Between the Lions - Winter/Spring 2024

This magazine is produced by the St. Pius X Catholic High School Office of Advancement.

Aaron Parr ’06

President

Edye Simpson, Ed. D. Principal

Jenn Sedlack Director of Advancement

Laura Patch O’Connell ’94 Communications Coordinator, Between the Lions Editor

Mary O’Brien Beyer ’82 Advancement Coordinator

Anne Marie Ciprari ’77 Director of Alumni

Michelle Crofton Special Events Coordinator

Ann Marie Dooley Edwards ’96 Assistant Director of Advancement

St. Pius X, an archdiocesan high school, provides a college preparatory education for the formation of the mind, body, and spirit of each student in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Welcome, Father Robbie!

Article adapted from the Golden Lines Student Newspaper article "Father Robbie: Part-time chaplain, full-time motorcycle priest" by Editor-in-Chief Elliott

Seng '25

This fall, St. Pius X welcomed a new part-time chaplain, Fr. Robbie Cotta, who is also the parochial vicar at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Ordained in 2021 after attending the Mundelein Seminary in Chicago, Fr. Robbie became roommates with two former St. Pius X chaplains: Fr. Michael Bremer and Fr. Rey Piñeda.

Fr. Robbie and Fr. Michael’s friendship grew from the moment they began seminary in 2014. Fr. Robbie was placed in the room right below Fr. Michael’s, and the two used to torment each other (in the most holy ways possible, of course). For example, when Fr. Robbie would jump up and down and bang on the floor as loud as he could, Fr. Michael would steal his cell phone and set a Siri alarm for the middle of the night. “There were some times where my phone would go off at 2:30 in the morning,” Fr. Robbie said.

“Looking back, I wish I’d known that the messiness of your humanity is always going to be there. It’s okay to be Catholic and not have your life together.”

Despite its occasionally fun, lighthearted nature, the vocation often puts priests under emotionally draining conditions. Compare, for instance, talking with cheerful students during a lunch period to attending the bedside of child cancer patients. As extreme as this may sound, it’s a priest’s job to serve according to the community’s needs, no matter how demanding it may be. “We’re constantly being pulled in a lot of directions,” Fr. Robbie said. “We’re wearing a lot of different hats.”

Yet in today’s workaholic culture, Fr. Robbie and friends (such as Fr. Rey, Fr. Michael, Fr. Joe Wagner, Fr. Ben Thompson, Fr. Mike Metz, and Fr. Paul Porter) prioritize their mental health through sharing their lives, supporting each other, and observing what Fr. Rey calls “a holy day of no obligation.” This can include anything from fishing, disc golf, and even motorcycling.

“I finally convinced my dad to give me his motorcycle,” Fr. Robbie said. So, is he a motorcycle priest? “Oh yeah.”

It’s easy to forget that priests are just like any other person. They listen to country music in the car with the windows down. They go to baseball games with their fathers. They ran track in high school. “Priests do not grow on trees,” Fr. Robbie said. “We come from normal families and normal schools.”

Maybe the difference between priests and the rest of us is pretty simple: God is their #1 priority. All the time. For the majority of the population, this distinction makes it hard to relate to priests. How do they maintain such a constant and deep devotion?

When he was seven, his parents asked him, “What do you want to do when you grow up?” Fr. Robbie didn’t say a firefighter or the president. He said, “I want to be a priest.” There’s a word – attraction – for how he felt about the priesthood, even from an early age. And then, faced with senior-year temptations in high school, he had lost it. It wasn’t as if he didn’t want God…for Fr. Robbie, it was more of a moral dilemma – one

where he could either be a good Catholic that didn’t do anything wrong or just do whatever he wanted. There was seemingly no in-between.

“Looking back, I wish I’d known that the messiness of your humanity is always going to be there,” Fr. Robbie said. “It’s okay to be Catholic and not have your life together.”

A die-hard UGA fan who grew up in Johns Creek and attended Chattahoochee High School, Fr. Robbie, although a good student, was a bit of a trickster who gained a reputation for messing around in class. He applied to Georgia Southern and nowhere else, looking to become a broadcasting journalist with a minor in political science.

Just like that, a life plan fell into place. Or so he thought. “I was going to be one of those people that you see on the White House lawn,” Fr. Robbie said. With a girlfriend looking to teach in Sarasota, Florida, Fr. Robbie intended on moving to Tampa, where he would pursue an entrylevel job in the radio industry. It was only when he came home before his last semester of college that everything changed.

A friend from his old Lifeteen group invited him to St. Brigid, the first Mass his friend presided over as a newly-ordained priest. Little did Fr. Robbie know that this Mass would move him to tears. “It was very clear that the Lord had reawakened that attraction in my heart,” Fr. Robbie said. “It was almost like reminding me of, 'Robbie, this is what I made you for.'”

I think we can all agree that St. Pius X is a better place with him here… whether serving an All School Mass or interrupting a boring lecture in class (my favorite). Immaculate Heart of Mary is lucky to have him; now we are, too.

Fr. Robbie's outlook on the priesthood is quite simple: “I haven’t regretted it a day since.”

FUN FACT!

While at Georgia Southern, Fr. Robbie worked in media relations as a student assistant in the Georgia Southern Athletic Department. He’ll never forget working the final football game of his career on the sidelines in “The Swamp” when Georgia Southern defeated the Florida Gators 26-20 without completing a single pass to secure their first victory over a Bowl Championship Series opponent in program history!

A Message from President Parr

Dear St. Pius X Family,

We’re in the midst of a busy and exciting time in our school’s history as we open our new, state of the art St. Joan of Arc Field House as well as the new concession stand, bathroom facility, bleachers, and press box at the Seaver Family Sports Complex. We have traveled a long road together to get to this point, and we are excited to move forward with these muchneeded facility upgrades for our students.

In addition to the construction on campus, we have completed our Accreditation process with a visit from our COGNIA accreditation team. As expected, our teachers and students were at their best, making a positive impression on our visitors.

Now that Accreditation and construction are behind us, we will turn our attention to a new strategic plan for our school. Working with our many stakeholders, we will create a vision for the next five years. This will be an extensive and exciting process, and I look forward to sharing the results of our plan with the community during the upcoming school year.

I want you to know that you are always welcome on campus. Our students, faculty, and staff love seeing alumni, former parents, and our many stakeholders visit and stay engaged at Pius. By doing so, you are helping the next generation of students. Thank you for your support and please know that our prayers continue to be with all of you.

Domini Sumus,

Aaron Parr '06 President

The Papal Nuncio Visits St. Pius X!

On Tuesday, February 20, St. Pius X was privileged to host Archbishop Gregory Hartmayer and Cardinal Christophe Pierre. Cardinal Pierre, the Papal Nuncio to the United States and the U.S. diplomat for Pope Francis, engaged with theology classes and answered their many questions. Additionally, students had the chance to provide him with a tour in French, his native language. This was such a wonderful opportunity for our school, and we sincerely thank Archbishop Hartmayer and Cardinal Pierre for visiting us!

The Campus Ministry Dream Team

Kicks Off a Year of Faith, Fellowship, and Fun

Campus Ministry has flourished this year! Susan Baker returned for her second year as Director of Campus Ministry, and she was joined by Liam Byrne, the new Associate Director of Campus Ministry. Alongside part-time chaplain Father Robbie Cotta, the team wasted no time in diving into lunchtime programming, communion services, and more. Lunch sessions have been diverse, ranging from deeply exploring Catholic themes, to engaging in Hot Take Tuesdays and Waffle Wednesdays, and facilitating small groups for both boys and girls.

Our cherished traditions remain vibrant, with class pilgrimages happening throughout the year. Juniors enjoyed their visit to the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, where they were graciously permitted by the abbot to witness the consecration up close. Meanwhile, freshmen embarked on a picturesque hike up Kennesaw Mountain in October, where they wrote heartfelt letters to their senior selves. This tradition will culminate in their senior year pilgrimage as they reflect on their journey at St. Pius X. Sophomores ventured to LaGrange and the Historical Bible Center, aligning with their scripture studies in theology class. Similarly, seniors will trek to Kennesaw Mountain for their final pilgrimage in April.

Beyond pilgrimages, the Campus Ministry calendar is brimming with retreats and mission trips. Boys enjoyed a lock-in held at St. Pius X, filled with games, talks, Mass, and adoration led by Father Robbie. Meanwhile, the girls enjoyed a "Stars" themed retreat at Covecrest LifeTeen camp. The Campus Ministry team is thrilled for the return of the Spring Break mission trip to the Dominican Republic with Mustard Seed Communities, and the summer mission trip with Alive in You Camps in Nashville, TN.

Campus Ministry welcomed therapy dogs during both final exams and Ash Wednesday, participated in the March for Life in Washington, D.C., hosted seminarians and sisters during Vocations Awareness Week, successfully carried out the annual canned food drive that generously benefited St. Vincent de Paul and Streetwise Missions, and a favorite Epiphany tradition of blessing all doorways.

Thanks to the addition of a chaplain, our All School Masses have been elevated, with Father Robbie leading the celebrations. Fr. Robbie also dedicates several hours on Fridays to connect with students and engage in classroom interactions. Furthermore, students have embraced the sacrament of Reconciliation during our Advent and Lenten Penance services, facilitated by numerous priests from neighboring parishes.

National Merit Scholarship and College Board Nominees

Congratulations to these students honored by the College Board's National Scholars and the National Merit Scholarship Programs. These awards recognize outstanding PSAT scores, placing our students among the best in Georgia and the nation. Each student was rewarded for their hard work with St. Pius X spiritwear. It's a remarkable achievement, and we take immense pride in their representation of St. Pius X!

College Board National African-American Scholars: Hailey Brown, Myles Nicholson, and Dominic Noel

College Board National Hispanic Scholars: Annabel Burgoon, Alfredo Cortes, Noah Jacobellis, Jack McHugh, Lorenzo Morales, Luc Tolusso, and Hidalmary Valerio

National Merit Scholarship Commended Students: Claire Bingham, Vincent Casal, Isabelle Darling, Addison Hicks, Carter Holcomb, Sean Leonard, Coleman Sheppard, Lauren Smith, and Zachary Sutter

National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists: Randy Graebner and Molly Pitra

Governor's Honors Representatives

Congratulations to these students who have been selected to represent St. Pius X in the Governor’s Honors selection process. They have demonstrated an exceptional level of excellence and passion within their disciplines. Each student was rewarded for their hard work with St. Pius X spiritwear, and we’re so proud of them for earning this impressive achievement!

Chemistry: Noah Bohach

Computer Science: Andrew Someren

Dance: Jane Halloran and Lydia Halloran

English: Reese Hillman and Elliott Seng

French: Abigail Gregory and Anna Ruth McIntyre

Jazz Piano: Michael Wright

Latin: Dino George

Mathematics: Howard Burton and Emma Pearce

Social Studies: Libbie Brownlow

Spanish: Josephine Freeman and Andrew Kazmer

Visual Arts: Erin Madison and Marli Nicholson

Second Annual Priests vs. Pius Basketball Game

Many thanks to the priests and seminarians who visited St. Pius X on November 8, 2023 for the Priests vs. Pius Basketball Game! In this intense, 10-minute game, the priests took an early lead. In the final moments, the students took back the game, winning by one point with a final score of 11-10. Playing on the "Priest Team" were seminarians Jacob Butz, Juno Lee, and Sean Lee, and priests Fr. Bob Frederick, Fr. Joe Wagner, Fr. Robbie Cotta, Fr. Paul Porter, Fr. Nick Le, Fr. Rey Pineda, and Fr. Paul Nacey.

Entire Freshman Class is CPR Certified

In December, the entire freshman class became CPR certified thanks to senior Olivia Pajer '24 and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Project S.A.V.E. Inspired by a television news program detailing cardiac arrests and the vital role of AEDs in saving lives, Olivia wrote a proposal, teamed up with Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, and with the help of St. Pius X Athletic Trainer Laschonda Pituk, put her plan into action.

Almost 300 students are now certified and prepared to address cardiac emergencies. Olivia's story was featured in Georgia Trend magazine. Scan the QR code below to read the article.

Hugh O'Brian Youth Foundation Leadership Award

Congratulations to Sariah Smith, this year's Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Foundation Award representative. Selected by faculty and administration, this award goes to the sophomore who demonstrates the most leadership potential based on exhibited peer leadership and excellent character. This summer, Sariah will attend a seminar with other HOBY winners from Georgia where students learn to recognize, amplify, and collaborate with the diverse strengths of others.

Teachers Celebrate Milestones

At the annual Archdiocesan In-Service on October 9, 2023, the Office of Catholic Schools recognized employees who have reached various milestones for their years of service. St. Pius X had 23 employees receive service pins, and the following teachers celebrated 25 and 30 year milestones. We thank these teachers for their dedication to Catholic education and St. Pius X!

25 Years of Service: Marsha Free, Lisa O’Connor, and Carrie Stockard

30 Years of Service: Dennis Ruggiero and Amy Williams

Annual Blood Drive

With the help of the Home & School Association, St. Pius X collected 109 pints of blood on September 21, 2023. The Red Cross estimates that this equates to 327 lives saved! Many thanks to the many blood donors and volunteers!

Putting Faith into Action

Rise Against Hunger

On October 23, 2023, students packaged thousands of meals for Rise Against Hunger, an international organization that provides food and other aid to people in developing nations. Thank you to the Theology Department for coordinating this service project and helping our students put their faith into action!

Mothers' Club Dresden Christmas Angel Tree

NHS Trunk or Treat

National Honor Society students hosted a trunk-or-treat event on October 28 for our Dresden Elementary neighbors. Several clubs and organizations decorated their cars and dressed in Halloween costumes to make the afternoon fun for everyone. Thanks to the NHS students and moderators for a spook-tacular day.

Shop with a Cop

On December 9, St. Pius X students volunteered with the Chamblee Police Department’s "Shop with a Cop" program and bought gifts for children in the local area. A special thanks to a St. Pius X favorite, Officer Jim Wiley, who helped make this a fun event for everyone!

Each year, the St. Pius X Mothers' Club holds a Dresden Christmas Angel Tree event. Led by cochairs Julie Warner and Bonnie Chandler, the Mothers’ Club worked with Dresden Elementary school counselors to identify students and families in need of assistance for the holidays. With the help of the St. Pius X community, this year the Mothers' Club sponsored 130+ students and siblings in 50 families. Each child received clothes, pajamas, a coat, three toys, games, or books from their wish list, a $25 Walmart gift card, and a fleece blanket made by a St. Pius X student. Each family also receives a $100 Walmart gift card for groceries.

This year, the Dresden Elementary Foundation also provided food pantry staples for each family. Student and parent volunteers assisted by serving as greeters, translators, gift loaders, and drivers. Giving on the Go, an Atlanta based non-profit charity, offered a popup shop at the event for families to select clothing and shoes. The Mothers' Club thanks our generous St. Pius X families, sports teams, clubs, faculty, and staff for supporting the Angel Tree event!

Football Players Participate in "Christmas Kindness"

St. Pius X football players volunteered with “Christmas Kindness” at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. This event brings the joy of the season to the working poor and homeless families of Atlanta, providing them the opportunity to shop for gifts, toys, and coats at no cost.

On Friday, September 15, St. Pius X celebrated our annual Grandparents' Day for grandparents of freshmen and seniors, extending a warm welcome to over 260 visitors. The morning featured a breakfast serenaded by live jazz music and adorned with student artwork. Mass was celebrated by Fr. James Fleming from Ignatius House, and the event concluded with a school tour. In preparation for the event, students eagerly volunteered to paint wooden crosses, write heartfelt notes, and assemble goody bags.

During his homily, Fr. Jim eloquently expressed, "Prayer is love, and love never goes to waste." To our cherished grandparents, your presence at St. Pius X was a gift, allowing us to join our hearts in prayer alongside you and for you. Thank you for a truly special day filled with love and meaningful connections.

Grandparents' Day

A Favorite Tradition Continues

"Prayer is love,,and love never goes to waste."

Heritage Homecoming

A New Tradition Returns for the Second Year

The second annual Heritage Homecoming was held on September 26, 2023. This event is a celebration of our St. Pius X community, showcasing our global heritage. The evening highlights international diversity through food, music, and entertainment. Homemade dishes from students and families, a cooking contest, a fashion show, and live performances are highlights of the event.

The goal of Heritage Homecoming is to raise awareness of our community's diversity and provide cultural education. By learning about different backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints, we aim to grow closer as a community, fostering interaction and connection among students and families.

Thanks to the support of faculty, staff, students, and parents, the entertainment was amped up, featuring an international fashion show. Live cooking demonstrations were given by Athletic Trainer Lashonda Pituk and student Peter Soulimiotis ’26. Lashonda prepared Thai fried rice, mango sticky rice, and Tom Kha Gai (chicken coconut soup). Peter made homemade Dolmades, which are grape leaves stuffed with ground beef, rice, and herbs with lemon dressing. One again this year, the Yimtatu family demonstrated the making of international Ethiopian Coffee, and the Baking Club prepared four international desserts.

Cultural games, a trivia contest, and a student art gallery added interactive elements to the event. Seniors Luna Ochoa Hernandez and Georgia Guadamuz, instrumental in the creation of Heritage Homecoming last year, returned as masters of ceremonies.

This fun fall event is quickly becoming a new favorite tradition

Student Art Gallery

The student art gallery displayed cultural artworks from around the world. Copper sheet relief works, created by the Art Association, depicted various nations. Plaster relief carvings were created by the Survey of the Visual Arts Class, which represented Egyptian Cartouches with carved hieroglyphs that phonetically spelled out the students' names. Vessels adorned with Inspirational quotes were made by the Ceramics Class.

The colored painting in the center, created by Marli Nicholson '25, illustrated a traditional festival dance held around Christmas called "Junkanoo."

The Design Fundamentals Class created display boards that illustrated different countries using the art of Notan, which originated in Japan.

at St. Pius X!

Learning from History

Theology Teacher Attends Holocaust Seminar in Jerusalem

Dennis Ruggiero, long-time St. Pius X Theology faculty member, teaches a senior elective called Holocaust & Genocide. This class has become so popular at St. Pius X that students have to apply for the class their junior year. The class includes a trip to Washington, D.C. to visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and Mr. Ruggiero offers an optional summer trip to Germany, where students visit many of the locations they learn about throughout the class, including Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site.

In July of 2023, Mr. Ruggiero was selected to attend a 10-day advanced learning seminar at the International School for Holocaust Studies at the renowned Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, in Jerusalem. Mr. Ruggiero was one of 31 teachers selected from 300 applicants, and the group of selected teachers varied widely in their knowledge of the Holocaust. The seminar was led by two teachers, and each day experts in a particular field presented different topics, such as Nazi Racial Ideology, The Establishment of the Ghettos, Everyday Life in the Warsaw Ghetto, Music in the Holocaust, Armed and Spiritual Resistance, Women in the Holocaust, Return to Life, and Contemporary Antisemitism. In addition to the intensive classes, the group toured the Old City of Jerusalem, Masada, the Dead Sea, and the 45-acre Yad Vashem campus. In addition to the International School for Holocaust Studies, Yad Vashem includes various museums, research and education centers, monuments

Mr. Ruggiero, pictured third from left in the top row, with fellow teachers in the program.

and memorials. It attracts approximately one million international visitors each year.

Of his experience, Mr. Ruggiero said, “Teaching the Holocaust and Genocide is more important now than in any other time in our history because of the lack of knowledge about the Holocaust and the rise of antisemitism around the world.”

Learn more about Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center

Veterans Day with WWII Soldier Hilbert Margol

On November 10, 2023, freshmen and sophomore students marked Veterans Day with a special guest, Mr. Hilbert Margol, a 100-year-old Jewish WWII veteran who served in the U.S. Army. Mr. Margol, alongside his twin brother, was among the first to discover and liberate Dachau Concentration Camp in 1945. For decades following the war, Mr. Margol remained quiet about his wartime experiences. However, several years ago, after being honored at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., he began sharing his story with schools and organizations, aiming to educate and inspire future generations. Students had the opportunity to ask Mr. Margol questions during the assembly and lined up afterward to thank him personally and shake his hand.

The National World War II Museum reports that out of the 16 million who served in WWII, fewer than 72,000 are alive in 2024, underscoring the significance for students to hear firsthand from WWII veterans like Mr. Margol. St. Pius X has been blessed to have Mr. Margol as a frequent guest. For the past two years he has spoken to Mr. Ruggiero's Holocaust and Genocide class, and last year he was an honored guest at the SPX Theatre's One-Act Play, "Dark Road," a powerful drama set in Nazi Germany.

CNN filmed the Veterans Day assembly for a story on Mr. Margol, and their footage was included in an interview conducted by CNN correspondent Gary Tuchman. The Georgia Bulletin also attended the assembly and published a story about Mr. Margol. In his interview with CNN, Mr. Margol humbly said, "I've never considered myself a hero. Because, to me, the true heroes are those who didn't make it back."

Scan above for CNN interview.

Scan above for Georgia Bulletin article.

Above: Teachers Scott Carter and Dennis Ruggiero with Mr. Margol (center).

Golden Lions Athletics

Golden Lions Varsity Highlights

Softball advanced to the state tournament, finishing with the third-seed in region 4-AAAAAA. Defeating Thomas County Central twice, the Golden Lions were knocked out of the tournament by super regional host, South Effingham. Nina Parker '23 and Megan Snipes '27 were named to the AllRegion First Team. Mary Durieux '27, Sadie Flynn '25, Ella Hall '26, and Maya McDaniel '27 were selected Second Team All-Region, with Maggie Maloney '26 and Sarah Schubert '24 garnering Honorable Mentions.

Volleyball had another strong showing in the AAAAAA state tournament, making a semifinal appearance. It marked the eighth time in the last nine years the Golden Lions have advanced to at least the final four. Isa Boyd '24 was named First Team All-State by the Georgia Volleyball Coaches Association and collected Third Team All-American honors. Bridget Consolazio '24 joined Boyd on the All-Region First Team, while Marlowe McIntyre '24 and Olivia Pajer '24 were named to the Second Team. McIntyre also collected Defensive Player of the Year for Region 4-AAAAAA. John Frederick was selected GVCA AAAAAA Coach of the Year.

Girls’ Cross Country were state runners-up as Zoe Garcia '24 and Lane Boyle '24 captured All-State honors. Gunnar Dykes '24 was named to the All-State Team for the boys, after the team’s fourth-place finish at the state championship meet.

Football advanced to the state playoffs for the 18th straight season. The Golden Lions had several players collect individual honors. Hudson Taylor '25 was named All-State Defensive Back by the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association. Madden Berg '25 was selected All-Metro Punter for DeKalb County by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Will McBride '24 was named to the All-Region Offensive Team, while Luke Inskeep '24, Berg,

and Taylor were selected to the Defensive Team. Honorable Mention honors went to Hampton Gilleland '24, Patrick Lynch '24, Jack Mount '24, Patrick Muir '24, and Charlie Nelson '25 on the offensive side, and Ian Biggs '24, Vincent Casal '24, Luke Laughter '24, Alex Romano '24, and Liam Terris '24 were selected for the defense.

In its second season, Girls’ Flag Football finished the season 16-5, and they made it to the second round of the state playoffs.

Competition Cheer won their seventh Region Championship led by their senior captains, Maddie Cooney, Kennedy Harlan, Emily Kelly, Minne Thompson, and Madeline Webb. The girls worked hard all summer and into the fall to put out a challenging routine to keep the fans on their toes.

Boys’ Basketball completed its 12th straight 20-win season, and advanced to the State Tournament for the 12th consecutive year, ending the season in the second round. The Golden Lions captured the region championship for the eighth year in a row, the longest active streak in Georgia. Harris Reynolds '26 was named to the All-Region First Team. Tobias Brinkley '26 and Aiden Portee '25 were selected Second Team AllRegion, and D’Marley Elliott '26 was selected as an Honorable Mention.

Girls’ Basketball qualified for the State Tournament for the 14th year in a row. The ladies bowed out of the tournament in the second round. Annabella Sheridan '25 was selected First Team All-Region, and Sofia Pihera '27 was voted Second Team All-Region. Eva Russell '26 received an Honorable Mention.

Wrestling finished its dual season with a 19-4 record, and sent 13 grapplers to the state sectionals. Gene Smith '24 placed fifth in the 138-lb weight class, while Vincent Casal '24 took fifth in the 175-lb class.

The Boys’ Swim and Dive team placed fourth at the state meet. Leyton Roe '24 captured the individual 50 freestyle, and Zach Sutter '24 finished third in the same event. Both swimmers had automatic All-American qualifying times. Sutter took first in the 100 butterfly. Ryland Gummere '26 finished second in the one-meter dive competition. The Boys’ 200 Freestyle Relay team of Wyatt Daniels '26, Jake Fjelstul '24, Roe, and Sutter took first-place with an automatic All-American time. Girls’ Swim and Dive finished eighth in the State Meet.

St. Pius X Fine Arts

Fine Arts Shines in the Christmas Concert Series

The Fine Arts Department ushered in the holiday season with a variety of performances. The Christmas Concert Series began with a performance by the SPX Singers and the Vocal Ensembles, followed by the Advanced Drama Company who presented The Gift of the Magi. At the Christmas Dance Concert, the Advanced Dance and Dance III classes performed jazz pieces to some popular songs, and the Dance Company performed excerpts of The Nutcracker. The series concluded with a performance by the band and guitar programs. All performances were fully supported by our amazing Tech Crew, and there were two sold-out shows!

Christmas Band Concert

Visual Arts students created and sold items at the SPX Marketplace Tech Crew working behind the scenes

Arabian from The Nutcracker SPX Theatre SPX Theatre presented The Gift of the Magi

Waltz of the Flowers Band and Guitar Perform Christmas Favorites

Special guests Ian Biggs and Matthew Miller with Bella Maher and Olivia Landers

Welcome Our New Director of Alumni

Anne

Marie Ciprari '77

We're happy to introduce our new Director of Alumni, Anne Marie Ciprari '77. Anne Marie is the parent of three daughters, Carson Hooper, and two St. Pius X graduates, Riley Hooper '17 and Jennings Hooper '20. She is a long-time St. Pius X volunteer, having served with the Advancement Committee and the Athletic Association. She was also involved with the cheer program for 10 years. Most recently, Anne Marie was with TIAA as the Senior Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, where she was responsible for philanthropic programs worldwide. Welcome back to St. Pius X, Anne Marie!

"I've been a Pius student, a Pius parent, and now a Pius employee. What strikes me most about St. Pius X is that while the campus and facilities have changed in so many ways since I was a student, the 'feel' of Pius remains the same. It still has the same culture and sense of family that everyone values most about St. Pius X. It's great to be back."

St. Pius X is Proud to Have 36 Alumni Faculty and Staff Members!*

Not Pictured: Howell M. Buot '15, Trey Broussard '01, Marian Goode Rosenberg '77, Molly McCarthy Wack '06, Carolynn Smith Walker '90, Ali Asip Wood '11

*As of December 8, 2023

This year, Dena Peck celebrates her 27th year as an Archdiocesan teacher, with 25 of those spent at St. Pius X. A Study Support teacher for 21 years, she's now back in the math department. For 25 years, she's led the Summer Math Enrichment Class, and for 13 years, she's taught the SAT/ACT prep course. This year holds special significance as both of her sons, Jake '24 and Justin '27, are St. Pius X students.

How has St. Pius X changed the most in the 25 years since you began working here? In which ways is it still the same?

The most significant change has been technology. I once used an overhead projector to teach because there weren't LCD projectors in every room. Now, I use my iPad daily. Parents and students having access to grades 24-7 came about while I was here, but having it on a mobile device that sends notifications is a great invention. What has stayed the same is that we are one big family. That is Pius through and through, and it will always be Pius.

How has your experience as a teacher changed since your children began attending St. Pius X, or did it change at all?

I've been lucky to have relatives on this campus since August 2013, when my nephew started. When he graduated in 2016, his sister – my niece and Goddaughter – started. One year her locker was outside my room, so I saw her every day. She graduated, and my son Jake began in the hybrid COVID year. Now, my younger son, Justin, is here as well. I love

having them here, and they have never said it is a problem to have their mom teaching here. It may be because they have been coming to St. Pius X since they were babies. They will talk to me during the day or walk with me in the halls.

Math is intimidating for some students - and even adults! What is your best advice for those who struggle with math?

Math can be challenging for many students. As a teacher, the key is to be patient, explain concepts in various ways, and provide plenty of practice opportunities for students to see success. Students often need more confidence in their math abilities. Therefore, in addition to being their teacher, I am their cheerleader. When they get an answer right, or when the light bulb goes on, we celebrate. Once students realize they can do the math, they see success, which leads to more confidence.

What advice do you have for young alumni considering a teaching career?

We need good teachers! If you love kids, are patient and flexible, and want to nurture America's future, join the profession!

What is your favorite memory or story of working at St. Pius X?

There used to be an annual school raffle. It was a big deal, and it was always kicked-off with an assembly. One year, I was Janet Jackson in one of the dance numbers. But in all honesty, it's the students and faculty that I enjoy most. Some of my former students have students here now. It is hard to believe I am old enough to teach kids of former students, but then I remember that I have been here since the last century!

Front Row: Amy Foster Williams '85, Mary Pat Warner Martin '86, Brady Gwynn '15, Morgan Carney '08, Cecelia Shannon Corso '83, Julie Auer Brandon '87, Karoline Rumps Brennan '82, Cary Johnson Blackburn '85. Second Row: Laura Patch O'Connell '94, Jennifer Todd Kapp '94, Rebecca A. Entrekin '15, Ashley Marriott Curlette '02, Victoria Millard '16, Rebecca Jones Rose '96, Jessica Darga Sowers '97, Katie Bush Stilson '00, Kristin Kramer '98, Rachel Braham '86. Third Row: Ann Marie Dooley Edwards '96, Aaron Parr '06, Mary O'Brien Beyer '82, Christi Lampe Caragher '84, Daniel Foley '06, Kevin Ksionzyk '05, Will Cloyd '08, Chris Murphy '97, Paul McNeil '12, Blaise Wannemacher '06, David Sabino '00, Anne Marie Ciprari '77.

The 2024 Gala and Auction Sets a New Record!

It was a grand night for fundraising at the “A Southern Charm Soirée” Auction and Gala on February 3, 2024. The biennial event made history by grossing over $330,000. The Gala offered both live and silent auctions, including 177 items featuring getaways, exclusive experiences, professional services, and the much anticipated junior and senior parking spaces. The live auction created quite the buzz, selling the Hippo Lakes luxury African safari for over $7,000 and a private Mass with our beloved Father Robbie for over $2,000. The Fund-A-Cause brought in over $100,000 for two new athletic training golf carts and the renovation of the Mark Kelly Gymnasium guest restrooms.

The Gala Committee, co-chaired by parents Dawn Duggan and Michelle Mancini, sold more than 400 tickets and turned the Mark Kelly Gymnasium into a true Southern experience. Attendees enjoyed dancing to the music of The Stephen Lee Band and partaking in a southern dinner catered by Laura Thompson Rogers '80 of C. Parks Catering. Beverage sponsors included the Pius-affiliated businesses of ASW Distillery, Q Mixers, Blue Ridge Spirit & Wine Marketing, Contrast Artisan Ales of Chamblee, and Constellation Brands. This year's sold-out Bourbon Pull was a highlight of the evening and several happy winners took home bourbons worth over $100 per bottle.

Leading up to the Gala, four Class Parties were held in the private homes of Pius families. These events, co-hosted by fellow parents, not only raised additional funds for the Gala, they brought together the Pius community for warm and inviting evenings of fellowship, furthering the spirit that makes St. Pius X so special.

Thank you to the Gala Committee members, sponsors, Class Party hosts, auction donors, attendees, and the St. Pius X family for making this an evening full of southern charm!

Give Like a Golden Lion

Each of us has a story to tell about why St. Pius X holds a special place in our hearts. The Give Like a Golden Lion Campaign set out to tell those stories, showcasing the many people who make up our community and who support this great institution through their Annual Fund giving. Please join them in supporting the Annual Fund by making your gift today!

Chris returned to his alma mater in 2022, answering the call to leadership as Dean of Students. Chris’ roots run deep. His mother graduated from St. Pius X in 1960, introducing Chris and his siblings to the school when they were little. To this day, St. Pius X is an integral part of the Murphy family.

While we might not all be Golden Lions since birth, each of us knows what it’s like to walk these halls as part of the St. Pius X community. “I’m a Golden Lion because of the generosity of others, and now I can help this generation of students with financial need by giving to the Annual Fund.”

Make your gift today!

Blue and gold run through Steve's veins. His face lights up when you ask him about his years at St. Pius X, and he beams with pride when talking about his grandson, Joseph, class of '26.

Steve contributes because he wants others to experience all that Pius has to offer. “I give to the Annual Fund because being exposed to my faith every day at St. Pius X shaped who I am, and I want current students to have the same experience.”

As a graduate, parent of two alumni, and daughter of a long-time faculty member, Consuelo’s life is woven with St. Pius X threads that tie her firmly to her alma mater. She lives out her faith as an active volunteer with Camp Kudzu, JDRF, and the Catholic Foundation of North Georgia. Consuelo also remains actively involved in the life of the school and will be the guest speaker at the upcoming retreat with Monsignor Lopez.

“Some years ago, I set up a monthly recurring gift in thanksgiving for all that St. Pius X has done for me. I can’t imagine my life without Pius, and one way I can show my love and appreciation is by donating to the Annual Fund.”

Ring the Bells Capital Campaign

Please Join Us Open House

Tuesday, April 16 3:00-6:15 p.m.

It is our great pleasure to welcome the St. Pius X community to campus as we unveil the final completed elements of the Ring the Bells Capital Campaign. We extend a special thank you to the 750-plus donors who have generously committed more than $14.2M toward this effort. Please consider helping us close out the campaign by purchasing a locker nameplate (see below) or by making a gift today.

St. Joan of Arc Field House

· Strength and Conditioning Room

· Eight Sport-Specific Locker Rooms

· Classrooms, Event, & Meeting Space

· Athletic Training Room

Seaver Family Sports Complex

· Concession Stand with Restrooms

· Bleacher System

· Press Box

· Field & Safety Lighting

2022-2023 FINANCIAL SUMMARY

The following Summary of Contributions includes all gifts received by St. Pius X Catholic High School from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. To all of our supporters, your thoughtful generosity and volunteerism is appreciated and serves as a testament to your spirit of commitment to St. Pius X. Thank you.

$12,905,065

$487,997

$2,263,863

$655,624

$168,867

$355,392

$1,347,633

$1,398,566

$19,583,007

$710,580

$20,293,587

REVENUES

$22,953,999

EXPENDITURES

Salaries and Benefits

Instructional

Student Services

Administrative

Advancement

Utilities

Maintenance

Depreciation

Expenditures from Operations

Deposits to Reserves and Endowment

Total Expenditures

TUITION COVERS

84%

OF THE COST TO EDUCATE

COST TO EDUCATE PER STUDENT: $18,136

2022-2023 TUITION: $15,300

SHORTFALL: $2,836

REVENUES

$15,301,594

$190,000

$363,000

$3,551,752

$727,535

$538,466

$136,442

$407,948

$1,737,262

$22,953,999

Net Tuition Revenue

Archdiocesan Tuition Assistance Subsidy

Fees

Advancement

Scholarship Donations

Bookstore

Arts and Athletic Gate

Investment Income

Cafeteria, Plant Rental, and Other Income

Revenues from Operations

SUMMARY OF CONTRIBUTIONS

SCHOOL FUNDRAISING

Total Revenue: $4,359,617

School Fundraising

$944,045

Ring the Bells Capital Campaign

$2,262,135

Other

$345,572

Restricted Gifts

Endowed and Funded Scholarships

$727,535

Program Directed Giving

$80,330

PARENT ORGANIZATION GROSS FUNDRAISING

Total Revenue: $799,207

Athletic Association

$569,224

SPAS

$123,989 Annual Fund

Mothers’ Club

$79,665

Home & School Association

$26,329

CHI-RHO SOCIETY

Chi-Rho Society members help secure the long-term future of St. Pius X Catholic High School through various forms of planned gifts. While providing for the future of their loved ones, they have also had the foresight and generosity to include St. Pius X in their estate plans. As members of our Chi-Rho Society, we acknowledge their commitment to supporting Catholic education. To date, St. Pius X Catholic High School has received $3,737,654 in realized gifts from Chi-Rho Society members.

For information on the Chi-Rho Society or if you have already included the school in your will or estate plan and would like to become an official member of the Society, please contact Jenn Sedlack at jsedlack@spx.org.

Barb Aleksa-Parr

Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth D. Barnett Jr.

Ms. Diane Barnsley

Tom ✝ and Corinne Boyle

Bill and Karin Bruckert

Daniel Burg '87

Mary Byrne Callahan ✝

Linda Conrads '70

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Craft

Kathleen Darko ✝

Timothy and Judith Dunn '79

Joan Diemer ✝

Bob and Barbara Foley

Olga Castelerio de Goizueta ✝

Roberto C. Goizueta ✝

Noel Greene '93

Ann Guscio ✝

Charles and Mildred Hart ✝

Brenda and Mark Homrich '80

Daniel and Mary Vallés Jones

Charleen Klister ✝

Stephen and Stephanie Miller

Ottis Moore '67

Katherine O’Neil Nelson '73

Norma Wrigley Nicholson '60

Tom and Joanne Novack ✝

Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. O’Hara

Mike and Susan Petrik

Gus and Susan Piña

Bill Poole ’62 and Barbara McCusker Poole '62

Chris and Karen Ratcliffe

Mrs. Pat Reiley

James M. Seaver '64 ✝ and Mrs. Susan Seaver '64

Steve and Julie Bell Siler '95

Betsy and Bridges Smith

Marycarol and Carter Stout '78

Tony and Maryanne Waddell Sutter '82

Cliff and Ann Switzer

David Wallace '63 ✝

Msgr. Terry W. Young

Ben and Regina Znosko

NEWLY ESTABLISHED SCHOLARSHIPS

The following scholarships were established during the 2022-2023 school year. We thank these St. Pius X supporters who made these scholarships possible. Are you interested in creating a scholarship in honor or memory of a loved one? Contact Jenn Sedlack at jsedlack@spx.org to learn more.

Billy '72 and Lisa Laube Scholarship

The Billy '72 and Lisa Laube Scholarship Fund is awarded to students in need of financial assistance who exhibit leadership and team building skills. Preference is given to student athletes, preferably soccer players, who exemplify the values of hard work and dedication both on and off the field. Billy played on the inaugural boys' soccer team, was the MVP both his junior and senior year, and went on to play soccer at the collegiate level. Billy is an active member of the Class of 1972 and serves as his class representative. He is committed to making a Pius education accessible to others and helped establish the Lt. Alexander Brooks Montgomery Jr. '72 USN fund in honor of his classmate and friend.

Donations received in 2022-2023:

Billy and Lisa Laube '72

Christopher Philpott '08

Rebecca Setili Millard '68 Scholarship

A proud member of the St. Pius X Class of 1968 and a loving mother, Becky sacrificed daily to raise four boys, Matthew '91, Marcus '92, Douglas '95, and Thomas '98. The Rebecca Setili Millard Scholarship Fund was created by her husband Robin and provides scholarships to students in need of financial assistance.

Donations received in 2022-2023:

Robert and Kathleen Angus

Lorene Benton

Robert Bryant

Carroll EMC

Joe and Julie DeLoach Dangel '68

Mike and Joane Goodroe

Barry Gray

Nelson Houston

Jackson EMC Employees

Greg and Mary Jordan

Joe and Sue Kelenfy

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mall

Ceci Shook McAuliffe '68

The McGinniss Family

Robin Millard and Rebecca Setili Millard '68 ✝

Kendall and Wendy Mitchell

Leann Petit O'Donnell '68

John and Maureen Oliaro

Philip and Barbara Langsfeld

Otwell '70

David and Donna Porter

Duane and Sherry Schlereth

Leo Schlinkert

Phillip Sutton

Nils and Carol Thompson

Arlene Toole

Ronald and Velma Walters

CLASS OF '59

Total Support: Undisclosed

Participation: 1.5%

Martha Tucker Jeffords

CLASS OF '60

Total Support: $495

Participation: 7%

Pete Anderson

Terence Earley

Kathie Allen Lunsford

Jeannette Friedwald Lynch

Betty Grubbs Martin

Norma Wrigley Nicholson

Mary Matthews Smith

CLASS OF '61

Total Support: $1,460

Participation: 7%

Marian Van House Adamson

Paul Beavin

Dennis Brennan

Sandra Eaton Eaton-Heter

Eileen Fitzgerald Harris

Kay Lombardy Hynes

Robert Mangan

Elizabeth Wible Molloy

Kathleen Hamilton Waller

CLASS OF '62

Total Support: $1,945

Participation: 5%

Ray Harvey

Yvonne Freant McHone

Josephine Gegan Olson

William Poole

Barbara McCusker Poole

Mariene Kruse Skinner

Bill Waidelich

CLASS OF '63

Total Support: $12,115

Participation: 6%

Tom Almon

Richard Armitage

Rosemary Hines

Tom Lawrence

Jack Millkey

Judy Myers Owings

Muffet Adams Puckett

Mary Eberhart Tremmel

Elaine Di Cristina Waidelich

CLASS OF '64

Total Support: $3,450

Participation: 3%

Thomas Brannan

John Euart

Susan Murray Euart

Frank Hurd

Paul Myers

CLASS OF '65

Total Support: $2,625

Participation: 6%

Bill Abraham

John Ball

Karen Teske Buttermore

Jim Haddad

Tom Johnson

Bruce MacDowall

Laurenthia Mesh

Bill Mosley

Elaine Gussman Northern

CLASS OF '66

Total Support: $7,568

Participation: 7%

Kathy Blythe Argenbright

Jimmy Asip

Emmett Coggin

Sharon Scheurer Germano

Diane Baly LaBudde

Mike Marshall

Judith Nicks Nicks

Lee Peeler

Kathleen Hurd Peters

Craig Reynolds

Michael Stubbs

Angelique deGolian White

Reflecting a continued commitment to supporting the financial needs of the school, 527 graduates participated in the 2022-2023 Annual Fund. The amount contributed by alumni was $213,284. We are grateful to all of our alumni for their continued support of St. Pius X.

To contribute to this year's Annual Fund, scan here.

CLASS OF '67

Total Support: $3,000

Participation: 5%

Jon Atchley

Allen Ballar

Alexander Beal

Nancy Frierson Cassidy

Steve Kramer

Thomas Spitzer

Karen Conrads Wibell

CLASS OF '68

Total Support: $7,150

Participation: 7%

Karl Barnes

Thomas Beavin

Robert Besal

Gerald Bohn

Dolores Pisano Byrd

Mike Cassidy

Susan Dorn Fowler

Dolores Hopkins Lauderdale

Ceci Shook McAuliffe

Sam McQuaid

Rebecca Setili Millard ✝

Linda Thalman Norwood

CLASS OF '69

Total Support: $6,400

Participation: 7%

John Bliss

Kathleen Kelly Conwell

Kevin Dawson

Woody Euart

Robert Fannon

Richard Farnsworth

Sally McQuaid Kramer

Steve Morgan

Richard O'Brien

Joseph Odom

Ted Sak

Hugh Shipley

Denise Najour Warner

CLASS OF '70

Total Support: $7,225

Participation: 5%

Linda Conrads

Janice Stevenson Dawson

Meg Hyle Frederick

Kerry Frederick

Mark Kelly

Linda Krebs

Katherine Durden O'Brien

Kim Reichling

Maureen O'Shea Spellman

Kathy Jones Testa

CLASS OF '71

Total Support: $1,550

Participation: 4%

Jack Harney

Marta Gutierrez Lane

Steve Lane

Bill McKenzie

Kathleen Hogan Reichling

Laura Simon Simon

Bill Stogner

CLASS OF '72

Total Support: $6,075

Participation: 5%

Steve Asip

Brad Bradshaw

Stephen Dlugos

Liz Peeples Jamieson

William Laube

Anita Gentle Newcomb

Nancy Conrads Pendergast

Debbie Ogle Stubbe

CLASS OF '73

Total Support: $3,648

Participation: 5%

Eileen Jones Bradshaw

David Buechner

James deGive

Tom Janas

Jeff Lane

Sherry Bond Lundeen

John Olson

Steve Rein

Paul Spellissy

CLASS OF '74

Total Support: $10,300

Participation: 7%

Michael Abel

Kathryn Stultz Ballentine

Joe Berry

Tom Bickes

Muff Sullivan DeCelles

Mike Fannon

Therese Jones Green

Bill Kelly

Linda Buechner Kelly

Rob Kraus

Matthew Lammers

Molly Messner Lane

James Maguire

CLASS OF '75

Total Support: $3,650

Participation: 5%

May May Bindewald Bickes

Nancy Rupp Butler

Jeanne Krieger Kraus

Gary Leiner

Kathryn Murphy

James O'Neal

Patricia Peeples

Susan Berthelsen Pettit

Elizabeth Baggett Rein

Gerard Schramm

CLASS OF '76

Total Support: $4,875

Participation: 5%

Susan Devine

Mike Dolan

Michael Manning

Linda Gerstner Manning

Steve Martin

William May

Kevin Melvin

Mary Pat McGinn Schaaf

Mary Hedges Smith

Jarrette White

CLASS OF '77

Total Support: $6,150

Participation: 7%

Patty Gilmer Childs

Anne Marie Ciprari-Hooper

Joseph Conboy

Ann Hudson Currie

Mary Carter Davis

Jay Flowers ✝

Timothy Markham

Jim McLellan

Robin Morrow

Santiago Perez

Marian Goode Rosenberg

Chris Sertich

Gena Mitchell White

CLASS OF '78

Total Support: $3,100

Participation: 1%

Phil Pompilio

Carter Stout

CLASS OF '79

Total Support: $8,350

Participation: 5%

Timothy Dunn

Catherine Anderson Foxworth

James Goda

Mike Goode

Vivian Orr Heard

Michael Mohr

Mary Angelich Rubright

Henry Smith

Mary Maguire Smith

CLASS OF '80

Total Support: $20,655

Participation: 9%

Richard Arroll

John Asip

Katy Hunter Asip

Matthew Beyer

Steve Hogan

Mark Homrich

Dexter Lummus

Lori Leach Lummus

Paul Marsden

Madeline Hoch Marsden

Juliet Jones Melvin

Farhad Niroomand

Donna Muscolino Oliver

Jose Pagoaga

Greg Raines

Joanie Reardon Raines

CLASS OF '81

Total Support: $3,910

Participation: 4%

Sharon Fleming Adams

Kathy Hellgeth Cashin

Emma Llano Clausen

Ellen Krol

Mark Long

Robert Manarin

Sandra McIntyre

Susan Beyer Sik

CLASS OF '82

Total Support: $6,300

Participation: 7%

Mary O'Brien Beyer

Karoline Rumps Brennan

James Brieske

Anne Reimer Craig

Paula Thomas Fannon

Patrick Kingery

Terri Lewis

Chris Markham

James Martin

Karen Kerner Pagoaga

Kelly McGonegal Smith

Paul Todd

Jennifer Pitra Wootten

CLASS OF '83

Total Support: $1,175

Participation: 4%

Brigid Foster Bartholomai

Jackie Tusa Carriker

Cecelia Shannon Corso

August Green

Beverly Kirby McPhee

Juan Munoz

Paolo Tolusso

CLASS OF '84

Total Support: $1,505

Participation: 3%

Ana Anton

Christi Lampe Caragher

Christopher Eck

Cheryl Hawkins

Elena Mowiser Murphy

Michelle Young Rivers

CLASS OF '85

Total Support: $11,875

Participation: 6%

Lisa McBride Beck

Cary Johnson Blackburn

Gini McMahan Brower

Betsy Goggin Buechner

Louise Fisher Coniglio

Siobhan Rieger Finnegan

Christoph Gerdes

Matt Jardina

Francis Laba

Steve Maloof

Valerie Miller Maloof

Caroline McManus Thrasher

Amy Foster Williams

CLASS OF '86

Total Support: $2,335

Participation: 5%

Rachel Braham

Michael Caffrey

Amy Adams Collins

Consuelo Leon Ecuyer

Kerri DeBerardinis Henderson

Chris Hill

Beth Chyzik Landry

Steve Lenich

Mary Pat Warner Martin

Anne Payne Payne-Schutte

Jeanne McAllister Queen

Amy McBride Sims

CLASS OF '87

Total Support: $9,050

Participation: 5%

Todd Bennett

Julie Auer Brandon

Kore Thompson Breault

Maria Lia Cornejo

Jennifer McGowan Guynn

Maria Rodriquez Miller

Kevin Reardon

Bryan Reid

Anne McGill Wilson

CLASS OF '88

Total Support: $9,900

Participation: 5%

Melissa Beam

John Coyle

Lydia Levergood Hazelwood

Lara O'Connor Hodgson

Shannon Garvey Kettering

Shawn Kowalewski

Steve Maloof

Mark Montello

R. Orsagh

Mary Rinaldi Winn

Phil Sedlack

Brian Shortal

CLASS OF '89

Total Support: $7,475

Participation: 4%

Anonymous

Susan Arenson-Tootle

Daniel Edwards

Meg Jones Fligg

Maggie Gonzalez Hoback

Kathleen Boyle Mathers

Alicia Cervantes Muniz

Ricky O'Connell

Carl Rappold

CLASS OF '90

Total Support: $8,449

Participation: 6%

Mark Dooley

Chadwick Eaton

Holly Miller Emberson

William Euart

Frank Klein

Jennifer Coady McBride

Tracy Yeates Navarro

Christine Auer Schwartz

Maureen Smith Smith

Stephanie Warner Tadros

Carolynn Smith Walker

Matthew Walker

Annalena Giarrusso Winer

CLASS OF '91

Total Support: $7,925

Participation: 3%

Christopher Boyle

Rob Conners

David Hungeling

Nicole Hiltgen Jung

Patrick Keuller

Ansley Davis Murphey

Jill Cannarella Pierce

David Troncale

CLASS OF '92

Total Support: $2,010

Participation: 1%

Theresa Carr Cummings

Anne Armstrong Smith

Susan Riesmeyer Wood

CLASS OF '93

Total Support: $6,025

Participation: 2%

Diana Barnsley Fleming

Christine Salgado Hungeling

Terrence McBride

Kerry Stolte Ross

CLASS OF '94

Total Support: $10,400

Participation: 5%

Anonymous

Matthew Hiller

Lauren Rotchford Holmes

John Kapp

Jenniffer Todd Kapp

Michelle Gembala Mancini

Sarah Digel Matthews

Matt Matthews

Kathryn Fletcher Moran

Laura Patch O'Connell

Tracie DeBeltrand Schmidt

Curtis Schmidt

Jennifer Hawkins Seebach

CLASS OF '95

Total Support: $7,076

Participation: 5%

Ranjan Avasthi

Alexandra Catroppa Azzarello

Heather Hickein Cartier

John Conklin

Margaret Richardson Dinerstein

Stephanie Kampfer-Bohach

Silvia Rosado Martin

Rebecca Hitchcock Motes

Andrew Seng

Julie Bell Siler

Mark Van Zant

CLASS OF '96

Total Support: $5,209

Participation: 5%

Christopher Bohach

Luke Braham

Nathan Deasy

Hilary Goodno Dixon

Ann Marie Dooley Edwards

Michael Haddad

Heather Quinn Haddad

Julie DuVall Hiland

Anderson Hughes

Katie Whitehead Hughes

Therese Mastrangelo

Rebecca Jones Rose

Phil Varona

CLASS OF '97

Total Support: $3,529

Participation: 4%

Rebecca Castillo Buehler

Thomas Burrell

Christopher Gilligan

Matthew Hegarty

Andrew Lichtenwalner

Chris Murphy

Michael Piacentino

Chris Rogers

Jessica Darga Sowers

Jorge Suarez

Karen Thompson Swan

CLASS OF '98

Total Support: $4,400

Participation: 3%

Teresa Marie Hungeling Ebbs

Glen Iannucci

Kelly Asip Iannucci

Kristin Kramer

William Macking

Daniel Noyd

Virginia Kirouac Provost

CLASS OF '99

Total Support: $3,600

Participation: 2%

Nick Kelly

Nour Salman Kelly

Mary Raterman Martin

Maria Mahon McDonald

CLASS OF '00

Total Support: $1,655

Participation: 4%

Leeann Buergler Attanucci

Thomas Conroy

Tracey Gordineer

Michael Moore

Michael Petrik

Catherine DeWitt Rice

David Sabino

Katie Bush Stilson

Alicia Hatter Weir

CLASS OF '01

Total Support: $2,785

Participation: 5%

Trey Broussard

Margaret Doig

John Dooley

Kristin Vari Dooley

John DuVal

James Flanagan

Deanna Jones Jones-Puig

Tracy Shiver Patrick

Molly Mungovan Powers

Nicholas Rogge

Augusto Trujillo

Claire Farnsworth Wildman

CLASS OF '02

Total Support: $2,700

Participation: 3%

Philip Consuegra

Ashley Marriott Curlette

Sean Dowd

Richard Halcik

John Huynh

Carolyn Trammell Sannuti

Elizabeth Marshburn Small

CLASS OF '03

Total Support: $2,686

Participation: 1%

Samuel Noyd

Nancy Rogge

CLASS OF '04

Total Support: $1,825

Participation: 2%

John Perk

Rachelle Esser Petusky

Evan Tighe

Eugenie Viener

CLASS OF '05

Total Support: $1,675

Participation: 2%

MaryJo Terrill Dorse

Daniel Graciaa

Joey-Maria Jones Hedrick

Kevin Ksionzyk

Patrick Marshburn

CLASS OF '06

Total Support: $2,430

Participation: 3%

Hugh Kinsel

Marie Phelan Ksionzyk

Meghan Lammers Palmer

Aaron Parr

Molly McCarthy Wack

Lisette Buechner Wannemacher

Blaise Wannemacher

CLASS OF '07

Total Support: $1,020

Participation: 2%

Taylor Davidson

Jessica Buechner Gordon

Kristin Hare Lawson

Katie Perez Parr

Marin Gerulski Rutz

Jackie Sherry

CLASS OF '08

Total Support: $445

Participation: 2%

Morgan Carney

Robert Cloyd

Ross Doelling

Faith Khalik

Natalie Esser Moody

Elisa Graciaa Suri

Earle Taylor

CLASS OF '09

Total Support: $2,005

Participation: 2%

Kyle Frazier

Joseph Hickey

Lauren Izegbu

Blake Jones

Carolyn Koenig

Andrew Leipold

CLASS OF '10

Total Support: $950

Participation: 1%

Nathan Hovey

Brandon Irvin

Mary Perez

CLASS OF '11

Total Support: $1,005

Participation: 2%

Conyers Coupland

Avery Daniel

Christina Jones

Paul Koenig

Sarah Esser Morgan

Angela O'Donoghue

Alexandra Asip Wood

CLASS OF '12

Total Support: $200

Participation: 2%

Jeremy Crawford

Philip Haugh

Ashlyn Pyden McNeil

Paul McNeil

Kelli Terracino Stewart

CLASS OF '13

Total Support: Undisclosed

Participation: <1%

Amanda Stitt Moore

CLASS OF '14

Total Support: $300

Participation: 2%

Joshua Beck

Gianna Dellapina

Daniel Haugh

Kevin Jones

Daphne Mack

William Maguire

CLASS OF '15

Total Support: $1,165

Participation: 1%

Howell Buot

Rebecca Entrekin

Brady Gwynn

Sally Varner

CLASS OF '16

Total Support: $65

Participation: <1%

Victoria Millard

Carolann Stout

CLASS OF '17

Total Support: $60

Participation: <1%

Timothy Beck

Thomas Brunner

CLASS OF '18

Total Support: $0

Participation: 0%

CLASS OF '19

Total Support: $35

Participation: <1%

Kathryn Kavanagh

Anthony Stout

CLASS OF '20

Total Support: $55

Participation: <1%

Matthew Callaway

Justin Tardy

CLASS OF '21

Total Support: Undisclosed

Participation: <1%

Francis Maloof

CLASS OF '22

Total Support: $Undisclosed

Participation: <1%

Charlotte O'Donnell

CLASS OF '23

Total Support: $589

Participation: 18%

Bailey Apgar

Sarah Benson

Lukas Blaszyk

Grace Bradley

James Brady

Jessica Burns

Joseph Connell

Andrea Connors

Madeline Crofton

Savannah Crofton

Sydney Erickson

Benjamin Freeman

William Garcia

Ava Godbey

Samantha Hefner

Julia Herring

Thomas Howser

Natalie Hungeling

Avery Jones

Zoe Kling

Brian Knuth

Matthew Livingston

Amelia Maloof

Molly McElfresh

Matthew McIntyre

Emma Murphey

Trinity Nguyen

Gabriela Obregon

Annalise O'Connell

Kathleen O'Shea

Madison Panarese

Ava Peebles

Lily Perella

Derrick Porter

Miranda Possert

Alexander Rowland

Raven Royter

Mason Rudder

Hannah Schemmel

Lauren Sharp

Austin Sok

Charles Stevens

Julia Tardy

Jack Yvan Tchienchou

Julia Tiberia

Sienna Trupiano

Paul van Rooijen

Aquinas Voss

Eli Whitcomb

Liam Whitlark

Abigail Williams

Jack Woods

TOTAL ST. PIUS X ALUMNI

13,807

TOP FIVE CLASSES FOR TOTAL GIVING IN 2022-2023:

CLASS OF '80: $22,655

CLASS OF '63: $12,115

CLASS OF '85: $11,875

CLASS OF '94: $10,400

CLASS OF '74: $10,300

TOP CLASS FOR PARTICIPATION:

CLASS OF '23: 18%

Homecoming 2023

The Golden Lion spirit filled the air for Homecoming-Reunion Weekend on September 29 - October 1, 2023. The St. Pius X community came together for three fun-filled days of football, service, reunions, and fellowship.

Friday night, the alumni community enjoyed a festive BBQ dinner on Messner Plaza while cheering on the Golden Lions against North Atlanta High School. Saturday brought a morning of service with a “sandwich build” for Crossroads Community Ministries followed by an evening of class reunions. The weekend culminated Sunday with the Alumni Mass celebrated by Father Brian Small '92 followed by a delicious catered brunch in the lobby of the Young Center. Thanks for a great weekend, Golden Lions!

Alumni Events

Spring Retreat with Monsignor Lopez

Retreat to the Church of the Purification & The Retreat at Heritage on April 27-28, 2024 for a St. Pius X Weekend! Gather for a day of fellowship, prayer and inspiration with beloved St. Pius X teacher, Monsignor Richard Lopez. The guest speaker will be Conseulo Leon Ecuyer '86.

The Retreat includes Mass at the historic Church of the Purification, a reflection led by Monsignor Lopez, and special time with St. Pius X family and friends among walking trails, prayer gardens, and fellowship spaces secluded on 200 acres of forests and fields. Choose to spend the day, or stay overnight at the one of the Retreat's newly-built cottages. Overnight guests will enjoy time with Monsignor Lopez and other St. Pius X guests with a pre-dinner reception, as well as extended time at the Retreat. Following checkout, guests have the opportunity to attend 11:30 a.m. Mass.

We look forward to seeing you there!

St. Pius X Golf Tournament

Alumni On Campus

First Annual Young Alumni Visit

On January 3, 2024, we began a new tradition at St. Pius X. Alumni from the four most recent classes ('20, '21, '22 and '23) were invited to campus to visit with their favorite teachers and coaches, tour the new construction on campus, and see former classmates. At this inaugural event, we welcomed almost 50 young alumni back to campus. We look forward to next year!

St. Pius X Career Day Alumni Baseball Game

On Friday, November 10, the Home & School Association, led by parent organizers Carla Rivers and Claudia Edwards, held the annual Career Day event. Junior and senior students had the opportunity to hear from professionals in a variety of career fields. Many thanks to the following alumni who returned "home" to St. Pius X to speak to students: Emily Davignon '17, Jonathan Fisher '18, Heather Haddad '96, Janet Tanzy '14, Meghan Matthews '12, Grace Garrett '16, Sally Smith '16, Jennifer Wootten '82, Lisette Wannemacher '06, Kerry Connor '93, Lucas Northway '18, Derek Chelf '99, and Stephen Robertson '14.

The second annual Alumni Baseball Game took place on October 28, 2023. The teams were divided by odd and even graduation years.

The Odd Team jumped out to a big lead early, and then the Even Team had some big late innings to get back in it, including a grand slam by Tate Henderson '22. Ultimately the Odd Team took the win, earning the first-ever Spellman Cup championship trophy. The Odd Team gets to brag for a year until they tee it up again on October 26, 2024! Many thanks to the alumni who played and the friends and families that cheered them on!

Alumni Spotlight

Bill Meagher '76

A Journey of Resilience and Gratitude: Bill Meagher's SPX Legacy

In the halls of St. Pius X Catholic High School in Atlanta, the spirit of camaraderie and tradition creates a unique bond that transcends generations. Bill Meagher, a 1976 graduate, not only experienced the magic of St. Pius X as a student but also found his way back to contribute to the school's legacy in more ways than one.

As a student at St. Jude, Bill attended many St. Pius X football games and couldn’t wait until he too, was able to attend St. Pius X. His student days in high school were more than just academic; as he was heavily involved in sports and leadership; playing football, basketball, baseball, tennis, and serving as the president of his senior class.

In 2000, after spending several years in Birmingham, Bill moved his family to Atlanta and both his daughters, Mary Corder '08 and Ann Patrick '12, graduated from St. Pius X. In 2004, Mark Kelly, former St. Pius X Athletic Director, extended an invitation for Bill to get involved, which was a proposition he couldn't turn down. Bill started by spotting for Dennis Kelly at football games, and in 2008, he

"Enjoy every day, prioritize faith, family, and friends, take responsibility for your health, find work that aligns with your skills and brings happiness, and above all, love the Lord with all your heart and soul."

became the Varsity Girls' and Boys' basketball announcer – a role he continues to hold to this day.

Reflecting on his time in the press box during football games, Bill fondly recalls working alongside Dennis Kelly and Tom Florence for about a decade. Their collaboration brought not only memorable moments but also a sense of camaraderie that defines the St. Pius X community.

Basketball brought its own set of highlights for Bill, as he had the honor and privilege to announce the games during Asia Durr's fouryear stint at St. Pius X. Beyond witnessing Durr's exceptional talent, he had a front-row seat for two state championships.

On the boys' basketball side, Bill began announcing a couple of years before Aaron Parr took the helm as head coach. The team's inspirational play, characterized by hustle, teamwork, and tenacity, made announcing their games a fulfilling experience for Bill. He recalls the triple-overtime win over Americus-Sumter as the pinnacle of his announcing career – a game where the best players fouled out and somehow, some way, St. Pius X still won the game.

However, life's journey took an unexpected turn for Bill in 2019 when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Facing this challenge headon, he underwent surgery to remove his prostate. Unfortunately, in the summer of 2021, the cancer returned, leading Bill to undergo 39 radiation treatments at the Northside Hospital Cancer Center.

Adding to the remarkable tale of resilience, a mere 12 days after his last radiation treatment, Bill underwent a total knee replacement. Bill successfully recovered and resumed an active lifestyle, including playing golf and enjoying time with his grandson, Arlo.

In sharing his journey, Bill offers valuable advice to others: enjoy every day, prioritize faith, family, and friends, take responsibility for your health, find work that aligns with your skills and brings happiness, and above all, love the Lord with all your heart and soul.

Through his enduring connection with St. Pius X, Bill continues to inspire others with his resilience, gratitude, and a profound appreciation for the journey of faith, family, and community.

Pictured far left: Bill's daughters, Mary Corder '08 and Ann Patrick '12.

Alumni Spotlight

Liz Pentecost '20

An Adaptive Athlete Shares Her Story

I attended Immaculate Heart of Mary School before starting at St. Pius X Catholic High School in the fall of 2016. As a middle schooler and freshman, I was active in both the cheerleading and lacrosse programs.

On February 17, 2017, I began to feel pain in my legs. After a full day of school and lacrosse practice, my dad picked me up, and as we ran errands, I became unable to move. We went to the emergency room, and by 3:00 a.m. I was paralyzed from the waist down. Many, many, many tests later, I was diagnosed with Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM), which is a subset of Transverse Myelitis.

Transverse Myelitis is an inflammation of both sides of one section of the spinal cord. This neurological disorder often damages the insulating material covering nerve cell fibers (myelin). It interrupts the messages that the spinal cord nerves send throughout the body. This can cause pain, muscle weakness, paralysis, and sensory problems. Unfortunately, the damage is irreversible.

After spending 50 days in the hospital, I returned home and enrolled in an intensive outpatient therapy program. My entire family, including my parents, Leigh and Richard, and my younger brother, Will, felt the love and support of the St. Pius X and IHM communities in so many ways. Through the amazing nonprofit organization, Sunshine on a Ranney Day, our home was retrofitted so that I had a suite that included a bedroom, “hang out” space, and a wheelchair-accessible bathroom. I was able to return to St. Pius X for my sophomore year, along with my service dog, Stevie Ray.

Returning to St. Pius X in a wheelchair after previously walking the hallways was definitely difficult. It had been less than six months since I had gotten sick, and everything was still so new and raw. Being a full-time wheelchair user was tough, but thankfully, my teachers, classmates, and friends were very sweet and willing to help me with whatever I needed.

In my senior year, I started playing wheelchair basketball through Blaze Sports, a nonprofit that provides opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in and play adaptive sports. After the first practice, I fell in love with basketball and never looked back. Just like any high school senior, I was looking for a college that “fit;” however, in my case, there were many considerations for “fit.” Because of COVID, all of my recruitment conversations with coaches were virtual. I talked to the University of Alabama, the University of Texas at Arlington, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, but I ultimately chose the University of Arizona.

The University of Arizona has one of the most dynamic wheelchair and adaptive sports communities in the United States. In the past 44 years, they have sent 51 athletes to the Paralympics. The Women’s Basketball team has won the NWBA Championship twice. Playing adaptive basketball at the D1 level is very intense. We practice five days a week and lift in the weight room three days a week. During the season, we travel to other colleges where we play both women’s and men’s teams.

Today, I’m a fourth-year student majoring in Rehabilitation Studies & Services. I’m also an aspiring Paralympian with hopes of one day making Team USA. I’ll be graduating in May 2025 to fully utilize my basketball eligibility. My goal is to earn my Doctorate of Occupational Therapy degree and work as an Occupational Therapist at a rehabilitation hospital.

All About Wheelchair Basketball

Wheelchair basketball is very similar to able-bodied basketball. There are five players on the court from each team, the hoops are the same height, and the court is the same size. There is no double dribble call, but there is a travel call – you can’t do more than two pushes without dribbling. Players use specialized wheelchairs that are lighter and faster than everyday wheelchairs. These wheelchairs are considered an extension of the players’ bodies, so it’s critical they are fitted properly. Wheelchairs can also be used to foul people. Many refer to wheelchair basketball as a mix of football, rugby, and basketball.

Lion Lines

New Father Lopez Visor Clips Created by Tommy Williams '90 and Karoline Rumps Brennan '82

The Monsignor Richard Lopez "Driving Prayer" has gone "mobile" on a visor clip and can be purchased in the St. Pius X Roar Store! The visor clip is the brainchild of Tommy Williams '90 in collaboration with Karoline Rumps Brennan '82, St. Pius X Roar Store Manager.

"I have been using the driving prayer that Father Lopez taught us every day for 30+ years. When I get in the car, it's the first thing that I do. It always reminds me of my faith and reminds me that no matter what's going on in my life on that particular day to calm down and focus safely on my driving." - Tommy Williams '90

Vince Molesky '77 won the 2023 New Hampshire PGA Senior Championship. He is a two-time winner, having first won in 2020. Vince, a PGA Member, has been a Head Professional at three different courses in New Hampshire since 2007. He also coached Newport High School to two consecutive NH State Golf Championships.

Kevin Cone '06, Assistant Athletic Director at Georgia Tech, has taken on a new role. He is now responsible for all student athlete development for all sports. We welcomed Kevin back on campus as a member of the Athletic Hall of Fame steering committee.

Kassandra Solsrud '13 graduated from Wayne State Medical School in June 2023. She started her residency in internal medicine at TriStar Health in Nashville, TN.

Class of '64 Annual Christmas Luncheon Hosted by Susan Seaver

Front row, l-r: Susan Lauria Seaver, Kathi Doran Jeffery, Julie Higgins Gribble, Joan Baker McIntosh, Mary Lu Ackermann Christiansen, Kathy Szabo

Back row, l-r: Patricia Broad Barret, Susan Murray Euart, Kathy McGregor Cyran, Kathi Flood McAlpin, Diane Ashkouti Domit, Kitty Hynes, Elaine DiChristina '63, Carol VanHouten Fain, Barbara Shook Hobson, Elizabeth Bennett Rogers.

Meg O'Connell '84, founder and CEO of Global Disability Inclusion, was one of the speakers at the 10th annual conference of the International Labor Organization (ILO) Global Business and Disability Network (GBDN) in November 2023. The conference, titled "Disability in sustainability efforts: businesses leading the way," took place at the ILO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Meg is an award-winning disability inclusion expert who has worked with some of the world's top brands across a variety of industries. At the conference, Meg O'Connell shared her insights from more than a decade of research on the global state of disability employee engagement and the workplace experiences of those with disabilities.

Lion Lines

On August 26, 2023, after 167 days of hiking, Nathan Banks '18 completed the 2,198.4-mile Appalachian Trail.

“Many people attempt to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. A very small percentage of those make it to the end. I’m incredibly blessed to have been one of those individuals. This trip has been by far the most difficult yet most rewarding thing I have ever accomplished. I am incredibly grateful for all the friends and memories I made along the way.”

Matt Morris '10 graduated from Harvard Law School in 2021. In 2024, he will clerk for Justice Elena Kagan on the United States Supreme Court. He is currently clerking for Chief Judge Sri Srinivasan on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, and previously clerked for Judge Randolph Moss on the United States District Court for the District of Columbia and Judge Loren AliKhan on the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. Prior to that, he worked as a Special Assistant Attorney General in the Office of the Solicitor General for the District of Columbia.

Alison Denzer-King '12 was the English Language Arts teacher for the 2022-23 eighth-grade class at Brilla College Prep that achieved an amazing 76% pass rate on New York City public schools’ English Language Arts (ELA) exam, up from a previous passing rate of 56%.

Alison began her teaching career in the Bronx with AmeriCorps, followed by a teaching position at a Catholic school on a Blackfeet reservation in Montana. After completing a master’s degree in English education at Harvard University, she taught at a large public school in Cambridge, MA, before moving to Brilla College Prep in the Bronx five years ago.

Alison emphasizes that her scholar’s exemplary scores weren’t due to a devotion to “test prep season” and were not “something that just happened at any one point…It was how we operated every day in class from the beginning of the year, focusing on building skills that matter. Some of that is the stuff they test on, and some of it isn’t.”

Scan QR code to read more of Alison's story.

Golden Rings

Sydney Morrison '19 and Jake Holder were engaged in December 2023 and are planning a wedding for early 2025. They both graduated from Auburn University in 2023. Jake is an officer in the Army and a paratrooper for the 82nd Airborne, stationed at Fort Bragg, and Sydney works for a marketing firm in Raleigh/Fayetteville, NC.

Bennett Travers '10 and William Camarda tied the knot on August 18, 2023 in Portsmouth, NH, where they live, surrounded by St. Pius X alums, including sister and maid of honor, Carson Travers Gasaway '14, and brother, Christopher Michael Travers '12, who officiated the wedding. The couple first crossed paths a decade ago in Europe. Bennett and William eagerly anticipate a future filled with love and exciting adventures, including the launch of a business venture in 2024. They extend heartfelt thanks to family, friends, and the St. Pius X community for their support as they embark on this new chapter together.

Darius Gittens '08 and Anna MacDonald were engaged in June 2023. Lieutenant Commander Gittens holds a Bachelor of Science in General Engineering from the United States Naval Academy (May 2012), a Master of Science in Space Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins University (May 2022), and became a member of the Defense Acquisition Corps in July 2022. Lieutenant Commander Gittens has accumulated more than 1,600 flight hours in 17 different aircraft. His personal awards include the Air Medal (strike), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement.

Andrew Hopkins '16 married Emily Olack on April 22, 2023 at St. Brigid Catholic Church in Johns Creek, GA. St. Pius X alums in the wedding party included Julian Mancini '16, Austin Schlueter '16, and Caroline Hopkins '20. The couple reside in Kansas City, MO where Andrew works as a Software Engineer for Garmin International, and Emily works as a Data Analyst for the Jackson County Public Health Department.

Thais Diaz '13 and Sam Bonnie '13 were married October 8, 2023, at San Lorenzo de El Escorial in Madrid, Spain. Katherine Murphy '13 was the Maid of Honor and Ryan Heard '13 and Calvin Jackson '13 were the Best Men. An additional 32 St. Pius X alumni were able to attend the wedding. Sam and Thais live in Atlanta, GA.

Brooks Amoroso '16 married Alexandra Turano, formerly of Annapolis, Maryland, on September 23, 2023, in Abingdon, Virginia. Brooks is an Assistant Superintendent with Brasfield & Gorrie and is currently part of the Truist Office building team at The Battery. Alexandra is a School Psychologist at Heards Ferry Elementary School and Riverwood International Charter School.

Alina Bills '14 married Juan Mencias on May 13, 2023. In attendance were, pictured l-r, Uncle Lorenzo Leon, Aunt Christina Leon '88, Abuelos Jesus and Consuelo Leon (former St. Pius X Spanish teacher and Foreign Languages Department Chair), groom Juan Mencias, bride Alina Bills Mencias '14, brother Ethan Bills '16, mother Consuelo Leon Ecuyer '86, and John Ecuyer.

Alec House '15 and Alexandra Howard '15 were married March 11, 2023 at Juliette Chapel in Dahlonega, GA. The wedding party included St. Pius X alumni Davis House '18, Loren House '19, and Andrew Brinson '15 The couple honeymooned in Italy and currently resides in Huntsville, AL.

Stefania Monti '14 and JD Manzo '14 were married on December 10, 2022 at Little River Farms in Milton, GA. They met in Health class sophomore year at St. Pius X and were together for 11 years before tying the knot.

Janet Brady '83 and Danny D'Amico '83 were engaged in October 2023. In May of 2024 they will join the past with the present and step into the future together. They became good friends while at St. Pius X and went to Homecoming together senior year. They parted ways for college but reconnected 33 years later at a “Celebration of Life” for a classmate’s father. A lunch date in June of 2023 lasted four hours, and by October of 2023, after seven dates, hundreds of hours of phone calls, texts, and emails, they decided not to part ways again.

Emily Jovert '14 and Josh Beck '14 were married on November 25, 2023 at The 173 Carlyle House in Norcross, GA. Emily Beck teaches PK-8 Art at OLA, and Josh is a PhD student at Georgia State University studying Criminology. The couple reconnected shortly before their fifth reunion and are looking forward to celebrating their 10th reunion this fall as a married couple. The bridal party included St. Pius X alumni Gabby Atlow '15 and Tim Beck '17.

Margaret Crawford '14 married Captain Tyler Belin, her longtime boyfriend from Notre Dame, on September 9, 2023 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah, GA. She was happy to celebrate with St. Pius X Class of 2014 friends, (pictured back row, l-r) Elizabeth Bonnie, Amanda Vocelka, Katherine Vocelka, Noelle Vocelka, Helen Woodland, (front row, l-r:) Emma Duke, and Jordan Allums

Golden Lion Cubs

Mary Hathaway

Lipscomb Busby '16 and her husband, John, welcomed John Caleb “Cal” Busby in December 2023. Cal is the seventh in a line of John Busbys going back to 1838.

Kelly Terracino

Stewart '12 and her husband, Todd, a former St. Pius X teacher and football coach, welcomed Bailey Ruby Stewart on July 14, 2023. Bailey was 6 lbs, 13 oz and 20 in long.

Stuart Collier

Jan Collier, former St. Pius X teacher (pictured right)

Mary Hannah

Rumely Magrath '10 and Sean Magrath '10 welcomed daughter Hadley Claire on July 5, 2023.

Megan Fannon Savage ’09 and her husband, Cody, welcomed Nash Michael Savage on January 23, 2024. Megan is a St. Pius X Cheer and Track Coach and a teacher at OLA.

'10 and his wife, Emily, welcomed a daughter, Claire Frances, on August 24, 2023. Claire is the granddaughter of

Javier Goizueta ’77 and his wife, Dolores, along with his son, Javier and Javier's wife, Megan, celebrated the baptism of their twin grandsons, Javier and Ignacio, on December 3, 2023.

Paul McNeil

Melissa Lummus Nicholson '10 and her husband, Cody, welcomed daughter Hadley Ann Nicholson on July 15, 2023.

Alexandra Karr Jones '10 and her husband, Mitchell, welcomed their first child, Hudson Mitchell Jones, on July 6, 2023.

Tonnie Cassandra, St. Pius X Business and Computer Science Department Chair, and her husband, John, welcomed their third child, Jacob Flynn Cassandra, on December 22, 2023. Jacob joins big sisters Rosemarie and Valerie.

'12, St. Pius X theology teacher, and his wife, Ashlyn, welcomed Cecilia on March 24, 2023. Her older siblings, Luke, 2, and Pia, 4, are in love with her.

In Memoriam

(Listings as reported to St. Pius X as of January 23, 2024. Contact alumni@spx.org with news to share.)

Blanca Anton – December 27, 2023

Mother of Annie Anton '84

Carlos Auger '92 – January 20, 2024

Brother of Federico '96 and Jose '97

Jeanne Batten – January 1, 2024

Mother of Brigid Batten Bollweg '98, Katie Batten Wheeler '01, Reilly Batten '10, and Jason Batten

Thomas Joel Belt, III '66 - November 7, 2023

Husband of Jill, and father of Brandy Lanphear and Amy Carwile

Mary Bergh – November 2, 2023

Former Science teacher at St. Pius X

Kevin Bulter '90 – December 1, 2023

Stepfather of Justin January '16

Persy Burnette - September 23, 2023

Son of Brittany Holsonback Burnette '04 and Ryan Burnette, brother of Kepler Burnette, and nephew to Jennifer Holsonback Austin '99 and Matthew Sorensen '17

Maria Planes Chandler – November 5, 2023

Grandmother of Will Broxterman '20, Sophia Broxterman '21, Ava Broxterman '24 and Michael John Broxterman

Wesley "Wes" David Chavis - July 16, 2023

Husband of Dr. Bridgid Lammers Chavis '02, son-in-law to retired St. Pius X teacher, Matt Lammers '74, and his wife, Beth Lammers, brother-in-law to Meghan Lammers Palmer '06, father to sons Samuel, James, and Lyle Chavis

Pamela Joe Davidson - August 15, 2023

Mother of Rachel Davidson Sulhoff, Julia Davidson Wright, and Spencer Davidson '06 (former St. Pius X Assistant Varsity Boys Basketball Coach)

Diane Fechtel Deriso '59 - October 7, 2023

Twin sister of Susan Fechtel Pittman '59 (deceased), mother of Kathryn DerisoSchwartz, Leslie Deriso, and George T. Deriso III

Maggie Dunn – December 20, 2023

Grandmother of Zach Eichenberg '25

Marianne Inman Ellis '69 – December 11, 2023

Wife of Guy, and mother of Christopher and Karen

James Jonathan “Jay” Flowers IV '77July 4, 2023

Wife of Karen, brother of Lynn Flowers '78 (deceased), Dave Flowers '79 (deceased), Carol Flowers '80, and Andrew Flowers

Gary Furin - November 30, 2023

Father of Brandt Furin, David Furin '88, Billy Furin '93, Adèle Furin Coburn '96, and Andre Furin

James "Jimmy" Keller Harper, Jr.November 9, 2023

Wife of Claire, father of Kel Harper, Claire Harper Anderson '77, and Beth Harper Fortune '81

Mark Huffman – November 24, 2023

Husband of Tara Hill, father of St. Pius X student Elijah Huffman

Helen Sandoli Janicek - April 14, 2023

Mother of Cherylann Janicek Sladek '70, Marie Janicek '72, Francesca Janicek Lee, Katherine Janicek Hyatt '77, Susan Janicek, and Theresa Janicek '83

Victor Kramer – December 3, 2023

Father of Jerome Kramer ’84 and Sarah Kramer '01

Juanita Lang - December 24, 2023

Mother of Monique Lang ’80, Dr. Angelique Lang Rodgers ’81, Dr. Nicole Lang ’85, and grandmother of Matthew Rodgers ’16 and Sydney Rodgers ‘18

Kirk Marston '87- December 6, 2023

Brother of Eric Marston '85, wife of Carla, father of Josey Marston O’Bryan, Stephen Marston, and Lloyd Marston

Jeanne "Bonnie" Guillory McAllisterDecember 13, 2023

Mother of Michael McAllister, Melanie McAllister Terwilliger, Leigh McAllister

Bentley '83, Jeanne McAllister Queen '86, and grandmother of 12, including Henry Queen '17, William Queen '19, Lawton Queen '22, Blayne Gibson '14, Anderson

Gibson '16, Shug Bentley '23, Reid

Bentley '25, Morgan McAllister

Krulisky '06, and Mason McAllister '15

Sister Margaret McAnoy – December 14, 2023

Former teacher of Religion at St. Pius X from 1969-1974. Sister Margaret had just celebrated her 70th jubilee.

Karen McDonough - January 9, 2024

Mother of Jamie '96, Anne McDonough

Dimitrious '00, and Carolyn McDonough McCord '05

Erik Miller - November 5, 2023

Husband of Molly Griffin Miller '01 and father of Parker Miller

Velma C. Mohr – January 23, 2024

Mother to Greg '77, Michael '79, Lisa Mohr Bir '81, Christopher '85, Philip, and Anne Mohr Rigdon; grandmother to Meredith Mohr Comerford '14, Joe Mohr '15, Dan Mohr '18, James Bir '19, Natalie Mohr '21 and Paul Bir '23

Susan Irene Moore - September 15, 2023

Sister of Monsignor Richard Lopez

James "Jamey" Edward Propst - September 9, 2023

Husband of Milam McGraw Propst '63 and the father of Amanda Propst '90, William Propst, and Jay Propst

Nancy Alexander Nagle '73 - October 7, 2023

Mother of Charlie Nagle, sister of Nina Alexander '71, Ed Alexander '74, and former St. Pius X Football Coach, John Alexander '80

Harry Ollinger III '67 - July 22, 2023

Brother of Mary Jane "Mimi" Ollinger Stephens '65, Fred Ollinger, Susie Ollinger Leckness, William "Marty" Ollinger '74, Phillip Ollinger, and James "Jimmy" Ollinger '80

Barry Richardson – January 12, 2024

Father of Kevin Richardson '84, grandfather of Brendan Richardson '97 and Mai Richardson '08

Jason Rohan '92 - September 30, 2023

Son of Marcia and Howard Rohan, brother of Todd Rohan and Elizabeth Rohan Benson. He is also survived by his St. Joseph Hospital Family whom he was privileged to work with for 29 years.

Frances Robilio Ruffin - November 1, 2023

Wife of John Ruffin, mother of John Ruffin, Jr., Cheryl Ruffin Walz '78, Andi Ruffin Weir '79, Dana Ruffin Redwine '82, Theresa Ruffin Jones '85, and the grandmother of Robert Weir '20, Maggie Weir '16, and John Weir '18

John Schupp - November 24, 2023

Husband of long-time St. Pius X employee Liz Schupp, father of Matt Schupp '98, Rebecca Schupp '02, and Brennan Schupp

Liv Teverino - September 18, 2023

Daughter of Beth Molloy Teverino '90 and Scot Teverino, sister of Luke and Brendan Teverino, niece of Mike Molloy '92 and Jennifer Molloy Williamson '94, and granddaughter of Betty Wible Molloy '61

Gary Tkac '69 – January 16, 2024

Husband of Debbie, brother of John Tkac '65

Margaret Mary Bottchen Wiessel '61September 5, 2023

Sister of Rose Bottchen Taylor, mother of Susan Wiessel Vining and Holly Wiessel Van Thullenar

Carolyn Wilson – November 4, 2023

Mother of Shaunda Wilson '79, Parker Wilson '82, Shannon Wilson Shipley '87, and Shari Wilson Bramlett '96

Mary Wolf – December 21, 2023

Mother of Wendy Wolf Grimes '88

Richard Yelton – December 16, 2023

Husband of Adela Yelton, and father of Michael and St. Pius X students, Christian and Ryan

Deslyn Williams '20

- October 17, 2023

Deslyn Williams, the daughter of Desmond Williams and Olive Williams, was a student at Pepperdine University. She was an exceptionally smart and motivated student who pushed herself to excel in her studies. Deslyn was the rare type of person who never met a stranger and made everyone feel loved. She had a warm and generous spirit and really cared about her friends and family.

St. Pius X will always remember Deslyn as a student who lived our values of strong character, deep faith, and service to others.

Mike Rubesch '75 – January 6, 2024

Mike Rubesch was the brother of Laura Wilson ’81, husband of Jeanne, and father of Justine, Bradley, and Kurt. He was a four-year soccer player at St. Pius X and a member of the men’s soccer team at Erskine College. He began his coaching career at St. Pius X in 1980, leading the Boys' Soccer team to three consecutive Georgia Final Four appearances. He was the head coach of Emory's first two women's soccer teams in 1986 and 1987. Rubesch took over head coaching duties for the men's program in 1988 and led the Eagles for 19 seasons. During his Emory coaching career, Rubesch's teams compiled an overall record of 236-99-22 and he guided the Eagles to eight NCAA tournaments along with five University Athletic Association titles. He was elected to the Emory Athletics Hall of Fame in 2018.

After leaving Emory, he moved to South Africa and worked as Chief Scout and Coach for Ajax Cape Town. He was owner and coach at the Overstrand Soccer Academy in his residence of Hermanus, South Africa.

Jerry Stewart – January 10, 2024

Jerry Stewart was the husband of Sharon, father of Kevin, Kim, Shannon, and Todd, father-in-law of Kelly Terracino

Stewart '12, and grandfather of 11 grandchildren. Coach Stewart was the Defensive Coordinator for St. Pius X Football from 2003-2016 and a PE teacher until his retirement in 2017.

Jerry taught and coached at Tucker High School, Shiloh High School, and Parkview High School. Upon retiring from public school education after 32 years, Jerry continued his career at St. Pius X where his two-year plan turned into a treasured 14 years. His sincere love and interest in others' lives shone in his daily interactions with faculty, staff, and students. He had an incredible gift of making people feel valued and special.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. Let perpetual light shine upon them. And may the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Amen.

St. Pius X Catholic High School

2674 Johnson Road, NE

Atlanta, Georgia 30345-1720

404/633-4290

www.spx.org

Do you have news to share? We’d love to hear from you!

If you have news to share with the St. Pius X community, please contact Laura O’Connell, Communications Coordinator, at loconnell@spx.org.