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ONE IN CHRIST – FOR OTHERS

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

2025-26 PRESIDENT’S REPORT 1

CONTENTS

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

MISSION & VISION

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

BOARD CHAIR’S MESSAGE

LEADERSHIP ROSTERS, 2025-26

ONE IN CHRIST – FOR OTHERS

PHILANTHROPY & ENGAGEMENT MESSAGE

FINANCIAL AID FIGURES

CHARITABLE GIVING TO ROCKHURST

JULY 2025

AUGUST 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025

OCTOBER 2025

NOVEMBER 2025

DECEMBER 2025

JANUARY 2026

FEBRUARY 2026

MARCH 2026

APRIL 2026

MAY 2026

JUNE 2026

On the cover: Seniors in the Class of 2026 embarked on the 4th Day Retreat on Oct. 15, 2025. This senior experience is an extension of the Kairos Retreat during a student’s junior year.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Mission Rockhurst High School serves the greater Kansas City area by educating Ignatian leaders, “men for others”, in the Roman Catholic, Jesuit college preparatory tradition. In the spirit of Saint Ignatius Loyola, its goal is the formation of the whole person within a diverse and disciplined environment, as one who is open to growth, strives for academic excellence, is religious, loving, and committed to justice through service.

Vision Rockhurst High School will be sought out and recognized for its ability to educate “men for others”. Rockhurst High School will, in the Jesuit tradition, foster lifelong friendships based on enduring principles and Ignatian values. It will be nationally and locally recognized as the best value-added education because of its success in developing community leaders for an increasingly diverse world.

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PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

President David Laughlin addressed the great Class of 2026 and attendees of Rockhurst High School’s 110th Commencement Exercises on May 17, 2026.

Dear Rockhurst Community, In gratitude, I write to you to say “thank you” for what you helped to make possible in an outstanding 2025-26 school year at Rockhurst High School. Prayerfully reflecting on the past year, it is humbling to see the depth and breadth of achievement of the young men of Rockhurst, the commitment of their faculty and administration, coaches and moderators in accompanying their journey.

A letter summarizing a year to say “thank you” will undoubtedly fall short of expressing the great variety of successes in our school year, but here are a few highlights to consider just how high our Hawklets soared.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

We welcomed one of our largest freshmen classes in many years and they were accompanied with our new Principal, Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J. From the start, this new group enlivened our school year from the tremendous spirit of the Class of 2029 to the birthday blessings and seemingly ever-present Fr. Kramer! Academically, our seniors led area Catholic schools in recognition from the College Board. Our Hurtado Scholars scored the highest entrance testing scores in the history of the program. Our students started various academic experiences of project-based learning for credit, working alongside the school for alternative academic options related to professional experiences. Our young men competed in competitions from robotics, to coding, to civics, chorus, band, speech & debate, and they were nominated for a recent record number of theater awards. In so very many opportunities explored, our young men performed at the highest levels with great rigor. Athletically, it could be argued that across the entire athletic program, it was one of the most consistently successful years in our school’s history. Though there may have been years with a greater number of State Championships, the balance of our Hawklet athletics programs was something to behold. Consider: six district championships; nine top-four finishes at State level; 15 topfour individual finishes at State; three individual State Champions; 79 All-District honorees; 43 All-State honorees; 91 Academic All-State honorees; and an average GPA in our rigorous curriculum of 3.67! Our Track & Field Team surprised many people by winning our second consecutive State Title, and did so on the final day of competition having won no other varsity meet all year long! In the formation of Faith, including the practice of serving others, these young men continued to respond to the call of the school year theme: One in Christ – For Others. An incredible Core Team led the Freshman Retreat, and a significant number of upperclassmen led their peers on the longestablished Kairos Retreat. Four freshman service days started our year with a heartwarming story of unsolicited news coverage for cleaning up the Blue River from a mountain of abandoned tires and other trash, to persons in the Kansas City community contacting the school to give testimony to the goodness of those young men. Seniors again traveled to Guatemala to build housing for the poor, and an abundance of local locations in Kansas City experienced

Hawklets dropping in on a regular basis to accompany the elderly, help the parish, serve the poor, homeless, or hungry. Our Harvest Food Drive set an all-time record of pounds of food donated, and placed our school in a position to receive recognition in the Great Ignatian Challenge – a competition among Jesuit high schools to donate food to the poor near the Thanksgiving Season. In Sacraments, our Jesuits, as well as our local Bishop, and at times various priests of our local Church, helped our young men grow through the graces provided in Mass, Confessions, and the Sacrament of the Sick. We were privileged to have Bishop James Johnston, Jr. celebrate our Mass of the Holy Spirit, and grateful to Fr. Kramer, Fr. Carlos Esparza, S.J., and Fr. Derrick Weingartner, S.J., for regularly offering Mass and Confessions to our community. Rockhurst High School continues in its pursuit of excellence by the gift of the election of those in our community. The discerned choice to attend Rockhurst or teach at Rockhurst is well thought out. Then, the choice to apply oneself with great energy leads to an unfolding to the witness of these many gifts of our young men, and many more not listed in this note. It is indeed humbling. The fact is that it could not and would not happen without your support. In the context of all of last year’s successes, I think it says a great deal that a good portion of our staff energy also involves moving forward strategic initiatives for improvement upon the excellence of the programs we offer. From increased financial accessibility to compensation for our teachers; from beginning a transportation program to envisioning a new counseling approach or a new baseball stadium, the fun work of progress accompanied a tremendous school year. I hope this edition of the President’s Report confirms for you the proper stewardship of your philanthropy for the mission of Rockhurst. On behalf of the young men you serve, I say God bless you! One in Christ – For Others. God bless,

David J. Laughlin President, Rockhurst High School

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

BOARD CHAIR’S MESSAGE

Amy Holewinski, who began her service as Chair of the Board of Trustees in July 2025, congratulated all members of the great Class of 2026 during Rockhurst High School’s 110th Commencement Exercises on May 17, 2026.

This past year marked my first as Chair of the Board of Trustees and my sixth year of service to Rockhurst High School. My connection to Rockhurst began not as a trustee, but as a parent, when our oldest son chose Rockhurst for its strong academics, competitive athletics, and close-knit brotherhood. Though my husband, Paul, and I are practicing Catholics, I knew little then about Jesuit education. Through the experiences of our three sons, all Rockhurst graduates, and through my years of service – including a deeply meaningful Trustee pilgrimage to Spain – I have come to appreciate the transformative power of a Catholic, Jesuit education. Rockhurst’s Jesuit identity is its defining strength. It shapes not

only what our students learn, but who they become: young men of faith, character, compassion, and purpose. Viewed through the lens of this important mission, the past year has been one of meaningful accomplishment as evidenced throughout the President’s Report. We are deeply grateful for the exceptional leadership of President David Laughlin. Under his guidance, Rockhurst continues to thrive. Strong financial stewardship, healthy enrollment, continued academic excellence, and significant progress on our strategic plan have positioned the school well for the future.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Among these accomplishments, two priorities are especially important to Rockhurst’s future: 1. Our continued commitment to the Formation of the Whole Person. Under the leadership of our new Principal, Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J., Rockhurst is deepening its approach to forming young men for lives of faith, leadership, and service. This intentional formation program extends well beyond the classroom. Through academics, athletics, co-curricular activities, retreats, service, Ignatian spirituality, and enhanced counseling support, our students grow in competence, conscience, and compassion. 2. The extraordinary strength of the Rockhurst Community. Exceptional faculty and staff, engaged parents, loyal alumni, generous benefactors, dedicated Jesuits, and Kansas City partners sustain our mission and help keep a Rockhurst education accessible. Our needs-blind admission policy and commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need reflect our belief that every young man called to a Rockhurst education should have the opportunity to attend.

Having witnessed the impact of Rockhurst as both a parent and trustee, I am filled with gratitude and optimism. I invite you to continue participating in our mission – attend an Ignatian speaker event, cheer on our Hawklets, volunteer your time, mentor a student, or support the school philanthropically. Every act of engagement strengthens our ability to form young men for and with others who seek the greater glory of God through lives of faith, justice, service, and love. With gratitude,

Amy D. Holewinski Chair of the Board of Trustees

“Admittedly, I didn’t realize the formation Rockhurst was producing in me until I was formed. My Rockhurst experience is rooted in this loving formation that is at the core of Rockhurst.” -Ryan Adamson ’26 Pittsburg State University

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP 2025-26

“Coming into Rockhurst, I heard a lot about brotherhood. Leaving as a senior, I learned the true meaning of it. At Rockhurst, the bonds I have made will no doubt be lifelong.” -Ivan Burns ’26 8Syracuse University

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Amy D. Holewinski Board Chair Terrence D. Anderson ’02 Matthew J. “Trey” Bowen III ’95 Rev. Daniel J. Daly, S.J. Gregory J. Fendler ’94 Stephen M. Flores ’93 Michael L. Garrett Spencer H. Hardwick ’07 Gerald A. Kelly, Jr. ’73 Drew Komenda David J. Laughlin Shannon M. Lillis Rev. Gerald E. Menard, S.J. Rev. John M. “Michael” Mohr, S.J. Dr. Gregory F. Muehlebach ’80 Ivan L. Nugent ’99 Courtney A. O’Farrell Stephen D. Penn Gregory P. Reintjes ’81 Terrence J. Sexton ’87 Jeffrey J. Simon Michael B. Trigg ’96 Rev. Derrick J. Weingartner, S.J.

David J. Laughlin President Kelly A. Herdlick Executive Assistant to the President Rev. Stephen M. Kramer, S.J. Principal Dr. Diane J. Marty, EdD Executive Vice President of Strategic Planning & Vice President of Philanthropic Investments Allen K. Roberson ’84 Vice President of Administration & Chief Financial Officer Mark S. Blanck, Jr. ’98 Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement John B. DeGraffenreid Director of Facility Management

NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF GOVERNORS Spencer H. Hardwick ’07 President Todd A. Schieffer ’90 Vice President Blaise A. Gassman ’16 Secretary Kevin B. Farrell ’92 Andrew J. Miller ’16 Michael L. Nigro ’01 John R. Oades ’67 David C. Sandvig III ’16 Nick A. Scott ’97 Henry J. Thomas ’06

PHILANTHROPY & ENGAGEMENT OFFICE Mark S. Blanck, Jr. ’98 Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement Turner R. “Robbie” Haden ’09 Director of Communications & Branding Moira Kelly Healy Director of Engagement Dr. Diane J. Marty, EdD Executive Vice President of Strategic Planning & Vice President of Philanthropic Investments Martin J. Radosevic, Jr. ’16 Director of Community Engagement Timothy R. Reidy ’02 Archives Director and Faculty Member Sylvia Medina Smith Auction Consultant Meredith L. Suarez Director of Alumni Engagement Loretta Verbanic Gifts & Stewardship Specialist

PARENTS’ CLUB LEADERSHIP Lyndy Volker President

SPECTACULAR AUCTION 2026 CO-CHAIR COUPLES Julie Walker Browne & Pete Browne ’85 (Legacy Co-Chair Couple) Susie & Chuck Caisley (Legacy Co-Chair Couple) Kristin & Greg Kratofil ’92 (Legacy Co-Chair Couple) Shannon & Jim Ortbals Colleen & Bill Teasdale ’93

Rockhurst High School also thanks Lisa Connor, Nancy Czinege, and Sarah Murray for their incredible dedication to the Philanthropy & Engagement Office and the school as a whole. They have continually dedicated their time and talent to the betterment of the young men of Rockhurst and their families.

MAKE YOUR GIFT

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

ONE IN CHRIST – FOR OTHERS President David Laughlin announced the 2025-26 school year theme on July 1, 2025

Dear Rockhurst Community, It’s July! The time of school breaks, summer vacations, and extended family visits. Years ago, when traveling on longer trips to see family or take a vacation, we had a Rand McNally map that was in the car in its fine faux leather plastic case, usually rolled up in the glove compartment or under a seat. And, as we’d travel, we would have to estimate certain turns on that map if mileage distance between cities wasn’t listed by using a scale legend that showed how to estimate miles based upon the number of inches on the map. Somehow, we always got to where we were going. Then, times modernized and this thing called the internet was invented and a program called MapQuest allowed us to ask for turn-by-turn directions, and then we’d print them out and take them in the car to save us from flipping through the book with the faux leather plastic cover. Our direction capabilities depended as much on printer ink as anything else. Now, I recognize right now if you’re reading, one of two things is happening. One audience is fondly recalling all of this too. And another audience is thinking to themselves: “the president of my school is a dinosaur.” Well, flash forward now and we generally don’t have to do too much thinking or paying attention in getting directions. We ask our phone machine for directions and then just follow a voice we can set to any number of accents and gender voice settings to get to our destinations. Regardless of the system that has helped to provide me direction over the years, a couple of truths exist: 1) I had a purpose for why I was traveling to my destination; and 2) someone else put together the map information and plan to help me get to where I was going. I didn’t get there on my own. Having a purpose and a direction is something human beings think about every day. We desire an anchor for our purpose and we seek proper direction for our lives. What is the purpose of our existence and where are we, ultimately, going? The questions seem to come to us as a part of our creation, but finding direction in this world can be difficult in the chaos. We need purpose and direction. Jesuit Father Karl Rahner, S.J., approached questions of faith not by some exercise in logic and proof, but considering the common experience of human existence. Fr. Rahner rightly noted that we human beings find ourselves in a constant set of questioning about the purpose of our existence both here and now as well as for 10

eternity. He called this questioning, as a condition of our creation, a “preconceptual grasp” of God’s infinite horizon. These questions, Fr. Rahner would observe, point people on a pathway to God. He also observed that human persons experience transcendental moments – where the big questions come to us or perhaps, we are offered peace and clarity about the nature of the purpose of our creation. God communicating to us in these questions, that are common to all human beings, is the initiation from God that is the foundation of Christianity, and is most evidenced by Jesus Christ coming to be one among us to offer clarity for the purpose of our existence. Jesus Christ is the anchor and the direction. And the direction of our lives can have an orientation grounded in that purpose – both for now, and for eternity. Paul’s letter to the Galatians (3:28) said it pretty straight forward: “For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” I suspect that we have the most geographically diverse high school in Kansas City. Consider that, in the past nine years, students from 142 feeder schools have attended Rockhurst High. And, to work at Rockhurst with our young men, and hopefully to read about them in our publications and social media, you can see that we have a group of students with an incredibly diverse array of gifts and talents. Those gifts and talents, bestowed upon them in the creation of their life, also exhibit a diversity which has a variety of impact while they are in our school. And yet, our boys come to us with those talents, but also with the ever-growing reality of what it means to be human as these questions of purpose come with greater frequency. There’s a saying I once heard, that has also been part of my life’s experience working with the Society of Jesus: Meet five Jesuits, get six opinions. The point of this simple phrase reflects the truth about parts of the charism of the Society of Jesus. Jesuits are men anchored in Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church, who have a diverse set of gifts, interests, talents, and capabilities. And, as they engage in the world, using the gift of discernment (provided by St. Ignatius in mastering the practice of the Spiritual Exercises) it should be little surprise that the manifestation of their vocations can look very different throughout the world. Wherever they are engaged, bringing the Gospel and Christ is the goal. The approach, methodology, and effectiveness might be different. They have also chosen to be one in community in what anchors them, even amidst their diversity.

As a Jesuit high school, we are one manifestation of the charism of the Society of Jesus. And, like Jesuits, our faculty have a diverse set of talents and interests, anchored in our mission. Considered an intellectual apostolate of the Society of Jesus, our mission is to educate and form the young men we serve, preparing them for success in higher education and including the priority of helping them to come to know Christ more intimately during their years with us.

“So, if there is any encouragement in Christ, any incentive of love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.” (Philippians 2:1-2)

It’s unfair to list examples, because too many will be forgotten, but broadly speaking, our students excel in: academics, fine and performing arts, engineering, computers, robotics, STEM, athletics, community service, speech & debate, mock trial ... you get the idea!

Jesus Christ is THE model “man for others”, up to and including sacrificing his life for us. That orientation toward others is our model. And we also can heed the words of Jesus as we anticipate our coming year:

Our school motto: Sapientia in Christo – Wisdom in Christ – shouts the anchor of our school. And, our diversity of feeder school, academic or co-curricular talent, race, or interests, all come together under the banner of the cross. To be successful as a school and as a model for the world, we must work to be One in Christ. That’s our anchor. Our purpose. Our goal. And, we must have a direction. An orientation. And we do! Fortunately, for over 500 years in the tradition of Jesuit education, there is another motto: Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam – for the greater glory of God. The map makers before us have laid out a clear set of directions that give our formation its orientation. St. Ignatius noted in what he called the First Principle and Foundation of the Spiritual Exercises that “…all the things of this world are created so that we can come to know God more easily and make a return of love more readily.” We can be diverse, unique, with many interests and direction and we can be one community, grounded in our tradition. We are to be One in Christ, dedicating all of our thoughts, words, and actions to God’s greater honor and glory and having an orientation ‘for’ the ‘other’, especially those most in need. Our School Year Theme for 2025-26 is: One in Christ – For Others.

St. Paul wrote to the Philippians the following:

Those same words ring true from St. Paul to the Rockhurst community in 2025-26.

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the father, but by me.” (John 14:6) Let’s hold one another in prayer this summer in anticipation of all that is to come this school year. Let’s pray for unity in Christ and an orientation to serve the world for God’s greater honor and glory. And Rockhurst parents, if this letter causes your child to completely ignore the school year theme message and instead to ask “Mom and Dad, do YOU remember a time before the internet?!” please accept my apologies in advance for aging you to your children. Pope Leo’s Motto: In the One, we are one. With every best wish to the Rockhurst community from State Line Road, God bless,

David J. Laughlin President, Rockhurst High School July 1, 2025

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

PHILANTHROPY & ENGAGEMENT MESSAGE As I reflect on the past fiscal year, I can’t help but think about the privilege of traveling to 14 cities to reconnect with our alumni across the country and right here in Kansas City. Through those visits and working alongside our Alumni Board, Class Captains, and the countless alumni who welcomed us, I was reminded over and over again of the lasting impact a Rockhurst education has on a young man. Every graduate has a story. For some, it was a Jesuit who challenged him to deepen his faith and become a “man for others.” For others, it was a coach like Al Davis, Tony Servino, or Eric Berg who instilled values through the game of football; or Mike Dierks ’91 who developed his athletes as runners and leaders; or a moderator who sparked a passion through a co-curricular activity; or one of the countless teachers like Andy Hagedorn who dedicate their lives to educating young men in the Jesuit tradition. One alumnus from the great Class of 1968 shared an incredible story about his basketball coach, Marion Nickel, and how Coach Nickel’s belief in him helped shape the course of his life. More than 50 years later, the impact of that relationship is still as meaningful as ever.

Mark Blanck ’98

Throughout the year, I also had the opportunity to visit with current parents and grandparents at events like the Mother-Son Luncheon, Grandparent Mass & Brunch, and many other gatherings. Time after time, they shared how amazed they were by the growth they have seen in their sons and grandsons. One parent told me her son discovered a love for choir, despite never having participated in music before – and went on to compete at the district level. A grandparent shared that his grandson came to Rockhurst

Heading into the 2026-27 academic year, Rockhurst High School is excited for a special announcement focused on strengthening every aspect of The Rock! The school community will host a special on-campus event on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. To learn more and register for this free event, visit rockhursths.edu/announcement. If you’re out of town - or in town but cannot join us - please join the livestream of the event at rockhursths.edu/announcement/live.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

“I will miss looking around and seeing fellow students interacting with teachers and staff like they are their best friends; and I will miss being in a special community like one that the Jesuits offer.” -Campbell Luzar ’26 University of Missouri-Columbia

focused almost exclusively on athletics, but has since developed a passion for Model UN and Speech & Debate, working with dedicated faculty members like Phil Helt ‘07. These stories are not accidents. They happen because of the opportunities made possible by the generosity of our Rockhurst community. Each year, Rockhurst must raise more than $5.5 million to support its mission. These operational dollars come from the Eyrie Fund (annual fund), Spectacular Auction, Hurtado Scholars Program, and Hawklet Leadership Fund. The Hawklet Leadership Fund helps offset the cost of more than 75 athletic and co-curricular programs, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to discover new passions, develop their Godgiven talents, and become the leader they are called to be.

Your support makes these life-changing experiences possible. It ensures that today’s students will one day look back and remember the Jesuit, teacher, coach, or mentor who believed in them and changed the trajectory of their lives – just as generations of Rockhurst Hawklets have for more than 110 years. Thank you for making that impact possible. Thank you for investing in the next generation of Rockhurst men. AMDG,

Mark Blanck ’98 Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement

Rockhurst alumni in New York joined together for an event on Nov. 4 at Xavier High School. This was one of 14 out-of-town alumni gatherings during the year hosted by Rockhurst’s Philanthropy & Engagement Office, ranging from San Diego, CA to Providence, RI – reuniting hundreds of Hawklet alumni along the way. Pictured: more than two dozen Rock alumni attended the New York event.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT REPORT 2025-26 2025-26 PRESIDENT’S

Members of the Class of 2026 wore shirts of their future colleges and universities to celebrate National College Decision Day.

“Going to Rockhurst has been the best decision I have made so far. No other school in the area offers the amount of opportunities to grow, serve, lead, compete, learn, and build connections that Rockhurst does. Rockhurst is one-of-a-kind.” -Cooper Clifft ’26 University of Notre Dame

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

FINANCIAL AID FIGURES $2.94M

IN FINANCIAL AID AWARDED

40%

OF FAMILIES RECEIVED FINANCIAL AID

11%

13%

11%

15%

36%

INCOME > $225K

INCOME $200K-$225

INCOME $175K-$200K

INCOME $150K-$175K

INCOME $125K-$150K

INCOME $100K-$125K

INCOME $75K-$100K

INCOME < $75K

CHARITABLE GIVING TO ROCKHURST Giving Breakdown

2,969

$6,934,634

$1,980,580

DONORS

GIFTS & NEW PLEDGES (7/1/2025 - 6/30/2026)

NAMED INVESTMENT FUNDS

$1,778,830

$3,175,224

Current Parent Giving =

Spectacular Auction Raising The Rock

78% Alumni Giving = 10%

Eyrie Fund

Gift Constituency

DONOR #

■ Alumnus (1,090) ■ Current Parent (699) ■ Past Parent/Grandparent (471) ■ Friend (353) ■ Donor Advised Fund (161) ■ Business/Organization (70)

■ Faculty/Former Faculty (51) ■ Foundation (42) ■ Board of Trustees (18) ■ Matching Gift (11) ■ Estate (3)

DONOR $

■ Alumnus ($1,833,110) ■ Current Parent ($973,736) ■ Past Parent/Grandparent ($735,700) ■ Friend ($171,035) ■ Donor Advised Fund ($949,498) ■ Business/Organization ($260,744)

■ Faculty/Former Faculty ($33,894) ■ Foundation ($916,543) ■ Board of Trustees ($241,389) ■ Matching Gift ($12,879) ■ Estate ($806,106)

Eyrie Fund Gifts Received by Category $1,531,399

Eyrie Fund: Unrestricted Gifts

$489,174

Eyrie Fund: Designated Gifts

$157,431

Tuition Assistance Gifts

$752,722

Hurtado Scholars Program Gifts

$51,413

Athletic Sponsorships

$193,085

Hawklet Leadership Fund

“I am going to miss the special connections to everyone within Rockhurst High, but I am also looking forward to building ones in new communities.” -Liam Dean ’26 Rockhurst University

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

JULY 2025

Rockhurst Welcomes Principal Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J.

Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J., began his service as Principal of Rockhurst High School on July 1, 2025. Pictured: celebrating the New Faculty & Staff Orientation Mass on Aug. 15, 2025.

Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J., was announced as the new Principal of Rockhurst High School in March 2025, and officially joined the Rockhurst community on July 1 at the start of the new academic year.

New Orleans, LA. He also spent time in Jesuit high schools teaching Theology, History, and Mathematics. Prior to joining Rockhurst, he completed his Tertianship program (Jesuit formation) in Nairobi, Kenya.

Fr. Kramer graduated from St. Louis University High School and then SLU with a degree in Philosophy and Letters, and later earned master’s degrees from Boston College in Divinity and Theology with a focus on Ignatian Studies.

Upon arriving at Rockhurst, Fr. Kramer shared that his goals are rooted in doing all things for the greater glory of God. He desires to promote an ever-deepening unity in the Rockhurst brotherhood and family, centered in Christ. He hopes to help foster a community where students, faculty, and families encounter God’s uniting love through rigorous education, world-changing service, and life-changing spiritual growth.

He has served in a variety of roles in his 20 years in the Society of Jesus, including as the Prefect of Students and Special Assistant to the President at Jesuit High School in 18

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Through a partnership with the new AMDG Program at Boston College, 10 Rockhurst students attended the first phase of the inaugural year-long program of faith exploration and service. The group traveled to Boston from July 13-18 for the AMDG Kick-Off. Participants were chosen from 15 high schools, five colleges and universities, and five parishes from across the country. Pictured: Rockhurst’s student group on the campus of Boston College

Eight Hawklets had the opportunity to attend a 12-day trip to Japan led by Mrs. Jackie Shao, Rockhurst’s Mandarin Chinese teacher. The group visited Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, witnessing the profound and intertwined influence of Chinese culture and writing on Japanese traditions. They also gained invaluable firsthand insight into the unique aspects of Japanese daily life and customs. Pictured: in front of the Senso-Ji Temple in Tokyo.

Over the summer, students participated in four Total Ignatian Experience (TIE) service trips. Two were to Robbins, TN for TIE Tennessee, during which the groups partnered with Habitat For Humanity Appalachia to complete home improvement projects. One TIE KC, students spent seven days working with Jerusalem Farm and Pendleton Heights Garden. On TIE Tijuana, students helped build houses in underserved communities of Mexico. In total, 52 Hawklets attended one of the four service trips. Pictured: the second TIE Tennessee cohort on a front porch ramp constructed by the group.

AUGUST 2025

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

Large Freshman Class Welcomed at The Rock

All 261 members of Rockhurst’s Class of 2029 marked the start of their four-year journeys together at the Freshman Orientation on Aug. 18. Pictured: upperclassman volunteers teaching Rockhurst cheers and chants to the newest Hawklets.

Rockhurst High School’s Class of 2029 was the biggest freshman class in over a decade, with 261 Hawklets. Students entered The Rock from 66 different zip codes across the metro and represented 68 different feeder schools. Many are new to the Rockhurst community, while over 100 of them are the son and/or younger brother of a Hawklet.

As has become part of the freshman experience in recent years, all Hawklets embark on four Freshman Days For Others (FDFO) throughout the school year – two in each semester. The students head to one of a dozen local organizations to assist with cleaning, organizing, and other labor-intensive projects, as the school works to immediately implement the lifelong mission of selfless service to its newest group of young men.

The group was welcomed to The Rock for Freshman Orientation on Aug. 18 for their first day on campus. It began with a Mass for all freshmen and their parents. Upperclassman volunteers served as greeters and guides as the new Hawklets met their Guidance Counselors, learned more about each of their classes, received IT and MacBook help, completed a scavenger hunt, and heard about some of Rockhurst’s deep history and traditions. The following day, while the upperclassmen had their own orientations, the Class of 2029 set out to serve the community.

Following their orientation, all freshmen completed their first of four Freshman Days For Others throughout the school year, serving at one of 12 local organizations. Pictured: students working hard to clear out nearly 500 illegally dumped tires on the Blue River Trail.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Rockhurst’s Directors of Admissions & Marketing, Steve Redmond ’04 and Beth Van Dyke, debuted a new Rockhurst podcast: Rock Talk. The show explores the voices, values, and vibrant life of Rockhurst’s Jesuit, college prep community. Hosted by Redmond and Van Dyke, each episode features conversations with students, faculty, alumni, and special guests to share stories of academic excellence, faith formation, brotherhood, and service. Pictured: Redmond and Van Dyke in the Rock Talk studio, connected to the Admissions Office.

Eleven new faculty and staff members joined – or rejoined – Rockhurst to begin the 2025-26 year. Pictured: (front row) Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J. (Principal), Sandra McHenry (Controller and Director of Financial Aid); (second row) Greta Sonnenberg (Assistant Choral Director), Andra Bessenbacher (Theology teacher), Doug Bruce ’67 (Mathematics teacher); (third row) Martin Radosevic, Jr. ’16 (Director of Community Engagement), Mary Catherine Newman (School Counselor), Mark Blanck ’98 (VP of Philanthropy & Engagement); (back row) Jason Britsch, S.J. (Theology teacher), Steve Redmond ’04 (Director of Admissions & Marketing), Capt. Jim Swoboda (Director of Security).

The Most Reverend Bishop James Johnston, Jr. of the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph celebrated the Mass of the Holy Spirit on Aug. 27, the first all-school Mass of the year. Pictured: Bishop Johnston offering a blessing to the Rockhurst community.

Fola Okediji, Rockhurst’s Director of College Counseling, was appointed to the National Catholic College Admission Association (National CCAA) Board of Directors. Only two of the 14 board members represent the high school side of college counseling; all others are senior-level admissions deans, vice presidents, and directors. The 2025-26 school year was Okediji’s 19th in Rockhurst’s College Counseling Office.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

SEPTEMBER 2025 Alumni Honored with Annual Awards

Rockhurst High School’s 2025 Alumni Award winners were formally announced at Homecoming Mass on Sept. 23. Pictured: (L-R) Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J.(Principal), Meredith Suarez (Director of Alumni Engagement), Emmet Pierson, Jr. ’84 (2025 Alumnus of the Year), Daniel Neugent ’22 (2025 Emerging Hawklet), and David Laughlin (President).

Rockhurst High School recognized two former Hawklets with the annual Alumni Awards. Emmet Pierson, Jr. ’84 was selected as the 2025 Alumnus of the Year. Given to a worthy alumnus each year since 2002, the award is named for the Very Rev. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., who was the Superior General of the Society of Jesus from 1965 to 1983 and coined the phrase “men for others.”

Pierson has served as the President and CEO of Community Builders of Kansas City (CBKC), the city’s largest urban core developer, since 2019. He consistently returns to Rockhurst’s campus to speak with students on topics ranging from professional development to Black History Month. He is the Chair of the Black Community Fund at Rockhurst, which was established nearly a decade ago. The group, spearheaded by Pierson, sponsors four Hawklets each year and helps these young men and their families receive a Rockhurst education.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Daniel Neugent ’22 was selected as the 2025 Emerging Hawklet. Founded in 2023, this award recognizes the outstanding achievements of a young alumnus who has created meaningful impact through exceptional leadership, service to others, or a commitment to excellence. Despite still being a college student, Neugent donated significant time, treasure, and talents to several companies and nonprofits since graduating from The Rock. He led software development for charitable organizations including Step Forward and Kanbe’s Markets.

He also volunteers as a technical mentor for Rockhurst’s Software Engineering - Cybersecurity Club and served as an in-person group mentor for team members who competed in a 36-hour coding marathon at KU. Pierson and Neugent were celebrated throughout the fall, beginning with Homecoming Mass on Sept. 23, then during the football tailgate at Alumni Reunion Week on Sept. 26, and at the All Alumni Night on Nov. 6

Two Hawklets broke school records in their respective sports. A top sophomore in the country, Jack McGovern ’28 ran 14:44.70 to break the school’s 5K record by eight seconds. He clocked the fastest 5K ever by a Missouri runner on a Missouri course and became the fourth fastest runner in state history, as well as the individual State Champ. Pictured: McGovern winning the Staley Invitational race on Sept. 6; photo courtesy of Nick Johnson ’03. Asende Welongo ’26 broke the Rock Soccer record for career points and career goals. By the end of his fourth and final season Welongo had scored 99 goals and 228 points. The previous records were 64 and 174, respectively. Pictured: Welongo launching one of his record-setting 99 goals during the 2025 season.

Rockhurst celebrated both its Alumni Reunion Week and Homecoming Week in September. The school community welcomed back hundreds of alumni for various events on and off campus. Pictured: current students greeting former Hawklets, including John Oades ’67 as they entered the Dining Commons for an alumni luncheon on Sept. 24.

Sixteen seniors earned recognition from the National Merit Scholarship Program. Seven were National Merit Semifinalists and nine were National Merit Commended Students. Pictured: the seven Semifinalist who also each became Finalists; (front row) Shiv Patel ’26, Tom Fimmen ’26, Landon Christopher ’26; (back row) Nolan Fellows ’26, Andrew Hayes ’26, Daniel Colombo ’26, and Cooper Clifft ’26.

Coach Mike Sullivan ’84 was named the 2025 MSHSAA/NFHS Coach of the Year for Boys Volleyball. He led the Hawklets to the program’s first Final Four in the spring of 2025 and the team won the first-ever volleyball banner with a 3rd Place finish at State after going 23-5 on the season. Pictured: Coach Sully was surprised with the award during the all-school pep rally on Sept. 26.

OCTOBER 2025

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

Freshman Class “Anchored in Rock”

All members of the Class of 2029 attended the Freshman Retreat on Oct. 3, a foundational experience for the class during its first months as Rockhurst students. Pictured: Principal Fr. Steven Kramer, S.J., led Mass in the Rose Theater. Pictured: alumni gathered in the Sacred Heart Chapel before meeting with Freshman Retreat groups for alumni talks.

Rockhurst’s Class of 2029 participated in its Freshman Retreat on Oct. 3 with the theme: Anchored in Rock.

The retreat is planned, organized, and executed by more than 150 upperclassmen and faculty/staff volunteers.

With activities ranging from Mass to games to individual and group reflections to “Freshman Feud” to alumni talks, the Freshman Retreat is an opportunity for individual growth and class bonding for the newest Hawklets.

In addition, more than 35 alumni spanning six decades volunteered to participate in alumni talks, sharing their own experiences from their time at The Rock and encouraging their Hawklet brothers to make the most of their four years at the school.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

The 4th Day Retreat for the senior class took place on Oct. 15. This was the third year of the retreat at Rockhurst. All members of the Class of 2026 reconnected in their Kairos groups from junior year while reflecting on growth and gratitude, and also heard perspectives from alumni. Pictured: Ben McAnany ’08 and Andrew Miller ’16 spoke with seniors about their experiences from life after Rockhurst and how they still carry the ideals from Kairos with them today.

The Speech & Debate Team traveled to St. Louis for the 18th iteration of the Washington University Model United Nations Symposium (WUMUNS). The Hawklets won the Outstanding Large Delegation Award and had an impressive 10 students receive individual awards. Among those were Best Delegates honorees: Connor Clune ’26, Andrew Hayes ’26, Timmy Ottomanelli ’27, and David Colombo ’29. Pictured: team members proudly displaying their WUMUNS awards.

Conner Vickers ’26 planned and organized the “Chippin’ for the Garden” Golf Tournament at Oakwood Country Club on Oct. 9. With the help of his Rock Golf teammates, Vickers raised $17,000 through the event to support Pete’s Garden, a local nonprofit that aims to reduce food waste in KC by recovering surplus food and converting it into free, healthy, take-home meals for families in need. Pictured: Golf Hawklets stepped up to help Vickers run his charity tournament.

Ten students in Computer Science courses across the sophomore, junior, and senior classes traveled to Minneapolis for an educational field trip. Visits and tours included the General Mills World Headquarters, University of Minnesota campus, Minnesota United FC Stadium, and the University of St. Thomas campus. The group also spent time volunteering at Bridging, a nonprofit that provides donated furniture and household goods to families and individuals transitioning to housing stability. Pictured: the group touring the General Mills World Headquarters.

NOVEMBER 2025

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

Harvest Food Drive Shatters Canned Goods Record

Rockhurst students donated over 50,000 lbs. of canned goods during the 2025 Harvest Food Drive, beating the previous record by 10,000 lbs. Pictured: Students loaded up a Catholic Charities van with boxes and bags of food; Catholic Charities was one of eight local food pantries that received donations from Rockhurst.

In 2024, Rockhurst students set a new Harvest Food Drive record by donating over 40,000 lbs of canned goods. Thanks to an incredible push on Friday, Nov. 14, the final day of this year’s Harvest Food Drive, a new mark was reached. Hawklets donated 30,000 in that one day – bringing the week’s total to a remarkable 50,000 lbs. The seniors in the Class of 2026 led the way, accounting for nearly half of the total. On average, each senior donated 122 lbs. of food.

The recipient agencies that benefited from the students’ generosity included Bishop Sullivan Center, Catholic Charities, Christ The King Parish, Redemptorist Social Services, St. Elizabeth Parish, St. Francis Xavier Parish, St. Therese Little Flower Parish, and Seton Center. The Harvest Food Drive has been a studentled effort at Rockhurst for more than 25 years, and record-breaking donations means more people and families helped in our communities.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

A group of 11 Hawklets had the opportunity to participate in the Architecture, Construction and Engineering (ACE) Trade Center Fair at Google’s new Data Center, hosted by JE Dunn Construction on Nov. 6. The students learned about careers in the field, safety protocols, job site prefabrication, client-based relations, and pathways to careers in everything from architecture to pipe fitting. Pictured: Rockhurst students met with a JE Dunn employee to learn about the inner workings of construction.

The Future Docklets of America (Rockhurst’s Pre-Med Club) enjoyed a field trip to the University of Central Missouri for the college’s STEM Day. The Docklets were able to see a virtual heart beating with the corresponding ECG tracing, use infant and toddler life-like animate mannequins for studying CPR and its effects, and ride in a rover that students built. Pictured: Students observed a virtual heart beating.

Aaden Lutman ’27 was the State Champion in the 200 IM, helping lead the AquaHawks to a State Runner-Up finish. He also placed 2nd in the 100 Breast and was on two relay teams that both earned top-three finishes. He accounted for 103 points and earned AllState honors in all four events. Pictured: Lutman celebrating his State Title in the 200 IM.

Representatives from Rockhurst attended the Greater Kansas City Hispanic Development Fund’s 2025 Cambio Para Cambio closing celebration for Hispanic Heritage Month. During the month, Rockhurst raised $5,000 for scholarships, which was matched dollar for dollar. Pictured: Rockhurst students with Marvin Grilliot, Rockhurst teacher, at the closing celebration on Nov. 6.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

DECEMBER 2025 New Transportation Program Assists Rock Families

Eight Rockhurst students were picked up at the Northland Hy-Vee for the inaugural pick-up of Rockhurst’s van program on Dec. 8, 2025. The same van picked up two more Hawklets at Linwood Church in Midtown before arriving at the school by 7:45 a.m.

December 8 marked an important milestone in the history of Rockhurst High School – especially related to its mission of being an accessible school for all young men in the KC metro area, an emphasis coming out of the school’s strategic planning. It was the first morning of Rockhurst’s van pick-up program. The pilot locations were in the Northland (NW 64th St. Hy-Vee) and Midtown (Linwood Church). A week later, Lee’s Summit (NE Woods Chapel Road Price Chopper) had its own van route as well. The three locations continued serving 25 students and their families for the entirety of the spring semester, with the majority of the 28

students taking advantage of this new program every day. Through a partnership with Kansas City Transportation Group, which provides the professional drivers, the vans arrive at the community pick-up spots between 6:55 and 7:20 a.m. each morning and drop off the students at Rockhurst by 7:45. Looking ahead to the 2026-27 school year, Rockhurst will run five daily van routes throughout the city. Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J., Principal, will continue to survey current and incoming families on prospective spots that would be the most beneficial to Rockhurst students and parents.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

The Esports Rocket League Team finished 4th at the 2025 State Championship Tournament. This was Rockhurst’s first year in the Missouri Scholastic Esports Federation (MOSEF) and the Hawklets advanced to the Final Four among 46 schools representing all classes in Missouri. Pictured: The RHS Esports Rocket League Team, led by coaches (far left) Tyler Baker and (far right) Gabby Kelsch Bledsoe.

Langston Humphrey ‘26 was awarded the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship, valued up to $200,000. It can be used for either tuition or room and board at any of 170 universities around the country. Specifically, Humphrey was awarded the Immediate Scholarship Reservation (ISR) because of his high aptitude to serve in the military and a combination of his GPA, ACT scores, community involvement, school co-curricular activities, and completion of the Navy’s Fitness assessment. Last year, there were 4,500 applicants and only 125 were awarded the ISR. Pictured: Humphrey was surprised at school with the announcement of his scholarship.

Students in the Computer Hardware & Operating Systems class enjoyed a field trip to PCs For People. The local nonprofit provides affordable computers and internet to lowincome individuals and charities, as well as secure e-waste recycling services to businesses. The Hawklets helped organize, test, and disassemble donated devices, and also helped package devices to ship out to purchasers. Pictured: Owen DeConink ’26 and Max Ramirez ’26 organized electronic donations at PCs For People.

The Rockhurst Choral Program had the opportunity to perform its Christmas Concert at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Under the direction of Dr. Kevin Coker, Rockhurst has four choirs (Freshman, Advanced, Chamber, Concert) that includes over 200 students, making it Rockhurst’s largest co-curricular activity. Pictured: Rockhurst Choirs performing together at the Kauffman Center on Dec. 10.

JANUARY 2026

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

Senior Service Projects Remain Pivotal to Rockhurst Experience The annual Senior Service Projects took place over Jan. 5-23, 2026. All 199 members of the Class of 2026 spent the first three weeks of their final semester in service to others. The majority of seniors (152) selected one of 37 Kansas City organizations to serve. The remaining 47 seniors, across two groups, plus 13 faculty/staff chaperones traveled to San Andrés Itzapa, Guatemala helping improve living conditions for families in the area. During one of the trips, Abuelito Carlos (Carlito), a 93-year-old man who had lived with the nuns at the Carmelite Sisters convent, passed away peacefully. Rockhurst seniors volunteered to serve as the pallbearers for Carlito’s funeral.

George Meysenburg ’26 completed his Senior Service Project at Operation Breakthrough.

Senior Service Projects have been a tradition at Rockhurst for more than 50 years.

While in Guatemala, David Prier ’26, Henry Coppinger ’26, Gabriel Rojas Bautista ’26, and Hudson Malfer ’26 stepped up to serve as pallbearers for a 93-year-old man who passed away.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Three juniors attended the Discernment Retreat hosted by the UCS Province Jesuits at the Strake Jesuit Retreat and Leadership Center, located between Houston and Dallas, in January 2026. Peyton Cunningham ’27, Cole Cress ’27, and Tyson Nguyen ’27 were among 47 students from 12 Jesuit high schools who took the time to reflect more intentionally on vocation and service to the Church. Pictured: Jason Britsch, S.J., Rockhurst teacher and Jesuit regent, accompanied Cunningham, Cress, and Nguyen on the retreat.

Representatives from the Rockhurst Theatre Department attended the Missouri Thespian Conference in St. Louis. The group participated in theatre workshops, attended shows, and interacted with other theatre students around the state. Pictured: Landon Hochstein ’26, Liam Griffiths ’26, Jack Bosco ’27, Sam Robinson ’27, Harrison Seaton ’28, and Rocco Mandacina ’29 gathered at the Stiefel Theatre in St. Louis.

Following the kick-off event in Boston in July, the second full-group gathering of all AMDG Program participants was for a silent retreat in Grand Coteau, LA. Pictured: Rockhurst’s retreatants acknowledging the silent aspect of the four-day experience.

Eight members of the Speech & Debate Team were invited to participate in The Great Debate – The National Civics and Debate Championship (NCDC) in Orlando, FL. Nearly 600 students competed from 15 states. Andrew Hayes ‘26 was recognized as the 4th Best Overall Competitor and Timmy Ottomanelli ‘27 was the 6th Best Overall Competitor. Five Hawklets also earned top20 finishes in events, and Coach Phil Helt ‘07 was one of three coaches to receive the Inspiring Coach Award. Pictured: Rock’s Speech & Debate Team showed off their hardware won at The Great Debate competition.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT REPORT 2025-26 2025-26 PRESIDENT’S

“Rockhurst has pushed me to grow not just as a student, but as a person through its brotherhood, high standards, and the people who genuinely care about my success. It’s a place I’ll miss because it truly feels like a community that wants you to succeed long after you leave.” -Max Ramirez ’26 Metropolitan Community College - Kansas City

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

“The past four years went by fast, but they will be some of my greatest memories. I will miss the simple moments with classmates, teammates, and friends. Nothing compares to the brotherhood at Rockhurst.” -George Meysenburg ’26 University of Missouri-Columbia

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

FEBRUARY 2026 Mission Week Aids Student-Selected Organizations Rockhurst’s Student Government Association (SGA) once again led fundraising efforts for the school’s annual Mission Week. Hawklets raised nearly $23,000 to support class-selected charities: St. Peter Claver Parish in Belize, Loyola Secondary School in South Sudan, Mahpiya Luta (Red Cloud Indian School) in South Dakota, and Carmelite Sisters of the Holy Family in Guatemala. The roots of Mission Week at Rockhurst date back to the early-1970s, and is widely considered the most fun week of the school year – while also raising important funds for meaningful organizations to each class.

At the all-school assembly to kick off Mission Week 2026, Matt Monroe ’27 spoke on behalf of the junior class as to why it selected Mahpiya Luta (Red Club Indian School) as the recipient of the juniors’ generosity throughout Mission Week.

The school watched as the junior and senior representatives competed in Spike Ball during the Mission Week Board Game. Pierce Fisher ’26 made a shot as his teammate (right) Liam Conway ’26 looked on; opponents (left) Teddy Houlehan ’27 and Max Buerge ’27 were ready to play defense.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Rockhurst’s Mock Trial Team won both District and Regional Championships before finishing 11th at the State Championship in St. Louis. The Mocklets defeated St. Teresa’s Academy and Park Hill South in Districts, and then beat Lincoln College Prep in Regionals. The team combined to go 7-0 on ballots across the three wins and advanced to State for the sixth straight season. Pictured: the Mocklets after winning the Regional competition.

Ten senior student-athletes signed to their future colleges and universities on National Signing Day on Feb. 4, 2026. The school hosted a second signing day ceremony on May 5, during which 10 more Class of 2026 Hawklets signed to their schools. Pictured: Jake Bond ’26 (Creighton Track & Field), Josh Battison ’26 (Bucknell Swim & Dive), Xavier Ritchie ’26 (Missouri S&T Baseball), Reilly Eagan ’26 (Queens University of Charlotte Swim & Dive), Henry Coppinger ’26 (Butler Football), Trip Kratofil ’26 (Washington and Lee Baseball), George Besch ’26 (Babson Golf), Pierce Fisher ’26 (Drake Football), Charlie Bernstein ’26 (Wash U Baseball), and Kevin Sullivan ’26 (Kansas Football).

Five members of the Math Club represented Rockhurst at the Missouri Council of Teachers of Mathematics (MCTM) Competition held at Northwest Missouri State University. Sudipto Bhowmik ’27 was the Champion of the Target Round, which included 200 student competitors. Pictured: Math Club team members: John Kierspel ’27, Dipanto Bhowmik ’28, Sudipto Bhowmik ’27, Cole Cress ’27, and Declan Griggs ’27.

The Future Docklets of America (Pre-Med Club) organized and hosted the first-ever KC Catholic High Schools Healthcare Career Pathways Fair. There were 190 attendees and 34 exhibitors representing universities, healthcare professionals, and regional hospital systems. Students attended from eight area Catholic high schools: Bishop Miege, Cristo Rey KC, Notre Dame de Sion, Rockhurst, St. James Academy, St. Michael the Archangel, St. Teresa’s Academy, and St. Thomas Aquinas. Pictured: Jacob Carpenter ’27 and David Carpenter ’28 spoke with a representative from KU’s School of Medicine.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

MARCH 2026

AMDG Retreat Culminates with Camino Ignacio The third and final phase of the AMDG Program took Rockhurst’s 10 participants, plus three faculty/staff chaperones, nearly 5,000 from home. The group flew to Spain over spring break for the conclusion of the program, the Camino Ignacio pilgrimage. This 400-mile trek begins at the birthplace of St. Ignatius of Loyola (Azpeitia) and ends in Manresa, where he began to write the Spiritual Exercises. Rockhurst’s cohort would do an abbreviated version of the journey, walking over 100 miles. The group traversed 10-15 miles per day, and then traveled by bus to that night’s rest city. Each day included Mass, prayer, and reflection. One participant noted it as “the coolest week of my life… and brought my relationship with God and my faith to an all-time high.” Between each of the memorable travel experiences (kick-off in Boston, silent retreat in Grand Coteau, LA, and Camino Ignacio in Spain), the group completed at-least-monthly service projects, cohort meetings, personal prayer, and reflection as part of the year-long program. Rockhurst’s second cohort was soon selected. Nearly 40 rising juniors and seniors were nominated, and following a demanding application, teacher recommendation, and interview process, a committee of six faculty/staff members selected the 15 Hawklets (five seniors and 10 juniors) who will take part in the second year of the AMDG Program.

The AMDG Program culminated in the Camino Ignacio pilgrimage in Spain. Rockhurst’s group walked over 100 miles of the route from Azpeitia to Manresa.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Eight seniors were announced as Hispanic Development Fund (HDF) of Kansas City scholarship recipients. They were among the 323 high school seniors across KC who earned scholarships. Pictured: (L) John Kearney, HDFKC Executive Director, and (R) Marvin Grilliot, Rockhurst teacher, announced the scholarship recipients in Rockhurst’s Class of 2026 – Adan Caro, Anthony Navarro, Rex Olivas, Selvin Braddock, Gio Luna, Miguel Martinez, and Xavier Aleman. Not pictured: Gabriel Rojas Bautista

Scholar Bowl won the March Academic Invitational in Nevada (MAIN) hosted by Nevada High School, and then finished 2nd at Mexico High School’s Bulldog Regional Interscholastic Challenge (BRIC). Pictured: Thomas Carroll ’29, Shiv Patel ’26, Jeremy Smith ’26, and Ben Olschki ’27 went 8-0 to sweep the Championship bracket of the MAIN.

On March 19, Rockhurst Basketball welcomed back more than 20 former players who played on past Final Four teams. Alumni ranging from the great Classes of 1970 through 2015 came to practice before the 2026 team headed to Columbia for the Final Four. This year’s team was the 13th Rock Basketball squad to advance to the Final Four, and the first since 2013. Pictured: Former Basketball Hawklets shared memories and encouraging messages with the 2026 team prior to the Final Four; Rockhurst went on to finish 3rd at State.

Thirty-six members of the Choir Program enjoyed a memorable trip to Italy over spring break. The group visited Venice, Pisa, Florence, Assisi, and Rome during the nine-day trip and had the unique opportunity to perform at Masses in famous basilicas and chapels, including the Duomo in Florence and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Other recent Choir Program highlights included performing its Christmas Concert at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and singing the National Anthem before the Royals game on April 22. Pictured: The Rockhurst group at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City.

APRIL 2026

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

The 2026 Spectacular Co-Chair couples set another Rockhurst auction fundraising record, nearly hitting the $1.80 million mark for the school’s tuition assistance program. (L-R) Colleen & Bill Teasdale ’93, Julie Walker Browne & Pete Browne ’85, Susie Caisley & Chuck Caisley (not pictured), Kristin & Greg Kratofil ’92, and Shannon & Jim Ortbals.

Spectacular Auction Results in Record Night For the fourth year in-a-row, the Rockhurst Spectacular Auction set a new fundraising record in support of the young men of The Rock and their families.

(all Legacy Co-Chairs) and Shannon & Jim Ortbals and Colleen & Bill Teasdale ’93.

These funds directly benefit the 40% of all students who rely on tuition assistance In total, Spectacular brought to make their Rockhurst in $1.77 million. experience possible. Please take the time to scan the QR “Raising The Rock” was code to watch the 2026 Fund spearheaded by the 2026 coA Future video, produced by chair couples: Julie Walker current parent Andy Will of Browne & Pete Browne ’85, GB3 Productions, to see your Susie & Chuck Caisley, and giving in action. Kristin & Greg Kratofil ’92

Scan the QR code to watch a Fund A Future video produced by current parent Andy Will to see your giving in action, supporting current and future Hawklets.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

The Rockhurst Theatre Department earned five Starlight Blue Star Award Nominations for its production of Newsies. Charlie Tietjen ‘28 was nominated for Ceremony Ensemble, Creative Contribution Award (Direction), and the Sophomore Rising Star Scholarship. George Nessinger ‘28 was also nominated for Ceremony Ensemble. The entire cast was nominated for Outstanding Ensemble. Pictured: The Newsies cast and crew celebrated receiving five Blue Star Award Nominations.

Students in Computer Science & Engineering classes spanning all four grade levels had the opportunity to tour a data center project being constructed by JE Dunn. On April 21, the group of 21 Hawklets was hosted by JE Dunn employees Kevin Sears ’03 and Kyle Rieger ’12. Pictured: Current and former Hawklets put on their proper safety gear before beginning the site tour.

The Speech & Debate Team had a great showing at the District Tournament. Rockhurst placed 3rd in Debate Sweepstakes and qualified 10 students to the MSHSAA State Speech & Debate Championship. Pictured: At the State Tournament, Langston Humphrey ’26 was the State Runner-Up in Prose Reading and Andrew Hayes ’26 was a Quarterfinalist in LincolnDouglas Debate.

Staff members of Rockhurst’s student newspaper, Prep News Online, earned State and national recognition. Seven individuals received Missouri honors: one Honorable Mention, two Excellent, three Superior, and one All-Missouri. The staff also earned Superior honors for Online Overall. Jake Bond ’26 and Jack Grisolano ’27 were selected as Finalists for national writing contests. Pictured: Fr. Carlos Esparza, S.J., and Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J., were the subjects of a news photo from Logan Filing ’27 that was chosen for an All-Missouri Award, given to the top 10% of entries in a category.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

MAY 2026

The great Class of 2026 joined together to sing the Alma Mater one last time before graduating from Rockhurst students to alumni.

Graduation 2026 On Sunday, May 17, 2026 there were 196 members of the great Class of 2026 that earned that opportunity to walk across the stage – an honor created by four years of dedication and commitment to excellence. An honor earned by just over 16,000 men since the first graduating class from Rockhurst High School in 1917. The Class of 2026 was the school’s 110th graduating class. This year’s ceremonial walk included receiving a diploma from Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J., principal, and David Laughlin, president; congratulatory handshakes from Amy Holewinski, Chair of the Board of Trustees, and Spencer Hardwick ’07, President of the National Alumni Association; and an alumni pin from Meredith Suarez, Director of Alumni Engagement.

Scan to watch the commencement speech from Brendan Ortbals ’26.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

The Track & Field Hawklets won a second consecutive State Championship. Despite being projected to finish outside of the top-four as a team, the Hawklets outperformed almost every one of their seedings as eight of Rock’s 10 qualified events placed in the topfour. Jack Meyer ’26 was the State Champ in long jump and State Runner-Up in high jump, while Jack McGovern ’28 was the State Runner-Up in both the 1600m and 3200m. Pictured: Rockhurst Track & Field celebrating a historic State Championship performance; photo courtesy of Nick Johnson ’03.

All students in Honors French 3 participated in the Grand Concours (the National French Contest) given by the American Association of Teachers of French. Each of Madame Stacy Lukas’ students placed, earning Mérite or Mention Honorable recognition – and four students were awarded medals as National Laureates. Pictured: (L-R) Bronze: James Bland ‘29, Rémy Des Marteau ‘29; Gold: Isaac Sessler ‘29; Silver: Stewart Wilson ‘29

Draden Torline ‘26 became the first Rockhurst Lacrosse goalkeeper ever to be named a USA Lacrosse All-American twice. As a junior, Torline broke both the LAKC and Rockhurst program records for save percentage, stopping 66.7% of shots faced. In 2025 he allowed just 4.8 goals per game, and helped lead the Hawklets to the LAKC championship game with a league record of 11-1 while allowing just over two goals per game and stopping nearly 70% of shots. In Torline’s three seasons as the starter, Rockhurst went 41-9 overall and 32-2 in LAKC play. Pictured: Torline stopped another shot in a 23-0 win over Bishop Miege.

Rockhurst’s Choir Program hosted its annual Hawklet Showcase in the Rose Theater over May 5-6. It is a student-led event (from song selections to auditions to showtime and the emceeing) that ran two nights this year based on the popularity of last year’s one-night-only show. It included performances from all four choral groups and 22 musical soloists with tailored accompaniment by a professional live band. Pictured: one of the evening’s group performances.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2025-26

JUNE 2026

Current and former Hurtado Scholars and program directors gathered for a photo during the annual celebration on June 2.

Hurtado Scholars Program Sustains Success More than 200 Hurtado Scholars Program supporters joined together on June 2 at Boulevard Brewery to celebrate the program’s continued success at the annual summer celebration. Since its inception in 2012, the Hurtado Scholars Program has served 157 young men and their families. There are currently 37 boys in the Middle School Program

(grades 6-8) and 38 Hurtado graduates who will be Rockhurst students in the 2026-27 academic year, across all four grade levels. The most recent class of 10 Hurtado Program graduates will all be Hawklets this fall as members of the Class of 2030. The group is one of the strongest academically of all Hurtado classes to enter Rockhurst in the program’s history.

Ellen & Kerm Fendler were honored with The Fire That Kindles Other Fires Award for their decade-plus of Hurtado Scholars Program support since it went from an idea to a miracle in action. Pictured: Ellen & Kerm Fendler at the annual Hurtado Celebration on June 2.

ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL

Twelve Rockhurst students led by two faculty/staff chaperones headed on a summer trip to France on June 1. Stops on the nearly-two-week trip included Paris, Versailles, Bordeaux, San Sebastián, Biarritz, the French Riviera, and a day trip to Monaco. Pictured: the group touring the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles.

Jack Meyer ’26 and Jack McGovern ’28 were selected to compete in the 2026 Nike Outdoor Nationals in Eugene, OR, and both earned All-American honors. Meyer placed 7th in long jump (23-10) to finish his outstanding high school career as a 1st Team All-American. McGovern finished 9th in the 3200m (8:49.30) and 13th in the 1 Mile (4:09.42) to earn 2nd Team honors in both events.

Rockhurst’s 13 varsity teams combined for an outstanding 2025-26 year, highlighted by six District Championships and nine top-four finishes at State – including a State Title in track & field. Most importantly, the teams maintained an average GPA of 3.67 with 91 Academic All-State honorees.

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