Communiqué - Spring 2023

COMMUNIQUÉ

THE MAGAZINE OF ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL SPRING 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

5 A One-of-a-Kind Community: Stephanie Alves ’23 Reflects on Her Decision to Attend St. Joes

6 Feeding Those in Need: First Annual Stuff-a-Bus Exceeds All Expectations

8 Virtual Reality: Learning New Languages by “Traveling” Beyond The Classroom

10 Faculty Spotlight: A Celebration of Patrick Pardee as He Nears 50 Years as an SJ Faculty Member

12 Growing Exponentially: SJ’s Wrestling Team Expands From Four to Thirty-Three in Just One Year

16 Innovating Health & Wellness: Announcing a New Partnership with KMK Training

20 Parent Spotlight: Brian Russell P ’10, ’12, ’16 Shines His Lens on Screenwriting with SJ Alumni by His Side

24 Alumni Spotlight: Maureen Bosetti ’89 Shares Her Journey From St. Joes to C.I.O. at Iniative Media

26 Community Connections: Fall Advancement Events

28

ADMINISTRATION & STAFF

President

David J. Klein

Principal

Nancy DiBuono

Assistant Principal, Curriculum & Instruction

Brian Gavin ’13

Director of Athletics

Kevin Butler P ’25

Chief Financial Officer

Linda Batten P ’10, ’13

Security & Facilities Director

Joseph Dzurenda ’80

P ’15, ’17, ’20

Chaplain Father Eric Silva ’08

Dean of Student Life

Matthew Kavulich

Director of Marketing & Enrollment Management

Jessica Costa

Associate Director, Marketing & Communications

Maria Martinez P ’25, ’27

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

St. Joseph High School is an independent Catholic college preparatory community that educates and motivates young women and men to live purposeful lives as ethical leaders committed to the common good of all.

Dear Friends,

Greetings from St. Joseph High School. I am delighted to report that here on Huntington Turnpike our campus is blooming, both with new spring flowers and an energized focus and earnest commitment to daily continuous improvement. Our Cadets are thriving in their studies, after school extra-curricular activities, on the athletic fields, and in their service to our local community.

SJ staff and faculty have been collaborating across all academic departments to curate new academic opportunities for the year to come. The strategic expansion of our curricular options is aligned with an unprecedented level of scheduling flexibility allowing students to earn graduation credit(s) during accelerated summer courses. Cyber security, drone technology, and sports management are just a few new options Cadets have to explore their academic interests and pursue their future career paths with passionate confidence.

A tremendous sense of community and belonging amongst our students is evident in their enthusiastic engagement in and out of the classroom. Whether it be committed athletic participation as a team member or loyal fan; Pizza & Prayer; multicultural week potlucks; a snowy trip to Quebec, or SJ school buses overflowing with donated food headed for local shelters and soup kitchens – SJHS continues to foster friendships and create beautiful memories to last a lifetime. We encourage our students to strive to become well-rounded individuals who are prepared to make a positive contribution to society. They inspire us and make us proud every day.

As we look forward to the new opportunities of this invigorating Spring season, we remain committed to providing a nurturing and challenging learning environment for our students. We know achieving this goal is only possible because of you - our supportive alumni, friends, parents and guardians. Your active partnership makes an extraordinary difference in helping us to provide an exceptional co-ed Catholic learning environment for our students. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement.

In Faith & Fellowship,

Board Members

St. Joseph High School is a selfgoverning institution within the Diocese of Bridgeport.

CHAIRPERSON

Christopher Wilson P ’08, ’10, ’14 Stonehill Capital Management, LLC

Dr. Steven Cheeseman P ’23 Superintendent of Schools, ex officio Diocese of Bridgeport

Patrick Donegan ’83 P ’11, ’11, ’14, ’17, ’24 The Riverside Company

John Fahey P ’20, ’22, ’25, ’27 United Rentals, Inc.

John Gschwind P ’14 Rexel USA

Andrea Maldon ’89 P ’19 Lone Pine Capital, retired

Kenneth Martin ’95 P ’21, ’23, ’24 Co-Owner, Colony Grill

Deacon Patrick Toole P ’14 Episcopal Delegate for Administration, Diocese of Bridgeport

James Woods P ’96, ’98, ’00 Venman & Co. LLC

David J. Klein

David J. Klein President

President, ex officio

A ONE-OF-A-KIND COMMUNITY

Stephanie Alves ’23 Reflects on her Decision to Attend St. Joes and Fondly Remembers the Moment she Stepped Foot on Campus at Just 11 years old.

I first visited St. Joes in the fall of 2016…when I was in 6th grade. While I was only there to attend Fall Open House with my older sister, my experience was one that would stick with me, even now as I prepare to graduate this June. It was sunny and slightly brisk as we walked into the gym, all sitting together on the gym floor to listen to a few speakers before we headed out on tour. As we were touring the academic wing, the Student Ambassador leading my group asked all the prospective students their names before turning to me. I was shocked. I told them I was just here with my sister, but they still wanted to know my name. Throughout the entire event, I was asked again and again who I was and what my high school goals were. I remember being told by the faculty that they looked forward to seeing me again at future events and having me in their class.

As we drove home, I remember looking at my sister and remarking, “Did you feel that?” and she replied, “I did. You did too?” It was an immediate feeling of belonging and care that had washed over me, and I knew, even at such a young age, that it would be my goal to attend high school here. It was helpful that my sister chose St. Joes as well. I remember tagging along to events like Fine Arts Night and a Multicultural event in the cafeteria. She would come home and tell stories of classmates and teachers from her day, and I would listen intently at the dinner table. It was not long before I started to attend high school search events again, but this time for myself. I spent a visit day on campus, went to Open House, and finally was able to attend my very own Accepted Students Night.

I am often asked why I chose to attend St. Joes over the great public school in my town. Many assumed my decision was solely based on my sister’s decision. Others were puzzled with why I would “venture” off and stray from the comfortability of the friends I had gone to school with all my life. As an 8th grader, I did not know how to respond; but as a Senior, I can now say in full confidence that it has always been that sense of belonging, community, and most importantly, love. I feel so connected to the heartbeat of this school. My teachers never fail to push me academically and my friends never fail to make me laugh at lunch and in the halls. I would remark to my hometown friends how I often looked forward to being at school early and staying late into the evening, and sometimes even showing up on the weekends. This community has given me greater opportunities then I could have even imagined. From being a Student Ambassador at our admissions events, to service projects and National Honor Society, and even being a lead in the spring musical.

St. Joes is one of a kind. The family here is one of a kind. I have never felt such a connection with a place and the people who I have the privilege to see every time I walk through the doors. The memories I have made here, and the ones to come in these final few months will surely last a lifetime.

Feeding Those in Need ST. JOES COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO STOCK THE PANTRIES OF FOUR LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS.

It was a crisp, winter day on Saturday, February 25, as Deacon Jeffrey Font, Director of Campus Ministry, alongside parent and student volunteers searched for another spot to stuff a bag of groceries onto an SJ bus. The volunteers had been hard at work since 8am to fill as many of our busses as possible with nonperishable food for local pantries.

“It was so important to me that we host this Stuff-a-Bus event,” remarked Deacon Font, “especially after visiting the food pantries over the holidays.”

During St. Joe’s 2022 Season of Giving food drives, the school donated an entire busload of food to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission and the Thomas Merton Center.

“The Peer Ministers delivered the food,” continued Deacon Font, “and we were granted permission to go inside the pantries. What we learned is that during the holiday season, the pantries receive so much food, they’re filled to the brim. But what happens after the holidays? What happens by February when the food stops coming in but the need is just as great?”

Deacon Font posed this very question to the entire SJ student body at an all-school assembly.

As he stood in the middle of the gymnasium, he shared a few staggering statistics with our Cadets: nearly 35,000 children in Fairfield County go hungry each night; 13% of our homeless population is comprised of students younger than 18; and 9% of residents live below the poverty line, struggling to put food on the table every day.

The first annual “Still Hungry” Stuff-a-Bus event was inspired by this information. Designed as a school-wide service project, it would not only allow our students to fulfill service hours, but it would bring our community together in a way that has never been done before.

“Community service means being completely selfless,” remarked senior Cadet, Teagan Cavaliere. “To me, it means contributing time and effort in order to put the needs of others before my own. Being able to come together like this truly embodies the idea of putting God first, others second, and myself third.”

‘God First. Others Second. I Am Third.’ This is the new motto for SJ’s Campus Ministry department. It fits the bill perfectly with the Stuff-a-Bus initiative.

“These food pantries,” said

Deacon Font, “are vital to our local community. The Thomas Merton Center, The Bridgeport Rescue Mission, The Sterling House Community Center, and the Vincent de Paul Food Pantry help so many people each day, and they cannot do it alone.”

Deacon Font also found new ways to allow families and out-ofstate alumni to participate. Some parents hosted their own food drives at their places of work. Some alumni sponsored a “seat on the bus” by donating money to purchase groceries. St. Joes also partnered with middle schools in our area such as Holy Trinity Catholic Academy and St. Mark’s School. The middle schools held their own food drives and St. Joes brought the bus by for students to pack.

By 3pm on February 25, the St. Joes community had stuffed four 44-passenger busses, overhead storage included!

“It’s just amazing,” remarked Skyler Johansen ’23 as she volunteered alongside her father. “I don’t know that I’ve ever seen so many groceries in one place! And to know that all of this came from the St. Joes community is awesome. It makes me feel like I’m truly a part of something special - something bigger than myself.”

VIRTUAL REALITY TAKES US BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

1) How do you use Virtual Reality (VR) technology in your Mandarin classes?

VR is a tool to add dimension to my classes. VR headsets have seemingly no limit and I would attest that this is true educationally as well.

With or without a VR headset, I teach my students how to have meaningful conversations with someone that is a native Chinese speaker. But with the VR headset, students are essentially “leaving” the classroom and are fully immersed in a 360-degree location speaking with an avatar.

In addition, we’ve been able to “travel” to China using Google Maps, virtually visiting any

location at any given time. This technology helps me teach at a cultural level when we do class projects on the landscapes and provinces of China. VR headsets help my students not only learn about a specific place on the map, but actually create the feeling that they’ve physically been there.

In the near future, I will have my Mandarin 3 and 4 classes give each classmate a virtual tour through Disney’s Epcot Center. The tour will be conducted completely in Chinese. As one student virtually tours Epcot, the class will follow along via a projection onto our Smart TV. It is effective because everyone will have a chance to present and everyone will be involved simultaneously.

2) How do you feel the VR headsets have affected your students’ abilities to learn the language and culture?

Learning a new language is tough enough - that’s why it is so important to make it fun!

Mandarin is so multifaceted –culturally and grammatically –everything is composed differently when compared to English, and my students find that so fascinating. The VR headsets have been an asset in that they create an opportunity for natural language acquisition. It’s so new and fun that everyone wants to join in and the learning happens with ease.

Mr. Mitch DeLancy, Mandarin Teacher, Shares

How Virtual Reality is Changing the way his Students Learn to Speak Mandarin and “Travel” to China.

3) What is your favorite type of lesson or assignment using the headsets?

IMMERSE ME is the best software we currently use for language-learning through virtual reality. The program has many lessons that always seem to be a perfect match with the chapter that I’m teaching. Furthermore, my students get to speak with native Chinese speakers that are both male and female and this is always good for interpersonal and presentational language learning; giving students a chance to engage with the world and someone other than myself.

4) What other forms of technology do you use in the classroom?

While VR is currently at the forefront, my Mandarin classes often incorporate video projects as well. We have a private YouTube channel where videos are archived. The wonderful advantage for students that stick with Mandarin through the years is that as they become seniors, I can show them videos of things they learned when they were freshmen. The videos are fun to make and a great way to help them retain information.

5) In the future, what other ways could you envision St. Joes using the VR headsets?

Without a doubt, we can use them for any robotics classes or even art classes. For example, I recently stumbled upon an app that allows you to create sculptures virtually. Using the school’s new 3D printers, we could physically print out our virtual sculptures, which I think the students would love. The technology is either there already or it is currently being worked on. I’m sure that very soon, there will be an infinite number of educational apps to come.

LIFE OF THE PARDEE

An Iconic Staple at St. Joes, Patrick Pardee is Now in his 49th Year of Teaching Science to our SJ Cadets.

It’s the first day of school and Sophomore students who have yet to meet Mr. Pardee are filing nervously into his classroom for their Chemistry lesson. As he introduces himself and the items around his classroom, he explains to the students what a chemical fume hood is used for. He stands underneath the hood and jokingly asks, “What am I now?” The students stare nervously in silence.

“I’m a Pardee in the hood…. you get it?” The class erupts into laughter. The ice has been broken, the shoulders relax, and the room is ready to learn. Pat’s sense of humor and calm demeanor have been a staple at St. Joes for 49 of our 60 years in existence.

It was a twist of fate that brought Patrick Pardee to our SJ classrooms. After he graduated from the College of Holy Cross with a Bachelors in Chemistry, Pat had his sights set on medical school. The only caveat: he didn’t get in to the exceptionally competitive program. But rather than despair over this change of plans, Pat decided to switch gears and try his hand at teaching. He worked in a small high school at first –“so small that I had to teach every one of their science classes” – until a friend recommended St. Joes. “I actually ended up teaching the daughter of said friend, and I’m currently teaching his grandson!”

Though he began as an SJ

Chemistry teacher, Pat has also made an impact on our students by teaching Physics and Environmental Science. He also served as the Science Department Chair for 20 years.

“I really love teaching science to my students. I love helping students understand the course and really learn where the origins of all matter come from.”

When asked whether the classroom has changed since he’s begun teaching, Pat shakes his head.

“Chemistry is chemistry; the science hasn’t changed much.

The delivery, though, and how you teach the students is a bit different, of course!”

In addition to his classroom antics, Pat has spent much of his time at St. Joes as a coach – Head Softball Coach, as well as an Assistant Coach of both Girls Basketball and Girls Volleyball, coaching 55 total seasons of three sports.

“I just love sports. There’s something about leading a team – the strategy, the game play, the victory – that makes everything worthwhile.” In 2001, Pat led our softball team to their first FCIAC Championship, gracing our gymnasium with yet another banner. It’s still his favorite SJ memory. Up until 2022, Pat was also the winningest coach in SJ Softball with 238 wins, which was recently surpassed by Coach Babineau.

There is no understating the impact that Pat has had on our students after nearly half a century.

“I love when the students tell me that my course has changed the trajectory of their lives, or when alumni tell me that they’ve pursued careers in the sciences. Just last year, I had four students tell me that they were going to major in Environmental Science after taking my course. It makes me feel so proud and honored to be inspiring the next generation of scientists.”

As Pat turns the page to year 50 in September, he looks forward to the possibility of retirement and a life filled with sports and relaxation.

“But who knows? I’ll probably come back to teach as a substitute every now and then.”

We sure hope so.

It’s Pardee Time...

“Mr. Pardee was my Chemistry teacher along with my softball coach many, many years ago and still one of my favorite teachers!”

~ Jill Dallaire, former Cadet

“Mr. Pardee....where do I begin! If Mr. Pardee didn’t convince me to go to Debbie Chin’s Volleyball Camp the summer after my disastrous first year of volleyball, I would have never found the sport I grew to love and coach. Thanks Coach!”

~ Kory Marie Evasick ’92 (via Facebook)

“Mr. Pardee is one of the best science teachers I’ve ever had. I love his jokes and the way he makes Chemistry so easy to learn.”

~ Sebastian Martinez ’25

“I wasn’t always the best science student, until I took Chemistry with Mr. Pardee. I can still remember the first time I received an A in his class and how good it felt. Mr. Pardee not only made Chemistry fun and engaging - but, he made it make sense. Outside the classroom he was a well known coach - always supporting his players. I’m always so grateful to have attended St. Joes, knowing that I had teachers like Mr. Pardee.”

~ Sasha Davila Russell ’01

Captains: Michael Morales and John Brooks

Athletic Highlights - Growing Exponentially

IT TOOK ONLY ONE YEAR TO GROW THE WRESTLING TEAM FROM FOUR TO THIRTY-THREE!

On January 12, 2022, SJ marked another milestone in our athletic timeline - our first ever wrestling match at home. Thanks to a generous donation, SJ was able to purchase Maroon & Gold wrestling mats and add another sport to our list of 40+.

Wrestling has always been around SJ in some capacity. In 2019, it was simply a club with four boys and no mats on the home turf. That all changed in 2022, when SJ stepped up their game. Armed with our fantastic PE teacher, Mr. James Cook, who was selected to coach the team, a new athletic endeavor was borne. In February 2022, senior Cadets, Joey Sansone and Zach Brzoska both competed in the FCIAC Championship. Joey was the first-place winner for his weight class, while Zach stood on the podium in third place for his. We were earning accolades already.

Fast forward to the 2022-2023 season and we have even more to celebrate. In just one year, the wrestling team has grown 8-fold and includes 33 students - many of whom are underclassmen. We sat down with this year’s Captains: John Brooks ’23 and Michael Morales ’24 to hear why they believe the team has become so popular.

Mike: Even though the team last year was small, it was filled with

students who really who enjoyed the sport and became passionate about it. They inspired others to join on.

John: I think we’re also fortunate that most of our team are underclassmen, so they see Coach Cook a lot as their PE teacher. He encourages them to try out and learn more about the sport.

The team has now grown so large that SJ athletes sometimes have to vie against each other for a spot in the tournaments or meets. Wrestle-offs are common and mean a lot to each competitor.

John: I don’t think everyone realizes how physical wrestling is - even more so than football - the sport I play in the fall. You work every muscle in your body and it is hard. But it’s also rewarding. As a solo sport, you get to decide how well you do.

Mike: Even if you don’t get to wrestle, there is something amazing about cheering on your teammates during their matches. They can hear you pushing them on, and it’s awesome to see them hit that last move or get that pin and you know that they practiced so hard for that.

While the sport is intense, the team also makes sure to keep the student part of “student-athlete”

front and center.

John: As Captains, we try our best to keep the team in order. We encourage them to keep their grades up and we go to the Student Academic Center together. And for the younger students, we’re there to help them any way we can.

We asked the Captains about their favorite moments thus far:

John: Mine was at a Trumbull Quad Meet. I beat two competitors and those were my first Varsity wins.

Mike: Mine was actually my second win. I kept losing then winning and going back and forth. But in the end, I came back and won my match.

The Wrestling Team is coached by James Cook, Coach Sean Auten P ’25, and Coach Dimitri Thorton. Combined, the coaches have experience in Wrestling, Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, and Mixed Martial Arts; all of which they use to inspire our Cadets.

John: The determination you learn in wrestling can be applied to every part of your life. That’s why I love this sport.

Athletic Highlights

CELEBRATING OUR STUDENT ATHLETES

FOOTBALL FCIAC, CLASS L CHAMPIONS

For the third year in a row, our football team took home the FCIAC Trophy, defeating Trumbull High 20-17. Jack Killmartin ’23 was selected for the AllState Team.

NCAA BOUND

In January 2023, we were proud to honor 13 student athletes during the NCAA Signing Day / Commitment Ceremony. The full list of students, divisions, and the colleges they will be attending can be found online at sjcadets.org/news.

BOYS GOLF

This year’s team placed 3rd in the FCIAC Championship and 2nd at the CIAC Division II Fall Golf Championship.

BOYS SOCCER

Jake Pacacha ’23 was selected for the Connecticut Soccer Coaches Association’s All-State Team. Jake has committed to play Division II Soccer at Bloomsburg University.

CROSS COUNTRY

Both our Boys and Girls Cross Country teams took part in the CIAC Championships! The girls finished 6 out of 20.

GIRLS SOCCER CIAC, CLASS L CHAMPIONS

Alexa Pino ’25 and Taylor Jenkins ’24 made the United Soccer Coaches Association’s All-Region (All-New England) Team. Alexa Pino was also chosen for the United Soccer Coaches Association’s All-America Team and was the Connecticut Girl’s Player of the Year.

WRESTLING

Congratulations to Zachary Brzoska ’24 and Lucas Kellogg ’25 for placing 3rd and 5th in States, respectively.

Athletic Highlights

ST. JOES PARTNERS WITH KMK TRAINING, LLC

In January 2023, St. Joseph High School announced a new partnership with KMK Training, Fairfield County’s premier health and performance experts. KMK now provides professional, collegiate-level strength and conditioning services for all 50 of our athletic teams. In addition, KMK trainers now oversee fitness programming for all student-athletes in the Health and Wellness Center daily.

KMK Training has been selected to partner with SJ because of their extensive experience and proven success working with local high school athletes. Mr. Hunter Fluegel is our new year-round Head Strength & Conditioning Coach, and his resume forecasts a leap of forward progress for our athletic programs. Mr. Fluegel has earned a BS in Exercise Science and Nutrition from Southern Connecticut State University and conditioning certifications from ACE, ACSM, and USAW. In addition, Mr. Justin Leigh will be assisting Mr. Fluegel as our strength and conditioning intern. Mr. Leigh, is currently studying at the University of Bridgeport; his determination is evident in his coaching style as he guides students to achieve their personal and team fitness goals.

“We are very excited to partner with KMK Training to service our strength and conditioning programs for our student-athletes,” said Kevin Butler, Athletic Director. “KMK is a leader in sports performance development at both the high school and collegiate levels. Our student-athletes and coaches will benefit greatly from working with KMK as they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field of strength and conditioning.”

The KMK Team will also assist our student-athletes by creating a team-building app, preparing college athletic profiles, and hosting combines. In addition, all SJ students will have access to KMK’s recovery unit in Fairfield, which includes, ice baths, saunas, cupping modules, and other restorative services. For those student-athletes interested in playing at the collegiate level, these resources are invaluable. In 2022, forty SJ athletes signed at the NCAA Division I, II, and III levels.

For our students who choose not to participate on athletic teams, SJ will continue to offer our Health & Wellness Curriculum as well as information on nutrition, fitness, mindfulness, and self-care. Our Health & Wellness Center is always open to all students, regardless of athletic commitment.

ARTISTIC TALENT IN VIBRANT DISPLAY

Students at St. Joes are not required to enroll in our Fine Arts courses, and yet they flock to these elective classes with vigor, enthusiasm, and talent - lots of talent. In September 2021, Ms. Daniela Pellegrini joined the SJ community as our Art Teacher. Ms. Pellegrini has earned a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts and Masters of Art Education from Manhattanville College where she was inspired to teach students the fundamentals of each art medium while encouraging creativity, expression, and the exploration of new techniques.

Under Ms. Pellegrini’s instruction, students are uncovering new talents, artistic interests, and in some cases, life-long passions. Ms. Pellegrini makes art accessible to students at all levels of experience by utilizing familiar household objects and tools before graduating to more formal mediums. This year, students taking Sculpture used bars of soap to carve unique statues and etched pieces of artwork. During the Christmas season, classes held a competitive graham cracker build-off to inventively construct stable and symmetric architecture using only edible items, including the creation of their own icing!

In Studio Art, Cadets used their newfound skills to create unconventional self-portraits - portraying themselves in unique and unseen ways. Two- and three-dimensional pieces are proudly displayed on bulletin boards and in campus hallways. Artists explored elements of surreal and still-life paintings by composing their own versions using paint, pencil, and markers.

Ms. Pellegrini has also enhanced opportunities for students who have found their passion in the arts by developing partnerships with other clubs on campus to host Creative Collectives, a place where all students are welcome to attend and explore their artistic interests. Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, St. Joes will offer AP Art & Design for the first time! AP Art & Design promotes advanced mastery of various techniques and a wide array of artwork while also encouraging students to use analytical skills to critique art, evaluate, explain, and measure artistic growth. We cannot wait to see what our talented Cadets create next!

The Class of 2023

CONGRATULATIONS TO A CLASS OF RESILIENT DETERMINED, AND INSPIRATIONAL CADETS

The resiliency and strength of the Class of 2023 will be admired and remembered for years to come. They were only in the middle of their sophomore year when the pandemic shut down their world. For the remainder of that year, they missed out on trips, class celebrations, and seeing their friends face-to-face. They came back in September 2020 to a hybrid schedule, masks, and social distancing. It was certainly not easy, yet they made it look as though it were.

Over the past four years, the Class of 2023 have grown, matured, and experienced life in a way that few others will understand. They have proven themselves to be selfless, courageous, and ambitious; everything a St. Joes graduate is meant to be. We have no doubt that the education they have acquired here - while being far from “normal” - will grant them all the confidence and wisdom to face the next step on their journeys. We are incredibly proud of our Class of 2023.

Class of 2023 Acceptances!

The Class of 2023 submitted 1564 applications to 316 colleges and universities!

11% of those applications were to Catholic Institutions and there was a 9% increase in early decision or early action applications.

Allegheny College

Anna Maria College

Appalachian State University

Arizona State University

Assumption University

Auburn University

Babson College

Barry University

Baylor University

Belmont University

Bentley University

Boston College

Bowdoin College

Bridgewater State University

Bryant University

Central Connecticut State University

Clark University

Clarkson University

Clemson University

Coastal Carolina University

Colby-Sawyer College

Colgate University

College of Charleston

Curry College

Dean College

DePaul University

DeSales University

Drexel University

Duquesne University

Eastern Connecticut State University

Elmhurst University

Elon University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Emmanuel College

Endicott College

Fairfield University

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Memorial University

Florida Southern College

Fordham University

Furman University

Franciscan University of Steubenville

Georgia Institute of Technology

Gettysburg College

High Point University

Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Holy Cross College

Immaculata University

Indiana University

Iona University

Iowa State University

Ithaca College

James Madison University

Keene State College

Lasell University

Louisiana State University

Loyola Marymount University

Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Maryland

Loyola University New Orleans

Manhattanville College

Marine Corps

Marist College

Marquette University

Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Merrimack College

Miami University (Oxford)

Michigan State University

Misericordia University

Monmouth University

Moravian University

Nichols College

Northeastern University

Norwich University

Nova Southeastern University

The Ohio State University

Ohio University

Pace University

Palm Beach Atlantic University

Paul Smith’s College

Penn State University

Pepperdine University

Plymouth State University

Providence College

Purdue University Northwest

Quinnipiac University

Regis College

Rhode Island College

Rhodes College

Roger Williams University

Rollins College

Rutgers University

Sacred Heart University

Saint Joseph’s University

Saint Leo University

Saint Louis University

Salisbury University

Salve Regina University

San Diego State University

Savannah College of Art and Design

Seattle University

Seton Hall University

Sewanee: The University of the South

Shenandoah University

Siena College

Southern Connecticut State University

St. John’s University

St. Michael’s College

Stetson University

Stonehill College

Stony Brook University

Suffolk University

SUNY College at Brockport

SUNY College at Cortland

SUNY College of Environmental

Science and Forestry

Syracuse University

Temple University

Texas Christian University

Towson University

University of Alabama

University of Arizona

University of Bridgeport

University of Colorado

University of Delaware

University of Hartford

University of Hawaii

University of Kansas

University of Kentucky

University of Maine

University of Massachusetts

University of Michigan

University of Mississippi

University of New Hampshire

University of New Haven

University of North Carolina

University of Notre Dame

University of Pittsburgh

University of Rhode Island

University of Richmond

University of Saint Joseph

University of Scranton

University of Southern Maine

University of Tampa

University of Vermont

Vermont Technical College

Villanova University

Virginia Tech

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

West Virginia University

Western Connecticut State University

Western New England University

Wheaton College

Xavier University

Meet the Incredibly Talented CLASS OF 2027

Leafing through the application files for the Class of 2027, it was as if pieces of a puzzle were falling right into place. The future star of the spring musical, the debate team champions, starting pitchers, and Student Council leaders are all here – all ready to step into their next great adventure at St. Joes. More importantly, they’re ready to carry on the outstanding legacy of Maroon and Gold excellence 60 years in the making.

31 towns in Fairfield, New Haven, and Hartford Counties

52% - 48% ratio of female to male students

55% - 45% ratio of applicants from public and private schools.

The Class of 2027 will become the 66th Class of Cadets at St. Joes. They will uphold our long-standing history of tradition, and academic excellence.

ACADEMICS

One student earned a perfect math score on the Entrance Exam and is currently studying Calculus as an 8th grader!

ATHLETICS

82% of student-athletes excelled on the field and beyond, receiving awards for character, kindness, leadership, or school pride.

SERVICE

One Cadet facilitated a service project wherein 2,000 Cheer boxes were packed and shipped to Poland to be distributed to children in Ukraine.

LEADERSHIP

68% of accepted students are recognized by the National Junior Honor Society. 15% are involved with Student Government and Student Council.

FINE ARTS

One student placed first in a National Irish Dance Championship and another placed 2nd and ‘sold gold’ in a National singing competition. 48% of our students are involved in the performing arts!

THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

78% of students are recognized as honors or high honor students. They also boast leadership titles, such as Class President, Vice President, Student Ambassador, and Student Council President.

One Cadet was an Invention Convention National Finalist; another placed first in their school’s Invention Convention contest; and yet another went on to compete at the University of Connecticut.

Brian Russell P ’10, ’12, ’16

Brian Russell is No Stranger Behind the Camera. Whether Moderating SJ Today, Shooting Promo Videos for our Admission Team, or Directing Short Films on our Campus, Brian has Watched St. Joseph High School Grow and Thrive Through the Lens of his Camera for More Than 14 years.

If you’ve been fortunate enough to be on campus while Brian Russell was filming our students, you’ve seen a director truly capable of capturing the authentic spirit of St. Joes. After all, he’s seen our school through the eyes of a parent, alumni spouse, teacher, club moderator, and film director.

“I taught Advanced Technology at SJ from 2009 to 2012, a computer course focused on graphic design and video production. At the time, two of my three my children, Sam ’12 and Carly ’10, were attending the school, and Sam was a member of the video club I moderated.”

Despite loving the first video camera he received as a child, Brian opted to earn his degree in Business – the “correct” career path – instead. “I spent 17 years in the business world before I realized my soul needed a career change.”

Brian sold his business and bought a new camera on a whim. “I had no idea that the camera I bought would turn out to be the next big thing,” he says with a smile. “I started out shooting videos for my family, and the next thing I knew, friends, and friends of friends called me to do this work for money.”

This newfound hobby helped land Brian at St. Joes, moderating SJ Today, SJ’s video news program, and working with a group of students who

continue to assist Brian to this day.

Midway through the pandemic, Brian realized he was desperate for another change. “It was Spring of 2021, and I just became tired of shooting corporate talking-head videos. I needed to do something different. So I’ve directed four films in the last year and a half, including co-directing the most recent one with my son, Sam. SJ alums have also worked on all these stories.”

Brian called his friend Mike Boland to collaborate. “A month later we shot Mike’s script, Yo Andrea. And a month after that we were getting into film festivals.” Yo Andrea counts Brian’s wife, Lisa Russell (nee DeTullio ’82) and Tom Baik ’11 on the crew.

“I met Tom when he was in the 10th grade at SJ. It’s been amazing to watch him grow up before my eyes, and now we’ve been working together professionally for almost eight years.”

Later that same year, Brian decided to tackle another film, Tommy and the Guru, this time

bringing the crew home to Joe, filming a key scene on SJ’s fields. The crew for Tommy and the Guru included Lisa, Tom, Sam, and Diane Morrisey ’84.

In 2022, Brian wanted to go even further, trying his hand at screenwriting. “It all started while I was having breakfast at a diner in the fall of 2021. I noticed a family sitting beside us. It was an interracial family… a very pregnant mom and dad sat eating breakfast with their toddler. Then, I look over to the other side of the diner, and see another multiracial family. And as I’m sitting there, the thought occurs to me that there are literally people – people alive to this day – who were unable to have these beautiful families, and were not allowed to express their love publicly.”

Brian took his inspiration and began to co-write the script for what would become Past Prologue with Ross Popick ’14, an aspiring screenwriter and filmmaker, and another former student who worked on SJ Today

“Ross and I went back and forth on 41 different drafts of the script,” Brian says, “because getting the dialogue right in such a short film was incredibly important.” The crew on Past Prologue also included, Tom, Nick Constantine ’14 (another SJ Today Alum), Sam, and Lisa.

Working with St. Joes students as both a parent, teacher, and co-creator has been a wonderful experience for Brian…as well as a bit of an adjustment. “It was the hardest thing to get them to stop calling me Mr. Russell. To realize that I was their co-worker … their co-creator … and not their high school teacher.”

As Brian embarks on his fourth film, he shares a bit of advice for aspiring filmmakers: “Just keep shooting. Shoot all the time. Film everything you can and never stop. And then edit and show it to the world.”

Brian’s newest film, co-written and co-directed with Sam, is currently in production and expected to be screening at film festivals by the summer of 2023.

Award-Winning Filmography

Yo Andrea:

• Best Romance Short, Chain NYC Film Festival, 2021

• Love American Style, Jersey Shore Film Festival, 2021

• Best Male Actor, Worldwide Women’s Film Festival, 2022

• Best Writing, Worldwide Women’s Film Festival, 2022

Tommy & The Guru:

• Best Comedy Short, Chain NYC Film Festival, 2022

• Best Writing in a Short Film, Chain NYC Film Festival, 2022

• Best Short Film (Nominee), Big Apple Film Festival and Screenplay Competition, 2022

Past Prologue

• Best Musical Score, Beautfort International Film Festival, 2023

• The Shadow Slide (Nominee), New York Short Film Festival, 2022

LtR: Tom Baik ’11, Brian Russell P ’10, ’12, ’16, actor James Naughton, Ross Popick ’14, Nick Constantine ’14, Sam Russell ’12. Photo Credit: Lisa DeTullio Russell ’82

A Special Note of Thanks:

For more than 14 years, Brian Russell has returned to St. Joes time and time again to produce professional videos. He has produced videos for nearly every facet of our school: Admissions, Accepted Students, Hall of Fame, Maroon & Gold Gala, Walkathon, and more. As an SJ parent and former teacher, Brian understands the importance of sharing the St. Joes goodness with our families, friends, and alumni. Thank you, Brian, for all that you do for St. Joes. We wish you the best of luck in your screenwriting and directing career - although we still expect to see you back on campus!

To view a few of Brian’s videos, simply visit our YouTube channel at youtube.com/thesjcadets.

Maureen Bosetti ’89

Maureen Burke Bosetti ’89 Graduated From St. Joes Knowing Exactly Where she Wanted to be – Working in Communications and Entertainment in New York City. Her Career Path has led her to all Three Destinations as she Currently Serves as the Chief Investment Officer at Initiative Media.

Even as a child, Maureen Bosetti always had a love for media. “There’s a power in entertainment. A power in watching television; the way it brings everyone together. I’ve always wanted to work in media.”

With her heart set on this goal, Maureen went from St. Joes to Fordham University, earning a degree in Communications. “The SJ Counselors helped me to figure out exactly what it was I loved and how I could turn that into a career path.” While at Fordham, she was able to secure two internships. “I did one internship on As the World Turns, do you remember that show? It was a soap opera. And then I did one at Entertainment Tonight.”

After graduating, a good friend told Maureen about a position at an advertising agency. While advertising wasn’t exactly what she was looking for, it was still in the media field, and she landed a position as an Assistant Media Buyer. “I thought I wanted to be in production, but advertising seemed so interesting and cool, and I realized pretty quickly that I enjoyed it. I was able to buy ads on behalf of General Motors, and at that time, they were

spending over a billion dollars on television!”

Maureen spent three years as an assistant before becoming a Media Buyer at just 24 years old. She leveraged her new role to gain experience in the business. She then decided to expand her horizons and move into the sales division. “I wanted to get experience on the other side of the desk.” Maureen now works as the Chief Investment Officer at Initiative Media as an ad buyer, managing a 4-billiondollar portfolio.

Going to St. Joes was no small piece of Maureen’s journey. “I went to St. Joes because of the small, tight-knit community. I loved the people there, the friends I’ve made, many of whom I am still friends with today.”

St. Joes also helped Maureen discover her passion. “I certainly found out which majors I did not want to dive into,” she says with a laugh. “Like Physics or Algebra…I just wasn’t passionate about those subjects. But one thing I did value – and still do to this day – were the writing and English classes. I took classes with Mrs. Green – she’s probably

the best teacher I’ve ever had – and she taught me so much about writing that I still use in my everyday life.”

At SJ, Maureen was also the coeditor of the Yearbook, where she gained experience managing deadlines, strategic planning, and collaboration with others. “You need an army of people to create the yearbook. So I learned a lot about leadership and organization.” The leadership skills that that she learned at St. Joes and in college still inform her negotiation style to this day. “It’s really about creating the best win-win scenario on both sides. It’s about creating relationships that work longterm.”

Her advice to seniors trying to break into the media industry? “Do your homework. Be curious. Ask questions. Network with people – there are so many who are willing to help you. Learn how to communicate effectively. And most important of all, you have to have a passion for this business. There will be days when you will be overwhelmed and your career will be complicated. But at the heart of it, if you truly love the media business, that can get you through anything.”

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Beginning in September, the Advancement Office Kicked off Another School Year With Spirit, Hosting a Variety of Engagement Events!

1

Vines and Steins

SJ’s annual kick-off event of the new school year! An evening of wine and beer tasting, led by the Parent Association, was hosted on September 17 inside the gymasium. More than 200 guests were in attendance to mix, mingle, and meet parents of our newest Cadets.

Walkathon

2

The 43rd annual Walkathon (the longest-running student-led fundraiser at St. Joes) was hosted on a perfect-weather day! The dedication and generosity of our community was overwhelming as we raised more than $50K to benefit SJ’s Tuition Relief Fund.

3

Homecoming/Reunions/Athletic Hall of Fame

Homecoming weekend (October 21-23) was a maroon and gold marathon! The weekend began with the Athletic Hall of Fame dinner, hosting more than 150 guests. On Saturday, we hosted our illustrious alumni at the homecoming game, which included an alumni tent. The Class of 1972 enjoyed their 50th reunion celebration at Tashua Knolls, with a Mass and tours of SJ the following morning. We extend a special thanks to the 1972 committee members who dedicated their time and energy to reuniting their classmates.

Benefactor Mass

4

Hosted on December 4, our scholarship benefactors and leadership level donors were invited to attend a special Mass in the Alumni Chapel along with student scholarship recipients and their parents. A small reception followed, which featured the SJ Christmas Tree Lighting.

5 Freshmen Parent Social

On February 15, our newest parents were all invited to attend a Parent Social in the O’Keefe Media Center. This was a casual gathering intended to provide our parents with an opportunity to meet and socialize with fellow Cadet families and members of the faculty, staff, and administration.

STAY CONNECTED!

Once a Cadet, always a Cadet. After graduating from St. Joseph High School, you are always part of the family. The Office of Advancement & Alumni Affairs is here to help you reconnect with your fellow alumni, share your life events and career achievements, promote your business, and walk down memory lane. We also want to make sure you’re always in the loop when it comes to upcoming events, new opportunities, or campus improvements. Scan the QR Code to ensure we have your most udpated information!

CLASS NOTES Cadet

Connections

1970s

In February 2023, John Harrity ’71 met up with SJ Legend, former faculty member Norm DeTullio. They had a great time catching up!

In October 22, the Class of 1972 enjoyed their 50th Reunion. It was a wonderful event, taking place during Homecoming Weekend, and involving so many of our alumni! Many thanks to our Committee members for bringing our Cadets back together once again.

1980s

James Dzurenda ’84 was recently appointed by Governor Joseph Lombardo to be Director of the State of Nevada Department of Corrections. James has decades of experience in corrections and law enforcement leadership.

In December, Detective Rocco Testi ’89 was on campus on behalf of the Trumbull Police Union (Local 1745) who generously donated funds to help with our Freshmen Class Sandwich Drive to benefit Bridgeport Rescue Mission!

In 2022, Maureen Bosetti ’89 was named a recipient of the Changing the Game Award from She Runs It. As Chief Investment Officer at Initiative Media, Maureen has been a trailblazer in the media planning and buying industry by driving more inclusive media investments. Through her work in promoting a more equitable media planning practice, she initiated new partnerships with Black-owned media companies and spurred a number of major brands to adopt an equity lens in their media planning and buying strategies.

JOHN HARRITY ’71

ROCCO TESTI ’89

JAMES DZURENDA ’84

MAUREEN BOSETTI ’89

1990s

Lisa Crespo-Gerald ’90 recently retired as a Chief Probation Officer after 22 years, and has started a new business “Project Pardon, LLC”. The goal is to provide application services for the State of Connecticut Absolute Criminal Record Pardons to break down economic, educational, social, housing, and psychological obstacles for those with a criminal record, while uplifting individuals, families, and communities.

Ken Martin ’95 P ’21, ’23, ’24, alongside his business partners, look to build on their momentum in Florida and possibly expand their Colony Grill brand in the Tampa Bay, FL region - looking at communities like northern Hillsborough County as well as Manatee and Sarasota counties for expansion. Colony Grill now has eight total locations, two in Florida.

2000s

Sasha Davila Russell ’01 is proud to share that she recently took on a new position at Cheshire Academy in December. Sasha is their new Director of Annual Giving.

Joanna (Rhieu) Rosenblatt ’04 visited campus to speak with our Future Healthcare Professionals Club! Joanna is a Pharmacist and she shared with students her educational path and the latest trends in her industry.

Many thanks to Lauren Laveneziana Thayer ’06 who also visited campus to speak with our Future Healthcare Professionals Club. Nurse Thayer spoke to the students about the healthcare industry and the many fields that are open to interested students. Nurse Thayer recently completed her Doctorate in Nursing, making her Dr. Thayer.

Jeansoo Choi ’09, Victoria Roehrich ’08, and Hyunsoo Choi ’09, recently caught up after nearly 15 years in Seoul, South Korea. They reminisced about SJ days and memories, including playing soccer and attending formal dances. Pictured above are Jeansoo and Victoria at his Junior Ring dance in 2007.

JOANNA ROSENBLATT ’04

LAUREN THAYER ’06

JEANSOO CHOI ’09, VICTORIA ROEHRICH ’08, HYUNSOO CHOI ’09

JEANSOO CHOI ’09, VICTORIA ROEHRICH ’08

LISA CRESPO-GERALD ’90

KEN MARTIN ’95

2010s

We are so proud to share that the Norwalk Film Festival played a short film co-written and directed by SJ parent, Brian Russell P '10, '12, '16, and Ross Popick ’14. Four SJ Alum crew members were also involved: Thomas Baik ’11, Nick Constantine ’14, Sam Russell ’12, and Lisa DeTullio Russell ’82! The film also played at the Beaufort International Film Festival in South Carolina in February.

Casey Miller ’10 married Lucas Sagar on September 2, 2022 at the Glen Island Harbour Club in New York.

Last June, Maggie Grasso ’13 became the Member Relations Manager at the Massachusettes Society of CPAs.

Dan Foster ’14 has launched a successful career as an actor AND voiceover artist! In his most recent role, he portrays Aidan McDaniels on Law & Order: SVU "A Better Person". The episode premiered in December on NBC.

Evan DeBenedetto ’16 performed at the American Music Awards in January. He performed with Best New Artist winner Dove Cameron!

STAY CONNECTED!

Want to see your updates in our next Communique? Whether it’s a new job, new baby, or something new and exciting in your life, share it with St. Joes!

Email Danielle Ferranti in our Advancement Office with updates to share with your fellow alumni - or simply scan the code below!

EVAN DEBENEDETTO ’16

DAN FOSTER ’14

CREW OF PAST PROLOGUE

MAGGIE GRASSO ’13

CASEY MILLER ’10

Thank You for Believing in a St. Joseph High School Education and Supporting our Cadets. At St. Joes, Community is Everything. Our Academic Success is Directly Tied to the Generous Support and Constant Encouragement of all who Believe in the Mission.

ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL

2320 Huntington Turnpike

Trumbull, Connecticut 06611

2023 Upcoming Events

April 5 Spring Open House

April 22

Maroon & Gold

Gala

April 27-29

Spring Musical

Legally Blonde

May 21

Legacy Mass

May 23 Fine Arts Night

June 2 Class Day & Baccalaureate Mass

June 3 Commencement for the Class of 2023

July 24 SJAA Golf Tournament