The Chronicle of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory

THE CHRONICLE OF STRAKE JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY

summer 2013

A key component of the In All Things Capital Campaign is the construction of the new Science & Engineering Building - shown here in a rendering. It will become the largest academic building on campus and will dramatically increase the school’s classroom and lab space. To read more see page 7.

Table of Contents Features Graduation 2013 p. 3

In All Things p. 7 Departments President’s Message - 2 News from 8900 - 13-16 Principal’s Perspective - 17 Athletic News - 18-23 Ignatian Spirituality - 25 Alumni News - 26 Class Notes - 27 In Memoriam & Births- 27

By George - 28

Summer 2013 Vol. 45, No. 4 Editor/Layout Rick Rivers, Director of Communications Contributors Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ Ken Lojo ‘91 Fr. Flavio Bravo, SJ John Knowles ‘14 The Chronicle of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory (USPS 024165) Vol. 45, No. 4, Summer Edition, is published quarterly

by Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, 8900 Bellaire Boulevard, Houston, TX 77036. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, TX. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chronicle of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, 8900 Bellaire Boulevard, Houston, TX 77036-4699.

President Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ Principal Ken Lojo ‘91 Director of Development NJ Santarcangelo ‘67

MISSION STATEMENT To assist young men in their formation as leaders and as Men for Others through a program of rigorous college preparation in the tradition of the Society of Jesus.

ON THE COVER - One of the fundamentals of a Jesuit education is learning to find God In All Things. Students are challenged to find God in the classroom, on the practice field, on service projects, even during their free period, for God is everywhere.

_________________PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE At our final board meeting of the year in May, I gave the board members a summary of the year’s accomplishments.

Our students had achieved an impressive list of awards, National Merit recognitions, and college acceptances. In a year of substantial change in athletics, our teams did well and positioned themselves for even more success in the year ahead. I recalled that just 12 months prior the board approved a plan to purchase the apartments at 6500 Gessner and that today the land is ours once again, the apartments already relics of the past, the land now empty and eagerly awaiting its next life as an important extension of our athletic facilities.

As I recall the last year, I am filled with eager anticipation for the one to come. I cannot wait to see next year’s list of accomplishments.

We are excitingly preparing for the introduction of iPads in our curriculum. This dramatic pedagogical introduction will have significant impact on delivery of education to our students.

We continue to implement our 2010 Strategic Plan, In All Things, which improves and expands our curriculum, strengthens our financial base and our ability to provide need-based financial aid, and continues to renovate and expand our physical plant. I invite you to read the story that begins on p. 7 carefully in order to understand our recent changes and our proposed plans.

Those who know me well are aware of my fondness for item #7 in the Strategic Plan – the Retreat and Leadership Center. It has been a wonderful addition to our program, and we continue to find new ways to take advantage of its remarkable resources.

But the goal from the Strategic Plan which most excites me today is #2, the call for a new science building.

For more than a year, we have worked very hard to convert this goal into a concrete plan, and we are very excited about the results so far.

The new Science & Engineering building will be the largest academic building on campus, and is certainly our most aggressive construction project ever imagined by Strake Jesuit. This building will dramatically add to our campus space. A side by side comparison will give you some idea of its significance:

2

Total TotalSize Size Classrooms Classrooms Science Sciencelabs labs Engineering Engineeringlab lab Computer labs Computer labs Faculty Facultyoffices offices Greenhouse Greenhouse Lecture LectureHall Hall

400 Building New Building 15,532 sq. ft.

68,000 sq. ft.

7 21 21 3 99 0 11 0 33 5 25 25 N/A 579 579sq. sq.ft. ft.

N/A 80 seat capacity 80 seat capacity

As you can see from the numbers, this is a significant building. It will be the largest single building on campus (even larger than the Competition Gym or the Field House), and every single student will have classes in it multiple times each day. It will create needed breathing space on campus as math and computer science classrooms and offices vacate other buildings, providing areas for expansion for all other academic areas.

Most important, though, this important academic building will fundamentally strengthen our science, math, computer science, and engineering curriculum by putting students and teachers in state-of-the-art classrooms and labs.

As you probably know, science and engineering drive Houston’s economy. Just today I read that Houston ranks among the country’s top ten cities for STEM jobs. The new Science & Engineering building thus benefits our students now and prepares them and our city for the future.

We should have our permitting for this new building by the end of the summer, and we will begin construction as soon as we have raised a significant portion of the building’s $16 million cost. Once construction begins, the building should be complete and ready for students in about 12 months.

The year just finished was a very exciting year (and we haven’t even had a chance to touch on the new Jesuit pope!), and the year to come promises to bring more changes and improvements to our campus and our program.

Amidst this change, our mission remains the same – to train boys to become Men for Others.

Thank you for your generous support of our mission.

You are part of the future. You help to make this not just an exciting place, but a home for so many students and their families. Come visit us soon.

May these summer months be filled with relaxation and renewal. May you find God In All Things.

GRADUATION 2013

Senior Elijah Cherry, who will be attending the Merchant Marine Academy, leads the procession of his classmates into commencement carrying the Crusader Cross.

The largest graduating class in the history of Strake Jesuit, a total of 220, received their diplomas on Sunday, May 26, at the school’s 49th Commencement Exercises. Gathered in attendance were family, friends, and the school’s faculty and staff as they filled the Competition Gym. The special day was preceded by the Baccalaureate Mass on Saturday evening.

The Salutatorian for the class was Andrew Mealy and the Valedictorian was Christopher Wager. Wager concluded his address by saying, “As we all go our separate paths, embarking on new journeys which will take us to many different destinations, we must strive to keep this brotherhood in our hearts. And no matter what transpires, know that these men among whom you sit will be there for you. In the words of our brother, Gregory Obi: “It’s only a ‘goodbye’ if you’re never going to see someone again. Just promise to come back and it’ll only be an ‘until next time.’” Our brotherhood is one for which there are no goodbyes. Therefore, gentlemen, boys: until next time.”

3

Among the Class of 2013 are 13 National Merit Finalists, two National Merit Semi-finalists and 24 National Merit Commended students. The class also includes 16 National Hispanic Scholars, two National Achievement Scholars and 31 Eagle Scouts. As a result of their outstanding academic work the class collectively earned over 575 college scholarships, grants and awards valued at over $25 million.

In the fall the graduates will be attending 72 different colleges and universities from among the 192 to which they were accepted. Among those schools are the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy.

The SAT I score average for the class was 1915 (630

critical reading, 647 math and 638 writing) while the average ACT was 29.

Ten students scored a perfect 800 in critical reading, four scored a perfect 800 in math and 10 scored a perfect 800 in writing on the SAT. One student scored a perfect ACT score of 36.

As a pre-requisite for their graduation, all Jesuit students are required to complete a minimum of 100 hours of community service. The Class of 2013 completed over 25,370 hours of community service work. They did so locally, nationally, and literally around the world in such far away places as Vietnam, the Philippines and Belize.

2013 SENIOR AWARDS Each year at graduation, a number of very special Senior Awards are announced and presented.

Listed here are the recipients of those awards from the Class of 2013.

Charles K. Alford Men For Others Memorial Scholarship Award - 2013 Recipient Alejandro Garcia This award was created to honor Charles Alford, a member of the Class of 2011, who died tragically in an auto accident early in his sophomore year.

His classmates, teachers and all who knew him saw him as example of what it means to be a Man for Others. His thoughtfulness, consideration of others, and generosity were a true inspiration.

Jesuit Secondary Education Association Award - 2013 Recipient - Scott Freysinger The Jesuit Secondary Education Association instituted an award to be given to a graduating senior who most closely resembles the ideal of a wellrounded person who is intellectually competent, open to growth, religious, loving, and committed to doing justice in generous service to the people of God.

4

John F. Kennedy Award - 2013 Recipient - Joseph Hernandez The John F. Kennedy Award is presented to a senior whose service to the community at large warrants special recognition.

Rev. Michael F. Kennelly, SJ Award - 2013 Recipient Joseph Ewbank In 1960 Father Michael F. Kennelly of the Society of Jesus with little more than an idea in his head and a phone number in his pocket began an undertaking that became this school. In tribute to him a graduate is recognized who exemplifies the vision, labor, leadership and dedication to Strake Jesuit that Fr. Kennelly exhibited in its founding.

Steven Brian McConnell Award - 2013 Recipient - Kyle Santry Steve Brian McConnell, a member of the class of 1978, died very suddenly during January of his senior year as a result of spinal meningitis. This award is presented to the senior who best exemplifies the traits and character that made Steve the unique person he was. Steve accomplished many great things in athletics despite being “undersized.”

He did this through determination, hard work, dedication and perseverance.

Millard Fillmore Parsley Award - 2013 Recipient - Jeremy Dang In 1978 one of Strake Jesuit’s founding Board members, Mr. Robert H. Parsley, established the Milliard Filmore Parsley Award in honor of his older brother in order to recognize outstanding achievements in speech and debate.

Frank Ribelin Award - 2013 Recipient - Christofer Ahn The Frank Ribelin Award is presented in tribute to a man who has been instrumental in the founding and growth of the Strake Jesuit Art Museum.

Senior Crusader Award - 2013 Recipient - Thomas Heiberger The Dads’ Club in consultation with the Faculty, sponsors the Crusader Award presented to a graduate who has best responded to, and most benefitted from, the influence of the Strake Jesuit Community environment.

Robert H. and Joanne M. Williams Foundation Award - 2013 Recipient - Patrick Granahan The Williams Foundation created his award in order to recognize a college bound student who has a good academic record, strong character and who has been involved in both the school and wider communities.

SONS OF JESUIT GRADUATES JOIN RANKS OF ALUMNI

Fifteen sons of Strake Jesuit alumni, all members of the Class of 2013, joined the ranks of the school’s alumni at Graduation ceremonies on Sunday, May 26. Pictured here are (left to right) - Top row: Jerry ‘71 and Michael ‘13 Sacra, Ken ‘85 and Jacob ‘13 Karr, Lamy III ‘87 and Lamy IV ‘13 Chopin, Michael ‘75 and John ‘13 Kegg, Paul ‘82 and Christopher ‘13 Gidley, and Glenn ‘80 and Andrew ‘13 Mealey. Second Row: Mike ‘88 and Cole ‘13 Medrano, William ‘78 and Benjamin ‘13 Granberry, David ‘82 and Chris ‘13 Wager, Joseph ‘81 and Nicholas ‘13 Scamardi, Trey ‘11 brother of James ‘13 Brasseaux, Brian ‘84 and Austin ‘13 Capo, and John ‘82 and John ‘13 Carpenter. Not pictured: Juan ‘86 and Juan ‘13 Garcia and Joseph ‘74 and Joseph ‘13 Gathe.

5

CLASS OF 2013 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES Abilene Christian University

1 Howard University

4

Southern Methodist University

18

1

1 Indiana University at Bloomington

1

Arizona State University

4 Iowa State University

2

Spring Hill College

Auburn University

8 Kansas State University

4

St. Edward’s University

Augustana College

1 Knox College

1

St. Mary’s University of San Antonio

3

University of Mississippi

Austin College

6 Lipscomb University

1

Stanford University

1

University of Missouri Columbia

5

Stephen F. Austin State University

1

University of Mount Union

1

1

Austin Community College

1 Louisiana State University

47

9

University of Kentucky

American University

Southwestern University

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

1

10

University of Miami

8

27

University of Michigan

6 11

1

Stevens Institute of Technology

University of Nebraska at Lincoln

1

Belmont University

1 Louisiana Tech University

1

SUNY College at Cortland

1

University of New Mexico

1

Boston College

5 Loyola Marymount University

2

Swarthmore College

2

University of New Orleans

1

6

Syracuse University

3

University of North Texas

4

Tarleton State University

2

University of Notre Dame

9

Baylor University

64 Louisiana State University at Eunice

Boston University

6 Loyola University Chicago

Brandeis University

1 Loyola University New Orleans

16

Bucknell University

1 Marquette University

California Institute of Technology

1 Massachusetts Institute of Technology 1

5

Texas A&M University

119

University of Oklahoma

11

Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi 3

University of Pennsylvania

11

University of Pittsburgh

2

26

University of Portland

1

2

1

Texas A&M University, Galveston

Carleton College

1 Michigan State University

2

Texas Christian University

Carnegie Mellon University

1 Millsaps College

2

Texas State University-San Marcos

University of Puget Sound

2

29

University of Richmond

1 3

California Polytechnic State University 2 Miami University, Oxford

7

Case Western Reserve University

5 Morehouse College

3

Texas Tech University

Central College

1 Muhlenberg College

1

Trinity University

22

University of Rochester

3

University of San Diego

4

University of Scranton

1

Claremont McKenna College

3 New York University

2

Tufts University

Clark University

1 North Carolina A&T State University

1

Tulane University

Clemson University

6 North Carolina State University

3

Union College

University of Southern California

4

University of St. Francis

1

12 1

College of the Holy Cross

1 Northeastern University

4

United States Merchant Marine Academy 1

College of William and Mary

2 Northwestern University

1

United States Military Academy

1

University of St. Thomas

5

1 Occidental College

2

United States Naval Academy

1

University of the Incarnate Word

1

20 Ohio State University

1

Universidad Iberoamericana

1

University of the Pacific

1

Colorado College Colorado School of Mines Colorado State University

1 Oklahoma State University

3

University of Alabama

13

Columbia University

3 Pennsylvania State University

5

University of Arkansas

5

University of Texas, Austin

48

Cornell College

2 Pepperdine University

1

University of Arizona

3

University of Texas, Dallas

11

1

University of California at Berkeley

1

University of Texas, San Antonio

12

1

University of Texas, Tyler

Cornell University

1 Pitzer College

University of Texas, Arlington

1

Creighton University

6 Polytechnic Institute of NYU

1

University of California at Davis

Dartmouth College

2 Pomona College

1

University of California at Los Angeles 2

University of Tulsa

Davidson College

1 Princeton University

2

University of California at Riverside

1

University of Vermont

1

2

University of Virginia

5

1 19

DePaul University

2 Purdue University

6

University of California at San Diego

Drexel University

2 Reed College

2

University of California at Santa Barbara 1

Vanderbilt University

3

1

Duke University

1 Regis University

4

University of California at Santa Cruz

Villanova University

3

Earlham College

1 Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

4

University of Chicago

1

Virginia Polytechnic Institute

1

3

University of Colorado at Boulder

8

Wake Forest University

4

12

University of Dallas

4

Washington and Lee University

3

1

University of Denver

3

Washington University in St. Louis

2

2

University of Evansville

1

Webb Institute

1

1

University of Florida

1

Wesleyan University

1

24

University of Georgia

3

Whittier College

1

1

University of Houston

39

Williams College

2

1

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

1

1

Xavier University

4

Elon University

1 Rhodes College

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 2 Rice University Emory University Fordham University

4 Rochester Institute of Technology 14 Rockhurst University

Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering 1 Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology George Washington University

3 Saint Louis University

Georgetown University

6 Saint Mary’s College of California

Georgia Institute of Technology

8 Sam Houston State University

1

University of Houston, Downtown

Grinnell College

2 San Diego State University

1

University of Houston, Victoria

Harvard University

1 Santa Clara University

Houston Baptist University

8 Sewanee: The University of the South 3

6

17

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 5 University of Kansas

3

Xavier University of Louisiana

2

Yale University

1

In March of 2010, the Strake Jesuit Board of Directors were presented the results of a wide ranging strategic planning process. This process included Task Teams comprised of all facets of the school community including of faculty and administration, members of the Board of Directors themselves, parents and alumni. Each of these Teams was charged to define strategic goals for their area or issue with each goal evaluated against the questions: Is this goal bold? Is this goal transformational for Strake Jesuit in light of the school’s mission?

The results, which the Board approved, included eight specific goals (see page 8 for a list). Cumulatively they provide a way for Jesuit to build on what it already does - provide a premier secondary education for college-bound young men.

It is for this purpose of implementing these goals that the school has embarked on the In All Things Capital Campaign. To continue to train young men to be Men for Others, fully alive - aware of their calling, filled with knowledge, of noble character, enthusiastic, humbly accepting their missions of service and leadership in the adult community of men and women of many faiths, cultures and nations - able to find God In All Things.

7

In All Things Strategic Plan 2010 Goal 1 Strake Jesuit will enhance the curriculum and assign the faculty needed to continue to produce and engage students who may be interested in a career in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math consistent with the Jesuit tradition in education.

Goal 2 In order to create Houston’s leading Science, Technology, Engineering and Math programs, Strake Jesuit will construct a single-building facility that would meet the needs of future student populations in these disciplines.

Goal 3 Strake Jesuit will develop joint venture & partnering opportunities with businesses, universities, medical, energy and other industries.

Goal 4 The general and student aid endowments of Strake Jesuit must be increased in order to expand financial aid, offset additional operating costs from infrastructure enhancements, and for rainy day needs.

While each campaign goal is significant and important, several key objectives include: In the early 1970’s Strake Jesuit, due to a bank failure, found itself in bankruptcy. As a result, 23 acres of the school’s 67 acres were lost. The lost property consisted of approximately 14 acres along Gessner drive and another nine on Bellaire. The administration at the time, under the guidance of Fr. Michael Alchediak, SJ who was the school’s president, worked tirelessly to save the remainder of the school’s 44 acres, which it successfully did.

Since then it has been the dream of alumni and the school’s administration to re-acquire the land. This dream has been so palatable that it became a stated goal of the In All Things Campaign.

In July 2012 the opportunity to re-acquire a portion of that land presented itself and the School’s Board of Directors and Administration moved decisively and purchased 7.5 acres of its original property at 6500 Gessner. The re-acquisition of the land and the re-development of the property into school will fulfill that campaign objective.

LAND RE-ACQUISITION & RE-DEVELOPMENT

Goal 5 All Strake Jesuit students will have a basic knowledge of personal finances before graduation.

Goal 6 Strake Jesuit will continue to maintain a strong repair & maintenance program to ensure current structures are maintained in superior condition while continuing campus beautification.

Goal 7 Strake Jesuit will own and operate a retreat center that will accommodate and serve the diverse needs of all of our current and future retreat programs in a quiet, contemplative, and comfortable setting.

Goal 8 Building on the success of the senior community service program, Strake Jesuit will more intensely involve students from all grade levels in a variety of engaging, reflective and transformative community service projects.

8

Current plans (right) for the re-acquired property at 6500 Gessner include 200 additional parking spaces, two full-size practice fields, a locker room facility and the golf practice area.

“The purchase of this land was an historic moment for the school,” said school president Fr. Daniel Lahart, SJ, “and we acted on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with the confidence that alumni and friends will provide us with the financial resources for this purchase and for the conversion of the property back to school use.” Demolition of the apartments located on the property began last January with that work completed by March.

Plans for how the land will be returned to school use are in development. Initial plans call for two full-size practice areas, a locker room facility and a golf practice area.

Actual construction will begin when the funds have been raised.

“The two full-size athletic fields will be used by various teams for practice and competitions,” noted Jesuit’s Athletic Director Michael Crowley. “With 13 varsity sports and 40 teams, practice space is a premium especially in the busy spring sports seasons. This additional space will enable our teams to expand their practice plans and provide much needed flexibility for scheduling competitions.”

A key goal of the In All Things Strategic Plan is to position Strake Jesuit as an innovative leader in teaching science and math education allowing our students to compete in the best universities in the country in these areas. The enhancement of the school’s Science Program and the development of curriculum for those students interested in pursuing studies in Engineering in college is one of the two critical elements to reaching that goal. Great strides have already been to the curriculum.

Jesuit’s Computer Science curriculum is unparalleled in the state of Texas. In addition to offering a dual-credit advanced Computer Science course with the University of Washington and a Projects class, the department also offers courses such as Art, Animation & Computing and Computer Science for Engineers.

The Science curriculum has also been strengthened to include AP Physics C and Engineering Design and Problem Solving. Students use the engineering design process cycle to investigate, design, plan, create, and evaluate solutions. At the same time, this course fosters awareness of the social

ENHANCED CURRICULUM

and ethical implications of technological development.

In mathematics, Jesuit has partnered with the Jesuit Virtual Learning Academy to provide multi-variable calculus for those students at the top of their class in this discipline.

The course is offered as dual-enrollment with Creighton University.

In addition, Jesuit has also created the Engineering Club which further broadens students’ experiences and hands-on learning. Through the club they also learn organization and problem-solving skills with a specific goal in mind. The club competes in Robotics events regionally and nationally. In 2012, in only their second year of competition, the team earned a coveted Chairman’s Award and a trip to St. Louis for the FIRST Robotics World Championships.

9

A critical element to the enhancement of the curriculum is the design and construction of a stateof-the-art Science and Engineering Building. Unlike traditional high school classes in English or Social Studies, by definition, coursework in Science requires very specialized classroom space and laboratories.

Design work has been completed on this exciting new

SCIENCE & ENGINEERING BUILDING

facility that offers the much-needed lab space for Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. This specialized and enlarged space will enable teachers to spend more class time in the labs rather than a traditional classroom. In addition, it will allow them to include in their offerings long-term experiments as well as to allow students to conduct independent research and group work with the Chemistry Club or Medical Club.

The building’s design also features dedicated space for Engineering classes and workspace for the Engineering

Scan to watch an animated rendering of the Science & Engineering Building.

Above are renderings of the new Science & Engineering Building including the south-facing exterior (top) and the layout of the first floors (bottom).

10

Club. This dedicated space with access to the proper tools will not only enhance the engineering-related lab environment but also it will give the already successful Engineering Club the proper space within to work and collaborate.

Among its many other features are three labs each for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics and a lab prep room for each; two Computer Science labs, an Engineering lab and an Engineering Computer lab. “These labs will create greater experiential learning opportunities for our students,” said Trip Norkus ‘95, Assistant Principal for Academics. In addition there will be 21 traditional classrooms as well as a Lecture Hall, Greenhouse and Greenhouse Roof Garden.

The additional classroom space that the new building will provide is also critical. “A larger number of classrooms gives us both greater flexibility in scheduling,” added Norkus, “and is necessary to enable us to accommodate the goal of expanding enrollment to 1,000 students.”

This new facility will also enable the Science, Computer Science, and Math classes and faculty offices to be located in one space. “The collaborative and cross-curricular nature of these disciplines make this a critical improvement,’ said Norkus. “It will enhance teacher’s ability to integrate science

with other disciplines and connect content to real world experiences.”

Thanks to the generous donation of a magnificent tract of land less than 2 hours from campus and the support of so many benefactors, Strake Jesuit has achieved this goal with the Retreat and Leadership Center, a facility that few private schools in the country can imagine.

In addition to retreats, the Center provides a great location for other group activities. As an example, athletic teams are able to take advantage of the facility using the Center as a team-building facility or a team using the complex over a weekend to prepare before heading into the playoffs. The secluded nature of the center is ideal for important team and leadership building as well as emphasizing that God is in our life and in all things.

The property is located is Leon County, just west of I-45 near Leona, Texas, and south of Centerville. The beautiful site features rolling hills, large trees, and access to a small lake. It is an ideal setting for students and faculty to

OWN AND OPERATE A RETREAT CENTER

The construction of the Strake Jesuit Retreat & Leadership Center was completed just over a year ago.

11

encounter God in nature and to enhance their spiritual reflection and growth.

Since Jesuit schools were first founded in the mid-1500’s, students have been served from all religions, socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. This diversity is a hallmark of Jesuit education. Since the mid1990’s, Strake Jesuit has awarded over $11.5 million in financial aid, making it possible for almost 2,000 students to enroll who otherwise would not have been able to attend.

The expansion of the campus and improvements to the curriculum are not intended to be exclusive. At Strake Jesuit the commitment to social justice is lived in the creation and the management of the annual budget. Each year, approximately 15% of the student body benefits from financial aid. This financial aid is funded through the Strake Jesuit Foundation that manages an $11 million student aid endowment.

While making capital improvements, Strake Jesuit is committed to continue to improve its care for its students who require financial assistance. In this way, the real riches

FINANCIAL AID ENDOWMENT

of Strake Jesuit become not buildings and endowments, but a student body that is truly integrated and multifaceted. To this end, the campaign objectives include a $8,000,000 addition to the school’s endowments.

All members of the Strake Jesuit community are invited to consider ways of participating in this effort to build, strengthen, and magnify the great institution that bears the name Strake Jesuit. Your financial commitment can change the lives of countless young men whose lives will be shaped by the great Jesuit values of education, service, and gratitude. You, too, can help build “Men for Others - Heart, Mind, Body and Soul.”

For information on how you can help, contact N.J. Santarcangelo ‘67, Director of Development, at 713.490.8152 or at njs@strakejesuit.org.

One of Jesuit’s hallmarks is its diversity, serving students of all religions, socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. Each year, approximately 15%, or one of every seven, Jesuit students benefits from the school’s financial aid program.

12

8900

NEWS FROM JESUIT HOSTS 1ST ANNUAL EAGLE SCOUT DINNER Strake Jesuit held its 1st Annual Eagle Scout Dinner on Monday, April 8 to recognize and honor current students who had achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

Of the 36 Eagles, 34 were able to attend, many joined by their parents and scoutmaster.

The concept for the dinner came from former Board Member John Huff and his son, Chris, an Eagle Scout and member of the Strake Jesuit Class of 1986.

“We have long recognized that the core of scouting is in harmony with who were are, and what we expect of our students and our graduates,” noted school President Daniel Lahart, SJ to those in attendance. “Tonight we say ‘Congratulations’ for your hard work, but more than that, we say thank you for dedicating yourselves to principles in keeping with who we are as a Jesuit school.”

He also noted that, while on a national scale only 1-2% of all scouts earn the rank of Eagle, the 37 Eagles among Jesuit students represent 4% of the student body and that the 28 seniors among them represent an impressive 13% of the Class of 2013. By graduation that number of seniors grew to 31.

Allen Brown was the evening’s guest speaker. Mr. Brown, father of Eagle Scout Alex ‘05, currently serves as the Chairman of the Strake Jesuit Foundation and is former Chairman of the Strake Jesuit Board of Directors. Mr. Brown is also heavily involved with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) as he is a member of the BSA’s National Advisory Council, Sam Houston Area Council Executive Board and Executive Board of the Southern Region. In addition, he is a recipient of the BSA’s Beaver, Antelope and Buffalo Awards.

CHUCK KENNY, GABRIELA GRANADOS RECEIVE 2013 FLEMING TEACHING EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Eagle Scouts of 2012-2013: Left to right - Front Row: Merritt Baker ‘15, Joseph Hernandez ‘13, Hunter Stewart ‘15, Zack Westenhaver ‘15, Evan LeGros ‘14, Chandler Terrell ‘15, Luke Guillen ‘15, John Taylor ‘13 and Jacob Karr ‘13. Second Row: Spencer Dugan ‘13, Gator Adams ‘13, Collier Pruner ‘13, Addison Snelling ‘13, Tyler Fleming ‘13, Wesley Longsworth ‘13, Gabriel Gidley ‘13, Jordan Brooks ‘13, and Davis Whitson ‘14. Third Row: Raleigh Davis ‘13, Christopher Scheller ‘13, Rhett Baker ‘13, Daniel Maes ‘13, Matthew Schaefer ‘13, Scot Freysinger ‘13, Edward Alwais ‘13 and William Kudela ‘14. Top Row: Drew Weitzel ‘13, Cameron Seeby ‘13, Wyatt Kamin ‘13, Daniel Kendall ‘13, Ryan Barbe ‘13, Blake Bourne ‘13, Nasim Dimassi ‘13 and Jared Jallans ‘13. Not pictured: Alexander DeGroot ‘13, Chris Eumont ‘13 and Karl Stomberg ‘13.

Since 2005, the annual Fleming Award for Teaching Excellence has been presented to two members of the Jesuit faculty who are selected for their excellence in the classroom and for cura personalis of our students. At the annual Awards Day on May 2 Mrs. Gabriela Granados and Mr. Chuck Kenny were announced as this year’s recipients.

Mrs. Granados, a member of the Foreign Language faculty, has been a member of the faculty since 2005 and is this year’s recipient among teachers who have been at the school for 15 years or less. Mr. Kenny is a member of the Computer

13

8900

NEWS FROM

Science faculty, is Assistant to the Dean of Students and also serves as the Head Tennis Coach. He served as Head Basketball Coach from 1992 through 2003. He has served at Jesuit since 1992 and is the recipient of the award for teachers who have been at the school for more than 15 years.

“I am most humbled by this award, and I want to thank the Fleming Grant, the Strake Jesuit Administration and my fellow teachers for making this possible,” said Mrs. Granados.

“It is an honor to be a recipient of this year’s Fleming Award,” noted Mr. Kenny. “What makes this so special is understanding that I work among so many deserving faculty members who truly care about developing our young Principal Mr. Ken Lojo ‘91, Mrs. Janis Fleming, Mr. Chuck Kenny, Mrs. Gabriela students to be Men for Others.

Granados, President Fr. Daniel Lahart, SJ. Dr. Fleming had a lifelong interest in education. After college graduation, he taught the children of migrant workers and American Indians in Arizona. He never forgot this teaching experience. He earned a Doctorate in Education. Dr. Fleming then went on to a successful career as a hospital administrator, which included being an administrator of the Methodist Hospital in Houston and the Santa Rosa Hospital in San Antonio. He was elected President of the Texas Hospital Association and was awarded their highest honor, the Earl Collier Award.

Dr. Fleming was married to Mary K. Fleming. They had two sons, George and Scott. Scott was a member of the Strake Jesuit class of 1969. George’s son Tyler is a member of this year’s graduating class at Jesuit.

PEER MINISTRY CLASS RAISES AWARENESS OF TEEN DEPRESSION

by John Knowles ‘14 Peer Ministry, a senior theology elective taught by Fr. Flavio Bravo, SJ and Retreat Coordinator Eric Olson ‘02, hosted a three-day Peer Ministry Forum on Teen Depression. Senior Sean Ryan and a member of the class said that the forum aimed to “put a face to teen depression.”

“We wanted to focus on an issue that we thought was under-treated and under-recognized in the community at large,” he said. Depression, a clinical condition, affects 20% of teenagers nationwide, including several of Jesuit’s own students. The Peer Ministry class contacted some of them, whom Ryan praised as “courageous seniors, juniors, and sophomores who were willing to speak about their experiences with depression” in order to raise awareness.

14

8900

NEWS FROM

The first day the Peer Ministry class hosted a panel of several of these students. The school’s Pastoral Ministry Center proved an invaluable resource for these depressed teens. Several of the students said that the Junior Kairos retreat provided them a forum to open up about their troubles and a network of genuine friends that has sustained their lives.

The next day’s presentation featured a panel of five experts in mental health and teen suicide prevention.

The panel of Dr. Kirti Saxena, MD, Dr. Amber Burks, MD, Ms. Brenda Fitch, Ms. Sara Aguirre, and Dr. Matthew Paradise, PhD spoke about depression and how to treat it.

The three-day event concluded on Friday with a The Peer Ministry Club held a cookout to conclude their cookout on the Kennelly Green. The Peer Ministry sponsorship of the forums on teen depression. class did the grilling and students turned out for lunch with a donation as an option. Also available for purchase were purple “You Are Not Alone” wristbands. All totaled the event raised over $600 which will help support the mission trips this summer.

CRUSADER OF THE YEAR AWARDS PRESENTED AT FATHER-SON BREAKFAST Since 1966, the Strake Jesuit Dads’ Club has been presenting the Crusader of the Year Award to one member of each class. For many years the awards to the freshman, sophomore and junior Crusaders of the Year have been presented at the annual Father-Son Breakfast. This year’s breakfast was held on Sunday, April 7 and the three award winners were announced.

Students are nominated by the faculty based on criteria in three categories: Scholastic Involvement, Extracurricular Involvement and Spiritual Involvement. The Scholastic category includes academic achievement as well as class conduct, attitude, initiative, and cooperation.

The Extracurricular category examines a student’s quantity and quality of involvement, leadership in activities, and length of commitment. And the Spiritual category includes faith in With Fr. Lahart, SJ are the 2012-2013 Crusader of the Year Award Recipients at God, moral attitude, personal conduct, the annual Father-Son Breakfast (left to right) freshman Andrew Hebert, sophomore and consideration of others.

Blake Bordelon and junior John Knowles.

15

8900

NEWS FROM

The Freshman Crusader of Year is Andrew Hebert. Andrew is a hardworking and active member in the Business Club and Key Club and is the third of three brothers to attend Jesuit.

The Sophomore Crusader of the Year is Blake Bordelon. Blake is an avid runner who divides his time between both cross country and track, and he is an active member in the Medical Club and the Chemistry Club.

The Junior Crusader of the Year is John Knowles. John is an extraordinarily gifted student who demonstrates a special command of the English language both as a writer and a communicator. He is a highly valued member of SJET, a member of both the track and cross country teams, a talented saxophone player in the Jazz Band, and a member of the Strake Jesuit Quiz Bowl team. John was later elected Student Council President for the 2013-2014 school year.

MEN’S RETREAT PROGRAM LAUNCHED AT RETREAT & LEADERSHIP CENTER One of the major benefits of the Strake Jesuit Retreat & Leadership Center was always expected to be the use of the facility by more than just current students and faculty. The Mothers’ Club and Dads’ Club each hold annual retreats at the facility and this year a Men’s Retreat Program was begun and was open to all men in the school community, including alumni, current and past parents as well as faculty and staff.

Led by a visiting Jesuit Retreatants at the February Men’s Retreat gather around the statue of St. Ignatius which stands priest, three Retreats were originally scheduled, though outside the Chapel at the Retreat & Leadership Center. Retreatants include alumni, current parents, past parents and members of the Jesuit faculty and staff. circumstances resulted in one being canceled. The two other retreats were held in February and April. The February retreat was led by Fr. Anthony Wieck, SJ over the weekend of February 15-17 and was themed “Ignatian Spirituality in the Daily Life of Men.” The other was led by Fr. Brian Reedy, SJ over the weekend of April 5-7 and was themed “Eucharist and Daily Prayer.”

The retreats, which run from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon with all meals and accommodations included, will return again in 2013-2014. Alumni and other men in the Strake Jesuit community are encouraged to watch their email inbox for dates and more information as the schedule is completed.

16

PRINCIPAL’S PERSPECTIVE_________________ Summertime brings with it a welcome respite to the hurried rush of the school year. Often while school is in session, days rush by in a whirlwind of classes, meetings, competitions, and events for faculty, staff and students.

Time passes quickly making it challenging to find a moment to pause and catch your breath. This year was no exception. Thankfully, the slower pace of summer gives us a chance to pause and put things in perspective before the hectic pace of the next school year begins.

One of the biggest dangers of a ‘hurried life’ is the loss of perspective. Whether young or old, student or teacher, employed or retired, we all face trials and tribulations. It is only human of us to focus too much on our own problems. And let’s face it, it is much easier, more dramatic, and infinitely more intriguing to focus on our problems in life. The truth is however, no matter how big our problems may seem, life is good.

We should say that more often.

Early this summer, my wife and I attended a dinner celebrating the 40th birthday of one of my best friends. As I thought back on our friendship, I realized we had been friends for as far back as I could remember.

We share memories as distant as first grade. For several of us, our stories stretched back through grade school, our time at Jesuit, through college, and beyond graduate school. I was surprised how memories from only a few years ago already seemed decades away. The problems of childhood and adolescence might as well have been eons ago. That perspective made me realize how quickly problems become distant memories in just a few short years. They certainly fade quickly in time.

Towards the end of the evening, another guest asked my friend, “So, how are things?” He responded, “Things are great. I’m very happy. I have a wonderful family, a loving wife, two children and another one on the way. Life is good!”

After he answered, an awkward quiet lingered. His answer couldn’t have been a more boring. Where was the drama? How about a few complaints about the hardships of raising two young children? Or just a few moans about not having enough time to get things done? He could have at least lamented the fact some considered him ‘over the hill.’ But he chose the uncommon answer – the boring one – but the right one. He told us the truth. Life is good!

His response had a profound impact on me that evening. It changed my perspective. During our drive home, my wife and I talked of the highs and lows of the school year. I noticed that the ‘highs’ of the year felt higher, while the ‘lows’ faded away. Undoubtedly, God’s grace was working through my friend’s positive perspective on his life.

My favorite prayer of St. Ignatius’ is the Sucipe which concludes, “Give me only your love and your grace, that is enough for me.” Ignatius had it right. God’s love and grace are very real and truly powerful things. They are ever-present no matter how big our troubles may seem. If we make a conscious decision to appreciate the good in our life we will never take God’s gift of life for granted. Life is too short!

This summer, I hope you find a moment to pause and reflect on your perspective. God’s love and grace is enough, no matter what problems we face. Truly, life is good!

17

news

aTHLETIC

BASEBALL

The Crusaders Baseball Team finished a strong season with a 21-10 record. The win totaled equaled their 21 wins a year ago, giving them their first back-to-back 20 win seasons since 1999 and 2000.

The team started very strong with 12 straight wins that included winning the Alief Tournament.

The team entered play in their tough District 195A suffering their first loss, a tough 1-0 decision at the hands of Katy Taylor. The squad stayed in the playoff race right to the end that included a win over eventual district champion Seven Lakes. They ended with a 7-8 district record, just missing a berth in the playoffs.

“I am particularly proud and grateful to this group of seniors who were members of the last two seasons that had a combined record of 42-18,” said Head Coach Raul Garcia-Rameau.

Nick Zarosky who had a 4-2 record and a 2.04 ERA, Nick Zarosky earned 2nd Team All-District 19-5A was selected to the 2nd Team All-District. Ryan Chandler, honors by hitting .327 while posted a 4-2 pitching record who hit .295 on the season, Pierce Pontikes, who hit with a 2.04 ERA. .290 in district play, Drake Stacy, who had a .935 fielding percentage, Zach Stockton, who hit .288 in district play, and Nick Hartman, who had a 3.72 ERA all received All-District Honorable Mention recognition.

GOLF The Strake Jesuit Golf Team had a great year. The squad finished 2nd at 4 tournaments, Katy Taylor, the Butch Harmon Memorial, their own Jesuit Invitational and the District 19-5A Tournament. The team finished the season with the 5th lowest tournament scoring average in school history at 318.0. They also posted the 6th lowest 2-Day tournament in the school’s history score with a 717 score at the Katy Taylor Tournament at River Ridge. They also posted the 7th lowest 2-Day post-season tournament score in school history with their 710 at the District 19-5A tournament.

Their final 4th place finish at the district tournament, by senior Nolan Aparicio, juniors Matt Digoy, Daniel Platt and sophomores Ashton Radvansky and Ben Davidson, Daniel Platt, Nolan Aparicio, Matt Digoy, and Ashton Ben Davidson, earned the Crusaders their Radvansky teamed up to take 2nd place at the District 19-5A Golf Tournament. first berth in the Regional Tournament

18

NEWS

ATHLETIC since 2008. They competed well at the Regional Tournament where they missed a berth in the State Tournament by just eight shots.

In results that should prove fruitful next year, the JV team won four tournaments including the District Tournament.

Digoy, Radvansky and Davidson earned All-District honors and Radvansky added All-State recognition. Meanwhile senior John Taylor was named 2nd Team Academic All-State honors and C.J. Pruner earned Academic All-State Honorable Mention honors.

LACROSSE The 2013 Crusader Lacrosse program played one of the toughest schedules in the state battling seven of the state’s top 10 teams. Against school rival St. Thomas the Crusaders extended their winning streak and remained undefeated in four years as district foes. The Crusader would also post district wins against Seven Lakes and Lamar before spring break.

The team traveled to the 17th Annual Jesuit Lacrosse Classic in Tampa where they defeated Canisius and McQaid, but fell short against Fordham and tournament host Tampa. Once back in Texas the Crusaders faced three big district match ups. Although the Crusaders fell short of the playoffs it did not diminish the pride and solidarity the team played with. While the record was not as planned, there was no denying that the Crusaders went toe-to-toe with the best the state had to offer.

Several Crusaders received post-season honors led by senior defenseman Elijah Cherry, a three year letterman, who received All-State honors.

Elijah led the Crusaders in caused turnovers and was the defensive MVP and on field leader. Senior midfielder Miles Cantrell, who led the team in assists, and senior attackman Erik Rowley both received All-District honors. As the point man on offense Cantrell did a great job directing the offense. Rowley led the Crusaders offensively averaging a little over a hat-trick per game. He drew a lot of attention from Elijah Cherry was selected All-State while leading every opponent because of his quick left handed the Crusaders in caused turnovers. release and sniper like accuracy. Senior faceoff midfielder Ryan Barbe, who had one of the best years at the faceoff in school history, was named All-District Honorable Mention.

Although these are the only guys that received post season honors from Texas High School Lacrosse League there where many other standout performances this season. This senior class was a very close group of friends who will be missed.

19

NEWS

ATHLETIC

RUGBY

John Burke (top) and Connor Hibbler (right) shared the Outstanding Team Contributor Award for the Rugby team this year.

Following a very strong 2012 campaign, Crusader Rugby moved into Division I in a realigned Rugby Texas format for 2013 play. In addition to its Rugby Texas commitments, Jesuit took a Varsity team on a tour to New York City, its first tour since the inception of the program in 2008. Being in Division I the Crusaders faced much stronger competition in the new alignment. The Varsity finished the 2013 season with a 2-6 record in Cup Matches and 2-10 overall while the JV were 3-6 overall.

Injuries and other circumstances gave opportunities to a number of talented underclassmen in virtually every position. The Varsity at times had as many as seven sophomores in its First XV (first team) and while they lacked experience, the lessons learned will serve the players well in the future. These opportunities passed down to the JV as the sophomores gave way to the freshmen, who logged far more playing time than would have normally been the case.

While the Varsity started out in a promising manner, reaching the midpoint of the Cup campaign at 2 – 2 before succumbing to the strength of Division I, the JV reversed the trend by starting out slowly but finishing with two successive victories, one over Castle Ridge and the second over St. Thomas JV in the season finale.

This season the Crusaders were gifted with a number of standout individual performances, many of those receiving well-deserved recognition. Among those were John Burke and Connor Hibbler who shared the Outstanding Team Contributor Award, Jonathan Lucas who was selected as the Most Improved Player and Jacob Monty who was Rookie of the Year. Monty was also selected as a trialist for Rugby Texas High Performance at the Under 17 level.

SOCCER The varsity soccer team finished the season with an exciting playoff run that saw the team advance to the Region 3 Quarterfinal game. The loss that ended their season was against Elsik, a team that was ranked number 1 in the nation earlier in the season, and also the team that went to the UIL State Semifinals.

The Crusaders earned that finish in atypical fashion. Jesuit won three straight district titles over the previous three seasons. But this season, the team had to battle its way just to get into the playoffs. Morton Ranch, who went to the UIL State Championship Final in 2012, and Seven Lakes proved to be teams that wanted to knock Jesuit out of that district championship streak. Tough games with other district foes found Jesuit in need of playing a “play-in” just to earn fourth place and make it to the playoffs. Jesuit would play this game against Mayde Creek, who defeated Jesuit one week earlier.

20

NEWS

ATHLETIC

Jesuit scored one minute into this game, but the Rams tied it and the game went to overtime. Both teams scored in OT, so the game then went to a penalty kick shootout. This was the first year where the FIFA penalty kick shootout replaces the 5 second 35-yard dribble down shootout.

Jesuit trailed early, but back-up goalkeeper and penalty specialist George Fritsch came up with two penalty saves and forced another miss to clinch the win and a playoff spot.

The Crusaders beat Sam Houston in the first round and Cy Lakes in the second round. The team was losing 0 – 1 in the Sam Houston game, but came back with two goals by Thomas DiGregorio and Dan Guerrero to win.

Against Cy Lakes, Jordan Brooks scored early, but the Jordan Brooks, Steffen Seitz, and Chris Wager (left to right) each were game was tied late in regulation when defender Kevin named 1st Team All-District 19-5A. Jones scored to give Jesuit the win.

Strake Jesuit finished the season with a record of 13-9-4 overall, and 6-6-2 in district play. Chris Wager led the team scoring 6 goals and 2 assists. Steffen Seitz earned seven shutouts in goal for the Crusaders. Nacho Torras, Matt Digoy, and Kevin Jones earned All District Honorable Mention.

David Caligur, Santi Restrepo, and Sam Kelly earned All District 2nd Team honors, and Chris Wager, Jordan Brooks, and Steffen Seitz were selected to the All District 1st Team.

Seniors Max deGroot, Sam Kelly, Santi Restrepo, Sean Ryan, Steffen Seitz, and Chris Wager were named to the Texas Association of Soccer coaches (TASCO) Academic All-State Team.

TENNIS The Crusaders Tennis Team finished the spring season with a strong record in Dual Matches. The team posted a 7-1 mark with wins over Bellaire, Alief Taylor, Katy, Westside, St. John’s, Episcopal and St. Thomas. Their lone defeat was a close 7-6 loss to Stratford.

In tournament play, several varsity players had notable successes. At the CyFair Tournament sophomore Anthony Sanchez won 5 straight matches to capture the Singles B tournament top medal. At the Pearland Tournament Junior Aaron Elder paired with Raquel Lyn from St. Agnes to win the Mixed Doubles.

In results that bode well for next year and beyond, the JV and freshman teams each won their divisions of Cy-Fair Tournament and the freshman added a win at the Katy Tournament.

The team also maintained the tradition of Community Service playing a key role in their team activities serving at Loaves and Fishes where they prepared and served over 250 meals to the homeless and donated food and clothes. In addition, the team took advantage of the Retreat & Leadership Center. The team arrived in time for a lunch and then used the pavilion and sport fields for some friendly

Aaron Elder paired with Raquel Lyn from St. Agnes to win the Mixed Doubles of the Pearland Tournament.

21

NEWS

ATHLETIC

intra-squad games of basketball, dodge ball, and ultimate Frisbee. After dinner, the group gathered in the Nevle Reading Room to relax and test their skills at various board games including chess, backgammon, and cards.

“Our RLC visit was a great experience for all our players, and will have a positive impact for seasons to come,” said Kenny. “The RLC facilities are very conducive for allowing our student-athletes the ability to awaken their spirituality, build leadership and strengthen team chemistry.”

TRACK & FIELD

R.J. Ammons placed 3rd at the State UIL Meet in the 3200 after winning the event at the District, Area and Regional Meets.

The Crusaders Track & Field team completed another strong season that included several impressive team finishes and a number of outstanding individual performances. They opened the season with a 4th place finish at the Zoe Simpson Relays at Kingwood. Frank Lara won the 3200m while R.J. Ammons took the 1600m title. The Distance Medley Relay team of Ammons, Gus Raskosky, Greg Obi and Colin Thompson also took 1st place.

The squad then finished 2nd at the Will Taylor Relays at Memorial and their own Crusader Relays. At the TSU Relays Lara again won the 3200m and Ammons again took the 1600m. At the Bluebonnet Relays in Brenham the team took 3rd place.

It was then on to the District 19-5A Meet where the team finished 4th.

Ammons became the Jesuit’s first District Champion in the 3200m and also won the 1600m. Lara finished second in the 3200m and 1600m while sophomores Ilolo Izu placed 4th in the Triple Jump and Kenneth Sessums placed 3rd in the Discus.

Those athletes were joined by senior Conner Carpenter in the 200m and the 4x100 team of sophomores Jimmy Lewis and Blaise Bucey, junior Colby Chapman, Carpenter in qualifying for the Area Meet.

At the Area Meet Ammons, Lara, Sessums, Izu, Conner, the 4x100 Relay team each qualified for the Regional Meet. Ammons and Frank Lara both juniors placed first & second in the 3200 & 1600 and Sessums won the Discus. At the Regional Meet with a berth in the State Meet at stake, Ammons and Lara finished 1st and 2nd in the 3200 to qualify and Ammons also qualified in the 1600.

It was on to Austin and the UIL State Meet for Ammons and Lara. Ammons capped off a great junior year by finishing 3rd with a time of 9:03.60 in the 3200, the third fastest in school history, with Lara placing a strong 7th. Ammons went on to place 8th in the 1600.

“This was my first year at Strake Jesuit, and I am very excited to be here,” said Head Coach Chad Collier. “This is truly a special place with special kids. Our kids love to compete, are mentally and physically tough, and elevate in competition. We have had a lot of fun this season with lots of success.”

WATER POLO The Crusader Water Polo teams had a very exciting season this year. The Varsity finished with an impressive season record of 22-9 and brought home

22

ATHLETIC

NEWS

several trophies. Among those were 2nd place finishes in the Spring Branch Tournament and Westside Wolfpack Tournament. One of our more notable games of the season was defeating this year’s state champion, and otherwise undefeated, Clear Creek, 5-4 in the second game of the Ben Garcia Tournament.

The program was also fortunate to add thirty new members.

The new athletes were dedicated and represented Jesuit well on both the Junior Varsity Green and Junior Varsity White teams. The Junior Varsity teams combined record was 18-14, with all but one of their losses coming against Varsity teams in tournaments. “I am very proud of what they have accomplished this season,” said Head Coach Kevin Kehoe. “They did a fantastic job and we are looking Kyle Luong (left) and Michael Stolte (right) were for great things to come from them in the future.”

Among those players receiving post-season recognition were selected 2nd Team All-Region for Water Polo.

Kyle Luong and Michael Stolte who were each selected 2nd Team All-Region and Justin Cowan and Stefan Grasu who were each selected Honorable Mention All-Region.

CRUSADERS TO TAKE THEIR GAMES TO COLLEGE Another large group of Crusaders are prepared to continue their athletic careers when they move on to college next year. One will be very close to home as Reveal Chukwujekwu signed a National Letters of Intent to play NCAA Division I Basketball at Houston Baptist University.

“Trey was a fantastic representative of Strake Jesuit and the basketball program throughout his career,” said Head Coach Dominic Amorosa. “It was an honor to coach him during their senior season.

I am thrilled he attained his dream of playing D1 Basketball. I look forward to watching him progress on this new teams.”

Chukwujekwu was named District 19-5A Offensive Player of the Year. Chukwujewku tied for the team lead in scoring with an average of 14 points per game.

Eight other Crusader athletes will be playing sports collegiately next year. They include: Gator Adams and Matt Aven - Football at Claremont McKenna, Elijah Cherry - Lacrosse at the Merchant Marine Academy, Nick Hartman - Baseball at LSUEunice, Ben Huskinson - a walk-on in Football at Texas A&M, Robert Martin - Football at Augustana Reveal Chukwujekwu signed his National Letter of College, Pierce Pontikes - Baseball at Trinity, and Alex Intent on National Signing Day to play Division I Vaporciyan - Cross Country and Track at Spring Hill. basketball at Houston Baptist University.

23

G L

He chose to give

The

ift of a

ifetime

Dennis Kana loved Strake Jesuit.

In a teaching career that spanned over 40 years – from 1967 to 2008 -

Dennis spent half of his years in the classroom at Strake Jesuit. After spending the first ten years of his career at the St. Philip School in his hometown of El Campo, Texas, Dennis arrived at Jesuit in the fall of 1978 and would remain at the school until 1998. Over those 20 years, he gained a reputation among the other faculty members like John Hosty as “good, religious, honest, intelligent and not afraid to work hard.” For the better part of his two decades at Jesuit he was a fixture in the Social Studies Department teaching American History, World History and the Civil War. He managed to mix in a few English classes as well. His last six years at Jesuit were spent in the school’s administration as Assistant Principal and finally in the school’s Admissions Office. After leaving Jesuit, Dennis spent ten years at St. Joseph High School in Victoria before retiring in 2008.

“I knew Dennis for over 25 years,” recalled Jesuit’s Director of Development NJ Santarcangelo ‘67. “You could not find a better person. He was kind,

Dennis Kana

religious, hard-working, and lovingly loyal to his mother. We spent many nights enjoying a good meal…laughing, joking and just having a great time.”

As his cousin Mary Ann Brezina recalls, “Dennis enjoyed his years at Strake Jesuit. I can remember how he often spoke highly of the students and faculty.

He loved participating in the school events, especially the one-act plays. His generosity and selfless dedication to Strake Jesuit and to his students were exemplary and inspiring.”

Dennis passed away on March 25, 2010. At his direction, Strake Jesuit was a beneficiary of his estate. In recognition and generosity for his contribution over two decades to Jesuit and its students, the “Dennis Kana Financial Aid Endowment” was started with his gift, truly the Gift of a Lifetime.

For more information on The Loyola Society and Planned Giving at Strake Jesuit, contact N.J. Santarcangelo ‘67 in the Office of Development at 713.490.8152.

24

I

S

GNATIAN

PIRITUALITY

How do we pray?

by Fr. Flavio Bravo, SJ

suggestion, I ask you to recite the Anima Christi as part of your daily devotions.

Linked to the celebration of the Eucharist, the Anima Christi is a prayer that leads us closer to intimacy with our Lord. It is no wonder that St. Ignatius of Loyola thought of it as a way to open our imagination and soul’s desires by bringing us all to remember the scripture passage from the Gospel of John when the disciples are gathered behind locked doors and He appears in their midst. It is at the crucial time of doubts and fears that this prayer comes to mind.

It is also at times of great confirmation and consolation when our hearts recognize the infinite grace and love of His presence.

So, how do you pray? Is there a phrase from the Anima “How do you pray?” I have asked many a student in Christi that perhaps you need to dwell on as you go about my journey as a spiritual director and as a Jesuit Priest. your summer days? Is there a specific image that touches Most of us when posed with this question tend to meander your heart and enlivens your imagination? What part of the around or are puzzled by the question. I know that I have prayer draws you closer to Him? What leaves you wondering answered it in many ways: “I and expectant? just sit and beg the Lord to For some years now, forgive me.” “I praise Him during our morning routine and give Him thanks.” “I don’t at Strake Jesuit, when school know, it depends on what’s is in session, every Thursday going on with my life.” “I just morning the student body say a Rosary.” “I say an Our recites the Anima Christi. I am Father or a Hail Mary.” “I read often moved to cherish the Scripture.” words and to consider the rich I am a firm believer that the meaning of adding my words way we pray and address God and sentiments to the prayer in our Prayer points to the way we share as a community. I we relate to God and the world carry this prayer in my mind around us. The ancient prayer and in my heart, and as I do of the Anima Christi, an ancient that, I carry the voices of those The Incredulity of St. Thomas, Caravaggio prayer suggested by spiritual who have prayed the prayer masters such as St. Ignatius of before me and will continue to Loyola at the beginning of the Spiritual Exercises, is one I recite it with devotion in the future. And as the summer days often use to begin my prayers. I also believe that all prayers advance, I consider the words I use to pray and to connect are kept alive by being prayed, and they are recited either with our loving God. from memory or extemporaneously. The Anima Christi My prayer for you is that you ask for the grace to has been prayed in the Church for centuries and it is often notice how you find yourself connecting and growing in printed on the back of many missalettes for the faithful to intimacy with God. May the Soul of Christ dwell within use as a prayer of thanksgiving after communion. you, sanctifying your days. May the Body of Christ and As summer warms its way through the season, I invite Blood of Christ be your strength so that you can continue you to consider the way you pray, and if I may make a proclaiming God’s goodness and love with your actions.

Anima Christi

Soul of Christ, sanctify me.

Body of Christ, save me.

Blood of Christ, inebriate me.

Water from the side of Christ, wash me.

Passion of Christ, strengthen me.

O Good Jesus, hear me.

Within your wounds hide me.

Permit me not to be separated from you.

From the wicked foe, defend me.

At the hour of my death, call me and bid me come to you That with your saints I may praise you For ever and ever. Amen.

25

NEWS

ALUMNI

DAVID KING ‘08 DRAFTED BY PHILADELPHIA EAGLES Strake Jesuit alumnus David King ‘08 was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 7th round of the NFL Draft this spring.

After graduating from Jesuit, the defensive lineman played at the University of Oklahoma for the Sooners. While at Jesuit, King was named District Defensive Player of the Year and to the All-Greater Houston Football First Team Defense as a senior. During that season he had 46 tackles including seven sacks.

During his senior season at Oklahoma, King started all 13 games and ranked third on the team in sacks. He was named All-Big 12 Second Team by coaches and Academic All-Big 12 First Team. He also earned the team’s Don Key Award presented annually to a senior who exemplifies excellence on the field and in the classroom.

David King ‘08

FR. JENNISKENS, WHO BEGAN HAIRCUT TRADITION, PASSES AWAY Fr. Thomas J. Jenniskens, SJ passed early on Wednesday, May 22 at Our Lady of Wisdom Healthcare Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Dutch, as he was affectionately called, was 86 years of age and was to celebrate his Jubilee for 70 years as a Jesuit this summer. He was a priest for 56 years.

Fr. Jenniskens served at Strake Jesuit from the fall of 1978 through the spring of 1993. While here he taught Theology, worked in the Counseling Office, and served as Pastoral Chairman. He became the Director of Counseling and Guidance in the fall of 1988 and held that position through the spring of 1993. He spent the spring of 1983 on a sabbatical to Rome & the Holy Land.

One of the traditions that Fr. Jenniskens is credited by many with beginning was the freshman haircuts. In a 1987 SJET interview he stated that he was approached by sophomore Mike Wells in 1981 because a number of his classmates wanted to shave their heads for the St. Thomas game. They approached Fr. Jenniskens because they knew he cut hair for the Jesuit community. The varsity football team latched on to the idea and it grew to the point where he would cut Fr. Thomas Jenniskens, SJ, the ‘barber’ of the Jesuit the hair of anyone who wanted it cut for the event.

Community at the time, is credited with beginning the

tradition of student head shavings during Spirit Week.

26

Notes

CLASS

80’s

00’s

Patrick LaRue ‘88 recently joined the law firm of Porter Hedges in Houston as a partner in the Corporate Practice Group.

Richard Hinkley ‘02 was ordained as a transitional deacon on May 18 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston.

Charles Schwalbe ‘89 was married to Lynne Flavell on April 28, 2013 in Morristown, New Jersey. A total of 12 alumni were in attendance including Eric Mills ‘90, Carl Mills ‘89, Steve Vinklarek ‘89, Kris Sanders ‘89, Mike Biles ‘89, Bill Rasch ‘89, Carl Frank ‘89, Dax Philbin ‘89, Jason Naples ‘89, Scot Mills ‘93, and {eter Houston ‘86. The couple reside in northern Spain where Charles is Chief Experience Officer for Northern Exposure Spain which provides custom tours.

Nicholas Shaver ‘02 has been named a Woodrow Wilson Ohio Teaching Fellow. He is a 2006 graduate of Texas A&M with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. A repair engineer with a major aviation firm, he plans to attend the University of Cincinnati with the stipend from the Woodrow Wilson National Teaching Fellowship Foundation to earn his masters to then teach math and/or science in a highneed Ohio school.

90’s

Matt Maly ‘06 recently took a position with Google in San Francisco as a software engineer. He attended Trinity University in San Antonio where he earned a BS in 2010 and then moved Rice University where he is earning his Masters in Computer Engineering.

Christian Grado ‘09 graduated from West Point with a degree in Electrical Engineering with Honors. He will attend the Infantry Basic Leader Course followed by Ranger school and the Stryker Leaders Course in Ft. Benning, Georgia.

~ IN MEMORIAM ~

Norman Stanford ‘76 Jean Cogan Mother of John ‘89, Malcom ‘91, James ‘95 and Charles ‘99 Corby Collins Father of Conner ‘12 Sean Iseness Son of Ted ‘69, Brother of Austin ‘03 and Nephew of Manus ‘66, Mark ‘75 and James ‘77 John Reilly Father of Tom ‘80, Jim ‘81, Bob ‘84 and Johnny ‘88 and Grandfather of Jordan ‘10 Michael Werner Father of Matthew ‘02 and Jonathan ‘04

Francisco Padua ‘97 and his wife, Emily, welcomed the birth of Francisco Antonio “Franco” on February 11, 2013.

Saints of God, come to their aid!

Hasten to meet them, angels of the Lord!

Receive their soul and present them to God the Most High.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, And let perpetual light shine upon them.

May they rest in peace. Amen Taylor Fletcher ‘11 is attending Case Western Reserve in Cleveland and has joined a semi-pro soccer team

~ BIRTHS ~

Francisco Antonio “Franco” Padua February 11, 2013 Francisco ‘97 and Emily

27

LOOK! UP IN THE SKY! IT’S A BIRD! IT’S A PLANE! IT’S A POLICE HELICOPTER! And at the stick is our dashing young pilot, Dan Schwarzbach. The high flying Dan is one of our most popular SJ alumni. Having graduated with the Class of 1975, his face has been a familiar one around this campus (and above it) ever since. As Dan would tell you, “Long before high school, there were two goals that I had my heart set on. One was to attend Strake Jesuit and the other was to fly.” There was a lot of pressure around the Schwarzbach home for Dan to follow in the footsteps of his uncles by opting for that other Catholic boy’s school- the one across town. “Indeed there was. Although my Father went to Kerwin in Galveston, my uncles are all proud St. Thomas grads. In addition, Coach Jim Swarzbach is my second cousin. About the time that I was old enough for Strake Jesuit, he had just completed a long and successful tenure at St. Anne’s Catholic School and was headed over to establish himself at St. Thomas. There, he would go on to become a long time successful coach of the Eagles. The men in my family wanted me to follow the Coach and he was the kind of guy a kid would do well to follow.”

But Dan wanted to be a Crusader, and he soon became one. “I loved Strake Jesuit from the start and I quickly came to be a fervent admirer of Mr. Neville, Father Thompson and Father Tynan. My Coaches were great too and I treasure fond memories of them and of my four years as Center on the football team.” The Schwarzbachs inevitably became a Jesuit family. Younger brother, Steve followed Dan to Jesuit and graduated in 1988. Then, years later and quite fittingly, son Sam earned his diploma in 2000. Dan’s sisters weren’t far away either.

All three attended Saint Agnes Academy right next door. “Ours is truly an SJ story”, admits Dan. “My mother Sandy worked at Jesuit and so did I. I ran security for the Olde Alma Mater for 18 years and that was really great because I was able to spend a lot of time on campus during my son Sam’s four years. Now, as time passes, the number of Jesuit or St. Agnes grads in the family continues to grow. My mother, my sisters and my daughter all went to Saint Agnes. I now have eleven nieces and nephews that have attended either one school or the other!”

After Jesuit, Dan concentrated on his goal of flying. He

28

recalls, “I looked at the military, but found that police work offered me a quicker and a more direct route to the end goal: flying. Besides that, I was always fascinated with police work – even as a kid.” So police work it would be. At the time, HPD did not employ the use of fixed wing aircraft so Dan learned to fly the “rotor-craft” or helicopters. Dan joined HPD in 1980 and has been a pilot since 1988. During his 28 years with the Air Support Division, he has logged 3800 hours of flight time. “I no longer fly routine patrol so I do not rack up the hours like I used to. But I do try to get off the ground at least once a week serving in a patrolman capacity.” Dan has been “kicked upstairs” and currently serves as Budget Coordinator and Purchasing Officer responsible for millions of dollars of expenditures each year. His duties as Senior Officer include government purchasing and contract oversight. Dan is responsible for fleet management which includes parts, maintenance, outside training and aircraft purchases.

“Another very rewarding aspect of my job is my work with the various airborne law enforcement associations, both domestic and foreign. This work has taken me far and wide and the travel has been a genuine treat. As a representative and one time President of the Airborne Law Enforcement Association, I was able to connect with and compare notes with other police organizations and other public safety aviators. The networking and the camaraderie that it has provided has been a joy and almost as much fun as flying.”

Dan’s current project is HPD’s new Bell 412EP, a tactical team insertion and extraction craft that holds up to 11 passengers. “We are training for rescue and fire fighting over land or water. The training has been physical and strenuous but so long as I have new challenges to tackle and new aircraft to explore, I am a happy man. At age 56 I am still engaged and I see many more interesting years remaining for me with the Houston Police Department Air Support Division.”

In support of the next young Schwarzbach to attend this school, I pledge my Shield and my Sword.

George

are you ready for

YOUR WEEKEND?

If this is YOUR Weekend, mark your calendars now for

October 4-6, 2013

and watch for details coming soon.

PARENTS, if you are still receiving your son’s Chronicle although he no longer lives with you, let us know so we can change our records and send the magazine directly to him. If you enjoy reading the publication but do not receive a copy of your own, let us know that too. We would be glad to send a copy to your son’s new address and continue to send you one.

Strake Jesuit College Preparatory 8900 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, Texas 77036

Contact the Alumni Office at tscalzitti@strakejesuit.org or at 713.490.8153

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

It’s not too late!

August 14

New Family Cookout

15-16 Freshman Orientation 16

Matriculation Day

17

Vow Day - Grand Coteau, Louisiana

19

Classes Begin

24

Orientation Dance

28

Follow Your Son’s Schedule

September 17

Parent-Teacher Meetings

October 3

Mass - Francis Borgia

4-6

Reunion Weekend

11

Homecoming Game

12

Homecoming Dance

16

Career Day Mother-Son Luncheon

17

Grandparents Day

ALL DATES ARE TENTATIVE AT TIME OF PUBLICATION For up to date event information, go to www.strakejesuit.org

Get your copy of the award-winning book that chronicles Strake Jesuit’s first 50 years before they are gone.

A VERY limited number of copies remain.

You can purchase online at www.strakejesuit.org or in the school’s Spirit Store in the Clay Center.