THE ROCK
National Alumni Association Board of Governors
Mr. Patrick A. Mc Inerney ʼ82 President
Mr. Spencer H. Hardwick ʼ07 President-Elect
Mr. Blaise A. Gassman ʼ16 Secretary; RockConnect Co-Chair
Mr. Enrique I. Gutierrez ’98 At-Large Member
Mr. James H. Maggard ʼ04 Stewardship & Engagement Co-Chair
Mr. Andrew J. Miller ’16 At-Large Member
Mr. Ivan L. Nugent ’99 At-Large Member
Mr. John R. Oades ’67 Volunteer Chair
Philanthropy & Engagement Office
Diane J. Marty, EdD, CFRE Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement dmarty@rockhursths.edu
816.363.2036 x538
Adrianne A. DeWeese Assistant Director of Philanthropy adeweese@rockhursths.edu 816.363.2036 x536
Turner R. “Robbie” Haden ’09 Director of Communications & Branding rhaden@rockhursths.edu 816.363.2036 x552
Moira Kelly Healy Director of Engagement mhealy@rockhursths.edu 816.363.2036 x582
Timothy R. Reidy ’02 Archives Director & Faculty Member treidy@rockhursths.edu 816.363.2036 x255
Sylvia M. Smith Philanthropy & Engagement Supportive Services ssmith@rockhursths.edu 816.363.2036 x588
Mr. Todd A. Schieffer ’90 RockConnect Co-Chair; Alumni Recognition Chair
Mr. Henry J. Thomas ’06 Nominating Committee Chair
Meredith L. Suarez Director of Alumni Engagement msuarez@rockhursths.edu 816.363.2036 x537
Loretta Verbanic Gifts & Stewardship Specialist lverbanic@rockhursths.edu 816.363.2036 x555
George J. Weir Director of Data & Analytics gweir@rockhursths.edu 816.363.2036 x539
This publication includes updates from May through November 2024. Rockhurst High School communications correction: On Aug. 29, 2024, an email was sent to members of the extended Rockhurst community. In sharing reflections from graduates in the great Class of 2024, Aidan O’Donnell ’24 was incorrectly identified as being a freshman at the University of Central Missouri; O’Donnell is a freshman at Baylor University.
A WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT
“When I think about the excellence at Rockhurst and I consider our students, it is humbling to see the ways they live out our school year theme: Servant Leadership.”
Greetings from Rockhurst High School! In early November, we held our annual Open House for prospective students. It is a great day to showcase the excellence and diversity of Rockhurst High School.
And the dedication of our faculty and staff who attend to showcase their leadership is a great insight for prospective families.
I stand outside to welcome the families who are visiting. But, mixed among those arriving and departing are shifts of current students, who are also coming into school on a Sunday to lead tours, present programs, answer questions, and generally support showing off Rockhurst High School.
As they were arriving or departing, I expressed my gratitude to those current Hawklets:
Me: “Thanks for your help today!”
90% of them replied, “Of course!”
Later in my prayer, that answer kept coming back to me: “Of course!” And what came back to me very clearly in their answer was their sense of ownership in their school. Phrased another way, I think they were saying: “You are our president, but this is my school and I’m proud to be here today.”
“Of course”... as if there were any question.
When I think about the excellence at Rockhurst and I consider our students, it is humbling to see the ways they live out our school year theme: Servant Leadership.
Many dozens of upperclassmen work for many hours to help lead our Freshmen Retreat. The source of their interest in doing so is Servant Leadership. The same can be said for those leaders of our Kairos retreats.
Our Student Government Association has really put intentional and successful efforts into creativity and engagement to foster our school spirit this year. Again, dedicating themselves to their brother Hawklets, their motivation stems from Servant Leadership.
We have an after-school tutoring program entitled the Student Success Center, where peer tutors are available to help the intellectual formation of their fellow Hawklets. And, we have team captains in everything from sports to speech & debate and choir to band who help provide a framework of excellence in the standards they set for achievement.
It helps our current students to see alumni who are also reaching back into the school to provide their own Servant Leadership to the school today. Alumni come back to speak
at Freshman Retreat or offer time in various curricular areas to the young men today. Cross Country alumni are invited to write words of encouragement to this year’s team before the State Meet – which they won!!
Last school year, we worked through a second year of strategic visioning for our school’s future, and alumni and friends of the school availed themselves to help provide input in care of our mission. This group, literally from across the country (and even one in Europe) responded generously with a ‘yes’ to serve in helping Rockhurst to think about key areas of the school. You will be hearing more about their work in looking at a variety of aspects of our school. The work included:
Formation of the Whole Person – care for our students beyond their academic programs.
Academic and Professional Student Success – helping students connect the meaning of their learning in its application and concentrating on the accompanying skill sets they need to lead.
Athletics and Major Co-Curriculars – considering the delivery of mission through the elective opportunities of many Hawklets in diverse programs.
Financial Accessibility and Sustainability of Rockhurst High School – announcing the school’s commitment to meet 100% of exhibited family need, desiring a school where students succeed based upon their ability to learn and grow and not their families’ economic circumstances – and to create the financial sustainability to support not only this excellence but the innovation of all programs in care of our students.
A Servant Leader is both humble and willing to give of themselves to others. Our school year has again been successful because people embrace these qualities.
We are blessed with an environment that supports the growth of “men for others” and the examples of Servant Leadership in and among our community are readily apparent each and every week at Rockhurst High School. We are blessed.
St. Ignatius of Loyola, pray for us.
God bless,
David J. Laughlin President
ALUMNI COMMUNITY MESSAGES TO THE ROCKHURST
The Rockhurst National Alumni Association honored Mark Teahan ’78 (middle) as its 2024 Alumnus of the Year at the Rev. Mario. Puricelli, SJ, Alumni Spaghetti Dinner on Nov. 7. Pat McInerney ’82, Alumni Association President, Meredith Suarez, Director of Alumni Engagement, Dr. Diane Marty, Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement, and David Laughlin, President, were on-hand for the annual celebration at Rockhurst. Not pictured: Emerging Hawklet honoree Cornell Ellis ’08 (see P. 8), who joined via livestream video during the evening.
From the President of the National Alumni Association:
Dear Fellow Alumni and Friends of Rockhurst,
On behalf of the Rockhurst National Alumni Association Board of Governors, I can gratefully report that the Alumni Association is enjoying a tremendous year in 2024 and looks forward to growing and building in the year to come. Our commitment to building connections – with each other, with Rockhurst, and with our communities – has been the centerpiece of our efforts and, again, we find ourselves blessed with great success.
Our alumni season kicked off with Alumni Reunion Week in October. This year’s celebration was combined with Homecoming Weekend, which made for a highly-excited, highly-crowded campus at Rockhurst. We were fortunate to be joined by more than 700 alumni over the week at events, highlighted by Friday night’s alumni reception and football game; a Golden Hawklets reception; class-based events; Mass on Saturday; and Sunday celebrations across many classes.
Reunion Week also allowed us to continue the celebration of our 2024 Alumnus of the Year Mark Teahan ’78 and our 2024 Emerging Hawklet honoree Cornell Ellis ’08. Along with the inductees to the Rockhurst Sports Hall of Fame, our alumni honorees showcased the special and permanent connections Rockhurst creates in all of us and, for a weekend, brought some well-deserved acclaim to our brothers.
As we have for the past several years, the annual Rev. Mario Puricelli, SJ, Alumni Spaghetti Dinner continued the celebration of our alumni award winners. This muchanticipated dinner has evolved into a hallmark opportunity to see the path “men for others” forge after they leave the halls of Rockhurst. This year, we heard from and about both honorees and their tremendous service to and connection with Rockhurst and their communities. As many of you know, Mark Teahan’s impact over decades can truly be seen everywhere at Rockhurst – from his leadership of the Board of Trustees to his critical role in designing the Hawklets Center, his service has been generational. And Cornell Ellis’ contribution to education, especially creating space for Black male educators to grow and excel, gives real-time meaning to our motto: Wisdom in Christ.
Please take time to explore and join our efforts to build connections at www.rockhursths.edu/alumni/alumni-board
From the Director of Alumni Engagement:
Dear Rockhurst Community,
Stephen Hawking famously said, “showing up is half the battle.” The idea that if we are fully present and willing to do the work, we’re well on our way to achieving success. As we close this active fall season, I am humbled by the many ways you have shown up for The Rock through your presence on campus, at out-of-town gatherings, and your generous financial support for our school.
The fall season kicked off early with the RockConnect Young Alumni Networking event on Aug. 1, and the launch of the inaugural Alumni Fantasy Football Collective (AFFC). Special thanks to Alumni Board of Governors Vice President, Spencer Hardwick ’07, for creating and leading this new event and for the 50 alumni who participated in the pilot.
Last spring, Rockhurst announced an expansion of tuition assistance to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need to any academically-qualified student. Delivering on this promise only happens through the generosity of others, and Rockhurst alumni have shown up in a BIG way. The great Class of 1974 celebrated its 50th Jubilee AND started a class scholarship that is already more than fully-funded. The great Class of 1969 followed suit and is well on its way to fully funding a class scholarship of its own. What’s more, alumni participation in giving is up 55%, with revenue more than tripling from this time last year.
As we strengthen our connections, we’ve been delighted to show up wherever you are as we continue our national visits. Thank you to our Forever Hawklets who attended alumni gatherings this fall in Minneapolis, Washington, D.C., San Diego, Chicago, Nashville, Boston, New York, and San Francisco, with more visits headed to a city near you this spring.
As 2024 Emerging Hawklet Honoree Cornell Ellis ’08 shared this year at the Homecoming Mass, “it’s very easy to see what is different. I want to encourage you all to learn what is the same.” Students grow up, people move away, families grow, times change. But what remains the same is the love we all have for Rockhurst, and the strength of the Rockhurst alumni brotherhood. Thank you for showing up for each other, for our students, and for Rockhurst.
AMDG, Pat Mc Inerney ’82
National Alumni Association President
AMDG, Meredith Suarez Director of Alumni Engagement
Teahan ’78 and Ellis ’08 Celebrated as Alumni Examples
Every year since 2002, Rockhurst High School selects an Alumnus of the Year. The recipient is one 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.
In 2023, a second alumni award was established: the Emerging Hawklet Award. This award celebrates the outstanding achievement of a young alumnus who has created a meaningful impact through exceptional leadership, service to others, and/or a commitment to excellence.
The 2024 honorees - nominated by their peers, and then vetted and selected by the Alumni Recognition Committee of Rockhurst High School’s National Alumni Associationwere Mark Teahan ’78 as the Alumnus of the Year and Cornell Ellis ’08 as the Emerging Hawklet.
A standout basketball player at both Rockhurst High and Rockhurst University (formerly Rockhurst College), Teahan went on to a successful business career of more than 35 years with George J. Shaw Construction Co. While expanding the company’s business after becoming owner of the company in 2000, Teahan steadfastly maintained family and philanthropy as top priorities.
Cornell Ellis ’08 (middle left) and Mark Teahan ’78 (middle right) received the 2025 Emerging Hawklet Award and 2025 Alumnus of the Year Award, respectively, at the Homecoming Mass on Oct. 8. They were joined by Rev.. Tom Pesci, SJ, Meredith Suarez, David Laughlin, and Rev. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ.
Mark Teahan ’78 was celebrated as Rockhurst’s 2024 Alumnus of the Year during the Alumni Awards and Sports Hall of Fame ceremony on Oct. 8, led by Meredith Suarez and David Laughlin.
Cornell Ellis ’08, along with his son, Leon, was recognized as Rockhurst’s 2024 Emerging Hawklet during halftime of the football game during Alumni Reunion Week.
Teahan and his wife, Donna, have five children: a daughter, Natalie, and four Rockhurst High School graduates in Kyle ’03, Conner ’07, Chris ’17, and Marcus ’19 They also have five nephews and two grandsons who are Hawklets ( Lucas Gates ’23 and Jude Gates ’27 ).
He has remained involved in Catholic Charities, St. Lawrence Catholic Center at the University of Kansas, Curé of Ars Parish, Rockhurst University, and of course Rockhurst High School. Mark and Donna were co-chairs of the 2016 Spectacular Auction, a record-setting fundraiser to that point, bringing in more than $750,000 in tuition assistance.
He also served as the Chairman of the Builders Association of Kansas City and the Chairman of the General Labor Committee and was a trustee on multiple Union Benefit Funds.
Teahan was a leader on Rockhurst High’s Board of Trustees from 2014-2021, including a term as the Chairman of the Board from 2019-2021.
His service as a volunteer leader at Rockhurst included increasing financial aid for students and their families; focusing on the school’s Catholic identity; creating a formalized Investment Committee; assisting in the planning of Hawklets Center; serving on a strategic planning committee from 2023-2024 reviewing priorities for co-curriculars and athletics; serving on the Athletics Committee; and continuing his active involvement on the Facilities Committee.
As Board Chair, Teahan helped lead the school through the challenges of the global pandemic as Rockhurst was a local leader in continuing in-person education in August 2020.
“I am incredibly honored to be recognized as the Rockhurst High School Alumnus of the Year,” remarked Teahan. “Rockhurst has always played a large influential role in my life. I have a deep love of this institution - what it stands for, who it helps, and the lives it impacts. To be considered as having a small impact on this community is truly a heartwarming and humbling honor.”
Representing a younger generation of Rockhurst graduates, Cornell Ellis is also making a difference in the community.
While a Hawklet, he was a State Champion football player and a State Champion saxophonist. But his biggest impact at The Rock was as a member and leader of the MEET Club (MultiEthnic Enrichment Team), a student organization that strives to promote multicultural harmony and awareness at Rockhurst. The club still exists today as the Student Diversity Union.
The Ellis Family’s impact at Rockhurst extended even further, as Cornell’s father, Arnold Ellis, was a founding member of Parents Promoting Diversity (PPD), a parent-based organization focused on increasing the voice and experience of parents in the Rockhurst community.
While a student-athlete at the University and Missouri and Avila University, where he earned his degree in History, Ellis developed his passion for working with and for young people. He served as a Teen Club Director for Boys and Girls Club of America and counseled at-risk urban youth aged 8-16 at the Hands Together Heart to Art Camp at Roosevelt University in Chicago.
Beginning in 2014, Ellis found a home back in the classroom. He taught English Language Arts and was a Guided Reading Teacher at the Ewing Marion Kauffman School in Kansas City. For seven years, he educated urban students in an effort to build the foundation for future college graduates.
His dedicated work in education led Ellis to a jarring statistic: less than 2% of educators in America are Black men. Ellis wanted to face that problem head-on, and in 2016 he co-founded BLOC (Brothers Liberating Our Communities) in hopes of encouraging more Black men to become teachers, and as a support group to keep Black men in the education field. Ellis has served as the Executive Director since 2020.
While still regularly returning to Rockhurst’s campus to speak to students about careers in education, Ellis also serves the greater KC community. He has devoted himself to being a Board Member for Show Me KC Schools, chairing the Mayor’s Commission on Reparations Education Subcommittee, participating in the Kansas City Tomorrow (KCT) leadership program, and being an active member of his church while raising his two young children (Leon and Ava) with his partner, Kortney
“As a reluctant and hesitant freshman, the culture of ‘For the Greater Glory of God’ quickly became a mantra for me and has echoed in my heart since my days at The Rock. Today, as a growing community leader, father, and partner, the phrase means more than ever,” commented Ellis. “The friends, colleagues, and networks that I built at Rockhurst continue to be guiding lights of greatness. My four years at Rockhurst provided me with lifelong friends and councils of men with integrity, vision, and fervor for lighting the world on fire.”
Teahan and Ellis accepted their awards at the school’s Homecoming Mass on Oct. 8 and then were honored again later that week during Alumni Reunion Week A final celebration took place on Nov. 7 at the annual Rev. Mario Puricelli, SJ, Alumni Spaghetti Dinner
Nominations are now open for the 2025 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, 2025.
The great Class of 2009 supported two of their classmates, Michael McGee ’09 and Nathan Scheelhaase ’09, who were inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame.
John Oades ’67 led the alumni group into the Dining Commons for lunch, embracing the clapping welcome from current students.
The great Class of 1974 enjoyed a round of golf at Heritage Park during its 50th reunion celebration.
Jim Tiehen ’74, John Tepper ’74, Tim O’Connor ’74, and Chuck Lillis ’74 relived some of their glory days as Rockhurst students.
Members of the great Class of 1979 caught up during the Alumni Football Tailgate.
Reunion classes planned individual gatherings throughout the week. The great Class of 1984 opted for the Tavern on 103rd.
Attendees at the Golden Hawklets celebration included Jim O’Connor ’49, Jake Smith ’66, Bob Reintjes, Sr. ’49, Robert Rodarte ’48, and Darrel Hunter ’66.
Alumni enjoyed student-led tours of campus, and heard why the Kilker Learning Commons are the hub of student life for today’s Hawklets.
Forty former Soccer Hawklets laced up their old cleats for the annual Alumni Soccer Match.
Alumni Reunite During Special Week
In what continues to grow in scale and popularity seemingly every year, Rockhurst High School’s Alumni Reunion Week was a time of fun and reminiscing fond memories for many former Hawklets.
During the four-day celebration over Oct. 9-12, more than 700 alumni returned to their alma mater.
The kickoff event honored the school’s most distinguished alumni, the Golden Hawklets, alumni who graduated from Rockhurst 50 or more years ago. Forty-five of these tenured alumni joined for the Golden Hawklet event on Wednesday evening. All Golden Hawklets are invited to the reunion festivities each year.
Thursday morning included over 50 alumni of all ages coming to campus for student-led tours of Greenlease Memorial Campus. For those who attended Rockhurst after the move from Troost to State Line in 1962, seeing the changes over the last 62 years - and even over just the last five years - is shocking. The tours led into a warm welcome from current students as the alumni entered the Dining Commons for lunch.
gathered on the Al Davis, Jr. Field overlooking Dasta Memorial Stadium from the west for the Alumni Football Tailgate. On a beautiful fall night, the evening was highlighted by the induction of the Sports Hall of Fame members and recognition of the school’s two annual Alumni Awards. Following the game, classes broke off for individual class gatherings at various locations throughout the city.
Ready for a Saturday sweat, 40 former Soccer Hawklets took to Severino Field for the Alumni Soccer Match. These men helped build the foundation for one of the best athletic programs in the country, and the 2023 National Champions. And while their play might not have been described as “the beautiful game” as it once was, there was no shortage of high school highlights relived on the pitch.
The final on-campus event was the Saturday evening Alumni Mass and Reception in the Sacred Heart Chapel and the Pesci Atrium.
The 2025 Alumni Reunion Week will celebrate all classes ending in 0s and 5s, as well as all Golden Hawklets. Look for details to be announced in the spring at www.rockhursths.edu/reunion
As the Football Hawklets prepared to take the field against St. Thomas Aquinas on Friday night, hundreds of Rock alumni
Scan QR code to watch a recap of the 2024 Alumni Reunion Week.
A celebration of Mass on Saturday afternoon gave alumni another chance to reflect on the beauty of God’s grace and His presence at Rockhurst High School.
Six Hawklet Greats Inducted Into Sports Hall of Fame
Rockhurst High School’s Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1991 by Athletic Director Coach 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 six new members on Oct. 8, 2024 during Alumni Reunion Week, the Sports Hall of Fame now includes 155 members of Rockhurst’s storied athletic tradition, celebrated over the last 33 years. All alumni nominees must have graduated from Rockhurst at least 15 years prior to consideration by the Hall of Fame Selection Committee.
The 2024 Sports Hall of Fame class included Tim Mauck ’90 (football), Matt Darby ’00 (soccer), Kevin Ward ’00 (golf), Nick Vignatelli ’06 (swim & dive), Michael McGee ’09 (golf), and Nathan Scheelhaase ’09 (football).
To nominate an alumnus, coach, or fan for the Rockhurst Sports Hall of Fame, visit www.rockhursths.edu/hof/nominate
Rockhurst’s Sports Hall of Fame inductees for 2024 were Tim Mauck ’90, Matt Darby ’00, Kevin Ward ’00, Nick Vignatelli ’06, Michael McGee ’09, and Nathan Scheelhaase’ 09. Mauck and Scheelhaase were unable to attend and were represented by Coach Tony Severino (left), joined by Ward, Darby, McGee, and Vignatelli for the ceremony.
Tim Mauck ’90
• Set single season receptions record (43) in 1989
• 628 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns for State Runner-Up
• Still holds receptions record for tight ends
• 1st Team All-State and 1st Team Jesuit All-American
Kevin Ward ’00
• Two-time All State golfer
• Placed 14th at State as a sophomore, 5th as a junior
• Team went undefeated in 1999 season
• Led Rock to State Championship three-peat
Michael
McGee ’09
• Four-year golf letterman and State qualifier
• Three-time team State Champs
• 2009 co-individual State Champion
• First Hawklet golfer to pair individual and team State Titles
Matt Darby ’00
• Two-time soccer State Champion (1998, 1999)
• 1st Team All-State and MO Defensive Player of the Year
• Rockhurst HS Head Coach (2019-present)
• 124-16-3 record, three State Titles, 2023 National Champs
Nick Vignatelli ’06
• Four-year swim & dive letterman
• Led AquaHawks to first State Title in 2005
• Two-time 200 Medley State Champ, 2nd in 50 Free
• All-State eight times, All-American five times
Nathan Scheelhaase ’09
• 11-time letterman (football, basketball, track & field)
• 23-2 record as starting QB; 2007 undefeated State Champs
• School-record 5,946 career total yards and 68 touchdowns
• First non-senior to win Simone Award for most outstanding player in KC
Alumni Maintain Strength of Rockhurst Community
Following the graduation of the great Class of 2024 in the spring, the Rockhurst High School national alumni base reached 15,603 members
The bonds of Rockhurst alumni span nearly 110 years and touch every corner of the world. The school offers opportunities for its alumni to maintain connections to each other and to its current students. Below are just a few of those offerings between September and December 2024.
Led by Jamie Maggard ’04, Engagement Committee Chair of the National Alumni Association Board of Governors, the Alumni Breakfast Series returned after a two-year hiatus. The topic was “Journalism in Today’s World” and featured a panel of Suzanne Hogan (KCUR), David Hudnall ’00 (KC Star), David von Drehle (Washington Post), and Reeves Wiedeman ’04 (New York Magazine) attended by 60 alumni.
Dozens of volunteers added an important alumni perspective to the Freshman Retreat in September. Two to three former Hawklets spoke to each group of the school’s newest Hawklets about the impact of the Rockhurst experience and education in their lives, and how it still plays a big role even decades after graduation.
Another student retreat, the second annual Kairos 4th Day Retreat for all seniors, included an alumni point of view to the young men who are preparing for life after Rockhurst. Young alumni, including Jake Waldenmeyer ’12 , shared how they still carry out the Kairos lessons and ideals as adults.
“It was an honor to speak to seniors on the retreat about living a life of intentionality and how to take ownership of their lives as they transition into college and beyond,” reflected Waldenmeyer. “I relish the opportunity to contribute my experience to hopefully benefit what I consider to be the greatest fraternity of brothers in the world. The importance of Rockhurst and its role in building the next generation of leaders in Kansas City and beyond cannot be overstated.”
While back at Rockhurst for his class’ 50th reunion celebration, Dr. Larry Krissek ’74 spent time over two school days speaking with students in Geology and Environmental Science classes, and also served as an Alumni Career Speaker Dr. Krissek is a Sedimentologist and Professor Emeritus of Earth Sciences at The Ohio State University. He and his wife, Deb, were also supporters of Rockhurst’s Jack Nestor ’34 Outdoor Lab Classroom, donating to create the space’s regional native grassland area.
RockConnect , Rockhurst’s professional network initiative led by its own committee of dedicated alumni, continued to thrive by offering in-person events and facilitating mentorships. At the
The September Alumni Breakfast Series topic was “Journalism in Today’s World” with Jamie Maggard ’04 moderating a panel of journalists that featured Suzanne Hogan, David Hudnall ’00, Reeves Wiedeman ’04, and David von Drehle.
Mark Thompson ’79, Morgan Sheedy ’94, and Jalen Montgomery ’10 volunteered to serve as alumni speakers at the Freshman Retreat, sharing their experiences as Rockhurst students life after The Rock.
Dr. Larry Krissek ’74, back at Rockhurst for his class’ 50th reunion, offered to be a guest speaker for Science classes and an Alumni Career Speaker. Students were fascinated by his many research trips to Antarctica.
The RockConnect Committee, co-chaired by Todd Schieffer ’90, hosted an alumni networking event on Aug. 1. More than 50 young alumni attended to learn more about the initiative and the 70-plus experienced alumni across all industries who have offered to serve as resources and mentors.
beginning of August, more than 50 recent Rockhurst graduates attended an alumni networking event to learn more about RockConnect. There is already a large group of alumni who are experienced and established in their industries eager to mentor younger Hawklets.
“If you have interest in a particular industry that you’d like to learn more about, or connect with alumni who we have set up as mentors, they are ready and willing to take your call,” explained Todd Schieffer ’90, RockConnect Committee Co-Chair, to the networking event attendees. “We have about 70 guys across all industries who are willing to meet you for coffee, hop on a phone call, talk over Zoom - whatever it takes. We’re here to give you our insights to help you identify networks for additional conversations, and then internships and jobs.”
Learn more about RockConnect or connect with its co-chairs at www.rockhursths.edu/rockconnect
After representatives from Rockhurst’s Philanthropy & Engagement (P&E) and President’s Offices visited 10 cities across the country to attend alumni gatherings in 2023-24,
interest grew. During just the first semester of the 202425 academic year, Rockhurst staff members helped plan, promote, and attend gatherings in eight cities nationwide.
John Whitaker, Jr. ’96 hosted an event in Minneapolis - St. Paul; Jim Scott Polsinelli ’88 and Doug Kramer ’89 co-hosted a Washington, D.C. event; Steve Marietti ’84 and Earnest McCoy ’06 arranged a Chiefs watch party in San Diego; Doug Dunlay ’89 and Matt Kopp ’01 co-hosted a Chicagoland gathering; Larry Marnett ’65 and Evan Keyser ’98 organized an event in Nashville; Ken Felter ’68 welcomed fellow alumni at a Massachusetts gathering; Rob Hess ’79, Justin Bazdarich ’95, and Marc Scrivo ’95 co-hosted an event in New York; and Terry Houlihan ’61, John Piane ’78, and Clay Stanley ’11 capped off the year with a Bay Area gathering in San Francisco.
More than 175 alumni attended these Rockhurst events. If you would like to host or co-host a gathering in your city in 2025, reach out to Meredith Suarez, Director of Alumni Engagement, at msuarez@rockhursths.edu
Jake Waldenmeyer ’12 (middle, white quarter-zip) spoke to seniors at the 4th Day Retreat, reflecting on the importance of the Kairos ideals carrying into college and beyond.
Nick Hirner ’15 (middle right) was married in July 2024 in Omaha, NE. By his side were Nick Para ’15, Paul Freeman ’15, former Rockhurst faculty member and Interim President Fr. Bill Sheahan, SJ, who presided over the Mass, and Mac Walsh ’15. Hirner is also the son of Rockhurst Science teacher, Dr. Leo Hirner.
Rockhurst alumni in New York gathered for an event on Nov. 19 at Xavier High School,
Chas Eberle ’98 and Doug Kramer ’89, residents of Washington, D.C., were spotted on TV cheering on the Royals to a 3-0 win over the Nationals on Sept. 25. Kramer, a former Social Studies teacher at Rockhurst, wrote “It’s that thing where the Rockhurst reunion in D.C. forces you to reconnect with that kid that you coached in high school debate, and you go to an essential Royals game and make it on TV.”
At the RockConnect young alumni networking event on Aug. 1, Blaise Gassman ’16 spoke to Rockhurst alumni currently in college about his career as a Power Grid Solutions Engineer at Burns & McDonnell. Gassman is also Secretary of Rockhurst High School’s National Alumni Association and a RockConnect Committee Co-Chair.
co-hosted by Rob Hess ’79, Justin Bazdarich ’95, and Marc Scrivo ’95.
Steve Marietti ’84 and Earnest McCoy ’06 co-hosted a Chiefs watch party in San Diego on Oct. 27.
Caleb Teeven ’23, Patrick Franke ’22, Brendan Lillis ’23, and Joe Kelly ’19 were among the young alumni attendees at the Rockhurst Massachusetts event hosted by Ken Felter ’68 on Nov. 18.
There are 24 Rockhurst High School alumni who are proud members of the school’s faculty and staff. Eighteen of them gathered in the Barry Commons before leading the procession of the Homecoming Mass on Oct. 8.
More than 30 Rockhurst alumni enjoyed the Oct. 2 event in Washington, D.C. co-hosted by Jim Scott Polsinelli ’88 and Doug Kramer ’89.
INSPIRING CONTINUED ENGAGEMENT
Dr. Marty Promoted, Blanck, Jr. ’98 Returns to The Rock
Rockhurst High School is pleased to announce that Dr. Diane Marty has been promoted to a new role as Vice President of Philanthropic Investments and Executive Vice President of the school’s continued strategic planning.
During the past five years, Rockhurst High School and its Philanthropy & Engagement Team under Dr. Marty’s leadership has received over $50 million of support, purchased the Goppert Rock Plex, increased financial assistance, and grown overall engagement.
This announcement coincides with Mark Blanck, Jr. ’98 returning to Rockhurst in December to assume the role of Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement, held these last five years by Dr. Marty.
From 2010-2020 Blanck served in the school’s Advancement Office. After leaving Rockhurst, he worked at UMKC as the Director of Major Gifts for the UMKC Health Sciences Campus, fundraising to benefit numerous colleges within Health Sciences, and then for the last three years as the Vice President of Advancement at the University of Saint Mary.
At Saint Mary, he not only increased the university’s annual revenues for operations, its gala, and its golf tournament, but also oversaw fundraising for their newly-established $4.1 million student dorm. In addition, he reorganized and grew its Advancement Office, re-engaged the university’s Alumni Board, and drove alumni engagement events in and outside of the greater Kansas City area.
Mark Blanck, Jr. ’98 will return to Rockhurst High School in December as the Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement.
Dr. Diane Marty
From the Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement:
Dear Rockhurst Community,
Servant Leadership. It’s our academic year theme and it’s something we’re privileged to witness every. single. day. through Philanthropy & Engagement.
Consider the many alumni (spanning six decades!) who returned to the school in September to take part in the Freshman Retreat , offering perspective, mentorship, and connections to today’s first-year Hawklets.
Or the alumni, parents, and grandparents(!) who tirelessly volunteer at the school, whether it’s with events like the retreat or to welcome our alumni back during Reunion Week 2024… or staffing the front desk, providing data entry assistance, organizing our clothing closet, or even stuffing envelopes.
Servant Leadership also includes volunteer committee work through planning out-of-town alumni visits, the Annual Spectacular Auction, or the Hurtado Celebration Event (to name just a few!) that involves constituents in and out of town and working around the calendar to advocate, fundraise, plan, and produce elements that support today’s Hawklets.
And Servant Leadership is in the actions of those who commit financial resources so that other families can realize their dreams of sending their sons to Rockhurst without undue financial hardship.
At press time, almost five months through this current fiscal year, we have seen an increase of 25% in participating donors over last year (1,250 compared to 958 the year before), a trend that we have worked hard to address through outreach, communications, out-of-state visits, and word of mouth from our many ambassador constituents.
And it’s a trend we must continue for the Rockhurst Experience not only to perpetuate, but to grow and improve. Our intent in this regard was summarized in the words of a past parent who wrote to us this fall, thanking us for the experience his son had in his four years as a Hawklet: “I hope Rockhurst High School always adapts but never changes!”
Servant Leadership: it will drive our adaptation as well as our Jesuit, Catholic tradition of excellence. And it’s contagious in our Rockhurst Eyrie. For that, we’re eternally grateful!
AMDG, Diane Marty, EdD, CFRE Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement
From the Director of Engagement:
Dear Rockhurst Community,
RDQ – ROCK DON’T QUIT! This phrase is most often heard on the athletic field. But it was also the theme for the 2024 Spectacular Auction. And The Rock didn’t quit! Generous benefactors, parents, and friends came together to raise over $1.6 million for tuition assistance. THANK YOU!
Throughout October, current and past parents enjoyed parties that they purchased at Spectacular. Dads and sons participated in a cornhole tournament. Brian Reardon ’96 and his son Johnny won the trophy! Ladies Bingo, with a “Denim and Diamonds” theme, entertained several hundred moms. College freshmen from the great Class of 2024 received care packages their moms created at the “Care Package Party.” These parties and others will be available at the 2025 Spectacular
Steadfast volunteers are already at work planning Spectacular – Rock Of Ages (Think providing a sure foundation, strength, tradition; not the movie.) You will be hearing from our 2025 co-chairs, who will be asking for your support as a sponsor, a volunteer, an auction item donor, or as an attendee. There is a way for everyone to contribute to Spectacular!
Gift Gathering Parties continue to benefit Spectacular The Holiday Gift Gathering Party for alumni, past parents and friends was on Dec. 5, at the home of Lindsey and Matt Smith ’00. Class gift gathering parties will follow in January and February 2025.
WIN A CAR! Heartland Chevrolet and Dana and Chris Igoe ’93 will be providing a car for our annual raffle. More information on raffle shares will be coming after the first of the year.
Last but not least, check out our Rockhurst merchandise. The items are exclusive to Spectacular! Sweatshirts, T-Shirts, Hats, pillows, there is a wide variety of items to choose from. Start shopping now by scanning the QR code!
Thank you!
Moira Kelly Healy Director of Engagement
Scan QR code to start shopping for Spectacular merchandise.
If you’ve never been to a Rockhurst High School Spectacular Auction, you’re missing out! And if you have been, then you know just how fun they are - and for a great cause.
Spectacular is the largest fundraiser in support of the school’s $2.7 million financial assistance program for Rockhurst families. The 2023 event set a new record by raising more than $1.61 million to benefit the 41% of all Hawklets and their families that relied on that financial assistance in the 2023-24 school year.
The 2025 Spectacular co-chairs, led by our legacy cochairs of Adrienne & Chris Helvey and Annie & John Houlehan ’95 who helped set that mark of $1.61 million in 2025, are motivated to set a new standard for The Rock. They will be joined by excited first-time co-chairs Susie & Chuck Caisley, Julie Walker Browne & Pete Browne ’85, and Kristin & Greg Kratofil ’92
So whether this will be your first Spectacular or your twentieth, join us on April 12, 2025!
Members of the Darby Family attended the dedication ceremony of the Mike Darby ’73 Student Government Association (SGA) Office on Nov. 6.
Dr. Diane Marty and Meredith Suarez held the ceremonial ribbon while Luke Kuechler ’25, Sam Komenda ’25, Bill Darby ’71, Bill Hayes ’25, Bob Darby, and Brian Darby marked the official dedication of the Mike Darby ’73 SGA Office.
SGA Offices Dedicated to Mike Darby ’73
In 1952, while Rockhurst High School was still on Troost Ave., it was decided that the entire student body would cast votes in the election of class officers.
The following year, each homeroom elected one member to represent it, so that every section would be assured of a voice in school decisions. And then in 1954, the term “Student Government” was used for the first time.
In the 70 years since, there have been various iterations of Rockhurst’s Student Government Association (SGA), but the constant has been the group’s commitment to serving as the official representative of the student body. It acts as a consultant to the faculty and administration concerning all matters of student life, promotes school spirit and community by acting as a network organization of student clubs, and sponsors a variety of social and social justice awareness events.
Now located in the Barry Commons, the SGA Office serves as the hub of student leadership, where pep rallies are scripted, dances are scheduled, Harvest Food Drive canned goods are collected, and Mission Weeks are planned.
On Nov. 6, the space was made even more special by being dedicated to Michael K. Darby ’73. Darby was a four-year SGA member, President of the great Class of 1973, and lifelong supporter of Rockhurst and the greater Kansas City community. He was a founding member of Tour de Hope, a nonprofit organization built around the biking community to raise money for underprivileged children in the Kansas City area, namely through The Hope Center.
Many of Darby’s family and friends, current SGA members, and Hope Center representatives joined for the blessing and dedication ceremony.
Following a formal blessing by Fr. Thomas Pesci, SJ, President Emeritus, members of the Rockhurst community and Darby Family shared remarks about Mike and the importance of servant leadership, especially the leadership that takes place in the SGA Office for the betterment of all students.
“This SGA Office symbolizes leadership and excitement, and it’s where the Rockhurst community is made,” shared Sam Komenda ’25, Student Body Vice President. “This room embodies lifelong memories at The Rock, and it will forever hold a special place in all of our hearts.”
While Darby was taken from us too soon in 2017, his memory and spirit will live on through a perpetual scholarship in his name as well as through the Mike Darby ’73 Student Government Association Office.
“His memory will live forever,” reflected Bob Darby, Mike’s older brother. “It’s not as good as having him, but it’s the next best thing.”
Rockhurst students understand Mike’s legacy of commitment to his classmates, his alma mater, and the entire Kansas City community.
“On behalf of all of the SGA representatives, we are really grateful to be a part of a rich tradition that the Darby Family has helped us create. We are excited to honor Mike Darby by living up to his legacy,” remarked Luke Kuechler ’25, Student Body President, at the ceremony. “As seniors who are about to graduate, we look forward to the future and giving back to Rockhurst just as Mike and the Darby Family have.”
Senior SGA representatives Sam Komenda ’25, Jeb Koetting ’25, and Luke Kuechler ’25 will continue to honor Mike’s legacy by serving their fellow Hawklets.
Fr. Thomas Pesci, SJ, President Emeritus, offered a blessing of the newly-named SGA Office.
Fr. Baum helped build Rockhurst Choir into the school’s most popular co-curricular program. He wrote the school’s “Alma Mater” and would often perform at choir concerts with students.
Hagedorn, known as the “Godfather of the AquaHawks” founded the Rockhurst Swim & Dive program in 1991 and coached for nine years before trusting it to Coach Paul Winkeler.
Fr. Terrence Baum, SJ, passed away on July 29. He served Rockhurst High School as its President from 2004 to 2017.
Andy Hagedorn was a revered English teacher at Rockhurst for 35 years. He passed away on Sept. 7.
Rockhurst Honors Lives of Fr. Baum, SJ, and Mr. Hagedorn
Rockhurst High School students are expected to enter as boys (perhaps immature ones) and after four years leave as young men of competence, conscience, and compassion, serving as “men for others.”
This transformation of formation relies heavily on the leadership, guidance, and example set by the leader of the school and classrooms.
This summer and fall, Rockhurst celebrated the lives of two men who committed their lives to the betterment of young men in the Jesuit tradition.
Fr. Terrence A. Baum, SJ, was peacefully called to God on July 29 after a short stay in hospice at the St. Camillus Jesuit Community in Wisconsin following a recurrence of melanoma. He was 72 years old.
Fr. Baum served as the President of Rockhurst High School from February 2004 through June 2017, and during his tenure Rockhurs achieved many new heights and his leadership saw numerous accomplishments and positive momentum.
This included $41.3 million in fundraising; $25 million in capital improvements (Loyola Center, Hawklets Center, Dining Commons, and Interactive Learning Commons); and significant program improvements in STEAM (Rockhurst was the first accredited STEM school in Kansas or Missouri), health and wellness program, iPad program, Hurtado Scholars Program, and choral program.
Andy Hagedorn peacefully found eternal rest on Sept. 7 at the age of 76 following a period of time in hospice.
At the all-school Mass of Thanksgiving in the spring, Rockhurst celebrated Hagedorn’s 35th and final year of educating Hawklets. During his tenure, he served for many years as the English Department Chair, as a leader in teaching the school’s very successful AP English courses, and as a mentor to many teachers across all departments.
As the first head coach who is fondly known as the “Godfather of the AquaHawks”, Hagedorn founded the Rockhurst Swim & Dive program in 1991 and served the team for nine seasons, building the foundation of the program through numerous conference titles and state championship appearances. The AquaHawks now have the winningest swim & dive program in Missouri history.
Fr. Baum’s love for music will also live on at Rockhurst through the school’s “Alma Mater”, which he wrote, that is sung proudly by Rock choirs and sports teams at school assemblies, graduation ceremonies, and after football and basketball games.
Rockhurst hosted a special Mass in Fr. Baum’s memory on Aug. 28 in the Chapel of the Sacred Heart.
If you wish to make a memorial gift to honor the life and service of Fr. Baum, please visit www.rockhursths.edu/memorial and note the Rev. Terrence A. Baum, SJ, Endowment Fund
A graduate of St. Xavier High School, the Jesuit, all-boys secondary school in Cincinnati, Hagedorn set a high standard for his students, and those who came to know him beyond a classroom setting understood that his stern exterior was equalled and even surpassed by his kindness and care of interest in his students and his colleagues. As well, he possessed a deep and abiding faith as a Roman Catholic.
Exceptional at keeping in touch with many alumni across the country, Hagedorn was always willing to offer his former students his friendship, his interest in their personal and professional lives, and his wise and often witty insights, even unto many years past their graduation.
Rockhurst held a Memorial Mass and reception in celebration of Hagedorn’s life and commitment to Catholic and Jesuit education on Nov. 27.
Before passing, Hagedorn asked that any memorial gifts be directed to the Andrew S. Hagedorn Scholarship Fund at Rockhurst High School, set up by former parents and students in his name in 2020. Visit www.rockhursths.edu/memorial if you would like to make a gift in his honor.
Scan to make a memorial gift in honor of Fr. Terrence Baum, SJ, and/or Andy Hagedorn.
Sanem ’02 Leads Ignatian Spirituality Center
Adding a new chapter to a faith journey that really began here at Rockhurst High School in the late-90s, Michael Sanem ’02 was named the new Executive Director of the Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City (ISCKC) on July 1, 2024.
Sanem is an author, former Theology teacher, and currently serves as the Director of Mission and Ministry at St. Francis Xavier Parish. He previously worked in parish ministry at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in downtown KC and then Church of the Nativity in Leawood.
After continuing his Jesuit education at Loyola University Chicago, Sanem made the Spiritual Exercises for the first time in 2007. He made them again in 2018, which led to Sanem’s discernment to follow a calling in parish ministry. More prayer-filled reflection led to accepting this ISCKC role.
He is excited for this new responsibility of encouraging people from all walks of life to deepen their relationship with God, using the Ignatian Spirituality Center as a great resource.
The Ignatian Spirituality Program was formally established in Kansas City in August 2024 with St. Francis Xavier Church serving as its base of operation. The program grew into the Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City, offering short Ignatian prayer programs and providing training and strong support for Ignatian prayer guides to give the Spiritual Exercises in Everyday Life, a ninemonth commitment.
Today, ISCKC has over 40 trained Ignatian prayer guides, 250 alumni of the Spiritual Exercises, and over 1,000 people who have participated in the short programs.
While the Ignatian Spiritual Center’s main office remains at St. Francis Xavier, Rockhurst High School strengthened its connection with the ISCKC by opening a mutual office, conference room, and private consultation spaces on the school’s campus in May 2019. Construction of the facilities was made possible by a grant from the AMDG Foundation established by the Carol and Bob Miller ’46 Family
WE’LL MEET YOU WHERE YOU’RE AT, AND WE’LL HELP YOU FIGURE OUT WHERE GOD WANTS YOU TO GO.
Sanem’s goals as Executive Director include the center inspiring vocations - not just religious vocations, but encouraging anyone to make intentional commitments in their personal and professional lives; being collaborators in Christ’s mission - growing in service to parishes, to the Jesuit institutions, and to all local apostolates; and outreach evangelization - to all, but especially to young people and the marginalized.
The Ignatian Spirituality Center is open to everyone.
“Our invitation to you is to come and experience one of our retreats or programs. You really can’t give a better gift to yourself than getting involved with Ignatian Spirituality, especially when you’re in the midst of trying to make big decisions in your own life,” said Sanem. “So come and see, get involved. We’ll meet you where you’re at, and we’ll help you figure out where God wants you to go.”
Michael Sanem ’02 was named the Executive Director of the Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City on July 1, 2024. The center has a second office on the campus of Rockhurst High School.
ALUMNI ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Dr. Jim Grigsby ’68 founded and launched the University of Colorado Denver Center for Psychedelic Research in June 2024; he serves as the Executive Director and Chief Science Officer. As a Cognitive Neuroscientist, Dr. Grigsby has been studying psychedelics since 2010.
James Grimaldi ’80 was named the Executive Director of the National Catholic Reporter. Grimaldi, who has also led investigations at The Washington Post, began his new role in September. He is overseeing all aspects of NCR’s editorial content, including breaking, enterprise, and investigative reporting, while adhering to NCR’s forward-looking vision and its reputation for excellence in journalism.
Emmet Pierson ’84 was appointed to the Jackson County Sports Complex Authority by Governor Mike Parsons on June 5, 2024. Pierson serves as President and CEO of Community Builders of Kansas City, and further serves as a board member of the University of MissouriKansas City Board of Trustees and Illinois Facilities Fund.
Mark McGilley ’69, Patrick McGilley ’97, and Peter McGilley ’99 led McGilley Memorial Chapels to its 125th Anniversary. Founded in 1899, there are currently eight chapels serving the Kansas City Metro area. Mark is a fifth-generation family Funeral Director and his two sons, Patrick and Peter, represent the sixth generation.
Wade Freeman ’83, Kevin Sears ’03, and Cornell Ellis ’08 graduated from Kansas City Tomorrow’s 45th leadership class. KC Tomorrow identifies and cultivates future generations for civic engagement from the ranks of Kansas City’s up-and-coming business and community professionals. Freeman is the President of High Plains Alliance. Sears is the Vice President of JE Dunn’s Advanced Facilities Group. Ellis is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of (Brothers Liberating Our Communities (BLOC).
Matt Dehaemers ’91, an artist based in Kansas City, had a recent project featured in Kansas City Magazine in September. His endeavor, just south of Eudora, KS, was a cut-your-own flower farm with the usual garden-variety flowers intermingled with native prairie flowers.
Bobby Olm-Shipman ’92 was included on the KC Business Journal’s list of “20 to Know in Health Care.” Olm-Shipman is the CEO of two Saint Luke’s hospitals: Saint Luke’s East in Lee’s Summit, the system’s second-busiest hospital, and Saint Luke’s South in Overland Park. He has dedicated more than 20 years to Saint Luke’s, and was appointed Chairman of the Kansas Hospital Association Board of Directors in January 2024.
Joseph Nguyen ’00 and Dr. Brian Chalmers ’06 both work at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York, which is ranked as the best orthopedic hospital in the country. The two were published together in a study to determine range-of-motion predictors for repeat manipulation under anesthesia and revision surgery for stiffness after total knee arthroplasty. Nguyen, the Director of Biostatistics Core at HSS, served as the lead statistician and Dr. Chalmers served as the lead surgeon on the study.
Kevin Fallon ’99 established his own commercial loan consultancy, First Funding Source, after wrapping up a 20year career in local commercial banking. The company is dually-focused on providing resources and access to funding for businesses of all shapes and sizes and at every stage in the life cycle who may not be attractive credit risks to banks, while also helping “bankable” companies fund the bank with the best rates and terms for their particular need.
Ryan Raybould ’01 joined Kirkland & Ellis LLP as a Litigation Partner. Raybould is based in Washington, D.C. and Dallas, representing corporations, boards of directors, and executives involved in complex multijurisdictional disputes and high-stakes investigations. He spent the last four-plus years serving as Chief Counsel to former Assistant Majority Leader and U.S. Senator John Cornyn.
Alex Staab ’01 was promoted to Regional Vice President at Chicken N Pickle. Staab began working for the Kansas Citybased company in 2016 as the Director of Culinary. Chicken N Pickle started in North Kansas City and has expanded to 11 locations in Arizona, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas with five more locations opening in 2025.
Patrick O’Neill ’02 was hired as the CEO of Serviam Diagnostics, a Kansas Citybased company working in service to the transformation of how America cares for seniors by creating and bringing value to operators through economic values, efficiency, and effectiveness.
Dustin Orscheln ’02 co-founded Bellwether Management Group, a strategy execution and organizational performance company. The company offers execution framework and consulting, interim and fractional executives, retained search, and executive career counseling.
Scott Campbell ’03, Kevin Sears ’03, Matt Moderson ’04, Grant Harrison ’05, and Jack Caffrey ’09 were named to Ingram’s Magazine’s “40 Under 40” list of rising young executives. Campbell is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner at SMT Kansas City and Middle West Services, and also co-founded ^exponent in 2022. Sears is the Vice President of JE Dunn’s Advanced Facilities Group. Moderson is an Attorney and Partner at Stinson, LLP. Harrison is the Executive Vice President at VanTrust Real Estate. Caffrey is the Vice President of Finance at Rx Savings Solutions.
David Cascio ’03 was selected to the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin’s “40 Under 40” list of Illinois Attorneys to Watch for 2024. Cascio, a partner with Laner Muchin in Chicago, regularly litigates substantialexposure and high-stakes employment litigation claims, including discrimination, harassment and retaliation claims, wage and hour lawsuits, and employmentrelated torts.
Derek Hardin ’03 started a new role as Business Development Director at CreativeOne in Kansas City. Hardin worked at the company from 2013-2021 as an Annuity Sales Consultant before moving on to Synergy Wealth Solutions as an Agency Brokerage Director for three years and returning to CreativeOne in June 2024.
Michael Cappo ’04 and Peter O’Neill ’08, attorneys with Shook Hardy & Bacon in Kansas City, were selected by Best Lawyers as “Ones to Watch” as earlycareer, private-practice attorneys who stand out for their service to clients.
Cappo was noted for his product liability litigation for defendants, while O’Neill was noted for his commercial litigation.
Marc Albers ’04 was promoted to Senior Vice President of Strategy at RxLogic. Albers joined the company in April 2023 as the General Manager after previously working for MedTraxRx, Elixir, and consulting on pharmacy claim adjudication transition services. In his new role, he is responsible for developing and executing strategic initiatives to drive growth and competitive positioning.
Matt Gotchall ’04 joined The Purple Guys as the Virtual Chief Information Officer. The Purple Guys offers trouble-free IT support to businesses across the Central and Southern United States.
Matt Clifford ’05 co-founded the law firm of Clifford & Savio, LLC in Kansas City. The firm’s mission is to help people obtain the compensation they deserve after they have been injured in an accident or have lost a loved one as a result of an accident.
Clifford spent the last 12 years as an attorney at Franke Schultz & Mullen, PC where he was a partner for nearly eight years.
Jimmy Van Dyke ’05 was named the CFO of Mid-America Golf and Landscape and Mid-America Sports Construction in Lee’s Summit. Van Dyke oversees both companies and works with the ownership group to help identify areas for greater efficiency within the company and looks for opportunities for future growth on both the golf and sports construction sides.
William Orscheln ’06 started DRYmedic Restoration Services of Kansas City as its Owner and Operator. DRYmedic is a Detroit-based business specializing in commercial and residential water, fire, and mold remediation services. Previously, Orscheln worked in corporate finance, but wanted to pursue his dream of being a business owner and his passion for helping others.
Steven Roepke ’07 joined CareCentrix in Overland Park, KS as the company’s Controller. CareCentrix coordinates multiple, complex home care needs for over 16 million members through a national network of approximately 6,700 provider locations, resulting in a simplified patient and physician experience.
Conner Teahan ’07 was named to Forbes’ 2024 “Top Next-Generation Wealth Advisors Best-in-State” list. Teahan is a Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor, and Senior Portfolio Advisor with The Teahan Group at Merrill Lynch in Kansas City and has been with the company since 2012.
Dr. John Matrucci ’08 published a children’s book released in July, titled Peanut and Jelly: The Search for Butter. It is a light-hearted, short story that highlights the value of friendship for children and promotes the conservation of ocean life. Dr. Martucci is a foot and ankle surgeon practicing in Atlanta, GA.
Fr. Viet Nguyen ’08 is the Pastor of three parishes in northeast Kansas: St. Bede Parish in Kelly, St. Patrick Parish in Corning, and St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Onaga. In June, Fr. Nguyen was featured in The Leaven for organizing a Eucharistic procession in Corning for nearly 200 people from the three parishes.
Terry Smith ’08 started Hickory Golf Co., a boutique golf design agency in Kansas City. Potential clients include country clubs and municipalities, as well as designs for backyard/man cave signage, golf trips, bachelor parties, etc. Smith is an Art Director at MERGE, a Chicago-based medical marketing company with offices across the country.
Jeff Mason ’09 was named the Associate Athletic Director for Revenue Generation at the University of Southern Mississippi. Mason was previously the Associate Athletic Director for External Relations at the University of Central Missouri, where he oversaw the development, athletic communications, creative content, marketing, sponsorships and promotions, ticketing, and licensing and trademark areas for UCM Athletics.
Will Nulton ’10 was appointed as the President of St. Michael the Archangel High School in Lee’s Summit, MO, within the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph. Nulton had been a practicing attorney since 2017, most recently a Real Estate and Development Attorney with Husch Blackwell for five years. He has also served as a board member of the Bright Futures Fund since 2021.
David Barnthouse ’11 was promoted to CFO at Nueterra Capital in Leawood. Nueterra Capital invests in early and growth-stage companies. Barnthouse has been with the company for four years, starting as a Senior Financial Analyst in 2021 and then the Director of Accounting in 2023 before being named CFO in September 2024.
Ford McLiney ’11 joined the University of Pittsburgh Diving coaching staff. As an AquaHawk from 2007-2010, McLiney helped Rockhurst win four consecutive State Titles, placing in the top-three at State in diving all four years and was the 2010 State Champion. He went on to be a two-time SEC Champion and U.S. National Team member.
Eric Korth ’12 was named Partner at Norman and Graves Trial Lawyers. Korth has been with the firm since August 2019 after graduating from UMKC Law School three months prior. He primarily works on personal injury cases but also assists on class action and wrongful death cases.
Garrett Loehr ’13 was named the First Assistant Coach of the Spartanburg Methodist College men’s soccer team in Spartanburg, SC. Loehr has been a goalkeeper coach at several schools and academies including Regis Jesuit High School (CO), Minot State University (ND), Western Michigan University, Tiger Goalkeeping Institute (MI), and Carolina Elite Soccer Academy (SC).
Nick Ambrosio ’14 joined Peak Real Estate Partners as Senior Vice President. For the previous five years he was a Sales Associate with The Tiehen Group Inc. Ambrosio focuses on commercial real estate investment sales, and is also a Board Member for the Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors.
David Sandvig ’16 was named to the Kansas City Real Producers’ “40 Under 40” list. While still in college, Sandvig decided to pursue his passion in real estate and became a self-employed agent in 2018, starting Sandvig Sells KC. He joined the Berkshire Hathaway Team in 2022, but then teamed up with Keller Williams Realty in 2023 where his company currently operates.
AJ Taylor ’16 has joined Commerce Bank as a Small Business Banking Representative. He works to empower business owners to achieve their financial goals by providing tailored solutions in key areas. Taylor has been a small business owner himself, founding Gambit Games LLC in 2022 that produced board and card games.
Dr. Alex Tangen ’16 graduated with his Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Texas-Austin College of Pharmacy in May. He then began his Pharmacy residency at Baylor Scott & White Hospital Group in Temple, TX in June. Dr. Tangen had completed his undergraduate at the University of Texas-Austin, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.
Xavier Rhodes ’18 continued his professional basketball career after signing with KK Dubrovnik of the Croatia professional basketball league in July. Last year, Rhodes played in the Slovak professional league for BC Prievidza and averaged 13.0 points, 4.7 assists, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game. He played his college basketball at the University of Northern Kentucky, Florida Southern College, and Northwest Missouri State.
Tom Seitzer ’19 and Wes Porter ’20 qualified to compete in the NCAA Track & Field Championships in Eugene, OR in June and both earned All-American honors. Seitzer (Notre Dame) finished 11th in the 3000m Steeplechase and Porter (Virginia) finished 6th in the 1500m. Two days later, Porter won the Portland Track Festival 1500m in a school-record time of 3:35.63 qualifying for and running in the U.S. Olympic Trials at the end of June.
Ryan Connor ’20 (now Brother Gideon) discerned a calling to enter the novitiate for the Order of Cistercians. Located in Irving, TX at the University of Dallas, Brother Gideon’s alma mater, the Cisterian Abbey of Our Lady of Dallas and the Order of Cistercians have historical roots intertwining with the Rule of Saint Benedict and dating back to 11th century France.
Will King ’22 finished as runner-up at the 114th Kansas Amateur Golf Championship in July. In the spring, King completed his sophomore season at the University of Kansas where he was the team’s top finisher at the Big 12 Championship (T-8th overall) and was named to the Big 12 AllTournament Team.
Jack McLiney ’19 joined SAMCO Capital Markets in San Antonio, TX as an Associate Investment Banker, specializing in Public Finance. He is a fourthgeneration investment banker, following in the footsteps of his great-grandfather George McLiney (1924), grandfather George McLiney, Jr. ’54, father Mark McLiney ’83, uncles Eddie McLiney ’80 and Joey McLiney ’80, and cousin Max McLiney ’18
Peter Agnello ’20 joined Peak Real Estate Partners as an Associate Commercial Real Estate Broker. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management from the University of Kansas and gained professional experience through internships with Lockton Companies and Peak Real Estate. Agnello is responsible for new business development for corporate office users and property owners.
Boi Doumbia ’22 and Baka Kante ’24 organized and led a shoe drive that facilitated a donation of 300 pairs of athletic shoes for children in Mali, Africa. Doumbia is studying International Business and Accounting at the University of Kansas, and Kante is a freshman student-athlete at the University of Virginia on a soccer scholarship. The two are cousins and were aided by another cousin, Abdoulaye Kante, a freshman studentathlete at Rockhurst University.
Lukas Pitman ’23, a sophomore at Georgetown University, spent his 2024 spring break as a freshman in Taizé, France on a pilgrimage with Georgetown Campus Ministry. The experience helped him realize that “it’s in the little vignettes, little moments” that he’s able to dive into his relationship with God.
Alumni Marriages
Births
Brian McGannon ’05 and Kennady Gales
Jimmy Van Dyke ’05 and Megan Lankford
Connor Callahan ’08 and Melanie Veir
Jack Euston ’08 and Taryn Johnson
Patrick Miller ’08 and Rachel Lange
Sean Wirtz ’08 and Emily Godfrey
John Barnthouse ’09 and Teresa Steffens
Kaeleb Smead ’09 and Kelsey Boeding
Joe Cali ’10 and Mikaela Bengimina
Tom Keenan ’10 and Audrey Saracini
Jack Keller ’11 and Andie Hagemeier
Danny Morris ’11 and Jenny Anwander
John Bolton ’12 and Morgan El-Attrache
John Mehl ’12 and Haley Tutorino
Nick Hirner ’15 and Kathryn Fuxa
Blaise Gassman ’16 and Lizzie Henninger
Grant Hiss ’16 and Kim Ulowetz
Ryan Chandler ’17 and Chandler Kennedy
Ian Jones ’17 and Hailey Utech
Jeff Angold ’02 and Molly, a daughter, Sutton Kathryn
Joe Hager ’03 and Khanh, a son, Robert Than
John Olshefski ’03 and Ashley, a son, Max James
Kevin Walsh ’03 and Tiffany, a daughter, Elizabeth Noel
Alex Scheiber ’04 and Allison, a son, Louis Patrick
Frank Allen ’05 and Nicole, a daughter, Olivia Linda
Jason Crain ’05 and Sabrina, a son, Cairo Jaxon
Patrick Murphy ’05 and Erin, a daughter, Ellie Jean
Sam Sabaugh ’06 and Heidy, a daughter, Alice Camilla
Jack Fletcher ’07 and Sarah, a daughter, Margaret Mae
Spencer Hardwick ’07 and Phyllis, twin daughters, Grey Solène and Remington Ava
Colin Looby ’07 and Natalie, a daughter, Harper
Kelly Mercer ’07 and Molly, a son, Finnegan Michael
John Martucci ’08 and Sam, a daughter, Amanda Jean
Lucas Commodore ’09 and Janelle, a son, Calvin Patrick
Neil Eveld ’09 and Allison, a daughter, Josephine Marie
Brad Fowler ’09 and Alex, a son, Hugh Ronald
Brice Harrison ’09 and Josie, a daughter, Palmer Ann
Matt Herring ’09 and Rachel, a daughter, Norah Madeline
Tommy Keenan ’09 and Jenny, a son, Charles Matthew
Joe Rasmussen ’09 and Melanie, a daughter, Genevieve Blair
Tim Schulte ’09 and Kylie, a son, William Posey
Jon Feder ’10 and Kate, a daughter, Loretta Mairead
Will Nulton ’10 and Jordan, a daughter, Margaret Rose
Scott Herring ’11 and Robin, a son, Daniel Robert
Nick Lewis ’11 and Nicole, a son, Beckham Cole
Leo Jurgeson ’14 and Hannah, a son, Theodore Thomas
In Memoriam
Friends Alumni
Bill Heft ’50
Denny McKee ’50
Leo Kelly ’51
Dr. George Myers ’52
David Easterday ’53
Dick Henges ’53
Bill Kraper ’53
George McLiney, Jr. ’54
John Altergott ’55
Tom Fleming ’55
John Mura ’58
Tom Morris ’63
Rick Dostal ’65
John Dougherty ’65
William Mulroy, Jr. ’65
Bill Norton ’65
Tim Turner ’65
Bill Wilson ’65
Kenneth Brown ’70
Tim Kelley ’70
Thomas Mitchell ’71
Rob Sweeney ’72
David Claar ’73
B.J. Spalding ’73
William “J” McCroy ’75
Kevin O’Neill ’76
Hieu Do Pham ’01
Peter Edsall ’02
Fr. Terrence Baum, SJ
Tommasina Beil
Charlie Bittel
Marion Brancato
Oma Buchholz
Marsha Callahan
Merle Chapel
Ann Dickerson
John Eckels
Christine Gaughan
Wayne Godsey
Grace Groetzinger
Andy Hagedorn
Lee Harkins
Dana Lee Hughes
Mary Sue Karl
James Keller
Michele Klingler
Chris Krugh
Judy Lafferty
Genevieve Leap
Joseph Marzett
Dr. Jim Mavec
Maxine Pierron
Jerry Rellihan
John Ronnau
Kathy Rusconi
John Ryan
Jan Santoro
Norma Scheelhaase
Don Smith
Cheryl Steffens
Kathleen Sullivan
Gregory Suttington
Lon Switzer
William Taylor
A WORD FROM THE PRINCIPCAL
“When I think about the excellence at Rockhurst and I consider our students, it is humbling to see the ways they live out our school year theme: Servant Leadership.”
Dear Rockhurst Community,
Greetings from the Greenlease Campus on State Line Road. Not unlike the bees of the beehives that are to be installed in the springtime of 2025, Rockhurst students, faculty, and staff are abuzz with myriad, daily, well-ordered activities, all working together toward our common Mission as a Roman Catholic, Jesuit, college preparatory school “for all boys to build whole men,” that is, “men for others” who are open to growth, intellectually competent, religious, loving, and committed to justice.
To elucidate just a few of those undertakings, I first share with you the happy news of the addition of Mr. Viêt Vu, nSJ to our community for a six-week “experiment,” or probationary period of his apostolic life as a Jesuit novice. Mr. Vu has been assisting with retreats, daily Masses, and Theology classes, but is perhaps most well known for his prowess in table tennis, a daily activity which helps bring students and teachers together in good-spirited, competitive fun.
Also, earlier in the fall semester, 12 students, accompanied by Ms. Carol Dougherty, Dr. Philip Nahlik, SJ, and Dr. Tiffany Rinne, traveled to Washington, D.C. for the 27th annual Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice, engaging with nationally-recognized speakers, discussing important topics of our time, and advocating with congressional staff, all surrounding this year’s theme, “Steadfast Hope in Precarious Times,” a theme that aligns well the Universal Apostolic Preferences of the Society of Jesus.
The Class of 2025 recently undertook the second annual Senior Retreat (Kairos 4th Day Retreat), where the seniors, having divided into five groupings, spent the day in prayer and reflection at various parishes in our two local dioceses, hearing from college-aged Rockhurst alumni who were invited to give witness to their active lives of faith and to share how best to lean into such a life beyond the hallowed halls of The Rock.
And, the St. Joseph of Arimathea Society once again met the good folks of Muehlebach Funeral Care at Mount Olivet Cemetery in order to bury the cremains of around 50 Jackson County residents who died over the last many months without any known relatives who would have otherwise arranged for their interment.
To paraphrase Saint Paul’s letter to the Church of Ephesus, we have the strength for everything we do at Rockhurst and in the larger community through him who empowers us, namely, Jesus Christ, the center of our “hive” and the center of our lives!
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam,
Fr. Vincent Giacabazi, S.J. Principal, Rockhurst High School
Mr. Viêt Vu, nSJ, is spending six weeks at Rockhurst as part of his time as a Jesuit novice. In addition to teaching Theology and celebrating daily Masses, Mr. Vu can be found in the Barry Commons playing students in table tennis.
Fr. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ, led the all-school celebration of the Mass of the Holy Spirit on Sept. 4.
Twelve students and three faculty/staff members represented Rockhurst at the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice in Washington, D.C. over Oct. 26-28.
At the second annual Senior Retreat, also known as the Kairos 4th Day Retreat, Dr. Philip Nahlik, SJ, spoke to members of the senior class about the importance of continuing to live out the Kairos ideals as they become adults.
President David Laughlin (left) and Fr. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ (right) led Matthew LaSala ’25 (middle) and five other Rockhurst students in serving as pallbearers for the cremains of more than 50 Jackson County residents who were unclaimed. This ministry at Rockhurst is called the St. Joseph of Arimathea Society.
New Students & Faculty Join The Rock
offered their final day of summer
Excited and undoubtedly anxious, 227 new members of the Class of 2028 collectively stepped foot on Greenlease Memorial Campus at Rockhurst High School on Aug. 15 for Freshman Orientation.
Coming from 59 different feeder schools across the city, there were countless new faces for each new Hawklet to get to know over the next four years. Helping to ease the transition, freshman parents and guardians were invited to attend the Freshman and Freshman Parent Mass in the Rose Theater to start the memorable day.
Upperclassman volunteers spent their final day of summer welcoming the newest Hawklets to the Rockhurst community, serving as small group leaders and helping them learn the campus and facilities.
Eleven transfer students were also added to the sophomore, junior, and senior classes.
The following day, the freshmen had their first experience as “men for others.” All 227 members of the Class of 2028 spent the morning at one of 10 local organizations to assist with a variety of projects in their first of four Freshman Days For Others throughout the year.
The organizations and locations served included Elmwood Cemetery, Kanbe’s Markets, KC Parks & Recreation, KC Water Cleanup, KCK Police Athletic League, Lead To Read KC, St. Mary’s House, St. Therese Little Flower, Uplift KC, and W.E.B. DuBois Learning Center.
And on the following Monday, Aug. 19, classes began for the 2024-25 academic year.
Freshmen listened to upperclassmen explain some of the expectations of all Rockhurst students.
Upperclassmen
break to return to Rockhurst to greet 227 freshmen in the Class of 2028 and 11 transfer students.
In addition to the 238 new students becoming Hawklets, Rockhurst excitedly welcomed seven new educators to the faculty and staff.
Ben Calvano joins as a Mathematics teacher and assistant baseball coach. He played baseball at Campbell University while completing his undergrad. Coach Calvano worked as a substitute teacher and baseball coach at Shawnee Mission East High School before joining the coaching staff at the University of St. Mary where he received his Master’s in Education.
Will Gorden returns to Rockhurst after teaching and coaching at The Rock from 2006-2011. In his second stint, he is a Physical Education instructor and the head baseball coach. He was head coach at Bishop Miege from 2011-2015 and then was a coach and director of the Wuxi Development Center for MLB China and coach of the MLB Elite Camp in Taiwan. Coach Gorden came back to Kansas City in 2017 and was the head coach at Shawnee Mission East for six successful seasons.
Gabby Kelsch Bledsoe comes to Rockhurst as a parttime Computer Science teacher and holds a degree in Computer Science & Engineering from Michigan State University. Her professional background includes working as a Product Manager, Software Engineer, and SOC Analyst for several Fortune 200 companies, and Kelsch Bledsoe is currently a Cybersecurity Architect.
Stacey Lukas is the new French teacher and French Club Moderator. Most recently serving Notre Dame de Sion Grade and Middle School, she has enjoyed the full
span of PK-12 teaching at various schools throughout Kansas City. Lukas earned a BSE from the University of Kansas, and an MBA from Baker University.
Christopher Melton has been a Rockhurst track & field coach since 2022 and in 2024 joined the school’s staff as Principal’s Office Assistant. He spent the majority of his professional career engaged in training and education for Starbucks Coffee Co. in Seattle. In an effort to combine his love of education and young people, Melton is pursuing his BS in Secondary Education and Earth Science.
Karen Moore enters Rockhurst as a part-time Administrative Assistant for School Counseling and Student Activities. In June, she retired from the Raymore-Peculiar School District after 26 years. More than half of her time there was spent as a school social worker, and in her last eight years she served as the Administrative Assistant to the Athletic Director.
Stephen Powell had spent two quarters at Rockhurst as a long-term substitute for U.S. and World History classes, and is now a full-time Social Studies teacher. Powell has experience as a teaching assistant for several courses at Rutgers University and as a substitute teacher in both Catholic and public high schools in the Kansas City area. He has also worked as a historical interpreter at the Mahaffie Farm and Museum in Olathe.
New faculty and staff members for 2024-25 included (back row) Will Gorden, Stephen Powell, Ben Calvano, Christopher Melton; (front row) Stacey Lukas, Karen Moore.
Four seniors were selected as National Merit Commended Students. Pictured between David Laughlin and Fr. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ: Truman Lawhead ’25, Henry Olson ’25, Kevin McConville ’25, and Liam McGilley ’25.
Eight seniors were selected as National Merit Semifinalists. Pictured between David Laughlin and Fr. Vincent Giacabazi, SJ: Knox Nail ’25, Sam Reintjes ’25, John Skoch ’25, Aldric Yang ’25, Noah Heinen ’25, Bill Hayes ’25, Jack Brackett ’25, and Caleb Bridges ’25.
Seniors Selected to National Merit Program
Twelve seniors in Rockhurst High School’s Class of 2025 earned the distinction of National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSP) recognition.
Eight were named National Merit Semifinalists: Jack Brackett ’25, Caleb Bridges ’25, Bill Hayes ’25, Noah Heinen ’25, Knox Nail ’25, Sam Reintjes ’25, John Skoch ’25, and Aldric Yang ’25. More than 1.3 million juniors entered the 2025 competition last school year by taking the 2023 PSAT, which serves as the initial screening for program entrants. Around 50,000 earned the highest index score to qualify for NMSP recognition. Of those top students, approximately onethird, or about 16,000, are named as Semifinalists.
Rockhurst’s eight scholars accounted for 90% of the male Semifinalists from all Kansas City Metro Catholic high schools.
The next remaining two-thirds are recognized as National Merit Commended Students. Rockhurst’s four Commended seniors were: Truman Lawhead ’25, Kevin McConville ’25, Liam McGilley ’25, and Henry Olson ’25
Each of the school’s Semifinalists shared a bit about their Rockhurst experience.
Jack Brackett: “From singing in St. Peter’s Basilica to delivering arguments in a federal courtroom, Rockhurst’s co-curricular offerings have provided me with incredible experiences made possible only through the sponsorship of Rockhurst teachers, faculty, and philosophy of forming ‘men for others.’”
Caleb Bridges: “My favorite aspect of Rockhurst would definitely be the union and community that almost all of us seem to take part in. Even if not all of us are close friends with each other, we all seem to share a sort of bond that simply comes from being brothers here at Rockhurst.”
Bill Hayes: “This honor reminds me of how grateful I am to be at Rockhurst. The school perfectly balances a strong academic focus with fun co-curricular activities; and if I didn’t come to Rockhurst, I doubt that I would have been selected as a Semifinalist.”
Noah Heinen: “The amount of people around me at Rockhurst that I can rely on and talk to is almost overwhelming. Everyone is always looking for ways to help anyone that needs it, or making sure that everyone else is succeeding.”
Knox Nail: “This selection is a testament to all of the Rockhurst community and their commitment to my growth. My peers and teachers have supported me the entire time I’ve been at Rockhurst, and I’m definitely proud to be one of the hundreds of students living out the magis every day.”
Sam Reintjes: “Rockhurst fosters a caring nature. I often see and experience teachers or classmates reaching out to struggling students, while at most other schools I believe individualism is the standard.”
John Skoch: “I really just like how large the greater Rockhurst brotherhood is. At my job at a retirement home, I am often asked where I go to high school and when I reply with ‘Rockhurst’, they will almost always know someone remarkable who went here.”
Aldric Yang: “I am appreciative of the many teachers who have challenged me academically through additional information and topics, taught me how to think through different perspectives, and provided space for nuanced discussions.”
Hawklets Lead Record-Setting Food Drive
It was a record-breaking week in mid-November for Rockhurst’s Harvest Food Drive. For 25 years, students have donated canned goods for the annual Harvest Food Drive, but students have been doing an annual drive in some capacity since the late-1960s.
This year’s Hawklets DOUBLED any record from previous years.
Students rallied to donate more than 40,000 lbs. of canned goods in five days - that was over 45 lbs. donated per student. The seniors led the charge, with the Class of 2025 bringing in 21,000 lbs. of food.
Donations will benefit Bishop Sullivan Center, Catholic Charities, Christ The King Catholic Church, Redemptorist Center, Seton Center, St. Elizabeth Parish, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, St. Therese the Little Flower Catholic Church, and The Don Bosco Center.
Rockhurst students’ efforts will also lead to support for the school’s tuition assistance program through the Great Ignatian Challenge Since the challenge was first put forward in 2016 by Jim Rowen, an alumnus of Fordham Prep in New York, Jesuit schools across the country have competed to donate the most canned goods. In eight years, more than 2.2 million pounds of food have been collected and distributed across food banks and community centers. This year, 24 Jesuit schools are participating and $300,000 in scholarship funds will be split among the top-performing schools.
Money for each school’s financial assistance program is given out on a tiered basis depending how much each school collects per student. In 2023, Rockhurst was awarded $15,000 for raising 21,000 lbs. of food
THE SENIORS LED THE CHARGE, ...BRINGING IN 21,000 LBS. OF FOOD.
Jack Manning ’25 prepared to load another stack of donations to a Catholic Charities truck.
Sam Komenda ’25 pulled a cart of canned vegetables onto a truck heading to Seton Center.
Beau Neuburger ’25 pushed one of many carts of canned goods out of the Barry Commons to a waiting truck for delivery to a local food bank. Rockhurst students brought in more than 40,000 lbs. of food during the Harvest Food Drive.
Senior Supports Veterans with Roasting Business
“MEN FOR OTHERS.”
It’s a term printed on hundreds of pieces of Rockhurst merchandise, displayed throughout the halls and shown in fine print on every student’s demerit card. While this message is told to students time and time again, how many students really live out this message?
Kai Somasegaren ’25 is doing his part in being a “man for others”. In December 2023, Somasegaren and his younger brother, Berke, founded their own business, Ad Astra Roasting KC LLC, a coffee roasting company that sends all profits to the Veterans Community Project (VCP).
VCP is a nonprofit that began in Kansas City that provides tiny houses for homeless veterans. Located in six cities in five states, VCP helps veterans all across the country “regardless of discharge status or type of service.” The veterans are chosen for the tiny homes based on their respective vulnerability and need. They can be selected after an interview and background check. There are currently 49 homes at the Kansas City VCP Village near 89th and Troost.
The organization caught the eye of the brothers well before their coffee business came to life. VCP was chosen as one of the nonprofit agencies to benefit from Mission Week last school year. A representative from the project came to explain what Rockhurst students would be donating to.
“I was inspired by their talk,” Somasegaren said. “I wanted to figure out what I could do to help.”
While the profits from their coffee roasting business go to VCP, people beyond Kansas City are helped by the brothers.
“All the money that goes into buying each bag of coffee goes directly to the farmers, and it doesn’t go through some process to get them to where they’re getting limited profit,” Somasegaren said.
Ad Astra uses beans from farmers in South America, Central America and Africa, something the brothers credit with giving their product an authentic and better taste.
When Somasegaren and his brother began their roasting company in December of 2023, they started with a bit of a leg up on any competition, because they still possessed old coffee roasting supplies their father had bought out of boredom during the Covid-19 pandemic. That allows them to roast the beans in their very own home.
At the beginning of their project, they exclusively sold their Ad Astra coffee online. They would roast small batches of beans, and post how much was available on their Instagram (@ad_ astra_roasting_kc) page. People could then reach out to them if they were interested in buying them.
As the effort progressed, however, Ad Astra coffee has been made available in certain stores in the Kansas City area. The
Story written by Charlie Porto ’25 Prep News Online Editor
Kai Somasegaran ’25 (right) and his little brother, Berke (left), founded Ad Astra Roasting KC in December 2023, with all profits benefiting the Veterans Community Project (VCP). In April, they were able to donate $3,000 and in July presented another $1,000 check at the VCP offices. Photos courtesy of Ad Astra Roasting KC.
first store their beans were available in was The Barbette, a barber shop on Fifth Street. More recently, their beans have been made available in Shop Local KC, another local business located in the Brookside area. Somasegaren hopes, and plans, to have more local businesses carry their beans in the future.
Somasegaren’s goal is to raise a total of $10,000 to donate to VCP.
“Ten thousand dollars is enough to kind of help support the veteran in their tiny home and all the upkeep that a tiny house needs.”
About a month into their venture, they were already able to send VCP a check for $1,000. In early April, the brothers sent out their next check for $3,000. While they’re well on their way to achieving their goal of $10,000, their efforts won’t stop there.
“Ten thousand dollars isn’t the end all be all. Like, no, when we make it to $10,000 we’ll keep going,” Somasegaren said. “Yeah, I think that’s the plan. We’re gonna keep going, and keep trying to raise money for the Veterans Community Project.”
With Somasegaren’s senior year of high school now [underway], he knows his time left in Kansas City is limited. [Soon], he will be off to college, more than likely not close enough to home to continue the upkeep of Ad Astra. However, Somasegaren doesn’t plan on letting the business go.
“I’ll probably pass the torch on to my brother a little more,” said Somasegaren. “I might be more on the social media side of it once I am in college.”
As Somasegaran already knows, and all Rockhurst students come to learn, the work to be a “man for others” doesn’t end when you leave high school.
Update: As of Nov. 1, 2024 the Somasegaran Brothers have passed the halfway mark of their $10,000 goal.
Charlie Porto ’25, Prep News Online Editor
STUDENTS STAND OUT IN CO-CURRICULARS
Twelve students and three faculty/staff members traveled to Washington,
annual Ignatian
Teach-In
for the
A group of students and faculty/staff volunteers on one of two TIE Tennessee service trips over the summer showed off a handicap ramp they built for a family in need.
D.C.
27th
Family
for Justice. (L-R) Jahziel Carmona ’27, Shiv Patel ’26, Brady Batz ’25, Daniel Hernandez-Sandoval ’25, Bilal Mirza ’26, Carol Dougherty, Kingston Del Cid ’25, Raúl Diaz ’25, Carter Middleton ’25, Ezequiel Hernandez ’26, Oscar Lopez ’27, Dr. Tiffany Rinne, Dr. Philip Nahlik, SJ, Tyson Nguyen ’27, and Franklin Monge ’25.
With more than 45 clubs and organizations along with 13 varsity sports, there are plenty of activities for Rockhurst High School students with all interests.
These are just a few of the many highlights in recent months:
• Sixty-three students offered weeks out of their summer break to serve others through Total Ignatian Experience (TIE) immersion trips; volunteering locally (TIE KC), nationally (TIE Tennessee), and internationally (TIE Tijuana).
• Through Rockhurst’s St. Joseph of Arimathea Society, six students offered their compassion to serve as pallbearers for the cremains of more than 50 people who were unclaimed. Since the society was established at Rockhurst, students have respectfully laid to rest 500 men and women.
• Twelve students and three faculty/staff members traveled to Washington, D.C. for the 27th annual Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice. The Teach-In connects Catholic faith and justice by addressing timely issues through two days of dynamic speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. There were 1,700 attendees from 120 Jesuit and other Catholic universities, high schools, parishes, and organizations in the U.S. and El Salvador.
• Pete Mandacina ’25 and Solomon Naraine ’25 were two of 16 students nationwide who qualified for the Great Communicator Debate Series (GCDS) National Championship in Simi Valley, CA. Mandacina was a Semifinalist (top-4) and Naraine was a Quarterfinalist (top8). For the second straight year, Rockhurst was the only school in the country with multiple finalists at the national championship.
• Rockhurst’s Speech & Debate Team placed 4th in Overall Combined Sweepstakes at the Deana Butcher Classic in Springfield, MO. Patrick Sanders ’25 was the event champion in Varsity Humorous Interpretation.
• The Architecture & Engineering Club fielded three teams in the KU School of Engineering High School Design Competition. Teams were grouped by computer science, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering.
• Eleven Model United Nations students competed at the HawkMUN Conference at the University of Kansas. Eight participants received recognition, led by Pete Mandacina ’25 and Solomon Naraine ’25 being named Best Delegates and Michael Redlich ’25 and Andrew Hayes ’26 being named Outstanding Delegates.
• Members of the Software Engineering Club (CyberPatriots) competed in the K-State High School Programming Contest . Rockhurst’s two Advanced teams placed 6th and 21st out of 37 teams, and the two Beginner teams placed 20th and 28th out of 33 teams.
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Pete Mandacina ’25 (left) and Solomon Naraine ’25 (right) were two of 16 students nationwide who qualified for the Great Communicator Debate Series (GCDS) National Championship in Simi Valley, CA. Mandacina placed in the top-4 and Naraine placed in the top-8.
Rockhurst’s Speech & Debate Team placed 4th in Overall Combined Sweepstakes at the Deana Butcher Classic in Springfield, MO.
• Ben Molen ’25 and Jack Neely ’27 earned perfect scores on their National Latin Exams (NLE). Molen was among the 2.4% of perfect scores on the Intermediate Reading Comprehension Test and Neely was among the 0.7% of perfect scores on the Latin Beginners Test. Since 2005, only five Rockhurst students have earned NLE perfect scores and this was the first time having multiple in the same year.
• Eleven students participated in the ArchitectureConstruction-Engineering (ACE) Mentorship visit to the new American Royal construction site by the speedway.
• Eight Rockhurst singers were selected to the KC Metro All-District Choir Jack Brackett ’25 and Soren Ursick ’25 then auditioned for and were named to the All-State Choir; Ursick was an All-State member and Bracket earned AllState Honorable Mention honors. This was Ursick’s second selection as a member of the All-State Choir, becoming just the third Rockhurst singer to be a two-time selection in the 51-year history of the Missouri All-State Choir.
• Six Rockhurst instrumental musicians were selected to the KC Metro All-District Band, Jazz Band, and Orchestra This was the fourth consecutive selection for Ian Kennedy ’25 (alto saxophone), and the second consecutive for Ted Henning ’26 (viola) and Alex Manis ’26 (trombone). All six musicians will audition for All-State honors in December.
• Rockhurst started an official eSports team. Led by Coach Tyler Baker and team captain Joshua Brown Hays ’26, the Hawklets have teams competing in Overwatch and Rocket League.
• Swim & Dive team members JJ Frank ’25 and Logan Frank ’25 received the Sacrament of Confirmation and were guided by their sponsors - and AquaHawk teammatesAndy Baklanov ’25 and Henry Huber ’25
The Architecture & Engineering Club fielded three teams in the KU School of Engineering High School Design Competition. (L-R) Lukus Lamming ’26, Jeremy Smith ’26, Harvest Ott ’28, Maddox Hillmer ’28, Cole Cress ’27, Henry Bosco ’25, Michael Denk ’25, Connor Deady ’25, and Bennett Lembke ’26.
Eleven Model United Nations students competed at the HawkMUN Conference at the University of Kansas.
Members of the Software Engineering Club (CyberPatriots) competed in the K-State High School Programming Contest.
Ben Molen ’25 (left) and Jack Neely ’27 (right) earned perfect scores on their National Latin Exams (NLE ).
Eleven students participated in the Architecture-Construction-Engineering (ACE) Mentorship visit to the new American Royal construction site by the
speedway.
Six Rockhurst instrumental musicians were selected to the KC Metro All-District Band, Jazz Band, and Orchestra. L-R next to Cameron Akagi, Director of Instrumental Music: Alex Manis ’26, George Kennedy ’26, Jabari Cambridge ’25, Ian Kennedy ’25, Will Draper ’26, and Ted Henning ’26.
Jack Brackett ’25 (left) and Soren Ursick ’25 (right) earned All-State Choir honors. Rockhurst Choirs is under the direction of Dr. Kevin Coke (middle).
Rockhurst started an eSports Team that competes in Overwatch and Rocket League. Team members include (L-R) Aiden Evett ’27, Joshua Brown Hays ’26, Miguel Chavez ’26, Brody Jacobson ’26, and Daniel Hernandez-Sandoval ’25.
Swim & Dive team members JJ Frank ’25 (middle left) and Logan Frank ’25 (middle right) received the Sacrament of Confirmation and were guided by their sponsors - and AquaHawk teammates - Andy Baklanov ’25 (right) and Henry Huber ’25 (left).
Henry Acorn ’25 was the individual State Champion and went undefeated against all Missouri runners in his historic senior season. He set a new school record of 14:52, which was also the third fastest time in MSHSAA history. Acorn committed to running at the University of Virginia.
Andy Baklanov ’25 celebrated after seeing that he broke the Missouri state record in the 200 IM at the State Meet. Baklanov, who also won the 100 Backstroke for the second consecutive year, finished the 200 IM in 1:46.69, shattering the previous record by almost a full second.
Photo courtesy of MSHSAA.
Rockhurst Football finished the season with a 6-4 record. A highlight of the year was beating St. Pius X 24-12 in the first meeting of the two schools since 1974. In that game, fullback and linebacker Beau Neuburger ’25 ran through this Pius tackle attempt for a chunk of his 81 rushing and receiving yards on the night.
Rockhurst Cross Country won the 2024 State Championship, scoring an impressive 59 points to win the team title. That was the program’s third State Championship, all since 2016. The team then finished 2nd at Nike Regionals and earned one of just 22 spots at Nike Cross Nationals in Portland, OR.
The Soccer Hawklets finished 3rd at State after a 21-2-0 season. It was the team’s fourth consecutive Final Four appearance, and four-year varsity senior players on the team finished their Rockhurst careers with a combined record of 90-6-2 with three State Titles and the 2023 National Championship.
Cross Country Wins State Title to Highlight Fall Sports Season
The Cross Country Hawklets raced their way to the 2024 State Title on Nov. 8 at Gans Creek Park in Columbia. This was the program’s third State Championship (2016, 2018, 2024 - all under Head Coach Mike Dierks ’91 who has led the program since 1997). The Hawklets were dominant, scoring 59 points (25 points ahead of SLUH, the runner-up) and were led by four All-State runners, capping off what Missouri MileSplit called “arguably the most impressive season we have ever seen in Missouri.”
Henry Acorn ‘25 became the third individual State Champ for Rockhurst (joining Zach Herriott ‘12 and Wes Porter ‘20), running the third-fastest time in MSHSAA history (14:52.40) and setting a new school record. He is also the first-ever Hawklet to earn All-State honors all four years (24th, 6th, 4th, 1st). Fellow senior teammates Andrew Davis ‘25 and Kai Somasegaran ‘25 earned All-State honors for the second straight year, as Davis placed 5th (15:13) and Somasegaran placed 17th (15:37).
Also finishing in the top-10 individually was Jack McGovern ‘28, running to best-ever finish for a Rockhurst freshman as he placed 8th overall; his time of 15:17.60 exactly tied the Missouri record for a freshman and made him the 10th fastest freshman in the country this season.
The team’s fifth and final scorer at State was another freshman, Jack Morrison ’28, who placed 43rd in 16:13.
The Hawklets then ran at Nike Regionals for the Midwest in Terre Haute, IN on Nov. 16. Among 34 top teams in the Midwest, Rockhurst finished 2nd, earning a qualification to Nike Cross Nationals on Dec. 7 in Portland, OR. Only 22 teams across the country get to compete at Nationals each year, and Rockhurst became just the second Missouri team ever - boys or girls - to qualify for Nationals, and the first since 2006.
The AquaHawks brought home runner-up honors at the State Meet over Nov. 14-15.
Rockhurst scored 294 points, just 34 points behind the champions from SLUH. The 294 points from The Rock was the most ever scored by a 2nd place team in Missouri boys history.
Individually, Andy Baklanov ‘25 cemented himself as one of the greatest AquaHawk swimmers in the program’s storied history. He won the 200 IM in 1:46.69, breaking the state record by almost a full second, and then won the 100 Back for the
second straight year, finishing in 48.28. He was also a member of the 200 Medley and 400 Free Relays that both took 2nd.
For his Rock career, Baklanov was a three-time individual State Champ, two-time relay State Champ, State Runner-Up in one individual event, State Runner-Up in two relays, and 3rd, 5th, and 15th in individual events going back to his freshman season. He was a member of Team State Titles in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
The AquaHawks still own a Missouri-record 15 State Titles and now have two 2nd Place finishes, all since 2005 under Head Coach Paul Winkeler
The Soccer Hawklets, ranked in the top-20 nationally through the entirety of the season, finished the regular season with a 16-1-0 record; the only loss came in a penalty kick shootout. Rockhurst cruised through Districts and the State Quarterfinals, going 4-0 with four shutouts. The team earned a fourth consecutive, and Missouri-leading, 29th State Final Four appearance. Rock suffered a 3-1 loss to De Smet in the semifinals, but bounced back with a 6-1 win over Liberty North to bring home the 3rd Place trophy.
The Hawklets had a +65 goal differential on the season, scoring 79 while allowing just 14 and tallying 13 shutouts over 23 matches, headlined by goalkeeper Luke Strueby ’26. Offensively, Asende Welongo ’26 led the way with 26 goals and seven assists; scoring the most goals for a Hawklet since 2010.
Rock Football started its season 5-0 with wins over St. Pius X, Raymore-Peculiar, Olathe North, Lee’s Summit West, and Bishop Miege. In the back half of the season, the Hawklets found themselves in tight games every week, but came up on the wrong side in one-score games. Three of four losses were by three points or fewer, including a 17-14 District Semifinal loss to Lee’s Summit.
Rock ended its season with a 6-4 record, picking up a win in the regular season finale at SLUH.
Standout players included Jeb Koetting ’25 a three-year starting linebacker, who tallied 112 tackles in 10 games in his senior campaign, quarterback Charlie Loose ’25, completing 70% of his passes for 1,584 yards and accounting for 16 total touchdowns, and Jack Manning ’25, a starting lineman on both sides of the ball who is committed to playing at Army. Looking ahead to 2025, the Hawklets will return 11 key starters.
