than many knew existed.

At the newly restored Activities and Athletics Dinner, Joe Spinazzola and Mike Gallo shared the Msgr.

William J. Daly Award as Athletes of the Year; Bill O’Brien and Larry Hamden shared shared honors as Most Outstanding Participants in the Activities Program, receiving what would eventually be called the Bayley Seton Award; Coach John Warchol received the Msgr. Tuohy Award, given to the Outstanding Coach, and Fr. Foran received the Moderator of the Year Award. Down the road this award would be named for Sal Caprio.

The Tower was dedicated to Harry Dawson.

Dr. Deborah Partridge Wolfe, a member of the University Board of Trustees, gave a memorable Commencement Address, perhaps the liveliest ever, to the largest graduating class in the school’s history, 271.

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Maritza LaBella in Italian, Bob Conway in Math, and University graduate assistants Riad AbuThe school year would feature a number Gosh in History and Peter Sozio in Phys. Ed. Pete of significant finales. Though it started off Butler and Don Dorfl inger became Co-Deans of quietly enough, featuring such milestones as Men, and were joined in the office by eventual Sister Regina’s Golden Jubilee as a member longtime secretary, Doris Daly. of the Sisters of Charity, and her 47th year in The freshman class was huge, with 350 stuthe classroom, the year would also feature an dents from 48 towns entering that September; undercurrent of unsettling developments which it would produce the second largest graduating few saw coming. class ever four years later. A profi le of this group showed a subtle shift westward toward Morris County, yet revealed that the largest number still came from South Orange, Newark, Irvington and the Oranges.

71% came from parochial schools, and 29% came from public or private elementary schools. 12% were non-Catholic. The student body included students born in Italy, France and Turkey.

The new grade point system, designed for more accuracy, still managed to produce a tie for top student honors between Dennis Newman and Colin Kay at a spectacular 4.106. ¶ Religion electives were back to a series of one-quarter-each courses, augmented now with the Service Elective. ¶ Mrs. Rita Itri joined husband Aldo in the Bookstore two days a week, and the expansion of this facility under their guidance was transforming, adding a significant boost to both school spirit and public awareness of the school, as the school logo started to appear everywhere. The Bookstore under their direction would develop into both a profit center for the school and a shopping stop for parents and alumni alike.

Spirit in the school seemed to be making a comeback as well. The Father Laurence Murphy ’35, Annapolis Knights of Setonia, re-organized last graduate, Marykoll missionary and academic, year, was forced to move to Room 50 because became the 16th president of Seton Hall Univer- the crowd at Masses was too big for the Mooney sity. Msgr. Joseph Tuite ’33 returned from his Hall Chapel. More than 500 attended the Fathers Diocesan and parish duties to assist in Guid- Club Family Picnic, with one of the highlights ance. Dick Scaine would also return, first to the being a faculty vs. Fathers Club softball game.

Religion and later to the Science faculties. ¶ A newly instituted Art Auction was very sucDuring the year five others would join or as- cessful, as was the new “Our Favorite Recipes” sist the faculty: Larry Chamales in English, Ms. cookbook of the Mothers Club. ¶ At the Com-

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munion Breakfast, the Msgr. Fahy Award was presented to Judge Joseph F. Walsh ’38. Awards were also made to Fathers Club stalwarts Larry Sweeney and Tom Campagna. A special award was presented to the entire Reynolds family in memory of the late head of their family, Tom. John Lombardo and Pat O’Callaghan assisted with another successful Cabaret, and the funds raised by the Dinner Dance continue to grow, providing much needed capital for the entire activities program. The Fathers Club Sports Journal brought in over $26,000 this year.

Joe Walsh and 14 Prep students were joined by a group from Marylawn as they hopped a train to Madison Square Garden, to join 19,000 others to see and hear Pope John Paul II. ¶ For the third year in a row, a Prep student put his acting abilities on display, as James McKnight was featured on Unicorn Tales. ¶ Cablevision (TV3) sponsored the High School Academic Bowl, which would soon be known simply as Challenge.

Harry Dawson and Dick Binkowski coached this endeavor, with early assistance from Andy Mitzak, Bob Fischer and Joe Zarra. In their first match, they took cross-town rival Columbia, 305-255.

In an interview in The Pirate, new SHU President Fr. Murphy showed a dry sense of humor with quotes such as, “Isn’t The Prep co-ed yet?” and “The only way to get a parking space on Campus is to buy a parked car.” On a more serious note, he acknowledged existing problems, shared Village concerns about The Bubble, revealed that The University was rapidly outgrowing its Library and disclosed the formulation of plans for a Field House. (It would take until almost 15 years after The Prep had moved off Campus for the latter two items to come to fruition). The issue of Prep expansion and building was not clarified. We again made our presence felt, however, when a Campuswide Mass was held for the American Embassy hostages in Iran, and Prep students comprised about 80% of those present. Little did any then realize that this Iranian crisis would lead to the reinstatement of the Selective Service Registration System, though not the full-blown draft.

Marylawn students were regularly joining us at Masses, participating with us in fundraisers and in general solidifying ties. ¶ In February, it was announced by the Archdiocese that Essex Catholic would be moving from Broad Street, Newark, to the site of East Orange Catholic High School and that the latter in turn would combine with and relocate to Archbishop Walsh

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High School in Irvington. This would eventually clearly derived from a source who had revealed lead to the slow decline and eventual closing of information from a priests’ meeting of March 24th, which had been assumed to have had, in all three institutions.

Artistically, this was another banner year. As the Headmaster’s words, “implied confidentialMr. Dawson had shifted his attention to the Quiz ity.” At an April 18th assembly, Fr. Giblin refuted Bowl competitions, Ms. Kathy Detlet and a se- the assumptions on which the article was based, ries of student assistant-directors who assisted and called for support of University President Fr. her, mounted a production of Neil Simon’s, The Murphy and whatever decisions he made. He reOdd Couple, featuring, among others, the Felix ceived a standing ovation at that point.

The atmosphere from there until the end of of sophomore Mark DeLemos and the Oscar of senior Chris Carter. ¶ Chorus, now offered as the academic year went downhill rapidly, multian academic course, had in four years grown ple factions emerging within each of the various from a mere four students to more than forty. ¶ constituencies on the Campus. The entire instiThe Musical this year was My Fair Lady, which tution was under strain at the time, financial featured an orchestra led by the Music Depart- and attitudinal, and, in an administrative move ment’s Tom Matts and Joe Neglia, and which by Fr. Murphy missed by many at this point, the included 18 students, who mingled with the pro- dictum was handed down to all department fessionals and held their own beautifully. ¶ In heads and senior administrators Campus-wide a spirit of collegiality, senior Dominic Smorra to submit their resignations. A short time later, presented some well-thought out suggestions to several were accepted by the President, among them that of Fr. Giblin. The timing was very disthe Deans of Men, and they were all adopted.

Athletically, this was a season of mixed ruptive to the year’s Commencement, and his results, though it might be fair to say that the final interview with The Pirate included both his attention generated by three-sport star John desire to return to the classroom and his hope Merklinger and the number of records which that a successor would quickly be named for the he set in Football, and a titanic homerun he good of the whole institution.

Two quotes from the interview took their hit to straigtaway center onto the roof of New Providence High School (still hard to believe) place in Prep lore. The first, appropriately enigtended to obscure a good deal else. Basketball matic and vintage Fr. Giblin, became the banner struggled at 4-16. Soccer was 9-9-0. Hockey in The Pirate and was misunderstood by many: went 12-9-1 and Football 7-3. Wrestling was 10- “I am glad that it is finally over. I have hated every 9, taking the Districts for the 13th straight year day of the last twelve years—I am not designed and producing six District Champs. Mike Dee- personally to be an administrative figure.” In han took his second Regional crown. Baseball the other, the outgoing headmaster reverted to was again a powerhouse, as they went 21-5-1, his more typical tone of reassurance: “The Prep ranking 6th in the County and 19th in the State. will most certainly carry on in her tradition of Swimming took the first of four Essex County excellence because, in any academic institution, Championships in a row. Indoor Track took the it is the faculty who are of the essence and not NJSIAA Parochial A State Championship, behind the administration. You students are exceptionally fortunate to have here one of the finest and Ric Green and Paul Chludzinski.

This was one of the strongest academic most caring groups of teachers ever assembled classes in the school’s history as well. From anywhere.”

An era had come to an end. The Prep, which among the 238 graduates, no fewer than seven would attend Ivy League schools. ¶ The Tower a year later would celebrate 125 years of existence, had been rocked to its very foundation. was dedicated to Fr. Martin J. Foran.

Closing not only this chapter in the book, but The school had survived turbulent national and also a chapter in the history of the school was international times and now had to deal with the bombshell that was delivered to the entire some of its own. The stage had been set for the Campus Community beginning in the spring of next quarter century, an era which would wear the year. A Newark Star-Ledger article in April the indelible imprint of one man more than any cast doubt on the financial viability of The Prep, other in its previous existence. The Prep’s fifth and alleged a rising deficit and deteriorating Headmaster would be none other than Seton support on Campus for Headmaster Fr. Giblin. Hall’s own once-upon-a-time diminutive quarA good deal of the material in the article was terback, Fr. Mike Kelly.

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The first Prep alumnus-Headmaster, Rev. Michael E. Kelly is acutely aware of the school’s rich history. He ensured that Prep traditions were carried forward when the institution made its monumental move just five years after he took office.

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For she will foster all your dreams ...

Chapter Seven 1981 THROUGH 1985

¶ The Prep Celebrates 125 Years ¶ The Kelly Years Begin ¶ Squeezed by University Expansion ¶ Last Call on The Campus ¶ Our Own Board Paves the Way for a Successful Separation

CADEMIC 1980-1981 BROUGHT WITH IT BOTH AN AIR OF CHANGE AND A SENSE OF NEW BEGINNINGS— THIS WAS AFTER ALL THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SCHOOL. One of the greatest surprises to many was how little The Prep administration changed after the resignation of Fr. Giblin. Fr. Mike Kelly was a figure well known to the vast majority of the faculty, most having worked with him before he was appointed Headmaster. The thing that many failed to remember was that, having been away for five years, he was known to the student body only as a name, remembered fondly by older brothers and friends, but unknown in the students’ scope of memory and experience, which at best, spanned only four years.

Fr. Kelly was not the only one who returned to The Prep in 1980, as he was joined by Msgr.

Joseph P. Tuite, now 40 years a priest, whose temporary assistance of the year before was codified in a Guidance position. Early in the academic year, the chain of events beginning the previous year played itself out almost surreally,

The new Headmaster made sure that late-century graduates were aware of the contributions of the early “giants” of Prep history— Vincent McIntee, English teacher in six decades, presents the award bestowed in his name at graduation.

as Fr. Murphy himself resigned as University President for reasons of ill health.

The transition was surprisingly smooth however, and the major change as noted by many students of the time seemed to be the presence of the new Headmaster everywhere

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throughout the school. He was observed shaking hands, trying to learn over a thousand names, and taking part in every activity on Campus. Athletes and those involved in activities ran into him day and night, seven days a week. Additionally, students and staff from the time comment often on his uncanny ability to be a comforting presence at countless family wakes, funerals, anniversaries, weddings, baptisms and the like. He was clearly laying the foundation, one person at a time, for the expansion of the concept of “Prep Family” to an ever-growing group, and most importantly, for the strengthening of those family ties despite the intervention of either years or miles. The exponential growth of the Alumni Association and its inclusion on a regular basis as a group that could depend on strong bonds to The Prep and which would in turn be depended upon

by The Prep, started the very day Fr. Kelly unpacked his boxes and arranged his desk. In a prophetic first interview in The Pirate, Fr. Kelly revealed both his depth of attachment to the school and his basic philosophy, when he said “I made great friendships [at The Prep], and by all means these gentlemen are my closest friends today. When I need help, I turn to them, 83

and they turn to me for the same support.” items and projects and were helping to keep the 335 freshmen began classes in September, tuition increases manageable. ¶ Sr. Appollonia exceeding by five the largest incoming class thus celebrated 50 years as a teacher and Sal Caprio, far. Only three new faculty members, Marty Ber- who turned 75, had spent 52 years (though not man in History, Edward Blankmeyer in Phys. Ed., all at SHP) in the classroom. ¶ A survey of and Anthony Lupica in Italian, were added this our student population that year showed that we year. For the students it was a year of only minor were really quite a diverse group, with thirtycontroversy. The senior “smoking lounge” was eight foreign born students— sixteen originally moved to a paved area immediately under the from Italy, four from Colombia, three each from Dean of Men’s Office, and despite repeated as- Ecuador and Portugal, two from Canada, and surances that the motivation was, in fact, one of one each from England, Poland, Greece, Gersafety, especially as it related to the infamous many, Brazil, Guyana, Taiwan, the Philippines, back steps of Duffy Hall, many seniors claimed Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago. “conspiracy.” Add to this the ban on driving offThe most lasting event of the year included Campus for lunch, the senior scramble caused the coming into reality of the Thomas A. Reynby the elimination of several electives at the end olds Reynolds Fund. It had been the dream of of the summer, the end to senior moustaches the late President of the Fathers Club, from the and the flaps over a senior gift and a lack of field earliest days of his work with The Prep, that no trips for all but a select number of classes, and student should have to leave the school due to you had an undercurrent, albeit not a serious the death of the bread-winner in the family. In one, of student disgruntlement. To counter the fact, Tom, not even telling his wife, had secretly impression that these issues might magnify, the paid the tuition of a student whose father died seniors raised over $1600 with a candle sale to during the school. Following Tom’s own untimedefray the cost of the senior gift. ly death in 1979, his friends and colleagues set Academically, this was the year in which still up the Fund to ensure that his dream became a another Tuesday/Thursday schedule was imple- reality. That year the first two anonymous grants mented, allowing for more activity periods, and ensured that a pair of students could remain at in which computerized report cards were intro- The Prep.(By the Sesquicentennial, the Fund duced. had disbursed well over a half-million dollars Creatively, The Spectrum was back from a and enabled dozens of students to continue their three-year hiatus, with Sr. June Cornell and Larry careers at The Prep.)

Chamales (who had instituted a senior Creative Some of the other memorable events of this Writing elective), leading the way, assisted by year included the Italian Club Dinner at Villa a dedicated group of writers. ¶ Marylawn Pensa, attended by numerous faculty and over mounted The Boyfriend this year, directed by 50 students, the Model Congress led by Greg Fr. Kulig, with all the male parts played by Prep McManus and the exhibition by a chess grandstudents. ¶ The Drama Society, led by Kathy master in which he defeated all comers, except Detlet and her student assistant director Andre Mr. Coburn. ¶ December 19th was named John Lima, mounted The Caine Mutiny Court Mar- McManus Day in Newark, after his foiling of a tial, featuring seniors Patrick Sweeney, John purse snatching and subsequent chase of the Maher and Geoff Ullman. ¶ The Spring Musi- perpetrator garnered statewide media attencal was Oklahoma, with Craig Hoffmeyer, Greg tion. ¶ There was also the infamous flap over McManus and John Maher leading a cast which the award winning photograph by Mr. Morris, included stalwarts Jennie Havas and Jacqueline a moody pre-game shot of the football team in York City this year. ¶ The Quiz Bowl Team DeCheser. ¶ The Drama Society scored in the the locker room psyching for a contest, which took on TV-3’s “Challenge” and performed well. spring with scenes from The Elephant Man and appeared without the intended accompanying ¶ The Knights of Setonia was now drawing 80 The Exhibition and with a Death of a Salesman text in The Advocate’s special Catholic School to 90 students each month. Mr. Angelo Bianchi led by student director Patrick Sweeney. issue. ¶ Two students, Philip Sullivan from The ’50 received the Msgr. Fahy Award at the ComThe school as a whole had become, by now, a Prep and a University student were hit by cars munion Breakfast. more than two-million dollar-a-year operation, in one week, while attempting to cross between Athletically, this was a year of mostly betwith almost 81% of the budget going to salaries Mooney and Duffy Halls. What had always been ter than average teams. Football went 8-2-1. and benefits. The monies provided by the fun- a challenge was becoming downright danger- Soccer, although going 4-9-3 behind captain draisers of the Mothers Auxiliary and Fathers ous. ¶ Five students went to Forensics Nationals, John Mac-Arthur, featured the arrival of Marty Club were spent on specific student-related which were, unfortunately for them, held in New Berman as Pete Butler’s assistant, his first in

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With the usual site of the opening Mass of the Holy Spirit, Walsh Gym, passed over in favor of a change of pace, The Prep took to the “astro-dirt” of Setonia Field for the year’s start-up assembly in 1982. With Mooney Hall watching over the celebration and 800 students and faculty in the bleachers, Fr. Kelly raises the Host at the Consecration—assisted by Fr. Ray Pavlick, Fr. Stephen Kilcarr, Fr. Kevin Hanbury, and Fr. William Melillo.

seven years as Head Coach. Baseball went a solid 14-10; Basketball, a strong 15-9. Hockey had a respectable 13-7-2 record. Wrestling, under new head coach Tim McManus, had nine District Champs, took the District Title (its 14th in a row), and saw Pete Monteverdi take the Regions at 148 pounds. Swimming took the Essex County Championships for the second year in a row.

The Tower’s theme this year was “Not the Victory ... But the Struggle,” which fit a senior class which had been through as much as this

one had. ¶ The yearbook was dedicated to Mr. Neglia, Setonia’s own “Music Man.” ¶ 256 graduates received diplomas, the third largest class in the history of the school.

1 9 8 1- 1 9 8 2

The year was marked by the arrival of a new University President, Edward D’Alessio, whose appointment stirred a Campus-wide controversy.

The choice of Fr. Murphy, who had resigned

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almost 10 months before, had been the result of the work of a search committee some years before. Of the candidates who had emerged from that search, one had withdrawn and four had been rejected. Now, Dr. D’Alessio, who had graduated from The University in 1954 and had served as both a faculty member and Dean of the School of Education previously, had simply been appointed. This was significant to The Prep only in as much as it showed the general mood on Campus, that politics at The Univer-

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sity was developing its own tone and The Prep was provided very little input into a system which ultimately controlled the school’s fate. The shift may have been subtle, but the fact that it existed, combined with ever-worsening crowding all over the Campus, was quietly setting the stage which in a few years would cause a parting of the ways between The University and Prep.

A good deal of work, begun during the summer, remained unfinished when students and faculty returned in September. This would be a year of noise and commotion, as re-pointing and repairs, most notably the addition of huge fourlevel fire escapes behind Mooney

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Hall, necessitated water saws, scaffolding and welding that formed a droning background against which classes must be taught. Further displacement occured when the barely nineyear-old “New Duffy” was dicovered to be structurally unsound, and temporary classOnly one of the many high-powered academic teams put together by Harry Dawson and Dick Binkowski, the 1984-85 squad of Ray Chen, Nick D’Andrea, Pete Farrell and Sean Mullin set a standard to be emulated by teams down the road. Msgr. Kelly and TV host Paul Spyhala show off the hardware.

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rooms had to be constructed in the cafeteria.

Physics, which had enjoyed a luxurious venue in the now-closed New Duffy, returned to, you guessed it, the fourth floor of Mooney Hall. The combined cost of the projects exceeded a halfmillion dollars and was resented by some at The University as a cost they should not have to bear. The entire affair necessitated both students and faculty eating at the Student Center cafeteria, which, though enjoyable for Prep students, was not well tolerated by many in the University Community.

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Bob Barsky and Fred Nichols head off to their big day in June of 1982. Walsh Gym served for many years as the venue for Commencement.

The Campus itself took center stage again when it was announced that the Seminary, which had been a part of the Campus from its inception until its move to Darlington in 1927, would return for 1984. Though rumors were rampant that its arrival would displace The Prep, they were quickly

quashed with news that an entirely new facility would be built on the ball field side of the Campus.

New staff this year included Joe Mee in Math, Vera Cinquino in Spanish and a (very) brief appearance by Nick Metrokostas in Math.

Internally, Bill Casey moved from Religion to a spot in the Library; 1960 alumnus Joe Delaney

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became Alumni Director and Marty Berman assisted in the Public Relations Office.

The success of Jack DeOlivera, whose blindness seemed no impediment to a successful Prep story, was acknowledged with a full-page in that year’s Tower. ¶ A standard of the freshman curriculum, Inherit the Wind, came to the stage this fall, with Kathy Detlet being joined by student director Marc deLemos in a production featuring the Drummond of John McGovern and the Brady of Mike Cocco. The latter would also play the leading role in the revival of the Booster Club, an activity which had flourished or withered yearly based almost solely on the personality of its leader. With Cocco at the helm, it flourished. ¶ The Spring Musical was Fiddler on the Roof, led by the Tevye of Tom Pitt, supported ably by Jeff Farah, David Lehfeld and Vito Pinto and hundreds of others, many of whom also appeared in Marylawn’s South Pacific.

Celebrations this year included that of Joe Hoffman’s many years as Tower Moderator, commemorated in the year’s edition, as well as Fr. Hanbury’s tenth, Fr. Foran’s twentieth and Fr. Kilcarr’s twenty-fi fth anniversaries of Ordination.

Aldo Itri was honored with the dedication of The Tower, the theme of which was “The Whole Man.” Both The Tower and The Pirate benefited all year from the incredibly original caricatures of John DaSilva and Bill Otterbein.

Mr. Wilhelm assisted seniors Tony Slonim and Fred Nichols and junior Joe Begonis, EMT’s all, in the formation of a school-wide First Aid Squad. ¶ Forty students convinced Fr. Giblin, now back in the classroom, to moderate the Irish Club, which at its apex a few years later would include over 125 members, and turn Room 23 into their headquarters. ¶ Technology, previously limited to the successful assembly of some Heathkit computers, took a huge leap forward as some Apple II’s were purchased and as we linked by telephone to the University’s Burroughs 6800 main frame.

The Band completed its transition from Pep to Concert Band under the watchful eye of Mr. Matts, gave its first concert at the Student Center, where they were joined by the Chorus and by a brass ensemble to perform Christmas carols in traditional style, and surprised many with its huge contingent of 50 members (roughly, it develops, equivalent to that of the 2006 saxophone section alone.)

The Quiz Bowl Team featuring Mike Hop-

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kins, John Saccoman, Jeff Simmons and Myron on defense: if they score come back in a zone, remembered the day after his death when the Petruch got to the semi-finals, and all forty tele- if they don’t, come back in a man-to-man, or entire Campus Community gathered in Walsh vised matches of “Challenge” were hosted this vice versa. The problem for the opposition was Auditorium for Mass. School was closed on the year by alumnus and former teacher Ken Comer, in figuring out when and how often during a following Thursday, and the majority of the stuwho almost a quarter of a century later would game he flip-flopped these simple instructions. dents found their way to Immaculate Conception record the history of The Prep in this book. ¶ Add to this our playing on the over-sized Univer- Church in Montclair for his funeral. Few are or Always attempting to remain both current and sity court, which caused many teams to begin have been as fondly remembered as this man. A relevant, an elective course was added this year to execute too far out or to become winded quarter of a century later, his name is still wideunder Dr. Scaine that combined conly known, as “Finn” stories are passed science and the environment. It quickly to still another generation of young became one of the most popular elecathletes. The next time you are with tives in the school’s history. a group of men talking sports someThe Fathers Club acknowledged where in New Jersey, simply mention the 40 years of coaching (many at The his name—and watch what happens.

Prep) of longtime Verducci sidekick Athletically, this was an exceptionPete Calcagno, and honored him at ally strong year. Swimming was 8-2 in their Italian Dinner. ¶ This was also dual meets. Hockey went 16-11-2 and the year when the club instituted the took the Mennen Invitational Trophy. famous Gold Bar Raffle, which became In Al Calcagno’s first year as Wrestling a staple fund raiser for so many years Coach, the team went 10-8, took the ($25 for a chance on a one-pound bar Districts again with five champs and of the precious metal). ¶ The Fathers boasted Pat Smith as Regional Champ Club instituted the Thomas A. Reynolds at 141 pounds. Baseball went 18-4 Award and the first recipient was Athletand was ranked 3rd in the County and ic Director Joe Walsh. ¶ Another first 17th in the State. Basketball turned this year was a Tag Day (buy a ticket in an incredible 23-6 and took the and dress like a public school kid, with Parochial A title behind Kevin Kelly’s proceeds going to charitable causes), milestone 1000th point. He joined which raised $525 for the Reynolds Keven McDonald and Mel Knight in Scholarship Fund. ¶ The Communion that very elite group. As if all this Breakfast moved to the spring this year weren’t impressive enough, Football and honored Dr. Anthony R. Caputo ’59, went 11-0, outscored their opponents a world-renowned ophthalmologist.

294 to 45 and took the Parochial A tiStudents often remember this year tle behind six All-State Parochial and as one of the few to feature monthly three All-State All-Groups picks: Standances, which, because of the Duffy ley (Tony) Woods, Pete Reavey and Tip The tragic death of Dan O’Callaghan had a great Hall re-construction, were held at the University Spina. Only Soccer struggled at 4-10-2. impact on the student body.

Student Center, and for which Jerry Salerno and 238 graduates received diplomas this year.

Vincent Re were largely responsible.

Regardless of all else, memories of this sooner, and the imposing nature of Walsh Gym year are usually focused on the sudden death itself, and you had some very subtle advantages of Coach Frank Tracey. A heart attack while that his teams could regularly exploit. And then, At the beginning of 1982-1983, there was a talking sports during the Super Bowl at Tier- add to that an incredible bunch of players who sense of absence, as three longtime contribuney’s in Montclair, as poignant as the news itself always “played smart,” and you had an unbeat- tors to The Prep story retired. Louis Sarno, who was shocking, had claimed the life of the fifth able combination of factors. The cooperation of had completed 36 years in the classroom (and basketball coach in New Jersey history to have The College/University and the close ties he had one of the triumvirate of Sarno, Ciccone, and achieved 500 or more wins. developed with many of their athletic personnel, O’Rourke who had been able to afford to stay at This one-of-a-kind basketball mentor could especially SHU Head Coach and Athletic Direc- The Prep by also teaching full-time four nights size up an opponent in about two minutes and tor Richie Reagan, were also factors in helping a week in the Newark public system for many could keep all the info he needed about a team “Finn” achieve such great success. years), retired. He is remembered fondly by on a matchbook. The simplicity of his approach His 34 years at The Prep form the stuff of generations of students whom he allowed to masked a consummate expert on the game. The which legends are made, and that legend lives “overhear” private instructions and suggestions first high school coach to employ the box and on in all who knew him and in the current gym- during tests. His seemingly brusque exterior one, he had also devised another simple plan nasium which bears his name. Finn’s life was and pretense of not knowing what some of

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Coach John Warchol, who became the standardbearer for Prep Hockey over a thirty-year career, hoists the Gordon Cup following the Pirates 1983 victory. It marked the second of nine he raised before he retired in 2006, the second-winningest hockey coach in New Jersey history.

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his students were doing, masked a deep-felt belief, expressed many times to fellow faculty members, that any help that students could get in figuring out the processes of math was a plus. To the students who never really did “get it” in Math, he was a godsend, whose kindness made it possible for more than a few students to receive diplomas and move on to successful careers both in college and beyond. Ironically, many of those same alumni are involved in occupations today that employ calculations and formulas, proving that this unique teacher knew precisely what he was doing. His is one of the first names mentioned, always with fondness, by legions of graduates from his more than three decades on the faculty.

Sam Martucci, SHP and SHU Trainer for 21 years, and Pete Calcagno, Assistant Football Coach for 28 years also retired this year. Though logically known best to athletes, especially the football players of three decades, these two had, with Coach Tony Verducci formed another legendary trio, remembered both for on-field excellence and offfield entertainment. Their combined knowledge of New Jersey athletics, their appreciation for a good meal, good conversation and a good cigar, their interaction with a legion of players, parents and scouts, and their genuine concern for young men are the subject of stories still told and re-told at Hall of Fame dinners, school banquets, picnics and homecomings.

The only addition to the faculty was Kathleen Koby, in Math.

This was the year when Seton Hall joined the Iron Hills Conference, in that group’s Iron Division. ¶ This was also the year when four retractable “side” baskets, long lobbied for by the space-strapped Prep Basketball program, were added to Walsh Gym, and when Seton Hall University joined the Big East. Despite hopes to the contrary, both the Gym and the Bubble were being used year round by both men’s and women’s teams from The University. The Prep was being squeezed more and more on practice time in virtually every sport. The University’s

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Big East affiliation had exacerbated a problem already approaching critical mass and many were beginning to talk openly of the need for either a building program for The Prep or the need to relocate.

The Mothers Club contributed the funds, for a complete renovation of the quadrangle behind Mooney Hall, with planters, benches and paving ,creating a park-like atmosphere. ¶ An anonymous donor contributed six-thousand dollars for updating of the Computer Room, used by the classes of Walt McMahon and Rich McSorley. ¶ The Family Picnic, becoming an annual tradition, was held at St. Philomena’s, Livingston. ¶ The Mothers Club was led by Claire Butler this year, and the Fathers Club, by Ed Ferrari, who would be a stalwart contributor of time and expertise for many years.

The Mothers Auxiliary gave the Quadrangle a pleasant park-like atmosphere with their addition of planters and benches there.

Two sad events tempered this year as well.

Frank Sippie, who would have been a senior, was killed in an automobile accident after the previous year’s graduation in June of 1982. He was memorialized by the entire Community at a Mass in October. Also, New Jersey State Trooper John McCarthy ’73 was struck and killed while on duty on the Garden State Parkway.

In the international category, two Palestinian brothers, Ibrahim and Houssam Abou-Naja, enrolled at the school after stints in the Brit-

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ish educational system and both Lebanese and American schools, and by way of Nigeria. Senior Shing Hua-Wu was congratulated by all on his receiving American citizenship. The Foreign Born Students’ Association sported 15 members this year.

The Student of the Month Award was reestablished this year, and Mike Keohane was given the first. ¶ The SEARCH Retreat this year, led by Fr. Hanbury, had 75 participants. Newark Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Francis was the Celebrant and Homilist at this year’s Christmas Mass. ¶ The Honor Society inducted 20. ¶ The Drama this year was Death of a Salesman, directed by Miss Detlet with the help of student director Don Carey. ¶ The Spring Musical was Brigadoon, featuring John McGovern, Kevin McGee, Joe Hall and sophomore Steven Smith. ¶ The Fourth Annual Cabaret was an Oktoberfest, and was attended by more than 600 people in two nights. ¶ The Spectrum was thriving under the guidance of Larry Chamales, Randy Schweitzer and Dick Scaine. ¶ In a testimony to both academic freedom and journalistic integrity, The Pirate published a letter challenging The Pirate to change! ¶ Rich Roitmayer, in Student Congress, and Lyndon Lessey, in Dramatic Interpretation, each qualified for Nationals in Forensics and traveled to Chicago. ¶ At the Fathers Club Communion Breakfast, Thomas R. O’Brien, Esq., appointed

by Governor Kean as Director of Gaming Enforcement, was honored as the Alumnus of the Year with the Msgr. Fahy Award.

A couple of memorable events from this year included the visit of Notre Dame Coach Gerry Faust, to recruit Tony Woods. After meeting with Tony and Coach Verducci, he was kind enough to stop for an interview with the school paper wherein he revealed that Tony was the only player he visited three times. (The Prep All-Everything defensive end later signed with

Quadrangle pep rallies, sometimes ad-hoc in nature, this one in 1984, remained a regular feature through the end of The Prep’s stay in South Orange.

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University of Pittsburgh.) ¶ Many remem- Reagan’s address at The University Commenceber this year for the blizzard of February 11th, ment. The surprise day-off as Mooney and Duffy which dumped twenty inches of snow on the Halls were locked down by the Secret Service state, paralyzed the Campus, collapsed the was a May bonus for all. ¶ 177 seniors atBubble and forced 15 students to sleep in the tended the Prom at The Manor, with bids now faculty room overnight after being stranded on at $55. Shockingly, 70 juniors had their Prom at Campus. ¶ There was also an infamous ski The Atrium in West Orange and paid $70 per bid, trip to Walkill Valley, where no less than three even after a $5 deduction for monies raised in students were injured, necessitating trips to the their candy sale. ¶ More than 700 attended the hospital. Moderator Mr. Schweitzer was heard Activities Awards Dinner, representing 26 differto say while waiting for multiple parents to ar- ent activities. ¶ The Tower, the theme of which rive, “It would have been a lot easier if I had this year was “Seek the Peak,” was dedicated to simply taken a room.”

Fr. William Melillo of the Religion Department.

An update this year from then-Director of ¶ On Saturday June 11th, 258 seniors, the secAdmissions Frank Tuohy showed approximately 1000 applications received, about 600 acceptances and a registration of 275 students.

The Student Council this year was led by Pete Pinto, Billy Capko and John McGovern.

Basketball had an excellent year, going 23-6, losing to Montclair in OT in the County Final, the eventual becoming Iron Hills Champ, but losing in the North Jersey Final. Hockey was similarly successful, taking the Gordon Cup, finishing 24-3-1 but losing to CBA in the State Final. Baseball went 21-10, took first in the County, won the conference title in the Iron Hills Division and was ranked 11th in the State. Soccer had a tough year with a 6-8-3 record. Football went a 1982- In the distance, with the Bishop Dougherty Student Center as backdrop, the quite respectable 6-3. Swimming took both the seniors prepare for graduation. The faculty Iron Hills Championship and the Essex County gathers in front of Mooney Hall.

Championship. Wrestling was 17-1, had five District Champs, three Regional Champs (Jon Daidone at 123, Pat Smith at 149 and Semos ond largest class in the history of the school, Gardner at 158), took the NJSIAA Parochial heard New Jersey Secretary of Transportation A North State Championship, and completed Hon. John P. Sheridan ’60 speak. They received an almost unbelievable 16th straight District diplomas accompanied, in a new tradition, by Championship. the 50th anniversary Class, this year featuring Names which are most recognized from this Msgr. Joseph P. Tuite. year are Pat Smith, the wrestler who took fourth in the States, Ron Karnaugh, the record-setting future Olympic swimmer, Ray Maragni, whose pole vaulting brought him national prominence, As academic 1983-1984 began, the Campus was and Stanley (Anthony/Tony) Woods, football once again in upheaval because of construction. star and future NFL standout.

Parking was so tight and the need for spaces so This year was also memorable for the bustle critical that “letters of necessity” were required never before seen around Campus, generated from parents for Prep students to bring a car as security was prepared for President Ronald to school. Immaculate Conception Seminary

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was well under construction near the ballfield, when a mishap by a construction worker hoisting a steel support beam into place set off a chain reaction collapse that was heard throughout the Campus and for a good distance beyond. Three-hundred thousand dollars of damage was done to the project, and, though covered by the contractor’s insurance, the damage to the schedule was substantial. When news was circulated of the closure of the Ward Place gate for an indeterminate period and when the plans for the University Recreation Center were circulated, there was further questioning as to the long-term viability (or advisability) of The Prep’s remaining on Campus. It was soon announced that the school was planning to relocate its Library to Rooms 50-52 of the now re-certified New Duffy Hall, turning all of Stafford Hall back to The University. Though this was a cost-saving move on the part of the school, it was perceived by many as a surrender of ground to an “ever- encroaching” University. By the time senior lockers were relocated to Mooney Hall’s basement, referred to by seniors as “the heart of darkness” or simply “the pit,” the squeeze, both real and perceived, had solidified itself as the number one topic of conversation for the entire Prep Community.

The year began with the addition of two new faculty members, Gene Langbein from the class of 1954 in Math and Mike Gallo from the class of 1979 in Phys. Ed. Deans of Men Butler and Dorflinger instituted substantive changes this year, including a new plan whereby “petty” demerits could be worked off with mandatory detentions and would not accumulate on a student’s permanent record. They also arranged for 25 students to participate with Governor Thomas Kean, Senator Bill Bradley and others in the first S.O.B.E.R. Fest at South Mountain Arena. Later in the year, a regular visitor at this time, South Orange Detective Joseph Pariso, would spend an entire week in drug education at the school.

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Lots of curricular changes were instituted this year. Freshmen replaced a semester each of Art and Music with a semester each of Science and Reading. As of 1983, all students would have to take a Fine Arts elective at some time during their four years. World History returned to a full-year course. All second-year languages became either Accelerated or Honors. Social Justice switched from being a junior course to a senior; Christian Morality switched from being a senior course to a junior and the Senior Service Project was reinstituted. Mr. Tuohy helped to organize a joint college night with Columbia High School, so that our combined drawing power could bring hundreds of college reps to our area and benefit the students of our two schools and those of dozens of nearby schools as well.

Plays this year provided some diversion. Fr. Kulig’s, No, No, Nanette! at Marylawn was once again populated entirely with Prep students in the male roles. Closer to home, a montage of monologues was presented by a displaced Drama Society, which was performing virtually anywhere some space could be found. At the end of the school year, student directors Chris Gelman and Rick Kebart organized a memorable One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest!

On the big stage, it was Oliver, with freshman Steve Curtis in the title role. He was supported

by Joe Hall as Fagan, Steve Murray as Bill Sikes, Robert Desranleau as the Artful Dodger and Christina Comelato as Nancy. This production was remembered also for the contributions of senior Bob Tudor on piano and for the sudden need for Mr. Neglia to assume the directorial hat as he filled in for Fr. Kulig, hospitalized only four weeks before the production.

Fund raising and charitable giving were high on the agenda this year as well. New Student Council members Don DiBenedetto, Ken French and Steve Antunes took a lead in this and many other areas. On September 18th, Alumni Director Joe Delaney and Assistant Director Mrs. Pat McMahon organized the first Alumni Run, which drew 155 participants to either a twoor five-mile jaunt through the streets of South Orange and Maplewood and raised money for the school’s computer center. Two blood drives were held for students and faculty to “bank” donations for use by those in need. The Thanksgiving Food Drive, organized by Gene Heuther, exceeded a ton in contributions for area soup kitchens. Though the Fourth Annual Tag Day

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had just been held for the Reynolds Fund, another was quickly organized to raise funds for the family of an Irvington High School football player, Frank Woodson, paralyzed while playing in a weekend game. A concerted effort was organized by several classmates of Kevin Torpey ’59 and the entire Prep Family to assist the latter’s family when multiple tragedies, compounded with Kevin’s illness, created a crisis situation.

In March, two-term Fathers Club President Larry Sweeney received the Thomas Reynolds Award. ¶ The Egg Drop Contest of Sr. Regina and the Engineering Club generated a

from a base of only ten participants. ¶ The Mathletes had a particularly good year, with two teams achieving national first places.

The Junior Prom was again held at The Atrium, and the Senior Prom, held by tradition at The Manor, featured the theme of “Always and Forever,” and a hard-won compromise of disco, punk, new wave and rock. ¶ A look at this year’s senior choices of college shows an interesting development. Of the 232 graduates, the greatest number, 30 students, chose to attend The University, but 29 chose Rutgers. The almost automatic progression of so many Prepsters to The University was in decline. While New Jersey continued to claim a huge number of grads (98), more and more were venturing further from home each year. Notre Dame claimed eight grads this year, Ivy League schools claimed six and two of the six nominees attend military academies. Four students went directly into the military and four sought immediate employment.

Athletically, the results this year were mixed.

Basketball (14-10), Hockey (12-9-1) and Soccer (11-6-4) all exceeded .500 seasons. Wrestling at 5-13 lost its hold on the District Title but did produce a Champ in Chris DeGrezia at 101 pounds.

Football, in what was seen as an aberration, was a dismal 1-8, a record, but which would be reversed the following season. Outdoor Track produced a Parochial A State Championship behind record setting performances from Kevin Johnson, Walt Wiggins, Reggie Smith and Jameel Spencer in the mile relay, Ted Neu in the middle distances, Joe Quartaro in the shot put, and Kevin Johnson in the triple jump. Johnson took first At the last of his close to fifty Commencement in the Eastern States. Swimming took the Iron Exercises, Vince McIntee characteristically could Hills Championship for the second year in a row. still trade barbs and puns with the best.

Baseball went a splendid 20-7, was ranked first in the County, tenth in the State and won the Iron good deal of interest, as once again, the fourth Division Title. floor of Mooney Hall proved its importance by The Tower, which had as its theme this year providing the launch pad for the egg-cradling “We are the Future... and the Future is Now,” was packages. Lee Haddad was largely responsible dedicated to John Allen, Math teacher and coach. for another new activity, The Computer Club. ¶ It recognized the 25th anniversary of the OrdiThe Concert Band, more than 50 strong, gave nation of former Headmaster Fr. Giblin, the 50th an excellent Christmas Concert at the Student wedding anniversary of Sal and Mary Caprio Center. ¶ Giuseppe Giacomazza rejoined The and the unfortunate and sad passing of Sr. June Prep after a year of schooling in Rome. ¶ The Cornell S.C., much beloved by her students. The Quiz Bowl Team featured Rich Coughlin, Rich interview that appeared throughout this ediGrady, Pete Farrell and Mark Leonard. ¶ An- tion, featuring the humor of Jack O’Rourke at other innovation saw the Mothers Club join the his 25th anniversary, and the insights of Miss Fathers Club at the Communion Breakfast, on Cinquino, Mr. Hoffman, Mr. Binkowski, Mr. its 30th anniversary. ¶ The Forensics Team, Dawson, Mr. Butler and Fr. Giblin, formed vinled by Henry Brumlik was rebuilding this year tage banter from this era. The opportunity it

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gave for students to hear these men and women in a context less formal than that of class was a synopsis of what has always been one of the intangibles that draws young men to The Prep and influences them, far beyond academics, for the rest of their lives.

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As the 1984 school year came upon us, Mooney Hall, The Prep’s main building, had just turned 75. Having replaced the building lost in the great fire of 1909, it had been school building and home to students, sometimes faculty and often priests. It had changed constantly, losing walls, partitions and doors as the needs of the institution changed. The building’s Diamond Jubilee that 1984 brought would later provide some closure and a neat framework for the coming departure of The Prep from Campus. The almost 125 years which the school would spend in total in South Orange would similarly help to frame this phase of her existence.

The year that turned out to be The Prep’s last on Campus began on sad and somber note, which continued throughout the year, despite many great successes. Word had spread rapidly that on July 26, 1984, the very popular and dynamic teacher Larry Chamales, only 38-years old, had died. The suddenness and tragic circumstances of his death sent shock waves through the entire Prep Family. On August 2nd, a Memorial Mass was held at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. By school’s start, although many students had gotten word, many more had not.

Consequently there had been no opportunity to mourn or to make some sense of his death. In recognition of this, on Friday November 11th, the entire Prep Family and a good number of University personnel as well, gathered in Walsh Auditorium for a Mass in his memory, celebrated by the entire priest faculty, with his close friend Fr. Robert Grady of the University School of Education as Principal Homilist. In a talk that all present, both students and teachers alike, seem still to recall with incredible clarity, Fr. Grady delivered a remembrance of Larry’s life and the poignant circumstances surrounding his death, an explanation of relevant Catholic theology and a heartfelt personal farewell—all in one. The introspection that this caused in each person in attendance, be they student or adult, was, in itself, perhaps the best testimonial to a teacher who had in just five years featured self-reflec-

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tion and thoughtful analysis as hallmarks of his teaching of both History and Literature, and who had influenced positively all with whom he had come in contact.

The sense of loss was unremitting between the two liturgies for Larry Chamales, because on October the 24th of this same year, word spread of the death of recent alumnus Daniel O’Callaghan ’83, well known and fondly remembered by most of the student body. He had clung valiantly to life for three days, after being struck with a club while attempting to break up a fight in Verona. Though his intercession had met with tragic consequences, it was an act consistent with his personality and consistent with the “Good Samaritan” tradition of our faith. A vital part of The Prep Community while a student and athlete, hailing from a family with a long tradition of service to the School and Community at large, Danny’s Requiem Mass was another heartbreaking but beautiful spiritual experience which remains cemented in the minds and hearts of all who were privileged enough to attend. The impact his life had had in an all too brief 19 years far exceeded that of many fortunate enough to live many, many more.

The only change in the faculty, at least for September, was the addition of Mike Metelsky, who replaced Don Dorflinger in Biology. A good deal of the summer had been spent by Gabe Pierro (father of former AD Fred Pierro, and “retired” for years from his own business) and an intrepid group of students in relocating the Library to the now re-opened first floor of New Duffy Hall.

The move saved The Prep over $50,000 a year.

[Unfortunately, the entire library would have to move yet again, less than a year later.] ¶ Pirate Editor-in-Chief Greg Castano announced what to students was no small thing: “Corduroys are legal”—thus un-doing a long-suffered cause for demerits or detention. ¶ Additionally, SHP sport shirts were introduced for senior use in the warm weather months, and Mondays were declared “sweater days” for the balance of the year. ¶ Fr. Ed Bradley became Chaplain this year, a change in title from Spiritual Director. ¶ As if the crush of unavailable facilities had not been not bad enough, the Walsh Gymnasium pool was shut down for repairs for at least six months, so the Swim Team was forced to travel to the Orange YWCA each afternoon for practice.

On the positive side, the Booster Club became a fraternity and sponsored tailgate parties, sat together in a specially reserved “pep” section

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at games and arranged for the free admission of girls from Marylawn and Mt. St. Dominic’s—all in an attempt to increase student participation and spirit. ¶ A concerted effort was made to arrange for more college representatives to visit the school and to coordinate their scheduling so that more juniors and seniors could meet with them. ¶ The Bookstore opened direct price competition with the vending machines in the cafeteria, and the stu-

Mooney Hall and New Duffy Hall, as The Prep began to take a last look around the South Orange Campus.

dents were the winners. ¶ The Theater Arts Class participated in the filming of a multi-faith sponsored nuclear disarmament commercial in Room 65. ¶ Many remember this year for the “hackey sack” explosion, as the toys proliferated rapidly and led to a lunchtime sport.

On February 6, 1985, after months of quiet, behind-the-scenes negotiations, the University purchased the now-vacant West Orange High School building for $1.6 million with the inten-

tion of moving The Prep there, and eventually agreed to invest an additional $900,000 for repairs and renovations. The purchase had been a unique opportunity picked up on by some of The Prep’s ever-vigilant and business-and-realestate-savvy guardian angels, some of whom resided on the University’s Board of Trustees.

We are still in their debt. Nevertheless, the potential pitfalls of such a purchase, which came with having so many governmental, ecclesiasti-

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cal and educational entities involved, were many.

The news was greeted with a mixture of sadness, nostalgia, trepidation, anticipation and in some quarters, glee. The formal letter announcing the worst kept secret in a long time was printed in The Pirate in May. Ken Waddell portrayed Harold Hill in The Music Man in what would become the final Musical in Walsh Auditorium. Over 200 performed in the cast as “Cecil B. DeKulig” deftly moved

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swarms of townspeople on and off stage. An 1-8 the previous year, went 8-2 and took the Iron unbridled success, the play raised a record Hills Championship. Wrestling, which, remem$12,000. ¶ In a string of final bows, the band ber had been 5-13, returned to their winning was joined by several alumni players in their ways, going 14-4 in dual meets and produced last Student Center Concert. ¶ The Drama Soci- four District Champs: Chris DeGrezia at 108, ety, peripatetic as always, was forced to perform Steve Deehan at 115, Joe Cocuzza at 141 and Jeff scenes in pairs, in the Music Room on, for the Alholm at 148 for “Coach Cal.” Soccer struggled final time (and get ready to say good-by to) the at 6-10-2. fourth floor of Mooney Hall.

Fr. Laurence Murphy, former president of the Mathletes Mark Minotti and Ray Chen sub- University, was chosen as the Commencement mitted perfect papers and were invited to the Speaker for the June 8th graduation, where 191 East Coast Regional Finals. Journalism Seminar seniors received diplomas. ¶ The Tower, with was organized for all who desired to hold fu- a theme of “The Long and Winding Road,” was ture leadership positions in school publications. dedicated to Fr. Giblin. It included a salute to ¶ In a rather touching gesture, the Senior Jack O’Rourke for his continuing service and, as Class raised over a thousand dollars to buy a a farewell, a photo retrospective of the first 128 huge banner to hang in the new school build- years of the school’s existence. ing that they would never occupy. ¶ The Quiz The Prep would now have its very own Bowl team of Ray Chen, Pete Farrell, Sean Mul- Campus. The school would continue to be lin and Nick D’Andrea won it all in Suburban tied corporately and traditionally to its parent Cablevision’s “Challenge.” ¶ The Senior Prom, corporation, yet many felt, correctly, that the attended by over 300, featured both a band and geographical separation would lead to a rather DJ for the first time. Its theme of “Don’t You Re- quick total separation. One by one the strings member,” from Superstar, was again symbolic that held the two institutions together would, of on multiple levels. Committee members Steve necessity, be cut. Financially, we were on our Deehan, Joe Cankro, Terry Lally and Ed Zazzali own to sink or swim. Few then realized that had vowed to make it the best Prom ever, and with the addition of a Board of Trustees some agreed that they in fact succeeded. of dedicated alumni and friends agreeing Athletically, this year featured both con- to work closely with Fr. Kelly in the critical tinued strong performances from traditional area of development, the school would not powerhouses and a couple of remarkable turn- simply exist—it would thrive. With The arounds from just one year before. Basketball Prep freed from the perception that many improved from good to great, going 23-2. They graduates had, that there had previously were runners-up in the ECT and Iron Hills Con- been no vehicle by which needed funds ference Champs. Hockey also went from good could be directed specifically to The Prep, to great, going 16-7-1, taking league champi- the school could set about the capital camonship and coming in second in the Gordon paigns and planned-giving opportunities Cup. Baseball stayed strong, going 19-9-1 and that would ensure its continuance. The placing sixth in the County. The remarkable early realization by many, and turnarounds came in Wrestling and Footthe continued commitment of ball. Football, bear in mind a dedicated greater family to they had been the principle that The Prep could not exist as a solely tuition-dependent school, would both provide the challenge for the future and drive the next two decades.

The coming summer would

1943- Bill Luithle’s Duffy Hall hijinks

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surely be the most dramatic, traumatic and adrenaline-fi lled in the history of the school.

The sheer amount of work completed by an army of volunteers and professionals alike, all done with the obvious and inherent deadline of September hanging precariously above every head, made for a sense of urgency and purpose which is still evident in the personalities of many who have been there for Seton Hall Prep ever since.

Many things we left behind, and many we took with us, as we made the monumental summertime move that would give us a place of our own.

1925- Larry Palkovic’s boarders’ room in Mooney Hall in the ‘20s. • above left- Early 1940s, John Macksey’s friends on the new gym steps • left1930s, a Tower’s illustration

by Don Lynch

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On the Move • Route 280

• Llewellyn Park

Northfield Avenue •

• Seton Hall Prep, since 1986

• site of Munchie’s

• Edward D. and Helen M. Kelly Athletic Complex • Charlie Lorenzo ‘52 Training Facility • Bill Persichetty H’92 Track • Rock Spring Club, 18th green • Essex County Country Club, 17th green

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South Orange Avenue (former route of trolley line, and later #31 bus route delivering students to SHP) •

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• site of the Jigger Shop • Duffy Hall • Mooney Hall • Walsh Auditorium • Setonia Field [Owen T. Carroll Field] • Ivy Hill Park

site of the Crickelwood •

• Marylawn of the Oranges

• South Orange Train Station Scotland Road, #20 Bus • • site of Grunning’s

• Irvington Avenue, #52 Bus Underhill Field (Columbia HS) •

• Cameron Field (site of, according to the legendary Tom Sheridan, a Babe Ruth homerun over the left field wall and the Erie Lackawana RR tracks in a barnstorm game)

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Sharing From Our Bountiful Harvest, Prep students enrich lives in the surrounding communities

IT WAS NOT TOO LONG AGO that, when the call went out to help those in need, students reached into their pockets for small change or for their wallets. However, attitudes have evolved in the last several years—a walk around the halls for a look at the bulletin boards or the daily announcements reinforces how quaint that old notion looks nowadays. When needs arise, it is a call to action that goes out, and here at The Prep the number of teams and organizations and their members that answer the call is a source of great pride. Listening in on conversations or observing students as they accomplish their sometimes messy, sweaty or emotionally testing tasks bolsters the understanding that students realize that their work is as meaningful for themselves as it is for those they serve.

When the school recognized a decade ago that it was important for Prep students to become more involved in 100

The Swim and Baseball teams headlined a large group that traveled to Clinton to harvest two tons of recovered apples that eventually found their way to food deprived areas of the state. Juniors Jack Devilbiss, Jaeden Yburan and Jack Amoreno added to the harvest.

Prep students served as judges at the STEM Fair at Our Lady of Sorrows in South Orange. Seniors George Haddad, Dan Sadek, Slok Jariwala and Bryan Grullon reviewed their notes on the student projects, while Shicong Pan listened to a pitch from an OLS 6th grader.

History teacher Dave Giarrusso annually leads a contingent of Wounded Warrior Project club members down the street to Hazel Ave. School to read stories commemorating Veteran’s Day. Senior Tom Testa and freshmen Anuvik Das and Anthony Cerreto had the attention of their diminutive neighbors. Chinese teacher Mike Hegedus’s RISE Against Hunger connection resulted in 10,000 food packets sent to hunger-stricken areas in the world. On Service Day seniors Victor Slezak, Ryan Corcoran and Jack Duggan joined in on the packaging, while Sean Waksmundski, Alex Kuhtik and John Jannicelli packaged the rice, soy protein, dehydrated vegetables and vitamins.

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community service, it was also critical to ensure that opportunities were readily available to engage in that service.

Director of Service Learning Vinnie McMahon is regarded as the tri-county area’s guru for the kinds of activities that can involve students in meaningful service to others. The list of activities and events he has spearheaded and students he has influenced is pages long. Annual Prep staples include the Buzz-Off for Cancer Research, work at Hillside’s Community FoodBank, blood drives, sandwich making, the Teen Hunger Summit, sports clinics and games carnivals for special needs adults and children. Others have responded to the call as well. For many years English teacher John Pascal has headed a group of more than 80 Prep students that volunteer each week as tutors for students at three local grammar schools.

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22 Jack Smith ‘22

y of Dave Br photo court es

The Prep’s longstanding work with the Red Cross of New Jersey continued, with a pair of blood drives. The health crisis scrubbed the third, but the effort and the relationship will continue. When support is impacted by vast distance, a check does, indeed, come in handy. Campus Minister Sharon Rondinella, Msgr. Harahan and Economics teacher Kevin Williams (r) were joined by juniors Nick Zanna and Marco Zando to present the proceeds from the September Tag Day to Dave Brienza (c), former soccer teammate of Williams and former VP for Finance at BristolMeyer Squibb, who now devotes himself to his brainchild, Bike Town Africa. The organization has delivered thousands of bicycles to healthcare workers and students in Rwanda and Swaziland to help them negotiate the extreme distances to their work and schools.

ienza

Garret Fritschen served as Master of Ceremonies at the Pirates Baseball Winter Carnival for physically and mentally challenged adults and children. He and his teammates and other volunteers ensured that the energy level was off the charts for guests and organizers alike. With Vin McMahon and Larry Kupferman on guitar, he fired up a rendition of a Springsteen favorite.

Vinnie McMahon kicked off the Carnival with the National Anthem, followed by an “allhands-in-‘Pirates’-on-three.”

Many of the guests at the carnival and sports clinics have been coming to the events for over a decade, developing important relationships with Prep players and coaches.

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No event gets the student body as revved up as the Annual Buzz-Off, which raises thousands for cancer research, while hundreds of onlookers risk missed lunches or late arrival at next period. Music teacher Mike Neglia ’05 and several other teachers brought in big money as students made pledges in exchange for seeing their locks shorn. In case he chickened out, Neglia was helped along by members of the Student Council, while mom, Theater Arts teacher Theresa Neglia, posted the madcap scene to social media.

Students often surrendered to the shears in support of their own or classmates’ family members. Junior Mason Russo and sophomore Sam King cheerily made the sacriďŹ ce.

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fine-tuned. The Prep’s relationship with Canterbury Village Nursing Home has expanded, with a full contingent of students now involved every week, led by Luke Gaccione, Danny Mottesi, Nick Rauschenberger, Gabe Kovach and Holden Coulter.

With socks the most requested item in homeless shelters, TJ Martynowicz coordinated a successful sock drive. English teacher Suzanne Ryan added an organization to the school’s Service Day offerings called Just Friends, in which students write letters of hope and moral support to asylum seekers currently held in New Jersey prisons awaiting court rulings. And a record number of Prep volunteers worked with HANDS of North Arlington, a volunteer-based social program that meets weekly to provide free activities for adults with special needs.

[top] For more than a decade School Counselor Chris Barnitt’s sandwichmaking crew has taken over Monday afternoons to annually turn out thousands of PB&J sandwiches for area homeless shelters. [above] Seniors Jack Gehringer and Luke Gaccione helped tabulate results from the Hunger Summit break-out sessions’ brain-storming; Indigo Cadag ’21 and Ken ’20 greeted some of the Summit’s student guests from 20 Metro-area high schools. The Hunger Summit has grown in size and importance to the extent that next year it will move to Kean University.

Just before the Covid-19 shutdown, sophomores visited the FoodBank to prepare food packages for food-insecure areas thrown into lockdown. Dale Campbell packed up crackers, backed up by Mike Davis and history teacher Joe Neglia Jr. supervising the Goldfish.

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Blue White LUCAS ROSS

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JASON PEREIRA

With a formidable lineup returning from last year led by 3 all-staters, but with several key players coming off severe injuries, Marty Berman took the leap and put the goal out to his team of completing The Treble—conference, county and state titles for 2020. By mid-November the Pirates’ hopes and dreams had come true. The team’s hard work and stylish play resulted in a spectacular 20-1-1 record; school records of 20 wins, and 20 shutouts; the Super Essex, Essex County Tournament and State Non-Public A crowns.

The program’s collection now boasts 6 Essex County Tournament, 7 Super Essex Conference, 7 Non-Public North and 3 Non-Public A State crowns. The Pirates finished as the Star-Ledger’s #2 team in New Jersey, #19 in America in the USA Today/United Soccer Coaches National Poll, #14 in the US and #3 in the East Region in TopDrawer.com’s, and #1 among the state’s Private and Parochial teams according the Soccer Coaches Association of NJ. • Jason Pereira anchored the defense, which allowed a mere 6 goals in 24 games. At year’s end he scored a place on the United Soccer Coaches of America All-American Team. Scoring punch came from Lucas Ross (24g, 4a), Aidan Dunphy (8g, 15a) and Shane Farrell (4g, 6a).

Keeper Thomas Hut posted a 0.28 goals against average. • Pereira, Ross and Dunphy earned The Star-Ledger’s All-State honors. In addition to that trio, the Soccer Coaches added Farrell and Seba Niehenke to their All-State team. The Super Essex Conference and Essex County coaches would add Chris Angermund, Nic Sprague, Alex Trestka, Sal Vito and Will Monroy to their post-season teams

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Into the Fray MATT COLANTUONO

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The Pirates took major steps last fall towards regaining a place in New Jersey’s upper echelon of gridiron programs. Their 8-2 record, which featured the longest win streak in decades, at season’s end landed them the #15 spot in The Star-Ledger poll, #17 in the NJ MaxPreps Poll and a Super Essex Conference United White Division Title. • The Hall got off the mark fast with their first opening game win since 2015, a 42-20 win against Philly’s Archbishop Carroll at Rutgers in the Rumble on the Raritan. After a wobble in a nighttime loss at Depaul a week later, the team went on a 7-game roll, which included a 38-10 road victory at Passaic Tech; a 31-12 home win over #9 East Orange; a 4342 slugfest against Montclair, where neither team could stop the other and was won on a last minute 2-point conversion; and a 16-14 squeaker over #20 Delbarton. Number 6 in the streak was a win for the ages, as the Pirates shocked the state with a stunning 28-27 win over #2 St. Joes of Montvale, the game coming down to St. Joe’s final desperation play, a dozen laterals, the clock expiring and 5 minutes of video review ending in Seton Hall’s favor. After finishing the regular season with a 28-10 win over Pope John, the Pirates fell short in the state tournament against St. Augustine.

• The offense was loads of fun to watch, highlighted by the play of QB Zander Zebrowski (144/200 for 1782 yds passing, 72%, 14 TD, 46 carries for 200 yds) and runing back Matt Colantuono (226 att/1095 yds, 4.8 avg, 14 TD, 24 rec/199 yds) Zebrowski’s targets also included Dominic Busby (36 rec/394 yds/2 TD), Nick Gullace (29 rec/643 yds/7 TD). Pairing with Colantuono in the backfield was Myles Thomason (49 att/320 yds/5 TD). • The often stingy defense featured John Nicosia and Ryan Monteleone, each with more than 100 tackles. Alex Kuterka hit 36 of 37 extra points, and 4 of 7 FGA. • Post-season honors were highlighted by the All-State AllGroups selection of 2-way lineman Lucas Giordano. He was joined on the Non-Public Team by Zebrowski, Busby, Colantuono and Thomas Grippo. The County Coaches chose the same group, adding Matt Siegel, Tyler Cook, Giye Jenkins and John Nicosia.

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Into the Fray COLIN SCHWEITZER NOLAN ORR KEVIN HARVEY

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LUKE AVIGLIANO

v Pirates Cross-Country is a team on the move, last fall turning in efforts not seen in the program since 2004.

September brought a Super Essex Conference dual meet title, with a 9-0 record. At Brookdale Park in October, the Hall came away with an SEC Championship, followed a couple weeks later with 2nd place finishes at the Shore Coaches Invitational and the Brown Invitational in Rhode Island. The Essex County title came their way, with the Pirates’ 16:19 team average perhaps the fastest ever for a Seton Hall Prep team. In November, returning to the NJISAA Prep School Championships after a hiatus of several years, Colin Schweitzer’s 2nd place finish highlighted the team’s championship win, leading a 3-in-the-top-10 finish, with Nolan Orr and Kevin Harvey in 5th and 7th places. Their 4th place in the NJSIAA Group Championship at Holmdel was the best in 16 years. • At season’s end Schweitzer landed on the 2nd Team Non-Public All-State Team, and was named to the 1st Team All-County and All-Conference squads, joined there by Harvey and Orr. The Indoor season brought The Prep a pair of championships as the team took gold in the Super Essex Conference Championship at Ocean Breeze Arena in Staten Island and at the NJISAA Prep Championships at Lawrenceville. At the Prep School meet Luke Avigliano’s 800m took gold, only a few ticks off from his season best of 1:59.43. Tim Polizzi’s throw of 49-6 brought home a gold in the shotput, as did Reece Watking’s high jump of 6-0, just shy of his seaon best of 6-2.

Those efforts were backed up by Colin Schweitzer’s season best 1600m, 4:29.88, for 2nd place, and Kevin Harvey’s 5th place 4:32.08. Other top medal performances included Avigliano’s 1st place in the Super Essex Conference Championships in late December, as well as Harvey’s 3200m win and Polizzi’s winning shotput throw in the same meet.

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Into the Fray MICHAEL PIETRUCHA

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TT OO W W EE RR Coming up short to eventual #11 Montclair in the season’s opening dual meet only served to motivate the Pirates Swim Team to a spectacular run of wins and record performances as the year progressed. The eventual tally was a 12-2 dual meet record and a record 23rd straight Essex County/ Super Essex Conference title. • The County victory was all the sweeter, coming from 19 points down to the Mounties with four events to go, and answering with three meet records to race past Montclair for the title. • Highlighting the championship were the meet record-setting swims of the 200 Free Relay (Jack Devilbiss, Dylan Negron, Matt Prior, Mike Pietrucha) 1:28.76, breaking the former record, 1:29.00, by Seton Hall Prep in 2019; the 400 Free Relay (Negron, Devilbiss, Prior, and Jaeden Yburan) 3:14.60, breaking the 2015 record of 3:16.91 set by SHP.; and Yburan’s record in the

100 Backstroke of 50.59, surpassing his own record of 51.34. Yburan also won the 100 Butterfly. His four golds earned him the meet’s Cullen Jones Most Outstanding Swimmer Award. • In the state playoffs, The Prep eased past Notre Dame 99-71, and then in the quarterfinals edged #13 St. Peter’s, with the implausible end-ofthe-meet tie broken by the implementation of a rarely invoked power-points tie-breaker. The season ended with a semi-finals loss to #4 CBA. • Honors piled up post season. The 200 Medley Relay of Yburan, Connor Townson, Joaquin Quezada and Pietrucha were 1st Team selections, as was the 200 Free Relay of Devilbiss, Negron, Prior and Pietrucha; and the 400 Free Relay of Devilbiss, Negron, Prior and Yburan.

Also gaining 1st Team honors were Connor Townson and Yburan in the 100 Breastroke and 100 Backstroke respectively. • School records also toppled. The 400 Free Relay’s Meet of Champions time of 3:11.76, turned in by Devilbiss, Prior, Pietrucha and Yburan, was a new mark, besting the 3:12:89 record set in 2015 by Justin Dunn, Colby Dixon, Jack Pietrucha and Connor Mailley. • At that same meet, Yburan broke the school record twice in the 200 IM, first in the prelims and then in the finals, with a blazing 1:53.60 for 3rd place, smashing the previous mark of 1:55.12 set way back in 1984 by future Olympian Ron Karnaugh ‘84. • Yburan has held the school record in the 100 Backstroke since his sophomore season. In the finals he lowered it again, to 50.51.

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JAEDEN YBURAN

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Into the Fray LARRY MELCHIONDA

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TT OO W W EE RR Outstanding team and individual performances helped entrench Pirates wrestling among the top level state wrestling programs. The Pirates final 17-2 dual match record, Top 15 rankings by The Star-Ledger, NJ Wrestling Writers and NJ Wrestling Coaches confirmed what SHP wrestling fans had witnessed all last winter. • Team titles included a 4th straight Super Essex crown (6th overall), a 5th straight Essex County Tournament (8th overall) and the program’s 21st NJSIAA District (16) championship. • Seven Pirates won more than 25 times: senior Mike Massa at 195 (36-7, career 116-37), junior Jack Wilt (195 lb., 32-6), senior Andrew Mitzak (220 lb., 29-9), junior Connor Decker (138 lb., 29-11), senior Larry Melchionda (126 lb., 27-11, career 117-37), junior Cole Carroll (145 lb., 27-15) and soph Joe Sciarrone (106 lb., 26-12). Sciarrone, Decker, Wilt, senior Al Hinton (182), Massa and Mitzak were District champs; Massa took the 195 lb. title in Region 4. All-SEC 1st Team honors went to Sciarrone, Melchionda, Carroll, Wilt, senior Zach Merlino (170), Massa and Mitzak. Topping things off, The Star-Ledger named the Pirates the Essex County Team of the Year, and Jack Decker ’04 Essex County Coach of the Year.

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MICHAEL MASSA

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Into the Fray MICHAEL CURRAN

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With the Pirates showing only a pair of wins after the first 7 games, many followers of Prep basketball were wondering what was going on. Then, the return from injury of an experienced missing piece helped right the ship and enable the Hall to finish out the season in fine fashion, winning 16 of the last 18 games. In the first week of January, nobody would have taken a bet on the ultimate 20-7 record or the team’s final Star-Ledger #13 ranking, along with the #9 spot among NonPublic schools, and the #2 spot in the Super Essex Conference. The key to the turnaround was the return to the lineup of senior guard Mike Curran, who would average 11.9 ppg and 5.8 rpg. His scoring was nearly matched by his junior backcourt mate Giye Jenkins, with 11.7 ppg and nearly 5 assists per game. The backcourt rotation was filled out by seniors Mason Morial (7.1 ppg), Gary Hinds (6.7) and Zander Zebrowski (7.7). Senior Mario Bollo and junior Cole McGonigal contributed from the forward position. • Big wins against top opponents included a January 31 drubbing of eventual #6 Wildwood Catholic 64-44 in the Atlantic City Battle By The Bay; a pair against Newark East Side, on the road 58-45 and at home by a whopping 77-42; and a home win against #10 Montclair Immaculate 69-64. The Pirates’ hot streak propelled them into the Essex County Tournament as the 3-seed, where they had lopsided wins against Montclair and Columbia and a 60-62 win over 15th ranked and #2 seed Irvington, before falling short in the final to Immaculate.

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GIYE JENKINS

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Into the Fray PATRICK ZINCONE

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While the record of 11-13-2 lacks a little in the way of luster, the Hockey Team’s play last winter each night left opponents with the knowledge that they had had their hands full. Record aside, the Pirates’ hard play earned the team the #8 ranking in The Star-Ledger’s poll at season’s end. Scoring was led by sophomore forward Patrick Zincone, who put 10 into the net and added 8 assists.

Another sophomore forward, Aidan D’Urso, was among the top scorers, with 8 goals and 8 assists; that scoring sheet was duplicated by senior forward Will Robinson.

Rounding out the scoring leaders with 8 goals was senior forward Alex Kuhtik. Senior defenders Tim O’Connell (6g, 10a) and Kyle Bishop (3g, 4a) held off opponents’ scorers. Sophomore goalie Jake Schunke averaged 2.96 goals against. O’Connell finished the season a 3rd Team selection on the All-Gordon Conference squad, with Bishop and Harrison Rocheville taking spots on the Honorable Mention team.

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TIM O’CONNELL

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• continued from p. 27

challenge we have been tasked with has proven to be a disheartening one. Once again, I am reminded that I would love nothing more than to be back at SHP finishing out my final month.

Matt, Apr. 1- So I don’t know why it’s taken this long, but today, a feeling of depression hit me like a truck. It started when I got a text from the varsity tennis coach, Mr. Heintz, saying that today would have been our first match of the season.

He attached the “roster,” which showed that I would have been starting at first doubles this season. To be robbed of that final experience after what has been probably ten years of work is just devastating, and today is the day it would have all begun.

As if this is not enough for one week, this would have also been the week of the musical. Again, after so much work I put in to memorize my lines and music as the lead and countless hours of practice, I just feel so empty. To top it off, we had a FaceTime call with my grandma today in the nursing home, and in the course of asking her how she was doing, her response was “this is not the life I want to lead.” My heart broke, I couldn’t even give her the little bit of joy she needed…I then proceeded to spend hours mindlessly plugging away on my Xbox as a distraction. It hasn’t been a great day.

Aidan, Apr. 3- I swear all sense of time is fading. I did not know yesterday was Thursday until night time. I have no idea how it’s already Apr. 3rd, and I don’t know how long it’s been since I haven’t been in school but this is insane. I need social contact. Everyone wears masks now and I can’t go outside. I really just want this to be over but everyone’s saying it’s still got weeks until it peaks. I’m trying to get in shape for Hopkins but I’m hitting a wall right now in terms of running and working out and I don’t know why, maybe because I don’t drink enough water. I need to fix it. I can’t disappoint the others.

I hate running. Also, I ate 24 mini-waffles yesterday before my run and barely made it home without throwing up. It was BAD. Matt, Apr. 3- So tonight we did a group Zoom with the entire cast of the musical, including the Neglia’s. It was really great to get to talk to everyone and here some wise words from Mr. Neglia (as always). However, it really sucked because it was taking place during what was supposed to be our Friday night per-

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formance. So, I guess I don’t understand what the greater plan here from God is, but I suppose that moments like that are special.

Matt, Apr. 5- I can only stagger back in horror as I look at the infection rate and death rate continue to grow and remember that there is a human life and story behind every single one of those numbers. It also really sucks that this is how we will be spending the holiest week of the year. Palm Sunday and the days that follow are such a huge part of our faith journey, and to only

good, so at least we still had something special for the day.

Aidan, Apr. 13- Well, today I woke up at 3pm and went to bed at 4am last night because of Call of Duty. And I need something more to do with my life. I realize these entries are getting shorter, but it’s because there is legitimately nothing new.

Sure, there’s a thunderstorm outside, but like that’s the most unique thing that has happened today.

Aidan, Apr. 21- Like my sense of time is gone because days blend more and

After months of thinking that it might never take place, seniors celebrated with a belated yet close-to-normal Commencement on July 7 at the Kelly Athletic Complex. Thoughts of what they had gone through and what might lie ahead were close at hand.

be able to do Mass and youth groups over live streams is really difficult.

Aidan, Apr. 12- Today is Easter but it doesn’t feel like it all. We had a cornhole tournament and my dad and I won, of course, because we’re the best and dinner was very good— steak with pasta and gravy but it just didn’t feel like normal Easter like we’re used to at Aunt Kitty’s. I really just want this to end. This isn’t how my senior year is supposed to end. I am very excited to go to college tho, but the fitness requirement is gonna kill me  Matt, Apr. 12- Happy Easter! We watched the vigil live streamed last night, which was a strange experience, but it was still kind of nice. On the upside, I’ve never been to church with my dog before!…Man, some people were getting all dressed up today for the sake of doing something, and I give them a lot of credit because there was no way I was doing that crap. I am perfectly content with living in sweats right now. On the upside, mom got a prime rib for dinner which was really

more. It’s so weird. I slept right through my Spanish and Math classes today unfortunately, but honestly I don’t really care at all. Now I’m writing a few papers for Bink and then gotta work out. I can’t really run because its raining out but maybe I’ll go anyways because I haven’t in a while. I really want this to end ’cause I want to hang out with my friends. I want to make memories.

Aidan, Apr. 27- Today is my last Monday as a Seton Hall Prep Pirate and it is so bittersweet. I wish I was able to be in class with my friends but having to stay home instead hurts. Some teachers are understanding and are congratulating us for all the hard work; others are being very annoying and assigning way too much work, which pisses me off. I saw a few guys yesterday dropping senior signs off at their homes.

I really hope this doesn’t hurt college next year because I had the first Zoom meeting with the Hopkins guys and I’m so excited to get there. I’m gonna have to be in insane shape of course and get my technical skills honed but I can’t wait to see how far we go!

Aidan, May 22- Sorry journal, I forgot about you for a little. Things have been hectic like always with graduation stuff, but today I finished my AP Spanish test which wasn’t that hard. Now I’m officially done with everything to do with high school. We’re still trying to graduate outside at the KAC but who knows if that will work. I’m getting there with my fitness test and stuff but I’m starting to lose motivation because I don’t know if there’s going to be a season in the first place.

Aidan, May 26- Today was supposed to be our prom and prom house which I was really looking forward to and the whole graduation/Baccalaureate Mass was supposed to be this weekend and it just feels weird. Also, surreal that everything I thought the end would be like is not coming to fruition. But at least we’re going to have a real graduation later on.

Aidan, Jun 16- WOW! today I started work for Amazon, in a warehouse in Carteret and the hours suck! 4am-8am mon/ tues/thurs/sat, but it does pay well and it’s pretty easy. We were going to go down the shore next week but my parents don’t want me to go before graduation because “I could get sick.” I don’t know about that, but you can’t win all battles.

Aidan, Jun 21- I realized I only have eight more weeks of summer left before school starts. I may have to take a gap year though if we’re having online classes or no season because my parents don’t want to pay for that and I agree. But we will know more in July; I’m not a fan of the waiting game that’s been going on for months.

Here at Seton Hall Prep, our story is clearly one of the resilience and courage of our community members, braving the enormous challenges encountered in the first half of 2020. In normal times this spot in the Tower Revisited would host a smileyfaced concluding paragraph, wrapping things up in a nice neat package. Sadly, we are not at the closing chapter of this historic episode. Much as we try, in July 2020, Covid-19 is still calling the shots.

To be sure, there is more to be written.

Hazard Zet Forward.

By Richard Morris H ’95, with contributions from Dr. James Incardona, Lisa Sgaramella, David Snyder ’89, Sharon Verhagen, Maria Santoloquido, Rick Ingraffia, Chris Barnitt ’88, Mark Vitale ’10, Aidan Dunphy ’20, Matthew Guarnuccio ’20

seton hall prep CONNECT & SUPPORT

Alumni Gather at The Moxy

The Prep renewed its traditional fall alumni gathering last October at The Moxy Times Square, only three blocks from NY Penn Station. More than 75 alumni gathered at this spectacular event in October, which was sponsored by alumni brothers Joe ’86 and Rich ’90 Perello. The guests heard from Matt Cannizzo ’90, Director of Institutional Advancement, who thanked everyone for coming together and always doing their best to support The Prep’s initiatives with their philanthropy. Matt also took the opportunity to introduce newly named Headmaster Michael G. Gallo ’79, who spoke to the alumni about what it meant for him to be asked to lead the way for The Prep. Mr. Gallo said “It is truly an honor and a privilege to become the Headmaster of Seton Hall Prep this week. The Prep means so much to me and to so many of us, and I look forward to working with you to strengthen our school for all of us for years to come.”

Bringing the evening to a close, Joe Perello remarked about the importance that Seton Hall The evening’s hosts, Rich ’90 and Joe Perello ’86 Prep had in his and his brother’s lives, “My brother, at right: A trio from the Class of 2011– Rich, and I are pleased to be able to host an event Michael Kane, Cam Stowell, Maurice Roach for The Prep and have you all here to celebrate Class of 2005 mates– Joe Scala, Jon Yochum and give back to a school that has given much to Flanking the newly named us, and to so many others. It is so important that Headmaster, Michael Gallo ’79– Class of 2014 alumni Stefanos Crist, Sean Ream, we all do our part and participate where we can, Jacques St. Germaine, Steve Sanczyk, Pino Bio to ensure that The Prep can continue offering an outstanding education to young men in the same way we were given a very special opportunity during our time there. It is great to see Seton Hall Prep doing so well, and it is a place that Rich and I are always happy to support.”

photos courtesy of the Office of Institutional Advancement

The Msgr. Michael E. Kel TOWER REVISITED SETON HALL PREPARATORY SCHOOL 120 Northfield Avenue West Orange, New Jersey 07052

Celebrating the Launch of The Msgr. William J. Daly ‘38 Planned Giving Society President Msgr. Michael E. Kelly has announced: “This is a special recognition society, named for Msgr. William J. Daly ’38, who served as a teacher, counselor and assistant headmaster at Seton Hall Prep from 1946 to 1967, and who made a lasting impact on the lives and the futures of countless young men. I encourage you to join me in adding your name to The Monsignor William J. Daly ’38 Planned Giving Society, by simply including The Prep in your giving plans and letting us know.”

You can leave a lasting legacy at our beloved Alma Mater, strengthen The Prep for future generations and put your assets to work, saving you tax dollars now and potentially creating lifetime income for yourself.

To learn more please have a look inside….