Rock News Spring 2022

THE ROCK NEWS

COMPETENCE, CONSCIENCE, AND COMPASSION.

LEADERS FOR LIFE

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Table of Contents A Word from the President Laurence Freeman '82 Concludes Storied Service to Rockhurst Ray Evans '78 Celebrated as Alumnus of the Year (Re)Introducing the Annual Fund Spectacular Auction Supports Tuition Assistance Sports Hall of Fame Classes Inducted Young Alumni Lead Successful Events

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School Enjoys Campus Improvements A Word from the Principal Red Bridge YMCA Becomes Goppert Rock Plex Seniors Earn Hispanic Development Fund Scholarships Students Live Out Jesuit Ideals in the Community National Merit Finalists Recognized Hawklets Excel in Co-Curricular Activities Athletics Continue Legacy of Success

Ed McGurren '55 Leaves Legacy of Alumni Stewardship Former Teacher Takes Final Vows Alumni Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro Alumni Accomplishments Alumni Marriages, Births, Deaths

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF GOVERNORS Mr. Frank C. Allen '05 President

Mr. Thomas P. Knox '88 Chairman, Enrollment

Mr. Ivan L. Nugent '99 At-Large Member, DEI Advisor

Mr. Patrick A. McInerney '82 President-Elect

Frank C. Reardon, CPA '07 Chairman, Special Events

Mr. Spencer H. Hardwick '07 Secretary, DEI Advisor

Mr. James T. Van Dyke '05 Chairman, Charitable Giving

Mr. James C. Shay, Jr. '11 At-Large Member, Special Events Committee Member

Mr. Gerald W. Brenneman '78 Chairman, Nominating Committee

Mr. James H. Maggard '04 At-Large Member, Special Events Committee Member

This publication includes updates from February 2021 through April 2022.

Future editions will be published in October and May each year.

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DEAR ROCKHURST COMMUNITY, How many of us remember mathematics multiplication tables from our earliest math studies?

Multiplication. Compounding.

These concepts, found in the very nature of mathematics, were a fundamental observation of St. Ignatius of Loyola, when, in the early days of Jesuits choosing to open and work in schools, he was praying and reflecting on how Jesuit schools could contribute to the “greater good."

A part of that discernment was to identify how Jesuit schools could accomplish what St. Ignatius called the “multiplier effect."

In December of 1551, St. Ignatius wrote: “From among those who are now merely students, in time some will depart to play diverse roles - one to preach and carry St. Ignatius Loyola on the care of souls, another to government of the land and the administration of justice, and others to other callings. Finally, since young boys become grown men, their good education in life and doctrine will be beneficial to many others, with the fruit expanding more widely every day.”

“COMPETENCE, CONSCIENCE, AND COMPASSION. THESE CHARACTERISTICS, OFTEN USED TO DESCRIBE A JESUIT EDUCATION, ARE FOUNDATIONAL TO LEADERSHIP.”

Competence, conscience, and compassion.

These characteristics, often used to describe a Jesuit education, are foundational to leadership. And, leadership is required if the ‘common good’ of our world is to be positively impacted by those with a Jesuit education.

A Jesuit education is used through oneself in service to others, with a special emphasis for those most in need.

sophomores. Each year, our sophomores prepare a presentation for their parents and a set of teachers we entitle the “Sophomore Reflections." It asks a young man to consider his growth during his first two years at Rockhurst from a variety of perspectives: academic, activities, faith, and service. Then, he stands in the front of a room, and with the aid of a technological presentation, tells the important adults in his life "how it’s going."

What’s most often shared with me about these reflections from the perspective of parents, is the holistic way in which their son considers his life’s development, followed closely by how articulately he is able to express this growth. The entire process involves introspection combined with developing presentation skills.

There are many parts of the whole we can focus on in a Rockhurst education: test scores, grade point averages, championships, and accolades. And, while our students do themselves and the school proud with their accomplishments, St. Ignatius himself would invite us not to have our lives be focused on riches and fame. Instead, for leadership to flourish, one uses those individual measures of achievement and places them at the service of something greater – their gifts as a total human person made in God’s image and likeness.

And, for leadership for the common good, this holistic approach, which places individual skills and data points as subordinate, a Rockhurst education takes seriously how to form leaders.

Such leadership is reflected in alumni across a spectrum of endeavors in our society: husbands, fathers, priests, civic leaders, business leaders, educational leaders, neighborhood leaders, parish leaders, etc.

Imitating Christ as servant leaders, we remain humbly in awe of our students' desired formation to this end; we remain grateful to our faculty and staff working to form these young men in our tradition, and we remain grateful to you, our alumni, parents, and friends, for establishing a great leadership tradition at Rockhurst and for supporting the young men we serve today.

In reflecting upon the progression of our school year, it is humbling to see this approach to formation followed so sincerely by our students.

GOD BLESS,

This school year, I’ve had the privilege of hearing from a good number of parents of our

DAVID J. LAUGHLIN | PRESIDENT ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

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Donning his standard bowtie, Laurence Freeman '82 arrived at the Rev. Mario Puricelli, SJ, Alumni Spaghetti Dinner on Nov. 11, 2021 as he had done every year for two-plus decades. But the 2021 event would also honor another true Rockhurst man: LAURENCE FREEMAN. In the August Alumni E-Newsletter, Freeman announced to his fellow alumni that he would conclude his service to Rockhurst High on Dec. 31, after 27 years of service. He wrote: What a privilege it has been to serve the Rockhurst High School community for almost 27 years.

Our wonderful alumni, faculty and staff, parents, and donors have always given me such faith that anything is possible when we work together. The collective care for our students’ well-being and formation never wavered for a second. Every face I see now is a cherished memory and heartfelt keepsake to treasure for a lifetime.

I love Rockhurst High School and its Jesuit mission. My sincere hope is everyone who shares those beliefs will keep The Rock’s future in focus. More than ever, “Our School” forms amazing young men who can understand themselves, Christ, and the world around them as educated Christian leaders who really do change the world. The school’s future has never been brighter!

Hired by Rockhurst as the Executive Director of Development and Alumni Affairs in 1994, Freeman would serve

under four presidents in roles that included Assistant to the President and Chief Advancement Officer.

Across his 27 years, Rockhurst created new physical facilities, academic programs, expanded spiritual Masses and offerings and awarded tens of millions of dollars in scholarship assistance. Each of these has been supported directly and indirectly by Freeman’s personal efforts working with donors, partners, and the Province.

To honor Freeman and his work as he and his wife, Susan, began the next chapter of their life story, Rockhurst announced the LAURENCE WADE FREEMAN MAN FOR OTHERS SCHOLARSHIP created to serve current and future Hawklets by the grace of Laurence’s enduring legacy.

As of press time, 257 donors have give nearly $316,000 to the scholarship.

“Other than my marriage to Susan, and the birth of our children, Shannen and Laurence, Jr., the time, energy, and charitable investment so many friends made to the fund in my name at Rockhurst High School was the most humbling thing that has happened in my life,” reflected Freeman. “My gratitude to each and every donor is immeasurable. These vital resources will change lives in perpetuity by giving future young men the opportunity to enjoy the Jesuit formation that has so deeply touched my family. The spirit so strongly present at the Spaghetti Dinner was the same camaraderie we enjoyed every time an event was hosted by the Alumni Association.

Rockhurst High School alumni are the best men in the world. I love each and every one of them.”

Many of these alumni made sure to attend the 2021 Spaghetti Dinner in honor of Freeman. During the event, Frank Allen '05, president of the Alumni Board of Governors, spoke about Freeman’s impact on Rockhurst. He noted the following accomplishments during Freeman’s tenure.

When Freeman arrived at Rockhurst in 1994, the school’s tuition assistance budget was $300,000 annually; in the 2021-22 school year, Rockhurst provided more than $2.7 million in assistance. The school’s investment portfolio had a negative balance in 1994; it currently sits at more than $40 million. In total, since Freeman began his great work at the school, Rockhurst has raised more than $77 million from over 20,000 donors.

“It’s through his efforts to help grow this financial support that Laurence has impacted the lives of so many who otherwise would not have had the Rockhurst experience,” remarked Allen. “Laurence has given students, the alumni, and the broader Rockhurst community a very real and a very lasting example of what it means to live as a ‘man for others.'"

LAURENCE FREEMAN '82 CONCLUDES STORIED SERVICE TO ROCKHURST

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ey∙rie (/'irē/) n. the nest of a hawk on a cliff or a mountaintop

(RE)INTRODUCING THE ANNUAL FUND

Ray Evans '78 Celebrated as Alumnus of the Year The Rockhurst High School National Alumni Association Executive Committee honored Ray Evans '78 as its Alumnus of the Year. Evans accepted the award during the school’s Homecoming Mass on September 28, 2021.

“It would be hard to find someone who exemplifies Jesuit ideals more than Ray Evans,” said Andrew Stafford, Sr. '93, Former President of the Alumni Executive Committee. “Ray always thinks about other people when he does something or talks to someone.

He shows that he understands and cares about other people’s problems.

He is honest, sincere, and genuine.”

Evans has shown a steadfast commitment to Rockhurst High School and Catholic causes for more than 40 years. He was Chairman of the Rockhurst High School Board of Trustees from 2000 to 2002 and has served on numerous special committees, before and after that time including as a member of the search committee that selected Coach Kelly Donohoe in 2019. Evans and

his wife, Sarah, have always been generous donors to Rockhurst High School. They established the Evans Family Scholarship Fund in 2012 and have faithfully built it ever since.

relationship-building ethical standard that views people as more than clients. Evans sees his work as a ministry, faithfully nurtured for God’s greater honor and glory.

“It is very humbling to receive recognition from a place that has made such a positive and dramatic influence in my life,” Evans reflected. “So many good things that have happened to me and to our family are due to the education, character formation, and lifelong tight friendships developed through my time at Rockhurst.

“Ray was a leader for our class during our high school days together, and he continued that proven leadership for Rockhurst in many important roles as an alumnus,” said Gerald Brenneman '78, member of the Alumni Executive Committee and Class Captain. “Ray just simply loves Rockhurst, as always demonstrated in his words and deeds, and he is one of the nicest and most unselfish people I know. He is very deserving of the Alumnus of the Year honor and the Class of 1978 is very proud of him for all that he has done.”

“I am eternally grateful for The Rock, and I’m so appreciative of its role in the formation of young men in Kansas City,” Evans continued. “Certainly, Rockhurst has been life-changing for me.”

There is a very personal approach to the way Evans conducts himself that shows a commitment to being Christ-like in his life, both privately and professionally. He is the founder of Pegasus Capital Management, which is devoted to an individualized

Evans was named to the 2019 and 2020 editions of the Financial Times’ 400 Top Financial Advisors, which recognizes top advisers at national, independent, regional and bank broker-dealers from across the United States. He steadfastly supports the mission of the University of Kansas and currently serves as

a trustee on the board of the KU Endowment. His many other areas of service for the University includes the advisory boards for KU’s Edwards campus; the KU Medical Center Cancer Partners; and past chairman of the National Board of Directors for University of Kansas Alumni Association. Evans was honored with the Ellsworth Medallion Award by the KU Alumni Association for all his work for the university in 2015.

Beyond Rockhurst High School and the University of Kansas, Evans also supports many charitable organizations, including Catholic Education Foundation, Higher Impact and the Keith Worthington Chapter of the ALS Association.

Evans earned his Bachelor of Science in business and an MBA from the University of Kansas. The Evans have three children, including their son Jack, who graduated from Rockhurst High School in 2015.

Please make your gift to the Eyrie Fund today.

Long-known as "the Annual Fund," the newly-named Eyrie Fund represents all that takes place each year to educate and form our Hawklets, preparing them to learn, grow, and soar from our Rockhurst nest.

The Eyrie Fund supports every facet of your student’s experience at Rockhurst. Even for those families paying full tuition, the Eyrie Fund comes into play, as tuition does not cover the full cost of a Rockhurst education and formation. In fact, the gap is approximately $2,500 per student left uncovered.

Add to that nearly $3 million in financial assistance provided to families so that all who are able to gain admission can likewise enroll, and you’ll know why President David Laughlin quips that each year begins with a “$5 million act of faith” for uncovered operating costs.

It’s your gift to the Eyrie Fund that bridges that $5 million gap between cost and the life-changing experience delivered to each Hawklet. Thus, when you support the Eyrie Fund, you are directly supporting students: your gift is their present…and their future, for the knowledge, experiences, and connections they will receive at The Rock!

Beyond what you provide for students when you make a gift to the Eyrie Fund, gifts to the fund are tax deductible (to the extent allowable by law).

So there’s even a little something in it for you as you enable this transformative experience for your son and his brothers.

Simply put: your generous support of the Eyrie Fund is foundational, year by year. And year by year the return on your investment grows, as young Hawklets become and remain “men for others” and leaders well beyond our walls.

Lest you think this is biased, consider the words of a local businessman who sought the assistance of Rockhurst students in early 2022: I’m writing this note to thank you…The manners and work ethic they showed were beyond their young years. I can’t begin to tell you how impressed I was by them and the full time stadium staff were complimenting them well into the week following…I wish each one of them the best in the years following and know that they all will be successful in any endeavor they choose. Thank you to all involved for leading those gentlemen down the path of greatness. ­— Tucker Brown, Director of Operations Arrowhead Stadium

Pictured left to right: President David Laughlin, Sarah Evans, Ray Evans '78 and President-elect of the National Alumni Association, Pat McInerney '82.

Rockhurst students are led down the path of greatness. It’s your financial support of the Eyrie Fund that paves the way.

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SPECTACULAR AUCTION SUPPORTS TUITION ASSISTANCE For the first time in three years, Rockhurst High School was able to host its annual Spectacular auction as an in-person celebration. It was forced to be a livestreamed virtual event in both 2020 and 2021.

Returning to an in-person gathering, the co-chairs decided on the theme “Rock United.” More than 500 alumni, current and past parents, and friends of Rockhurst gathered for Spectacular on April 9, 2022.

The evening consisted of a cocktail hour with live violin played by Carmen Dieker, dinner, silent and live auctions, live music by Wonderfuzz, and raising funds for the tuition assistance program at Rockhurst.

Nearly 50% of all families rely on financial aid to make the Rockhurst experience possible for their sons.

The school committed $2.7 million in assistance for the 2021-22 year, and the proceeds from Spectacular account for about half of that. At print time, gross proceeds have surpassed $1.4 million and are still growing!

The 2022 Spectacular co-chair couples between Rev. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ (far left) and David Laughlin (far right): John & Whitney Sojka, Lisa & Mark Hallier, Shannon & Patrick Lillis, and Amy & Scott Francois.

“Spectacular is important to Rockhurst on so many levels!” said Moira Kelly Healy, Director of Engagement. “Most importantly, alumni parents, past parents and friends unite to raise funds that enable students to attend Rockhurst regardless of their families’ economic circumstances."

“An army of parents and student volunteers work tirelessly to produce the event and transform our school into an elegant event space.

Listening to the moms and dads work and chat for the benefit of the boys is heartwarming. Uniting for the first time in three years, coming together ‘for the boys’ while acting as ‘men and women for others’ benefits our entire community.”

The annual success of Spectacular is attributed to the efforts of countless sponsors, underwriters, volunteers, item donors, attendees, and especially the co-chair couples.

The 2022 co-chairs were Amy & Scott Francois, Lisa & Mark Hallier, Shannon & Patrick Lillis, and Whitney & John Sojka. Their selflessness and leadership in spearheading the event will aid many current and future Hawklet families.

Rockhurst also thanks Chris Igoe '93 and Heartland Chevrolet for again donating a new Trailblazer for the car raffle.

To see and hear from some of the students who benefit from tuition assistance, watch the 2022 Spectacular Fund-A-Future video at www.rockhursths.edu/future and please consider making a gift.

Scan to see how your support can Fund-A-Future.

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SPORTS HALL OF FAME

MEMBERS INDUCTED Rockhurst Sports Hall of Fame members were celebrated on Oct. 1, 2021. Pictured with (middle) Rev. Vincent Giacabazi, David Laughlin, Larry Ruby, and Michael Dierks ’91: (left side) Coach Chris Lawson, Aaron Clevinger ’00, Doug Albers ’93, Ted Brooks ’93, Jim Houtson ’82; (right side) Sam Davidson ’01, Sean O’Donnell ’01, Tim Reidy ’02, Dan Boyd ’03, Tony Temple ’04, and Kevin Sears ’03.

During the Alumni Reunion Weekend over Oct. 1-2, 2021, Rockhurst High School honored two classes of inductees. Given Rockhurst’s storied heritage of sporting excellence in the Midwest, selection to the Sports Hall of Fame means recognition among the “best of the best” in Midwestern athletic history.

Honorees are determined by a Selection Committee that reviews nominations by Alumni Class Captains, as well as recommendations from the public at large, before submitting a slate to the Rockhurst president for his approval.

COACH JOHN MORRIS '74

TIM REIDY '02

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Football, basketball, track & field coach since 1984

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Three-year starting defender in lacrosse

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Helped lead football team to 332 wins and 6 State Titles

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Led team to State Final Four all three years

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JV basketball coaching record of 482-120

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All-Conference, All-State, and All-American in 2002

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JV football coaching record of 167-6, including 71-game win streak

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Program head coach since 2012, record of 130-47

SAM DAVIDSON '01 •

Three-time All-Metro and All-State in tennis

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Member of three team State Championships

The 2020 class included Jim Houston '82 (football), Ted Brooks '93 (football), Doug Albers '93 (golf), Jon Osgood '97 (tennis), Aaron Clevinger '00 (lacrosse), Matt Jewett '00 (soccer), John Mayberry, Jr. '02 (baseball), Will John '03 (soccer), and Coach Chris Lawson (soccer).

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Doubles State Champ in 1999, singles State Champ in 2001

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Postseason record of 36-1

DAN BOYD '03 •

Two-year starter at offensive tackle

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Record of 22-2; perfect 13-0 senior season

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Offense averaged 37 points per game

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All-District, All-Metro, AllState in 2001 and 2002

SEAN O’DONNELL '01

KEVIN SEARS '03

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Led cross country team to first State qualification in 16 years

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Recorded 71 tackles and 6 INTs as junior linebacker

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All-State individually, placing 14th

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The 2021 class included John Morris '74 (coach), Sam Davidson '01 (tennis), Sean O’Donnell '01 (cross country/track), Kevin Kane '02 (football), Tim Reidy '02 (lacrosse), Dan Boyd '03 (football), Kevin Sears '03 (football), and Tony Temple '04 (football).

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Broke the 800-meter and 1600-meter school records

All-State as senior in 13-0 State Title season

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Placed 6th at State in the 1600-meter

All-American honorable mention in 2002 with 122 tackles and 4 INTs

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Also an All-Metro catcher in baseball

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35-4 record as starting linebacker for three seasons

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Currently, there are 130 alumni, 15 coaches, and three friends of the program who have been inducted as members.

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Two-time All-District, AllMetro, All-State

First freshman to start under Coach Severino

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Recorded 123 tackles and 3 INTs in perfect 14-0 junior season

Four-time All-Metro running back, career record of 44-5

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2021 Buck Buchanan Award winner - best lineman/ linebacker in KC

All-American and two-time AllState, two-time State Champ

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Still holds the career rushing (5,340) and scoring (480) records

Here is a bit about each of the 2021 inductees:

KEVIN KANE '02

TONY TEMPLE '04

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YOUNG ALUMNI LEAD SUCCESSFUL EVENTS With each new graduating class at Rockhurst High School, and the Class of 2022 being the 106th, young men are expected to continue as “men for others” in their college years and beyond.

Rockhurst offers these graduates a simple message: Your school never leaves you.

Alumni are always welcome on campus for Rockhurst alumni events. For the 2021-22 school year, the Philanthropy & Engagement Office hosted more than 20 alumni events. Most would not have been possible without the efforts of alumni volunteers, many of them graduates within the last 10 years.

Three examples are Joe Giwa '15, Blaise Gassman '16, and David Sandvig, III '16. All three decided to attend the Ignatian Leadership Kick-Off Dinner on Sept. 9, 2021 and wanted to become more involved with their alma mater.

Within weeks they began planning and promoting the Young Alumni Pizza Party on Dec. 21, a gathering for alumni classes that graduated within the last five years. Through their dedication, the celebration had its largest ever turnout, with nearly 100 alumni attending. The trio was also involved with hosting a soldout Alumni Breakfast Series at the Polsinelli Offices in December, and

then a packed Alumni Breakfast Series on campus in March.

“Rockhurst has undoubtedly molded me and left a lasting mark on me, which I truly appreciate. I first owe it to the school to give back because it gave me a lot more than tuition could ever cover: friends that turned into family, a mindset of reflection and critical thinking, and Jesuit faith values,” said Gassman. “Secondly, we have all heard too often that paying it forward does you more good than you could imagine. It keeps me grounded and appreciative.”

They encourage other recent Rockhurst grads to get involved as well, in both attending events and considering charitable gifts.

“It’s so important to support Rockhurst because it’s up to us to make sure that future students have the same opportunity to get the Rockhurst experience,” said Sandvig. “Almost 50% of students receive financial aid and that is

made possible by generous alumni who understand the importance of supporting our alma mater. It’s never too late to get involved, reconnect with some old friends, and even form new friendships.”

Chris Miller '11 and James Shay '11 have also made an impact through their alumni efforts. Miller is leading the return of the Alumni Yard Games in June, a favorite event for alumni of all ages, and Shay joined the National Alumni Association Board of Governors in 2020.

If you would like to become an alumni volunteer, please contact Meredith Suarez, Director of Alumni Engagement, at msuarez@rockhursths.edu.

Pictured to the right: David Sandvig, III ’16, Blaise Gassman ’16, and Joe Giwa ’15.

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Ed McGurren '55 Leaves Legacy of Alumni Stewardship Rockhurst High School, like all charitable organizations, is strengthened by leadership volunteers. One of the Rockhurst High School National Alumni Association’s most respected representatives was Edward McGurren III '55. As efforts continue to recruit alumni support, reflecting on the qualities of this servant leader is timely and important.

McGurren’s father was Jesuit educated (high school and college) in St. Marys, KS. He and his wife, Margaret, were proud to send Ed to St. Ignatius College Prep while they lived and worked (Skelly Oil) in Chicago. Sadly, Ed’s father died suddenly in March of 1953, and the family moved back home to Kansas City. McGurren arrived on Rockhurst’s 52nd and Troost campus in 1953 where he instantly found a second home and connection to the rhythms of the Society of Jesus. McGurren graduated from Rockhurst High School in 1955 and then continued his formation at Rockhurst College (now University) where he received his degree in 1959. He often commented that “Jesuit ideals make sense to me.” So, he put them to work,

serving two years in the United States Army, and then devoting himself to a successful 33-year career with Bendix/Allied Signal/Honeywell from 1961 until his retirement in 1994.

Although McGurren passed away on December 19, 2019, his legacy of commitment and achievement lives on in the volunteer ranks of the Alumni Association. The current Alumni Board is seeking these same qualities in today's ambassadors for The Rock.

“Ed McGurren was one of Rockhurst High School’s most dedicated volunteers,” said Laurence Freeman '82, who helped coordinate alumni activities for the school from 1994 to 2021. “When Ed was in charge, you knew the job would get done. He was a model of how we hoped alumni would commit themselves to our common goal of keeping Rockhurst High School’s mission strong and proud.”

The McGurrens are a Third Generation Rockhurst family, and Fourth Generation Jesuit educated. Ed and his wife, Nadine, sent their sons, Steve '80 and Mark '84, to Rockhurst, and now the McGurren grandsons have received their Jesuit educations.

The McGurren Family Endowment is one the school’s most generous, supplying multiple tuition assistance grants each year.

Finally, McGurren’s work with his classmates for 64 years developed into a system for accurately maintaining a class database; appealing for charitable gifts; and growing reunion attendance (and memories). He co-founded an annual All Souls Mass and Brunch for his class, which still draws large groups of alumni and their spouses.

“We are seeing so many old and new alumni leaders step forward to be involved,” commented Frank Allen '05, president of the Alumni Board.

“We need more men to actively share our mission in creative ways.

A class year never expires – we are Rockhurst alumni for life! I invite all my fellow alumni to join in our good works and experience the joy Ed did while giving back to The Rock.”

While Rockhurst High School is grateful for and misses Ed McGurren, his spirit of giving back lives on in his family and the many alumni leadership volunteers who devote themselves to The Rock today. To learn more about the Alumni Association, visit www.rockhursths.edu/alumni.

To learn more about alumni engagement and how to get involved, please contact Meredith Suarez, Director of Alumni Engagement, at msuarez@rockhursths.edu.

FORMER TEACHER TAKES

Br. Bob Macke, SJ, pronounced his final vows on Feb. 2, 2022 on the Feast of the Presentation.

The special ceremony took place in the Church of the Gesú in Rome and Mass was celebrated

by Fr. Arturo Sosa, SJ, Superior General of the Society of Jesus.

Br. Macke spent some of his formation experience, from 2002-03, at Rockhurst High School teaching physics alongside Dr. Fred Campisano.

He joined the Vatican Observatory in Rome in 2013 and has worked there since, studying meteorite physical properties in the observatory’s meteorite laboratory. In 2014, Br. Macke became the curator of the Vatican collection of 1,200 meteorite specimens.

FINAL VOWS

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ALUMNI CLIMB MT. KILIMANJARO On June 13, 2021, Luke McLellan '00 led a group of 26 climbers to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa.

It stands at 19,341 feet and is the highest point on the continent.

The accomplishment took six days following the Machame route.

Of the 26 successful summit bids, 14 members in the group were Rockhurst High School alumni, including: McLellan, Bob Hamilton '78, Jonathan Adriano '01, Tim Nendick '08, Robert Simons '10, Jon Zinser '12, Logan Hagan-McAnany '17, Griffin Dilks '20, Ray Hamilton '20, Ben Keefe '20, Jake Walters '20, Sam Boers '21, Luke Hamilton '21, and Howie Waldenmeyer '21.

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Alumni Accomplishments Gregory Joseph '64 was selected to participate in the Oral History Project of the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which is dedicated to chronicling the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and presenting contemporary culture within the context of presidential history. Joseph, a retired journalist and television columnist who was a member of a Pulitzer Prize-winning staff while reporting for The San Diego Union-Tribune, met the future president when he was campaigning for office near Kansas City.

Greg Helm '65 is a 50% owner of Hot Rod Charlie, an American Thoroughbred racehorse that placed 2nd at the 2021 Kentucky Derby. It also took 2nd in the 2021 Belmont Stakes and 2020 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. Hot Rod Charlie was the winner of the 2021 Pennsylvania Derby and Louisiana Derby.

Jerry Reardon '69 announced his retirement from the Thomas McGee Group after 48 years with the insurance broker. Reardon wrote: “I would have never thought and dreamed of the fantastic life God had in store for me at McGee’s. The people I worked with, the clients I partnered with have all been treasures that I will cherish always.”

Kevin Regan '73 was selected as the Grand Marshal of the 2022 Topeka St. Patrick’s Day Parade that took place on March 10. Regan was on the inaugural committee of the parade while he was in law school in 1980. He was joined in the parade by his four grandchildren, and noted that he was humble and grateful for the Irish honor.

Richard Mattione '74 economist and investor, published Follow the Money: Fed Largesse, Inflation, and Moon Shots in Financial Markets. The book dives into the U.S. Federal Reserve and other central banks over the last decade. It also looks into moon shot memes, SPACs, cryptos, and other digital currencies.

Richard Paradise '74 published his second book, entitled Growing Up in the OP: Tales of a Midwestern Baby Boomer, a memoir that will ring true with anyone who grew up in the 60’s and 70’s. While it takes place in Overland Park, KS, it’s not as much about growing up in a place as it is about growing up in a time.

Art Chartrand '76 of the Chartrand Foundation has pledged to build “The Giving Gallery” in Olathe, KS. Think of a “WeWorks” or “Plexpods” coop office concept for entrepreneurs, but for charities. The goal is to have The Giving Gallery built by Fall 2022.

TOM JANTSCH Tom Jantsch '77 was named the President & COO of Ronawk LLC, a company formed by a group of engineers and scientists interested in developing options for patients who need tissue and organ transfers but have limited options. They preserve primary stem cells from patients for later use in reconstructive surgeries.

Torre Nigro '77 was honored by Rockhurst University with the Xavier Medal of Honor. This recognition is for the alumnus who manifests the Jesuit tradition of “service to others”.

Nigro has been a dedicated volunteer and board member for several major nonprofit and community organizations, including Don Bosco Center, Catholic Charities, and Rockhurst University.

David Cone '81 is joining the announcing booth for ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball.

He pitched for 17 seasons in the majors, winning World Series titles with the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees. Cone won the 1994 American League Cy Young Award while pitching for the KC Royals.

Gib Kerr '81, a longtime Cushman & Wakefield executive and prominent local commercial real estate broker, was tapped to lead the firm’s Kansas City office. Kerr, formerly the office’s director of capital markets, succeeded longtime Managing Principal Mike Mayer (RHS ‘82), effective March 22, 2021.

JIM COSGROVE

Allen Roberson '84 was selected as one of 16 CFOs recognized by the Kansas City Business Journal in its list of 2021 CFOs of the Year. Roberson has served as CFO at Rockhurst High School since June 2019. Prior to that he was Principal at AKR Consulting LLC, Vice President Finance and Administration at Sekisui XenoTech LLC, and CFO at Planet Biopharmaceuticals Inc. Pete Browne '85 was chosen by the Kansas City Public Library’s board of trustees as its first new president in 17 years, succeeding Jonathan Kemper.

Browne has served on the Library board since 2020 and chairs its building oversight committee. He is the co-founder and president of Kissick Construction.

Todd LaSala '89 partner and chair of Stinson’s real estate and public finance division, was named to Midwest Real Estate News’ Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame. For nearly 25 years, LaSala has worked in commercial real estate and development, with an emphasis on public-private partnerships.

Mike Gates '90 was inducted into The Heartland Hall of Fame. Gates has worked as a Territory Manager at Heartland Payment Systems since 2014, helping customers cut costs with full-disclosure merchant advocacy approach to payment card processing and payroll processing.

Todd McCullough '90 acquired Prime Label KC, which offers custom label printing services for pharmaceutical, health care, veterinary, retail, food and beverage, industrial, and commercial clients.

Stephen Bessenbacher '92 was inducted into the Midwest Real Estate News' Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame. In April 2021, Bessenbacher joined Crown MedRealty Partners, LLC as its Chief Operating Officer & Managing Partner. Prior to that, he was a Sr. Vice President with Block Real Estate Services for 10 years.

Steve Coppinger '94 was appointed to the Northwest Missouri State University Board of Regents. He is the President and Founder of Impact Interiors, a fullservice contract furniture dealer based in Kansas City with additional locations in St. Louis, Des Moines, and Chicago.

Jim Cosgrove '83 has written and published a book about the disappearance and murder of Frank McGonigle '74, titled Ripple: A Long Strange Search for a Killer. Cosgrove is known by many as the beloved, award-winning children’s entertainer, Mr. Stinky Feet.

Stephen Holte '99 was announced as the founding president of Cristo Rey Orange County in California. The school is on target to open in 2023, and will be the 40th school in the Cristo Rey Network. Holte brings more than 15 years of leadership in Catholic education, including serving as Assistant Dean for Advancement at Arrupe College.

IVAN NUGENT Ivan Nugent '99 was announced as a shareholder at Krigel & Krigel, P.C., a leading Midwest law firm. Nugent provides counsel to both corporate and individual clients on a variety of topics, and specializes in litigation of employment, commercial and consumer disputes for both plaintiffs and defendants. Nugent also serves on Rockhurst High School’s Board of Trustees and Educational Affairs Sub-Committee, as well as Rockhurst High School’s National Alumni Association Board of Governors.

David Hudnall '00 joined the Kansas City Star’s staff as a narrative writer in November 2021. He previously held a variety of positions at The Pitch, including editor, and was most recently editor-inchief of the Phoenix New Times in Arizona.

Paul Rohrer '00 Director of Ambulatory Patient Access at The University of Kansas Health System, was recognized by the national association “Patient Access Collaborative” as an Access Champion. This recognition was given for his commitment to improving access workflows, breaking down access barriers, and going above and beyond his job duties to ensure patients are seen in a timely manner.

Joshua Karlin, MD '05 completed his spine fellowship at the University of Missouri - Columbia and joined the Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance as an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon. Dr. Karlin’s area of expertise is surgical treatment of spine disorders. This encompasses degenerative disorders of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, as well as spine trauma and metastatic disease affecting the spine.

Andrew Shepard '05 has been named Vice President – Investment Officer at Wells Fargo Advisors. Shepard has been a financial advisor at Wells Fargo since 2016, and in 2018 partnered with his mother, Margo Shepard, to form the Shepard Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors.

Seth Sinovic '05 announced his retirement from professional soccer on Sept. 23, 2021. Sinovic enjoyed an 11-year career in the MLS and played for Sporting KC from 2011-2019. He ranks seventh in club history with 257 appearances and sixth in both starts and minutes played. Soon after, he joined AREA Real Estate Advisors as a member of its Industrial Team.

JEROME JACKSON

Kevin Kane '02 was named the associate head coach/outside linebackers coach at the University of Illinois prior to the 2021 season. Kane spent the previous three years serving as the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at SMU. Prior to SMU, he had coaching stints at Northern Illinois and the University of Kansas, where Kane also played linebacker, earning AllBig 12 honorable mention accolades.

Jerome Jackson '06 has published The NIL Book - A Complete Guide to Student-Athlete Compensation. The book is a great tool for student-athletes and business owners to understand the new world of monetizing NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rights in college athletics. Jackson is a Technology & Entertainment attorney and founder of Extraordinary Insights, based in Miami, FL.

Adam Pummill '02 was named the head football coach at Blue Valley North High School prior to the 2021 season. He joined the program in 2019 and served as the offensive line coach and the offensive coordinator.

Charlie Regan '06 joined The Regan Law Firm, L.L.C. as a member. The firm was founded by Charlie’s father, Kevin E. J. Regan ‘73. Charlie has received the Pro Bono Champion Award from the Kansas Bar Association and has been a Super Lawyers designee for the last five years.

JOSHUA KARLIN

Scott Bluhm '07 achieved his full Society of Industrial and Office Realtors (SIOR) designation. SIOR is the leading global professional office and industrial real estate association. With 3,600 members in 45 countries and 722 cities, SIOR represents today’s most knowledgeable, experienced, and successful commercial real estate brokerage specialists. Bluhm is a managing director at Newmark Zimmer.

Cornell Ellis '08 was included on Startland News’ list of six Kansas City changemakers out of more than 100 nominees.

Ellis is the founder and executive director at Brothers Liberating Our Communities (BLOC), which has the goal of increasing the number of Black male educators in schools - starting with Kansas City.

Andrew Brain '09 CEO and founder of Brain Group, founded a start-up called Drone Wash to utilize drones for cleaning exterior building surfaces.

Brain partnered with another local entrepreneur and acquired an industrial spraying drone, which connects via hose to a grounded rig that mixes and compresses a cleaning solution.

Daniel Brocato '09 was promoted to Vice President of Block & Company, Inc., Realtors. Brocato began his career at Block in 2013 as a Property Manager and Acquisition Manager. In 2017, he joined the Block & Company Sales team, working closely with local and national tenants for procurement of space in the KC market.

Max Kaniger '09 was included on Startland News’ list of six Kansas City change-makers out of more than 100 nominees. Kaniger is the founder of Kanbe’s Markets, which aims to give access to fresh and affordable food in communities experiencing food insecurity.

Kanbe’s has created innovative food delivery systems that are more inclusive, enhance small businesses, and empower individuals to make healthier choices.

Brad Miller '09 was named to the Kansas City Business Journal’s list of 20 to Know in Insurance. Miller is the director of claims analytics with the Robert E. Miller Group, where he analyzes client claims data for trends and highlights how their claims compare with the average for others in the same industry.

Chandler Smith '11 is one of the top CrossFit athletes in the world, and in January 2022 secured a sponsorship deal with Puma. For every podium finish that Smith earns during competition, he selects a worthy charitable organization that will receive a donation from Puma.

Charles Brain '12 is the co-founder of Lubanzi, a wine company in South Africa rooted in social responsibility.

Lubanzi’s 2020 Chenin Blanck was included on Wine Enthusiast’s list of Best Wines of 2021. The tasting panel annually reviews upwards of 22,000 wines, and Lubanzi’s was ranked #100. > Continued on next page.

Alex Stubblefield '14 earned his way to a

22

Alumni Accomplishments (cont.)

Alumni Births

Mark Blanck '98 and Natalie, a son, Christopher Dominic Eric Munninghoff '99 and Molly, a son, Matthew Thomas and a daughter, Mary Elizabeth Josh Polsinelli '00 and Janney, a daughter, India Kathleen Mike Day '01 and Jamie, a daughter, Cole McLagan '16 signed with Sporting Rhema Galilee WES PORTER KC II for the team’s first season in the Mark Euston '02 and Laura, a son, MLS Next Pro, a new professional league Daniel Kevin that kicked off in late-March 2022. After Wes Porter '20 had a historic freshman Daniel Shouse '02 and Natalie, a daughter, successful careers at Rockhurst High track season in 2021 at the University Sophia Brynn School and Furman University, he began of Virginia. He was named 1st Team Drew Switzer '02 and Leslie, a son, his professional journey in 2021 with All-ACC in the 1500, finished 2nd at the Greenville Triumph where he logged Rex Andrew the ACC Championships with a PR of nine appearances in USL League One. 3:41.98, good for the second fastest Mike Comiskey '03 and Elise, a son, ever for a UVA freshman. He also holds Sam Richard Christian Franklin '18 was selected the fastest outdoor mile (4:00.08) in Brian Fagan '03 and Ashley, a daughter, by the Chicago Cubs in the 4th Round UVA history at the Virginia Grand Prix.

Sonny Jane (#123 overall) in the 2021 MLB Draft.

Franklin was a three-year standout in the Timothy Kratofil '03 and Kate, a daughter, Evan Verhulst '21 signed with TSMFTX outfield at the University of Arkansas. as a professional Apex Legends video Margaret Nadine Over his three seasons, he batted .289 game player in January 2022. TSMFTX Joseph LaScala '03 and Michelle, a son, with 134 hits in 136 games. In 2021 he is the largest and most successful Gabriel Michael was a pre-season All-American for the Esports organization in the world.

Matt Gotschall '04 and Molly, twin sons, Razorbacks, which held the #1 ranking In January, Verhulst won the Apex Wyatt Howard and Felix Oliver in the country for much of the season.

Legends Global Series Split One Michael Hinck '04 and Katie, a daughter, Playoffs, a $250,000 tournament.

Harper Judith Brian Illig '04 and Michelle, a son, Aiden Francis Lindsey Prestia '04 and Amanda, a daughter, Audra Leigh Kevin Ward '00 and Sara Peppes Joshua Karlin, MD '05 and Alyssa, a son, Derrick McKinney '04 and Adriane Coburn Lucas Robert Kevin Morris '04 and Annie Williams John Nagle '05 and Callie, a son, Quinn Damon '08 and Brooke Torres John Rodney John Martucci '08 and Sam Miner Jack Shuler '05 and Maggie, a daughter, Tom Sorrentino '08 and Victoria Godfrey Poppy Louise Mitch Briggs '09 and Raelynn Rockwell Cary Silverman '05 and Becca, a daughter, Andrew Euston '09 and Hannah Quillec Amelia Ann Jack Faerber '09 and Courtney Watkins Thomas Staab '05 and Gina, a son, Nathan Foster '09 and Lena Houfaidi JACOB SYKES James Wolfgang Robbie Haden '09 and Ashley Stout Jacob Sykes '18 earned a spot on the Matt Murphy '06 and Emily, a daughter, Michael Reintjes '09 and Hadley Burnham 2021 FCS ADA Acearned a spot on the Adam Ungashick '09 and Victoria Ambrosio Mallory Elizabeth 2021 FCS ADA All-Academic All-Star Louis Groff '07 and Kara, a son, Cooper Beckett '10 and Carly Gutierrez Team for his performance on Harvard Cameron Henry David Belpedio '10 and Molly Meek University football team while majoring Spencer Hardwick '07 and Phyllis, a son, Matthew Stacks '10 and Bailey Barry in Applied Mathematics. In addition to his work in the classroom, Sykes was a Travis Leinenbach '11 and Bridget Pederson Lennox Carter 1st Team All-Ivy League selection after Frank Reardon '07 and Lucy, a son, Brett Ungashick '11 and Callie Fernandez he started all 10 games and finished with Otto Jeffery Alex Bales '12 and Olivia Lanier 27 tackles, 7 sacks, 8 TFL and a forced Conner Teahan '07 and Alyssa, a son, Nick Deatherage '12 and Kiley Donaldson fumble. In January 2022 he announced he Lincoln Michael John McCaffrey '12 and Paige Huber will be joining UCLA as a grad transfer.

Drew Arensberg ’08 and Kara, a daughter, Isaac Wilmot '13 and Kaitlin Walters Birdie Jane Will Boesen '08 and Ann, a son, Peter James **Announcements included have been received since February 2021.

Alex Cowan '08 and Abigail, a son, Any future announcements can be sent to Robbie Haden '09, Director Charles Hugh of Communications & Branding, at rhaden@rockhursths.edu. spot on Jeopardy! Stubblefield competed on the July 6, 2021 airing of the show and placed 2nd. Stubblefield completed his undergrad at the University of Oklahoma where he earned a Bachelors in Economics, followed by a Masters in Biostatistics.

He is currently working toward his PhD in Economics at Michigan State University.

Alumni Marriages

Patrick Doyle '08 and Mary, a daughter, Rose Elizabeth John Fitzpatrick '08 and Julia, a son, Sullivan Mark John Fryer '08 and Lucy, a daughter, Arlie Eloise Rex Redlingshafer '08 and Beth, a son, Rex Andrew, III Terry Smith '08 and Courtney, a son, Henry Morrison Joe Tulipana '08 and Maggie, a son, Charles Davis Daniel Brocato '09 and Lindsay, a daughter, Sophia Grace Chris Castelluccio '09 and Ally, a daughter, Charlotte Bea Luke Clifford '09 and Sammy, a daughter, Hadley Lynn Matt Fagan '09 and Kenzie, a son, Jameson Desmond John Hoefer '09 and Marisa, a son, Graham Thomas Tommy Keenan '09 and Jenny, a daughter, Heidi Elizabeth Brett Kreikemeier '09 and Brittany, a son, Henry Michael Joe Rasmussen '09 and Melanie, a son, Leo Joseph Luke Schneider '09 and Elly, a daughter, Lydia Claire Tim Schulte '09 and Kylie, a son, John Patrick Stephen Westhead '09 and Anna, a daughter, Olivia Jane Matt Winterhalter '09 and Ariel, a daughter, Agnes Rose Preston Elder '10 and Stevie, a son, Theodore Edward Jack Evans '10 and Rosie, a daughter, Mary Maureen Nick Gard '10 and Katherine, a son, Charles Pierson Evan Lang '10 and Margaret, a daughter, Elsie Montgomery Jalen Montgomery '10 and Shirley, a son, Noah Jay Jacob Wolf '10 and Laurel, a daughter, Grace Elizabeth Travis Leinenbach '11 and Bridget, a son, Grayson Allen Ryan McAnany '12 and Moira, a daughter, Beatriz Marie Dolores Luke Eckley '15 and Riley, a son, Lake Brian

Alumni Deaths Dick Connor '48 Rev. Thomas Wheeler, SJ, '48 Mike Mulligan '49 Jerome Burke '50 Richard Enna, Sr. '50 John Martin '50

Thomas Daly '51 Donald Donnelly, Sr. '53 Clarence Sloan, Jr. '53 Dennis Pleimann '54 Thomas Purcell, DDS '54 Bernard Dierks '55 James Kenworthy '55 The Hon. Victor Rocha '55 Charles Schorgl, Sr. '55 Michael Wiley '55 Joseph Kenny '56 Salvatore Cerniglia '58 Michael Chiappetta '58 Thomas Klein '58 Michael Crawford '59 Larry Houlton '59 James McMullen, Jr. '59 Michael Hurley '60 Richard Witthar '60 Mark Carney '61 Victor Kauzlarich '63 Patrick Ervin '64 Kenny Marx '64 Michael Frechin '65 Stephen Heavey '66 Donald Winkler '66 Robert Menadier '67 James Morgan '67 Col. Richard Nelson, III '67 Robert Runnels '67 Terry Hanje '69 William Schoonover '69 Jeffrey Peakes '70 Lawrence Burchett, III '71 William Baldwin '72 Gregory Muleski '72 Terence Connealy '73 Christopher Davis '74 Dennis DeCoursey, CPA '74 Timothy Maggard '74 Timothy McGovern '74 Robert Redman '74 Paul Garner '75 Tim Morris '75 Brian Gepford '75 Richard Feierabend '77 Stephen White '77 Patrick Cooper '78 Anthony Daniel '79 David Baughman '82 Shawn Travis, Ph.D '87 John Connelly '88 Erik Michaelson '90 Genaro Ruiz '92 Kyle Slater '93 Brian Lewis '96 Kevin Knopke '99 Patrick Rhea '05 Andrew Soloducha '07 Mick Corless '14 Matinn Miller '14 William Dennis '17

Friend Deaths John L. Adams Kathleen Andrew Fred Arbanas Robert Atchity Frank Biondo, Jr. Patricia Brewster Terrance Buckman Daniel Caffrey Michael Carroll Norma Jean Chaddock Edwin Cone Graziano Cornolo Michael Curran Bonnie Jean Darby Gerard Degnan Polly Donnelly Rick Downey Kathleen Dunn Jerry Fabac Paula Fitts Pamela Donovan Fowler Anna Marie Franke Peggy Freeman Henrietta Garner Pamela Gates Kathryn Giacabazi Trudy Graves Joan Hamilton James Hartzfeld Mary Kay Heili Eugene Holewinski Richard Huff Edward Hughes, III Paul Illig, Sr. Vicki Iwai Bruce Lackey Francis Josephine Lillig Anthony Lozano Mary Beth Lundak Mary Ann Mason Scott McGee John McMeel Judy Miniace Josephine Mirabil Jack Morris Michael DeDuzman Navato, MD Leonard Passantino Rev. Paul Pilgrim, SJ Janet Powell Sarah Pruett Elizabeth Root Louis Sojka, MD Joseph Soloducha Rev. Paul Stark, SJ Chuck Sullivan Sally Teahan Joseph Vowells Adelaide Ward Arden Sickman Weis Br. Michael Wilmot, SJ Michelina Yarnevich Gary Zancanelli

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SCHOOL ENJOYS CAMPUS IMPROVEMENTS PROUD TO SIT ON THE BEAUTIFUL GREENLEASE MEMORIAL CAMPUS SINCE 1962, ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL CONTINUES TO UNDERGO SIGNIFICANT CHANGES.

During the current school year, the Rockhurst community has witnessed the progress of the Jack Nestor '34 Outdoor Lab & Classroom, immediately south of the school’s main entrance. The space is named for Nestor by his daughter, Colleen Enna, married to Rockhurst alumnus Salvatore (Sam) Enna '61.

“My dad was proud of his Rockhurst High School education, which his mother managed somehow, despite the absence of his father,” noted Colleen Enna. “Rockhurst’s theme of ‘men for others’ fit my dad well.”

The space is already being utilized by classes and co-curricular groups, and the rest of the project will be completed by the end of 2022. This includes the Class of 2021 Discovery Pond that will feature an aquatic ecosystem; the Deb and Larry ('74) Krissek Regional Native Grassland Area; and a Hawklet statue gifted by the Class of 2022.

Despite living in central Ohio and not having returned to Rockhurst’s campus in some 25 years, Krissek was still excited upon hearing of the Outdoor Lab & Classroom. Krissek, an earth scientist and professor at The Ohio State University, is a strong believer in experiential learning and wanted to help offer opportunities for students at his alma mater.

“I had a very positive experience at Rockhurst and if we can do something to try to make a similar experience available to others, then in our minds that’s a good investment,” remarked Krissek about his and his wife’s financial

The Jack Nestor ’34 Outdoor Lab & Classroom in its current state.

The entirety of the project will be finished by the end of 2022.

commitment to the new space on Rockhurst’s campus.

The Hawklets Center, which replaced the Al Davis, Jr. Fieldhouse, was completed in 2017. It features a lower level equipped with two large locker rooms, a cutting-edge trainer’s room, and small conference rooms for individual player review. The upper level holds a multi-purpose space for 120 used for team and alumni gatherings and a spacious coaches office space.

In October 2021, the exterior of the Hawklets Center received an upgrade in the form of a beautiful crucifix from Italy, given by an anonymous donor (see photo on the back cover). The crucifix overlooks the stadium field, and students have started a tradition of touching Jesus’ feet prior to competitions.

Also at Rockhurst’s Vincent P. Dasta Memorial Stadium, the track surrounding Severino Field was torn out and replaced over summer 2021. It is a high-quality Beynon track, producer of the tracks at Power Five programs such as Kansas, Colorado and Oregon. The new material is softer than Rockhurst’s previous track, which allows for better training. Rockhurst’s new track, besides sporting the Hawklet royal blue, has gray exchange zones that makes judging relay handoffs easier. An additional long/triple jump pit was also added, so Rockhurst now has the ability to host larger meets, such as Districts and Sectionals.

26

A Word from the Principal Alumni and Friends of Rockhurst, What do Moses, Thérèse of Lisieux, Ignatius of Loyola, and you and I have in common? Each one had (and has, in our case) opportunities to lead people to the will of God, imperfect sinners though all of us were and are.

Facing Israelite grumblings and near starvation in the wildnerness, Moses, who Scripture records as having taken another man’s life in a violent tussle and who likely had a speach impediment, led the Chosen People away from slavery in Egypt to a land promised to them by God, often commuincating with God directly and personally on behalf of the people he was leading.

Saint Thérèse, though she died young and behind the walls of a Discalced Carmelite monastery, often found herself annoyed by the peccadillos of her fellow nuns, and yet she, a true friend of Jesus, still leads people toward God’s will in her extant writings (e.g. the autobiography Story of a Soul), writings that are valued so highly in our faith tradition that the Little Flower, as she was known, was declared by Pope Saint John Paul II a “Doctor of the Church,” one out of a total of 37 persons, only four of whom are women.

The balding, bantam Basqueman of the House of Loyola turned away from a life of wretched self-indulgence to one of generous self-gift, leading generations of Jesuits the world over, as well as leading our religious and lay collaborators in mission, toward the will of God through his great gift to the Church, the Spiritual Exercises.

And then there’s you and me: imperfect sinners –– like Moses, Thérèse, and Íñigo –– yet called into companionship with God and missioned to be leaders in the world, our common home, to walk alongside the excluded, particularly with young people, to lead them all toward a hope-filled future and to the will of God as best we can, each according to his or her unique, God-given talents and abilities.

Let us, then, “ask grace from our Lord that [we] may not be deaf to His call, but ready and diligent to accomplish His most holy will” (from “The Contemplation of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ” of the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, annotation 91).

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam,

Rev. Vincent A. Giacabazi, SJ Principal

RED BRIDGE YMCA BECOMES GOPPERT ROCK PLEX

Rockhurst High School has added an additional facility for student, faculty, and staff benefits.

On Feb. 17, 2022, Rockhurst finalized the purchase of the Red Bridge YMCA, which had closed in December 2021.

The facility served as the home of the Rockhurst swim & dive program since 2003. During that time, Rockhurst built the winningest swim & dive program in Missouri high school history, earning 13 State Championships since 2005.

The announcement of the facility was made to current swim & dive families and many alumni who gathered in the Rose Theater on Feb. 22. Paul Winkeler, swim & dive head coach from 1999-2014 and 2018-present, was proud to share the good news with his AquaHawks family.

“I want you to know that it is home for you, for your classmates. It is for you, but is because of the swim & dive alumni who came before you; because of your parents; because of Rockhurst alumni - a lot of people who are putting a lot of trust in our school. I’m so thankful and grateful that we have this opportunity to make this place our home, to work there, and to make it special for you all and for future swimmers and divers.”

activities, retreat center, student camps, health & wellness center for faculty and staff members, and more. Rockhurst is also making the facility available, through written agreements, to other schools and student athletes, including St. Teresa's Academy, Notre Dame de Sion and Center School District.

To offset purchase, improvement, and operations cost of the facility, Rockhurst is offering naming opportunities. The facility will be known as the Goppert Rock Plex, as The Goppert Foundation made a $1 million gift to the facility. The Ann & Gary Dickinson Family Charitable Foundation and The McDonnell Foundation have also made this project possible. Rockhurst also plans to partner with other local schools in need of an aquatic center.

“Since 2003, the location of the Goppert Rock Plex has been our home. No program has had equal success to Rockhurst’s Swim & Dive Program since that time. We feel fortunate to now own this facility,” said David Laughlin, president of Rockhurst High School. “In the near term, we will be making necessary improvements to the facility. Hopefully by this summer, the Goppert Rock Plex will be in use for our young men. It would not be possible without the support of lead benefactors, our swim & dive families, our facilities division, and many community supporters. We are grateful for the opportunity this facility presents for Rockhurst to continue living its mission of forming young men in intellect, character, and faith through academics, athletics, and activities.”

To learn more or to make a gift, visit www.rockhursths.edu/pool.

In addition to the swim & dive program’s utilization of the pool, potential uses of the facility include STEAM-supportive academic curriculum, physical education courses, athletic rehabilitation, nutrition center, service learning Current students and alumni with Swim & Dive coaches following the February 22, 2022 announcement

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Seniors Earn Hispanic Development Fund Scholarships On March 31, four seniors walked to the Learning Commons as they had done hundreds, if not thousands, of times during their four years at Rockhurst High School.

But to the students’ confusion, their parents were waiting there.

And they were all smiles.

Alongside the parents and siblings were representatives from the Hispanic Development Fund (HDF), an organization with the mission to improve the quality of life for Latino families in the Greater Kansas City area through grants and scholarship.

Mateo DeLaTorre, Dimitri Gonzales, Anthony Lozano, and and Xavier Ramirez, all from the Class of 2022, would be receiving HDF Scholarships from members of the program’s board.

These young men have worked hard to maintain strong grades and be involved in various clubs, sports, and activities at Rockhurst. But their commitment to a Rockhurst education began long before they joined the Class of 2022 as freshmen.

All four were members of the Hurtado Scholars Program, which was founded at Rockhurst in 2012.

The program works with rising sixth grade boys at inner-city Catholic middle schools, identified by their teachers and principals, through their eighth grade year to expand their skills and education in preparation for high school. If they choose to attend Rockhurst and are accepted, they will attend the school with minimal tuition cost, possible through the support of generous Rockhurst and Hurtado Scholars Program donors.

As Hurtado Scholars, DeLaTorre, Gonzalez, Lozano, and Ramirez came to Rockhurst after school every Tuesday and Thursday during their sixth through eighth grade years for this academic enhancement to prepare them for high school. They also spent most of their summers with the program. It is a full commitment by the young men and their families.

“I am so proud of these guys. I have watched them work hard and grow into wonderful young men, so it does not surprise me that they have earned college scholarships through the Hispanic Development Fund,” commented Marvin Grilliot, Hurtado Scholars Program Director. “My hope for these young men is that

they follow their love and passion.

I know that they will use their gifts to serve the wider community.”

Mateo DeLaTorre '22 receives his Hispanic Development Fund Scholarship certificate from Leticia Zarate-Garcia.

The four students are looking forward to the next chapter of their lives with help from the HDF Scholarships.

“Receiving the HDF Scholarship has shone a light on my future. I’ve always been grateful for having the opportunity to come to Rockhurst High School, knowing that I would eventually go on to become a first generation college student. This scholarship has made that dream all the more possible, transforming it into a reality,” said Lozano.

Looking ahead to college, DeLaTorre will attend the University of Kansas, Gonzales will attend Metropolitan Community College, Lozano will attend Kansas City Kansas Community College, and Ramirez will attend the University of Missouri.

“I THANK ROCKHURST FOR BEING SO MISSIONDRIVEN, AND ESTABLISHING THE HURTADO SCHOLARS PROGRAM. THE SCHOOL IS LIVING OUT THE MISSION OF SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES THAT MANY YOUNG MEN WOULD NOT OTHERWISE HAVE.” — Leticia Zarate-Garcia,

Hispanic Development Fund Board Member and current parent

Recipients of the Hispanic Development Fund Scholarships: Anthony Lozano '22, Dimitri Gonzales '22, Mateo DeLaTorre '22, and Xavier Ramirez '22 , pictured with John Kearney, Executive Director of the Hispanic Development Fund, Fr. Vincent Gicabazi, SJ, and Marvin Grilliot, Director of the Hurtado Scholars Program.

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STUDENTS LIVE OUT JESUIT IDEALS IN THE COMMUNITY From the first day that a student steps foot on the campus of Rockhurst High School, Freshman Orientation Day, their objective over the next four years is made clear: form into men defined by the qualities of the Graduate at Graduation: religious, loving, open to growth, intellectually competent, and committed to justice. Simply put, being a “man for others."

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE

SWIM & DIVE TEAM’S CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER

The process of instilling this mindset into Rockhurst’s youngest students begins immediately, as they participate in a Freshman Day of Service the day after orientation.

The students are assigned to one of several community organizations across the city, both indoors and outdoors, to lend a hand to neighbors. Agencies assisted this year included KC Parks & Recreation, Brush Creek cleanup, Avenue of Life, W.E.B. DuBois Learning Center, Crosslines Outreach, Kanbe’s Markets, KCK Police Athletic League, and more.

The Class of 2026 took part in a second Freshman Day of Service in the spring. Alan Ratermann, Rockhurst’s Director of Ignatian Service Programs, says that for the 202223 school year, the entire freshman class will participate in four Days of Service.

As students progress through the ranks of Rockhurst, they are given ample opportunities to continue serving the community. Student groups such as the Regis Club, Human Dignity Club, Student Diversity Union, and individual sports teams organize community service efforts.

One student club devoted to serving others is the St. Joseph of Arimathea Society. Team members serve as pallbearers for men and women with no known family or friends to lay them to rest. In the last year, groups of around 15 students have spent part of their day at Mt. Olivet Cemetery performing the Corporal Work of Mercy of burying the dead.

Between the two ceremonies, they honored the cremations of nearly 200 men and women.

ST. JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA SOCIETY

REGIS CLUB

“In burying the dead it’s one of the truest ways to honor someone; honor their lives, honor what they went through. And then just to love them,” said Branden Guzman '22.

Each year, a delegation of students and moderators represents Rockhurst at March For Life, the largest annual human rights demonstration in the world, which opposes the practice and legality of abortion. In January 2022, there were 16 students and two teachers who attended the 49th annual March For Life in Washington, D.C. They joined some 50,000 other supporters of life in a peaceful march up Constitution Avenue to the steps of the Supreme Court.

The service aspect of the Rockhurst experience culminates with the Senior Service Projects.

A tradition since for more than 40 years, seniors spend three weeks of their final semester offering their talents and treasures at a local community agency. In recent years, seniors also have the option to attend a Total Ignatian Experience (TIE) trip in Tijuana or Guatemala for the service projects.

“Visitors to Rockhurst High School often ask me what makes the Ignatian Service Office particularly ‘Ignatian’. While the heart of our Christian faith seeks to form young men in the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, we have the opportunity to also learn from the faith traditions handed down from Ignatius and other leaders of the Society of Jesus,” said Ratermann. “Through selfless service, our students enact our charge to be ‘men for others.'

The old adage ‘it is in giving that you receive’ certainly applies; however, our students are witnesses to the power of love when we meet Christ in those we accompany. Our service work remains rooted in the reality that all human life has dignity and is sacred. When our students apply what they learn in class around Kansas City, the city and our students’ hearts move closer to welcoming the Kingdom of God.”

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National Merit Finalists Recognized Four Rockhurst High School seniors were announced as National Merit Semifinalists in September 2021. They are: Akhil Dasika, Jacob Metzner, Isaiah Moncrieffe, and Sam Nissen.

More than 1.5 million students entered the 2022 competition last year by taking the 2020 PSAT, which serves as the initial screen for program entrants. Around 50,000 earned the highest index score to qualify for National Merit Scholarship Program recognition. Of those top students, approximately one-third, or about 16,000, are named as Semifinalists, and around 15,000 Semifinalists are then selected to Finalist standing.

All four Rockhurst seniors were notified in February 2022 that they had earned Finalist status.

Each scholar spoke to his National Merit Finalist selection: Isaiah Moncrieffe “The selection is a great honor, as it shows that my hard work over the last few

years has paid off. It means a lot to me and I’m very grateful to have received the scholarship.”

The school looks forward to what these students will do in college and beyond.

Sam Nissen “Being a National Merit Finalist is a huge deal to me.

I’m thankful that Rockhurst has set me up for success so that I can have this achievement. Being a student of Rockhurst has been one of the most formative and special experiences of my life.”

“The four young men named Finalists in the 2022 National Merit Competition are exceptionally talented students who have demonstrated throughout their high school years that they are motivated in their learning and the pursuit of academic excellence. They will do great things,” said Fola Okediji, Rockhurst’s Director of College Counseling.

Jacob Metzner “To me, being selected as a National Merit Finalist shows that asking for help is one of the greatest tools you can have. I had a lot of help along the way and am very grateful for all the love and support.”

Akhil Dasika “This is a recognition of hard work. I had to practice and learn how to approach the test.

I am thrilled to have received the honor of being a National Merit Finalist, and I will continue to achieve more.”

Four seniors were selected as National Merit Finalists. Pictured between David Laughlin and Rev. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ: Isaiah Moncrieffe ’22, Sam Nissen ’22, Jacob Metzner ’22, and Akhil Dasika ’22.

Starting this fall, Moncrieffe will attend the University of Chicago, Nissen will attend the Air Force Academy, Metzner will attend the University of Alabama, and Dasika will attend Purdue University.

HAWKLETS EXCEL IN CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Rockhurst High School offers more than 45 co-curricular activities and clubs, with every student expected to be involved with at least one. During the current school year, students’ dedication has led to successes in many activities that involve competition.

Three instrumental musicians were selected to All-State groups in December. Sam Nissen '22 earned a spot in the All-State Orchestra as a violinist, Zach Gamble '22 earned a spot in the All-State Jazz Band as a guitarist, and Ian Kennedy '25 earned a spot in the All-State Band as an alto saxophonist. Gamble also received a full-ride scholarship to Pepperdine University based on his academic and music performance skills.

Forty-seven instrumental musicians then competed in the District Music Content in early-April. Eleven students earned Satisfactory 3 ratings, 19 earned Outstanding 2 ratings, and 10 students, along with the eight-person Percussion Ensemble, earned Exemplary 1 ratings. Those 18 musicians qualified to perform at the Missouri State Music Contest on April 28.

The choir program at Rockhurst continues to thrive as the largest co-curricular activity, with more than 225 students enrolled in one of the four choirs. Twelve of the top singers competed in the District competition on April 1, with nine earning Outstanding 2 ratings and three earning Exemplary 1 ratings.

Those three singers will perform at the State Festival in April.

Rockhurst’s Robotics Team, the JesuBots, won the Central Missouri Regional competition and qualified for the World Championships in Houston in late April. This was the first time in program history that the JesuBots qualified for Worlds by being a member of a winning alliance, the highest honor in ways to reach this level of competition.

This year’s team consists of 16 students, led by teachers Andy Wilcox and Tim Nendick '08.

The Mock Trial Team, consisting of seven students, performed strongly enough at Districts and Regionals to earn one of 18 spots for the Missouri State Championship in St. Louis. Rockhurst defeated St. Louis University High School before falling to the eventual State Champions from Kirkwood.

Four members of Rockhurst’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) earned medals at the District competition. Three placed 2nd in the category of Sports & Entertainment Management, and Collin Murphy '22 won the Business Law category and advanced to the Missouri State Competition.

Moncrieffe went on to win the State Championship in Lincoln-Douglas Debate, McConnell placed 3rd in Prose Reading, and Radosevic placed 4th in Radio Speaking.

The Coding Team took 1st place in the Beginners Division of the Kansas State University

Programming Contest, and the newly-reactivated Scholar Bowl Team of eight juniors and freshmen placed 4th out of 18 schools at the William Chrisman competition.

Students on the Model UN Team had the opportunity to travel to compete in the Arkansas Model UN Conference, and Rockhurst won Outstanding Delegation and also received Best Position Paper.

Each of the six team members were recognized individually as wither Outstanding Delegates or Honorable Mentions.

Six members of Rockhurst’s Speech & Debate Team earned top-3 finishes at the District competition and qualified for the State Tournament.

Levi McConnell '22, Isaiah Moncrieffe '22, Maddux Radosevic '23, Caleb Dawson '24, and Aidan O’Donnell '24 were all individual District Champions, and the team also won the Debate Sweepstakes.

Moncrieffe went on to win the State Championship in Lincoln-Douglas Debate, McConnell placed 3rd in Prose Reading, and Radosevic placed 4th in Radio Speaking.

Phil Helt '08 has coached Rockhurst’s Speech & Debate Team since 2014 and in 2022 was named the Missouri Show-Me District Coach of the Year. The recognition is made by nomination among fellow coaches in Rockhurst’s 21-team district and voted upon by a committee of peers representing Missouri.

Coach Helt also earned National Coach of the Year consideration.

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Athletics Continue Legacy of Success Athletics at Rockhurst High School serve as a great opportunity for young men to grow in their formation, friendships, teamwork, perseverance, and many other life lessons. More than 600 students choose to participate in one or more of the 11 varsity sports or two club sports offered at Rockhurst.

The 2021-22 school year has been a continuance in the standard of excellence set at Rockhurst.

The soccer team won its 8th State Championship in program history, finishing the season with a record of 24-2-0 and winning its final 16 games.

Defense was a key to success for the squad under the guidance of Coach Matt Darby '00 in his third year as head coach; Rockhurst allowed just 11 goals all season. Defender Ryder Barrett '22 and goalkeeper Ryan Thompson '22 were both named All-Americans.

The AquaHawks, Rockhurst’s swim & dive team, grew its dominant reputation throughout the state.

Rockhurst won its second straight State Championship and 13th overall, becoming the winningest swim & dive program in Missouri high school history; all 13 titles have come since 2005 with Coach Paul Winkeler at the helm. In 2021, all three relay teams placed 2nd and Caden Francois '23 took 2nd in the 100 Back and 100 Free, and Dominick Damico '22 was 2nd in the 100 Breast.

Rockhurst’s cross country team placed 4th out of 18 teams at the District Championship Meet and qualified for the State Championship Meet for the 15th consecutive season.

The Hawklets raced their way to a 7th place finish, led by All-State performances from Brian Humphrey '23 (21st) and Henry Acorn '25 (24th).

Loading the schedule with strong opponents both locally and regionally, the football team ended the season with a 4-6 record in a District Quarterfinal loss.

Rockhurst played tough all season and three losses were by one possession, with wins coming against Bishop Miege, Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit West, and Blue Springs South. Wide receiver Isaac Koch '22 was a 2nd Team All-State selection.

The Basketball Hawklets finished their season with a record of 15-11. They lost by four points to Raytown in the District Semifinals. The team was led by 1st Team All-District selections Miles White '22 (13 PPG and 6 RPG) and Andrew Sprague '24 (11 PPG and 7 RPG), and All-District Honorable Mention selection Brian Humphrey '23 (10 PPG and 3 RPG).

Rockhurst wrestling continued to improve throughout a season that was highlighted by dual wins over Ruskin, Raytown, North KC, and Miege. Eight of the team’s 10 District competitors were underclassmen, and the top returners for next season include Robert Purcell '24 and Gage Nelson '25.

The hockey team, a club sport at Rockhurst, plays in the Mid America High School Hockey League with nine other teams. The Hawklets advanced to the playoff semifinals and finished the season with a record of 12-8-2. Three players (Michael Boma '22, Andrew Finn '22, and Michael Torlina '24) were named 1st Team All-Conference and six players were named All-Conference Honorable Mention.

Rockhurst’s varsity spring sports (baseball, golf, lacrosse, tennis, and track & field) and club sport (volleyball) were still in-season at the time of print.

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