Rock News Fall 2023 by Rockhurst High School's Publications

THE ROCK NEWS

FALL 2023

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Table of Contents

Alumni Accomplishments

A Word from the President

Alumni Marriages, Births, Deaths

Messages to the Rockhurst Alumni Community

Fr. Edward Flaherty, SJ, ’36 Dies as Oldest Jesuit

Alumni Honored with Special Recognition

A Word from the Principal

Rockhurst Celebrates Alumni Reunion Week

Fr. Giacabazi, SJ, Makes Final Vows as Provincial Renews the Society’s Sponsorship of Rockhurst

New Members Inducted into Sports Hall of Fame

Ignatian Speaker Series Promotes Hope-Filled Future

Alumni Connect with Fellow Alumni, Students

Learning Commons Dedicated in Honor of Bob Kilker ’39

Alumni Maintain Bonds from Rockhurst

New Hawklets Welcomed to The Rock

Spectacular 2024 Set for April 20

Seniors Recognized by National Merit Program

Generous Support Aids Outdoor Lab Construction

Senior Stands Out at Missouri Boys State

William G. McGowan Charitable Fund Remains a True Partner in Programming

Students Make Marks in Co-Curriculars

Strategic Planning Updates

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Cost of Opting Out We have recently discovered that many members of our community are not receiving email communications from Rockhurst. In the majority of cases, this is because email addresses have been blocked by our software vendor (Blackbaud) resulting from an optout action you have taken, perhaps unintentionally. This may have been in response to an email communications from Rockhurst in the past. In order to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, Blackbaud blocks all future communications to the affected email addresses. Thus, by opting-out once, you are opted-out completely. However, we have worked with Blackbaud to enable you to opt back in and reestablish email communications. If you would like to reconnect with the school and resume receiving emails such as alumni communications, event invitations, special announcements, presidential communications, donor impact messages and e-newsletters, the following information will help you to do that. Because this is a state and federal compliance issue, you must take action by opting-in to these communications from Rockhurst. We cannot do this on your behalf.

TO OPT-IN, PLEASE FOLLOW THIS 2-STEP PROCESS: 1.

Using the email account that is currently blocked (or believed to be), send an email to contact@rockhursths.edu with the following information: -

Subject: Email Opt-in

Message: Please opt this email account in for communications from Rockhurst High School

(If you are opting-in for more than one account, please repeat this step for each email address affected

A member of our team will process the request within 1-2 business days. (This is handled by Rockhurst)

Once your request is processed you should receive an email from no-reply@blackbaud.com with the subject: Your UnblockMe@ email preferences request. This message may be diverted to your Junk Mail folder, so be sure to check there if it doesn’t appear in your inbox. -

The email will contain a link stating Click here to confirm your request.

Upon clicking the link, you will be presented with a confirmation page validating that your request was received, and that the process may take up to 24 hours for the change to take effect. (This is handled by Blackbaud)

We thank you for taking the time to reconnect with Rockhurst. If you have any questions about this process, please contact George Weir, Director of Data & Analytics at gweir@rockhursths.edu.

This publication includes updates from May through November 2023. Editions will be published in November/December and May/ June each year.

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A WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT

“... my visits with former students fill me with gratitude for the goodness of these men over time. I am heartened when they affirm the good they see in, and resulting from, Rockhurst.”

Dear Rockhurst Community, Back to the Future was a very popular movie in my younger days. It had sequels. I suspect most of you know about it. The flux capacitor, time travel, and all that. Fun. Returning to Rockhurst after being away for 13 years has been filled with many graces for me personally. Among those graces has been reengaging with the young alumni who were students when I served as Principal from 2000-2005. Fr. Tom Pesci, SJ, President Emeritus (and Rockhurst President from 1993-2004) and I have been able to travel to different locations around the country this fall and connect with alumni. It has been a special privilege to reconnect with the young alumni I once knew as students, as it is a privilege to connect with all of our alumni. Truly, I reflect that from the last time I shook their hand on the stage of Municipal Auditorium in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to seeing them today is like, well, dropping out of a time machine. Very often, they remind me of moments from their Rockhurst experience: •

“I recall that one time you called me into your office …”

•

“Do you remember the time you helped me with my graduation speech?”

•

“Everyone remembers when you had a chat with us in the gymnasium.”

•

“I’m so grateful benefactors made Rockhurst possible for me, thanks.”

Occasionally, I remember the moment, too. But, if I’m honest, sometimes I do not. And that is likely because my focus is recalling the young student they once were and consistently marveling at just how, with God’s help, they’ve grown into amazing men. Professionals, husbands, fathers, civic leaders, physicians. It is really pretty humbling. Whenever visiting with alumni I’m meeting for the first time, I like to ask: “So, tell me about how you got from the stage at Municipal Auditorium to today.” And then I just listen. The stories are remarkable, even if to the person, they may seem mundane. The hopes we have for Jesuit education in the boys we serve today have not changed. Our tradition calls for us to form the lives of our students according to Christ’s Gospel, for competence and leadership, and to build friendships that can extend into the future building for good in our society. While we aspire for the eternity of our graduates with God, we hope the foundation of their life as a “man for others” is our mission while they are with us. And my visits with former students fill me with gratitude for the goodness of these men over time. I am

heartened when they affirm the good they see in, and resulting from, Rockhurst. And, I am no less heartened when, at times, they share a critique — of me or The Rock. I feel immense gratitude that they still care enough to offer their opinion and what they offer as corrective guidance. So, although I don’t have a flux capacitor that Dr. Brown and Marty McFly developed in the movie, in many ways, I have been Back to the Future. Our school year theme is Toward a Hope-Filled Future. And, reconnecting with our alumni inspires me today to consider the future of today’s Hawklets in my former students. Our alumni fill me with hope. Our students fill me with hope. Our faculty, staff, and administration fill me with hope. Our Jesuits fill me with hope. Our benefactors fill me with hope. God gives us the gift of hope and Rockhurst High School works in collaboration with God’s Holy Spirit to live well into our tradition. It is also why we continue to work to promote a vision for our future, because it is hope-filled. To learn more about Rockhurst’s hope-filled future, visit www.rockhursths.edu/vision. Thank you for the witness of your lives. Thank you for your essential and generous support of our mission and our boys. Thank you to our dedicated faculty, staff, and administration, as well as our Board of Trustees. Thank you to our alumni for your continued and hopefully growing engagement. Thank you to the Society of Jesus for Rockhurst High School. May God bless you and those you love.

IN CHRIST,

DAVID J. LAUGHLIN | PRESIDENT ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

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A Word From the Alumni Association President My fellow alumni, I am honored and humbled to take over as president of the Rockhurst National Alumni Association Board of Governors. In following Frank Allen ’05, whose tremendous leadership left the Association strong, focused, and growing, I am grateful to serve with a Board of Governors dedicated to building vital connections among alumni - with Rockhurst High School and with the larger Kansas City community. Our Board of Governors is the broadest and most diverse group of alumni in Rockhurst history, spanning decades between us while bringing talent and dedication to Rockhurst. Each of us is profoundly grateful for what Rockhurst has given to us. We also know that our best work must include bringing the Rockhurst alumni network to all alumni. We understand that, as robust as the alumni network is, there are alumni who are not connected, who don’t benefit as so many of us have. Our Board believes that if we are to be “men for others” we must be men for ALL others. As Board members, this means we have an obligation to open up the Rockhurst alumni network – to make it accessible to all alumni, wherever they come from, wherever they are now, and whatever they are doing. Part of our job is to offer a place based on what St. Ignatius called “greater love than fear.”

Our Board has already started our work to strengthen our unique alumni network, understanding that every alumnus should enjoy The Rock network from which each of us has benefitted. From our RockConnect initiative to targeted alumni events in and out of town, the Board’s work to meet our alumni where they are will build the critical connections with each other, Rockhurst, and the community. It is a mission each of us takes seriously. As we begin this work, I invite each of you to reach out and connect – with each other, with the school, and with our larger community. AD MAJOREM DEI GLORIAM,

PATRICK A. MCINERNEY ’82 NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT

Pat McInerney ’82, National Alumni Association President, Meredith Suarez, Director of Alumni Engagement, and President David Laughlin (far right) pictured with Max Kaniger ’09 with the Emerging Hawklet Award and Dr. Kevin Cummings ’73 with the Alumnus of the Year Award at the Fr. Mario Purcielli, SJ, Alumni Spaghetti Dinner on November 2, 2023.

A Word From the Director of Alumni Engagement This year’s school theme is “Toward A Hope-Filled Future” as all of us – faculty, staff, parents, and our alumni community walk alongside our young men throughout their Rockhurst journey. I hope this edition of The Rock News fills you with nostalgia for your time as a student as well as hope and excitement for the experiences Rockhurst students enjoy today. This fall has been an exciting and fun time in our alumni community! In September, we celebrated our “3s and 8s” with Alumni Reunion Week activities, recognized the commitment of service of Dr. Kevin Cummings ’73 as Alumnus of the Year and Maxfield Kaniger ’09 as our inaugural Emerging Hawklet, and welcomed 50 alumni back to campus for “Alumni Talks” at the Freshman Retreat. In October, RockConnect hosted its first Coffee Networking event, and in November, we gathered again at the Fr. Mario Puricelli, SJ, Alumni Spaghetti Dinner and at the Alumni Mass of Remembrance. Over these past few months, you’ve shared some memories that made me smile, such as: “You have beet salad in the Dining Commons?” “Wow! This place looks amazing!” Or, a host of thought-provoking stories (and impressions!) of Coach Al Davis.

But what warms my heart even more than the silly stories are the reflections I hear from all facets of our alumni community. “College was easy because of Rockhurst.” “Rockhurst is where I learned to learn.” Or, “Seeing Rockhurst today makes me proud to be an alumnus.” This is what a hope-filled future looks like. YOU are proof that hope for the future is all around us and the impact of Rockhurst High School is timeless. Thank you for your trust in honoring your stories, for your gifts of time and financial support to sustain the Rockhurst Experience, and for being part of this very special Forever Brotherhood. AD MAJOREM DEI GLORIAM,

MEREDITH L. SUAREZ DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF GOVERNORS Mr. Patrick A. McInerney ’82 President

Mr. Andrew J. Miller ’16 At-Large Member

Mr. James C. Shay, III ’11 At-Large Member

Mr. Spencer H. Hardwick ’07 President-Elect

Mr. Ivan L. Nugent ’99 At-Large Member

Mr. Henry J. Thomas ’06 Nominating Committee Chair

Mr. Blaise A. Gassman ’16 Secretary; RockConnect Co-Chair

Mr. John R. Oades ’67 Volunteer Chair

Mr. James T. Van Dyke ’05 Stewardship & Engagement Co-Chair

Mr. Enrique I. Gutierrez ’98 At-Large Member

Mr. Nicholas J. Porto ’96 At-Large Member

Mr. James H. Maggard ’04 Stewardship & Engagement Co-Chair

Mr. Todd A. Schieffer ’9 0 RockConnect Co-Chair; Alumni Recognition Chair

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Dcn. Kevin Cummings ’73 offered the homily at the all-school Homecoming Mass.

Alumni Honored with Special Recognition The Alumni Recognition Committee of Rockhurst High School’s National Alumni Association was proud to celebrate two alumni for their outstanding commitments to the greater good of the Kansas City community. Continuing the annual tradition since 2002, one Alumnus of the Year was selected among nominations submitted by the Rockhurst alumni community. This award goes to an individual who honors the spirit, mission, and vision of the Society of Jesus through his dedication to being a “man for others” and by making significant contributions of time, talent, and treasure to Rockhurst High School and the community. Dr. Kevin Cummings ’73 was selected by the committee as the 2023 recipient. A practicing dentist for the last 37 years who also wanted to give back to the community and make dental care available for all, Dr. Cummings founded a dental clinic at Operation Breakthrough and scheduled himself as the solo dental provider there monthly for over 10 years. In addition, he used his dental profession

to assist on multiple mission trips, providing care in Guatemala, Panama City, Jamaica, Nepal, and Madagascar. Feeling a call to walk a closer path with God, he was ordained a deacon in the Catholic Church in 2011, and has selflessly cared for others, including through baptisms, weddings, and funerals. Dcn. Cummings also provides communion service to incarcerated individuals at the Kansas City Correctional Center. He started The Gabriel Project KC, a ministry aiding pregnant women in need, and then St. Mary’s Home for Mothers. This serves as a residence for up to 15 pregnant, homeless adult women and their children in the Greater Kansas City Metro Area. Dcn. Cummings identified a support system of benefactors and organized volunteers and staff, while raising more than $3 million to complete renovations of the St. Mary’s property, which offers a staff of a licensed therapist, social workers, and three religious sisters.

“With the help of some Rockhurst classmates, we opened St. Mary’s Home for Mothers, providing housing for women who are pregnant and homeless,” remarked Dcn. Cummings. “Rockhurst instilled not only the importance of serving others, but having a preferential desire to walk with the most vulnerable.” This year also marked the inaugural Emerging Hawklet Award, which celebrates the outstanding achievements of a young alumnus who has created a meaningful impact through exceptional leadership, service to others, and/or a commitment to excellence. The 2023 honoree - meeting all of those criteria was Max Kaniger ’09. Kaniger founded Kanbe’s Markets in Kansas City in 2017, a nonprofit organization working to build a more equitable food system. Seeing gaps in the food system regarding the relationship between food insecurity and food waste, Kanbe’s launched its premiere program, Healthy Corner Stores, in 2018.

With the knowledge of the food industry and growing partnerships within the community, Kaniger led Kanbe’s Markets in growing to over 40 Healthy Corner Stores across the east side of Kansas City, far exceeding the organization’s initial plan. The goal is now to reach 130 partner locations within the next three years and make Kansas City the first city in the country to eliminate food deserts. By the end of 2023, Kanbe’s will be situated in 50 partner corner stores providing fresh, healthy, and affordable produce to over 118,000 families throughout Kansas City. Fueled by love of his neighbors, Kaniger’s hope is to serve the community through the development and implementation of this new model for healthy food distribution, and is currently bringing this mission to fruition by delivering over 20,000 pounds of fresh, affordable fruits and vegetables every month to those in need. While providing healthy options

for thousands of families across the city, Kanbe’s is also reducing the amount of food going to waste. Kanbe’s is on track to redirect a total of more than one million pounds of produce from landfills back into the local communities.

They then joined the school’s Homecoming Mass celebration on September 26, in which Dcn. Cummings served as one of the celebrants and Kaniger shared his message of service to others with the Rockhurst student body.

“Being honored as the inaugural recipient of the Emerging Hawklet Award fills me with profound gratitude. This recognition is a testament to the enduring impact of the values instilled in me during my time at Rockhurst,” reflected Kaniger. “Through my work at Kanbe’s, driven by the core belief of becoming ‘men for others’, I am humbled to contribute to building a more equitable food system, guided by the spirit of compassion, competence, and conscience that Rockhurst has ingrained in me.”

A final celebration took place on November 2 at the annual Fr. Mario Puricelli, SJ Alumni Spaghetti Dinner, with more than 150 fellow alumni, family and friends of Dr. Cummings and Kaniger in attendance to honor the two selfless men.

Dr. Cummings and Kaniger were invited back to Rockhurst to receive their awards on September 8 as part of Alumni Reunion Week.

Dr. Kevin Cummings ’73 (middle) was celebrated as the 2023 Alumnus of the Year during Alumni Reunion Week. He is pictured with Meredith Suarez (left) and President David Laughlin (right).

Nominations are now open for the 2024 Alumnus of the Year and Emerging Hawklet Award. To nominate a Rockhurst alumnus for either award, visit www.rockhursths.edu/alumni/recognition by May 1, 2024.

Max Kaniger ’09 (middle) was celebrated as the 2023 Emerging Hawklet during Alumni Reunion Week. He is pictured with Meredith Suarez (left) and President David Laughlin (right).

Max Kaniger ’09 spoke to the student body about living as “men for others” beyond Rockhurst at the Homecoming Mass.

Rockhurst Celebrates Alumni Reunion Week More than 600 alumni and family members returned to The Rock over September 6-9, 2023 for Rockhurst High School’s annual Alumni Reunion Week celebration.

Hawklets’ game against Liberty North. Rockhurst also honored its Alumni Award winners and Sports Hall of Fame inductees read more about each in this edition.

“This year, we’ve been talking a lot about the importance of connection, and what better way to strengthen and celebrate the bonds of brotherhood than Reunion Week at The Rock!” said Meredith Suarez, Director of Alumni Engagement. “Reunion Week is filled to the brim with meaningful connections and fun. A shared sense of pride and nostalgia filled the hallways throughout Reunion Week, for the memories made and the impact Rockhurst continues to have on students today.”

Rockhurst hosted the Alumni Mass in the Chapel of the Sacred Heart celebrated by Fr. Michael Sheeran, SJ, ’57, Dcn. Kevin Cummings ’73, Fr. Joe Sharbel ’73, and Fr. Marco Marchlewski, SJ, on Saturday evening, followed by a reception in the Pesci Atrium. The Alumni Soccer Match was also played in the evening on Severino Field at Dasta Memorial Stadium. On-campus reunion celebrations were held for the great Classes of 1968 and 1973.

Alumni were invited back to campus for various events, including Wednesday’s student-led tours and group lunch. Attendees were greeted by a warm (and surprise) welcome from current students as they entered the Dining Commons.

The remaining individual classes organized gatherings Saturday night to cap off the Reunion Week festivities.

“This was our 50th year reunion and many of my classmates had not been in the school for 50 years. They were all amazed at the transitions that had taken place,” said Mike Hilboldt ’73. “Those who attended the Wednesday tour and lunch were impressed with the new choices in curriculum and learning opportunities for the students. But the highlight was the greeting we received from the students as we entered the dining hall… it caught all of us by surprise and was heartwarming!” On Thursday evening, alumni gathered for the Chiefs’ Home Opener Watch Party at The Well in Waldo, owned by Chris Lewellen ’86. Friday evening featured the Alumni Football Tailgate on the Al Davis, Jr. Field with a picnic buffet prior to the Football

Twenty-five Rockhurst Soccer alumni played in the annual Alumni Soccer Match.

“The visiting we were able to do together as classmates, having the chance to retell stories from long ago, and getting reconnected with classmates, that all made for a wonderful reunion week,” said Bill Oades ’68. “Staying in touch with classmates brings joy as well as fond memories. There is a definite sense of pride in being a Rockhurst alumnus, brought about by the wonderful things going on at the school in academics, service in the community, and co-curricular successes.” Alumnus Terry McGraw ‘73, celebrating his 50th reunion, shared these words, which seemed to speak to a collectively shared experience: “Rockhurst is a very special place for me. I would like to re-enroll ten more times. Best time of my life. Best friends of my life. Best experience of my life. I love Rockhurst.”

Alumni attended Mass in the Chapel of the Sacred Heart on Saturday evening, which was celebrated by Fr. Michael Sheeran, SJ, ’57.

Current students welcomed Rockhurst alumni who returned to campus for the Alumni Reunion Week luncheon on Wednesday, September 6.

Members of the great Class of 1973 celebrated their 50th Jubilee with a class reception in the Hawklets Center.

Alumni gathered at The Well in Waldo to watch the Chiefs’ season opener.

The great Class of 1968 enjoyed its 55th reunion, which culminated in a class dinner on Saturday night in McGee Hall.

NEW MEMBERS INDUCTED

INTO SPORTS HALL OF Rockhurst High School’s Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1991 by coach and athletic director, Al Davis, Jr., and Mike Lillis ’56. The Hall of Fame recognizes alumni, coaches, and friends who have had a major impact on the school’s athletic tradition. With the induction of seven new members on September 8, 2023 during Alumni Reunion Week, the Sports Hall of Fame now includes 149 members of Rockhurst’s storied athletic tradition, celebrated over the last 32 years. All alumni nominees must have graduated from Rockhurst at least 15 years prior to consideration by the Hall of Fame Selection Committee. The 2023 Sports Hall of Fame class included Coach Mark Nusbaum (basketball and golf), Lester Ratcliff ’84 (track & field), Justin Dro ’97 (football and track & field), Jon Lecuyer ’01 (lacrosse), Ryan Reid ’03 (tennis), Allan Smith ’05 (football), and Phillip Strozier ’06 (football and basketball).

F FAME

Rockhurst inducted its seven newest members to the Sports Hall of Fame on September 8, 2023. Pictured left to right between Fr. Tom Pesci, SJ, President Emeritus, and David Laughlin, President: Coach Mark Nusbaum, Phil Strozier ’06, Allan Smith ’05, Ryan Reid ’03, Jon Lecuyer ’01, Justin Dro ’97, and Lester Ratcliff ’84.

To nominate an alumnus, coach, or fan for the Rockhurst Sports Hall of Fame, visit www.rockhursths.edu/hof/nominate.

Highlight accomplishments for the 2023 inductees include: COACH MARK NUSBAUM Head basketball coach for 14 seasons (1999-2013) 284-110 record Five Final Four appearances; State Champions in 2013 Eight seasons as head golf coach; two State Championships, two runners-up

LESTER RATCLIFF ’84 All-State in 100m and 200m as a senior Set school records in 60m, 100m, 200m, and 400m Member of school record 4x100 and 4x200 relays All-Metro Hon. Men. on 1983 State Championship football team

JUSTIN DRO ’97 Three-year starter at lineman on football team All-District, All-Metro, 1st team All-State as a senior Bukaty Award winner and KC Star Scholar-Athlete Placed 2nd at State in shot put in junior and senior seasons

JON LECUYER ’01 Four-year starting defender in lacrosse and two-time captain Led Rockhurst to four straight Final Fours 1st Team All-Conference and All-State three seasons Named to US Lacrosse National All-Star Game

RYAN REID ’03 Four-time All-State doubles player Two-time doubles State Champion Combined record of 51-2 in junior and senior seasons Member of four team State Championships

ALLAN SMITH ’05 Remains program’s career sacks leader (26) Two-time 1st Team All-State defensive end Buck Buchanan Award winner for best linebacker or lineman in KC PrepStar and SuperPrep All-American as a senior

PHILLIP STROZIER ’06 Two-time 1st Team All-State defensive back KC Metro Defensive Player of the Year as a senior Led basketball team to two Final Fours as 2nd Team All-State guard Team went 48-14 in his junior and senior seasons

Rockhurst classes enjoyed the Reunion Week Football Tailgate. Clockwise: Class of 1983, Class of 2003, Class of 2008, and Class of 2013.

Connor McDonough ’05, Matt Switzer ’05, Coach Frank Lyngar, and Allan Smith ’05 shared Rock Football memories on the Hall of Fame induction night. Switzer later wrote to Lyngar: “No doubt some of my best memories are of playing for you and getting to play alongside Connor and Allan; and you got to create those memories for so many others over your many years of service. Thank you for all your years of teaching and coaching, you are part of the reason that Rockhurst is such a strong institution and keeps us coming back 18 years later.”

Alumni Connect with Fellow Alumni, Students While the Rockhurst experience technically only lasts four years, it’s a lifelong brotherhood that bridges all ages and class years. Following graduation, Rockhurst men are always welcome - and encouraged to return to campus. That does not just entail reunion events, but also accepting opportunities to connect with fellow alumni and even current students. In the first semester of the 2023-24 school year alone, there were many ways for alumni to take advantage of these connection opportunities. RockConnect is an initiative that was established in spring 2023 to garner professional connections and career guidance. Following the kick-off event in April, the committee of nine alumni have continued to meet and formalize the program. The first RockConnect coffee was hosted on September 21 at the offices of Van Noy Real Estate (David Van Noy ’99). Committee cochairman Todd Schieffer ’90 shared his perspective on utilizing the Rockhurst alumni network before the large group of professionals broke into small groups to make personal introductions and connections. Schieffer co-founded RockConnect along with Blaise Gassman ’16.

Ewing Marion Kauffman School for 10 years and also co-founded BLOC (Brothers Liberating Our Communities). The following month, Mike Kelly ’04 discussed his career in Government. Kelly currently serves as the Chair of the Johnson County Board of Commissioners and was previously the Mayor of Roeland Park, KS from 2018 through 2022. He explained his aspirations to improve local communities and his commitment to stick to core values throughout the complexities of politics. James Grimaldi ’80 is a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist (with a third Pulitzer as part of a as part of a larger team) and generously offered a morning of his time to work with Rockhurst students. Grimaldi is a twotime Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist (with a third Pulitzer as part of a larger team) and is currently a Senior Writer with The Wall Street Journal. Owning an impressive range of research and writing skills, he spoke with Hawklets in Journalism, English, and Social Studies classes.

me and my future career in journalism,” said Grimaldi. “I hope that current students could take inspiration and come away with a better understanding of the importance of investigative journalism in our democracy and its potential for making our society a better place - all in the mode of ‘men for others’.” The Freshman Retreat is a very important event for many new students at Rockhurst. Many enter the school without knowing any of their new classmates, or can be overwhelmed by the expectations. Oftentimes, it serves as the experience that gets students fully integrated and excited about The Rock. Alumni help make this a memorable time by serving as small group speakers, and sharing how attending Rockhurst impacted their lives, academically, socially, and spiritually. This year, nearly 50 alumni served as speakers to freshman small groups during the retreat. To get more involved in Rockhurst alumni opportunities, contact Meredith Suarez, Director of Alumni Engagement, at msuarez@rockhursths.edu.

“In my four years at Rockhurst, I wrote for every edition of The Prep News probably something never done before or since. It was a formative experience for

For many alumni, the most rewarding experiences are those shared with current students. Having gone through Rockhurst themselves, alumni offering their stories and advice can be valuable to today’s Hawklets. A great outlet for this has been the Alumni Career Panels, a monthly student-led conversation that features an alumnus speaking about his job in a particular field. In September, Cornell Ellis ’08 spoke about careers in Education. Ellis has a special perspective because he admittedly didn’t discover his interest in education until his mid-20s, so his message was to “continually seek out your own passions and explore them intently.” Ellis has taught English at the

Cornell Ellis ’08 spoke with Rockhurst students interested in Education as part of the ongoing Alumni Career Panel in September. The conversation was led by Josh Story ’25.

James Grimaldi ’80 visited with Rockhurst students in Journalism, English, and Social Studies classes on October 6 (pictured with Mr. Mike Holmes’ English 4 class). Grimaldi is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist.

Nearly 50 alumni attended the RockConnect coffee event on September 21, hosted by David Van Noy ’99 at the offices of Van Noy Real Estate.

Jalen Montgomery ’10 was one of more than 50 alumni who volunteered to share their Rockhurst experiences with the Class of 2027 as part of their Freshman Retreat.

Mike Kelly ’04 participated in the October edition of the Alumni Career Panel, talking with students about Government. Jake Wier ’24 led the discussion.

Rockhurst alumni in New York City visited Xavier High School on November 7 for a Rockhurst alumni event.

Dave Nichols ’68 hosted a Fort Collins, Colo. event on October 11.

The great Class of 1967 meets monthly, and enjoyed a group lunch at Marco Polo on July 13.

Dick Taylor, Don Foley, Bob Reintjes, Judge Bill Mauer, and Jim O’Connor of the great Class of 1949 stay connected through monthly luncheons, like this one in September.

Alumni living in Washington, D.C. met for an event at the home of Doug Kramer ’89 on October 4.

Denver-area alumni met on October 12 for a Rockhurst gathering.

The Ties that Bind:

Our Rock Solid Brotherhood Throughout the year, Rockhurst High School hosts many alumni events to keep its graduates tied to their alma mater. Beyond that, individual classes plan additional events for their own Hawklet classmates, This includes members of Rockhurst’s great Class of 1949 continuing to meet every month for luncheons here in Kansas City. At a recent gathering, Dick Taylor, Don Foley, Bob Reintjes, Judge Bill Mauer, and Jim O’Connor enjoyed catching up with their Rockhurst brothers.

Neenan ’04 collaborated with fellow Jesuit school Xavier High School to host an evening gathering on its campus for New York City area alumni. To share photos of your own class gatherings and connections, contact Robbie Haden ‘09, Director of Communications & Branding, at rhaden@rockhursths.edu.

These gentlemen and other 1949 graduates will join together for their 75th reunion during the 2024 Alumni Reunion Week. The great Class of 19 67 is another group of Hawklet alumni who meet monthly to reminisce on the glory days. Every other month they can be found at Marco Polo for lunch; in the intervening months they gather for a happy hour at Tavern Mission Farms. The group also plans an annual holiday dinner together and miscellaneous other social events throughout the year. The great Class of 1968 also organizes occasional meet-ups to stay involved in each others’ lives. They met for lunch at Loose Park in June. Attendees included Dick Mathews, Bill O’Connor, Bob Wholey, Charlie Halterman, Jim Mitchell, Terry McNamara, Mike Pierron, Joe Dukich, Mike Saunders, Frank Martin, John McCarthy, and Bill Oades. Members of the great Class of 1973 have been getting together monthly for approximately six years. They noted that as a result, classmates have reconnected after many years, while being able to celebrate new accomplishments and help support one another when tragedy has struck a classmate. They shared that “our years at Rockhurst bound us together for life.” Knowing that many alumni live all over the world, Rockhurst alumni have helped coordinate out-of-town gatherings this fall. President David Laughlin and President Emeritus Fr. Tom Pesci, SJ, traveled to meet alumni cohorts in various cities across the country. On October 4, Jim Scott Polsinelli ’88 and Doug Kramer ’89 hosted an event for alumni in Washington, D.C. This group of 20 Rockhurst graduates of all ages included young alumni Tommy Tietjen ’21, Lukas Pitman ’23, and August Thompson ’23, all students at Georgetown University.

Recent Rockhurst graduates remain close while in college. Eddie Kuklenski ’22, Caleb Teeven ’23, Andrew Finn ’22, Brock Narciso ’23, and Patrick Franke ’22 attended a Boston College football game this fall. Kuklenski, Teeven, and Franke go to BC; Finn goes to Bryant University; and Narciso goes to Trinity College.

Upcoming Alumni Gathering in Phoenix, Arizona January 31, 2023 Hosted by Brooke & Kevin Kopp ’9 3 Special guests President David Laughlin and President Emeritus Fr. Tom Pesci, SJ Questions? Contact Kelly Herdlick at kherdlick@rockhursths.edu

They then headed west for events in Colorado. Dave Nichols ’68 hosted a group at High Country Beverage in Fort Collins on October 11. The following night, Mike Euston ’01, Jonathan Bax ’93, and Charlie Rhoades ’98 co-hosted an event in Denver where alumni watched as the Chiefs defeated the Broncos. On November 7, Rob Hess ’79, Marc Scrivo ’95, and Ben

Members of the great Class of 1968 met for lunch at Loose Park on June 15.

SPECTACULAR 2024

SAVE THE DATE

Set for April 20

Mark your calendar! Rockhurst’s Spectacular will be spectacular all over again on Saturday, APRIL 20, 2024. Spectacular is the largest fundraiser in support of the school’s $2.7 million financial assistance program for families - and will become even more critical to the school’s success as we have promised to meet 100% of verified financial need for students beginning with the 2024-25 Academic Year. You are able to participate in Spectacular 2024 in many ways: sponsor and attend the event, purchase a raffle share, join us at one (or more!) gift gathering parties, and much more! Natalie & Kyle Hartman ’91 and Christy & Mike Poe return as our Legacy Co-Chair Couples. They are joined by Adrienne & Chris Helvey and Annie & John Houlehan ’95. Stay up-to-date on all things Spectacular at www.rockhursths.edu/auction.

Top: President David Laughlin and Fr. Principal Vincent Giacabazi, SJ, served as the masters of ceremony at the 2023 Spectacular Auction, which benefits the nearly 50% of all Rockhurst families that rely on tuition assistance for their sons.

Bottom: The Spectacular 2024 Co-Chair Couples are Adrienne & Chris Helvey, Annie & John Houlehan ’95, Christy & Mike Poe, and Natalie & Kyle Hartman ’91.

Generous Support Aids Outdoor Lab Construction A picturesque work in progress since 2021, the Jack Nestor ’34 Outdoor Lab Classroom is nearing completion. The space was named early-on following a gift made in Nestor’s memory and honor by his daughter, Colleen Enna. Then, in January 2022, Lindsey and Matt Smith ‘00 made a significant unrestricted operating gift to the school.

Fr. Principal Vincent Giacabazi, SJ, led a blessing out the newly-dedicated space.

“Outdoor learning has such obvious physical and psychological benefits to students who have the opportunity and access,” said Matt Smith. “It wasn’t until a little [after we made our gift] that we learned about the intentional and extraordinary plans to make this into a fully functional outdoor laboratory. After seeing that, we were excited to be a part of something so transformational for the students and teachers alike.” In appreciation for their financial generosity as well as their understanding of how such a space could be used for experiential education, the interior wall of “windows to the world” is named in their honor. On Monday, September 25, just weeks into the 2023-24 school year – the second year that the Nestor Outdoor Lab Classroom has been functional – a ceremonial blessing of the space took place with science students and special guests including the Smiths as well as his parents, Melinda and Phil Smith. A formal dedication involving Jack Nestor’s children and grandchildren will take place in the second semester as coordinated with the family.

Lindsey and Matt Smith ’00 were proud supporters of the construction of the Outdoor Lab Classroom, and their generosity was celebrated at the dedication of the space on September 25.

The space was first proposed by Paul Winkeler, Science Department Chair, who originally conceptualized the space, which was then designed by Epic Landscaping and implemented under the leadership of John DeGraffenried, Director of Facilities Management. As Winkeler’s proposal became reality, the Nestor Outdoor Lab Classroom is actively used by the Rockhurst community for classes, meetings, retreats, and gatherings. Included in the physical reconfiguration is an artistic tribute to Jesuit scientists, a butterfly waystation in the shape of a Kairos cross, the Deb and Larry Krissek (‘74) Regional Native Grassland Area, the Class of 2021 Discovery Pond, a Hawklet statue gifted by the Class of 2022, a greenhouse, and all-seasons furniture.

Dr. Philip Nahlik, SJ, is one of the many teachers who utilizes the Outdoor Lab Classroom for lessons and student work.

“The Outdoor Lab Classroom is a space where students can do science in a natural environment. The skills they acquire in the classroom can be applied here in this space, helping students understand the world they live in,” said Winkeler. There are still sponsorship and naming opportunities available in the Jack Nestor ’34 Outdoor Lab Classroom. For more information, contact Dr. Diane Marty, Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement, at dmarty@rockhursths.edu or 816.363.2036 x538. Paul Winkeler, Science Department Chair, explained the importance of a natural environment for students to study and learn.

The Hurtado Scholars Program is in its 11th year at Rockhurst High School and currently serves 33 boys in the middle school program, as well as 33 graduates who are now Rockhurst students. The middle schoolers enjoyed a pumpkin carving contest on October 21.

William G. McGowan Charitable Fund Remains a True Partner in Programming This 2023-24 school year marks the 11th year of student enrollments in the Hurtado Scholars Program (HSP). It also marks the 11th year of significant support from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, Inc. (Chicago, IL). Since the beginning of the program, the Fund has invested significant resources into HSP, with their gift quickly becoming a challenge grant to the Rockhurst community, matching gifts to the program dollar for dollar. The original grant was intended to catalyze awareness of the program as well as to jump-start funding for the program. In the time since the first McGowan grant, a by-product of their investment has been the foundation laid toward sustainable funding for the program. Since 2012 with their first HSP grant,

over the course of the fund’s decade-plus investment, they’ve provided $780,000. In the same period, Rockhurst donors contributed $6,858,751 through outright gifts, multi-year pledges, and Board-designated invested funds, generating a 114% return on the Fund’s overall investment (life to date). An additional gift the Fund has provided to Rockhurst is this: they have remained a faithful investment partner in the Hurtado Scholars Program. “It’s energizing to interact with an organization that constantly endeavors to ameliorate their process,” remarked Brian McGowan, Treasurer of the McGowan Charitable Fund. “Rockhurst is incessantly moving forward with metric driven decisions. It’s a breath of fresh air for the William G. McGowan

Charitable Foundation in collaborating with Rockhurst over twelve years.” As they have watched the program grow, they have likewise understood the basic tenet that with that growth, expenses also grew. This year alone, program direct costs total $859,812. And this year, the McGowan Charitable Fund has just issued an increased challenge grant of $130,000 to support the 2023-24 Hurtado Scholars Program. Thanks to their continued generosity, from now until we meet the challenge, donor investment to the Hurtado Scholars Program will once again be doubled by the McGowan Fund, up to a total of $130,000, thereby raising $260,000, or nearly onethird of programming costs for the current year. If you would like to use the QR code on this page to contribute toward the McGowan Challenge, we also invite you to send along any words of gratitude you’d like us to share with our partners at the McGowan Fund (in the comments section if

you make an online gift), for the significant investment they’ve made; for their deep imprint on Rockhurst for the community of belonging they’ve helped us create; or to express your own personalized gratitude.

Strategic Planning Updates Since the last report-out of the strategic planning process through the publication of the Vision document (late Spring 2023, visit www.rockhursths.edu/vision) and the shared news of $16.5 million of Visionary Investments already committed to the vision, we are pleased to share the following:

Announcement #1 We have announced plans, in alignment with the priorities set by leaders and volunteers to date, to meet 100% of verified financial aid required by families to attend Rockhurst beginning in the 2024-25 academic year. This action is supported both by the Board of Trustees, led by David Staker ’88 and also by the Visionary Investments, in coordination with the donors behind those transformational gifts. This action is forged under all four of the pillars guiding our planning: our Jesuit, Catholic Identity, in that we are committed to making education and formation accessible to all who aspire to be at Rockhurst; Formation of the Whole Person through our daily mission work; Excellence and Innovation that surrounds our young men with top-of-class faculty as teachers, mentors, and role models each committed to walk with our Hawklets toward hope-filled futures; and Community Engagement, that our outreach invites all with their unique talents and gifts to participate and collaborate.

Critically and strategically, this step puts Rockhurst at the forefront of insuring that young men are admitted to Rockhurst based upon their ability to succeed and not their family’s economic circumstances, Catholic education and formation in the Jesuit tradition as we are the only private secondary school making this promise to our students and their families in the metro area. Read more about this exciting initiative at www. rockhursths.edu/aid/100. And please note that this initiative of support can only work if the Rockhurst community of family and friends continues to show its generous love and support by offering almost $5 million annually. This total has not changed in terms of our annual fiscal operation, but is critical as a partner to the new $16.5 M in visionary gifts.

Announcement #2 We have engaged with Redwood Advisors (Austin, TX), led by partner, founder, and Rock alumnus John Nantz ’05 to moderate our stakeholders – inclusive of internal members of the faculty and staff as well as external volunteers, donors, and experts in aligned work and fields – in small group discussions, prioritization of items resulting from those discussions, and ultimately in presenting those whittled priorities to the Board of Trustees to create our actionable roadmap from now through 2030 (and likely beyond). The small groups consist, in total, of more than 65 internal and external stakeholders. The groups and their volunteer leadership include: •

Academics & Professional Student Success, co-chaired by Ken Felter ‘68 and Mike Wickenhauser, Assistant Principal for Curriculum, Instruction, and Supervision

•

Formation of the Whole Person, co-chaired by Shannon Lillis, Trustee and Matt Darby ‘00, Assistant Principal & Dean of Students

•

Athletics, co-chaired by Mike Garrett, Trustee and Tom Kruse (Faculty Member, Coach, and Manager of External Facilities Rentals)

•

Accessibility & Affordability, co-chaired by Amy Holewinski, Trustee and Allen Roberson ‘84, Chief Financial Officer and Vice President Administration

The moderated group discussions kicked off in November and will meet four times throughout the year, per the graphic above right, anticipating that we will be able to publish our completed Strategic Plan by Summer 2024.

Luke McNamara ’24 designed “Hope-Filled Future” stickers for Rockhurst alumni and benefactors.

Alumni Accomplishments Pat Mason ’17 was featured in the Martin City Telegraph on Sept. 10, 2023 for the legacy he created at Rockhurst High School. Mason was one of 10 students in Rockhurst’s first graduating class in 1917 and would go on to leave a lasting impact on the athletic programs of Rockhurst High and Rockhurst College/University. Bill Dunn, Sr. ’40 celebrated his 100th birthday on July 20, 2023. He is the patriarch of four generations (and counting!) of the Dunn Family at Rockhurst, and his generosity has greatly benefitted The Rock and the greater Kansas City community. Greg Joseph ’64 and his wife, Mary, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 21, 2023. The couple, residing in Sun City, AZ, has three children and two granddaughters. Joseph is a retired journalist and television critic. Dr. Jim Grigsby ’68, Professor in the Departments of Psychology and Medicine at the University of Colorado Denver, published a textbook titled Handbook of Medical Hallucinogens, working with co-editors and colleagues on a guidebook for the use of psychedelics as adjuncts to psychotherapy. Dr. Grigsby is a co-primary investigator on the first large research grant funded by the National Institutes of Health involving a large clinical trial of psilocybin. The aim is to assess the effectiveness of this psychedelic to improve quality of life among people with late-stage cancer. Steve Sullivan ’73 is the Road Manager of the national R&B band, Con Funk Shun, known for 70’s and 80’s hits like “Ffun”, “Chase Me”, and “Love’s Train”. Con Funk Shun is on the road this year for almost 50 dates for the “Smooth Jukebox” Tour.

Jay Haden ’74 retired from the Jackson County (MO) Counselor’s Office on June 30, 2023, after more than 40 years in county government. During this time, Haden worked on most legal issues affecting the county, including legislation, land use, civil rights, elections, contracts, and a wide range of other matters. He also served more than 30 years in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve, having retired in 2016 as a Colonel, including year-long tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Terence O’Malley ’76 wrote and directed the movie Nelly Don ~ The Musical Movie, which was released on Sept. 29, 2023. The movie tells the incredible story of Nelly Don (O’Malley’s great-aunt) and the fashion revolution she ignited from Kansas City in the early-1900s when Nelly Don-brand dresses sold more than any other brand in the world. Frank Bednar ’77 was among the 14 honorees of the Kansas City Business Journal’s 2023 CFO of the Year Award. Bednar has served as CFO of Rx Savings Solutions since 2016. His previous work included positions at KPMG, Hallmark, Premium Financing Specialists, McGuire Mortgage, Innovision, Balance Innovations, and Quest Diagnostics. Gibb Kerr ’81 was inducted into Midwest Real Estate News’ Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame. Kerr is the Managing Principal of the Kansas City, MO office of Cushman & Wakefield. Kerr has been a catalyst and evangelist for Downtown Kansas City’s revitalization for the past three decades, including brokering transactions that have led to more than $1.1 billion in new development. Emmet Pierson, Jr. ’84 was included on Ingram’s Magazine’s list of “50 Missourians You Should Know.” Pierson is the President & CEO of Community Builders of Kansas City, working with local neighborhoods to strengthen families and transform communities, as the city’s largest urban-core developer. Since 1991, CBKC has invested $225 million in urban renewal. He is also the Board Chair of the Black Community Fund, a benefactor of Rockhurst High School.

Bill Conway ’88 began his new role as the Managing Director of RobinBrown Corporate Financial on Sept. 19, 2023. He previously was the Managing Director of CC Capital Advisors, and has advised clients on M&A, capital raising, and strategic advisory transactions totaling over $3.5 billion.

Jason Crain ’05 was honored as an Atlanta Dealmaker of the Year at the Smart Business Dealmakers Conference. Crain is the President of Slutty Vegan, Inc., a plantbased burger joint. Previously, he held positions at Amazon, Google, and Shazam. Crain also founded Partpic, Inc., which was later acquired by Amazon.

Mike Rader ’9 0 was listed in the “Top 10 Trucking Accident Trial Lawyers” by The National Trial Lawyers. Rader is a partner at Bartimus Frickleton Robertson Rader. He also serves on the Missouri governing board for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and volunteers with Missouri Special Olympics.

Grant Harrison ’05 was named Executive Vice President of VanTrust Real Estate LLC and will lead its Kansas City development team. Harrison joined the VanTrust team in 2010 and most recently was Senior Director of Development. His portfolio of development projects over that time has surpassed 8.5 million square feet of office, medical office, retail, and industrial space.

Angelo Trozzolo ’93 was included on Ingram’s Magazine’s list of “50 Missourians You Should Know.” Trozzolo is the President & CEO of Trozzolo Communications, one of the Midwest’s premier independent marketing communications agencies, employing more than 80 people. Matt Thomas ’97 is the Chairman of the Catholic Committee on Scouting (CCS) in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Thomas earned his Eagle Scout award as a teenager, and now his kids have earned their Eagle awards as well. He still felt the calling to continue doing his duty to God and his country beyond the participation of his kids, and making a larger impact beyond the troop level. Luke McLellan ’00 and Tim Nendick ’08, both Rockhurst High School teachers, led a group of 31 travelers on an excursion over the summer that included stops at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt and climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The group included 17 Rockhurst alumni. Fr. Matt Nagle ’03 was assigned as Pastor of Mater Dei Parish in Topeka, KS. Fr. Nagle was most recently Chaplain/Deacon of Didde Catholic Campus Center in Emporia, KS and Pastor of St. Mary Parish in Hartford, KS.

PJ Thompson ’06 and Andrew Brain ’09 were two of 25 honorees of the Kansas City Business Journal’s 2023 NextGen Leaders, selected by a panel of six judges from a pool of hundreds of nominations and applicants. Thompson was named CFO of Country Club Bank in December 2022, and Brain is the CEO and Founder of Brain Group, a real estate company specializing in identifying unique and undervalued assets for repositioning and/or redevelopment. Scott Bluhm ’07 and John Hoefer ’09 were promoted to Principals at Newmark Zimmer. Both work in the sales and leasing division, as Bluhm specializes in Industrial and Logistics and Hoefer specializes in Office Brokerage. Bluhm and Hoefer have been with the Newmark Zimmer companies for 12 years and 8 years, respectively.

Spencer Hardwick ’07 was named to the Kansas City Business Journal’s list of “20 People to Know in Nonprofits.” Hardwick is the Executive Director of the Bluford Healthcare Leadership Institute, which cultivates and develops a pipeline of leaders among minority and underrepresented communities through internships and speakers. He is also President-Elect of the Rockhurst High School National Alumni Association Board of Governors. Cornell Ellis ’08 was among the 30 individuals from the Kansas City area chosen to be members of the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City’s 2023-24 Kansas City Tomorrow leadership class. Ellis is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Brothers Liberating Our Communities (BLOC), an organization working to increase the representation of Black males in education. Fr. Viet Nguyen ’08 was assigned as Pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Onaga, St. Patrick Parish in Corning, and St. Bede Parish in Kelly (all in Kansas). Fr. Nguyen was most recently Parochial Vicar for Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, KS. Tommy Nigro ’08 was nominated as a Rising Star by the American Association of Private Lenders. Nigro is the COO of North Oak Investment LLC and has led the company through a period of significant growth, leveraging advanced financial tools, establishing North Oak Investment as a REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust), and business acumen to provide unique lending solutions for the modern investor. Chandler Smith ’11 placed seventh at the 2023 CrossFit Games in Madison, WI. Smith was consistent throughout all six events among 40 finalists from across the globe who qualified for the opportunity to compete. This was Smith’s fourth Finals appearance and his second best finish (6th Place in 2020). Smith also had his own PUMA shoe release on July 28, 2023. Through the partnership with the brand, Smith has led an effort to raise $40,000 to charities over the last two years, including veteran organizations (Smith attended the United States Military Academy at West Point).

Garrett Loehr ’13 was named the Assistant Goalkeeper Coach for the Western Michigan University’s men’s soccer team. He previously served as Assistant Goalkeeper Coach for Minot State. Loehr played collegiate soccer at Rockhurst University from 2013-17 and then played for FC Denver, the top adult-amateur soccer club in Denver for the 2019-20 season. Fr. David Wilcox ’13 was ordained into the priesthood of the Episocpalian Diocese of Western Missouri on July 15, 2023. Fr. Wilcox prepared for ordination at the School of Theology of the University of the South in Sewanee, TN. Luke Ritter ’15 was the Eastern League Player of the Week on June 12. He is a second baseman for the New York Mets’ minor league organization. Over six games with the Double-A affiliate from June 5-11, Ritter batted .375 with a double, a triple, five home runs, and 12 RBIs. As a result, he was calledup to the Triple-A team in Syracuse for the remaining 64 games of the season. Zach Croake ’18 started a new role as an Associate at MMG Real Estate Advisors in Kansas City. Croake graduated from the University of Kansas with a bachelor’s degree in Finance. He has work experience at Arvest Bank as a Finance Intern and at Lockton Companies as an Associate Account Manager. Krishon Harris ’18 joined the STEAM Studio Board. He has been actively involved in STEAM Studio since 2014, starting as a volunteer while a student at Rockhurst and then at UMKC. Harris is a real estate agent at ReeceNichols. Paul Odu ’18 was awarded with the highlycompetitive Mark Twain Fellowship from the University of Missouri. It supports one senior or recent graduate to pursue a graduate study outside of North America in any discipline, and comes with a $50,000 scholarship. Odu majored in Economics and Constitutional Democracy with a minor in History, and graduated from Mizzou in 2022. He hopes to use the award money to participate in a graduate study program at the University of Cambridge in England.

Ben Cadenas ’19 joined Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) as a Broker Associate on the Industrial Brokerage Team. JLL is a firm specializing in real estate and investment management. Cadenas graduated from the University of Kansas with a Finance degree in 2023. Reed Levi ’19 was named to the 2023 American Football Coaches Association’s Good Works Team. Levi is a senior tight end at Benedictine College who has continued his commitment to community service after his time at The Rock. His work includes volunteering at the Atchison Recreation Department and the Benedictine Scholarship Ball.

Evan Highfill ’20 accepted a position as a remote freelance Social Media Coordinator for the PGA over the summer. He worked with staff members and other freelancers to help create content for all of the PGA Tour’s social media platforms. In May 2021, Highfill founded Visuals by Evan, helping clients turn their ideas into visual stories. Raymond Williams ’21 finally and successfully completed the requirements for graduation from Rockhurst High School. Williams was struck down with a rare medical issue and necessarily absent for long lengths of time. Through perseverance, he is now a graduate after receiving his diploma in a small ceremony on June 13. 2023.

Patrick Loper ’19 graduated from Benedictine College in May 2023 with degrees in Theology, Philosophy, and Finance. Open to a calling in religious life, Loper attended an eight-week summer retreat with the Carthusians in the UK at St. Hugh’s Charterhouse. He then headed to Philadelphia to begin a yearlong missionary with Christ in the City. Luke Pittman ’19 was highlighted by the University of Missouri’s Honors College as being “prepared for the future.” Pittman graduated from Mizzou in May 2023 after four years with three degrees - Constitutional Democracy, Economics, and Political Science. He also earned a minor in History. Pittman noted that he entered with quite a few credits from his time at Rockhurst. He decided to continue his education as a student at Harvard Law School, where he began his first semester this fall.

**Announcements included have been received since May 2023. Any future announcements can be sent to Robbie Haden ’09, Director of Communications & Branding, at rhaden@rockhursths.edu.

Alumni Marriages Greg Sullivan ’03 and Lexi Billinger

Brad Fowler ’09 and Alex Eckhoff

Chaz Trujillo ’13 and Lauren Brandon

Pat Befort ’04 and Cristina Faraone

John Doyle ’10 and Kindall Shenefield

Luke Hair ’15 and Nicole Laethem

Stephen Stinger ’05 and Sara Penaloza

Scott Herring ’11 and Robin Borgeson

Jack Crowe ’08 and Victoria Gordon

Nick Lewis ’11 and Nicole Howard

Zander Hulsing ’16 and Makenzie Richardson

David Bird ’09 and Shannon Kilkenny

Ben Koehler ’12 and Abbey Armour

John Bolton ’09 and Allie McMahon

Kevin White ’12 and Abigail Jones

Births Mark Blanck ’98 and Natalie, a daughter, Addie Barritt

Mike Hinck ’04 and Katie, a son, Jackson Curtis

Jack Faerber ’09 and Courtney, a son, Benjamin Welsh

Eric Munninghoff ’99 and Molly, a daughter, Margaux Claire

Tom Godsey ’05 and Missy, a son, Leonard Thomas

Matt Fagan ’09 and Kenzie, a son, Finnegan Paul

Ivan Nugent ’9 9 and Christina, a son, Isaiah Kenneth

John Graves ’05 and Amanda, a daughter, Annabel Lawrence

Billy Linscott ’09 and Lindy, a son, William Harris III

Joseph Nguyen ’00 and Brie, a daughter, Livvy Thị

Terry McMahon ’05 and Bailey, a daughter, Stevie Jean

William Tilson ’09 and Maddie, a son, William Burgess

Kevin Ward ’00 and Sara, a son, Greyson John

John Nagle ’05 and Callie, a son, Peter Samuel

Taylor Conklin ’10 and Katie, a daughter, Olivia Jane

Tom Graves ’03 and Allison, a daughter, Sophia Mackenzie

Jack Fletcher ’07 and Sarah, a daughter, Mary Bernadette

Kevin Owsley ’11 and Sophie, a daughter, Lucy Louise

Dan Howard ’03 and Vanessa, a daughter, Noemie Bariah

Lou Groff ’07 and Kara, a son, Charlie Vincent

John Davenport ’12 and Devon, a daughter, Sonny Dela

Adam Webb ’03 and Whitney, a daughter, Rowen Jann

Peter O’Neill ’08 and Lilly, a son, Arthur John

Ryan McAnany ’12 and Moira, a son, Patrick Damien

In Memoriam Deaths – Alumni

Nick Arello ’62

Deaths – Friends

Sr. Jane Ellen Kelly, C.S.J.

Fr. Ed Flaherty, SJ, ’36

Edward Baty ’65

Grace Blando

Alice Lancey

Edward Goetz ’45

Dr. Christopher Gist ’65

Steve Brancato

Frances Lehane

Leger Brosnahan ’47

Mark Schnoebelen ’65

Chace Brundige

Paul MacRoberts

Joe Brennan ’49

Mike Downey ’66

Janice Clune

Mary McGannon

Robert Sullivan, Sr. ’49

John O’Malley ’66

Bernice Collins

Mike McIntosh

Joe Burke ’50

Leon Van Beceleare ’66

Gene Collins

Helen Mullin

Bill Hornbeck ’53

Gregory Skidmore ’68

Jean Cummings

Alice Mumford

Dominick Minotti ’53

Dennis Dreyer ’69

Ann Dechant

Jim Nusbaum

Richard Ong ’53

Kim Hein ’70

Ronnie Lynn Doyle

Anna Ritz

Pat Dulohery ’55

Brian O’Malley ’70

Carole Jane Dubbert

Jim Roy

Craig Rooney ’55

Mark Huppe ’71

Teresa Dunleavy

Margaret Strobl

Maurice Carey ’57

Dr. Greg Buchholz ’74

Joseph Dwigans

Mary Margaret Tarwater

Raymond Hurley, Jr. ’57

Gerry Wyrsch ’74

Dr. Michael Farrar

Thomas Tarwater

Mike Lawless, Jr. ’57

Mike Carroll ’76

Joan Foltz

Janet Taylor

Michael Messina ’57

Kevin Meyers ’78

Dan Fuhrmann

Don Teson

Charles Scroggins ’57

Paul Muehlebach ’78

Robert Goodwin

Lucille Tutera

Michael Selders ’57

Dr. Bernie Effertz ’80

Mary Jane Grimaldi

Virginia Vigliaturo

Michael Daugherty ’60

Matt Kelley ’80

Rob Herald

Dee Ward

Thomas Fisher ’60

Jimmy Kennaley ’80

Wilma Hopke

Mary Whitaker

Tim Gardner ’60

Brian Muehlebach ’81

Katherine Ismert

Gustava Whitmore

Sam Enna ’61

Jack Baker ’84

Ruth Johnson

Jerry Wilcox

Bernard Raimo ’61

Brad Johnson ’93

Rita Jurcyk

Timothy Steffens ’99

Fr. Ed Flaherty, SJ, ’36 was called to God on June 25, 2023 at the age of 104. Photos courtesy of the Jesuits USA Central & Southern Province, Regis University, and the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

Fr. Edward Flaherty, SJ, ’36 Dies as Oldest Jesuit Rev. Ed Flaherty, SJ, ’36 was called to eternal rest on June 25, 2023 at the age of 104. At his death he was the oldest Jesuit in the entire Society of Jesus. Fr. Flaherty was a Jesuit for 63 years and a priest for 58 years. Prior to devoting his life to serving the Society of Jesus at the age of 40, Fr. Flaherty served in the armed forces for six years, mainly in the medical corps. After leaving the Army, he worked in business for several years until a close friend and classmate’s decision to enter the Society of Jesus caused him to contemplate taking the step himself. He was told to work on his Latin for a year and

test his determination, and in 1959 he entered the novitiate. He lived out his Jesuit mission while studying and serving mostly in Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, California, and Colorado. Rev. Michael Sheeran, SJ, ’57 said of Fr. Flaherty: “Whether he was teaching a class, playing a round of golf, or offering Sunday Mass, [Fr. Flaherty] always knew how to take time for a conversation. If you brought him a problem, he asked helpful questions that also let you know he wanted to support you. I’ll truly miss him.”

Friendship Leads to Gift Benefitting Hurtado Scholars Program Sometimes an alumnus has such an effect on someone who didn’t attend Rockhurst that they still feel connected to the school. Such was the case with Mike Downey ’66 and Bill Sheehan. The two were roommates at the University of Notre Dame who would remain lifelong friends. When Downey passed away in July, Sheehan wanted to know how we could make a meaningful gift in loving memory and honor his dear friend. Downey had shared his love of the Hurtado Scholars Program at Rockhurst, and Sheehan offered a gift to the program that was ultimately made from a bequest that Downey left to Sheehan in his estate. Mike Downey ’66 (left) and his love for the Hurtado Scholars Program led his college roommate and dear friend Bill Sheehan to make a gift to the program in his honor following Downey’s passing in July.

“It’s like the gift has come full circle,” said Sheehan. “From our friendship through time to his love of Rockhurst and through me, back to Rockhurst to support the program he loved.”

A WORD FROM THE PRINCIPAL

“I am so proud of these students and all of our Hawklets. They have generously achieved so much ... they have ‘given and not counted the cost/reward, fought and not heeded the wounds, toiled and not sought for rest, labored and not asked for reward save that of knowing that they were doing God’s will.’”

Dear Rockhurst Community, The multicolored autumnal foliage canopying and carpeting the front lawn of the Greenlease Campus is stunning to behold this time of year. God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good.

Finally, as you will see in this publication, we are blessed to boast nine National Merit Semifinalists and five National Merit Commended scholars, as well.

Well underway, and with many happy graces accompanying it, is another exciting school year at The Rock, with many achievements and recognitions for which to offer praise, reverence, and service to God, particularly in the realm of academic excellence.

I am so proud of these students and all of our Hawklets. They have generously achieved so much academically and in their co-curriculars, and likewise, they have given and not counted the cost, fought and not heeded the wounds, toiled and not sought for rest, labored and not asked for reward, save that of knowing that they were doing God’s will. May God bless all the students of Rockhurst with an outpouring of new Faith, Hope, and Charity.

Dr. Nancy Bolz, Senior Director, Midwest Region of Cognia, Rockhurst’s academic accreditation agency, recently awarded Mr. Scott Reagan ‘99, Academic Services Director, with the 2023 Excellence in Education Award. Congratulations to Mr. Reagan for his diligent laboring in the vineyard of the Lord! Furthermore, Rockhurst was named recently to the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll (Silver Level) for the 2022-23 school year. The school was also recognized with the AP Access Award, which honors schools that encourage more low-income and underrepresented minority students to take AP courses – a dedicated effort that aligns well with Rockhurst’s Mission and Vision as well as with the strategic plan which aims toward a hope-filled future for lower income families, such that Rockhurst will accommodate up to 100% of any qualified student’s financial need with respect to tuition. And, four of our current seniors of the Class of 2024 and one current junior in the Class of 2025 earned perfect ACT scores – five perfect scores! Additionally, 22 students of the Class of 2024 earned between a 33-36 on the test.

For Rockhurst, to the greater glory of God, I remain, Yours faithfully in Christ,

Rev. Vincent Giacabazi, S.J.

FR. GIACABAZI, SJ, MAKES FINAL VOWS AS PROVINCIAL RENEWS THE SOCIETY’S SPONSORSHIP OF ROCKHURST Fr. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ, made his final vows surrounded by the support of the Rockhurst community.

Have you ever thought of becoming a Jesuit? Learn more at www.beajesuit.org

At the first all-school Mass of the school year on August 22, Rockhurst High School welcomed more than 20 local clergy and Jesuits from across the country, along with Bishop James Johnston of the Diocese of Kansas CitySt. Joseph, to celebrate the Mass of the Holy Spirit. The celebration included an important confirmation of Rockhurst as a Jesuit apostolate. The Very Reverend Thomas Greene, SJ, the Provincial Superior of the Jesuits of the United States Central and Southern Province, renewed the official sponsorship of Rockhurst as a Jesuit and Roman Catholic high school. This occurs every six or so years. President David Laughlin and David Staker ‘88, Chairman of the Board of Rockhurst, signed the renewal on behalf of the school.

Rockhurst was honored to have Bishop Johnston join for Mass out of his desire to be present for Mass and, along with the school community, to witness the profession of final vows of Rockhurst Principal Rev. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ. “I had a choice of date and location for the final vows, and intentionally selected the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit at Rockhurst so that the students, faculty, and staff could be present,” reflected Fr. Giacabazi. “I am very grateful to almighty God and for the faith that was handed on to me by my parents, loved ones, friends, and Catholic education throughout my life. To be fully incorporated in the Society of Jesus is a tremendous consolation for me.” Following a year of Alumni Service Corps (ASC) volunteer service at Rockhurst in 2004-05, he joined the novitiate of

the Society of Jesus. He professed his perpetual vows in 2007, and then was ordained a priest in 2015. At the Mass of the Holy Spirit, Rockhurst celebrated Fr. Giacabazi’s 18 amazing years serving the Society of Jesus - and more than 10 years serving Rockhurst. He has worked as principal of Rockhurst since 2019, and prior to that he taught Sophomore Scripture, directed the Freshman Retreat, and chaired the Theology Department. A leader in Jesuit secondary education, Fr. Giacabazi currently serves on the Board of Members of Rockhurst High School, the Board of Trustees of Jesuit High School in Tampa, the Board of Directors of Creighton Preparatory School, and previously served on the Board of Trustees of Rockhurst High School.

President Laughlin watched as the Very Reverend Thomas Greene, SJ, David Staker ’88, and Rev. Derrick Weingartner, SJ, renewed the sponsorship of Rockhurst as a Jesuit high school.

Jesuits from across the country and local clergy attended the Mass of the Holy Spirit to celebrate Fr. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ, making his final vows.

Fr. Danny Tesvich, SJ, shared his Jesuit Speaker Series talk, “St. Ignatius and True Freedom” on August 24 in the Learning Commons.

Ignatian Speaker Series Promotes Hope-Filled Future Rockhurst High School began its Ignatian Speaker Series in fall 2022, welcoming Jesuits from beyond and within Rockhurst to share a Jesuit message to friends and family of the school. The theme for the 2022-23 series was “Rock of Faith” and included Fr. Chris Collins, SJ, the Vice President for Mission at the University of St. Thomas (MN) and Fr. Gary Menard, SJ, a Rockhurst teacher from 2019-2023 who in spring 2023 was named Superior of the Jesuit community in Denver. President David Laughlin worked to expand the speaker series to four evenings throughout the 2023-24 school year, and in line with the school year theme, rebranded to “Toward a Hope-Filled Future.” Four speakers were named for the new year.

He examined the text of St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises and other historical and liturgical texts in order to bring to light the importance and centrality of our Blessed Mother in the tradition and charism of the Society of Jesus. To register for the next Ignatian Speaker Series event on February 6, 2024 featuring Fr. Bill Sheahan, SJ, visit www.rockhursths.edu/speaker. There you can also watch recordings of previous Ignatian Speaker Series talks from Fr. Menard, Fr. Tesvich, Fr. Spinale, and Fr. Giacabazi.

Fr. Danny Tesvich SJ, a Theology teacher at Rockhurst since 2016, offered the opening talk on August 24, titled “St. Ignatius and True Freedom.” Fr. Tesvich explored how, as Catholics, we know that misuse for free will can cause grave dangers and even deprive us of our liberty; St. Ignatius has provided insights that can help exercise true freedom. On October 16, Fr. Kevin Spinale, SJ, shared “Christmas As an Anchor for the Work of Jesuit Education.” Fr. Spinale, a teacher in the Graduate School of Education at Fordham University in New York City, spoke to attendees about the Incarnation of Jesus and the experiences of the Holy Family that anchored St. Ignatius of Loyola’s incontrovertible sense of the closeness and humanity of Jesus Christ. “The Role of Mary in Jesuit Spirituality” was the theme for Fr. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ, Rockhurst Principal, on December 12.

All are invited to attend the next Jesuit Speaker Series event on February 6, 2024, 7 - 8:00 p.m. Fr. Bill Sheahan, SJ, will offer his talk, “Holy Inconvenient: Ignatian Spiritualty as Lived by Jesuit Saint Alberto Hurtado.”

Learning Commons Dedicated in Honor of Bob Kilker ’39 The Learning Commons at Rockhurst High School was constructed in the summer of 2017, and for the last six-plus years have been the epicenter of student learning. The area offers breakout rooms for group projects, individual spaces for quiet study, the home to library services, and the Mayer Family Pitch Space where students and guest speakers host weekly presentations. At the end of the Mass of All Saints celebration on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, President David Laughlin made a surprise announcement to the Rockhurst community. Rosemary Cannon Kilker made a gift of $1.5 million in honor of her late husband, Bob Kilker of the great Class of 1939, who passed away in 2008. Mrs. Kilker offered this transformational gift noting that “education is the bedrock of a lifetime of opportunity and success.”

In appreciation of her generosity, the Learning Commons has been renamed to the Kilker Learning Commons. “The Kilker Learning Commons is a flexible space that encourages student creativity and fosters engagement. Different students have different needs and the Commons offers something for everyone, whether it be a quiet study space, tables for collaboration, the perfect book in which to lose oneself, or something fun to do with friends such as a game or puzzle,” said Dr. Tiffany Rinne, Director of Library Services, who oversees the Kilker Learning Commons on a daily basis. “Due to its dynamic nature, the Kilker Learning Commons is a major hub for students at Rockhurst.”

Mrs. Kilker, an accomplished academic herself, was an instructor for nursing education, a published author, and her husband’s business partner. “She loves the motto ‘men for others’ and she expressed that in you - our students, faculty, and staff - she sees hope in a world desperately in need of good news,” remarked Laughlin in his announcement. “Because of these values, and because of the way her husband spoke of his love for Rockhurst High School, she made a gift that would support education and formation of the young men here at Rockhurst in the memory of her late husband.”

The Kilker Learning Commons serves as a space for individual study and group collaboration.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO WATCH THE KILKER LEARNING COMMONS DEDICATION ANNOUNCEMENT FROM PRESIDENT LAUGHLIN AND A SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM ROCKHURST STUDENTS.

Spirit Club members taught the newest Hawklets chants and cheers that are used at pep rallies and sporting events.

New Hawklets Welcomed to The Rock Stepping onto Rockhurst High School’s campus for the first time as a freshman can be an intimidating experience. But for 201 members of the Class of 2027 entering for their first day (Freshman Orientation) on August 14, upperclassmen of Student Government Association (SGA) excitedly greeted them, welcoming them to the Rockhurst community. The freshmen also had their parents’ support, as all parents and guardians were invited to attend the Freshman and Freshman Parent Mass in the Rose Theater to kick off the morning. The rest of their inaugural day as Hawklets was spent meeting their first semester teachers, figuring out the campus and facilities, and learning Rockhurst cheers and chants from Spirit Club members. The following day, they were missioned to their first of many “men for others” experiences over the next four years. Each young Hawklet volunteered at one of 11 local agencies on this Freshman Day for Others, serving to better the community. The organizations and locations included: Elmwood Cemetery, Kanbe’s Markets, KCK Police Athletic League Community Garden, KC Parks & Rec, Blue River Cleanup, St. Mary’s House, W.E.B. DuBois Learning Center, St. Therese Little Flower (along with alumni volunteers from the great Class of 1967), Lead To Read KC, Project CURE, and St. Monica Catholic Church. The Class of 2027 embarked on its second Freshman Day for Others on October 11, and will complete two more during the second semester.

A favorite memory for many Rockhurst students and alumni, the Freshman Retreat helps bond the class as one unit. “Spread Your Wings” was the theme for the Class of 2027 Freshman Retreat on September 22. The day included a series of fun teamwork activities and games (Freshman Olympics), individual and group reflections, talks with alumni volunteer speakers, Mass in the Barry Commons, “hometime” dinners hosted offsite at the homes of upperclassman student leaders, and returning to Rockhurst for the home football game. The Freshman Retreat was made possible by the servant leadership of more than 70 junior and senior Group Leaders, 40 sophomore Grounds Crew members, 50 alumni speakers, and the entire faculty/staff. “I believe the Freshman Retreat happens at a critical time for our newest members. At a time when a freshman might be asking himself ‘Where do I fit here?’ the retreat provides encouraging answers and connects them to supportive members of the community, including upperclassmen, teachers, and alumni,” said Matt Nickson, Director of Pastoral Ministry and Freshman Retreat Director. “The day becomes this embrace of the freshman class by the wider Rockhurst community. The impact is immeasurable and one that inspires so many to pay it forward when they have their chance to lead.”

Class of 2027

53% KANSAS

47% MISSOURI

24%

IDENTIFY AS PEOPLE OF COLOR

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PUBLIC SCHOOLS

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

FEEDER SCHOOLS

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

CHARTER SCHOOLS

1 OTHER SCHOOL

STUDENT AWARDED HSPT MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS

LEGACY STUDENTS

Left: During the first semester, the freshman class embarked on two of its four Freshman Days For Others of the year, serving various local community agencies. Following three photos: Members of Student Government Association, as well as the Hawklet, welcomed freshmen and their parents to Rockhurst on Freshman Orientation Day on August 14.

Left: All freshmen and their parents gathered for Mass in the Rose Theater as the first activity the group enjoyed a class. Right: The Class of 2027 was excited for its first Rockhurst pep rally on August 25.

Top: Rockhurst’s nine National Merit Semifinalists in the Class of 2023, pictured between Fr. Principal Vincent Giacabazi, SJ, and President David Laughlin: Caleb Dawson, Cole Southard, Eli Manis, Brant Willis, Cielo Tschantret, Ian Morgan, Trevor Murphy, Andrew Puthumana, and Joe Hudak.

Five seniors were named National Merit Commended Students. Pictured between President David Laughlin and Fr. Principal Vincent Giacabazi, SJ,: Adrian Palan, Mark Robel, David Severns, Owen Vontz, and Liam Ver Meer.

Seniors Recognized by National Merit Program Fourteen members of the Class of 2024 were selected as National Merit Scholarship Program award winners. Five seniors selected as National Merit Commended Students are Adrian Palan, Mark Robel, David Severns, Liam Ver Meer, and Owen Vontz. They are among the top 50,000 scorers of program entrants. The nine seniors selected as National Merit Semifinalists are Caleb Dawson, Joe Hudak, Eli Manis, Ian Morgan, Trevor Murphy, Andrew Puthumana, Cole Southard, Cielo Tschantret, and Brant Willis. More than 1.3 million juniors entered the 2024 competition last school year by taking the 2022 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. Looking forward to February, some 15,000 Semifinalists will be notified that they have been selected to Finalist standing. Each Semifinalist spoke to his National Merit selection, and the role that Rockhurst played: Caleb Dawson: “This selection helps give me confidence in my academic abilities and shows that my hard work paid off. I would like to be on a Pre-Med track in hopes of becoming a doctor in the future.” Joe Hudak: “With the help of my teachers, I have grown enough to achieve being a National Merit Semifinalist, and my future has improved because of it. I appreciate the opportunity Rockhurst gives its students to grow.”

Eli Manis: “This honor is important to me because it exemplifies all my efforts in both academics and co-curricular activities. I’m grateful for the Rockhurst teachers and staff who gave me the support which enabled me to achieve academic success.” Ian Morgan: “One of my favorite things about Rockhurst is the people, from teachers to coaches to fellow students. I know everyone has my back and is working hard to see me succeed, both inside and outside of the classroom.” Trevor Murphy: “I plan to study Mechanical Engineering with a focus in Aerospace; ultimately, I would like to work to design satellites for long-range space missions. Rockhurst’s focus on a high-quality education has likely been the single greatest contribution to where I am today.” Andrew Puthumana: “Our class was told at our Freshman Retreat that ‘Rockhurst, in the end, depends on what you put into it.’ To me, this idea continues to drive me forward, and I feel that this achievement largely reflects how that sentiment has pushed me throughout my time at Rockhurst.” Cole Southard: “This selection is a great encouragement and reminder of what I’m capable of. I appreciate that Rockhurst is not focused solely on academic success - rather, it builds you as a person and a ‘man for others.’” Cielo Tschantret: “The National Merit Scholarship is a competitive award for which I’m glad to have been selected. After Rockhurst, I will attend the University of Pennsylvania and play soccer; and then either pursue a career in soccer or work in STEM.” Brant Willis: “I like how passionate Rockhurst’s teachers are about the subjects they teach, and the wide variety of STEM courses available at Rockhurst. Long-term, I would like to work as a software engineer, game developer, or computer engineer.”

SENIOR STANDS OUT AT MISSOURI BOYS STATE

Chosen as one of 98 Boys Nation Senators from tens of thousands of candidates across the country, Andrew Puthumana ’24 had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. to discuss and pass policy and meet some of the nation’s top leaders.

The American Legion Boys State of Missouri (Missouri Boys State) is an eight-day hands-on youth program each summer that teaches Missouri high school students leadership and the workings of government. Andrew Puthumana ’24 was one of nearly 1,000 impressive young men invited to the 83rd annual session that took place in late June. Among some of the most promising young men across Missouri, Puthumana earned three separate prestigious awards and distinctions by a combination of peer nominations, interview committees, and the choice of the executive staff of Missouri Boys State. During the week, he served as State Director of the Gaming Commission as well as President of the Central Bank of MO Boys State, and the awards were chosen not only for his performance and work ethic in these roles throughout the week, but also for the quality of his applications, peer and staff recommendations, and interview process. Commerce Leader of the Week - chosen from the more than 300 Boys State and Girls State members who attended the Commerce and Business school of instruction, this individual both excelled at commerce-related activities and instruction as well as playing an active role in promoting the vitality of the Boys State or Girls State economy. For being selected for this honor, Puthumana was awarded free Andy’s Frozen Custard for one year. Citizen of the Week - chosen from the more than 800 citizens of Boys State and selected from a pool of 16 finalists who underwent a rigorous application and interview process

starting with each citizen being nominated and voted by his peers in his respective city. The Citizen of the Week is chosen among all his Boys State peers for outstanding citizenship, service, and leadership demonstrated throughout the week and for embodying the values of Missouri Boys State through and through. The Citizen of the Week is awarded a yearly scholarship of $5,000 to the university of his choice that is renewable for up to four years, totaling $20,000 in scholarship awards. Boys Nation Senator - Each year, two of the more than 800 citizens of Missouri Boys State are chosen as the two senators from Missouri to matriculate into and represent Missouri in the American Legion Boys Nation program. Citizens are chosen based on a rigorous application, an overview of their extracurricular activities, as well as an interview with the Boys Nation committee. This program was a week-long, fully-paid trip to Washington, D.C. in which 98 senators (two selected from all 49 Boys State programs) met together to discuss and pass policy, build leadership, explore Washington, D.C., and met some of the top leaders in the nation’s capital, including the President of the United States of America. This took place over July 21-29. “I was so proud and honored - and in a little disbelief - to be chosen as the recipient of these awards, but I more so was thrilled to represent Rockhurst High School three times at one of, if not the biggest stage for Missouri high schools in our state,” reflected Puthumana. “I’m so appreciative of Rockhurst for supporting my growth and development as both a servantleader and a student who would never have been able to do all of this without the formation that Rockhurst provides.”

Andrew Puthumana ’24 was selected for three prestigious honors at Missouri Boys State, including the Commerce Leader of the Week.

Students Make Marks in Co-Curriculars Along with challenging students academically, Rockhurst also challenges its students to apply themselves and go for the magis (“more/better”) in co-curricular activities as well.

The Hawklets have continued to respond accordingly. Some of the recent co-curricular highlights, just a few months into the year, have already included: •

Solomon Naraine ’25 was among 16 high school students selected as finalists with all-expense paid trips to compete in the Great Communicator Debate Series (GCDS) National Championship held at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, CA.

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The Rockhurst Choir Program was recognized at the state’s highest level. The Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Kevin Coker, was one of six high school programs selected to perform at the 2024 Missouri Music Educators Association (MMEA) Convention. Rockhurst was the only men’s chorus selected.

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Fourteen students in the Choir Program auditioned for the Kansas City Metro All-District Choir. More than 450 singers across KC auditioned, and eight Hawklets were selected to perform at the All-District Choir Festival. Jack Brackett ’25 and Soren Ursick ’25 were then selected to the MissouriAll-State Choir, an honor given to only 24 singers out of the original 450.

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Matthew Tafoya ’24, Kingston Del Cid ’25, Ian Kennedy ’25, Ted Henning ’26, and Alex Manis ’26 earned spots in the All-District Band, All-District Jazz Band, or the All-District Orchestra.

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The Speech & Debate Program was recognized as one of the top 100 teams in the nation for the 2022-23 year, among more than 3,000 participating schools. Rockhurst was ranked as #59. Rockhurst also earned 400 Club status, based on student and coach achievements in competition and service.

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Patrick Sanders ’25 was an Octofinalist (top 48 out of 188 competitors) in Dramatic Performance at the 2023 National Catholic Forensic League Grand National Tournament.

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The Scholar Bowl Team kicked off its season with a 3rd Place finish in the Truman Library Trivia Competition.

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More than a dozen members of the Software Engineering Club participated in three programming competitions during the first semester. One Rockhurst team placed 4th in the K-State High School Programming Contest. The club is also participating in the CyberPatriot Education Program thanks to the leadership and support of Greg Kratofil ’92, Frank Koranda ’96, and Jeff Smith ’97 of Polsinelli Law Firm.

Rockhurst’s fall sports teams were entering their postseasons at the time of print. For information about the cross country, football, soccer, and swim & dive teams, visit www.GoHawklets.com or @GoHawklets on X/Twitter.

Soren Ursick ’25 (left) and Jack Brackett ’25 (right) were selected to the Missouri All-State Choir. Dr. Kevin Coker (middle) is Rockhurst’s Director of Choirs.

Solomon Naraine ’25 was one of 16 national finalists in the Great Communicator Debate Series.

Patrick Sanders ’25 placed in the top 48 in Dramatic Performance at the National Catholic Forensic League Grand National Tournament.

The Scholar Bowl Team placed 3rd in its first tournament of the 2023-24 season.

The Software Engineering Club has participated in competitions and the ongoing CyberPatriot Education Program.

Six members of Rockhurst’s Speech & Debate Team qualified for and participated in the 2023 MSHSAA State Championship competition. As a whole, Rockhurst’s program was ranked #59 nationally after the 2022-23 season.

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