Aquila - Spring 2024

ROCHESTER CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Remembering Mr. Gene Eiden’s legacy of humor and harmony

And the

Band Pla ys On

PRESIDENT'S LETTER

Praise God for the springtime!

Growth is everywhere around us. Flowers are beginning to bloom and green has returned to the rolling hills of southeastern Minnesota. In our schools, the energy and excitement for spring is palpable. As educators, we love this time of year. We get a front row seat to witness students’ growth - both academic and spiritual.

Our students grow in their

relationship with God everyday, but it is so evident through the sacraments. Over the course of the year, our second graders prepare to receive their First Communion. In partnership with their parents, we see the light of Christ come alive in them as they receive Him in the Eucharist for the first time. As 10th graders, our students affirm their relationship with God and receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit through Confirmation. It is inspiring to accompany our students as they take ownership of their faith.

While assessments are an important tool for measuring academic growth, the best growth is demonstrated when students apply what they learn. This year, our middle school students showcased their Math growth in the Rochester Division of the Minnesota Junior High Math League placing first, second and fourth! Lourdes students demonstrated remarkable growth through their performances at the “Live at Lourdes” event hosted early this semester where students performed different musical numbers to raise funds for our Music programs.

Throughout the year, each student’s growth is fostered by our dedicated, best-in-class educators. Thank you to our alumni, parents and friends who make this growth possible through prayer, volunteer work and financial investment. Our students are blossoming and thriving!

Our Lady of Lourdes… pray for us!

Annemarie Vega President Rochester Catholic Schools

SHARE YOUR TIME AND TALENTS with RCS by joining a Committee or the Board of Trustees!

RCS welcomes individuals with a passion for Catholic education and expertise in Advancement/Fundraising, Marketing, or Finance to join our dynamic Board of Trustees or serve on one of our specialized committees. Your time and talents will help shape the future of our schools. Scan the QR code to take the first step in sharing your invaluable contributions with RCS today!

On the Cover: Gene Eiden surprises guests with a trumpet performance at the 2024 Lourdes Sports Hall of Fame.

(Photo Credit: Thom Belda) // Gene and Fran Eiden greet President Annemarie Vega and Father Tom Manahan, S.J., '72 Lourdes Marching Band pictured in background.

Band Pla ys On And the Remembering Mr. Gene Eiden’s legacy of humor and harmony

Written by Andrea Gibbs, Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis Freelance Writer

When your family and friends recount stories of your life, and their faces light up with smiles and laughter, it is a testament to a life well lived. Gene Eiden’s tenure as the outstanding band director at Lourdes High School for 38 years is widely celebrated. Today we delve deeper into this life, a life poured out to the benefit of others and the legacy Gene leaves behind.

Gene Albert Eiden was born July 6th, 1930 in Holdingford, Minnesota. He passed away at the age of 93, on December 24th, 2023, surrounded by his wife Frances (Fran), their three children, and 10 grandchildren. In the final hours of his life, Gene was able to articulate his contentment, sharing with his family, “Everything has been so perfect.”

Fran is grateful for that day with Gene, as their children and grandchildren sang together, read scripture, prayed, and of course, shared a final joke or two.

Reminiscing on their early years of marriage, Fran could not help but laugh out loud at the memories. She shared that when she got lost at a concert or event, she would pause and listen. Gene had a distinct laugh and laughed often which would help Fran in her search for her husband. She admits that his laugh and his smile are what originally caught her attention when they were dating back in Gene’s days as a student at St. John’s University, in Collegeville, Minnesota.

Peter Fourniea, a fellow SJU alumnus and the current choir director at Lourdes, had memories to share of Gene’s laughter as well. He recollected that Gene always had a joke in his back pocket. Even when he had told the same joke a number of times,

Gene and Frances Juliana Rassier celebrate their nuptials on June 27, 1953, at St. Columban Church in Littlefork, Minnesota.

Gene surprises guests with trumpet performance at the 2024 Lourdes Sports Hall of Fame.

“ Gene always gave every person he met a sense of dignity and respect, no matter who it was. He was also incredibly humble.”

Gene still laughed at the answer every time he told it, which made others laugh, too. Peter went on to share that, “Gene always gave every person he met a sense of dignity and respect, no matter who it was. He was also incredibly humble.”

A former student of Gene’s who later became a colleague at Lourdes, Helen Restovich '61, shares similar memories. Helen describes that, “Gene had a way of working with people that made them feel very valued. He appreciated your music, but he appreciated you, as an individual person even more than your music.” Helen saw Gene living out his Catholic faith as he would lead his band class in prayers and help his students be aware that life was a gift. Quoting scripture from 1 Peter, Chapter 4, she adds, “Gene lived out his faith by doing what Christ asked of all of us - that we use our gifts to serve one another.”

Gene’s impact extended far beyond the confines of the classroom, using his God-given gifts to

“ Gene lived out his faith by doing what Christ asked of all of us - that we use our gifts to serve one another.”

Gene performs at an alumni gathering.

Gene Eiden visits with Mike Lamberty at 1962 reunion.

Gene while serving as band director at Lourdes High School.

“ His sense of public service was truly ingrained in who he was and he shared that sense of service with every student he came to know.”

serve others. While his involvement in a wide range of ensembles touched many lives, it was his commitment to funeral ministry that left a lasting impression on so many in the Rochester community. Gene played taps for hundreds of veterans’ funeral services. Mary Ann Remick, a 1960 Lourdes grad and RCS benefactor, was touched by Gene’s constant yes to playing at funerals. She shared, “His sense of public service was truly ingrained in who he was and he shared that sense of service with every student he came to know.”

Mary Ann had both Gene and Fran Eiden as chaperones for the 1960 Lourdes trip to Washington, DC and remembers that, “Gene had only been at LHS for a few years but his willingness to provide positive and memorable experiences for students was evident even then.” Years later, as is the tradition with so many Lourdes alumni, Mary Ann was able to have her children attend Lourdes as well. She was grateful to have Gene as the band director for her children both in the marching band as well as the Hi-Lighters.

The ongoing success of the music programs at Lourdes is the legacy that many colleagues and students attribute to Gene. Peter Fourniea asserts, “Gene helped to put the music programs on the map at Rochester Catholic Schools, specifically the performing ensembles, and grew them into long-lasting and vibrant programs. I believe he laid the foundation for what we do today.” Still today, the jazz band is practicing and

“ I believe he laid the foundation for what we do today.”

Gene plays Taps as the VFW Whitlock-Sonnenberg Post 1215 lowers the American flag for the final time Sunday, May 13, 2018, on 6th Street Southwest in downtown Rochester. (Andrew Link / Post Bulletin)

Gene plays taps on Nov. 2, 2016, at the conclusion of a gathering to dedicate a new bench at the Veterans Memorial Honoring those who contributed to the Honor Flights to the World War II Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. (Scott Jacobson / Post Bulletin)

Gene was invited to the Lourdes Class of 1962's 60th Reunion celebration, where he performed the school song, and gave the class a tour of Lourdes!

“ His reach goes further than any one person can know.”

performing and the marching band is thriving. Having the Lourdes Marching Band perform in the Memorial Day parade, the tradition Gene so valued, continues.

Fran recalls that Gene had many offers to leave Lourdes over his decades of teaching; but he stayed because Gene knew that Lourdes was the place he was supposed to be. Fran shares, “Gene liked the atmosphere there. He enjoyed working with the students, and he had such a great career (at Lourdes).” Helen Restovich echoes Fran’s sentiments, emphasizing the strong sense of community at the school. “It was a real family at Lourdes. If someone needed help, everyone else was there for them.” Fran cherishes the time that Gene got to spend at Lourdes as their own three children came into the school as students. She hopes that the music department at Lourdes High School continues to thrive for years to come, so other students can participate in the classes her husband loved to teach.

“ He just had a way with people.”

Although the music department that Gene had devoted so much of his life to continues to thrive, his legacy runs deeper. As Peter Fourniea shared, “His reach goes further than any one person can

know.” After decades of mentoring teens, raising his family, and serving his community, it is beyond counting to measure the ripples Gene created. His supportive nature of his friends, family, colleagues, and students allowed them, in turn, to encourage others with joy. As Fran sums it up perfectly, saying, “He just had a way with people.”

Gene’s authentic love of life is his true legacy, teaching us to seek harmony in our lives and approach each day with a sense of gratitude.

Gene hugging Helen Restovich ‘61 at the 2024 Sports Hall of Fame, where he also surprised guests with a special trumpet performance.

Lourdes High School Marching Band performs in Rochester Memorial Day Ceremony (2022).

(L-R) - Gene Eiden, Sr. Ramona Miller, Denny Nigon ‘64, Mary Spring, Monsignor Jerry Mahon ‘63, Bishop Emeritus John Quinn, KTTC Anchor, Caitlin Alexander Roth '08, KTTC Photographer, Chuck Sibley ‘72

Soar

LOURDES HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH ST. MARY’S PARTNERSHIP

Students at Lourdes High School have the opportunity to soar even higher thanks to a partnership with Saint Mary’s University (SMU). SMU’s Program for Advanced College Credit (PACC) offers Lourdes Eagles the opportunity to take courses and earn college credit in the areas of Math, Biology, Theology, and English. Providing options for PACC courses on the Lourdes High School campus allows students to earn credits while still surrounded by their own peers and educators. Beginning fall semester of 2024, students will also have the opportunity to experience an exclusive on-site Environmental Biology Postsecondary Enrollment Option (PSEO) course with a full field experience lab at the Saint Mary’s Cascade Meadow campus.

Ms. Mary Spring, principal of Lourdes High School, said, “In partnership with Saint Mary’s University, we are providing an opportunity to offer a course selection that is rigorous and aligns with our Catholic values. We are blessed to be an extension of the Saint Mary’s community and thankful for further higher-level learning opportunities at Lourdes High School.”

Dr. Darren Row, former Lourdes High School teacher and current Dean of the John C. Parmer School of Sciences and the School of Arts & Humanities at Saint Mary’s University, said, “We are incredibly grateful for the role that Principal Mary Spring has taken as a strong advocate and principled leader. In fact, we would point to the commitment of SMU and Lourdes personnel to make not just college credit, but Catholic college credit in high school available and accessible to Lourdes students.”

PACC Overview

• Courses are offered to high school juniors and seniors who meet the course’s prerequisites.

• All syllabi are approved by a University professor in the course’s discipline.

• Provides an opportunity to earn college credit with a transcript from SMU by earning a C or better in the course. These credits are accepted by most colleges.

• SMU’s credits transfer to all higherlearning institutions in the state. If there is an issue with a college/university outside of Minnesota, SMU will work with the institution to transfer credits.

Brett Blattner, PACC Instructor at Lourdes High School, said, “The best part about high school, and especially what we offer at Lourdes, is the family-like environment we have in the building. For many other schools, students have to leave the building to earn college credits or even take them online with a self-paced schedule. With PACC, we can rely on the collaborative community within the classroom to explore topics on a deep level and keep everyone on track.”

Denise Sharrock-Mueller, Director of Early College Programs at Saint Mary’s University, said she believes the ‘sky is the limit’ when it comes to this incredible partnership.

Lourdes High School students can attest to the success of this partnership. Nixon, a current student at Lourdes High School, said he chose the PACC program because, “I wanted to take a more difficult class than the general English class. Mr. Blattner actually encouraged me to do it.” Caroline agreed and added, “I feel like we’re all in a mindset to do well in the class because we chose the more advanced class. It’s easy to work with each other because we’re all trying to get good grades, put in the effort, and get something significant out of the class.”

Brett Blattner, PACC Instructor at Lourdes High School and PACC students

Rochester Catholic Schools celebrated our teachers this May joining schools across the country for Teacher Appreciation Week, May 6-10, 2024.

During this time we invited supporters to make a gift to our educators. We also honored our staff celebrating milestones with RCS. What an incredible gift they give to our schools! Join us in thanking our teachers for their dedicated service. Gifts to the Fund for Academic Excellence will be accepted through May 30, 2024.

INVEST IN THE FUTURE OF RCS!

I’m blessed to be serving Rochester Catholic Schools and the Lourdes Foundation. What a joy during my first year to be meeting with alumni, families and supporters who all want to ensure the future of our schools! I love hearing each story while I put together the history of our schools and am proud of the progress we are making toward our fundraising goals.

Your gifts for the future are incredible! As we come to the close of our 2023-24 school year, I invite you to help us reach our final budgetary needs for the year with a gift of support. All of our supporters are listed online at rcsmn.org/supportrcs/2022-2023-donor-listing. Review the list for last year’s supporters and be sure your name can be added next year!

Please reach out to me to share your story, set up a recurring gift, establish a scholarship, or become a member of the Eagles Legacy Society with a planned gift.

Blessings, Mindy Reeder, mreeder@rcsmn.org

$150,000 END OF YEAR Challenge

Help us raise an additional $150,000 by June 30, 2024 to ensure RCS Eagles soar to new heights!

Make a gift by scanning the QR code!

Pics and Posts SCHOOL YEAR

Lourdes High School’s girls basketball team concluded their successful season winning the Consolation Championship at the State Tournament! Sophomore standout Lauren Hust led the team with 13 points in their impressive victory over New London-Spicer.

Faculty, staff, families and friends gathered for our musical extravaganza, Live at Lourdes! The Lourdes Hi-Lighters, Lourdes Center Street Singers, and vocal and instrumental solos and ensembles put on a fantastic show!

Students and staff from RCS campuses traveled to Washington, D.C. for the March of Life and Expo! They started the day at Mary Mother of God Catholic Church, where Fr. Churchill led a beautiful Mass sharing testimonials from people choosing life. They then embarked upon the March for Life near the State Capitol. It was a wonderful and faith-filled learning opportunity for students!

We are blessed to feature ways our students give back to the community!

• Local media loved featuring The Nest Preschoolers and their annual service project of crafting warm winter hats to donate to students in need! The project is thanks to the hard work of Mrs. Margi Newkirk, Ms. Robin Erickson and The Nest staff!

• In addition, St. Francis of Assisi’s special delivery of cards to firefighters was also featured by local media.

• The Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist’s Student Council also gave back to their communities as they presented funds raised during their CSW Penny Wars to the Gift of Life Transplant House.

We began our Lenten journey with Ash Wednesday. Students, faculty, staff, and members of our community came together to receive ashes at Mass.

Our Eagles soared through 100 days of school! On this milestone day, students enjoyed special activities, treats, PLUS the Kindergartners at

X dressed up as 100-year-olds!

Holy Spirit Teacher Jen Good was nominated for the 20232024 Outstanding Educator Award through Southeast Cooperative. This nomination honors teachers who strive for high levels of STEM excellence in the classroom. We are incredibly blessed she is part of RCS!

to our incredibly supportive community,

and

In February, we celebrated I Love to Read month across our campuses! At St. Pius X, guest readers were invited into classrooms, a tradition cherished by students! These surprise guests brought joy and enthusiasm as they shared their favorite stories in our classrooms. We welcomed numerous family members, faculty, staff, RCS President Annemarie Vega, KTTC-TV Journalist and Author Caitlin Alexander, and Rochester Mayor Kim Norton!

To see ALL of the fun from this school year, follow us on Facebook and Instagram! @ROCHESTERCATHOLICSCHOOLS

Students at St. Pius X eagerly showed off their hard work at the Science Fair, making for a memorable end to the second quarter of school. Judges and parents alike were impressed by the erupting volcanoes, dancing raisins, floating eggs, and more!

St. Pius

Thanks

we exceeded our Day of Giving goals

students enjoyed celebrating with their school’s incentives.

We SOARED Past our $100,000 Day of Giving Goal Thanks to Your Support!

Thanks to the generous support of the RCS community, we SOARED past our $100,000 goal on Day of Giving - raising a remarkable total of $129,870. In addition, your support enabled us to unlock our five school matches AND a $10,000 BONUS match at Lourdes - gifted in honor of Lourdes’ 10-year anniversary. Each school enjoyed a special incentive for unlocking their match.

These funds will be put to great use, benefiting several important school initiatives focused on: literacy, fine arts, facilities, and much more. Your contribution is making a meaningful impact in the lives of our students, and we thank you for your generosity!

Catholic

Schools

Week

was a GREAT SUCCESS!

In addition to surpassing our Day of Giving goal, our community participated in a number of other events during Catholic Schools Week!

On Jan. 28, families “packed the pews” at our RCS Parishes, and enjoyed a tasty pancake breakfast after Masses at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Families were invited to dine in or out at Sorellina’s Italian Restaurant, and students enjoyed special dress up days throughout the week.

What a blessed week in celebration of our schools, faith, mission, and YOUour community!

President’s Reception

We experienced a record turnout at our annual President’s Reception event, held in culmination of Catholic Schools Week!

RCS Community Event ROUN D PU

The reception took place on Friday, Feb. 2 at the Hilton Hotel, where close to 300 attendees enjoyed a night of faith and fellowship, entertainment by Trio Jazz Rochester, a 360 degree photo booth, and a special ceremony dedicated to six exceptional community members. Award winners included:

• Make a Difference Award - Margi Newkirk

• Everyday Hero - Erin (Lane) Cook '02 and Michael Cook '02

• St. Joseph Award - Maureen Sherman

• Alumni Award - Kiersten J. Bretton-Billmeier '93

• President’s Award - Kevin Broadbent and Dr. Tufia Haddad ‘91

• Woodruff Award - Rosalie Vondrashek

Thank you to all who attended and made the reception possible!

Make a Difference AwardMargi Newkirk

We’d also like to extend our gratitude to our sponsors: Beckley’s Office Products, J. Powers, Premier Bank Minnesota, Saint Mary’s University, Citrusy Boutique, and Davies Printing Company.

Lourdes Foundation Fish Fry

Once again, the Lourdes Foundation Fish Fry proved to be an overwhelming success, selling out for yet another year!

Close to 400 attendees took part in a delicious fish dinner on Friday, March 8 at the Rochester International Event Center, where they enjoyed a raffle, silent auction, children’s activities, a performance by the Lourdes Hi-Lighters and fellowship! A special thanks to all who made the Fish Fry a great success!

Everyday HeroErin (Lane) Cook ‘02 and Michael Cook ‘02

President’s AwardKevin Broadbent and Dr. Tufia Haddad ‘91

Alumni AwardKiersten J. Bretton-Billmeier ‘93

Rosalie Vondrashek pictured with KC Reed, Lourdes Foundation President.

St. Joseph AwardMaureen Sherman

Questions? For more information, visit: https://eagleathleticsbc.wildapricot.org

Date Sunday, October 6, 2024

Location

Reunion Revival

Upcoming Reunions

Information about upcoming reunions and photos from past reunions are also posted on the RCS Alumni Reunion webpage at rcsmn.org/reunions. If your class is planning a reunion, please contact us at alumni@rcsmn.org. We are happy to supply a class list, schedule a Mass and tour at Lourdes High School, and include your information on our webpage.

Lourdes Class of 2014 • 10th Reunion Celebration

Saturday, June 8 - 6:30 p.m. at the Tap House - historic downtown location on 3rd Contact: Sofia Terzic with questions at sofiamterzic@gmail.com.

Lourdes Class of 2004 • 20th Reunion Celebration

All 2004 class members and their plus one are invited to celebrate 20 years!

Saturday, September 21 at the Hilton in Rochester

5:00 PM Social Hour; 6:00 PM Dinner - $50 per guest Questions, email Andrew Nigon at: nigonad@yahoo.com.

Register by scanning the QR code to the right!

Lourdes Class of 1974 • 50th Reunion Celebration

Friday, September 20 at Whistle Binkies on the Lake - 5:00 pm. Light appetizers provided, food and beverages available for purchase.

Saturday, September 21

• Mass in the Lourdes Chapel at 10 a.m. followed by brunch. School tours available.

• Golf Outing - Soldiers Field (Time TBD) - organized by Kevin Lawler.

• Social/Dinner at River Park Reception Center - Cost $75

5 p.m. Social; 6:30 p.m. Dinner (Catered by Pinnacle) *Gluten and vegetarian options

Cash bar (no ATM)

Reunion Contact and RSVP: Carmen Kane - carmenkane4029@gmail.com

Lourdes Class of 1969 • 55th Reunion Celebration

Friday, July 12 & Saturday, July 13

Learn more at https://www. rcsmn.org/reunions or scan the QR code!

July 12 - Mary Beth Farm Gathering - 4 p.m.; July 13 - Additional events either at Northern Hills or Willow Creek. Please call with questions: Jan Manahan - 507.250.1646

IN MEMORIAM

We are honored to remember our beloved alumni who have entered into eternal rest. We will do our best to include any recent notices of which we are made aware. Please email obituary information to alumni@rcsmn.org.

Donna Arnold '53

Phyllis Mae Alcott (Zimmerman) '53

Bryan T. Baker '96

Marie Boler '49

Rosalie Canfield (Pintaudi) '50

Jeremiah “Jerry” Chase '58

Laurie A. Daniels '56

William L. Fischer '52

Robert Fredrickson '88

Janith P. Fuller '59

David Griffin '67

Lisa Hindermann '94

Thomas Kennedy '73

Emiliano Kosnopfal '20

Philip J. LaPlante '71

David Charles Marquardt '55

Janet “Jan” McCoy '53

Michelle Nietz '65

Abbie L. Pannkuk (Fleischman) '01

Sandra Schommer '08

James “Jim” Stelley '80

Elaine Stettler '54

Jon A. Theobald '63

Paula Waskewicz '66

ALUMNI Class Notes

We are excited to feature the following RCS alums as part of our Alumni Class Notes feature section! To share your story with us, email alumni@rcsmn.org.

Alex Kapraun '11 was inducted into the St. Thomas University Athletic Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023 for his college golf performance.

Alex Kapraun was a three-sport standout at Lourdes in football, basketball and golf. He was also an active member in the National Honor Society, beginning his Rochester Catholic Schools experience at Holy Spirit Catholic School.

After graduating from Lourdes, Alex attended the University of St. Thomas and majored in Actuarial Science. He graduated Summa Cum Laude in his major with a Math minor. On the golf team, he received three times, the second team AllAmerican and an Honorable Mention All-American recognition. He had the best finish as a team at the National Championship in 12th place and took 13th place, individually. Alex currently works for W.R. Berkley Corporation, where he serves as Vice President, Chief Actuary of the Public Entity. He resides in Pennsylvania with his wife, Elizabeth Kapraun. Together they are raising two amazing girls who bring so much joy to their lives, Abby (2) and Lucy (8 months).

“Rochester Catholic Schools had a great effect on my life spiritually, personally and professionally,” Alex shared. “I received an amazing education from the teachers and coaches who really cared about me as a student and for my present and future wellbeing.” He felt that the school system prepared him well to succeed in college and beyond.

He also continues to play golf and aspires to take on more responsibility in his career. He and his wife may return to Minnesota but are presently taking life one step at a time and letting God guide their path.

Julia Cordes '19 was selected as Visual Caption Head for the River City Rhythm Drum Corps. Julia attended St. Francis of Assisi and Lourdes High School, where she was active in marching band, jazz band, winter drumline, track & field, swim & dive, math league, and debate. She attended St. Olaf College and majored in Mathematics, with concentrations in statistics & data science, gender & sexuality studies, and mathematical biology. During the summer, she has assisted as an instructor for the Lourdes Marching Band every year since she graduated from Lourdes.

Outside of school, she had the opportunity to continue her marching arts journey while traveling and performing with two Midwest-based drum and bugle corps (dci.org): River City Rhythm (RCR) and Phantom Regiment. Julia presently works for the Mayo Clinic in Rochester as a statistical programmer and feels her life was inspired by her years of education at RCS.

“At RCS I was surrounded by hard working, passionate students and staff that encouraged me to go after my goals,” Julia shared. Julia looks forward to continuing to be involved in the marching arts while also exploring possibilities in the world of statistics and data science.

Joseph Sperry '22 was signed to play D1 baseball at University of South Carolina-Lancaster. During the spring games at the University, Joseph hit six home runs and is tied for the national lead in

home runs at the collegiate level. On average, he is hitting .556 with 16 RBIs and three doubles.

In classes at the University of South Carolina, Joseph is studying Kinesiology and considering further studies in Physical Therapy. We invite you to join us this summer in cheering Joseph on at the Honkers’ home games. Let’s fill the stands at the July 21st game. All alumni who register will receive free Eagles socks at the game! We want all RCS Alumni and Supporters to cheer on Joseph!

David Joswick '61 took the mission of service to others to heart after he graduated from Lourdes High School. When his son passed away on June 21, 1986, his life changed dramatically. Through his own grieving process he discovered that he wanted to do something more to help others grieving the death of a child.

David joined forces with the newly formed board of New Hope for Kids, and helped make the organization what it is today. For the past 30 years he has served at New Hope for Kids as the Executive Director.

At his retirement party, David was presented with a painting and informed that their new grief center would be dedicated in his honor - “The David C. Joswick Center for Grieving Children.”

Congratulations to Eagle David Joswick ‘61!

Teresa Thein '87 serves as the chief Business Administrator at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Proud to serve in Catholic education, Teresa recently attended a conference with her school principal at Annunciation, Kari Zobel, in Florida in partnership with the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence (CSCOE). Paul Thein '84, her brother, also attended this conference, pictured below.

“The commitment of the teachers - to know their students personally and their dedication to the teaching profession, had a lasting impact on me,” Teresa said. She especially thanks teachers: Sister Audrey, Sister Sean at St. Francis and Madame Thompson at Lourdes.

(Naples Florida) (L to R):  Dr. Mark Dienhart, President of the Schulz Foundation, stands with Paul Thein ‘84, with Kate (Nigon) Dienhart ‘71, married to Mark Dienhart.

Teresa received her college degree from University of St. Thomas. She has raised four adults who make her “proud every single day by the people they have become.” She shared that nothing has brought her greater joy than raising her children. Additionally, Teresa is proud of her work at Annunciation Catholic Church. Since Lourdes, Teresa feels that her new church community has continued to nurture her spiritually for the past 20 years. Thanks for your continued commitment to Catholic education, Teresa!

Dave pictured with the painting of the New Hope for Kids Grief Center, to be named in his honor.

(L to R) Kari Zobel, Annunciation Principal pictured with Teresa Thein '87.

A Message from Lourdes Foundation President,

KC Reed

I’m happy to announce that Lourdes Foundation is 50 years old. The first event celebrating our noteworthy anniversary was the President’s Reception. I can’t help but think that those with the vision to begin the Foundation back in 1974, would be smiling looking down on us now - seeing the incredibly successful organization we have become.

This month, Lourdes Foundation will be sending close to $400,000 to Rochester Catholic Schools. This is thanks to our 143 fully endowed scholarships. Speaking of dollars, Lourdes Foundation just crossed over the $11 million threshold in assets. Our next big push will be trying to secure the 15 class scholarships not yet fully funded. This list is on our website and here in Aquila. If your class is listed, please spread the word with your classmates! Additionally, all scholarship gifts are welcome.

I would also like to extend a warm Lourdes Foundation THANK YOU for helping us sell out for yet another year at the Fish Fry! The community is still abuzz with sentiments of how enjoyable it was for them. Not only was it a sell out again, but we increased our attendance by 22%. Thank you for supporting this event.

Last, I’d like to congratulate our Lourdes Foundation award winners, recognized at the President’s Reception: Rosalie Vondrasek, our Woodruff Award recipient, Kevin Broadbent and his wife Dr. Tufia Haddad '91, our President’s Award recipients, and Kiersten J Bretton-Billmeier '93, our Alumni Award recipient. What an amazing group of Lourdes Foundation faithfuls!

Finally, we are looking for someone with an accounting background to join the Lourdes Foundation Board. If you are interested or would like more information about establishing a family scholarship, feel free to contact me at kcreed74@charter.net or by phone at 507-259-7003.

I did not use AI to produce this letter.

KC Reed

UNDERFUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS:

Please support our underfunded scholarships with a donation today !

Newly Awarded Scholarships for 2023-24 School Year

Colin Halleland Memorial Scholarship

Peter & Darci Kopischke Family Scholarship

Class of 1972 Scholarship

Bishop Harrington Scholarship

Robert Haggerty Scholarship Scholarships for 2024-25 School Year

Michael and Barbara Berens Scholarship

Dr. Paul Morgan Memorial Scholarship

Steve and Sharon Nigon Family Scholarship

Richard and Shirley Sonsalla Scholarship

Myron Glass Memorial Scholarship

Glenn A. Anderson/Margaret H. Anderson Scholarship

Newly Established Funds/Scholarships During 2023-24 school year

Richard and Shirley Sonsalla Scholarship

Conway Building our Future Fund

Ethan M. Smith Memorial Aviation Scholarship

Lourdes Foundation Endowment Provides Endowment Total: $11.7 million

Tuition Assistance

$ Provided by Lourdes Foundation: $370,032

Total Scholarships Awarded: 143

LFI Endowments

Conway Building Our Future Endowment

Lourdes High School Theater Endowment

Lourdes High School

Music Endowment

O’Shaughnessy Reading Program Enhancement Endowment

1710 INDUSTRIAL DRIVE NW ROCHESTER, MN 55901 FOLLOW US ON

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Contact us at info@rcsmn.org or 507.424.1817

Mark your calendars for upcoming opportunities to support RCS in the 2024-2025 school year! Please contact advancement@rcsmn.org with any questions or visit rcsmn.org/makeagift if you’d like to give today!