Prep Magazine: Winter 2023-24

Prep

SAINT PETER’S PREPARATORY SCHOOL

WINTER 2023-24

Remembering “Prep’s JFK”

Nothing Else Like It; So Much Else Like It Twenty-one years. That’s how long it had been since my parents had seen Jim Keenan, S.J., when they walked into the Prep library with me that winter day in early 1999. I had just been accepted to Prep, and we were attending a reception for Presidential and Ignatian Scholars. In another era, known to me only through stories and pictures, my father had taught English at Xavier High School, and Fr. Keenan had been the headmaster there. My parents’ circle of friends in the 1970s had included a number of Jesuits—among them Fr. Keenan and my soon-to-be freshman English teacher Fr. Hoag. But time and distance and life in general had chipped away at those contacts in the years since my dad gave up teaching and waded into the corporate world. Now, as we climbed the stairs to the library, my parents wondered aloud if Fr. Keenan would remember them.

The heavy wooden doors had scarcely closed behind us before the room itself seemed to call out the answer. “Madeline!

Joe!” The voice, it turned out, was only echoing off the walls; it belonged to Fr. Keenan, who was striding over to greet them, and then me (with a more reserved “Hello, Michael. Congratulations.”), and within a minute they had picked up exactly where they once left off. He had seen my application and their names, he explained, and hoped it would really be them. Now the president of my new school—a person and a place that both seemed so formidable to me, then just shy of 14—was completely overjoyed at the sight of my parents.

I had never seen anything quite like it, and yet in the 25 years since, I have seen so much just like it. That genuine care for people would turn out to be woven into everything at Prep, and it would turn out it had a name: cura personalis.

A few years later, it would be another Jesuit, Tony Azzarto, S.J., who helped me put another name to it. In his days as chaplain, Fr. Azzarto would post simple flyers in the hallways establishing a theme for the year. I am proud to be a part of the team that continues that tradition today, even if the packaging is a bit more colorful and a bit more polished. During my junior year, Fr. Azzarto’s flyers read “IN GOOD COMPANY,” three words that would take on added significance as we navigated a school year that began with the 9/11 attacks. Late last summer I sat in Fr. Keenan’s former office with Prep’s president and principal—Michael Gomez, Ed.D., ’91 and Chris Caulfield, ’03—as we talked about possible themes for this year. We kept coming back to “In Good Company,” which ended up as the winner. It was a tribute to Fr. Azzarto, Fr. Keenan, and Fr. Jim Joyce, S.J., all of whom we lost in 2023. But just as importantly, it’s a reminder that Prep strives to be living proof of what it means to be “in good company.”

These past few months, I have smiled each time I look at those words splashed across the windows of the library in bold vinyl decals. It’s not just because because I’d like to think my geometry teacher, Ms. Nickerson, would be proud of me for designing them so the diagonal maroon, white, and silver stripes line up convincingly from one pane to the next. The real reason is that it’s the very room where Fr. Keenan’s enthusiasm about reconnecting with my parents showed me how vital those personal connections are to understanding Saint Peter’s Prep.

Under the shadow of those big words this year (and as always at Grand & Warren), we’ve seen so many examples of what can be achieved in this good company. I think you’ll see a lot of it in these pages, particularly in the words of our alumni Career Day speakers and in the great work that takes place in the Browning Center. It reflects a place and its people deeply invested not only in helping students discover the best version of themselves as teenagers, but also in equipping them to keep striving, keep improving, keep growing at every stage of life’s journey.

Mike Jiran, ’03 Director of Communications

CONTENTS

Prep

Cover Story 8 Remembering “Our JFK”

Volume 34 | Number 1 Winter 2023-24 Michael Gomez, Ed.D., ’91 President

Chris Caulfield, ’03 Principal

Mike Jiran, ’03 Editor John Irvine, ’83, P’11 Sports Editor

Nearly 20 years after his tenure as Prep’s president, Prep Legend James F. Keenan, S.J. remained a beloved member of the Prep family at the time of his passing last summer.

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Features

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Trish Fitzpatrick, P’07,’16 Matthew Holowienka, ’11 Jim Horan, ’70 Mike Murcia, ’08 Contributors

Network Effects: Beyond Grand & Warren

Mark Wyville, ’76, P’11,’18 Select Photography

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Mace Duncan Ohleyer | Hotplate Original Design Concept Mike Jiran, ’03 Matthew Holowienka, ’11 Additional Photography

Thoughts from 27 of the alumni presenters at this year’s Career Day on how Prep has shaped their professional lives.

A Foundation for Success Since 2007, Prep’s John E. Browning, S.J., ’46 Learning Center has grown into a true Prep success story—and the launching pad for hundreds of students’ own Prep success stories.

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Mike Jiran, ’03 Layout

Departments

Prep Magazine is a publication of the Office of Communications of Saint Peter’s Preparatory School. It is distributed in print, free of charge, to Prep alumni, faculty, staff and parents, and online at spprep.org/prepmag

2 144 Grand Model UN’s winning ways; The new face of Prep Admissions; Freshmen get a Prep primer; Meet Marauder Memoirs

Copyright © 2024, Saint Peter’s Prep. All publication rights reserved.

CONTACT US: Alumni Relations: alumni@spprep.org or 201-547-6413 Communications: info@spprep.org or 201-547-2308

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Woman for Others: Kitty McNally This veteran of Prep’s English Department is known for her razor-sharp wit, her love of Bruce Springsteen, and her tireless dedidcation to her students.

STAY UP-TO-DATE

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To subscribe to our weekly P-Mail newsletter, contact info@spprep.org with your name, class year (if applicable) and preferred email address.

ON THE COVER: This 2002 portrait captures the trademark smile of Rev. Jim Keenan, S.J., in the midst of his tenure as Prep’s president. PHOTO: Mark Wyville, ’76, P’11,’18

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19 Sports Jantas becomes Soccer’s winningest coach en route to a county title; XC defends JC and County Championships; Two football seniors are New Jersey Super 100 selections

22 Alumni Michael Noriega, ’95 appointed to New Jersey Supreme Court; Liam O’Brien, ’94 in focus; Jersey City honors Gen. Edward Daly, ’83

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144 GRAND

A Tribute in Steel

The start of a new school year at Grand & Warren conjures many thoughts, many memories, and many hopes. And for the past 22 years, it has been natural for those thoughts to include one of the most challenging days in Prep’s—not to mention the nation’s, and the world’s—history. On Monday, A-Day, September 11, 2023, the first homeroom Examen of the year began with a reflection on Tuesday, B-Day, September 11, 2001.

The reflection referenced a newly-dedicated addition to the lobby of the English Building: a sculpture crafted of steel from the original World Trade Center, depicting two symbols of Saint Peter: the Petrine Cross and the Keys to the Kingdom. A Prep family donated the sculpture, both to memorialize the victims of the unfathomable violence Prep witnessed firsthand, and to commemorate the response of the Prep community— one of hope, compassion, and dignity in the face of tragedy.

At the donors’ request, the sculpture is placed where passersby can lay a hand on it as they reflect, and the accompanying plaque extends an inviation to do so.

“You Swept the Conference!” Model UN’s Big Semester In October, Prep’s Model UN turned in a record-breaking performance at what was then the team’s largest event to date. Prep’s five Best Delegate awards, six Outstanding Delegate awards, and two Best Novice awards. The 13 total commendations for Prep accounted for 41% of all awards presented at the South Jersey Model UN Conference, which brought together more than 350 delegates from more than a dozen schools. In congratulating the team, the conference coordinator remarked, “You swept the conference!”

But that outstanding performance was only the beginning. A few weeks later, the Bronx Science Model UN conference—with more than 750 delegates from top public and private schools in NYC, New Jersey, and Long Island (including Dalton, Trinity, Columbia Prep, and Browning) took the title of “Prep’s largest conference to date,” and Prep’s Model UN took some titles of their own— starting with Best Delegation! Team members also amassed nine individual awards.

Individual awards from the two fall conferences are listed below.

SOUTH JERSEY MUN

BRONX SCIENCE MUN

BEST DELEGATE AWARDS

BEST DELEGATE AWARDS

Jeremy Kamber, ’24; Aidan Maione, ’24; Nicolai Mendoza, ’24; Michael Sapp, ’24; Felix Puig Seppalainen, ’25 Prep’s individual award winners at the Bronx Science (above) and South Jersey Model UN conferences.

OUTSTANDING DELEGATE AWARDS Kevin Aby, ’27; Thomas Fecowycz, ’26; Finn Getz, ‘25; Andrew Norris, ’24; Gavin Rutledge, ’24; Gabriel Santos, ’24

BEST NOVICE AWARDS

Henry Bastable ’27; Corey Nyaoke ’27 2 WINTER 2023-24 n PREP MAGAZINE

Nicolai Mendoza, ’24; Gavin Rutledge, ’24; Gabriel Santos, ’24 OUTSTANDING DELEGATE AWARD Michael Sapp ‘24

HONORABLE MENTION

Kevin Aby ’27; Finn Getz, ’25; Liam Morrison, ’25; Otavio Rubies, ’26

VERBAL COMMENDATION Andrew Norris, ’24

144 GRAND

Restoring a Place of Honor As part of an Eagle Scout project last fall, Dylan Sullivan, ’25 spearheaded the restoration of a section of Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington. Dylan and his fellow scouts cleaned numerous headstones of Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I and World War II veterans. In his words, “in the process, we were able to uncover unmarked graves and shed honor to these forgotten heroes.”

In October, Dylan and his team returned to the site along with representatives of the American Legion, the Marine Corps League, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, to formally rededicate the site. “Today we brought honor to these men who served and died serving,” Dylan said at the time. “This small forgotten site in our community will not be forgotten any longer. I hope that this restoration and ceremony brings the much deserved attention to these very important men in our nation’s history and our freedom.”

Dylan noted that his Prep experience helped to inspire the project. “One thing Prep has definitely taught me is the spirit of community,” he said. “Service to my community has always been a very important aspect of my life. Prep has definitely helped strengthen that passion.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The completed restoration work; a side-by-side comparison of the headstones before and after cleaning; Dylan (foreground) and fellow scouts at the rededication ceremony.

Seniors earned early acceptances to more than 110 institutions this fall, and we look forward to celebrating even more good news for our class of ‘24 this spring!

PREP CLASS OF 2024 EARLY ACCEPTANCES

PREP MAGAZINE n SPPREP.ORG n WINTER 2023-24 3

144 GRAND TAKE A CLOSER LOOK!

“Be Yourself, Only Greater.”

The New Face of Prep Admissions

Scan here or visit spprep.org/BYOG to read the full viewbook, watch our “Welcome to Prep” video, and see a selection of other new-for-2023-24 admissions materials.

As the admissions and enrollment process for the Class of 2028 began in earnest last fall, prospective Prep students were greeted with a challenge that is ultimately a promise: “Be yourself, only greater. Be a Marauder.” That bold statement, accompanied by a bold graphical look to match, is the centerpiece of an all-new admissions marketing campaign, the most comprehensive refresh to the look and feel of Prep admissions in more than a decade. From the new viewbook and ancillary printed materials, to videos and social media content, to the welcome packets sent to each accepted student, “future Marauders” and their families have been invited to explore some of the many ways to be a Marauder, and introduced to the core values that tie all of those potential paths back together and set Prep apart as a Jesuit institution: namely the Grad-at-Grad values of being intellectually competent, open to growth, religious, loving, and committed to doing justice. Ultimately, the call to “Be yourself, only greater” echoes a fundamental part of Prep’s Jesuit identity: striving for the Magis and giving glory to God in every effort.

The collaborative effort between Prep’s Admissions and Communications Offices aimed to put the well-rounded scope of the student experience in the spotlight...from academics to athletics, from co-curriculars to retreats, from the arts to college admissions, and from service to simply being a part of a diverse and vibrant community—both within Prep’s walls and in the thriving downtown Jersey City neighborhood beyond.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive from incoming students and families, and so we wanted to share a glimpse of our new materials with those of you who have already experienced the Prep admissions process—be it a few years ago or a few decades ago!

And of course, there would certainly be no objection from either the Admissions or the Communications side if you decided to share these materials with your friends and family!

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communities are repr esented by Prep students, spanning 11 NJ counties, four NY towns, and thre e states.

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teams represented the Marauders in the 22-2 3 athletic year, winning 19 county, sectional, & state championships.

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AP & Honors courses are offered to qualified students.

SECTION 144 GRAND

Top 10% Award for Prep’s Yearbook In the fall, the 28th edition of Herff Jones’ Portfolio, an annual publication highlighting the best among thousands of school yearbooks around the US, featured the 150th anniversary edition of Prep’s Petrean in the “Top Ten Percent” of 2022 yearbooks. The honor provided some valuable motivation for the staff as they began work on the 2024 edition!

The 2024 Petrean staff showed off the Top 10% award, with moderator Kaitlyn Giroux.

“People of Prep” Connects Students & Staff This winter, Prep’s Office of Student Life presented the first in a series of “People of Prep” assemblies. This series will introduce Prep students to members of the community who often work “behind the scenes,” with two aims. One is simply painting a more complete picture of the team effort that goes into making the Prep experience a daily reality. Dean of Student Life Catie Eppler explained the second as she introduced the panel: “Because these individuals are in your school every day, there’s always the chance that you might gain another mentor [in a career field of interest] and I think that’s really valuable.”

The first panel included Chief Technology Officer Dave Bailey, ’95, Assistant Dean of Students Pat Laguerre, and Director of Communications Mike Jiran, ’03.

A Prep Senior Puzzles It Out Crossword enthusiasts in the Prep community might already have encountered the handiwork of a Prep senior, and if not, Luke Schreiber, ’24 will no doubt challenge them soon enough.

Luke, a founder of Prep’s Word Games Club, made his debut as a New York Times Crossword constructor with a Monday puzzle in December. It was one of several puzzles he has submitted—several of which have been accepted for future publication—but the first to be published. In the Times crossword blog Wordplay, Luke noted that one of the answers for his “IT’S ME AGAIN” theme (featuring two “ME”s in each theme answer) came from Mary Anne McElroy’s AP United States History class: “Wampanoag chief of the 1600s also known as King Philip” (METACOMET).

Avid solvers, or perhaps West Coast alumni, might also have spotted two of Luke’s puzzles in the LA Times as of this writing: June 23, 2023, and January 26, 2024.

Jazz Band Attends National Conference In January, 17 members of Prep’s Jazz Band attended the Jazz Education Network’s annual national conference in New Orleans.

“In addition to all the live performances with internationally known professional musicians, the boys attended and participated in many workshops and late night jam sessions,” explained Jazz Band Director Steve Caslowitz.

The group also had the opportunity to spend time with Prep alum Keenan McRae ’08, who introduced the group to many more professional musicians and led a walking tour through the French Quarter, which provided another memorable moment. “Along the way,” Mr. Caslowitz explained, “senior Christopher DiAmbrosio had a spontaneous sit-in with a Dixieland jazz street band of which Keenan knew the members. A large crowd gathered around to dance and cheer!”

PREP MAGAZINE n SPPREP.ORG n WINTER 2023-24 5

144 GRAND Seniors Contending for Academic Accolades Seniors Ryan Divan and Nicolas Bambrick-Santoyo have both attained finalist status in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Both were selected as semifinalists based on their scores on the PSAT during their junior year, and advanced to the finalist stage via an application process that considers students’ overall academic record, SAT scores, and essays. Finalists are eligible for selection to receive one of approximately 8,000 National Merit Scholarship awards, which are announced in the spring.

As of this writing, Ryan Divan is also one of approximately 5,000 candidates nationwide in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities. Candidates—who are identified based on their SAT and ACT performance—are invited to submit an application for further consideration. A committee of educators will select approximately 650 semifinalists based on these applications, to be announced in April. A maximum of 161 semifinalists will be selected by the Commission on Presidential Scholars to receive the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion at a White House ceremony in June.

Best wishes to Nicolas and Ryan as they continue in these prestigious award programs!

Nicolas Bambrick-Santoyo, ’24 (left) and Ryan Divan, ’24

Student Designs Hit the Campus Shop This winter, T-shirts designed by Prep seniors Lorenzo Enright (“Defend the Barn”) and Nicolai Mendoza (“Fear the 4th”) went on sale in the Prep Campus Shop. Each celebrates an iconic part of Prep’s campus. The limited-edition designs were the fruits of a class project in the Graphic Design elective, taught by Patrick McCoy of the Fine & Performing Arts Department. Both shirts proved popular with customers, and new designs from students taking the elective during the spring semester will follow!

Marauder Memoirs Puts Students in the Spotlight

Francis Garrett, ’24

Launched this past fall, Marauder Memoirs is a new initiative by Prep’s communications office, aimed at highlighting the unique personalities of Prep students, and their diverse contributions to the vibrant life of the school—from academics to the arts, from athletics to activities. Each video gives one student, nominated by members of Prep’s faculty and staff, an opportunity to talk about the Prep experience from his own perspective, sharing some of the interests and passions he has developed or built upon at Grand & Warren.

It’s a testament both to the array of students who find a home at Saint Peter’s Prep, and to the array of opportunities Prep offers for students to pursue their interests and refine their skills—a brief, two-minute window, every few weeks, into some of the many ways to be a Marauder.

Nofer Tadros, ’24

Three installments have been published as of this writing. More are in production, and the intent is to continue to release a new Marauder Memoir each month during the school year via Prep’s social media channels.

The first three episodes have seen Jersey City senior Francis Garrett talk about experiencing— and being a part of—the perfoming arts at Prep, Westfield junior Ignacio Marro share his love of sports journalism and photography, and Bayonne senior Nofer Tadros sing the praises of Latin and the Classics Society. Their personalities and talents are distinctly different, yet in one way they are all the same: in striving to learn more, do more, and be more, each is entirely himself, and each is entirely a Marauder!

View the full playlist of Marauder Memoirs at spprep.org/MarauderMemoirs 6 WINTER 2023-24 n PREP MAGAZINE

Ignacio Marro,’25

SECTION 144 GRAND

Freshmen Get a Prep Primer

Assistant Principal Kimby Heil, one of five Prep Experience teachers this year, posed with one of her sections at semester’s end.

During the fall semester, the Class of 2027 became the first class of Prep freshmen to experience a new addition to the curriculum: a seminar course entitled “The Prep Experience.” With freshmen representing a wider array of middle schools than ever, the course is designed to put each student in a position to understand, appreciate, and thrive in the culture of a Jesuit school, ready to take on the rigors of high school and, ultimately, life beyond Grand & Warren. The course employs small sections—about 16 students each—to create an opportunity for a community to form within the group. Some of the coursework is purely practical, from learning to get the most out of the Google Suite apps that power so much of Prep life, to practicing the art of introducing oneself with a handshake. A “resource mapping” exercise saw freshmen seek out members of the administration and staff, learning about the roles various adults beyond the classroom play in the Prep community. Other assignments were more of an opportunity for reflection; for example, early on, students idenitified their hopes and concerns for the start of their Prep careers, and during the final week, they reflected on those thoughts through the lens of the first few months.

We Are Called: Prep Cohort Attends Diversity Conference In December, a delegation representing various quarters of the Prep community—faculty, administration, staff, alumni, and students—participated in the second annual “We Are Called” New Jersey Catholic School Diversity Conference. The event, co-hosted by Delbarton School and Saint Benedict’s Prep, and guided by student leadership from Delbarton, Saint Benedict’s, and Oak Knoll, aims to provide a platform for meaningful connection among New Jersey Catholic schools on the basis of their work in diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging. According to the conference organizers, this year’s event “invite[d] schools to contsider the communities that God calls us to build with a responsibility to serve and where each member feels authentic belonging. ” Attending the conference from Prep were (left to right):

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Keith Cummings, ’10, Assistant Director of Campus Ministry

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Aymee Torres, P’19, World Langauges Department

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Dalma Santana, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

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Mike Murcia, ’08, Director of Alumni Relations

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Kimby Heil, Assistant Principal

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Axel Martinez, ’25

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Chris Caulfield, ’03, Principal

Aviv Talmor, ’25 Michael Wright, ’10, Associate Director of Admissions Charles Mays III, ’25 Stephen Fahy, History & Social Sciences Department

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COVER STORY In the months since the untimely passing of former Prep president Rev. Jim Keenan, S.J., rarely a day has passed without his name being mentioned somewhere on campus or at an alumni or parent event– often with a smile, always with the most heartfelt affection.

Jim Horan, ’70, Prep’s vice president for planning & principal giving and a longtime friend and colleague of Fr. Keenan’s, provides some insights into this incredible legacy at Grand & Warren.

Remembering “Our JFK”

by Jim Horan, ’70

It was in early fall 1987 that Fr. Jim Keenan and I first crossed paths—and it still seems like yesterday. On the

of cherished friend—and perhaps honorary family member—to so many people in so many places.

afternoon of that academic year’s initial meeting of the Board of Trustees, he entered my Mulry Hall office, introduced himself as a new trustee, and asked if I had a few minutes to acquaint him with our communications and marketing program. I was thrilled that he was impressed with Prep Magazine, which was then in its sixth year, and he mentioned that he was particularly interested in our student recruitment initiatives.

Our conversation only lasted about 15 or 20 minutes, but I will never forget how wonderfully relaxed it was—how his gentle and warm manner was coupled with a good sense of humor. He listened attentively, with unflinching eye contact, and had intriguing follow-up questions.

Sure, there was a power dynamic at play here: he was a most formidable Jesuit priest—the president of McQuaid High School in Rochester and the truly legendary former president of Xavier High School in Manhattan, who was now becoming a Prep trustee—and I was a mid-level Prep administrator (director of public information at the time). But his manner and body language conveyed the strong message that somehow, on that particular afternoon, we were just colleagues in the broader service of Jesuit secondary education. For me, that was a very early but

potent example of “the Keenan magic.”

Thirty-six years later, beginning on the afternoon of August 13, 2023, I joined literally thousands of other folks from across the northeast to mourn the death of one of the giants in our personal and/or professional lives—a signature member of our own personal Mount Rushmores.

Starting almost immediately following the news of his passing, a flurry of phone calls, texts and emails arrived hourly, and the outreaches continued for weeks, with most people just wanting to share their own stories of how this most special Jesuit priest had impacted their lives. The conversations, whether verbal or written, were cathartic and the narratives were similar, but certainly not identical, underscoring the myriad and unique ways “Fr. Jim” achieved the status 8 WINTER 2023-24 n PREP MAGAZINE

Especially for the broader Saint Peter’s Prep community—which had endured the passing of another truly beloved Jesuit (Fr. Tony Azzarto, S.J.) just four months prior, as well as that of Fr. Keenan’s immediate predecessor as Prep president (Fr. Jim Joyce, S.J.) three months after that—Fr. Keenan’s passing was a psychological and emotional gut punch. However, it mercifully also provided the consolation that he did not suffer much following his fatal heart attack.

With absolutely no surprise, it seemed as if every individual with even a tangential connection to the former New York Province of the Society of Jesus was in deep mourning. Yes, we had known that, as the saying goes, Fr. Keenan was not getting any younger, evidenced mostly by his increasingly forward lean when walking (a gradual result of a childhood accident that caused chronic back problems). But walk he did, never missing a beat in making himself available to the innumerable folks who metaphorically (and sometimes literally) tugged at his sleeve. Could he be available to perform a wedding ceremony or a baptism? Could he “put in a good word” for a son or daughter applying to a Jesuit college?

Or, with understandable short notice, could he officiate at a family funeral?

Throughout his career as a priest, his scorecard regarding accepting these requests was astonishing…and in the world of Saint Peter’s Prep during the last months of his life, this coincided with his volunteering to perform a number of other baptisms and weddings that previously were on Fr. Azzarto’s schedule. It was a final and poignant connection between these two monumental Prep Jesuits, who entered the Society of Jesus just a month apart in summer 1956, and who together were ordained on June 12,1969, solidifying their lifelong friendship. In that context, that date itself may deserve a special place in Prep lore.

During his induction into Xavier’s Hall of Fame in 1995, the presenter’s remarks noted that Fr, Keenan had officiated at his wedding, baptized his children, and buried his parents, adding with smile, “I told him that

SECTION COVER STORY I wouldn’t be surprised if he officiated at my own funeral…at which point I could swear that he started flipping through the pages of his datebook.” Everyone in the room appreciated the reference.

On the west side of the Hudson River, during his tenure as Board chair (1999-2004), Charlie Lizza, ’74, P’11,’12 created a special bond with Fr. Keenan, and as in virtually all similar cases it became a lifelong friendship. “Following the years that we partnered as president and Board chair, I would get together with Jim for dinner, usually in New York City,” Charlie recalled. “Walking on the streets of New York

or sitting in a restaurant with Jim was like being with a celebrity. Invariably, and on just about every occasion, someone would recognize him, come up to the table or stop

us on the street and engage him in a reminiscent conversation, or talk about how he had helped them during their lives at Xavier, or Prep, or from wherever they knew him. He would grin ear to ear, laugh

and relish the occasion.”

Physically, beginning with middle age, Fr. Keenan’s countenance and demeanor always seemed to convey both wisdom and experience, and he easily could have portrayed a bank president or a corporate CEO in a Broadway play or a Hollywood film. And then there was “the

voice,” so often lovingly imitated by students, faculty and friends, both on campus as well as at any gathering of the Prep community. His dulcet baritone often has been referred to as “the voice of God”—with comparisons to

that of actor James Earl Jones and NFL Films’ narrator John Facenda. And on one memorable Halloween afternoon during Fr. Keenan’s presidency at Grand & Warren (1994-2006), a few intrepid students surreptitiously positioned a Darth Vader helmet on a small table outside his office door.

The vocal implication was clear, and when he saw it he immediately responded with hearty laughter and appreciation.

And likely due to his voice’s gravity, he rarely needed to speak in more than normal conversational tone, even when addressing a fairly large audience. Not only did his voice resonate, but like the representative in the old E.F. Hutton television commercials, when Fr. Keenan spoke, people listened. As one member of the Prep Alumni Board put it, “Absolutely no one else would talk during Fr. Keenan’s address to a group. We just had so much respect for him and knew that if he was sharing some information with us, it was for our benefit to listen carefully.”

Similarly, most people in Fr. Keenan’s orbit mention his engaging interpersonal skills as his greatest asset, often adding that “it seemed to come naturally to him,” However, in his first-person “View from Above” essay in the school’s 150th anniversary book, Fr. Keenan provided an insight into the methodical m.o. he employed most days on campus: “On class mornings you would usually find me in the student cafeteria,

The piles of paper in Fr. Keenan’s office were nearly as legendary as the man himself, along with his booming voice and his timely phone calls to the legions of friends and colleagues he amassed over the years. This 2005 Petrean photo captures it all.

where conversations were in ‘high gear,’ It didn’t take long to pick up on different vibes: students were most open and outgoing, with their smiles, hello waves, and high fives! What a great and rewarding way to begin a school day! I usually reserved recess for a visit to the faculty room. Quick hellos and greetings are important for morale: how are you today, is so and so feeling better, etc. A smile, a wave, goes a long way.” Again, the Keenan magic.

He also could administer tough love when necessary. His assistant at Prep, Maryphyllis Locricchio, P’95,’96, recalled when he had a cafeteria table placed in the hallway outside his office, at which designated students who were experiencing academic difficulty would study or do extra schoolwork during their free periods. “It was his way of showing them that he cared and that he was aware of how students were doing,” she explained, in addition to stressing the importance of “putting in the work” to improve their grades. She added, “The students didn’t necessarily enjoy having to spend their free periods there, but they got the message, and Fr. Keenan was always quick to acknowledge any improvement in their grades.”

Father Keenan’s office desk on the second floor of Shalloe Hall regularly resembled a work of abstract art, with disheveled mounds of papers completely obscuring the wood beneath them, accompanied by numerous documents lying on the floor around (or even under) his chair. But it was an extremely rare occasion when he couldn’t, on cue, reach into a pile and instantly extract the exact document being discussed at that moment. (In fact, Maryphyllis dreaded receiving the occasional long-distance phone call from Fr. Keenan, during which he

Long after his tenure as Prep’s president, Fr. Keenan was a regular at Prep events, relishing the opportunity to reconnect with old friends. These are scenes from the 2017 Grand Gala, which included a toast to his 80th birthday. LEFT: Fr. Keenan shared a hearty laugh with Jim Horan, ’70 and Prep Trustee Vito Germinaro, ’70. RIGHT: Fr. Keenan and his former assistant, Maryphyllis Locricchio, P’95,’96

COVER STORY would ask her to go into his office and search for a particular document that was lying amidst the tsunami of paperwork. “With a laugh I would always reply, ‘Please—anything but that!’” she said, “but then he’d patiently direct me to the specific part of the desk—or floor—where it was buried, and I’d always find it.”)

This organized chaos in his office belied the very organized and methodical way in which he performed both his pastoral and executive duties. He regularly returned to his office after dinner, often working until 11:00pm and making his famous calls to friends and colleagues to commemorate an important day in their lives.

Marianne Sweeney, P’04,’06,’09 forged her own close connection with Fr. Keenan as a Prep mom. “I was active with the Parents’ Association,” she said, “helping out with events run by the Advancement Office, and

Fr. Jim was always part of these gatherings. His way with people was legendary, and I witnessed it in a personal

way. His kindness and warmth were his trademark, and he remembered names and places better than anyone. We sat with him at many Prep Galas and watched him work the room. Everyone wanted to speak to him. He was masterful.”

It is likely that no layman was closer to Fr. Keenan, and for more years, than was former Prep principal (1992-2003) Jack Raslowsky, ’79, who is the current president of Xavier. Their Prep administrative tenures overlapped for nine years, highlighted by their very effective and memorable shepherding of the school through the events of 9/11.

Appropriately, Jack gave one of the eulogies at the vigil service prior to Fr. Keenan’s funeral.

“With Jim there were the many seen and well-known gifts,” Jack said, “including hospital visits, visits to Murray-Weigel, baptisms, weddings, ordinations, province days, funerals, notes, birthday and anniversary calls, lunches and dinners. At the same time, I counted it as a great

privilege to have witnessed the less well-known gifts: Jim always answering the phone for friends struggling with mental illness no matter how often they called.

Jim not forgetting an alumnus or friend who was down on his luck. Jim standing with those in trouble with the law. There were so many on the margins for whom Jim was the presence of God. What a blessing.”

One of Fr. Keenan’s fellow Jesuits, current Prep counselor Fr. John Mullin, S.J., got to know him in two disparate contexts—first as a colleague on campus, and then during his own tenure as Superior of Prep’s Jesuit Community. He said, “I often wondered where Jim got the

time to do all that he did. When he was not on the road with fundraising, he would attend home sports events and sit with the team on the bench. He rejoiced with the students when they won and he consoled them when they lost. I know that each member of those teams knew

they were loved and respected by Jim Keenan because he was there for them. Actually, his cura personalis extended to everyone in the Prep Community: fellow Jesuits, students, faculty, families, Board members. I think this was the hallmark of Jim’s time as president of Prep. He loved our students, he worked hard for them and their families, and he shared his warm personality with the entire community.”

Another fellow Jesuit, Fr. Ricardo da Silva, S.J., an associate editor at 10 WINTER 2023-24 n PREP MAGAZINE

America Media, noted, “Jim remembered everyone—even my mother, whom he had never met or spoken with. A special occasion would not go by without a phone call or handwritten note. I have lived with Jim in the same community since August 2019.

Short as that time has been—even if life lived with someone during the years of the pandemic counts for more—I could not have

asked for a better role model of Jesuit life and a more supportive brother in the Lord.”

Former trustee Paul Schaetzle, ’71 had the distinction of becoming one of Fr. Keenan’s regular “chauffeurs” (along with Steve Hudik, ’85), often driving him to and from Prep events throughout the metropolitan area and becoming a close friend and confidant. Paul recalled a conversation with Fr. Keenan regarding a close friend who was scheduled for open heart surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital, near the Province Office on 83rd St. “I mentioned my friend’s imminent surgery to him [Fr. Keenan], and he asked for her full name so he could pray for her,” Paul said. “Two

days later I went to the hospital to check on her, and she said, ‘Your friend was here!’ ‘My friend?’ I asked, and she replied, ‘Yes, Fr. Keenan was here this morning, and he prayed and blessed me!’”

Each of the four northeast Jesuit high schools where Fr. Keenan served as president share “ownership” of his legacy, and each has honored him in a significant way—Canisius (Buffalo) with its highest institutional award for service, and three others with campus facilities that bear his name (Keenan Commons at Xavier, Keenan Hall at McQuaid, and, of course, Keenan Field here at Grand & Warren).

Prep’s deep connection with Fr. Keenan was forged during his 12-year tenure at the helm, which is the longest presidency in school history.

However, truth be told, Xavier High School has its own very potent claim, based on his long tenure on their campus that began when this 26-year-old Jesuit scholastic—Mr. Jim Keenan, S.J.—first stepped behind a podium in 1963 to teach English and history. This was followed by a quick rise through the administrative ranks—assistant headmaster for administration, headmaster (principal), and then president—that extended 18 years, interrupted only when he left teaching to continue his Jesuit training.

At each of the four institutions he created a culture that was equal parts collegial and pragmatic, and as a complement Fr. Keenan blessing Class of 2004 graduates during their Baccalaureate Mass in Saint Peter’s Church. His personal and professional contributions to the communities he served might have been matched only by his pastoral ones, as evidenced by the weddings, baptisms, and funerals that filled his calendar.

COVER STORY

ABOVE: Fr. Keenan is third from left at the 1995 rededication of the renovated Prep library.

This work was funded by the Keys to the Future campaign, one of two capital campaigns at Prep during Fr. Keenan’s tenure. RIGHT: Fr. Keenan presented the Bene Merenti award to Coach Rich Hansen, P’03,’09 at graduation in 2003, with then-board chair Charlie Lizza, ’74, P’11,’12 looking on.

to his engaging personality he also possessed a well-earned reputation as a “fiscal watchdog,” especially when reviewing a proposed new budget for the following school year. After all, he was a child of the Great Depression, and on the micro level this fact was reflected in his consistent admonitions to his colleagues regarding not wasting paper, and to turn off the lights when leaving a room. I recall discussing a few potential new budget items with Prep’s then-principal Jack Raslowsky in the spring of 1994, and Jack provided me with succinct advice: “You better get these items into this budget now [before Fr. Keenan arrives as the new president], because you’ll have to battle mightily for them from next year forward.”

time to reflect on that, I know that I learned that lesson as a

student here more than 20 years ago, observing Jim Keenan doing the big things and the little things to ensure this was a place of love for so many.”

For athletic director Rich Hansen, P’03,’09, Fr. Keenan embodied the qualities of a great coach, and an even better leader. “Jim Keenan meant so much to so many,” he said. “In a myriad of ways, his great gift was to meet people at their individually unique level. He brushed elbows with brilliantly successful people, and he would reach those in great need in the same way, often on the same day. What a gift to this world!

In particular, the Board of Trustees was aware of, and appreciated, Fr. Personally, he was a powerful influence in my life— Keenan’s fiscal conservatism, and at the spring 2006 Board meeting, giving me confidence when I was down, a shot of cold during which the trustees shared anecdotes about Fr. Keenan’s legacy, Finance Committee member Jim Sweeney, ’71 famously quipped that “Fr. reality when it was called for…and he was the very first Keenan threw nickels around like manhole covers,” which drew laughs to hug me when it was needed. His thoughtful calls, presence and knowing nods from his fellow trustees. at family emergencies and in times of need, or heartfelt cards were all Current Prep president Michael Gomez, Ed.D., ’91 first returned to Prep his way of being ‘Jim.’ In true greatness he left me with so as a faculty member in 1997 when Fr, Keenan was president. “I was many memories and so much to hold on to—a life’s teaching sophomore literature in the English Building on September worth of love, care and friendship. I miss him.”

11, 2001,” he said. “After seeing the horrific events unfold in Prep’s backyard, I decided that I wanted to go back to graduate school and It is well known that at Prep and elsewhere, Fr. Keenan was earn a degree in educational leadership. I remember going into Fr. affectionately referred to as “JFK.” In addition to using his initials as Keenan’s office that spring to inform him that this would be my last year shorthand, it also was a reverential allusion to another beloved leader— teaching at Prep. I don’t remember exactly what he said, but I know he the country’s charismatic and widely admired 35th president. The made a point of letting me know that he was proud of me, that he was nickname just seemed to fit Fr. Keenan well—informal but respectful. in my corner, and that I should trust my instinct to leave. When I walked However, in hindsight, maybe “FDR” would be an even more appropriate out of his office, I knew I was making the right decision. comparison: a president whose record-setting length of tenure in office “Fast forward about 17 years later to July 2019. I was sitting in the was matched by a profoundly game-changing impact. same office where I told Fr. Keenan I would be leaving…but this time I In any case, the Keenan legacy at Prep is firmly beyond reproach, serving was on the other side of the desk. I thought it would be appropriate for as a proud manifestation of what Jesuit school leadership aspires to my first phone call from my new office to be to him. He answered It includes dramatic improvements to the campus over two capital immediately, and I asked him if I could borrow his office be. campaigns (highlighted by upgraded facilities in the English Building, for the next 15 years or so. After he laughed and said, and the creation of both the Warren Street Plaza and Keenan Field) and ‘That would be fine,’ we chatted for a few more minutes. Once a notable increase in donations supporting scholarships and financial again, I don’t remember exactly what he said, but I knew he was proud aid—the latter being one of Fr. Keenan’s priorities. In both word and of me, that he was in my corner, and that I should trust my instinct to action, he emphatically defined an era…the way that Fr. Theodore come home. It is such an honor to follow in his footsteps.” Hesburgh did during his long tenure as president at Notre Dame, and as For current principal Chris Caulfield, ’03, Fr. Keenan set the standard Vince Lombardi did as coach of the Green Bay Packers. regarding Prep’s unique position as a Jesuit institution. “As I sit at my Yes, at Grand & Warren, he was—and always will be—our JFK. And desk today, I often think of the mission of Prep, and my responsibility to as the saying goes, “There were few as good…and no one uphold that mission with my colleagues,” he said. “I often tell parents that they are part of our family here at Prep, and if I really take some better.”

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Network Effects: Beyond Grand & Warren

In December, keynote speaker Bill Price, ’87 and more than 40 fellow alumni gave presentations to Prep students during Career Day—an annual tradition organized by the Offices of Alumni Relations, Student Life, and Guidance & College Counseling. During the day, we caught up with 27 of the alumni presenters, representing a broad range of fields and professions, to talk about how Prep has shaped their professional lives. Unsurprisingly, some themes emerged: a reliable network of fellow alumni, outstanding mentors, academic rigor, an opportunity to discover and deepen interests, and life lessons about hard work, resilience, adaptability, and service. These excerpts from their remarks give a gilmpse of the true meaning of “Prep for Life.”

1 Gerry Iorio, ’98 Senior VP - Investment Strategies, CAZ investments: I think it’s the culture of success and the culture of togetherness at Prep. Everyone wants you to succeed and helps you win. Whatever career you choose, you always have resources here that you can turn to. 2 Cameron Vasfailo, ’16 Product Manager–Alexa Smart Home, Amazon HQ: I was surrounded by…individuals who pushed me to be my best. And Prep taught me good habits…showing up on time, putting in the work every day, getting work in on time, being in dress code, just doing things the right way. 3 Bill Price, ’87 VP, Corporate Communications, Zoetis: Building a career is about building relationships, not just a résumé. A lot of the relationships I’ve had at Prep have helped me build my career in communications over the years. Those friendships, those networks, have been important connections, important counselors, important advisers to me...

They have really helped to keep me on the right path. 4 Joshua Barry, ’10 Senior Site Reliability Engineer, Google NYC: By going to Prep I gained the ability to think critically and to apply my leadership skills in my career. It’s so important to be a strong leader when you go into the tech world.

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5 Capt. Robert Ryan, ’93 Captain, Bayonne Police Dept.: Maybe it’s cliché, but I was really instilled with the idea of being a Man for Others here at Prep. I was guided by one of the greatest teachers I ever had, one of the greatest men I ever knew, Fr. Tony Azzarto. He instilled in me that it was more important to be there for other people than for your own self-interest. That’s certainly how he led his life. 6 Clark Burnett, ’15 (Associate Producer, Florentine Films): Coming to Prep gave me a sense of independence. Thinking even about going on the train and how it opened up my world...that sort of agency was central to opening my mind to the possibilities. And of course my first short film was shot right here at Prep, with my Prep brothers…there really is an energy here of brotherhood and camaraderie here that’s palpable...There was a lot of possibility and fun and depth in the culture here. 7 Lt. Col. Danny Stupinski, ’96 Commander, US Air Force Defense Contract Management Agency Twin Cities: Prep gave me an opporuntiy to learn empathy. Something that really comes from Jesuit education is empathy for others. I think that gave me the tools to lead in the military. 8 John Anderson, ’69 Owner, Black Watch Productions: As I told the students today, the things they are learning here—Critical thinking, thinking on your feet, being resourceful, teamwork, creativity, problem solving—are the things that you need to do on an hour-by-hour basis if you’re working on a video or film production of any kind. 9 Joe Liccardo, ’04 VP of Data Center Operations, CoreSite: Service to the community, service to others, being a Man for Others, helping people out along the way, and giving back your knowledge and yourself to others to help them succeed. You can’t put a price on that. 10 Piero Iberti, ’07 Screenwriter, member WGA: Cura personalis for me was pretty central. I didn’t grow up with religious education at the forefront until I got to high school…As I was able to interact more with the education here I realized...compassion and empathy...were becoming a greater part of me, and now they are a part of the writing skills that I employ today. Then there were the foundational skillsets of writing through my English courses, and the relationships with my teachers here that I still carry on to this day...I had teachers who encouraged me to see a writing life was possible. 11 John Johnson, ’78 U.S. Secret Service (retired): It was amazing. I grew up in the Greenville section of Jersey City, and didn’t know much outside of Greenville. I was in school with kids from North Jersey, from South Jersey—it might not sound like much but for a kid from Myrtle Avenue, it was a big deal! That helped me when I started traveling overseas, living overseas. Learning how to communicate, express yourself, and find commonality among others really helped me. 12 Riley Horton, ’17 Quality Engineer, Deka: Everything I learned at Prep added to the foundation of who I was and helped shape who I am…As an engineer working at a medical device company, our main focus is on trying to develop devices that are helping other people and having a positive impact on their lives…I think Saint Ignatius said it best: where your passion and where your calling intersect, that’s what sets your soul on fire. 13 Geno Keohane, ’18 Senior Analyst, Spencer Stuart: My experience at Prep really unveiled and helped develop certain values that I’ve held closely...determination, hard work, trying to be a man for others, having some empathy, and a ton of other values that I try to cling to every day. 14 Capt. Sean Boyle,’92 Chief of Staff, Bayonne Fire Dept.: I’ve been a fire captain for the past five years, out of 25 years working for the City of Bayonne. If Prep instilled anything in me, it was “Men for Others.” In civil service, and particularly a public safety career, it’s something has always motivated me to provide as much assistance as possible. 15 Daniel Maher, ’74 Executive Director and COO, Excess Line Association of New York (ELANY): When the author of The Exorcist, William Peter Blatty, dedicated the book to the Jesuits, he wrote, “Thank you for teaching me how to think.” I think that sums up my experience here at Prep. My years at Prep were very formative, maybe even more than I realized when I was here. 16 Deputy Chief Loren Hart, ’91 Deputy Chief of Operations, Jersey City Fire Dept.: We are a very team oriented career. We do nothing in a vacuum...The one thing that always strikes me from back when I was at Prep is that same concept of team, of giving to others, of being a man for others. Within the fire service I’m still able to employ a lot of those things I learned at Prep. 17 Joseph Danatzko, ’03 Civil Engineer, Affiliated Engineering Laboratories: It’s just this drive to serve, both in your professional capacity as well as in your community. 18 Dr. Pat Lamparello, ’69 Vascular Surgeon, NYU Langone Health/Vice Chair of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine: Saint Peter’s was critical in forming my life…I received an education and a system of values that has followed me throughout my career. I enjoy mentoring students, and I have to say they mentor me as well. 19 Rohan Singh, ’17 Investment Analyst, Silver Point Capital: One of the best parts about my Prep experience was teaching me how to be an independent individual. You’re given a lot of freedom and latitude—even just starting with the commute—so you learn how to carry yourself...in the professional world, in an interview, or a networking call, or meeting people at a conference. 20 Gabe Kitamura, ’10 Senior Manager, Global Trade Advisory, Deloitte: Prep started some of the interests I pursued in college and in my career, but beyond that it really made me who I am as a person. 21 Greg Morrissey, ’08 Founder, Mountain Goat Movement; Former Prep English Teacher: The decade of experiences and relationships with students and colleagues [while leading Prep’s outdoor education programs] basically inspired what I do now with Mountain Goat Movement. 22 Alex Diaz, ’10 Rhodes Scholar; Head of AI for Social Good, Google.org: My time at Prep helped me in three ways. There was the academic side…which created a desire and curiosity to learn that has fed me in my years beyond. Spiritually, the reflective practices I learned…have been helpful in some of the toughest and some of the best moments in my life...And then third is the network. The best asset that Saint Peter’s Prep has is its people. 23 Blake Shapskinsky, ’11 Vice President, Vantage Insurance Partners: One thing Prep has done is really build a moral background in how I operate. Contrary to what you might see in the movies, it’s really important to treat people with respect in the business world. Everything I’ve learned about being a good person...has been applicable to my career. 24 Francis Kenny, ’05 Attorney, Littler Mendelson, P.C.: I’ve dedicated my life to working in Hudson County in public service. I’m born and raised here, and always wanted to stay here and be involved with the people in my community. Prep has helped me to develop empathy and sympathy, and get to know and appreciate other people. 25 Justin Barry, ’10 COO, Epicured: Prep taught me the importance of being intellectually competent, thinking critically, and being a good leader, while also giving back to your community and looking out for others, which is why I choose to work for mission-driven organizations. 26 Det. Gabriel Galella, ’08 Detective, Secaucus Police Dept.: Branching out from Secaucus, learning from people I probably never would have met, definitely helped me grow up quicker…and gain more confidence interacting with people, which I need in my line of work.” 27 Hon. William McGovern, ’70 Judge, New Jersey Superior Court: My teachers stayed with me. I can still name them off the top of my head after 50 years. I think that’s a credit to their sacrifice and investment in us as Prep students. The rigors of the academic program prepared me very well for the intensity of the college experience…it really gave me an advantage in college and law school.

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FEATURE Since its opening in 2007, the Browning Learning Center has become a true Prep success story. With a team of learning specialists providing a structured program of academic support, the program has empowered hundreds of students to write their own Prep success stories.

Join us for a closer look at how the program helps students with documented learning differences develop the tools to thrive in Prep’s rigorous academic environment.

A Foundation for Success

by Matthew Holowienka, ’11

The bell signaling the start of the day at Grand & Warren has not yet rung. It will not ring for another 40 minutes.

Yet, on the third floor of Mulry Hall, in a well-equipped space overlooking the iconic crossroads of Prep’s campus, students are already diligently at work in a review session hosted by the Browning Learning Center.

For many young members of the Prep community, this room and this unique program have become something of a second home, “a community within the community,” the staff said—a place to study, to connect with one another, and to begin forging the life skills that will guide them toward success in university and beyond.

“The Browning Learning Center is a full-service learning center that provides academic support for neurodiverse learners, as well as students with specific learning disabilities, mental health diagnoses, and various medical conditions that can impact learning,” Browning Center Director Christine Davis, now in her eighth year at Prep, explained. A certified Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant, she is the SSD Test Coordinator for both the College Board and ACT, a member of the Admissions Committee, and a member of the Principal’s Leadership Team.

“We have students who take AP courses and honors courses. We have students go on to really rigorous colleges,

and so we’re really proud of the diversity of the program and the various learning profiles that we’re able to service,” she said. Building on the foundation established in the Browning Center, the program’s alumni have continued their education at schools including Johns Hopkins, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NJIT, and Villanova, just to name a few.

Overall, ninety-nine percent of Prep graduates enter a four-year college or university following their senior year. But in the years leading up to commencement, Davis and her staff in The Browning Center welcome students who have Individualized Education Plans (IEP or ISP), 504 plans, psycho-educational reports recommending intervention, or documentation from a neurologist indicating ADHD. “We are a unique program because there are not many private or religious-affiliated schools that support diverse learning profiles the way that we do,” Davis said. “Our students are full participants in the curriculum. We do not change, modify or alter the

curriculum. Instead, we provide appropriate support in the learning center environment.”

“This room is never empty, from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and if we were here longer, they’d stay longer,” said Learning Specialist Dominick Della Fave, ’91, who returned to Prep this year to build upon a 25-year career in special education. “And I think it shows the level of comfort and the

level of desire to be here.”

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The services offered by the Browning Center for students who qualify extend beyond the room in which it makes its headquarters—from testing accommodations like providing extra time, readers, and scribes, to providing guidance on accessing accommodations in college and beyond.

“I think our ultimate goal is for the kids to be as independent as possible and to fill their tool belts with things that they can take with them,” Della Fave said.

The building blocks that allow Prep students to grow into active, self-advocating learners, in keeping with the Browning Center’s goals to “foster independence and self-awareness,” begin when they are freshmen. In their first year in The Browning Center, Prep students attend structured 50-minute periods when they do not have classes. The first 10 minutes of each of these sessions are devoted to executive functioning organization and goal setting. The remainder of the period then allows for one-on-one time with a Learning Specialist, independent study, or small group work.

“They are required to fill out a planner, which is definitely niche in that it’s unique to what a Prep student needs. It’s not a generic planner,” Davis said, explaining that by developing strong study habits as freshmen, students can strive to maintain those habits going forward.

“I think that what we’ve fostered in this room is enabling students to understand that their ability to be ‘Open to Growth’ and learning in different ways is okay,” Della Fave said, referencing the Jesuit Schools Network’s Profile of the Graduate at Graduation. “We have a lot of students who make friends at the Browning Center, and then we also develop relationships ourselves with the students, which make them feel comfortable to come to us for help….That’s kind of the ‘Loving’ part of the ‘Grad at Grad.’”

“Some of my proudest moments are when an upperclassman will help a freshman or a sophomore,” Davis added. “They’ll jump right in, and they’ll model the behavior. That, I think, is what we’ve seen happen more and more, organic mentorship.”

“I think the Browning Center is meeting a need of students that is becoming an increasing need everywhere, and that’s something we’re really proud of,” Browning Center Academic Support Specialist and Head Lacrosse Coach Andrew Watts agreed. “At Saint Peter’s Prep, we’ve met this head on, just by our staffing level, by our space, and by the kind of people who are involved.”

And those same roots, what former principal Jim DeAngelo, ‘85 called “time, place, and people,” foundations for Browning’s success, trace themselves back to the very founding of the Center under his tenure, which began in 2007. With the encouragement of then-Prep President Rev. Robert E. Reiser, S.J., DeAngelo first began looking to other institutions with similar programs, including fellow Jesuit school St. Ignatius College Preparatory in San Francisco, to help guide Prep’s path forward.

“We dedicated a space for it. We hired a part-time Learning Specialist to be on-campus,” he said. “ It evolved from one day a week, to two days a week, to three days a week, and then, within a year or two, it became a full-time position because the need was there.”

The program flourished over the following years, and so have its students.

The Browning Center grew steadily under the leadership of its first The Browning Center staff, left to right: Andrew Watts, Christine Davis, Renato Rodrigues, ’10, and Dominick Della Fave, ’91

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learning specialist, Elizbeth Benedict, and then under the current staff as they began to step into their roles.

“When I first started we had about 30 students,” Academic Support Assistant Renato Rodrigues, ’10 said. Now in his ninth year in the Browning Center, he provides Math and Science support.

“Now we have 120 students, four full-time specialists, and two math teachers who come in and provide assistance as well. We’ve quadrupled [the number of students] in eight years,” Davis added.

Looking back to the Center’s beginnings, DeAngelo noted that input from the students and families being served was crucial in positioning Browning as a “hallmark program” of Saint Peter’s Prep, “as much a part of our school’s program as our athletic program or co-curricular program or science and math curriculum.”

“I think it is another expression of cura personalis, of care of the individual,” he explained. “And I think, with a school being able to say to a family, being able to say to students coming out of eighth grade, we accept you as someone who has the potential to succeed here,

if you need some accommodation and…some extra help, this is what we can offer. And that will open up the pathway to a Jesuit education.”

He recalled a meeting with some of those students and families in the summer of 2007. “One of the conversations was: what should we call it?

What should we call this room? I remember one of the rising seniors at the time said, ‘Well, we can just call it a learning center because that’s what we do. We’re going to learn there.’”

And with part of the name now settled, Prep then looked to a towering Jesuit whom the Center could honor.

Rev. John E. Browning, S.J., ’46 served Saint Peter’s as a teacher, a principal, a counselor, and long-time director of the Higher Achievement Program (HAP), which welcomes seventh graders to Grand & Warren each summer.

“I think one of Fr. Browning’s specialties, and especially through HAP, was always looking for the guys who…just needed extra help or were reluctant to get involved in an activity or sport,” said Director Admissions John Irvine, ’83, P’11, who has Share of a memory of Fr. Azzarto, or view memories shared by others, overseen HAP since taking it over from from Browning in 1994. “And he was always the one to kind of push thematinspprep.org/AzzartoMemories that direction.”

“I think it’s really his time as a counselor which made him the obvious choice for the naming of the Browning Center, because he was just just such a caring person,” Irvine added.

Appropriately, DeAngelo also credits Prep’s guidance counselors for their stellar work supporting students, faculty, and staff prior to the founding of the Browning Center’s more specialized offerings.

“Browning was really someone who was open to helping anyone who needed help and especially those who needed it the most,” Della Fave agreed. “So I think it’s great that we have something that is in his name that is so apropos of what he stood for. And I’m just proud to be here and proud to be in the place that’s named after him.”

Notably, Father Browning also codified Prep’s Spirit Awards, “one of our most cherished traditions,” according to Irvine. They remind us that heroes come in many different forms and that we should recognize them among us. That distinctive Prep spirit is alive and on full display in the Center that bears Browning’s name.

“Because the staff is so fully involved with different facets of Prep, we love celebrating our students and what they do outside of the classroom,” 16 WINTER SUMMER2023-24 2023 nnPREP PREP MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

FEATURE Davis explained. “Two years ago, we had a Spirit Award winner in every marking period, so we were really proud of that.”

“We have a niche for every single kid who’s in here. I think that makes it special,” Watts agreed. “I think that’s rare to find, and I think that speaks to the type of kid we have here at Prep as well: super proud and super resilient.”

That sense of Prep pride continues even beyond graduation. “The Browning Center is unique because it helps students develop a personal relationship with learning,” Gus Nations IV, ’19, a Browning Center alumnus reflected. Nations, a three-time Big East All-Academic selection with Xavier University Track, called it “a space that celebrates individuality and enriches Prep.”

The Browning Center left such a strong impression with him that he even reached out for advice on securing testing accommondations for the LSAT last year.

“I was so proud to know all these years later, Gus still knows that we can help him,” Davis said. “What impressed me most was not just

the fact that he was taking the LSAT, and he’s going to go on and become a lawyer and really change our world, but that he picked up the phone and called us first.”

That ongoing commitment to each and every student extends throughout Prep’s halls, from Browning, to faculty, to administration, and beyond.“The administration has been fully supportive of everything we’ve wanted,” Davis said. “Right down from the furniture, to the space, to the staffing. There hasn’t been a single thing that we’ve asked for that the administration has not supported, and that is what sets us apart from other schools.”

DeAngelo also noted the importance of getting “as many people on board as possible” in the creation of the Browning Center.

“Any professional development I’ve done around learning differences has actually helped me to become a better teacher for all of the students in the classroom,” he said. “And I think that’s been one of the advantages of having a learning center at Prep and really

committing to it as an institution. I think it made us better teachers.”

“There are very, very few schools that are ‘all in’ the way that Saint Peter’s Prep is ‘all in,’” Davis added. “It’s an all or nothing thing….It has to be all or nothing. Students need consistency. They need to know that they can rely on us. They need to know that we’re here. Even four years later, we’re here.”

From Browning to Buffalo: Charlie Ehlers, ’12 As with many aspects of a Prep education, the Browning Center’s impact can be felt far beyond Grand & Warren because of the academic and life lessons alumni carry with them. At Canisius High School, the Jesuit high school in Buffalo, New York, Browning Center alumnus Charlie Ehlers continues to carry the program’s mission forward as Director of the Magis Academic Program. The program offers “academic support in core subjects, including cohortbased coaching…to meet unique learning needs including the essentials of organization, time management, and study skills,” according to the school’s website.

“I truly give credit to the Browning Center,” Ehlers said. “When I was there, it was Mrs. Benedict. She was exceptional.

She really helped me a ton in terms of developing some of the things I can help these kids develop—which is organizational skills, teaching them the way to study for a test, understanding the ‘why’ and not just the ‘what.’”

Canisius’ commitment has granted the Magis program growing success in its second year. “The way that we do it is that students are assigned into cohorts, so they’re grouped with other students at their grade level,” Ehlers explained. “And each of those cohorts has a coach that they work with.” The students meet together once a week for skill-building seminars in areas like note-taking and test-taking.

“When they get together in a group and they find out their classmates are struggling with the material and can help each other figure it out, it builds confidence,” he added.

By considering each student as an individual, both the Magis Academic Program and the Browning Center thus find their foundations in Jesuit teaching. “It’s really that whole cura personalis, that Jesuit philosophy of developing the whole student,” Ehlers said. “And that’s kind of what the goal has been since we started.”

And like Prep’s program, the Magis Academic Program involves ongoing “relationship-building, helping students understand what it is to be a student at a Jesuit high school,” according to Ehlers.

“The fact that Saint Peter’s had resources there to help me…I know that for my parents, that was a huge piece of the decision-making for them because they knew I would get that support,” he added. “I hope that what we’ve developed at Canisius is the same tool for parents as they’re making that decision, that they’re going to have that extra layer of support that they might not necessarily get at other private schools.”

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Kitty McNally and with seniors from her Horror and Supernatural Literature class

WOMAN FOR OTHERS:

Kitty McNally

by Trish Fitzpatrick, P’07,’16 Despite a family tree that includes two Jersey City mayors—the legendary Frank Hague and his successor and nephew Frank Hague Eggers—Alice “Kitty” McNally never spent much time in Hudson County until she was an adult. Instead her early days were spent in a town that has its own place in Prep history: Sea Bright, host to the first 25 years of Emmaus retreats. Following graduation from Rumson-Fair Haven High School, she headed north to the College of Saint Elizabeth, where both her mother and grandmother were alumnae.

Kitty’s first career aspiration was journalism, and she majored in English and history. After college, her father’s illness prompted a return to the shore, and stints as an ocean lifeguard, then as a bartender at Tim McLoone’s Rum Runner, and, after taking the LSATs, as a paralegal.

But while she loved the law, she found didn’t love an office setting.

A serendipitous meeting with a college friend, who handed her an application to Columbia University, set her on a path to Teachers College—after a memorable cross-country road trip in a VW Fox to visit her beloved brother on the West Coast.

In grad school, she met her best friend, Margaret Gonzalez. “Everything I have in my life now is because of Margaret,” Kitty reflects. Following a trying student-teaching assignment, at a “dangerous New York school, where most of the teachers hated the kids,” she worked at the LAB school and then at Brookdale Community College, back in New Jersey. By now it was clear: she definitely wanted to teach high school students.

Margaret, meanwhile, had been placed at Xavier High School. Kitty would join her there in 1994, a decision she says, “set the course of my life.”

It was during this time that Kitty first landed in Jersey City, living here with her daughter Maeve and her mother Alice while commuting to Xavier. Kitty says she “could not overstate” the impact of the time Maeve spent with Alice in those formative years. Her mother “was my hero, and the kindest person I have ever known, and she had a beautiful relationship with God,” she said.

The first assignment at Xavier was to teach five sections of freshmen; she and Margaret were two of only six women on staff. Xavier was a familiar place in ways—family members had married in the parish there.

Kitty recalls the first Mass she attended with her students: “I cried…I saw this as the true beginning of my faith life.” As she matured into her teaching style, she cited a few rules she established: run a tight ship, be approachable, focus on relationships, and be especially attentive to the student athletes, who face an extra set of challenges and responsibilities.

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Toughness and humor, both built upon a deep love for the students, are the hallmark of this wonderful educator. She has been known to tell a dozing student, “Go to your local public school and take a nap!”

Kitty arrived at Saint Peter’s Prep in the fall of 2007, and has been a staple of the English Department ever since. An early mentor was Prep Legend Dr. Rich Kennedy. Not only did he help her find an apartment right on Kennedy Boulevard, but he provided her with both inspiration and true friendship. Today, she teaches juniors and seniors, and has created many interesting electives, including Literature of New York and, new for this year, Horror and Supernatural. A highlight of the latter was a recent assignment to rewrite The Silence of the Lambs as a folk tale.

She extols the importance of “viewing the material through the lens of a young man, and trying to be as engaging as possible.”

Sam Mompoint, ‘13, cites Kitty as a person who helped him immeasurably both at Prep and beyond. “She was a mother figure to me and I will appreciate that forever,” he says. “I’m proud to call her my friend today.”

As much as Kitty has influenced legions of students, she prefers to talk about the Jesuits who’ve meant a great deal to her. She mentions Vincent Taylor, S.J., at Xavier, Ken Boller, S.J., at both Xavier and Prep, and the ever-gentle Jim Dineen, S.J., whose faculty/staff Christian Life Community was legendary (“a Christ-like figure with a profound love affair with his faith”),and Tony Azzarto, S.J., “who touched so many, but always remembered to ask about Maeve or my brother.” She has also found much joy in her years-long friendship with Bob O’Hare, S.J.—a former Xavier colleague who joined her at Prep in 2009.

She’s now lived in New York for more time than she lived in New Jersey, but she remains a passionate Jersey Shore devotee, lover of Bruce Springsteen, and one of the most impactful women at Prep. You can always count on Kitty for honesty, grit, humor, and deep dedication to her students. “The Jesuit mission has to be the central nervous system of a Jesuit school—it is not optional! If you don’t have

cura personalis as the school mission, the heart of the school cannot beat.”

SPORTS

Goalkeeeper Simon Yanez finished his Prep career with a 0.98 goals against average and 25 shutouts.

PHOTO: Ignacio Marro, ’25

Andy Mayorga (14), John Carey (6), and Philip Sayouwoh (10) celebrated Sayouwoh’s first of two goals in the county final vs. Kearny.

soccer//Prep Soccer put together another outstanding season, finishing with a 17-4 record and the #9 state ranking. Highlights included

a 1-0 OT win over Kearny, a 3-0 win over state-ranked Robbinsville and a 1-0 County semi-final victory over Harrison. In the Hudson County Final— played at Red Bull Arena—4,000 fans were treated to an exciting, well-played match. Prep prevailed 2-1 over Kearny, adding the Tournament Championship to its HCIAL Regular Season title.

Eight Marauders received All State recognition—the most in program history. Junior Matt Sobreiro (15G, 12A) was the Hudson County Player of the Year as well as an Eastern Region All-American. Senior goalkeeper Simon Yanez (10 shutouts) was selected as one of the top two goalies in New Jersey. Freshman sensation Philip Sayouwoh (13G, 5A) made first-team All State.

cross country//Consistent

success brings high expectations and increased pressure. Prep’s distance runners obviously know how to handle both, as they added a number of championships to the collection of trophies and medals amassed over the past several years. Prep brought home both the Jersey City (8th in a row) and Hudson County (7th in a row) Championships while also qualifying for the Meet of Champions for the sixth time in school history. After starting the season unranked, the Marauders finished as the #8 team in New Jersey.

Tommy O’Brien earned Hudson County Athlete of the Year honors, while Head Coach Russell Jenkins (inset, flanked by Asssitant Coaches Remi Pastorek and Will Springer, ’15) was Hudson County Coach of the Year.

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SPORTS

Coach Jantas celebrated his record-breaking win with the team, his staff, and his predecessor, John Irvine.

Josh Jantas, ’95 Becomes Soccer’s Winningest Coach On a beautiful September afternoon at Caven Point, the Marauders lined up for their game against Hudson Catholic. With Athletic Director Rich Hansen, former Head Coach John Irvine, ‘83 and a local reporter on the sideline, there was a feeling that this match had more relevance than an early season game normally would.

Prep fell behind 2-0, but rallied in the second half for a 3-2 victory. The hugs, handshakes and celebrating were further proof that this was not just any regular-season victory. With that win—the 218th in his Prep career—Coach Josh Jantas surpassed his coach and predecessor, John Irvine, for most wins in the program’s history.

Jantas, who has now completed his fifteenth season at the program’s helm, spent five seasons on Irvine’s staff before taking the head coaching position at Secaucus HS. He returned after five seasons to replace Irvine as Head Coach. He commented, “I have always said this is my last head coaching job. Prep soccer has been so special to me and, actually, my entire family.” Jantas’s win total is now 229 and includes five league titles and four county championships.

Rich Hansen reflected, “I am so proud of Josh. He’s adjusted his coaching style over the years to fit today’s athlete. His accomplishment doesn’t just speak to longevity. He’s adapted and has had success throughout. He cares about his players and has a true passion for our program. “ When asked about his former captain passing his win total, Irvine said, “I could not be prouder. It is like seeing a younger brother do it and it keeps the record in our Prep family.” Jantas added, “I am proud to say that between John and me, there are 34 years of Prep coaching and close to 450 wins. That’s amazing!”

Coach Jantas addressed the team before the HCIAL semifinal vs.

Harrison. A 1-0 win would put Prep back in the county final for the first time since 2018.

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SPORTS

football//Competing in arguably the nation’s toughest

conference took its toll on the Marauders as they battled through a 1-9 season. The team opened the year with consecutive games out-ofstate. Prep took on Creekside HS (GA) in a game played at Morehouse College and then faced St. Joe’s Prep (PA) at a site in Delaware. In a rare scheduling occurrence, the team had only two home games.

Senior linemen Cooper LaFond and Joseph Asiain were named to the Super Football Conference All Division First Team and were also recognized by the New Jersey Football Coaches Association in its Super 100 selections.

Cooper LaFond (#71) and Joseph Asiain (#99) will continue their football careers at Fordham and Stanford respectively.

water polo//With the graduation of several major

PHOTO: Anson Hart, ’24

players, Coach Pat McCoy knew that his younger players would need to contribute right away while working alongside the players who had experience. Coach McCoy turned the focus to developing a tight defense, forcing opponents to work hard for goals. Goalie Evan Merkov, ’24 anchored that stingy defense, making 183 saves over the twelvegame season.

Highlights of the season included wins over Riverdale Country Day (197, 18-8) and an 8-5 result against Blair Academy.

Senior captain Nick Valente totaled 40 goals, nine of which came in a single game.

crew//Prep’s rowers are coming off another successful fall season. At the Head of the Passaic in Lyndhurst, the Marauders earned a bronze in the Men’s JV 8+ and Freshman 8+ categories. At the Overpeck Fall Invitational in Leonia, the JV4+ also earned a bronze. To close off the season the Freshman 8+ had an impressive gold medal finish at the NYRA Junior Invitation in Ridgefield, NJ. At the season’s most prestigious event, Head of the Charles in Boston, the Marauder Varsity 8+ (pictured) faced competition from all over the world in a field of 90 boats. The result was 19th out of all high schools and 6th among Jesuit schools.

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ALUMNI Michael Noriega, ’95 Joins New Jersey’s Highest Court

Last May, Governor Phil Murphy nominated Michael Noriega, ’95 to serve as an associate justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court. Following his unanimous (37-0) confirmation by the State Senate on June 30, Justice Noriega was sworn in on July 6, 2023. Born in Weehawken and raised in Union City, Justice Noriega served as an Emmaus Team member and co-captain of the Forensics team while at Prep. He graduated from Rutgers University in 1999 and from Seton Hall Law School in 2002.

Justice Noriega was most recently a partner at the firm of Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold, and Magnan, specializing in immigration and criminal law. He previously operated a solo practice (Noriega & Associates) for six years, and began his legal career as an assistant public defender in Essex County. Notably, he is the first ever former public defender to serve on the New Jersey Supreme Court. He has also taught at Seton Hall Law as an adjunct professor, chaired the immigration law section of the New Jersey State Bar Association. The New Jersey State Bar association named him Professional Lawyer of the Year in 2019. In introducing him as a nominee last year, Gov. Murphy also noted his extensive pro bono work—including advocating for victims of human trafficking who face deportation, and serving as board president of Sanar Wellness Institute, a Newark nonprofit helping victims of trafficking and domestic abuse.

A fellow Prep alumnus in the legal profession, Greg Riley, ’67, shared the photo at right. Greg attended a Union County Bar Association event in November, honoring Justice Noriega on his appointment, and the pair found a few moments to share Prep memories from their respective eras.

Loyola School Names Jim DeAngelo, ’85 as Next Principal In December, Loyola School announced that Jim DeAngelo, ’85 would become the next principal of the co-educational Jesuit high school on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Jim served as Prep’s principal from 2007-2022, following more than a decade as a member of Prep’s faculty. In an introductory message, Loyola president Tony Oroszlany noted, “In considering who the next Principal of Loyola School should be, we recognized the importance of selecting a candidate well-grounded in the Ignatian tradition and possesses a deep understanding of Jesuit secondary education. Mr. DeAngelo clearly demonstrated those characteristics and many wonderful professional traits.” Jim will begin his service at Loyola on July 1.

Jim Hannan, ’56: From Prep to the Big Leagues and Beyond Jim Hannan, ’56, a member of the inaugural class of Prep Athletic Hall of Fame honorees in 2005, died in February at age 84. An impressive pitching career at Prep, including multiple 13-strikeout starts, propelled him to Notre Dame—where the Irish would reach the College World Series in his freshman year, and the regional finals in his next three—and ultimately into professional baseball. The Jersey City native signed a bonus contract with the Red Sox for the 1961 season, posting a 17-7 record for the Class D Olean Red Sox. His 254 strikeouts in 196 innings pitched led the New York-Penn League, and he was named the league’s rookie of the year.

After the Washington Senators selected him in the first-year-player draft, Hannan made his major league debut with Washington in 1962, and would go on to spend all or part of the next ten seasons in the majors, in a mix of starting and relieving roles. His rookie year included a 23 1/3-inning scoreless streak as a reliever. Other memorable moments included a 1968 start in which he surrendered 3 runs in the first inning before retiring 26 Cleveland batters in a row for a 9-3 complete game victory. He would pitch a one-hitter against the Kansas City Royals in August of 1970, a fifth-inning triple by Paul Schaal the only thing keeping him from joining the ranks of pitchers with a no-hitter to their credit.

Hannan would make his mark in baseball away from the mound as well. In the midst of his career, he supplemented his economics degree from Notre Dame with a graduate degree in finance and investments from NYU. His master’s thesis, exploring the challengess of MLB’s pension system (at the time, only three in ten MLB players logged enough service to collect a pension), would influence the strategy of the MLB Players’ Association and its executive director, Marvin Miller, in negotiating reforms to the system.

In 1982, Hannan became a co-founder of the Major League Baseball Players’ Alumni Association. He served as the organization’s first president from 1982-86, and as chair of its board from 1996 until his death. His advocacy for former players, and for the potential of baseball to positively impact its communities, ensured the continued growth of the MLBPAA for more than 40 years. In his honor, the association established an annual Jim Hannen Scholarship Award, which has supported students at Notre Dame as well as at Prep.

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PHOTO: Reena Rose Sibayan / Copyright © The Jersey Journal

ALUMNI

Jersey City Honors Gen. Edward Daly, ’83 As one of just 243 U.S. Army officers to attain the rank of four-star general since 1775, General Edward Daly, ’83 has received his share of honors.

During a 37-year career prior to his retirement last year, he earned two Bronze Stars, a Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Combat Action Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. Then, of course, there is his 2021 Prep Hall of Fame induction. But this winter, his hometown of Jersey City added one more. In a ceremony on February 22, the block of Terhune Avenue where Daly grew up was rededicated as Gen. Edward Daly Way. Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, Ward A Councilwoman Denise Ridley, and numerous family and friends were on hand as the new street sign was unveiled. Jersey City’s—and Prep’s—first four-star general reflected on the moment with typical humility. “I am unbelievably honored,” Daly said during the ceremony. He explained that the people who surrounded him in his Jersey City youth, “really molded me and really developed my character, my values, and my work ethic.” Although life has taken him from Terhune Avenue, to Prep, to West Point—and onward to places like South Korea, Germany, Afghanistan, and Iraq—he added, “I have been, I am, and I always will be Jersey City in my heart and spirit.”

A Marauder Behind the Scenes Mike Brown, ’05 resides in Venice Beach, California, and works in Hollywood as an assistant director with Disney. He has worked on a range of projects including Blackish,Grownish, NASCAR on ESPN, and the Emmy award winning I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson. Mike explains the AD role involves planning and executing all technical preparations, “so that the set is under budget and performing.” This work includes scheduling the day, getting the actors ready to work, hiring and controlling the background actors, and making sure the crew on set is functioning to maximum capacity, “all so that the director can have creative freedom.”

Mike notes his fast-paced career in the entertainment world is “A long way from growing up in Newark and attending Saint Peter’s Prep,” but lessons learned at Grand & Warren are an invaluable asset to him. “Attending Prep has given me an advantage in learning to deal with different types of people and to meet them where they are to make the process of production seamless.” He added, “The combination of community, sports, and education from Prep makes it possible to thrive in any scenario.”

Mike invites classmates and West Coast alumni to get in touch: mab4vu@virginia.edu

Educational Affinity Group Leads the Way Prep’s Alumni Board has embarked on an effort to bring together alumni (and others in the Prep community) who work in similar professions for learning and networking opportunities. The first of these professional affinity groups debuted in 2023, and the Educational Affinity Group is off to a successful start. Last summer, online sign-ups and word-of-mouth-contacts led to the creation of an email list, a shared document where participants can leave their contact information and a description of their role in education, and a virtual planning meeting in August. In September, keynote speaker Billy Cunningham, '97 anchored an in-person kickoff event. About 30 alumni and family members attended the gathering, which included a welcome address by Prep President Michael Gomez, Ed.D., ’91.

In February, the group hosted a webinar highlighting professionals working “Beyond the Classroom Walls” in various positions and non-traditional education roles. Panelists included Robyn Ince, P’19, Executive Director for Newark City of Learning Collaborative at Rutgers University; Greg Morrisey, ‘08, Founder and Head of Programming for Mountain Goat Movement; Matt Whitford, ‘07, School Business Administrator, Weehawken Public Schools; Dr. Robert Zywicki, ‘96, Senior Director for Strategic Learning Solutions Engineering for Renaissance Learning, and Dr. Courtney Pepe, Director of Educational and Operational Technology for Perth Amboy Public Schools (and wife of Joseph Pepe, ‘79).

For more information about the Educational Affinity Group—or if you are interested in helping us build more professional affinity groups—please contact Mike Murcia, ’08 at MurciaM@spprep.org.

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ALUMNI

CLASS NOTES

Share your photos, class notes and other news with us...Email info@spprep.org!

The ’40s Rev. Earle Markey, S.J., ’49 retired from his role as Associate Director of Admissions, Jesuit Relations, at the College of the Holy Cross, which he had held since 1996. He had previously served as Associate Dean of Students, Dean of Students, and then Vice President of Student Affairs, starting in 1976. Fr. Markey is a former Prep principal (1971-76), a former Prep trustee, and an inaugural (1993) Legends of Prep inductee.

He continues to be a member of the Holy Cross Jesuit Community.

The ’50s Dave Schreck, ’53 sends his regrets for missing the 70th reunion for the Class of ‘53, due to a scheduling conflict. After law school at UC Berkeley, Dave served as a state’s attorney in the counties along the California coast—”Nice work if you can get it!”—He later served as an administrative law judge in the state’s San Francisco office of appeals.

Dave also served 32 years of active and active-reserve duty in the U.S. Army, in the infantry and JAG branches, retiring with the rank of colonel.

He and his wife of 58 years, Daly, live in Marin County, California.

Bob Esti, ’55 reports that, having been a “Snow Bird” for the last 25 years, “Valerie, my ‘Mussels Marinara’ and I have decided to be full time Floridians. Traveling back and forth [between Virginia and Florida] each spring fall was becoming more challenging as my 86 year old body was screaming at me to stop!”

Bob concedes, “The pizza is not the same as NJ and the history is not as interesting as Virginia, but the weather and climate are fantastic for my poor old bones and bad back!” He sends “Many cheers and prayers to all my fellow alumni,” adding “If you are in the Naples-Fort Myers area, give us a shout and we will welcome you with a drink and sunshine along side our saltwater pool and hole #14 on our golf course... God bless you all & amore a tutti!”

James McKeever, ’56 completed his 43rd year as a New Jersey Law Enforcement Torch Run volunteer. He co-founded the torch run,

supporting the Special Olympics, in 1983, and was elected to the International Hall of Fame for the Special Olympics in 2010. “NJ Special Olympics is my passion!” he writes.

The ’60s Jim Donohue, ’61 retired as professor and division chief in pulmonary critical care at the University of North Carolina, and moved to Wrightsville Beach. Jim is still active as chairman of ten data safety monitoring committees for new pharmaceuticals.

Bill Keller, ’63 has published a second book of colorful stories and essays about his hometown, with a larger-than-life title to suit the larger-than-life characters they contain: A Hoboken Gallimaufry: Five Novellas, Four Essays, Three Poems, Two Short Stories, and One Fable.

Both Hoboken Gallimaufry and Bill’s previous book, A Place Like Hoboken, are available on Amazon.

Jack Russell, ’66 was featured on the cover of the alumni magazine of Saint Michael’s College, where he is a member of the class of 1970.The accompanying profile notes his success in business (with nine real estate offices and a pet supplement manufacturing company, among other ventures) combined with a commitment to service—including as honorary wing commander for the Vermont National Guard Honorary Commanders.

Greg Riley, ’67, now retired following a 47-year legal career, spends his newfound spare time pursuing his hobby in photography, and making frequent trips to Portland, Maine, to visit his daughter and two granddaughters.

Rev. Bill Watters, S.J., ’52 will step down as president of the Loyola School in Baltimore this year. Fr. Watters, who founded the school in 2017, will become President Emeritus. The tuition-free Loyola School offers a preschool program for children as young as 2, and an elementary school that currently covers grades K-2, with planned expansion to grades 3 and 4.

TLS is the third school Fr. Watters, a 2021 Prep Hall of Fame honoree, has established to serve low-income students and families in Baltimore. He is also the founder of Baltimore’s Cristo Rey Jesuit High School (2007) and a tuition-free middle school, St. Ignatius Loyla Academy (1993)—a 30-year legacy of redefining Catholic education in the city!

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SECTION ALUMNI The ’70s

Loren Hart, ’91 was promoted in November 2022 to Deputy Chief in the Jersey City Fire Department.

Tom Chiccone, ’70 retired from the emergency department in 2019.

He continues to work for EMS at the local and state levels in Maryland.

He reports he has a new hobby: pyrogaphy (wood burning), and that he’s “loving life and wife.”

Rev. Alex Santora, ’70 recently marked 25 years of writing his weekly “Faith Matters” column for the Jersey Journal and nj.com.

Sig Grudzinski, ’73 has been taking his 1985 Corvette to car shows after completing a thorough restoration. He bought the car new in 1985, and last summer saw the restoration professionally judged for the first time. Sig says he was “pleasantly surprised” to take 2nd place in the C1-C4 Corvette category in that first competition.

Steve Smith, ’73 writes: The 50th class reunion reminded me that Prep is a living symbol of my parents’ love and sacrifice for me. Each time I return to Prep, I feel the love my parents gave me to attend this living institution.

Paul Florio, ’74 is enjoying every moment of retired life. He offers this “word to the wise”for those close to retirement: “Hope you have hobbies other than a 401(k)!”

David Baker, ’93 lives in the Bay Area of California with his wife, Emily, and daughter, Sophia. They enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the California coast.

After 10 years designing analog semiconductors and 14 years teaching high school math, he has started an online tutoring business called High School Math Engine.

Michael Sugrue, ’94 joined Alvarez & Marsal as a partner in their Disputes & Investigations practice group. A&M is a 8,500 person consultancy with 77 offices around the globe. His practice focuses on digital forensic investigations (e.g., trade secret theft), complex eDiscovery and cyber breach response.

Ed Mullins, ’98 recently joined the New Jersey Economic Development Authority as Assistant Director of Legal Affairs.

The ’00s John Laracy, ’03 is an Assistant Professor at the Seton Hall University School of Theology.

The ’10s Griffin Gudaitis, ’18, a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross, is now a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) student in English (650-1550) at Linacre College, Oxford University. He specializes in medieval English literature, and hopes to write a dissertation that focuses on the nature of trick and craft in the Exeter Book Riddles.

Mike Gadaleta, ’75 and his wife Lynne have been “blessed with six grandsons in a row, and counting!”

Tim Konopka, ’76 and his wife Annette celebrated the birth of their second grandchild, Victoria Alexandra Munda, on September 2.

Tim is currently serving as a senior federal investigator with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), enforcing the Fair Housing Act against housing discrimination.

Gregory McLain, ’77 and wife Carolyn welcomed their second grandchild. Kit Micha joins 3-year-old brother Guy Maverick.

Anthony Petrosino, ’79 completes his fifth year as associate dean at Southern Methodist University’s College of Education.

The ’80s John Hester, ’88 welcomed grandson August Anthony. August is the son of John’s daughter Katie.

The ’90s Mike Egan, ’91 is celebrating the 2-year anniversary of his restaurant and bar, Baker Street Irregulars (irregularsny.com • @irregularsnyc).

He invites you to stop in for a pint and a burger next time you’re on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. You’ll find BSI at 63rd Street and First Avenue.

“I want specifically to give a shoutout to my Latin teacher, Mr. Dave Burokas, ’85, for vitalizing my interest in languagelearning,” Griffin writes. “He challenged every notion I held about language, literature, and religion.” Griffin added, “Without Latin, I would never have become prepared enough for the kind of rigor that Oxford demands.”

Griffin is pictured here at his matriculation ceremony, wearing the traditional sub-fusc worn by Oxford students on formal occasions.

The ’20s Rodolfo Sanchez, ’21 set a school record in the 3,000 meters as a sophomore at Fordham University.

Rafael Ferrales, ’91 was named Managing Director and national leader of Weaver’s Fixed Asset Advisory tax practice in September 2023.

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ALUMNI

CLASS NOTES RIGHT: Members of the class of ’92 gathered to celebrate the 50th birthday of classmate Mike Benoit. Left to right: Mike Cardino, Matt Fleming, Mike Benoit, Mark DeCastro, John Aslainian, Trevor Philips, and Christian Bontigao.

ABOVE: Prep alumni are always “In Good Company,” even on challenging occasions. A funeral repast for Jim Muller, ’53 brought this group together. Left to right: Owen Freeman, ’17, Brian Muller, ’16 (Jim’s grandson), Jack Cassedy, ’48, Ian Maxwell, ’14, Alec Maxwell, ’16, Tucker Freeman, ’14, Finn Freeman, ’24, and Gavin Freeman, ’18.

LEFT: During a trip to the West Coast this winter, Prep President Michael Gomez, Ed.D., ’91 met Keith Webster, ’82.

RIGHT: On the same trip, Prep Director of Engagement Kate Lillis-Magnus shared a meal with Tom Murphy, ’69.

LEFT: A few phone calls, a few texts, and an ad hoc Prep mini-reunion came together in Santa Monica, California. Left to right: Prep Director of Engagement Kate LillisMagnus, Mike Brown, ’05, Sean Hanley, ’94, Nick Warnock, ’94, Ian Fraser, ’94, Prep President Michael Gomez, Ed.D., ’91, Rashawn Jackson, ’05, Dennis Granelli, ’91, Liam O’Brien, ’94, Tom Fitzpatrick, ’07, An Le, ’94, and Alex Drummond, ’94.

During a visit to Seattle in February, Prep VP for Planning and Principal Giving Jim Horan, ’70 (right) caught up with Mark Ippolito,’79.

ABOVE: A holiday gathering of the Class of ’92 at Court Street in Hoboken. Standing, left to right, are Sean Boyle, Jeff McCollough, Chris Bontigao, Mike Cardino, Frank LoScrudato, Pat Healey, Dave Weir, Rob Valente, Mike Benoit, and John Aslainian.

Sitting, left to right, are Gene Manlongat, Terence McHale, and Mark DeCastro.

Bret Jablonski, ’14, Mark Napier, ’11, Eric Jablonski, ’11, Bob Zeller, ’76, and Frank Romano, ’86 posed together at the October wedding of Eric Jablonski and Stephanie Rescigno.

RIGHT: Representing Prep at the July 2023 wedding of Caitlin McGarrity and Craig Styles, ’09 were: Tom Cianci, ’09, Brendan Canale, ’09, Pat Egan, ’09, Craig Styles, ’09, Bobby McFarland, ’09, and Kevin Styles, ’05.

26 WINTER 2023-24 n PREP MAGAZINE

ALUMNI Welcome to In Focus, a new feature highlighting alumni you might not know by name—but probably should!—as introduced by Prep alumni director Mike Murcia.

IN FOCUS:

Liam O’Brien, ’94

by Mike Murcia, ’08 narratives filled with humor, plot twists, Before Weehawken native Liam O’Brien was excitement, and emotion. Liam’s storytelling a renowned voice actor, web series creator, prowess is on full display.

Twitch streamer, and philanthropist, he left Critical Role has been hailed for the genuine his mark at Grand & Warren. Open the 1994 camaraderie and chemistry among its cast yearbook and you’ll notice he was destined for members, who use their characterization and his work: Dramatics MVP, Forensics, Emmaus improvisation skills to bring their characters Team, and Paper & Pen, just to name a few highlights. Thirty years later, that work has to life. As listeners follow their journey, they evolved in remarkable ways to contributions in become fully immersed in a rich and vibrant Hollywood and beyond. universe. What makes the podcast even more special is its community—fans from all As a voice actor, Liam is often celebrated for walks of life who come together to celebrate his incredible versatility and talent in bringing their shared love of storytelling, breaking all characters to life. With a career spanning over boundaries of geography and language. two decades, Liam has lent his voice to the world of animation, video games, streaming, and beyond. His portfolio boasts an impressive array of characters in the worlds of Star Wars, Transformers, World of Warcraft, Naruto, and the Marvel Universe across multiple media.

He is also one of the founding members of Critical Role, a popular web and podcast series where a talented cast of voice actors play Dungeons & Dragons. In each episode, the cast embarks on epic adventures, weaving

Photos courtesy Liam O’Brien

The cast of Critical Role

Beyond his contributions to the entertainment industry, Liam lives out the Jesuit tradition of being a man for others through the charity work done by Critical Role. The podcast has not only become synonymous with epic storytelling but with acts of kindness and generosity through its philanthropy. One of the clearest examples of this is the development of the Critical Role Foundation, which has raised over $2 million since its launch in 2020. These funds support various causes and organizations dedicated to mental health awareness, environmental conservation, disaster relief, and LGBTQ+ rights. Their support of organizations like Hope for Haiti, Women for Afghan Women, First Nations Development Institute, and World Central Kitchen demonstrates a passion for serving communities across the globe.

Liam and the Critical Role cast members often

participate in charity live-streamed events, auctions, and special merchandise releases to raise funds for the causes they support. In times of crisis, Liam and his team have stepped up to provide aid. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Critical Role offered charity streams to raise funds for frontline workers, medical supplies, and resources to combat the pandemic’s spread.

Through their philanthropy and service to others, Liam and his team inspire fans to make a difference in the world. By combining their love for storytelling and service, Critical Role demonstrates the impact a community can make when united for a common cause. The foundation’s mission statement explains their work perfectly: “Our mission is simple: To leave the world better than we found it.”

Although he has settled from far his roots in Weehawken and 144 Grand Street, Liam’s success and service are key examples of seeking the Magis and remaining committed to doing justice no matter where life takes you. Reflecting on his thirty-year-long path, Liam said, “Looking back over the decades, it is fairly easy to see the effect Prep had on the trajectory of my life. I found my passion for arts and literature performing within its halls, and with the encouragement and guidance of some truly excellent teachers, a life in those fields seemed possible. Additionally, the principles Saint Peter’s works so hard to instill, as well as the focus on community, are torches I still carry with me today.”

PREP MAGAZINE n SPPREP.ORG n WINTER 2023-24 27

ALUMNI

VITA MUTATUR NON TOLLITUR (LIFE IS CHANGED, NOT ENDED) Through February 20, 2024

Alumni

John J. Verdon, Jr., ’57 Son of John J. Verdon, Sr., 1922†

James J. O’Connor, ’40

Arthur A. Trott, Jr., ’58

Edward P. Kozmor, ’51 Brother of James Kozmor, ’58.

Anthony S. Neusch, ’58

Lawrence P. King, ’52

John C. Heidelberger, ’59 Brother of William Heidelberger, ’50†

Joseph G. Weiss, ’52

Perry Iannaconi, ’60

Franz P. Scheuermann, ’53 Brother of Gregory Scheuermann, ’50

John A. Kirkowski, ’61

Thomas M. Gaggin, Sr., ’53 Cousin of Raymond V. Downes, ’50†, Patrcik J. Downes, ’57, and Robert E. Downes, ’59 John J. Marano, ’53 2010 Athletic Hall of Fame honoree James H. Muller, ’53 Grandfather of Brian T. Muller, ’16 Thomas J. Sullivan, ’53 Father of T.J. Sullivan, ’53†, brother of Rev. James Sullivan, ’50†; grandfather of John King, ’14; Prep Trustee, 1989-1999; Chairman of the Board of Trustees, 1992-1999; 1999 Legends of Prep honoree

Richard J. Diehl, ’63 Brother of Robert Diehl, ’67 Richard Dunne, ’63 Son of James J. Dunne, 1926†; brother of James M. Dunne, ’60 and John D. Dunne, ’70; nephew of Mary Dunne†(former Prep staff member) Edward Powers, ’66 Thomas J. Viggiano, ’66 Brother of Frederick A. Viggiano, ’63 and John F. Viggiano, ’70 Walter P. Ryglicki, ’67 Brother of Joseph Ryglicki, ’64†; uncle of Jonathan Ryglicki, ’99 and Jason Ryglicki, ’04

James J. Connolly, Jr., ’54 Son of James J. Connolly, Sr., 1927†; brother Robert Connolly, ’55†, Walter Connolly, ’56†, and David Connolly, ’58; uncle of Christopher Connolly, ’91

Robert A. Martelli, ’68

Arthur J. Hedge, Jr., ’54

Anthony P. Costantino, Jr., ’69

Robert J. Orzack ’54 James P. Cashman, ’55

Jacek M. Herchold, ’69 Brother of Christopher Herchold, ’66†, Kazimierz Herchold, ’64, and Adam Herchold, ’71

Thomas R. Keating, ’55

Stephen E. Siwek, ’69

John R. Sullivan, ’55

Peter W. Bolan, ’72

James J. Hannan, ’56 Cousin of John Clune, ’50 and Edward Clune, ’54; 2005 Athletic Hall of Fame honoree

Mark E. Morchel, ’72

Anthony J. Acinapura, ’55

Thomas A. Hogan, ’56 Brother of John Hogan, ’57; uncle of Michael Hogan, ’92 Philip A. Cole, ’57 Cousin of William A. Wiemer, ’61 Martin P. Daly, ’57 Francis P. Piscal, ’57 brother-in-law of Robert O’Brien, ’44† and William O’Brien, ’48†; cousin-in-law of John O’Brien, ’48† 2007 Athletic Hall of Fame honoree William J. Spataro, ’57 Father of Matthew Spataro, ’96 and Thomas Spataro, ’97

Patrick J. Ryan, ’68 Nicholas Fusco, ’69 Joseph F. “Jay” Brower III, ’69

John P. Riepe, ’72 Robert J. Simko, ’72 Brother of John Simko, ’74; uncle of Lucas Simko-Bednarski, ’06.

Kenneth R. Dunbar, ’75 James E. Addas ’78 Brother of Raymond Addas, Jr., ’76†; uncle of Raymond L. Addas, III, ’00 and Anthony Addas, ’07 James O. Cox, ’87 Samuel J. Mason, Jr., ’88 Gregory D. McLellan, ’92 Daniel P. Bleach, ’95 Michael Heredia, ’09 Brother of Joseph Heredia, ’04

Family of Alumni Antonia B. Bello Sister of Vincent Bello, ’21 Andre Braugher Father of Michael Braugher, ’10 James “Jamie” Carbone Father of Dominick Carbone, ’03 Merlita “Toni” Cano Mother of Dalton Walker, ’17 and Robbie Walker, ’20 James V. Cerullo, Jr. Father of Brian Cerullo, ’93 Ann DeMaria Mother of John DeMaria, ’77; mother-in-law of John J. Hughes, ’63†; grandmother of John C. Hughes, ’88 and Matthew Moran, ’99 Rosemarie Dobronsky Mother of Richard Dobronski, ’83; grandmother of Matthew Dobronski, ’21 Rufino Q. Faller Father of Michael Faller, ’93 Kathleen Anne Filak Sister of Andrew Filak, Jr., ’70, Michael Filak, ’72, Douglas Filak, ’79, and Ronald Filak, ’84; cousin of Gary Filak, ’71, Thomas Calvanico, ’73, Robert Calvanico, ’74, and George Filak, ’76 George Groesbeck Brother of Robert Groesbeck, ’57 Marilyn Hannon Wife of Edward Hannon, ’58 Rev. William Holt, O.P. Brother of Michael Holt, ’74, P’04,’09; brother-in-law of Francis McGurk, ’61; uncle of Jason McGurk, ’96, Michael Holt, ’99, David Holt, ’00, Scott Holt, ’04 and Eric Holt, ’09; cousin of John Lillis, ’77, Bill Lillis, ’80 (former faculty member), Kate Lillis-Magnus (Prep Director of Engagement), Charles Iorio, ’90, Nicholas Degnan, ’97, Gerry Iorio, ’98, Alexander Degnan, ’00, Ryan Lillis ’14, and Nicholas DeMarco, ’19 Marie Hudik Mother of Christopher S. Hudik, ’81 and Stephen J. Hudik, ’85 Nancy Klarmann Mother of Matthew Klarmann, ’95 (former faculty member)

Marie LePage Grandmother of Joseph Casazza, ’95 and Christopher Casazza, ’97 (former chief advancement officer); mother of Diane Casazza (former admissions staff member) Margaret E. Magaldi Mother-in-law of John T.M. Chester, ’74; grandmother of Timothy Chester, ’03 and Kevin Chester, ’05 Barbara Martin-Hart Mother of Loren Hart, ’91; grandmother of Ian Garner, ’11 and Anson Hart, ’24 Mary Materek Mother of Anthony Materek, ’70 Maureen T. McKenna Mother of Brian McKenna, ’98 Patricia Morris Mother of James Morris, ’80 and Kevin Morris, ’86† Nora Nasif Wife of Louis Nasif, ’62†; sister-in-law of Alfred Nasif, ’56 Margaret M. Nisbet Mother of Richard J. Nisbet, ’86 and Rick M. Nisbet, ’87.

Francis Pawlowski Father of Richard Pawlowski, ’03 Steven H. Trombecky Father of Joseph Trombecky, ’18

Faculty & Staff Julio Aguilar Member of the operations staff

Former Faculty & Staff Gregory F. Boyle Science teacher, 1984-2006 Rev. James F. Keenan, S.J. President, 1994-2006 Rev. Blaise Jaschkó, S.J. Latin, French, and religion teacher, 1956-1970 Robert P. Zawistowski Science teacher and bowling coach, 1987-2008

Family of Faculty & Staff

Carole A. Lau Wife of Jack Lau, ’61

J. Brian McLean Father of Michael McLean (English teacher)

Patrick G. Lally Father of Patrick J. Lally, ’80 and Christopher Lally, ’81

Elizabeth Petrillo Mother of Scott Petrillo (School Counselor) Carmelo Romamo Father of Rosalie Romano (World Languages Department Chair)

Vita mutatur, non tollitur. Life is changed, not ended.

28 WINTER 2023-24 n PREP MAGAZINE

WEDDINGS | BIRTHS

Shane Caulfield, born July 24, 2023

Mary Catherine Murphy, born June 13, 2023.

Weddings Nathan Leo, ’12 and Madison Cooper May 25, 2023 Dermot Sullivan, ’12 and Kimberly Iervoline May 27, 2023 Craig Styles, ’09 and Caitlin McGarrity July 22, 2023 Will Delaney, ’16 and Lucy Sauter August 4, 2023 Nicholas Santa Maria, ’13 and Jessica Weissman August 17, 2023 Eric Jablonski, ’11 and Stephanie Rescigno October 7, 2023

Births Amy Paeth and Jonathan Fedors, ’03 daughter Isla Helena, born March 23, 2023

Eric Jablonski, ’11 and Stephanie Rescigno, married October 7, 2023

ALUMNI

Gwen DuVal, born May 15 and seen here with proud big brother Billy. She the granddaughter of William Petrick, ’79

Emily and John DuVal, ’08 daughter Gwen Rose, born May 15, 2023 Tara and John Murphy, ’08 daughter Mary Catherine, born June 13, 2023 Alison and Chris Caulfield, ’03 (Principal) son Shane Anthony, born July 24, 2023 Jaime and Rich Hansen, ’03 (Faculty Member) daughter Chloe Lee, born September 8, 2023 Rachel and Brendan Roche (Faculty Member) son Jude Ignatius, born November 22, 2023 Jenna and Francis LaMonica, ’03 daughter Emery Laine, born January 22, 2024 Christina and Christopher Zolli, ’06 daughter Emma Jean, born January 27, 2024 Michelle Ferrer and Matt Fleming, ’92 daughter Amelia Louise, born January 4, 2024 Grant and Caroline Hutchinson (Faculty Member) son Theodore Winston, born January 30, 2024 Kimberly Iervoline and Dermot Sullivan ’12, married May 27, 2023

Caitlin McGarrity and Craig Styles, ’09, married July 22, 2023 Nathan Leo, ’12 and Madison Cooper, married May 25, 2023

Lucy Sauter and Will Delaney, ’16, married August 4, 2023

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