Dear Alumni and Friends of St. Francis Prep, September marks the start of my 10th year as President of St. Francis Prep, and I am very gratified by the tremendous strides we have made with our new and updated facilities, our steady enrollment, our academic and extracurricular programming, the extraordinary commitment of our faculty and staff and, most importantly, the success of our students. But I am especially thankful for what we accomplished this past year as we came out of the pandemic and moved “full steam ahead,” resuming our regular classroom schedule together with a full slate of alumni activities and events.
All 579 of our seniors graduated this past June 4th at a ceremony held at St. John’s University. And 99% of these seniors are attending college this fall. As of this writing, they were offered more than $170 million in merit scholarship awards for their college education!
The success of these seniors (and all our students) remains a tribute to YOUR generous support which allows us to continue to offer a truly outstanding academic and extracurricular program in the Franciscan tradition.
Thankfully, since the start of the pandemic in the spring of 2020 we haven’t lost a single student due to a family’s inability to pay tuition. This is because #TerrierSTAR (our Student Tuition Assistance and Relief effort) helped me fulfill my pledge that NO student would be denied an education at St. Francis Prep due to financial hardship caused by the coronavirus. Since then, we have focused on building our existing scholarship fund portfolio and establishing new scholarship funds, and the initial response has been tremendous. Our cover story in this edition of GradNews showcases a number of our recent students who have
benefited from your scholarship and sponsorship support. So please know that your ongoing involvement in our work continues to result in the success of approximately 2,400 students who come from all walks of life. (Our enrollment remains very strong.) Your wonderful generosity has also helped create beautiful new and updated facilities that accommodate the highest-quality programming at the high school level. (See pages 30-33 for The Campaign for St. Francis Prep donor recognition illustrations.)
Within these pages you will also see highlights from the numerous events and activities we conducted this past year— many of which were held for the first-time in several years and even “doubled-up” in the case of our class reunions. (If you recall, we were forced to postpone or cancel most of our events in 2020-21, so 2022 became our “make-up” year.)
Take a look at the event calendar for this upcoming year as well. We look forward to seeing you again at an Alumni Class Reunion, an Alumni Professional Chapter event, Homecoming Weekend, our Annual Memorial Mass & Brunch or at our June Golf Classic.
In the meantime, thank you very much once again for everything you do in support of St. Francis Prep. Always remember: High School is four years but the Prep is forever!
Yours in St. Francis,
Brother Leonard Conway, O.S.F. President
St. Francis Prep’s 2022-2023
12th Annual Walk-a-thon September 30, 2022
3-on-3 Hoops Tournament in memory of Jimmy ‘79 and James Prendergast ‘H11 and Brian O’Connor ‘86
Thursday, October 20, 2022 St. Francis Prep Gym
Homecoming Football Game Saturday, October 22, 2022
7:30 pm at Mitchel Field
Annual First Responders Family Day and 5K Fun Run
Sunday, October 23, 2022
Annual Mass of Remembrance
St. Francis Prep’s Auditorium
Sunday, November 6, 2022
Education Alumni Chapter Reception
Thursday, November 10, 2022
10 th, 15th and 20th Anniversary Class Reunions
Saturday, January 28, 2023
Class of 2013 - 10th Anniversary Class of 2008 - 15th Anniversary Class of 2003 - 20th Anniversary
Florida Area Alumni Reception & Spring Training Game (West Coast-Tampa Area) Saturday, March 4, 2023
NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 17, 2023
Annual President’s Dinner Saturday, March 25, 2023
Annual Spring Reunion and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Saturday, May 6, 2023
29th Annual Golf Classic Cherry Valley Club Monday, June 19, 2023
Note: Additional Alumni Career Chapter Events will be added when scheduled.
Ron Alama ‘86
Diane Bertoli ‘81
Luz A. Bove ‘97
Charles Casolaro ‘88
Sal Cocchiaro ‘13
Nancy L. Demers ‘91
Nancy M. Donato ‘76
Alice Dunkak Quinn ‘79
Chirag Jethanandani ‘11
Michelle Kawka ‘95
Bro. Campion Lally, O.S.F. ‘55
Eileen LeMonda ‘78
Patrick J. McArdle ‘89
John McAree ‘50
Deirdre McDonough ‘81
Angelica
John
Marlon
Kevin
John S.
Margret
Donna
Samantha
Lawrence Schiralli
Kathy Mackin Sciortino
Kristina
ST. FRANCIS ALUMNI BOARD
Throughout the pages of this publication, you’ll read about all of the wonderful accomplishments and activities of today’s fine students and dedicated faculty, staff and administration. The Franciscan charism influenced every aspect of education at Saint Francis Prep. Encouraging our students to grow in faith, engage in activities to help others and serve as a part of a team or club member attests to the presence of the Spirit of St. Francis of Assisi in our midst.
I am sure you will gain a renewed sense of pride and greater awareness of why your ongoing support means so much to Prep!
This past June 4th, St. Francis Prep celebrated the one hundred sixty fourth commencement of the Class of 2022 at St. John’s University. We honored the class of 2022 and celebrated their incredible achievements. Not only did 100% of our seniors graduate, but 99% will attend college this fall. Members of the Class of 2022 have been accepted to more than 300 colleges and universities. They have been offered over $170 million in college merit scholarships over the next four years. The accomplishments of all our fine students provided joyful affirmation to all parents and guardians that their decision to send their children to St. Francis Prep was the wisest and most beneficial choice. There is little doubt that the entire educational experience afforded these students was rooted in profound care on the part of all who contributed to this combined effort. The faculty, staff and administration pooled all their talents
to foster the development and growth of young minds, as they do unvaryingly each year, but especially this year on account of the host of challenges met and overcome during the pandemic.
I would like to take the time to formally acknowledge these individuals who contributed so much of themselves to our students, and who have now decided to retire to greener pastures, after their years of service to the school. On behalf of the school community, I would like to thank: Joseph Sciame, for his 37 years of service in Science and Business Departments; and from the Social Studies Department Charles Jardines for his 25 years of service. We also would like to salute Sharon Bennett, for her 15 years of service to the Science Department and Ellen Schuler for her 11 years of service in the Mathematics Department. Altogether, this represents a combined 88 years of loyal service to the Prep. We salute all of them for their commitment and many years of service. We thank them for the profound impact they have made on the lives of those in their care. We are grateful that they have been our partners in our Franciscan Mission. Let us bid them a fond farewell. Now it’s time for them to smell the proverbial roses.
On Thursday, September 30th, 2021 we celebrated the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi with a liturgy offered by Father Ralph Edel. At this time, The Canticle Citation for 15 years of service was presented to: Michael Agulio, Kristie Beck, Jeorge Espinal, Adrian Gonzalez,
Diane Haussermann, Frances Jimenez, Murat Karaca, Abelardo Leston, James Lynch and AnnMarie Pedalino. The Canticle Citation for 40 years of service was presented to Patrick McLaughlin. The President’s Award was presented to Ellen Arfranis for 15 years of Service.
At this junction we would like to acknowledge the following achievements:
• Eric Hafker ‘86 received the Faculty/Staff Franciscan Spirit Award
• Brendan Carroll ’22 received the Student Franciscan Spirit Award
• The Alfred E. Powers Memorial Award for outstanding male student athlete was presented to Michael Koenig ’22
• The Shelia Barrett Memorial Award for outstanding female student athlete was presented to Samantha Raic ’22
• This year’s recipient of Faculty Educational Excellence was awarded to Kevin Petry of the Science Department and Jeorge Espinal of the Foreign Language Department.
• This year’s recipient of Staff Recognition for Excellence was awarded to Jacqueline Mancuso of the Finance Department and Paul DeBenedittis of the Technology Department.
• The General Excellence Award and this year’s Valedictorian was Valerie Franchitti ’22
• Brendan Carroll ’22 was Salutatorian.
On Saturday, March 26, 2022 the Third Red and Blue Ring of Honor was held to recognize the outstanding achievements of our past athletes, coaches, moderators and athletic directors, as well as others who have contributed their athletic talent to the Prep. It is because of men and women such as them that the reputation of the school has been enhanced beyond the confines of the school itself. So, it was only fitting that their contributions finally be honored. We at Prep salute them and thank them for giving so much to their Alma Mater. Incidentally, the event proved quite memorable, as close to 750 people gathered to pay tribute to our athletic giants of the past. We will forever be grateful to them and will continue to honor them in the future.
As we welcome our new students, the class of 2026 this fall, we would like to take this opportunity to invite our alumni, benefactors, and friends to attend one or more of the many alumni events throughout the year (See our Alumni Event calendar herein).
As fall approaches, may the Spirit of St. Francis of Assisi provide us with a confidence that these uncertain times will inevitably unite us and that our nation and way of life will ultimately prevail.
In closing, let us openly proclaim our heartfelt gratitude to all our loyal alumni, benefactors and friends. It is obvious that we can achieve nothing without them. After all these years, I still continue to be proud of the Prep Community for its fine dedication to the pursuit of excellence, for its tireless concern for all those entrusted to its care, and for its anticipated unwavering commitment to the next 165 years.
As always, I am grateful to the members of the Alumni Board for all they have done and will continue to do for St. Francis Prep. Thank you for your unfailing support. May the Blessings of St. Francis of Assisi be with you and your family, now and all the days of your life. “High School Is Four Years; St. Francis Prep Is Forever”
In Gratitude,
Brother Robert Kent, O.S.F. Alumni Director
Congratulations to the following Prep Faculty & Staff who welcomed New additions to their families
Tom (Math Dept.) and Alissa Burns on announced the birth of their daughter, Olivia Marie Burns on May 10, 2022.
Monica (Social Studies) and David Robertson welcomed a son, Erik Junior Robertson into the world on April 20, 2022.
Congratulations to Joseph ‘06 (Music) and Lanie Brusca on the birth of their son Joseph Jaime Brusca, born on February 9, 2022.
Sarah Oliveri (Social Studies) and her husband Michael were blessed with the birth of their son, John Michael on February 8 2022.
Congratulations to Patrick ‘07 (Social Studies) and Mary Kate McLaughlin who announced the birth of their daughter, Ayla Maeve McLaughlin on January 25, 2022.
Congratulations to Courtney ‘07 (Attendance) and Anthony Yepez on the birth of their daughter, Jolie James Yepez, born August 9, 2021.
Caitlin (Science) and Matthew Demeo welcomed a daughter, Claire Marie, born on February 17, 2021
Congratulations to Marinna (World Languages) and Abe Aulov on the birth of their beautiful baby boy Amir James. He was born on April 12, 2022.
Homecoming Weekend began on Thursday, October 21, 2021 with a Three-on-Three Basketball Tournament. This event honors the memory of Jimmy 79, his father James Prendergast ‘H11 and Brian O’Connor ‘86. More than 100 alumni, friends and family members came out to support and participate in the event. Raffles, prizes and refreshments were all part of the evening. For registration on the 2022 Tournament, please visit the SFP Alumni Website at alumni.sfponline.org. See the calendar for the complete 2022 Homecoming Weekend schedule of events.
On Saturday, October 23rd, Alumni, family and friends gathered at Belmont Park for the Annual Homecoming Day at the Races. Guests were invited to the Winner’s Circle to meet the jockey who rode the winning horse in the race dedicated to St. Francis Prep. Aside from the winnings at the betting windows, one lucky guest took home the proceeds of our 50/50 Raffle.
Due to construction and renovation at Belmont Race Track, a different event will be held in its place this year.
Photos: Mike Graziano
Clockwise from top right: The Prendergast family members Maura ‘76 and Joan H’11 with Alumni Board leaders Gerry Scales ‘76 and Wally Bishop ‘80. The family of the late Brian O’Connor ‘86. Brother Robert with alumni board volunteers (l-r): Nancy Donato ‘76, Nancy Demers ‘91, Bro. Robert Kent, Alice Dunkak-Quinn ‘79 and Samantha Rooney ‘19
Photos: Mike Graziano
More than 200 alumni, friends and family members participated in all aspects of the annual First Responders 5K Fun Run and Walk on Sunday, October 24th. There were plenty of raffle prizes, food and drink. The 2021 honorees were Mark Hamlin ‘84, Assistant Chief of Police, Tampa Police Department (Ret.); Eddie Boles ‘81, Battalion Chief, FDNY & John Corbisiero ‘82, Inspector, NYPD. Prep also recognized the healthcare workers who were front and center in the fight against COVID-19. During a riveting and poignant ceremony, roses were placed atop of a memorial banner in honor of all of the members of the SFP community who were lost on 9/11.
The event committee, Denise Tracey ‘80, Robert Cottumaccio ‘80, and Barbara Gillispie ‘80 and Wally Bishop ‘80 expressed their appreciation to everyone for coming out for the Prep and in honor of these heroic first responders.
Pictured:
(1) Paying tribute to FDNY’s Michael“Big Mike” Lynch ‘86; his sister, Bernadette (Lynch) Rafferty and widow, Denise Lynch.
(2) Brian Fink ‘04 crosses the finish line. (3) Honoree Eddie Boles ‘81
(4) The SFP Cheerleaders welcomed members of the NYPD, FDNY and PAPD and filled the day with spirit.
(5) Marlon Morris ‘84 and his wonderful daughter, Sophia Morris ‘25 helped bring out the Terrier spirit. Marlon is an Alumni Board Member and Football alumnus, (6) Event organizers (l-r): Wally Bishop ‘80, Barbara Gillespie ‘82 and Denise Tracy ‘80 present, 2021 honoree, John Corbisiero ‘82 with an SFP sweater. (7) Ceremonial Unit representatives from NYPD, FDNY & PAPD were present.
The First Responders Memorial Scholarship Fund was established at St. Francis Prep through the generosity of Christopher J. Greene and Teresa Downing-Greene ‘81 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of September 11, 2001 and to honor the selfless sacrifice of all first responders. The scholarship award will be presented on September 11th each year in memory of a fallen hero and member of the Police Department, Fire Department or Emergency Medical Team who made the ultimate sacrifice either on 9/11 or in the performance of their duties before or after the tragic events of 9/11. The scholarship fund will ease the burden of tuition each year for a deserving senior student and preference will be given (but not limited to) children of Police, Fire or Emergency Medical personnel. The first scholarship award honored the memory of Matthew Garvey ‘81 who was a member of the FDNY’s elite Squad 1 and a highly decorated military veteran who served in Beirut, Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield.
On 9/11, Mathew and his fellow squad members aided in the evacuation of thousands of people from the south tower of the World Trade Center. The tower’s collapse killed him and his entire squad.
Prep senior, Nadia Hardy ‘22 was the proud recipient of the 2021 inaugural scholarship award. Pictured above: Father Ralph Edel (Chaplain); Patrick McLaughlin (SFP Principal); Christopher J. Greene (Benefactor) Bro. Leonard Conway (President); Teresa Downing-Greene ‘81 (Benefactor); Nadia Hardy (Inaugural Scholarship Recipient); Nadia’s mother, Terel and grandmother; Denise Tracey ‘80 (Alumni Board); Wally Bishop ‘80 (Alumni Board President) Bro. Robert Kent (Alumni Director) and Robert T. Angeletti (Director of Development) Photo inset: Matthew Garvey ‘81. Pictured right: With the Prep Alumni Memorial 9/11 banner as the backdrop, Teresa Downing-Greene ‘81 speaks about Mathew Garvey’s life of courageous service, scholarship, and achievements.
On November 11th, SFP honored those who served with a special assembly of are the thank all those who participated: Jonathan Ally ‘16, Marines Kevin Carroll Kevin Halpin Francis Higbie James McDermott
On May 11th, State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky and Assemblywoman Nily Rozic presided over a ceremony for renaming of the LIE overpass located at Francis Lewis Boulevard and Horace Harding Expressway as “Detective Anastasios Tsakos Memorial Bridge.” This event memorialized the one-year anniversary of the passing of NYPD Highway Officer Anastasios Tsakos who was killed in the line of duty. Stavisky and Rozic were joined by Irene Tsakos, various units of the NYPD, the NYC PBA President, Patrick J. Lynch, and members of the local community (Pictured at right) Prep’s Principal, Patrick McLaughlin ‘73 welcomes two Prep alumni who were part of the ceremony (l-r): Meagan Molina ‘10 (Chief of Staff for Nily Rozic) and Joseph Marziliano ‘08 (District Manager at Community Board 11, Queens)
On February 10th, St. Francis Prep was honored to welcome Bishop Robert Brennan who is serving the people of Brooklyn and Queens as the as the Eighth Bishop of Brooklyn. (He succeeds Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio who retired in November 2021.) Bishop Brennan met with Prep students, faculty, and staff. Pictured above: Bishop Brennan spoke to students and answered questions in the Prep’s newly renovated chapel.
Photos by Mike Graziano
To view the photo gallery on the St. Francis Preparatory School Facebook page, scan the QR code:
Here’s how:
1. Open the camera app.
2. Select the rear-facing camera in Photo or Camera mode.
3. Center the QR code that you want to scan on the screen and hold your phone steady for a couple of seconds.
4. Tap the notification that pops up to open the link. (You will need to be connected to the internet to do this.)
Class of 1990 • 30th Anniversary Reunion Class of 1985 • 35th Anniversary Reunion Class of 1995 • 30th Anniversary Reunion Photos by Lisa Schaefer-HeuerEach year, St. Francis Prep recognizes the numerous contributions of some of our finest graduates at the Hall of Fame. We celebrated these well-deserved honors along with the return of our special Reunion Anniversary Class members. This event was been postponed for the past two years due to the pandemic. However, we “made up for lost time” and celebrated the return of the members of the 25th, 30th, 35th, 40th, 45th, 50th, 55th, 60th, 65th 70th and 75thAnniversary Classes from the past two years along with the current year. This year the Spring Reunion was held over the course of two back-to-back weekends in May. (See page 11.)
Each year at the Spring Reunion, the St. Francis Prep Alumni Board inducts a few distinguished alumni into the Hall of Fame. At the same time, we also recognize loyal and supportive members of the Prep community who are not graduates, by bestowing the status of Honorary Alumnus upon them. The formal induction of our 2020 Hall of Fame Class took place on May 14, 2022 in The Brother Ralph Clifford Memorial Auditorium just prior to the Annual Alumni Spring Reunion celebration.
“We were delighted to honor Peter Corritori ’59, Bro. Owen Justinian Sadlier O.S.F ’62, LeeAnn Canavan-Black ’79” said Bro. Robert Kent, SFP’s Alumni Director. In addition, William Skody was recognized as an Honorary Alumnus. Congratulations to all of our wonderful honorees!
The follow members of the Alumni Board were acknowledged for their years of service and dedication:
Peter Corritori ’59
Bro. Owen Justinian Sadlier O.S.F ’62
LeeAnn Canavan-Black ’79 William
The Annual Florida Alumni Chapter Reception is a favorite among alumni living in and traveling to the Sunshine State. The event rotates between the west coast and east coast. And traditionally, we reserve and sell out more than four dozen tickets to a Spring Training Game. This year the MLB and the MLB Players’ Association ownerimposed lockout thwarted that, but it didn’t affect our Terrier Spirit.
The event was held on Saturday, March 5th and began with a celebration of Mass at St. Bernadette’s Catholic Church in Port St. Lucie, FL. Just prior to the start of Mass, Diocese of Brooklyn transplant, Father Victor A. Ulto welcomed Prep’s Principal, Bro. Leonard Conway and Alumni Director, Bro. Robert Kent. (See photo on the next page.)
Following Mass, the reception was held in the spacious parish hall with 30 alumni in attendance! Special thanks to our hosts Joanne and Bill Dunn ‘59!
Pictured above:
(1) Maura (Prendergast) O’Hara ‘76 & Gerry Scales ‘76
(2) Brother Robert Kent and Daniel Sosa ’96
(3) Steve Banas ‘81 and his lovely wife, Teresa.
(4) Peggy and Eddie Andrie ‘57
Photos by Mike Graziano
Pictured (l-r): Prep’s President, Brother Leonard Conway, Father Victor Ulto (St. Bernadette’s pastor who hails from the Diocese of Brooklyn) and Brother Robert Kent, SFP Alumni Director. Pictured at right: A view of the altar from the pews. Completed in 2010, St. Bernadette’s reflects the Roman Gothic architectural style of the 12th century and the cultural influences of St. Bernadette’s native France.
Florida Area Alumni were delighted
ev
Mass at St. Bernadette’s Catholic Church
After being postponed in each of the last two years due to the pandemic, we celebrated the “2020” Inductees on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at the Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury, NY. More than 800 guests (alumni, family members and friends) were in attendance! We enjoyed celebrating the achievements of these wonderful Terriers!
Photos by Evelyn Diaz ‘88 and Mike Graziano
Photos by Evelyn Diaz ‘88, Nancy Demers ‘91 and Mike Graziano
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The Prep’s Annual President’s Dinner was held “live and in-person” on Saturday, April 9th in the Prep’s newly renovated cafeteria. This longstanding tradition is a salute to all of the loyal alumni, parents, faculty, staff, trustees and friends whose generosity at the “leadership” giving level helped St. Francis Prep in many wonderful ways during the past year. (The event was held “virtually” during the previous two years due to the pandemic.)
The evening began with a Mass celebrated by SFP Chaplain, Fr. Ralph Edel in the newly remodeled and renamed Our Lady of the Angels Chapel. Former chaplain, Fr. Bill Sweeney (who is currently Pastor of St. Francis DeSales, Belle Harbor) was also present to concelebrate. As Mass concluded the chapel was “officially” dedicated.
After mass, more than 200 guests enjoyed the musical talents of the St. Francis Prep String Orchestra, under the direction of faculty member, Robert Johnston. After the cocktail hour, Franciscan Brothers Superior General, Brother Gabriel O’Brien, O.S.F. offered an opening prayer and welcomed everyone. Just prior to dinner being served, Prep’s President, Brother Leonard Conway, O.S.F. updated guests on the significant and historic development efforts achieved through our benefactors as well as the relentless dedication of the faculty/staff and administration. SFP Principal, Patrick J. McLaughlin ‘73 provided an overview on the many academic achievements and how our faculty, staff and students prevailed over the challenges presented by the pandemic.
Two representatives of the Class of 2022, Amanda Morris ‘22 and Brendan Carroll ‘22 spoke reverently about the faculty/ staff providing them with a great preparation for college. The also shared how their fellow classmates and the Prep environment helped inspire them to develop their talents and decide what to study in college. Brendan R. Carroll ‘22 will be attending Georgetown University and Amanda K. Morris will be attending Quinnipiac University.
SFP Director of Campus Ministry, Dr. Christian Sullivan, who led the Chapel Renovation process also spoke recognizing the members of the Chapel Design Committee, designers and builders of the space, and all the generous supporters of the project.
Pictured above: (1) Brother Gabriel O’Brien, O.S.F., Superior General provided a welcome and opening prayer. (2) Prep’s President, Brother Leonard Conway, O.S.F. provided an update on all of the wonderful developments at the Prep. Pictured below: (3) Mr. Robert Johnston of the SFP Music Department (String Studies) (4) The dedicated and talented students in the Prep’s String Orchestra performed at the cocktail hour.
Pictured on this page: (5) Benefactors and guests in the newly renovated chapel. (6) Father Ralph Edel (Prep’s Chaplain) and Fr. Bill Sweeney (7) Campus Ministry Director, Christian Sullivan, Ph.D. (8) l-r: Joan Prendergast, Father Bill Sweeney, Bro. Leonard Conway, Carol Szostek, Gerry and
“The chapel was rebuilt with the idea that it is not only a worship space, but a teaching space for those who are growing in their spiritual development,” said Prep’s Chaplain, Fr. Ralph Edel.
Among the many aims of the redesign was to maximize space and create greater seating capacity. The “bench-style” pews were replaced with cushioned chairs. This increased the total number of sanctuary seats and provided for more comfortable and flexible seating arrangements.
The altar was been relocated to the opposite side of the room and is in front of the stained-glass windows. The windows are now more prominent. “On a sunny day, the natural light that shines through the windows casts beautiful colors into the room and effectively changes the color of the walls and floors,” said Christian Sullivan, Ph.D. SFP’s Director of Campus Ministry.
The chapel entryway doors are framed by floor-to-ceiling glass “sidelight windows” which offer a generous view into the chapel from the hallway. Fr. Ralph said, “It was designed to be more open so as to ‘invite’ students into this sacred space,”
• The Franciscan Devotional Wall (see next page)
• The sanctuary wall is adorned with a large San Damiano crucifix reminiscent of the one at which St. Francis of Assisi heard God’s message: “Go and Rebuild My Church”.
• The Marian Devotional Wall honors the long-standing tradition of the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn to dedicate their chapels to Our Lady of the Angels.
We are grateful to all those who contributed their “time, talent and treasure” to make this possible in particular:
Cathy and Mike Henning ’57 Sanctuary Donors.
Phyllis Gambino-Skody, ‘90 and William J. Skody, H ’20
The first Mass in the new chapel was celebrated for the Brothers’ community, faculty and staff members on September 8, 2021.
(1) Chapel Sanctuary Donors, Phyllis Gambino-Skody ‘90 (Athletics Dept.) and her husband, William Skody H’20 pose for a photo at dinner. (2) Bro. Bill Boslet (who once served as the Prep’s Alumni Director) and Alumni Board President, Wally Bishop ‘80
(4) The family of student guest speaker, Amanda Morris ‘22 (l-r): Amanda’s mom, Michele (Wiese) Morris ‘89, her sister, Brianna ‘26, Amanda ‘22 and her dad, Wayne Morris ‘88 Amanda will be attending Quinnipiac University.
(3) The Family of student guest speaker, Brendan Carroll (l-r): Brendan R. Carroll ‘22, Anna Lavin-Carroll ‘88 and Brian Carroll. Brendan will be attending Georgetown University.
The Franciscan Devotional Wall in the Our Lady of the Angels Chapel at St. Francis Prep
Fr. Ralph Edel blessing the new chapel.
Saint Benedict the Moor Saint Clare of Assisi Saint Francis of Assisi Saint Marianne Cope Saint Maximillian Kolbe
The Annual Walk-a-thon Benefits Prep Students and more than $3 million has been raised over the past 11 years by our students,their families and friends in support of the Prep’s Capital Improvement & Modernization Program. It is amazing what can be accomplished when we all work together!
SAVE THE DATE: The 12th Annual Walk-a-thon will be held on September 30, 2022
Photos by John Hessel, Cameron Heuer & Mike Graziano
Monday, June 20, 2022 Cherry Valley Club, Garden City, NY Golf Classic Honorees
Jim May ‘76 and The Truzzolino Family
Thanks to all those who contributed to making this 28th Annual St. Francis Prep Golf Classic an incredible success! We owe the success of this Golf Classic event to the hard work and dedication of so many participants, staff members and alumni volunteers. Each year we come together with our Franciscan spirit and pride to honor some wonderful individuals and their families! And this year is no exception. Our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations go to coach and faculty member Jim May ‘76 and The Truzzolino Family.
Jim and the Truzzolinos exemplify the best of our Franciscan tradition. They have helped us promote academic excellence, true sportsmanship, generosity, and service to others--traits that have distinguished the St. Francis Prep community since its founding in Brooklyn more than 160 years ago. Thank you for helping us carry on this legacy!
Also, thank you to all of our golfers, dinner guests, major sponsors, journal advertisers, and hole and tee sponsors. This event was “sold out” within ten days of the invitation mailing. And the commemorative journal is the largest we have seen in years. This is a reflection of your devotion and generous commitment to the Prep, as well as your warm feelings about our honorees. And our nearly 2500 students are very thankful for your support!
The members of the SFP Alumni Board, the Golf Classic Committee and the Office of Development and Alumni Relations work together to organize this event each year and it is evident in the great event which results. Thank you!
We look forward to seeing you again next year!
Jean Colucci-Kiley ‘80 and her husband, Jack Kiley ‘80
Friends and SFP Colleagues (l-r): Judy Turner, Sandi Vandermosten, Jim May ‘76 and Chris Mendolia ‘87
THE RYAN/TRUZZOLINO FAMILY: From left to right is Sarah Staglinese (girlfriend of Eileen’s nephew Conall), Conall Ryan (son of Christine Miller Ryan’81 and John Ryan ’81), William Ryan (Eileen’s brother), Tony Truzzolino ’79, Eileen Ryan Truzzolino ’79, John Ryan ’81 (Eileen’s brother), Eileen Ryan (mother of Eileen ‘79), John Ryan, Jr. (son of John Ryan ’81), Anthony Truzzolino and his wife, Kate, Allison Ryan (niece, holding Hazel) and nephew, William Ryan III, Andie Rodgers (Tony & Eileen’s future daughter-in-law) and their son, Joseph Truzzolino.
JAMES MAY ‘76 AND HIS FAMILY (from left to right): Michael Lavelle ‘80 (brother -in-law), Susan Lavelle-Kopen ‘85 (sister -in-law), Dr. Kate Hamilton, Jillian Anne May ’12 (daughter), Anne Lavellle-May ‘78 (wife), Jim May 76, Deirdre May ‘08 (daughter), William Hamilton and Frances Hamilton.
Alumni Board Members (l-r): Charlie Casolaro ‘89, John Pereira ‘62, Ed Kennedy ‘57 and Development Director, Bob Angeletti
John Fazio ‘79 and Jack Grein ‘79 (l-r): Nick Bernardini , Bro. Robert Kent, Lou Baricelli ‘79 and Joe Bernardini (Math)
Student volunteers (l-r): John ‘23 & Dom ‘22 DeLutri assisting Bro. Robert Kent and Justin Kelly ‘69 on the course.
Photos by Vincent Dusovic & Mike Graziano
Above left: Tony Truzzolino ‘79 and Bob Hamilton ‘80 (Above, right): John Viscovich ‘81 (left) & his brother, Bill ‘79
Keith Palzer, Richard Carlson, Nick Mosesso, and Tom Rudzewick ‘81 from Maspeth Federal Savings
Alumni Board Volunteers (l-r): Alice Dunkak-Quinn Nancy Donato Samantha Rooney Kathy Sciortino Cocchiaro’13
Jon Pereira ‘99, Victor Solis ‘99 and Jason Collichio
The LeMonda Family has generously supported the Golf Classic for many years and we were capture this image of of them together. Pictured (l-r): Jovanna, Frank, Eileen, Jim ‘75, Cathie and Rich LeMonda.
(l-r): Gerry Scales ‘76, Bro. Robert Kent, Wally Bishop ‘80 and Bro. Leonard Conway
(l-r): John Filshie ‘88, Patrick McArdle ‘89, Mark Jarmek ‘78, Rich Carroll ‘86 & Michael Mongelli ‘79
(l-r): John Pereira ‘62, Joanne Persico ‘84 and her nephew, Michael Egert
Friends and Classmates: Eileen Ryan Truzzolino ‘79 and Alice Dunkak Quinn ‘79
Joe Pellechi ‘64 and Bob Player enjoying the cocktail hour after playing in the morning flight.
Good friends,classmates and major sponsors of the Annual Golf Classic Jeff Alter ‘80 and Bob Adams’80
$150,000 and Above
Elizabeth ‘80 and Robert J. Adams, Jr. ‘80
Francis J. Aquila ‘75
The Estate of James E. McGlyn ‘49
The Red and Blue Terrier Ring of Honor Gala Phyllis Gambino-Skody ‘90 and William Skody H’20
Clare H‘17 and P. Walker ‘57
$100,000 and Above
The Estate of Thomas P. Aylward ‘54
John P. Butler ‘82
Mrs. Eileen Corrado
(In memory of Horace Cotter the former Bro. Placid)
Donald P. Devane ‘61
Teresa A. Downing-Greene ‘81 and Christopher J. Greene
John A. Fry ‘78
Harvard Maintenance, Inc. (Dan Duffy H’02)
Walter A. Bishop ‘80
Anne M. Harnett-Coletti ‘90 & Thomas M. Coletti ‘88
Paul V. DeLuca ‘51
The Estate of Anna T. Hughes John M. Jorgensen ‘60
Lisa A. Drivick-Adams ‘85 & Stephen G. Adams ‘85 Joseph E. Armstead ‘58
John J. Cahill ‘67
LeeAnn A. Canavan-Black ‘79 Community Health Systems Foundation
Peter M. Corritori ‘59
Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation
The Estate of Walter Kent
Susan E. Loftus ‘76
Lucille and Louis E. Marino, Sr. ‘52
William D. Maroney ‘55
Claire Mulholland, Jr. (In memory of James S. Mulholland, Jr. ‘41)
New York-Presbyterian Queens
The Theresa & Edward O’Toole Foundation
Vincent F. Pitta ‘68
$50,000 and Above
The Estate of Paul M. Jourcin ‘65
Edward M. Kelly ‘59
John J. Lafond, Jr. ‘78
The Estate of William R. Lee ‘51 Aris J. McMahon ‘89
John P. Monaghan ‘54
$25,000 and Above
Terence W. Edwards ‘73 Louis G. Fellin ‘68
Daniel J. Finnegan ‘80
Alice ‘77 & John Fitzgerald ‘77 The Kresge Foundation
Eileen T. LeMonda ‘78
Frank Lennon
John S. Pereira, Sr. ‘62
Walter Riebenack ‘57
Martin G. Shannon ‘80
Robert A. Waegelein, Jr. ‘78
John J. Williams ‘58
Thomas J. Prendergast ‘59 Ridgewood Savings Bank
Gerald P. Scales ‘76
Raymond J. Smith ‘56
Henry W. Sterbenz, Jr. ‘61
Thomas W. Terryn ‘74 William J. Zuk ‘60
$15,000 and Above
William Becker ‘64
William Dunn ‘59
Dennis M. Esposito ‘60
Kenneth Lay ‘65
Bruno Mastropasqua ‘80 Edward R. Murray ‘64
Felicia Varlese ‘79 & William A. Viscovich ‘79
John T. Ward ‘55
$10,000 and Above
Peter M. Baiardi ‘59
Peter Callahan ‘59
Roger M. Coleman ‘56
Dolan Family Foundation
Robert F. Donohue ‘51 Fidelity Foundation
Daniel J. Flaherty ‘59
The Estate of Michael J. Holmes
Eileen A. Kilkelly-Westfahl ‘83 Paul B. Michiels ‘81
May Ellen & Gerald Ritter Foundation
Martin B. Tener ‘63 Howard K. Weber ‘68
Thomas J. Welling, Sr. ‘61
$5,000 and Above
ATJ Electrical (Andrew ‘90 & John ‘95 Drazic)
Alexander S. Balko ‘68
Victoria J. Cerami ‘77
Charles Krpata ‘63
Mr. & Mrs. Arthur F. McMahon H‘04 S. Donadic, Inc.
(Johnny Donadic ‘91 & Nicole Blaskovic ‘93)
James M. Schott ‘68
Whitestone Construction Corp. (Steve Grzic ‘94)
$2,500 and Above
Robert G. Adamo ‘72
Christopher Berga ‘90
Arthur J. Brown ‘53
Frank J. Cicha ‘80 Joan Clendenin
Gerard A. Compito ‘76
Frederick Conroy ‘63
Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F. H’01 Paul DeBenedittis ‘88 James P. Donnelly ‘56
Carol ‘83 and Jon Fredas ‘83
The Anna E. Gallagher Charitable Trust Anthony Grimm
Carmine F. Greco ‘91 Daniel E. Henning ‘60
Mary H‘90 and Roger Kobel H‘90 Louis S. Magagna ‘76
The Meehan Family Gift Fund Terrance J. Nolan ‘67
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Olwell John J. Paguaga ‘78 Louis G. Pastina ‘75
Kathryn ‘07 & James Pickel ‘07
Vincent C. Porreca ‘76
Thomas K. Rudzewick ‘81
Danielle M. Schaefer-Klyap ‘85 Henry B. Szot 56
Gabriella Ruperty and Gerald Vitelli Donald R. Weber ‘77
$1,500 and Above
Michael A. Agnes ‘59 Francis Bravin
Mr. and Mrs. Jose A. Chong Arthur A. Crowe ‘57 Kevin Dalton ‘78
Matthew I. DeLuca, Jr. ‘55
Phyllis DeSimone-Dalton ‘78
Albert G. Doumar ‘53 Suzanne Fischetti
Richard C. Jewell ‘63
Brian S. Kightlinger ‘91
John P. Kirchhofer ‘92
Diana Lee
Louis S. Magagna ‘76
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Magenheim
Roxanne Makolin ‘93
Brian McCarthy ‘80
Joyce A. Moran ‘93 Michael S. Pagano ‘80
Lisa ‘05 and Luke Pantaleo ‘05 Lawrence J. Pascal ‘59
Joseph D. Pepe ‘62
John Power ‘66
Mary Prenderville
Michael J. Quinn
Robert Sherlock
Mr. and Mrs. John C. Smith
Thomas L. Spinner, Jr. ‘66
Bro. Christopher D. Thurneau, O.S.F. ‘79
Lisa M. Walke ‘88
F. Gregory Walsh ‘55
Theresa E. Werner ‘85
Eugene P. Westhoff ‘63 Philip J. Wierzbicki ‘60
St. Francis Prep has excelled at creating a vibrant, faith-filled community where students grow spiritually, academically, socially and physically for more than 160 years. Over this time, Prep has continually evolved to meet the needs of the times. Today, providing a high-quality Catholic education in the Franciscan traditions entails new costs—such as technology—which requires periodic upgrades. This all comes with increasing price tags. The Franciscan Brothers, the Board of Trustees and the Administration have worked together to ensure that our endowment generates an annual investment income stream which enables the school to maintain a moderate tuition level. Today, roughly one third of the Prep’s student body benefits from some form of scholarship assistance. And yet, there’s still more that’s being done to offer additional tuition assistance and sponsorship opportunities to deserving students.
There are two main sources of “scholarship creation” at St. Francis Prep. The first is a regular line item that is worked into the Prep’s annual budget for financial aid. It is earmarked to assist families based on need and/or special circumstances. The second is the more than 40 Permanently endowed, “Named Scholarship Funds”.
Named Scholarships (See list next page) have been established by individuals, families, classmates and other benefactors. These scholarship funds were created as a way to honor or memorialize friends, teachers or family members while also assisting promising and deserving students with the cost of their education at SFP. These have greatly increased in number and in scope during the past two decades.
“The Named Scholarship Program has created opportunities and opened up doors for so many individuals who might have otherwise been unable to attend St. Francis Prep. And the real value is evidenced in the achievements of its beneficiaries.” said Prep’s President, Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F.
Motivating donors to fund the Prep’s Capital Improvement and Modernization initiatives has been the primary focus of St. Francis Prep’s Development outreach efforts over the past 15 years. Among the many objectives of The Campaign for St. Francis Prep (see pages 30-33) it was envisioned that a portion of campaign gifts and pledges would help provide for an increase in the size of the St. Francis Prep’s Endowment and Scholarship Funds.
Angelina
Jeremy D. Montrose
The Thomas Sheehan
Kobina Brian
Nadia
Nianh Sabena Franciscan Brothers Clifford, Conway Smith
“The number of named scholarships at St. Francis Prep has grown to over 40 during the past two decades.” reported SFP Development Director, Robert T. Angeletti. Currently there are 37 fully-funded named scholarships that serve as a source of financial assistance for deserving students. (There are six partially funded scholarships that are not yet permanently endowed.)
Mr. Angeletti continued, “Some of these include a written commitment to become fully funded on a set schedule.”
Bro. Leonard Conway, who had been meeting regularly with alumni to promote the establishment of additional endowed scholarship funds since the onset of the global pandemic, said, “We have good reason to believe that the pandemic helped instill a greater sense of urgency in our supporters as people recognized both the fragility of life and true importance of an institution like St. Francis Prep in the lives of our students.”
Scholarship aid was a top priority during the pandemic. Prep’s Alumni, Parents, Faculty/Staff exhibited large-scaled participation in the #TerrierSTAR program which raised over $1.8 million and helped hundreds of families keep their children enrolled as they weathered the economic downturn caused pandemic. This #TerrierSTAR success story has triggered the establishment of many new scholarship funds.
Over the past fiscal year the following new named scholarship funds have been added. (See list on right.)
Endowed Scholarships are a meaningful way to honor or memorialize loved ones, classmates, friends, teachers, or to celebrate a family name while also assisting deserving students with the costs associated with the outstanding value-oriented education offered at St. Francis Prep.
The following permanently endowed scholarship and financial assistance funds have been established since September 2021 and have been fully funded, partially funded or include a written commitment to fund on a set schedule. These will appear in the official scholarship fund section of the Annual Report to be published later this year.
For further information about establishing a Named or Endowed Scholarship Fund, please contact St. Francis Prep’s Director of Development, Robert T. Angeletti at 718-423-8810, ext. 269 or development@stfrancsiprep.org
The Lisa and Robert J. Adams ‘80 Scholarship Fund Dr. Phillip F. Acevedo ‘06 Memorial Scholarship Fund The Joseph M. Barbarino ‘62 Memorial Scholarship Fund The Peter Callahan and Class of 1959/1960 Scholarship Fund The Peter Corritori ‘59 STEM Scholarship Fund The First Responders Memorial Scholarship Fund The Daniel M. Finnegan ‘80 Scholarship Fund The Paul M. Jourcin ‘55 Memorial Scholarship Fund The Tim Leary ‘63 and Jane Modry H‘00 Memorial Financial Assistance Fund The William Maroney ‘55 Scholarship Fund The Lostritto Family Scholarship Fund (Joanne and Joseph ‘79) Established in memory of Royce Mulholland ‘79Midge Stack-Lennon was a beloved teacher and coach at both Bishop Reilly High School and St. Francis Prep for 40 years and her enthusiasm reflected in her work in the physical education department. On Wednesday evening, October 20th, we celebrated the life and times of Midge during a special Memorial Mass in the new Our Lady of the Angels Chapel at St. Francis Prep. Her friend and colleague, Joanne Wagner delivered a special tribute to Midge as part of the celebration of her life that evening.. Hundreds of tributes to Midge were posted on Facebook in response to the news of her passing. Jennifer O’Connor Dennean ‘88 summed it up very succinctly, “Ms. Stack was such a positive role model and a great person all around.” A reception followed in the cafeteria. Her husband, Frank made a gift in her memory and the new Health and Physical Education Office was dedicated in her honor.
Another reunion lunch of the Classes of 1959 and 1960 took place on June 22nd at Gallagher’s Steak House on 52nd Street in Manhattan. Present at the table from left forefront and going around to the right: Ray Ianniccelli ‘60, Ray Dudzinski ‘60, Ben Ruggiero ‘60, Bryan Wickham ‘60 and Tony DeSantis ‘60. On right rear we have Bill Spadola ‘60, Pete Callahan ‘59 and Pat Armstronng ‘60. These gentleman have a monthly lunch somewhere in the Greater Metro Area. Ben said, “It is a good chance to keep up with the latest happenings and we always welcome more Terriers!”
Kenny Ruane, Class of ’65 and Bob Martin ’67 met at Mitchell Field prior to kickoff of the annual Fun City Bowl between the NYPD and FDNY, held on June 4, 2022. This year marked the 50th anniversary of both teams and 49th FCB. (The game was canceled in 2020 due to Covid.) Both charter members of their respective teams, Ken played fifteen years for the Bravest while Bob clocked twelve years with the NYPD’s Finest Football Club. Ken served the FDNY for forty-three years and was the “senior man” in the department when he retired. Bob retired as an NYPD Deputy Inspector after 32 years and became a writer. He’s done many SFP related stories. (Vince O’Connor-NY Daily News-2011 and Ken Cummings Class of ’49 -KIA Vietnam 1969 in West Point’s First Call magazine in 2009) His second book, 9/11 Remembered-Twenty Years Later, includes a remembrance of the 19 Prep alumni who were killed on that tragic day. Both Bob and Kenny have deep SFP family roots. Ken’s dad Jack Ruane, graduated from Butler Street campus (Class of 1940) and daughter Lauren Ruane Danielson, Class of 1995 from Fresh Meadows. Bob’s brother Tom Martin, was a Class of 1961 grad. Lifetime friends, both Ken and Bob give much credit to the Prep, and having played for Coaches Vince O’Connor and Frank Nastro for their later successes, both on and off the gridiron. Pictured (l): Kenny Ruane ’65 and (r)-Bob Martin ’67,
An Honor for a Teacher and Mentor: Joe Sciame ‘78
Faculty member, Joe Sciame (Class of 1978) emceed the Computer Department’s fifth annual Honor Society on Monday Evening, May 23, 2022. Prior to the ceremony he reflected upon how it was an honor to have a recent graduate, Tiffany Hatzidmitriu (Class of 2019) as the featured guest speaker. Tiffany shared the story of how she began college at Pace University with an undeclared major and then called upon memories of her great academic experiences in SFP’s computer program courses. Shortly thereafter, Tiffany declared Computer Science as her major. Notably, she has also been a member of the Pace University Honor Roll for all three years. At the ceremony Mr. Sciame thanked Tiffany for taking the time to share her experiences and wished the newest members well. He also implored the Junior members to keep the society going and announced his impending retirement at the end of the year. (See more details on Faculty retirements in the “Message from Alumni Director” in the front pages of this publication). Tiffany, thank you for sharing your wisdom and your passion for computer science! And, congratulations Joe Sciame ‘78 on your retirement! You have been an inspiring teacher and mentor to many generations of Prep students! Tiffany Hatzidmitriu’19, the Computer Science Honor Society’s guest speaker and Joe Sciame ‘78
Showcasing of the new Athletics Department Faculty Office for the Benefit of the Lennon Family
On Friday, October 29, SFP Alumni Director, Bro. Robert Kent, Bob Angeletti (Director of Development) and a handful of SFP alumni flew out to South Bend to experience the rich traditions of the “Fighting Irish” on Homecoming Weekend. Jack Cahill ‘67 procured game tickets and provided the group with a personalized walking tour of the campus. It was “a trip down memory lane” as Jack shared treasured memories of his days at Notre Dame which began when he and SFP classmate and football standout, Larry DiNardo ‘67 arrived (by car) for their freshmen year in 1967.
The campus was brimming with activity and spirit. Author and football standout, Frank Pomarico ‘70 was signing copies of his book Ara’s Knights in the N.D. campus bookstore. That caught the attention of another Prep grad, Jack DiCanio ‘81 who was in town from California. Jack is a 1985 N.D. grad and was the recipient of their Raymond P. Kent Award. Pat McArdle ‘89, a member of the SFP Alumni Board was visiting his son, Patrick ‘18.
Pictured:
(1) Frank Pomarico ‘70 signs a copy of his book for SFP. (2) Gerry Dinardo ‘70 (left-#72) and 56 Frank Pomarico ‘70 (right-56) playing for Notre Dame. (3) Jack DiCanio ‘81 (left) poses with Frank Pomarico ‘70. (4) Gerry Scales ‘76 in front of the iconic gold dome. (5) Gerry and Bob Angeletti H’11 (6) Gathered in front of a tree dedicated to John “Jack” Cahill that was donated by his family. (Jack is pictured third from left.)
St. Francis Prep Alumni “Meet Up” at Notre Dame University’s Homecoming for a Tour with Jack Cahill ‘67 and Book Signing with Frank Pomarico ‘70Alumni meeting up for dinner prior to homecoming festivities and the game. Pictured above: Wally Bishop ‘80 (Alumni Board President) Tom Bishop, Gerry Scales ‘76 (Alumni Board Vice President) Jack Cahill ‘67 (a loyal Prep supporter and organizer of the ND trip) Bro. Robert Kent (Alumni Director) Frank Pomarico ‘70 (Author and ND Alumnus and football standout) Robert Angeletti (Development Director) Robert McDermott ‘87 (SFP Varsity Baseball coach) and Justin Kelly ‘69 (SFP Assistant Varsity Baseball coach) Knights’ by Frank Pomarico ‘70 Patrick J. McArdle ‘18 is our most recent Notre Dame graduate. Pictured (left) is Patrick and his mom, Collette (McCann) McArdle ‘88 at graduation this spring. Coach Justin Kelly ‘69 with Patrick at Notre Dame’s 2021 Homecoming, which coincided with Halloween! Congratulations, Patrick! Latest Notre Dame Graduate
During her 30 years in television news Patti Ann worked full-time for Fox News Channel, MSNBC, News 12 Long Island, WSJV-TV 28 South Bend and TV 55 NY. On the radio side you may have heard her on WFUV-FM, WLIMAM, WBAB-FM and Fox News Radio Network. She has interviewed hundreds of politicians, celebrities, and other newsmakers. Since retiring in 2018, she does voiceover work and wrote a book: Write Your Own Story: How I Took Control by Letting Go (Post Hill Press, May 2022).
Patti Ann was inducted into the SFP Hall of Fame in 2015 and has been active in many St. Francis Prep Alumni events. She has served as the Master of Ceremonies of SFP’s Red & Blue Terrier Ring of Honor events in 2014, 2017 and 2022.
Following are the book’s highlights from its Amazon listing:
This upbeat memoir is full of the humor Patti Ann Browne’s fans love. She takes an honest look at the highs and lows of her life, both on and off the air. She provides insights into the turbulent world of television news and weaves in advice for aspiring journalists, parents of preemies, working moms, and anyone trying to stay grounded in a world that increasingly values superficiality.
In this entertaining and intimate memoir, the woman known by fans as “The Notorious P.A.B.” reveals why she walked away from her TV news career after three decades. Patti Ann also shares funny and poignant stories of her life off camera—from how she met her husband four years after turning down a blind date with him, to her son’s near death shortly after his premature birth and how it changed her perspective on life. She chronicles life as an “Irish triplet,” and tells the dramatic story of her twin sister placing a baby for adoption and being reunited with him decades later.
While many books declare that you can “have it all,” Patti Ann dares to say no one can…but with flexibility and gratitude, you can come close. From local cable to MSNBC and then Fox, the #1 cable news network
Regan McGorry ‘90 was inducted into the Girls Catholic High School Athletic Association (Brooklyn Queens Diocese) Hall of Fame on April 7, 2022 at Russo’s on the Bay. In addition to running, Regan is also a talented basketball and volleyball player, having played both sports for the University of Scranton where she received numerous awards. This year’s Hall of Fame ceremony also celebrated the organization’s 50th Anniversary.
Pictured, left(l-r): Sal Fischetti ‘83 (SFP Athletic Director)Regan and Jim May ‘76 (SFP Faculty Member and Track Coach.)
Pictured, right: (l-r): Sal Fischetti ‘83 (CHSAA Treasurer) and Denise Hillig (CHSAA President) present Regan with her Hall of Fame honor.
in America, Patti Ann describes her determination to write her own story. She resists the pressures of climbing to the top and the sacrifices that entails, ultimately choosing faith and family.
From her humble upbringing in Queens to rubbing elbows daily with the world’s movers and shakers in Manhattan, Patti Ann explains how she found a way to enjoy the perks of the glamorous life of an anchor while (mostly) avoiding the pitfalls.
Fiercely protective of her middle-class lifestyle, Patti Ann believes simple pleasures are life’s greatest joys. Her uplifting story is one of following your heart, owning your mistakes, living with integrity, and leaving the rest to God. Rooted in faith and optimism, it’s a redemptive tale of humility and serendipity. Patti Ann demonstrates that with hard work and a willingness to change course, we can all write a life story with a happy ending.
“Write Your Own Story” peaked at #1 on Amazon’s list of Bestselling Journalist Biographies. Patti Ann’s former colleague, meteorologist Janice Dean, describes her memoir as “beautiful, honest and emotional.” It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble (stores & online), Books a Million, Walmart. com and wherever books are sold.
Patti Ann Browne ‘83, Author of “Write Your Own Story: How Took Control by
(1) Patti Ann at her 2015 SFP Hall of Fame Induction with (l-r) her mom, sister, Mary Lou ‘84 and dad. (2) 1983 San Fran yearbook photo (3) Patti Ann and her husband, Michael at the 2014 Terrier Ring of Honor (3) Patti Ann and her twin sister, Colleen at their 25th anniversary class reunion (6) Patti Ann, Connie Sayago ‘83 and Ron Gebhard ‘83 at the Annual Homecoming 5K Fun Run (6) Fr. Bill Sweeney and Patti Ann at the 2017 Red & Blue Terrier Ring of Honor.
On the morning of August 7, 2022, SFP Varsity Football Coach Rich Carroll ‘86 dove into the 60 degree waters of San Francisco Bay off of Alcatraz island and swam over 2.1 miles back to the mainland. He did it to raise money for the students of St. Francis Prep and fund the purchase of a scoreboard at the Freshmen/JV Field. It was his first open-water competition and the 54 year-old former collegiate athlete battled the treacherously strong currents in an area known for its shark activity. More than 700 swimmers were part of the challenge.
When it began Rich said that there was such a flurry of activity in the water that it created whitecaps that made it impossible to see anything for about the first 15 minutes.” It was then he called upon his months of disciplined training in the waters of Long Island. “It was the toughest challenge--physically and mentally-- in my life” he said. And Rich is no stranger to physical challenges having responded to emergencies as a member of the FDNY for two decades.
“I’m not a swimmer”
When he was a student at Prep, Rich was named the “Most Spirited Swimmer” by his coach, Nan Doherty. “You can say that I made a big splash in water. I was also the loudest person cheering on my teammates at our meets—but I was certainly not the fastest or the best swimmer.” Carroll revealed.
To prepare for this challenge Rich swam in pools and in the Atlantic Ocean along Long Island beach shorelines for several months. 36 years after his last Prep Swim meet, Rich completed this the Alcatraz Swim —which was equivalent to 35 football fields in just 48 minutes!
For those who are too young to remember, Alcatraz is a former federal prison that sits on a rocky island in California’s San Francisco Bay which closed in 1963. It’s known for its dangerous currents, coldwaters and great white sharks. Thirty-six men tried to escape from the maximum-security prison over the years — and nearly all were caught or did not survive. The “2022 Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim” is an organized event which mimics the infamous 1962 Alcatraz prison escape that was popularized by the movie “Escape from Alcatraz” staring Clint Eastwood.
What drew him to start swimming again? In 2019, Rich had a total knee replacement surgery and to help rehabilitate his knee, he began swimming “I started swimming regularly and fell back in love with the sport,” he told Fox News Digital.
St. Francis Prep Community Support
Rich may have had to swim alone but he certainly was not alone in the days and weeks leading up to the event. Words of encouragement and financial support poured in from more than 1000 alumni, friends and family members when he announced his bid to raise money on behalf of St. Francis Prep’s students and sports programs. “Many alumni stepped up to help and I want to personally thank each and every one of them” Rich said.
Two Terrier Alumni news anchors learned of Rich’s endeavor and reached out to him. Amy McGorry ‘87 (a contributing health reporter for Fox News) and Christine Persichette ‘90 (the anchor of Currents News) covered the story of Rich’s swim and interviewed him in the studio. (See sidebar)
Lisa Schaefer-Heuer ‘87 (SFP Admissions Director) created a Facebook event fundraising page and promoted news of Rich’s challenge. It quickly spread like wildfire on social media as Rich’s friends, family and classmates shared the posts. As of this publication’s print deadline, Rich has amassed just a hair shy of $15,000 in donations. That surpassed his initial stated fundraising goal of $10,000. All donations over the cost of the scoreboard will assist our student athletes directly through the “Friends Of St. Francis Prep Football Fund” which assists young student athletes and their families while enhancing the football program experience.
Congratulations, Rich! And thank you for all that you do for the students of St. Francis Prep!
Class of 1987’s, Amy McGorry, PT, DPT, MTC, is a contributing health reporter for Fox News Digital, wrote a wonderful story on Rich’s challenge. Thank you Amy! You can follow her on Twitter @amymcgorry.
Pictured above (l-r): Rich was interviewed on Fox and Friends on the morning of the event. (Right) After swimming the length of 35 football fields, the finish line camera captured this picture of Rich emerging from the water and running toward the finish line.
Lisa Schaefer-Heuer ‘87 Prep’s Director of Admissions (who is a friend and peer of Rich Carroll’s) created the Facebook fundraising page for this incredible event. That effort helped bring him 50% over goal!
Christine Persichette ‘90 News Anchor at Currents News at DeSales Media Group interviewed Rich in the studio and followed up with a second interview after his amazing feat! Thank you, Christine!!
Above: Fox and Friends interviewed Rich on the morning of the swim.
Below: The Tablet covered the story of Rich’s accomplishment. Below right: News12 Long Island was the first to cover the story and that really helped Rich get the word out.
Denise was an athlete and a true team player during her student years at Prep. She learned both the value and the power of team work. And she continues to live out these values in her neighborhood and as a faculty member in the St. Francis Prep community.
In 2016, she founded “#friendswhogive” to teach her children that giving to others can be just as rewarding as receiving —especially at holiday time! To promote this idea, Denise spoke with other parents about how important it is to reinforce in their children the importance of supporting those that are in need. In December of 2016, she launched the very first #friendswhogive event.
With the buy-in and support of many other parents, their children were encouraged to give their chore money, babysitting cash, piggy bank collection and good report card money that they earned to the #friendswhogive. The inaugural event that was held in the Stradowski’s driveway at their home in Mineola. In exchange for giving cash or a store gift card, children received a free #friendswhogive T-shirt and cup of hot cocoa.
The first event raised $1,400. The following year (2017) $1,500 was raised. The collection more than doubled in 2018 and $3,000 went to help families that had suffered considerable personal loss, to some local schools and to the Children’s Greenhouse at Nassau Community College.
The parents and children are not only wellorganized, but they are also very dedicated. In 2019, they started in the summer to raise awareness for their December giving event and sold #friendswhogive car magnets for $5 each. The kids pedaled their bikes to deliver magnets to homes in Mineola, Williston Park and Albertson.
While others “peddled” them at the Mineola Concert Series at Mineola Park and educated the crowd about #friendswhogive. In all, they sold 600 magnets. That money was given to families who had suffered unfortunate tragedy that summer.
Interest and enthusiasm spread and two more towns joined the #friendswhogive community in July 2019 and in their first year, these two extensions of #friendswhogive collectively raised $4,000. That December (2019) the Mineola #friendswhogive again outperformed and more than doubled what they raised the previous year— a total of $7,000.
When the pandemic hit in March 2020, #friendswhogive helped in their towns. Wordof-mouth and Facebook posts made it possible to gather so many individual $10 and $20 donation that they raised $6, 000 across all three #friendswhogive communities. They were able to support local delis and restaurants by purchasing dinners and snacks that were delivered to LIJ, NSUH, Winthrop and Columbia Presbyterian. In addition, gift cards to supermarkets were given to school nurses to distribute to families that lost jobs and income during the early pandemic.
Denise, an accomplished athlete and an enthusiastic and motivational PhyEd teacher at Prep said, “I think of the line from the movie Field of Dreams... ‘If you build it, he will come.”
This past December (amid the pouring rain and blustery wind) people came out to support the effort. Mineola #friendswhogive raised an incredible $15,000! The cash and gift cards were distributed to St. Aidan School, Meadow Drive, Hampton Street, Jackson Avenue, Mineola Middle School and Mineola High School. New Hyde Park and Franklin Square/Garden City South raised $4,700 which went right back to New Hyde Park Memorial School and Washington Street School in Franklin Square. Denise credits the success of #friendswhogive to all of the parents. She said, “It’s your desire to see your children grow to be loving, caring, thoughtful human beings; I believe that we were put on this Earth to do good things.#friendswhogive is a good thing.”
Denise is a wonderful example of someone who lives the Franciscan tradition in her home community and professional community.
Congratulations, Denise on your recent honor! And thank you for all that you do for the Prep community and your local community!
Saint Francis of Assisi
Middle: Denise serves on the SFP Red & Blue Terrier Ring of Honor executive committee and enthusiastically supports the event each year.
Bottom: Denise brings her Terrier spirit to everything she does. At the 2015 “Powder Puff” games —an SFP student fundraiser which benefits breast cancer awareness— served as an official.
“Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much.”
“Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.”
Proclaiming the Gospel by your actions and example is more virtuous than proclaiming it with just words.Pictured (Top): Denise Stradowski Heckelman ‘84 (third from right) was recognized at the June 2022 Village of Mineola Board Meeting along with Cina Palumbo on being inducted into the Town of North Hempstead’s Women’s Roll of Honor.
Joe Brusca ‘06 and his lovely wife, Lanie announced the birth of their son Joseph Jaime Brusca, born on February 9, 2022.
Courtney (Kennedy) Yepez ‘07 and Anthony Yepez welcomed a daughter, Jolie James Yepez, born August 9, 2021. And, they are expecting a boy in October 2022.
Patrick McLaughlin ‘07 and his wonderful wife, Mary Kate welcomed a daughter, Ayla Maeve on January 25, 2022.
Kathryn ‘07 and James Pickel ‘07 welcomed a baby girl, Sophia Pickel, on July 14th weighing in at 7lbs 15oz and 20inches in height. Sophia joins big brother James Christopher Pickel III born on January 12, 202.
Amanda Pellegrino ‘10 played on the tennis team and was really involved in the Art Department and English Department during her time at SFP. She is now a TV writer and novelist. Her debut novel, Smile and Look Pretty, was released in March from HarperCollins and her second novel, The Night We Met, will be published in Spring 2023. Amanda also just finished writing on a Showtime series called American Rust. (She named a character “Castellano” on that show as a tribute to one of her favorite Teachers —Dr. Joe Castellano!)
Chirag Jethanandani ‘11 and his lovely fiancee, Vibhuti were married in Cambridge, MD at the Hyatt Regency in Chesapeake Bay on June 17, 2022. Vibhuti works for Prudential as a Financial Reporting Manager and Chirag works for Long Ridge Partners as a Director of Recruiting.
Nicole Donini ‘14 and Anthony Scarallo ‘13 were engaged on March 13, 2021. Their wedding will be held on September 17th. Nicole works for Global Infrastructure Partners as a Finance Associate and Anthony works for Brigade Capital as an Investor Relations Associate.
Nicole Rebusi ‘09 married Ian Milligan in December 2021 on a perfect and beautiful snowy day in Maine. (See professional news for Nicole on the following page.)
Kathy (Schnurr) Lynch ‘10 and Jimmy Lynch ‘08 met at SFP as students. They were married in 2018 and just announced the birth of their first child, Finnegan on June 4, 2022. Kathy taught in the SFP Art Department from 2015-21and then joined The Mary Louis Academy’s Fine Arts Department in 2021.
Kirsten Corwin ’11 joined the Prep’s Music Department faculty in 2016 and made a big impact. The Concert Chorus that she led more than doubled in size. She will begin the new school year with a new name and new teaching position. This summer she and Billy Ruvolo were married and in September, she will be teaching at the elementary school level in Rockville Center. Congratulations to Kirsten and Billy! We will miss you!
Kathryn Kilonowski ‘11 and Devin Darmalingum ‘11 were married on September 17, 2021. They reconnected at their 10th Anniversary SFP Reunion. Kathryn is a pediatric nurse and Devin is a Detective in the NYPD. Not only are they good examples of Franciscan values (service to others) in their professions but they demonstrate why you should ALWAYS attend your class reunion!
Selina Darmalingum ‘14 married Brody Asbury on April 29, 2022. Selina graduated from St. John’s University’s College of Pharmacy. After working in retail pharmacy, she is currently employed at Pfizer as a Drug Safety Associate responsible for assessing the safety of pharmaceuticals drugs once they’re on the market.
Brian Fink ‘04 (pictured above, center) participated in the 2022 Navy Seal Hudson River Swim on August 6, 2022. Along with a team of U.S. Navy SEALs, police officers and firefighters, veterans and military supporters swam three miles across the Hudson River to honor military veterans, their families, and all of those who died during 9/11 and the wars that followed. Along the route, the swimmers stopped at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to perform 100 push ups in honor of America’s liberties, and 22 pull ups in recognition of the 22 veterans who commit suicide every day. The event concluded in lower Manhattan to honor the victims of 9/11 and all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country in the wars that followed.
Emily Engstler ‘18 was rated a five-star recruit by ESPN and named a McDonald’s AllAmerican while at St. Francis Prep. She played for Syracuse during her first three years at the college level, then for Louisville, earning First Team All-ACC honors in her only season with the team.
Emily is now an American professional basketball player for the Indiana Fever of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Congratulations, Emily!
Joshua Pascarelli ‘23 was selected as the 2022 recipient of The Danny Apicella ‘00 Memorial Scholarship Award. Daniel Thomas Apicella was a member of the class of 2000 and a standout basketball player through his years at Prep. Any accomplishments Dan had on the court were eclipsed by the high-level of character and integrity he displayed in all aspects of his life. Danny truly embodied the Franciscan spirit and his close friends said that it wasn’t a surprise when Danny chose to become an EMT. To keep his memory and spirit alive, classmates, family and friends hosted the Daniel Apicella Memorial Golf outing for 10 consecutive years and raised over $150,000 to fully endow a scholarship in his name. In keeping with tradition, the committee presented this award at the 28th Annual SFP Golf Classic on June 20, 2022.
These standout athletes and fine students have worked hard both in and out of the classroom. We are proud to announce that these individuals will continue their athletic careers and studies at some of the finest colleges and universities. This is a reflection of our fine Athletics Department at St. Francis Prep and the many dedicated coaches and moderators. We congratulate these students (and their parents) for their incredible achievements.
Jaden
Latiek
SOCCER
Stephen Salzberg ‘22 Manhattan College
Jalyn Tse ‘22 Northern Illinois University
Nikki Mitchell ‘22 Molloy College
Miranda Martincic ‘22 Western Connecticut State University
Michael
Nicholas University
VOLLEYBALL
Janaye Cunningham ‘22 BayPath University
Zoe Zols ‘22 Manhattanville College
BOWLING
Giana Giampapa ‘22 St. Francis College
FOOTBALL
Kaleb Artis ‘22 Penn State University
Andre Blakney ‘22 St. Thomas Aquinas College
Neil O’Donnell ‘22 Ursinus College
Michael Solimando ‘22 Wesleyan College
Jacob Bedoya ‘22 SUNY Maritime College
Michael Koenig ‘22 Elon University
Robert Deck ‘22 College of Saint Rose
Matthew Vene ‘22 Sacred Heart University
Sam Raic ‘22 Adelphi University
Let us pause and remember Police Officer Paul Heidelberger, SFP Class of 1982. It was 30 years ago this year (7/18/92) that Paul was shot and killed while attempting to break up a fight in front of a bar at the intersection of Bell Boulevard and 39th Avenue in Bayside.
Officer Heidelberger, a six-year veteran who worked out of a police unit in the Vladek Houses, had been awarded three medals for Excellent Police Duty, including one he received after he was wounded in the leg while responding to a burglary in January 1991. Rest In Peace Paul.
A tribute to Paul’s memory is featured prominently at St. Francis Prep. Stained glass windows are prominently featured in the General Office and visible from the sidewalk and inside the office.
Francis X. Clines ‘56, a reporter, columnist and foreign correspondent for The New York Times whose commentaries on the news and lyrical profiles of ordinary New Yorkers were widely admired as a stylish, literary form of journalism, died on July 22nd at his home in Manhattan. He was 84.His wife, Alison Mitchell, a senior editor and former assistant managing editor at The Times, said the cause was esophageal cancer, which was diagnosed in February 2021.
To generations of Times colleagues, Mr. Clines was an almost ideal reporter: a keen observer, a tenacious fact-finder and a paragon of integrity and fairness who could write gracefully against a deadline. He resisted praise with a shrug or a bit of self-deprecating deadpan.
He worked his entire 59-year career for The Times (1958-2017), starting as a copy boy without a college degree or formal journalism training. After years as a political reporter at New York’s City Hall, the Statehouse in Albany and the Reagan White House, he corresponded from London, the Middle East, Northern Ireland and Moscow, where he covered the last days of the Soviet Union.
On June 21‚ 2007‚ Daniel’s life came to a sudden halt at the mere age of 23 when he fell from a 4-story building while battling a blaze not far from his firehouse. The entire city mourned the loss of such a wonderful young man. He loved his job; Daniel would often arrive for his tour up to 2 hours early in order to relieve his fellow firefighters. Daniel was assigned to Ladder 146 in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn.
Danny’s true sports passion could clearly be seen on the pitchers mound‚ from little league on through to his high school days at St. Francis Prep. It was team experiences that influenced his desire to be a member of his dream team; the FDNY. In his spare time‚ Daniel was a personal trainer at the Greenpoint YMCA. Daniel’s younger brother Matthew ‘03‚ joined the FDNY and now proudly bears Daniel’s # 8655 on his helmet as his own.
The Daniel Pujdak ‘01 Memorial Scholarship at SFP continues to help future generations of students in Danny’s memory.
As a national correspondent later, he tracked political campaigns and the Washington scene, taking occasional trips through the hills and hollows of Appalachia to write of a largely hidden Other America. And for nearly two decades before retiring, he produced editorials and “Editorial Observer” columns hailing labor and social progressives, and lambasting the gun lobby.
Please note: Bill Maroney ‘55, a good friend and fellow San Fran yearbook staff member, held Frank Clines in extremely high regard and encouraged us to bring Frank’s incredible background to everyone’s attention. They worked on the San Fran yearbook staff together. Frank was the editor of the 1956 yearbook.
Rudy Zientarski ‘63 belonged to an exclusive group of SFP alumni: faculty members who attended North 6th St, returned to teach at the Prep, and whose children graduated from our Fresh Meadows campus. I am a proud member of that group having graduated in ‘71. My senior year is when I first met Rudy, and for over forty years experienced him as my teacher, my colleague, and the teach er of my three children.
Mr. “Z” was a relatively new teacher when I was a senior. He had returned to his alma mater a few years before fresh with his History degree from Fordham University and had estab lished a reputation as a “fount of knowledge” that he enthusiastically shared with his students. During the late ‘60s, the Prep had started offering specialized course offerings to seniors and Mr. Z became known for his “Russian History” class which is the course I took. The class was popular with students because the Cold War and Vietnam were raging at the time and we were eager to understand our Communist enemy. As advertised, Mr. Z proved to be the fount of knowledge: he seemed to know everything about the over 1000-year history of the Slavs, the Byzantine era, the Mongols, the Tsars, the Russian Revolution, and the Iron Curtain.
During the semester, I was pleased to be a facilitator of what Rudy always identified as one of the more gratifying teaching experiences in his career. One of my classmates knew a teenage Czechoslovakian girl in his neighborhood who recently had “escaped” from Eastern Europe; she actually had been in Prague in 1968 during the “Prague Spring” and the subsequent invasion of Czechoslo vakia by the Soviet Union. We had the brilliant idea to bring her to the Prep to talk to the class about her experience. (Of course, we knew that this would result in a good grade!) Mr. Z was quite excited and arranged a special after school program for her visit. During the session, Mr. Z pep pered her with many questions about her experience not only during the invasion, but also about life behind the Iron Curtain and her transition
to life in the west. She certainly added to his vast knowledge – and I did receive a great grade for the course. This is just one example of how he made history come alive for his students.
Most teachers are thrilled when former students join our profession, but it is extra special when a gradu ate becomes a Prep faculty member. SFP has had an extraordinary num ber of alumni who return home, and I had the distinction of being Rudy’s first student to return to the Prep as a teacher -- of which he frequently reminded me. When I joined the English department in 1976, he not only welcomed me with open arms, he also made sure I integrat ed smoothly into the large faculty. He insisted that I call him Rudy, as opposed to Mr. Z. As his colleague, I witnessed from a different perspec tive Rudy as a fount of knowledge because I saw the respect that he earned from students, fellow faculty, and administrators. He owned the junior year Advanced Placement Course in US History, which he famously called APUSH, and yes, in those years, the Russian History course was still offered. Rudy even served a stint as chairperson of the social studies department. However, leadership was not his style; he pre ferred to teach in the trenches. When my three children – Addie ’02, Molly ’05, David ’08 – attend ed the Prep, they all took Rudy’s APUSH class, and I now experi enced him from the perspective as a parent. The summer reading text that he required for the course was Don’t Know Much About History, which obviously came out of his desire for the students to know much about the subject he loved. I am grateful that my kids had the opportunity to experience Rudy’s expertise.
Obviously Rudy was filled with Franciscan spirit. He had a genuine appreciation for the Prep’s long history and he could recall at the drop of a hat a story about a famous or infamous Franciscan Brother, faculty member, or student. At his retirement party, he gave a speech in which he summarized his five decades at SFP making sure to thank everyone he named.
I am confident that Rudy bore the illness that took him with unique Franciscan sensibility: seeking not to be consoled, but to console those he left behind.
Written By Dr. Stephen Marino SFP ‘71Brother Edward Wesley, O.S.F., ‘62 a Franciscan Brother for 59 years, entered eternal life on February 21, 2022. His family lived in Greenpoint in St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish, where he attended elementary school and upon graduation, he went to St. Francis Prep in Williamsburg. He entered the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn in 1962 and received the habit in 1963 where he was given the name Celestine. He attended St. Francis College where he completed a Bachelor’s Degree in English and went on for further studies at the University of Notre Dame, Queens College, the New School and St. John’s University. He completed his PhD at the University of Notre Dame in 1987.
Brother Edward taught at St. Bartholomew’s School in Elmhurst and St. Aidan’s School in Williston Park. In 1969 he took his final vows and was assigned to St. Francis Prep. He served there as teacher and administrator. He worked as Curriculum Coordinator for the Diocese of Brooklyn and then went to the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey as Principal of Newman Prep in Wayne and Bailey-Ellard High School in Madison.
As a Franciscan Brother, he assumed responsibilities in formation in the pre-novitiate houses in Brooklyn and Woodside, Queens. He was elected a general councilor for the Franciscan Brothers and served as Secretary General in that office.
For his first nine years at St. Francis College, he was Director of Freshman Studies, and then assumed the role of Associate Professor and English Department Chair. Upon his retirement he resided at Our Lady of Angels Friary in Bay Ridge.
Brother Norman Smercak, OSF, Entered eternal life on September 4, 2021. He was born January 6, 1944 to Marie Dubina and Frank Smercak. Brother Norman grew up in Bronx, New York City and New Hyde Park, Long Island. He attended Holy Cross High School, St. Francis College graduating Magna Cum Laude and Yeshiva University. Brother Norman entered the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn and professed his religious vows on January 6, 1964. Brother Norman taught mathematics at St. Francis Prep and coached XC, Indoor and Outdoor Track until 1976.
He also taught at Tampa Catholic High School, St. Joseph’s High School in St. Augustine, Florida and St. Anthony’s High School in South Huntington.
Brother Norman was an excellent and outstanding High School teacher, a remarkable coach in football, swimming, cross country, track and field. Brother Norman enjoyed his 35 years serving in various positions at Camp Alvernia in Centerport, New York. Brother Norman retired from his teaching and coaching ministry, due to health setbacks while residing at St. Anthony’s High School friary but continued to be involved in various school activities.
He was inducted into St. Francis Prep’s Red & Blue Terrier Ring of Honor in 2020. (Due to pandemic related postponements, the event took place in 2022.)
Brother is survived by his sister Elizabeth Carlos,his nephew Colin Patrick and his niece Kay Elizabeth. Bro. Norman was laid to rest at Holy Rood Cemetery, Westbury, NY.
Sr. Marguerite was a beloved faculty member in the Language Department where she taught Spanish and was held in great esteem by many Prep alumni. Her brother Joe, SFP Class of 1958, is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Her nephew, Michael is a member of the Class of 1982.
Growing up in Marine Park, Brooklyn, religious life was the furthest thing from young Josephine Torre’s mind. Along with her four siblings, Josephine attended the local public schools and recalled being a tomboy in her youth.
Upon graduating from high school, Josephine followed in her sister’s footsteps and began working for the New York Telephone Company and soon accompanied a work friend, Elsie, to an event being held by the Ursuline Sisters. While there, she was drawn by the welcoming nature and hospitality of the Ursuline community, and she began to hear God “whispering” to her. Two years later, Josephine entered the Ursulines and became Sr. Marguerite, a name chosen to honor her mother who possessed what Sister described as “tremendous interior strength”.
Although she originally set out to minister in social work, Sr. Marguerite entered the teaching ministry and surprised even herself by how much she loved it from the very start. While she taught at Our Lady of Grace, Our Lady of Victory, St. Dominic High School, Holy Family High School, and St. Francis Prep, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary School was, in her own words, her “heart and soul”.
Sr. Marguerite taught at Nativity on two separate occasions – it was her second teaching assignment in 1955 and then again while serving as Superior from 1969 to 1971. Years later, she returned to serve as Principal. While
she embraced the opportunity to return to the Nativity community, she was initially reluctant to give up daily teaching to become Principal – a role she quickly embraced and excelled in. Leading the school for 27 years, Sr. Marguerite modernized the school’s technology and reinvigorated the school’s fundraising efforts. She had a deep love for the students and families of Nativity – many of whom she kept in contact with until her death. Sr. Marguerite also became a local celebrity as the New York Yankees’ number one fan and would often celebrate their wins with the Nativity community.
Known for her deep faith and ministry of prayer – former students often recall watching her during her daily walks of the schoolyard as she prayed the Rosary no matter the weather – Sr. Marguerite expanded this ministry in her retirement. She would often hand-write upwards of 40 notes a week for people she was praying for, especially “her sick” and continued this practice until she became ill last week.
Sr. Marguerite was a friend to everyone she encountered – even Mets fans. She is predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Margaret, her sister, Rae, and brothers Rocco and Frank, and survived by her brother, Joe, and her beloved nieces and nephews, especially her nephew, Michael, who she lived with in Florida for many years.
Sr. Marguerite passed on May 28, 2022. At the time of her death, she had been an Ursuline Sister of Tildonk for 72-years.
She will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace.
Pictured below: The Torre family.
Sr. Philip Kiely, C.S.J. passed away on April 28, 2022 in the 63rd year of her religious life. Sr. Philip was an active part of the Business/ Computer Department at St. Francis Prep from 1975 to 2020. She touched the lives of countless Prepsters through her teaching excellence, spirit of generosity and kindness. Her eulogy says it all:
“As a congregation of great love of God, the Sisters believe our loving God is intimately present in all of creation and desires it’s flourishing. Philip committed herself to sharing her spiritual and material resources, to networking and to creating educational opportunities, justice, immigration reform, human trafficking, LGBTQIA biases, gender inequality, climate change and other emerging issues. In this way, she worked toward the transformation of herself, the Congregation and the diverse communities in which she lived.
Sister Philip Kiley, a Sister of St. Joseph, walked among us as a religious educator. She came to St. Francis Prep from St. Pascal Baylon well over 45 years ago. Sister Philip’s talents were in the business department.
There is a saying in Latin “Ite ad Joseph”, Go to Joseph. St. Joseph was the silent Saint who accomplished more than we will ever know. So too students and faculty and staff went to Sister Philip. She created in her computer room a haven of learning, caring, reaching out and equality for all who entered West 201.
Since Friday of last week, 300 posts were put on our web site by alumni sharing how their lives were affected by Sister Philip and I received personal stories from faculty and staff that were touched by Sister Philip’s legacy of care, concern and faith.
And so, I share those posts…
Sister Philip arrived early each day; she played her CDS of Irish music. Students recalled being told by her that she or he was her star pupil. She said children have to feel special somewhere because you do not know what their life is when they walk out the door.
If ever you did something for her there was a handwritten note of thanks and a prayer.
Sister Philip never had anything bad to say about anyone, she was the kindest person and her students loved her.
God sent Sister Philip to be a living and breathing model of the Prep’s mission and values. She made every person she interacted with a better person.
Sister Philip … A living Saint who cared about you and lived out the Franciscan Mission. Thank you for all that you did for St. Francs Prep.
When I visited her room, she would show me what her students were working on- she was so proud of their accomplishments. She and I have both lived through an incredible number of technology changes- we knew what it was like to use a typewriter, to do math without a calculator and have lived through the entire history of computer science.
She was my teacher for Business computer applications. Word, Excel, and Power Point were really enjoyable and insightful.
I took typing with Sister Philip over 40 years ago….she was the kindest, most patient teacher. She made every student feel good about themselves.
It’s amazing how the kindest of souls make the biggest impact.
Sister Philip praised students for doing things on the computer even if the work was simple. Her praise and smile could turn anyone’s day around.
She was the sweetest soul! She believed in everyone’s potential and was so encouraging towards everyone.
Rest in peace Sister Philip I will never forget you being one of the kindest souls at St. Francis Prep. The memories made and the lessons taught in your computer classes are truly unforgettable. Thank you for everything.
I leave you with a humbling comment from a young man…Sister Philip the only teacher from prep that actually taught me something I use today. Rest in peace beautiful soul,
As I conclude, I quote one final post: May we make this world a better place by spreading the kindness and the joy Sister Philip gave to us each day.
Sister Philip a life well lived!
This tribute was written and delivered as a eulogy by Sister Maryann Napier, C.S.J. She and Sr. Philip were dear friends and long time colleagues at SFP.
Eternal rest grant to them, O Lord; and let light perpetual shine upon them. May their souls, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Thomas F. Cacciola • 1946
Francis E. Precht • 1947
Anthony J. D’Arco • 1948
James J. Corcoran • 1948
David J. LaTourette, Jr. • 1951
Robert Waegelein, Sr. • 1952
John “Jack” Fraas • 1952
Ronald C. Berger • 1953
Thomas Coyne • 1953
Peter P. Frisko • 1954
Alvaro R. Gomez • 1954
Donald Shevlin • 1954
John Brenner • 1955
James D. O’Neill • 1955
Richard Doherty • 1956
Francis X. Clines • 1956
David C. Moriarty • 1956
John “Jack” Cahill • 1957
Arthur J. Magee • 1957
John C. Fay • 1958
Philip J. Porcari • 1960
Vincent Pereira, Jr. • 1961
Thomas Welling • 1961
Frank J. Barkocy • 1962
Michael W. Marchese • 1962
Brother Edward Wesley, OSF • 1962
Rudy Zientarski • 1963
James P. Byrne • 1965
John R. Jacques • 1965
Kenneth Peters • 1965
John A. Celauro • 1967
Douglas M. Rizzi • 1968
Richard G. Diczok • 1970
Robert Mayer • 1970
Paul R. Cronen • 1971
Martin J. O’Connor • 1974
Maryann C. Belluardo-Brennan • 1977
Peter F. Martin • 1977
Chris Dunkak • 1978
Donna Marie Houseman-Briguet • 1982
Parnell Francois Delcham • 1983
Dan King • 1983
Carl M. Battaglini • 1984
Charles DeRose • 1985
Danielle Colonna • 1987
Dave Buscema • 1988
Jennifer Patricia Munoz • 1993
Christine Casas • 1995
Matthew Novak • 2005
Michael Gebert • 2011
Ionnis “Yianni” Athanasopoulos • 2017
Theodore “Ted” A. Alter, father of Jeff ‘80
Jane Kelly Angeletti, mother of Robert Angeletti H’11 (Development Director)
Sameer “Sam” Arora, brother of Aishvarya ‘13 and Sarika ‘17
Teresa Badami, mother of Renee ‘83
Joseph Brunetti, father of Michael ‘84 and father-in-law of Maria Sciortino Brunetti ‘87
Luigia Calabro, grandmother of Nicholas ‘17, Jonathon ‘19 and Joseph Gomes ‘24
Paola Camargo, mother of Sarah M. Real ‘21
Mary Ann Cluess, mother of Colleen Cluess-Angeletti, a friend of SFP
Giovanna Compito, mother of Gerard ‘76, and the late Joseph ‘77
Jeanine M. Cognard, mother of Gabriella ‘16
Tina D’Angelo, wife of Leonard ‘64
Teresa Doyle, mother of Tim and Kevin, SFP Faculty
Chris Dunkak ‘78, brother of Mary Beth Marchiony ‘76 and Alice Dunkak-Quinn ‘79
Ernst Edel, grandfather of Fr. Ralph, Prep’s Chaplain
Dennis Fink, father of Brian ‘04, Christine ‘02 and father-in-law of Jackie (Titolo) Fink ‘04
Gerry Fogarty- friend of SFP
Marites Elloso, mother of Sydney ‘21
John B. Fatuzzo, father of Joseph ‘80 and father-in-law of Bridget MooreFatuzzo ‘80
George Geffen, father of Bryan ‘04 and Lauren ‘09
Rolf Haag, father of Karen ‘80, and Mark ‘73
Renate Haufmann, mother of Andrea Ferranti (retired SFP staff member) and grandmother of Lisa ‘99 and Stephen ‘03
Anita Cunningham Kennedy, wife of Ed Kennedy ‘57
Edward J. Klinger, Sr., father of Edward Jr. ‘87 and Angela ‘83
William J. Kleine, father of Joan Sorreiro (SFP Science Faculty)
Waltraud G. Kizmann, mother-inlaw of Paul Mannix ‘81
Dorothy Lackner, mother of Mary Niklaus (SFP English faculty)
Mary Laddomada, mother of Nicole ‘23
Camille Masin, sister of Bro. Andrew Manniello, O.S.F. (Math Dept. Faculty-Retired)
Thomas McBride, father of Denise ‘84 & father-in-law of Sal Fischetti ‘83
Michael A. McKenna, father of Nancy ‘84, Susan ‘88 and grandfather of Isabella Franco ‘18
Sean Mills, father of Tristen ‘22
Charles Morris, father of Marlon ‘84, Wayne ‘88 and grandfather of Olivia ‘18, Amanda ‘23 and Sophia ‘25
John Moran, father of the late John Moran ‘85 and Robert ‘87
Thomas O’Keeffe, father of Elizabeth Glaser (English Dept.)
Ann O’Rourke, sister of Mary Ellen McDonald ‘86
Rita S. Prior, wife of Michael ‘65 and mother of Bryan ‘89, Christopher ‘94, Andrew ’97, Laura ‘99 and Zachary’99
Ellen Salata, wife of Jerry ‘62
Bro. Anthony Savasta, O.S.F., Assistant Director of the Franciscan Brothers scholasticate.
Allan Palzer, father of Keith ‘81 and Gregg ‘85
Anne Shanahan, mother of Maureen ‘76, Kevin ‘78, Jamie ‘81, Eileen ‘82, Deirdre ‘86, Kerry ‘87 and Sean ‘90
William “Bill” Turnbull, father of Karin ‘83 and William Jr. ‘86
Yvonne Wittreich, wife of Ken ‘60
Sunday, November 6, 2022
Brother Ralph Clifford Auditorium || 6100 Francis Lewis Boulevard || Fresh Meadows, NY
All alumni, family, friends of the Prep community are welcome. We will remember those who have departed in the past year.
Blessing of the New Memorials on the Pathway to Saint Francis.
Mass 11:00 a.m. || Complimentary Breakfast to follow || RSVP required.
Website: alumni.sfponline.org || email: alumni@stfrancisprep.org || Phone: (718) 423-8810, ext. 330
6100 Francis Lewis Boulevard Fresh Meadows NY 11365
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 658 Hicksville, NY
MASS: 8:00 AM in the SFP Chapel
REGISTRATION/CHECK-IN: 8:00 -9:15 AM
PEE WEE RACE: 9:15 AM
5K START: 9:30 AM (Rain or Shine)
Online Registration: Scan QR code below
Awards Ceremony for Top Male & Female Finishers and Breakfast after the race!
JOIN US AS WE PAY TRIBUTE TO FIRST RESPONDERS WHO ARE A PART OF THE PREP COMMUNITY. Our 2022 Honorees are: Paul Mannix ‘81, (FDNY); Thomas Coghlan, ‘88 (NYPD) & Jon Fredas ‘83 (USN). A tribute will be held honoring the St. Francis Prep alumni who perished on 9/11. Friends, family and classmates of those individuals are all invited to participate. Sponsorship opportunities are available for the race, breakfast, t-shirts, and awards. Visit the SFP Alumni Website for more information and to register for this event. You may also contact the Alumni/Development Office at (718) 423-8810, ext. 268 for more information. Interested in joining the first responder alumni chapter? Email: development@sfponline.org. After the event and breakfast, alumni will gather for lunch at OSP (One Station Plaza) on Bell Boulevard in Bayside.
This year, the First Responders Memorial Scholarships will be awarded in memory of FDNY Firefighter John Downing ‘79 and FDNY Lieutenant Vincent G. Halloran ‘ 76
