2021 Summer/Fall Grad News

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In the Spirit of St. Francis T h e P re p C o mmunit y L o o k s Ah e a d Wit h Hop e an d O pt imi sm at t h e “Ne w R e alit i e s” brought about by Covid-19

Grad News Summer/Fall (P. 2021 The 20th Anniversary of 9/11: We Remember! 12-13)1


A Letter from the President Dear Alumni and Friends of St. Francis Prep, As you are well aware, the past eighteen months presented us with unprecedented challenges that forced us to re-think the way we work, communicate, socialize and educate our students. We discovered new ways to accomplish important tasks and meet important objectives. We have seen first-hand how the human spirit rises to the occasion. We continue to pray and mourn for those we have lost to the pandemic while remaining tremendously grateful to our front-line workers (including our amazing teachers) and our first responders everywhere. And it is not lost upon us that, as we make our “comeback” from this recent difficult stretch, we will soon commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on our nation. Having said this, the stage is now set for the upcoming school year when our “new educational realities” come into better focus—hopefully with some sense of normalcy. Our dedicated and talented faculty and our wonderful students are to be commended once again for their resiliency. Despite the pandemic-related hurdles they had to overcome, all 626 of our seniors graduated this past June 20th when beautiful outdoor ceremonies were held for them 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) can be attributed in large measure to YOUR generous support which allows us 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 our special program #TerrierSTAR (Student Tuition Assistance and Relief) helped me fulfill my pledge that NO student would be denied a St. Francis Prep education due to financial hardship caused by the coronavirus. So please know that your ongoing involvement in our work continues to result in the success of nearly 2500 students who come from all walks of life. (Our enrollment remains very strong.) Your continued support has also helped create beautiful new and updated facilities designed to accommodate the highestquality programming at the high school level.

The Campaign for St. Francis Prep helped fund our capital improvement and modernization work. More than $15 million has been committed to the campaign (over $5 million in Phase I and $10 million in Phase II) to provide our students with new physical fitness and art education facilities; completely renovated, state-of-the-art science labs; newly constructed music education and practice facilities (this work continues today); a modern, high-tech, multi-purpose student cafeteria area; new student/athletic locker rooms and physical fitness staff offices; redesigned lower level corridor spaces; plus a highly visible, newly created building facade and outdoor plaza on the west side of the school complex (which will soon be replicated on the east side). The generosity in support of this amazing and well-planned work has been extraordinary. The campaign will officially come to a close at the end of our current fiscal year on August 31st but not before EVERYONE has had an opportunity to “make their pledge” of support to this once-in-a-generation effort. Inside this GradNews you will find all the information on how to do this (if you haven’t already). Within these pages you will also see highlights from the limited number of events and activities we conducted this past year—mostly virtually with the exception of our June Golf Classic. (If you recall, we were forced to postpone or cancel most of our events in 2020-21) Needless to say, the alumni event schedule for 2021-22 (inside here) is “jam-packed” to makeup for postponed reunions, professional chapter receptions, Homecoming Weekend, our Annual Memorial Mass and the third edition of our Red & Blue Terrier Ring of Honor Gala. It should be a fun year! So please enjoy the rest of the summer! Hopefully we’ll see one another at one or more of our upcoming events. In the meantime, thank you very much once again for everything you do in support of St. Francis Prep. Remain safe, healthy, and 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 Alumni Board President: Wally Bishop ‘80 Vice President: Gerald Scales ‘76 Ron Alama ‘86

Chris Mendolia ‘87

Diane Bertoli ‘81

Michael Mongelli ‘79

Luz A. Bove ‘97

John Morana ‘07

Charles Casolaro ‘88

Marlon Morris ‘84

Sal Cocchiaro ‘13

Kevin O’Donnell ‘73

Fr. Jim Cunningham ‘86

Joseph B. Pantaleo ‘03

Devin Darmalingum ‘11

John S. Pereira ‘62*

Nancy L. Demers ‘91

Margret Polino ‘81

Nancy M. Donato ‘76

Donna Rodger ‘77

Alice Dunkak Quinn ‘79

Samantha Rooney ‘19

Barbara Gillespie ‘82

Lawrence Schiralli ‘80

Chirag Jethanandani ‘11

Kathy Mackin Sciortino ‘76

Michelle Kawka ‘95

Judith Vincze Sheridan ‘85

Bro. Campion Lally, O.S.F. ‘55

Kristina Veljak ‘90

Eileen LeMonda ‘78

William Viscovich ‘79

Mike Madden ‘77

*Emeritus

Patrick J. McArdle ‘89

GRAD NEWS

Summer/Fall 2021

__________________________________ Contents EVENT CALENDAR Alumni Events • 4 PAST EVENTS President’s Dinner • 5 Annual Mass of Remembrance • 5 10th Annual Walk-a-thon • 6-7 27th Annual Golf Classic • 8-11 COVER STORY We Remember • 12-13 Terrier Red & Blue Ring of Honor Gala • 14-15

John McAree ‘50 Deirdre McDonough ‘81 Angelica M. McKessy ‘02

SPECIAL SECTION Capital Campaign Update • 16-27

WHAT’S HAPPENING @6100 Alumni Director’s Column • 28-29

Follow us on Facebook: St. Francis Preparatory School

Alumni News & Notes • 30-32 2020-21 Athletic Season • 32 Franciscan Focus • 32

https://www.facebook.com/st.francispreparatoryschool

• Event Photo Galleries • Upcoming Events • Alumni News • Class Reunions

In Memoriam • 33-35


St. Francis Prep’s 2021-2022

Alumni Event Calendar Alumni Professional Networking Reception Thursday, September 30, 2021 Homecoming Weekend October 21st-24th Thursday, October 21, 2021 3-on-3 Hoops Tournament ----------Saturday, October 23, 2021 Day at Belmont (Tentative); Homecoming Football Game 7:30pm at Mitchel Field ----------Sunday, October 24, 2021 5K Fun Run ----------Friday, October 29, 2021 Football Alumni Night Annual Mass of Remembrance Sunday, November 7, 2021 ------------

10 th, 15th and 20th Anniversary Class Reunions Saturday, February 12, 2022 2011 - 10th Anniversary 2006 - 15th Anniversary 2001 - 20th Anniversary 2012 - 10th Anniversary 2007 - 15th Anniversary 2002 - 20th Anniversary -----------Florida Alumni Reception & Game (East Coast) Saturday, March 5, 2022 -----------Red & Blue Terrier Ring of Honor Saturday, March 26, 2022 -----------Annual President’s Dinner Saturday, April 9, 2022 -----------Annual Walk-a-thon May 2022

Bishop Reilly H.S. Alumni Reunions* Class of 1972 • June 18, 2022 Class of 1970 • June 25, 2022

*These events are being organized under the auspices of Bishop Reilly Alumni volunteers.

---------28 Annual Golf Classic Cherry Valley Club June 20, 2022 th

Email: alumni@sfponline.org or development@sfponline.org (718) 423-8810 ext. 230/268 Website: http://alumni.sfponline.org/ Our “official” SFP alumni Facebook page www.facebook.com/ st.francispreparatoryschool

Alumni Spring Reunion • Saturday, May 7, 2022 Class of 1985 - 35th Anniversary 1990 - 30th Anniversary 1995 - 25th Anniversary

1986 - 35th Anniversary 1991- 30th Anniversary 1996 - 25th Anniversary

1987 - 35th Anniversary 1992 - 30th Anniversary 1997 - 25th Anniversary

Alumni Spring Reunion & Hall of Fame Induction • Saturday, May 14, 2022 We look forward to celebrating with you and honoring our Hall of Fame Inductees: Peter Corritori ’59, Brother Owen Justinian Sadlier O.S.F ’62, LeeAnn Canavan-Black ’79, and our Honorary Alumnus William Skody.

Class of 1945 - 75th Anniversary 1950 - 70th Anniversary 1955 - 65th Anniversary 1960 - 60th Anniversary 1965 - 55th Anniversary 1970 - 50th Anniversary 1975 - 45th Anniversary 1980 - 40th Anniversary

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1946 - 75th Anniversary 1951 - 70th Anniversary 1956 - 65th Anniversary 1961 - 60th Anniversary 1966 - 55th Anniversary 1971 - 50th Anniversary 1976 - 45th Anniversary 1981 - 40th Anniversary

1947 - 75th Anniversary 1952 - 70th Anniversary 1957 - 65th Anniversary 1962- 60th Anniversary 1967 - 55th Anniversary 1972 - 50th Anniversary 1977 - 45th Anniversary 1982- 40th Anniversary


2020-21 Virtual Events

The pandemic lock down prevented us from being together in person, but we were never out of touch! Through the power of technology, we were able to offer two of what many of our alumni consider our most meaningful annual events virtually--The Annual Mass of Remembrance and the Annual President’s Dinner! We recognize that face-to-face interactions are invaluable and look forward to the time when we will be together again!

ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S DINNER - March 20, 2021 The Annual President’s Dinner is Brother Leonard’s “state of the school” report to key benefactors. Patrick McLaughlin, Assistant Principal provides and update on the academic achievements of our students. Two students are selected to provide insights on their Prep experience. A celebration of Mass is offered prior to the start of the dinner each year.

Use your smartphone/tablet to watch this video.

Father Ralph, (pictured above) Prep’s Chaplain was the celebrant of the Mass that was held prior to the virtual Annual President’s Dinner.

ANNUAL MASS OF REMEMBRANCE - November 1, 2020 We usually come together on the first Sunday in November for the Annual Mass of Remembrance to celebrate the lives and memories of those we have lost in the last year. Unfortunately, this past year we could not gather together due to the pandemic. To keep the community together, Alumni Director, Brother Robert Kent, O.S.F sought to keep the tradition and spirit going in video format. At the conclusion of the scrolling of the names of alumni and family, Prep’s chaplain, Father Ralph Edel provided a personal reflection. If you missed it, you can scan the QR code on this page and view the video on a smartphone/tablet.

Use your smartphone/ tablet to watch this video presentation. iPhone: Scan with your built in camera. Android: Use a QR code reader.

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St. Francis Prep’s 1 0 th A n n u a l

Walk-A-Thon

The Annual Walk-a-thon Benefits Prep Students Our 10th Annual Walk-a-thon was held on Friday, May 14th.

Through this event, more than $2.7 million has been raised over the past decade by SFP students, families and friends in support of the Prep’s Capital Improvement & Modernization Program.

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St. Francis Prep’s 27th Annual Golf Classic Monday, June 21 2021 Cherry Valley Club, Garden City, NY

2021 Golf Classic Honorees

Sal Fischetti ‘83 and The Prendergast Family Thanks to all those who contributed to making this 27th Annual St. Francis Prep Golf Classic an incredible success! The past year has been very challenging for everyone. We are so grateful for everything our alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends have done for the Prep during this pandemic. It is literally “a breath of fresh air” to be out and about at an event like this once again. We owe the success of this Golf Classic event to the hard work and dedication of so many participants, staff members and volunteers. In the end though, 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 Sal Fischetti ‘83 and The Prendergast Family Sal and the Prendergasts 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! 8

Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

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! Our profound gratitude to all the members of the SFP Alumni Board, the Golf Classic Committee and the Office of Development and Alumni Relations. You work together to organize this event each year and I truly appreciate your efforts. Thank you! We are excited to announce that in 2022 we will be honoring James May ‘76 (Faculty & Track Coach) and The Truzzolino Family (Salvatore† & Jean, Tony ‘79, Eileen Ryan-Truzzolino ‘79 and Jerry ‘82.) We look forward to seeing you again next year!


Sean Prendergast ‘80

The Prendergast Family (l-r): Eileen, Shivaun ‘91, Sean ‘80, Joan H2011, Bro. Robert Kent, Gerry Scales ‘76 and Michael ‘82. (Megan ‘87 and Maura ‘76 were not present for the photo.)

Sal Fischetti ‘83 (center) and his “work family” from the Physical Education and Health Department. Pictured (l-r): Phyllis Gambino-Skody ‘90, Fr. Bill Sweeney (fmr. Chaplain), Sandi Vandermosten, Kevin Colucci, Laurie Cappiello, Joann Wagner, Sal, Jill Verdi, Elizabeth Fryer Kalkau ‘00, Patrick McLaughlin ‘73 (SFP Principal), Denise Stradowski-Heckleman ‘83, Judith Turner. (Not pictured: Justin Kelly ‘69)

Father Bill Sweeney and JoAnn Wagner

Dom Vulpis ‘74, Sal Fischetti ‘83 and Patrick McLaughlin ‘73 (SFP Principal)

Sal ‘83 (l) his wife, Denise McBride Fischetti ‘84 (r) and their children Victoria, Jessica, and Lauren.

Sal Fischetti ‘83

Two generations of Prepsters: Mike ‘22 and his dad, Tom Modica ‘98

Alumni Board Members: Barbara Gillespie ‘82, Kathy Joanne Persico ‘84 and her nephew, Michael Mackin Sciortino ‘76 and Nancy Demers ‘91


27th Annual Golf Classic Thank you to all of our golfers, dinner guests, major sponsors, journal advertisers, and hole and tee sponsors. EVENT AND DINNER SPONSORS Lisa & Bob Adams ‘80

COCKTAIL HOUR SPONSORS Lisa and Jeff Alter ‘80

LUNCHEON SPONSORS Eddie Slampiak ‘90

CRM Construction & Maintenance

Richard Mednick

Medco Electrical Contracting, Inc. FRANCISCAN BROTHERS SPONSOR

RAFFLE PRIZE SPONSORS

JOURNAL SPONSOR

Eileen LeMonda ‘78, HOF ‘02 The LeMonda Family

All Dimension Construction

Steel Equities Lostritto Family Foundation Joanne Frisoni-Lostritto & Joseph Lostritto ‘79

LIVE & SILENT AUCTION SPONSOR Sean Prendergast ‘80 Hannum Feretic Prendergast & Merlino, LLC

GOLF CARTS SPONSORS Wally Bishop ‘80 Michael Mongelli ‘79

DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR

Alice Dunkak Quinn ‘79

Waldorf Risk Solutions, Inc. Harvard Maintenance Dan Duffy H’03 Tom Gebert ‘79 Primary Land Services, LLC Beth Olwell-McNulty ‘80 & Bob McNulty ‘80 McNulty Outdoors

John P. Campo, Esq. Akerman LLP

Ed and Derek Nolan The Nolan Group

PUTTING GREEN SPONSOR

Joe Pantaleo ‘03 Joseph B. Pantaleo, D.D.S., P.C.

Maspeth Federal Savings

HOLE-IN-ONE PRIZE SPONSOR Koeppel Nissan

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27th Annual Golf Classic

Monday, June 21 2021 • Cherry Valley Club, Garden City, NY

Cocktails and Dinner

(l-r):Cocktail Hour Sponsor,Jeff Alter ‘81, Bro. Leonard Conway (SFP President) and Event and Dinner Sponsor, Bob Adams ‘80

1980 Classmates and “Woodside Alumni”: Wally Bishop ‘80 and Lori Mitchell Costello ‘80

l-r: Giovanni Scagliola, Sal Fischetti ‘83 and Nick Stork

l-r: Tom White ‘80, Diane & Matt Roberts ‘80 and Jean Colucci-Kiley ‘80

(l-r): Diane Roberts and Raffle Prize Sponsor, Alice Dunkak Quinn ‘79

l-r: John Pereira ‘62 (Golf Committee Member) and Richard Carroll ‘86

Joan Prendergast H’11 and Gerry Scales ‘76

Ray McCleary ‘82 and Gerry Boeckhaus ‘80

(l-r): Alumni Board President Wally Bishop ‘80, Charles Casolaro ‘88 (2021 Event Chairperson) and Alumni Board Vice President, Gerry Scales ‘76

l-r: Bro. Leonard Conway, Bob Angeletti (Development Director), and Danny Ryan ‘86

l-r: Phylis Gambino ‘90 (SFP Athletics Office), Kim Perinuzzi (SFP Development Office) and Alumni Director, Bro. Robert Kent, O.S.F.

(l-r) Bob Hamilton ‘80, Vinny Porreca ‘76 and Bro. Bill Boslet, O.S.F. H’2002

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WE REMEMBER... The Saint Francis Prep community mourns the loss of those killed on September 11th, 2001. We pray for their families and friends and for an end to terrorism in our world.

MEMBERS OF THE SFP ALUMNI COMMUNITY Lawrence T. Stack ‘60

Alfonse J. Niedermeyer ‘79

Cono E. Gallo ‘89

Marian R. Hrycak ‘63

Lt. Thomas Kelly ‘80

Michael E. Brennan ‘91

John J. Kren ‘66

Matthew Garvey ‘81

Michael Marti ‘93

Howard Bishchoff ‘74*

John Sammartino ‘81

James William Farrell, Jr. ‘95*

Andrew J. Desperito ‘75

Kevin Hawkins ‘83*

Vincent G. Halloran ‘76

John J. Florio ‘85

Fr. Mychal Judge, O.F.M. (Honorary Alumnus ‘91)

Timothy M. Stackpole ‘77

Michael F. Lynch ‘86

Kevin J. Pfeifer ‘78

Lt. Edward J. McDonagh ‘86*

Vincent F. Giammona ‘79

Jill Maurer-Campbell ‘88

*Passed away as a result of a certified 9/11 related illness.

FAMILY OF SFP ALUMNI, FACULTY AND STAFF

Mr. Thomas Ashton, nephew of William Ashton ‘76

Mr. Francisco H. Munoz, cousin of Rita Santiago-Espinal ‘87

Mrs. Girolamo, mother of Krishan ‘06

Mr. Joseph Amatuccio, father-in-law of Frank Purificato ‘94

Mr. Ralph Licciardi, uncle of John Sullivan '18

Mr. James Cartier, brother of Jennie '80 and Michael '95

Mr. Arthur Warren Scullin, father of James ‘90 & Nora Marie ‘95

Mr. Kenneth Phelan ‘84, brother of Leonard ‘84, father of Kimberly ‘02 and Erin ‘05

Ms. Helen Marie Coy, aunt of Devin '16 and Michael Beyer '14

Mr. John Swaine, son of Frank ‘51

Mr. Scott Larsen, father of Scott '15

Mr. Hector Tamayo, father of Julian ‘00 & Pamela ‘03

9/11/Remembered: Twenty Years Later

Mr. James Waring, father of Jessica ‘05, Stephanie ‘08, Maria ‘10, and Jamie ‘14

Award-winning author, Bob Martin ‘67 shares remembrances of first responders on that horrific day. The book begins with two of his own short stories based on his years in public service, followed by three first-person recollections. The book is a moving tribute to all those who served. Bob served the NYPD for thirty-two-years in a wide variety of assignments. Now a writer, his work has appeared in numerous newspapers and magazines.

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The First Responders Memorial Scholarship Fund The First Responders Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established at St. Francis Prep through the generosity of Christopher J. Greene and Teresa Downing-Greene ‘81. The purpose of this scholarship fund will be to ease the burden of tuition each year for a deserving senior student. Preference will be given (but not limited to) children of Police, Fire or Emergency Medical personnel. 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. If you would like to join the Greene’s in honoring and remembering the selfless sacrifice of all our fallen heroes as we commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11, donations to the fund would be greatly appreciated so that many deserving students will benefit in the years to come. The First Responders Memorial Scholarship Fund will be a permanently endowed scholarship fund at the Prep.

The first award will be made on or about September 11, 2021 (in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the attacks) and will honor the memory of Matthew Garvey from Glendale, member of the FDNY and St. Francis Prep’s Class of 1981 who was one of our fallen heroes on 9/11. Each year a different fallen hero will have his/ her name associated with this scholarship award and will be recognized and honored as part of the presentation to the student recipient. Matthew Garvey served 10 years on active duty and served in Beirut, Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield. He then joined the New York City Fire Department in 1995 and was assigned to the elite Squad 1. On 9/11, Matthew and his fellow squad members aided in the evacuation of thousands of people from the South tower of the World Trade Center. The tower collapsed and killed Matthew and his entire squad. May they and all first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice Rest in Peace!

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St. Francis Prep’s 2022 Terrier Red & Blue Ring of Honor Gala HONORING ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENT AT THE PREP

Saturday, March 26, 2022 Crest Hollow Country Club • Woodbury, NY As many will recall this Gala event was postponed in each of the last two years due to the pandemic. We have since secured a new date and notified everyone that all purchases of 2020 Gala tickets, tables, raffles, journal ads and other sponsorships will be honored for this March. In the meantime, we hope to add additional event sponsors while also promoting ticket sales. We were expecting about 800 guests in 2020 (and Crest Hollow was planning to open up space to accommodate as many as 1000), so we hope this newly scheduled event will allow for even more alumni, family members and friends to attend on March 26th! If you have any questions, pleases contact us at (718) 423-8810, ext. 268/269/330. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating the achievements of this wonderful group!

PROGRAM FOR THE EVENING Cocktails 6:00 PM

Ceremony & Dinner

7:00 PM Music by Black Tie Brass

Welcome

Coaches, Moderators & Athletic Directors

President’s Remarks

Brother Leonard Conway, O.S.F.

Honoree Inductions • Championship Teams 1979 Baseball Team

Patti Ann Browne ‘83, Master of Ceremonies

Honoree Inductions

2000-09 Women’s Tennis Teams

God Bless America

Women’s Sport ~ Dinner ~

Joanne Persico ‘84

Principal’s Remarks

Recognition of Past Honorees • 2014 & 2017

Alumni Greeting

Honoree Inductions

~ Super Raffle Drawing ~

Wally Bishop ‘80

Invocation

Rev. Ralph Edel, SFP Chaplain

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Honoree Inductions

Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

Patrick McLaughlin ‘73 Men’s Sports ~Dessert ~

1979 Volleyball Team

~ On for Ol’ St. Francis ~


2022 Terrier Red and Blue Ring of Honor Inductees Coaches, Moderators & Athletic Directors Nan Doherty • Swimming Joyce Ford • Volleyball Justin Kelly ‘69 • Baseball & Football Joseph Licata H’00 • Football Lorraine Smith • Swimming

Women’s XC, Track & Field Patti Quinn Neave • 1983

Karolyn Hicks • 1993

Kate Doyle • 1989

Marcie Beauzile Eldridge • 1998

Deirdre Morris Abrahamsson • 1989

Lauren Kilduff Busch • 2000

Kim Facey Pedercini • 1990

Alexis Murray • 2009

Tony Truzzolino ‘79 • Football

Volleyball

Dom Vulpis ‘74 • Softball

Susan Emrich Filzen • 1985

Bro. Norman Smercak, O.S.F. • XC, Track & Field Bro. Ed Kent, O.S.F., H‘14 • XC, Track & Field

Women’s Swimming

Football Dan Romanello • 1965

Chris Goetz • 1985

Tim Tubridy • 1969

Aaron Holder • 1998

Kevin Slattery • 1972

Jeffrey Aime • 2006

Roseann Delluomo • 1984

Patti Fitzgibbon-Heid • 1987

Roma Kusznir Hunter • 1985

Lorraine Grein • 1989

Women’s Soccer

Meghan Mullaney McCormack • 1993 Marissa Stork • 1998

Men’s Basketball Bobby Jenkins • 1958

Steve Shurina • 1984

Dennis McDermott • 1970

Jason Feeley • 1993

Steven Melcer • 1974

Baseball

Women’s Basketball

Christy Steingasser • 1989

Kelly Fitzpatrick Mullahy • 1991

Marianne Haggerty Zidar • 1989

Kathryn McCabe Fifield • 1995

Softball

Ralph Addonizio • 1964

Robert McDermott • 1987

Denise McBride Fischetti • 1984

Marty Schaetzle • 1979

John Benik • 1995

Lori Matturro, DDS • 1984

Anthony Lamonaca • 1979

Laurie McMahon • 1987

Women’s Tennis

Rugby

Allison Saldana • 1984

Thomas Sloan • 1971

Men’s XC, Track & Field George Lippemeier • 1959

Jim Phillips • 1973

John C. Hemmer • 1961

Richard J. Khorigan • 1979

Edwin R. Guzman, MD • 1971

Dennis Zovich • 1979

John Nespoli • 1973

Timothy J. Morton • 1983

Championship Teams to be Honored: 1979 Baseball Team

1979 Women’s Volleyball Team

2001-09 Women’s Tennis Teams

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T h e C a m p a i g n f o r S t. F r a n c i s P r e p

The Campaign for St. Francis Prep helped fund the Prep’s Capital Improvement and Modernization Program that began in conjunction with the school’s 150th Anniversary Celebration back in 2008.

HONORARY CHAIRS Most Rev. John C. Dunne ‘55 (Ret.) Auxiliary Bishop, Diocese of Rockville Centre Bro. William Boslet, O.S.F. Fmr. Superior General, Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn

FOUNDING COMMITTEE John J. Brown ‘76 Peter Callahan ‘59 Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F., H’01 †Robert J. Crimmins ‘56 Michael Henning ‘57 Paulette H’08 and † Vincent A. Toscano ’53 † Joseph P. Walker ‘57 † Rest in Peace

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As a result, we now have beautiful new physical fitness, art, science, music, cafeteria, locker room, chapel and other needed spaces for our students. And this work has been done in a very thoughtful, well-planned manner, with over $35 million in new construction and renovations taking place so far, while incurring an outstanding debt of less than $2 million as of this writing. The debt is incurred by accessing a very favorable line of credit—only as needed—as the work is performed. Any outstanding loan balances—usually quite ordinary—are paid down monthly using the Prep’s portfolio investment income and fundraising dollars. This plan has worked remarkably well over the years and has not burdened the school financially in any way (and this includes no need to raise tuition to cover these costs). The capital campaign will officially end at the conclusion of the current 2021 fiscal year (on August 31st) but not before EVERYONE has had an opportunity to “make their pledge” of support to this important, once-in-a-generation effort (and have their name inscribed on the Campaign Donor Wall later this year). Therefore, we will extend the deadline for receipt of campaign gifts and pledges until after Labor Day. Donors are also being offered memorial and dedication opportunities (including classrooms, labs, music and art rooms, and select items in our newly renovated chapel). Please consider these to honor loved ones, to memorialize the family name, or to give thanks for your St. Francis Prep education. You can contact the Office of Development at 718.423.8810 ext. 268/269 for more information on these memorials or with any fundraising or alumni event-related question you may have.


The Campaign for St. Francis Prep

T H E CAP I T AL I M P R OVE ME N T & MODE RN IZAT ION P ROGR AM

UPDATE


The Capital Improvement and Modernization Program Prep’s Campaign to Insure The Next 150

Campaign Activity Timeline 2005-2007: The Franciscan Brothers, the Prep’s Trustees and other leaders began laying the groundwork to help insure a long, prosperous and productive future for the school. From this emerged a “Capital Improvement Program” designed to transform Prep into a truly modern, twenty-first century educational facility in several phases. 2008

2009

The Sesquicentennial Campaign (Phase I) is announced publicly at the 150th Anniversary Gala with a goal of $5 Million and is handily surpassed with leadership gifts from key donors, the Franciscan Brothers and Trustees. Pictured below: SFP Trustee, Michael Henning ‘57 at the Gala.

Prep’s President, Bro. Leonard Conway, OSF, faculty, staff administrators and construction personnel work together to finalize plans for new facilities.

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2010

The Ceremonial Groundbreaking for new Art Education Center and the Physical Education & Athletic Training Center takes place in June 2010. Pictured (l-r): Benefactor Peter Callahan ‘59, Frank Nastro, Bro. Bill Boslet, O.S.F., Coach Vince O’Connor and Brother Leonard Conway at the ceremonial groundbreaking in 2010.


2011

Physical Education & Athletic Training Center and the new Art Education Center are dedicated. Pictured below (l-r): Brother Leonard Conway, the late Mary O’Connor and Coach Vince O’Connor, Benefactor Peter Callahan ‘59 and the late Frank Nastro at the ribbon cutting ceremony in the Athletic Education and Training Center. Pictured bottom (l-r): Jeanne Buccino (Art Dept. Chair) and members of the Art Department look on as Bro. Leonard Conway, cuts the ribbon in the new Art Education Center.

2014

Within four years, contributions to the SFP Walk-a-thon from students, parents, faculty & staff total $1Million. All proceeds benefit the Capital Improvement and Modernization Program.

2014-15 All of Prep’s Science Classrooms undergo a floor to ceiling renovation and are now equipped with the most advanced instructional technology.

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2015 A complete overhaul of the SFP Music Department’s Instruction and Practice Facilities begins. The project goal is to create high-caliber practice and instruction areas for our award winning Music program. The first phase of this multi-year project included a complete renovation of the east-west “connector corridor” with a new Percussion Classroom, Practice Studios (equipped with Wenger sound isolation practice rooms) and two other music classrooms.

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2015-16 2015-16 New lighting, powerful graphics and student lockers are installed in the East and West Bottom Corridors to complement the new Music Department classroom renovation. The high impact floor to ceiling graphics speak about our Catholic, Franciscan Core Values and the Red & Blue color palette represents our school colors and our bold Terrier Spirit!


2017-19 Construction begins on the new “west wing” addition. A generous grant of $100,000 from New York-Presbyterian/ Queens enables SFP to acquire the most technologically advanced 3D anatomy visualization and virtual dissection tool for anatomy and physiology education for our Science Department. The dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Anatomy and Biology Lab (W-211) with the new Anatomage Table took place in December 2019.

2020-21 The Cafeteria undergoes a complete floor to ceiling renovation with new lighting, furniture and audio/video technology. The school Chapel is completely renovated and redesigned. The “west wing” addition is completed and provides new spaces (orchestra rehearsal, choral rooms, and music library) for the Music Program and new Student Athletic Locker Rooms. Construction begins on the east side of the complex (late 2021).

Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

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The Campaign for St. Francis Prep

CAMPAIGN STAGE ONE

The Sesquicentennial Campaign • 2008-11 GOAL: $5 Million (Surpassed)

$1 MILLION AND ABOVE

$500,000 AND ABOVE John J. Brown ‘76

Peter Callahan ’59 and Family (Dedication of The Coach Vince O’Connor Physical Education & Athletic Training Center)

$100,000 AND ABOVE Anthony T. Corbisiero ‘78 (w/ The Soros Charitable Foundation) _______

$250,000 AND ABOVE The Estate of Hugh Fredin ‘44 _______

_________

The 150th Anniversary Gala _______

Michael A. Henning ‘57

Paulette H’08 and Vincent A. Toscano ‘53 (RIP)

Harvard Maintenance, Inc. (Dan Duffy H’02)

$150,000 AND ABOVE Francis J. Aquila ’75 _______ The Estate of Robert J. Crimmins ’56 (w/ Ridgewood Savings Bank Foundation)

__________

Clare and Joseph P. Walker ’57 (RIP)

$50,000 AND ABOVE Lisa and Jeffrey Alter ‘80 _______ Louis E. Marino, Sr. ‘52 (RIP) _______ The Anna E. Gallagher Charitable Trust _______ The Franciscan Brothers of_______ Brooklyn The Estate_______ of William Ruggiero Gerald P. Scales ‘76

CAMPAIGN STAGE TWO The Next 150 • 2013-2021

GOAL: $10 million (Over $10.6 Million Pledged to Date)

$1 Million and Above SFP Administration, Faculty Staff, Student & Parents via the Walk-A-Thon Joseph H. Pacifico H‘18 $500,000 and Above

$250,000 and Above

Jeffrey D. Alter ‘80

Julie Chen Moonves ‘87

CulinArt, Inc.

Michael A. Henning ‘57

The Estate of Joseph F. Wahl ‘54

Royce A. Mulholland ‘79 United HealthCare Services, Inc.

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Grad News Summer/Fall 2021


$150,000 and Above

$100,000 and Above

Elizabeth ‘80 and Robert J. Adams, Jr. ‘80

The Estate of Thomas P. Aylward ‘54 John P. Butler ‘82 Mrs. Eileen Corrado (In memory of Horace Cotter the former Bro. Placid)

_________

Francis J. Aquila ‘75 _________

The Estate of James E. McGlyn ‘49 _________

Phyllis Gambino-Skody ‘90 and William Skody H’20 _________

Clare H‘17 and Joseph P. Walker ‘57

William D. Maroney ‘55 Donald P. Devane ‘61 Christopher J. and Teresa A. Downing-Greene ‘81 John A. Fry ‘78 Harvard Maintenance, Inc. (Dan Duffy H’02) The Estate of Walter Kent Susan E. Loftus ‘76 Lucille and Louis E. Marino, Sr. ‘52 Mrs. James S. Mulholland, Jr. (In memory of James S. Mulholland, Jr. ‘41) New York-Presbyterian Queens The Theresa & Edward O’Toole Foundation Vincent F. Pitta ‘68 The Red and Blue Terrier Ring of Honor Gala

$50,000 and Above 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 Paul M. Jourcin ‘65 Edward M. Kelly ‘59 John J. Lafond, Jr. ‘78 William R. Lee ‘51 Aris J. McMahon ‘89 John P. Monaghan ‘54 Walter Riebenack ‘57 Martin G. Shannon ‘80 Robert A. Waegelein, Jr. ‘78 John J. Williams ‘58

$25,000 and Above 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 Terence W. Edwards ‘73 Louis G. Fellin ‘68 Daniel J. Finnegan ‘80 The Kresge Foundation Eileen T. LeMonda ‘78 John S. Pereira, Sr. ‘62 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 Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

23


The Campaign for St. Francis Prep

$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 Daniel J. Flaherty ‘59 Fidelity Foundation Harris Connect 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) Victoria J. Cerami ‘77 Charles Krpata ‘63 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur F. McMahon H‘04 S. Donadic, Inc. (Johnny Donadic ‘91 & Nicole Blaskovic ‘93) Whitestone Construction Corp. (Steve Grzic ‘94) $2,500 and Above Robert G. Adamo ‘72 Arthur J. Brown ‘53 Frank J. Cicha ‘80 Frederick Conroy ‘63 James P. Donnelly ‘56 Carol ‘83 and Jon Fredas ‘83 The Anna E. Gallagher Charitable Trust Carmine F. Greco ‘91 Anthony Grimm Daniel E. Henning ‘60

Capital Campaign Totals

Mary H‘90 and Roger Kobel H‘90 Louis S. Magagna ‘76 The Meehan Family Gift Fund Terrance J. Nolan ‘67 John J. Paguaga ‘78 Louis G. Pastina ‘75 Kathryn 2007 & James Pickel 2007 Vincent C. Porreca ‘76 Thomas K. Rudzewick ‘81 Donald R. Weber ‘77 $1,500 and Above Michael A. Agnes ‘59 Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F. H‘01 Albert G. Doumar ‘53 Brian S. Kightlinger ‘91 John Kirchhofer ‘92 Michael S. Pagano ‘80 Michael J. Quinn F. Gregory Walsh ‘55 Eugene P. Westhoff ‘63 Philip J. Wierzbicki ‘60

(as of 8/5/21)

Goal

Pledged to Date

Paid to Date

$5,000,000

$5,066,600

$4,054,800

Stage Two (Current): The Next 150

$10,000,000

$10,603,393

$8,230,144

Overall

$15,000,000

$15,669,993

$12,284,944

$1,718,480*

$1,687,040

Stage One: The Sesquicentennial Campaign

#TerrierSTAR: (Student Tuition Assistance & Relief)

The Chapel Renovation Project:

$71,580**

$71,580

* In response to Bro. Leonard’s mandate that “No student will be denied a St. Francis Prep education due to financial hardship caused by Covid-19.” **Also included in Stage Two totals.

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Grad News Summer/Fall 2021


The Chapel RenovaTion pRojeCT An Extension of The Campaign for St. Francis Prep and the Capital Improvement and Modernization Program

New Worship Seating (100 available) Dedication/Memorial Gift: $750 each

Individual, specialized/ cushioned chairs for the worship area. (See the artist’s rendering of the new chapel— to the right and below.)

A special 4”x 6” bronze recognition plate will be placed on the back of each sponsored/ dedicated chair.

The Brother James V. McVeigh, O.S.F. Memorial

Franciscan Devotional Wall In the New Chapel To Be Dedicated To Brother James

Memorial/Tribute Gifts In Honor of Brother James Guardian of the Wall: $500; Benefactors: $250; Advocates: $100

A Memorial Plaque Will be Created In Honor of Brother James whose unparalleled devotion to Saint Francis and the Franciscan Tradition is well documented. All Donors Who Help Create This Franciscan Devotional Wall Will be Recognized On This Plaque by Their Giving Category. The Devotional Wall Will Consist Of: •

A beautifully hand painted mural depicting Franciscan Saints meant to inspire and educate the school community and all who visit the chapel about the good works completed by Franciscans throughout history;

Proposed Saints to be illustrated: Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Clare of Assisi, Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Saint Pio of Pietrelcina (“Padre Pio”), Saint Marianne Kope (“Marianne of Moloka’i”) and Saint Benedict the African.

Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

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Remembering the Prep; Establishing a Legacy A planned gift has the potential to provide a meaningful gift to Prep along with membership in the School’s Bro. Ralph Clifford, O.S.F. Planned Giving Society, which honors all those who have made a bequest or other planned gift in support of St. Francis Prep. The following are a few benefits of Planned Gifts:

St. Francis Prep offers a variety of rewarding planned-giving options. Bequests This is a gift made by a provision in one’s will naming St. Francis Prep as a beneficiary. This can help reduce estate taxes.

• Provide lifetime income for you and, if you wish, another beneficiary • Give you a substantial federal income-tax charitable deduction • Enable you to turn low-yielding assets into a higher income stream • Reduce or eliminate taxes on capital gains • Eliminate or reduce federal estate taxes

Life Insurance & Retirement Plans If you own a life insurance policy that is no longer needed, it can be a perfect vehicle for a charitable gift! To receive a charitable deduction, name St. Francis Prep as both the owner and the beneficiary of the policy. If the policy has cash value, you can take a charitable deduction approximately equal to the cash value at the time of the gift.

Trusts and Wills All or part of what remains after loved ones have been provided for can be put in trust or directed for the use of St. Francis Prep. Assets can be put aside also for a limited period of time and then returned to the donor. Unit Trusts A Unit Trust has a fixed percentage rate of return on the initial principal value. Benefits include an income tax deduction, the avoidance of capital gains tax (when appreciated securities are used), as well as an estate tax reduction. St. Francis Prep requires a minimum gift of $25,000 to establish this.

Charitable Gift Annuity This gifts allows the donor to receive benefits for his/her lifetime and to qualify for charitable tax deduction. This form of support is attractive when one has highly appreciated assets. St. Francis Prep requires a minimum gift of $100,000 to establish this. Charitable Remainder Trust This form of support transfers assets to a trustee, who then manages the trust and pays an income back to the donor for life or for a specific time period. When the trust terminates, the remainder passes to St. Francis Prep.

Please consult your tax professional/financial advisor for help in determining the best charitable gift for your situation. Once you have your plan in place, please contact Director of Development, Robert T. Angeletti, at (718) 423-8810, ext. 269 or via email at: rangeletti@sfponline.org

THE BROTHER RALPH CLIFFORD, O.S.F.

PL ANNED GIVING SOCIETY Brother Ralph Clifford served as Treasurer for 35 years prior to his untimely passing in the Fall of 2002. His fiscal policies helped keep St. Francis Prep on sound financial footing. The Prep honored Brother Ralph’s memory in several ways. The Prep’s Auditorium was named in his memory and a special “giving society” was established in his name for alumni, parents and friends who include St. Francis Prep in their estate plans. Members of this giving society are invited each year to the President’s Dinner and will be afforded permanent recognition as members of The Brother Ralph Clifford Society. All estate gifts are unrestricted unless otherwise designated by the donor.

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Thomas P. Aylward ‘54 † Joseph L. Barbarino 1962 † Gerard J. Baxter ‘51 Charles A. Bennett ‘61 Walter A. Bishop ‘80 Brother Ralph Clifford, O.S.F. ‘48 † Danielle Connelly ‘05 Brother Leonard Conway, O.S.F. H‘01 Robert J. Crimmins ‘56 † Christine A. Del Favero ‘92 Paul V. DeLuca ‘51 Elvira M. DiBiase-Francischelli ‘75 Michael L. Doherty ‘77 Paul D. Duran ‘62 Richard J. Edwards ‘88 Dennis M. Esposito ‘60 James T. Fay, Jr. ‘57 † Hugh R. Fredin ‘44 † Phyllis Gambino-Skody ‘90 Francis J. Hannafey ‘49

Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

Robert G. Healy ‘42 † Michael A. Henning ‘57 The Estate of Michael J. Holmes † Terrance A. Howard ‘81 The Esate of Anna T. Hughes † Paul M. Jourcin ‘65 † Edward M. Kelly ‘59 Sister Mary Kenneth Lane, C.S.J. William R. Lee ‘51† Carol Leet Louis S. Magana ‘76 Anthony P. Maresca ‘74 Louis E. Marino, Sr. ‘52 † John McGinley H‘82 † James E. McGlyn ‘49 † Francis J. McKenna ‘38 † Aris J. McMahon ‘89 John P. Monaghan ‘54 † James S. Mulholland, Jr. ‘41 † Terrance J. Nolan ‘67

Alton J. O’Neil ‘45 Joseph H. Pacifico H‘18 John S. Pereira, Sr. ‘62 The Estate of J.B. Robb † William & Camille Ruggiero Charitable Remainder Trust † The Estate of Charles Shea ‘63† Kevin J. Sherry ‘66 Mr. Michael Sinatra The Estate of Margaret Sorensen † Robert J. Stenger H‘83† Bruce E. Thomsen ‘57 † Mr. & Mrs. Dimitrios Tsakonas Joseph F. Wahl ‘54 Robert T. Walsh ‘64 Kenneth G. Walsh ‘66 The Estate of Alan B. Weaver † Brother Alan Zodda, O.S.F. H‘05 † William J. Zuk ‘60 † = RIP


St. Francis Preparatory School

Office of Development | 6100 Francis Lewis Boulevard, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

LETTERGIFT OF INTENT FOR PLANNED OR ESTATE GIFT LETTER OF INTENT FOR ESTATE I/We desire to provide for the future of St. Francis Prep through a provision in my/our estate plans. I/We understand that this future commitment can be revoked or modified by me/us at any time. Name/s (Please include your spouse’s name if this is a joint gift)

Address

City

State

Phone

E-Mail

Zip Code

I/We have made the following provision to leave a legacy to St. Francis Prep (please check all that apply):  I/We have included the Prep in my/our Will or Revocable Trust. 

I/We have established an income-producing gift plan for the benefit of St. Francis Prep (charitable gift annuity, charitable lead trust, charitable remainder trust, other).

I/We have made other estate provisions naming St. Francis Prep as beneficiary (life insurance policy, retirement plan or IRA, other).

Please provide a copy of the relevant portion of the legal documents in which your gift is described, or you may provide a letter from your financial or legal adviser describing your future gift to the Prep.You may also briefly describe your planned gift for the benefit of St. Francis Prep:

I/We wish to inform St. Francis Prep, for long-term planning purposes only, that the current value of my/our future gift is: $ (If your gift is a percentage of your estate, please indicate the approximate value.)

.

Please indicate the area of the Prep's important work that you wish to support with your gift, such as unrestricted (general purposes, day-to-day operations) or a specific program, scholarship fund, etc.:

You may publish my/our names, as listed above, as part of The Brother Ralph Clifford Society, or other recognition societies, honor rolls, etc.

I/We prefer not to be listed, but will accept other benefits of membership.

Date

Signature

Phone: (718) 423-8810, ext. 269

Spouse’s Signature (if applicable)

On for Ol' St. Francis

Email: development@sfponline.org

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W H A T ’ S H A P P E NI NG @ 6 1 0 0 A Message from

Brother Robert Kent, O.S.F. Alumni Director Dear Alumni and Friends, Life in the time of pandemic for the last 15 months has posed unprecedented challenges for everyone, without exceptions. Despite the severity of these challenges, it is a blessing that through the unwavering commitment and dedication of the St. Francis Prep faculty, staff and administration, the students at the Prep were never deprived of a quality education. Of course, our world is radically different now, and perhaps it will never be quite the same in years to come. But adversity often has a way of summoning the best from each of us, and so we look forward to transcending the problems by creating new solutions. This past June 20th, St. Francis Prep celebrated the One Hundred Sixty -Third Commencement of the Class of 2021 on The Great Lawn of St. John’s University, in two sessions. This prestigious event provided affirmation to all parents and guardians of the student population 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 in recent days on account of the host of challenges during the pandemic. We can be proud that our seniors have matured so completely into confident, resilient and inspired young men and women. It is on account of the Prep’s vision to shape the whole student intellectually, spiritually, socially and physically, that St. Francis Prep was able to prepare our seniors to enter their local and global worlds with the prospect of making significant contributions therein. It is your faithful support of our Franciscan Mission, that will assist the Prep to generate and continue to nurture the future leaders of our world. The implications of your support are far-reaching, and it is on this foundation that we can entertain guarded optimism about the success of the Prep in the future. Please be aware that your general support bears much fruit and that it is appreciated beyond measure. But it Is your financial support, in particular, which helps to keep tuition at a moderate level for students. But

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Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

such financial assistance does not only reap tuition benefits, it also helps to transform and modernize the Prep’s physical facilities, even raising new state-of-the-art science, art and physical education buildings from the ground up, all to enhance the total learning experience of our students. None of this would be possible without all our benefactors. And so, we thank all those who help to keep the ideals of the Prep alive and well in our modern world. We hope to continue to count on your support in the future as we advance with courage and conviction towards the next one hundred sixty three years. I would like to take this time to recognize Dr. Gregory Marchildon who has made multiple contributions to our Prep Community and who is now retiring this summer. We salute and bid farewell to Dr. Marchildon for his commitment and many years of service in the Science Department. We thank him for the profound impact that he has made on the lives of those in his care. We are grateful that he has been our partner in our Franciscan Mission. Now it in time to smell the proverbial roses. On Monday October 5, 2020, we celebrated the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi with a liturgy offered by Father Ralph Edel. At the time, The Canticle Citation for 15 years of service was presented to Paul Cohen, Matthew Corrado, Danielle Forte, Kimberly Istrico, David Kobayashi, Nicholas Lombardo, Nicole May and Nicole Pasnikoff. The Canticle Citation for 25 years of service was presented to Anthony Grimm, Lisa Schaefer – Heur and Susan Sparagna. The President’s Award was also presented to Carl Frey for 15 years of service and Jean Truzzolino for 25 years of service. At this junction we would like to acknowledge the following achievements: • Jill Verdi received the Faculty/Staff Franciscan Spirit Award. • Amanda Strohm ’21 received the student Franciscan Spirit Award. • The Alfred E. Powers Memorial Award for Outstanding Male Student Athlete was presented to Peter Athanailos ‘21


• The Shelia Barrett-Knudsen Memorial Award for Outstanding Female Student Athlete was presented to Bridget Dwyer ’21 • The General Excellence Award and this year’s Valedictorian was Jessica Doherty ’21 • Diane Peck ‘21 was the Salutatorian • This year’s recipient of the Faculty Recognition for Educational Excellence was awarded to Linda Baldacchino of the Religious Education Department and Josephine Morrone of the Guidance Department. • This year’s recipient of the Staff Recognition for Excellence was awarded to Toni Murphy of the Admissions Office Department and Graziella Zerilli, Administrative Assistant to the Principal. • The Sister Joseph Agnes Hohmann, S.C.H. Guidance Service Award was presented to George Germanakos and the Campus Ministry Award recipient was awarded to Giuliana Ferazzoli ’21 All these dedicated individuals have given so much to our students, and over the years have deeply impacted the lives they have intersected. The tragic and horrific memories of 9/11 must be kept alive because we must never forget how such events both tore us apart yet, paradoxically helped to unite us as a nation. The heroes of this nightmare were just ordinary people who stood tall and performed extraordinary acts on this momentous day. Reviewing the news reports which chronicled the events of 9/11, one could not help but be filled with justifiable pride in all the heroic responders, many of whom had ties to the Prep community, in some way. Our condolences and prayers will always continue for all the families and friends who lost a loved one during this difficult time. We would like to take this time to congratulate the following Franciscan Brothers who are celebrating their Jubilees this year, and who are either alumni or former teachers at the Prep:

• Br. Robert Schaefer ‘50 - celebrating his 70th Jubilee • Br. Campion Lally ‘55 and Br. Adrian Fannon - celebrating their 65th Jubilees • Br. Warren Prentiss, Br. Jeremy Sztabnik and Br. Gary Gaynor ’59 - celebrating their 60th Jubilees • Br. Geoffrey Clement - celebrating his 25th Jubilee. May God Bless these men and grant them many more years in His service. As we welcome our new Freshman students 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 in the front pages of this publication.) We would like to express, once again, our deepest gratitude to all first responders, medical professionals and essential workers who answered the call of duty with selfless devotion, and who continue serving others even today. Their hard work, bravery, dedication and professionalism during these uncertain and different times serve to edify and inspire all of us. God bless our front-line heroes for their valiant service. As fall and winter approach, may the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi provide us with confidence to live our lives to the fullest each day and make a difference in the lives of others we encounter on our journey through life. 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 Blessing 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 in Forever” In Gratitude,

Bro. Robert Kent O.S.F. Alumni Director

P.S. At press-time, I learned that one our seniors, Joseph Hauser ‘22 will be joining Northeastern University’s Baseball team next year! Joe worked hard on and off the field. As a coach for more than 50 years, I’m always very excited to see our student athletes doing well! On for Ol’ St. Francis! - Bro. Robert Kent, O.S.F.

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Alumni Ne w s a n d N o t e s Hon. Lance P. Evans ‘71 ran for election for judge of the New York Supreme Court 11th Judicial District and won in the general election on November 3, 2020. Lance is an Ivy League graduate (Cornell), lawyer, professor, community leader. Congratulations, Lance!

Peter Callahan ‘59 started developing an interest in horse racing in the 1980s when a friend and business associate approached him about buying into three horses. That provided Peter with a path into the game. Later on his interest turned to breeding and selling. In 2020, he reached the pinnacle of the sport as the owner of the filly, Swiss Skydiver, who won three consecutive graded stakes races during the spring and early summer to become a divisional leader. (Peter named the horse after his granddaughter who sent him a video message of her parachuting over the Swiss Alps in November 2018.) Swiss Skydiver then won the 2020 Preakness Stakes, becoming only the sixth filly to win the second leg of the Triple Crown. She also won the Beholder Mile on March 13, 2021. She races in the red and blue colors!

Ben Ruggiero ‘60 organized a very successful luncheon on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at Positano’s, Bay Ridge. There were 18 attendees (13 from 1960 and 5 from 1959). The group was celebrating the visit to the Motherland (as Ben calls Brooklyn) of the Hollywood actor/comedian and former Prep baseball star Bobby Costanzo ’60. There was lots of baseball chatter between fellow teammates Bobby, Pete Callahan ‘59 and Ray Nash ‘59. “We all had a wonderful time reminiscing about our North 6th Street experiences, especially all the Franciscans and lay personnel who taught and coached us,” said Peter Corritori ‘59. Pictured below (l-r): Peter Corritori ‘59, Pete Callahan ‘59, and Bobby Costanzo ‘60.

Gerald Scales ‘76 helped secure a grant from The John Taylor Babbitt Foundation (JTB) which enabled Prep to acquire additional Automated External Defibrillators (AED) and two AED Trainers. (AEDs are used to revive someone from sudden cardiac arrest and the AED Trainer is a device used for teaching basic AED rescue skills and correct defibrillation procedures.) Gerry, who serves on the JTB Foundation Board (and also serves as Prep Trustee and as the V.P. of the SFP Alumni Board) said, “The JTB Foundation plays an important role in helping nonprofit organizations acquire AED’s, provide CPR training to help prevent sudden cardiac arrest and sudden death.” The JTB Foundation honors the memory of John Taylor Babbitt who collapsed and died while playing basketball with his friends (at the tender young age of 16) from an undiagnosed heart condition. The Foundation seeks to increase awareness about the severity and prevalence of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and to educate the public to recognize and respond to these life threatening events.

Peter has long been a generous supporter of St. Francis Prep and in August of last year, he contributed an additional $27,500 (beyond his original pledge to the #TerrierSTAR program). That amount represented 10% of the winnings earned when Swiss Skydiver won the 2020 Alabama Stakes at Saratoga Race Track. Thank you again, Peter and God bless you for everything you do for St. Francis Prep!

Class of 1980

The Class of 1980 shows their enduring Terrier Spirit at the 2021 Annual Golf Classic! Pictured (l-r): Tom White, Ray McCleary, Mat Roberts, Lori Mitchell Costello, Wally Bishop, Bob Hamilton, Gerry Boeckhaus, Marty Shannon, Bruno Mastropasqua, Sean Prendergast, Jack Kiley, Jean Colucci-Kiley, John Keane, Lisa Adams and Bob Adams.

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Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

Pictured above (l-r): Phyllis Gambino-Skody (Athletics Dept.), Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F. (President), Gerry Scales ‘76, Patrick McLaughlin ‘73, (Principal) and Sal Fischetti ‘83 (Athletic Director)

Congratulations to Christina Olson Miller ‘86! Christina completed the doctorate program at St. John’s University and has earned an Ed.D in Administration and Instructional Leadership. Great job!


The Danny Apicella ‘00 Memorial Scholarship The 10th Annual Dan Apicella Memorial Golf Outing was held on July 29th at North Hills Country Club. Scholarship awards were presented to two deserving seniors in the SFP Basketball program. Jaden Daughtry ‘22 (pictured above) and Chance Moorish ‘22 were named as the 2021 recipients. Congratulations to Jaden and Chance! And, thank you to the committee for your decade long commitment to keeping Danny’s spirit and memory alive. Pictured above (l-r): Mr. & Mrs. Apicella, Kevin Wagner ‘99 Jaden and his parents, and Coach Jimmy Lynch ‘99.

Julienne B. Ryan ‘77 At a time when we are overwhelmed with digital distractions, Julienne B. Ryan, Class of 1977 just wrote a book: “The Learned-It-In Queens Communications Playbook – Winning Against Digital Distraction” The book is designed to be a communications bridge builder by showing the challenges we share no matter what our background, education, or role. Any person who ever blurted out “What did he just say to me?” and promptly fired off an angry e-mail or text will benefit from the calm, practical advice. With common sense and humor, Ryan calls on us to find our virtual “Front Stoop” (a Queens, New York word for steps) and seek places and moments for an “in your space conversation” versus an “in your face “discourse. In an email message to Prep she said, “I thought about all of my English teachers as I typed my Queensite expressions. They did their best.” Besides being a writer, Julienne is an organizational storyteller, a keynote speaker, a facilitator, a softskills trainer, coach, and humorist. Married for decades to a Dublin Irishman, most of what she has learned about communicating, patience, and performing comes from living with him, a man who never met a sentence he couldn’t make longer. She’s been trying to get a word in edgewise ever since. Congratulations, Julienne!

Dan Ryan ‘86 and his family foundation, The Unsung Siblings Foundation sponsored it’s third annual Golf Outing at North Hills Country Club on July 13th. The Foundation was inspired from within the Ryan family: Jonathan Ryan (Dan’s son) was diagnosed with Autism 18 years ago and ever since, his two brothers, Michael and Daniel Thomas have given up so much to ensure his success. And before his untimely passing three years ago, Dan’s brother, Christopher Ryan dedicated his life to serving our veterans, in particular those who were homeless or suffering from substance abuse issues. The foundation provides scholarships and grants to recognize the effort and sacrifice that the family members of the special needs and veteran communities make every day. Last year Dan’s mom passed away as a result of Covid-19. In her honor the Foundation served

Peter Facinelli ‘91 After SFP, Peter studied acting at New York University, as well as at the Atlantic Theater Company Acting School in New York City. With more than 25 years of experience in the film industry under his belt, Peter has taken all the skill sets he’s acquired through acting and implemented them into being creative behind the camera. He wrote and directed “The Vanished” — a psychological thriller that stars Thomas Jane, Anne Heche, Jason Patric and Facinelli. It follows a couple who sets out to find their daughter who disappeared during their camping trip. Stopping at nothing to find her, their desperate search for the truth leads to a shocking revelation. Congratulations on this achievement!

On Saturday August 8, 2020, Brian Fink ‘04, an officer in the Port Authority Police Department’s Emergency Service Unit, participated in the second annual Navy Seal Hudson River Swim and Run. The three and a half mile swim and fitness event raises funding and awareness for victims of 9/11 and veterans who fought in the years following, through the GI Go Fund. The fund is dedicated to finding places for homeless vets to live and providing them with job training and entrepreneurial support, including those impacted by COVID-19. The events’ route began with a 2-mile run at Liberty State Park in New Jersey and a swim that included stops on ships at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, eventually concluding at the 9/11 memorial pools in downtown Manhattan. At each stop, participants performed push-ups and pull-ups to honor America’s liberties, diversity, and those who have fought to preserve them. Upon their arrival at Battery Park, the volunteers ran with American flags to One World Trade Center until reaching America’s Response Monument.

Wedding Bells

catered meals to first responders across the city and in Nassau and Suffolk counties. They also raised money to create a playground at St. Mel’s Church in memory of Thea Ryan and Catherine Cassandro. Pictured (l-r): Fr. Joseph Fonti, Pastor of St. Mel’s, Kimberly Ryan-Levin (Dan’s sister), Danny ‘86 and two of his three sons, Daniel and Michael.

Anthony Merkle ‘09 and Marissa RuotoloMerkle ‘12 (SFP Campus Ministry) were married on September 20, 2020 at St. Luke in Whitestone. Prep’s Chaplain, Fr. Ralph Edel was the celebrant.

Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

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2020-21 Terrier Athletics Season Round-Up

FDNY Promotional Ceremony On Thursday, April 15, 2021 at the FDNY Training Academy on Randalls Island promoting 118 Fire and EMS Officers. Pictured (l-r): Deputy Assistant Chief, John Sarrocoo ‘82; Battalion Chief, Patrick Keena ‘96; Battalion Chief, Richard Blasi ‘93; Battalion Chief, Patrick Depierro ‘93; Deputy Chief, Paul Mannix ‘81 (representing the Uniformed Fire Officers Association) and Battalion Chief, Craig Cardi ‘97. Congratulations to our sophomores, Seunghwa Woo and Sophia Leslie! They have been selected as winners for their outstanding art entry submitted to the New York City Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) 35th Annual Water Resources Art and Poetry Contest. Officials said, “The entry was beautifully executed and shows a genuine understanding of, and appreciation for, New York’s water resources.” They received more than 1,300 exceptional pieces of artwork and poetry from watershed and New York City students this year, making the selection process very challenging! All Water Champions (students with winning poetry and art) are invited to attend a special virtual event in honor of their outstanding work. Congratulations to these incredibly gifted students and to the members of SFP’s outstanding Art Department, especially their teacher, Dianna Shmerykowsky ‘01.

It was an extremely challenging year facing all of the obstacles and restrictions from Covid-19. We did our very best to have an inter-scholastic sports program. Instead of a traditional Fall, Winter, Spring season, we had a Fall, Winter, Fall 2, Spring season. Outdoor fall sports started in late September. Here is the recap: Cheer: Was non-competitive. We had complete season. We were very tryouts for JV and Varsity, training and successful with championships! The conditioning only. We had a positive Boys team won the City championship experience. and the Girls won the Long Island championship! Bowling: We started late but we were able to complete the season. Volleyball and Basketball: Were considered high risk sports. Because Cross country/Track: Started late of practicing indoors we did not have a but it was the closest to normal. Boys season, but we were able to compete in a team won the Brooklyn Queens tournament for girls volleyball and boys championship! and girls basketball. Football: We had a successful Fall 7 on 7 season. We also had a 5 week season in the Spring! Soccer: Started late, but we had a complete season. We were very successful with championships! The Boys team won the City championship and the Girls won the division championship! Swimming: The girls and boys had an abbreviated season with many obstacles to overcome and with steady perseverance by our athletes and coaches! Tennis: Started late but we had a

Hockey: We had a practice season but unfortunately no games were scheduled. Baseball: We started late but had a full season. Varsity finished in 2nd place. Golf: We had a competitive season playing all of our matches locally. Lacrosse: Even though we started late we had a good season. We won the division! Softball: We started late but had a full season. Varsity finished in 2nd place!

Franciscan Focus: A Reflection on The Brothers The Franciscan Brothers have had a great impact on many generations. Stories of their good works are often passed on to us by St. Francis Prep Alumni and are centered on their academics and/or athletic experiences. Every once in a while we hear from people who know the Brothers in a different context and we are delighted to share one such story that exemplifies their true spirit.

In the summer of 1958, as I was getting read to enter high school, something very special happened to me. I lived five blocks from a high school that was very well-known in NYC. The school was named St. Francis Prep. The church I attended, St. Vincent DePaul, was across the street. Next to the church was the Franciscan Brother’s house. A friend of mine worked at the Brother’s house and had mentioned there was a job opening. Well, I started working that week. I figured that the job would only be for that summer of 1958. I was wrong. I worked there for three and a half years during the school year and summer vacation. I mostly helped out in the kitchen, washing dishes, cleaning pots and cleaning room. After dinner, the Brothers always made sure we had something to eat before we went home. During the summer they would head out to a Camp on Long Island. They invited me to go. Thinking it would be a fun summer vacation, I went. I did work a the camp, but was able to enjoy being away and

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Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

spending time with the Brothers. They always looked out for me. They made sure I had what I needed. The Brothers were so good to me. I remember how they looked out for me during those years. When it was time to learn to drive they made sure I was enrolled in their Driver’s Education course. I wasn’t even a student at the school but they looked out for me like I was one of their own. It was an honor to work for the Franciscan Brothers. It was one of the most special times in my life. My parents taught me about being a good person. My parents and 33 Franciscan Brothers set that example for me. I was so blessed to share time with them. I always felt working with the Brothers was a Godsend. What wonderful memories I will always treasure. --John Colombo John Colombo shared this story with Paul Mannix ‘81 (FDNY), who encouraged him to forward it to St. Francis Prep. In a brief phone interview, John emphasized that the days working for the Brothers were “a truly special time in my life” and he said that they taught him many lessons that carried him through his life. John served two years in the U.S. Army and then joined the NYPD as a civilian employee, retiring after 34 years of service. He moved out of Williamsburg in 1971 and has carried these memories with him. Thank you John for sharing your story.


In Memoriam

as of 8/15/21

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. William A. McLoughlin 1940 Blair W.F. Allen 1942 Thomas Connors 1942 John Finan 1948 Joseph Hughes 1948 Anthony Russo 1948 George Oristano 1948 Gerald J. Coleman 1949 Robert F. Koehler 1950 Joseph A. LaMagna 1952 Frank J. Lacourt 1954 Joseph F. Wahl 1954 John J. Crowe 1954 Jim Hyland 1955 Roger M. Coleman 1956

Walter S. Dombkowski 1956 John P. Hogan 1956 John R. Lynch 1956 Eugene Lawrence Ryan 1956 Richard J. Teahan 1956 Kenneth R. Hogan 1957 Eugene C. Johnson 1957 Thomas Lally 1957 William M. Hickey 1960 Bro. Joseph Gallagher, O.S.F., 1961 Joseph L. Barbarino 1962 Robert Cresci 1962 Paul M. Jourcin 1965 William E. Kotas 1965 Thomas J. Conlon 1966

John Anselmo 1968 Peter Kobel 1972 Frank Serano 1972 Vincent M. Cronen 1974 Stephen Melcer 1974 James F. Angotta 1976 James Keane 1976 Richard J. Viscardi 1976 Robert Carollo 1977 Dana Diminich 1978 Michael J. Leon 1978 Aida Iacovone-Velez 1979 Stella Barresi 1980 John G. Spicijaric 1980 Susan LaSalle 1983

Eduardo Seijido 1983 Esther M. Bonacci 1984 Anita Unfried-Wunsch 1984 Vivien M. Veloso-Hegarty 1985 Kathleen Beggins-Fabio 1986 Robert C. Allison 1989 Mark Mako 1989 James McHugh H1992 Jon Cole 1997 Dennis DeFrank 2001 Diane J. Bollen 2002 Phillip F. Acevedo 2006 Natalie Fouche 2007 Tyler Roderick Mitra 2014 Sasha Stopanjac 2016

Family and Friends of SFP Robert J. Alter – brother of Jeff ‘80 Thomas Ashton- uncle of William Ashton ‘76 Carmen Aquilone- wife of Eddie ‘51 George Arhaniotis- father of Irene ‘22 Robert C. Allison ‘89- son of Robert Allison ‘65 Dagmar Andrade-Serranomother of Juan ‘77, grandmother of Cristina ‘11 Joshua Azon- former SFP student Karen A. Balezos- daughter of F. Gregory Walsh ‘55 Elvira Barriecelli- mother of Louis ‘79 Louis Biele-father of Diane ‘78 and MaryAnn ‘79 Hon. Cornelius Blackshearfather of Gregory ‘96 and Kevin ‘99 Christopher S. Boles- father of Eddie ‘81 Siobhan ‘83 and Deidre ‘87 Patricia Brix- mother of Kathleen Brix-Fallon ‘76 Gwen Sheridan Caracci- mother of Dr. Michael M. Sheridan ‘71 and grandmother of Toni A. Sheridan Totora ‘02 and Billie Jean Sheridan Gervasi ‘05 Elizabeth Carolan- motherin-law, Peter Murphy ‘82, grandmother of Ronan ‘17 , Marin ‘19, Kate ‘23 and Conal ‘30

James Cassano- husband of Dorothy H2010 and father of Jimmy ‘74, Peter ‘78 and Michael ‘80 and grandfather of Thomas ‘05 and Elaine ‘97

Capt. Michael Finnigan- cousin of Ed Moore ‘81

Mary Laddomada- mother of Nicole ‘23

Ed Gaffney- father of Mary Lee Gaffney Yamasaki ‘78

Marie LaRocca- mother of James (SFP Faculty)

Barbara Catalanotto H 1990wife of the late Andy H1990 and mother of Anthony ‘75, Denise ‘80, Diane ‘81, Vincent ‘84 and Kevin ‘88

Joseph Galanti- father-inlaw of Salvatore Ruotolo ‘83, grandfather of Salvatore Ruotolo, Jr. ’09, Samantha S. Ruotolo, Jr. ‘17 and Marissa Ruotolo-Merkle ‘12 (SFP Campus Ministry)

Robert B. Lynch-grandfather of Patrick E. Lynch, Jr. ‘09

Joan Coladner- mother-in-law of Helga Stabiner (Library staff), grandmother of Kristin ‘21 Eleanor Crowe- wife of John ‘54, sister-in-law of Arthur ‘57, William ‘62, Robert ‘66 and Dave ‘69 Marc A. DeLuca - Baseball Coach at St. Raymond’s High School Frank DiMaria- father of Rosa ‘16, Liliana ‘19, Alessandra ‘23 and uncle of Rosana ‘21 and Lucia ‘25 Geraldine C. Grein- mother of Jack Grien ‘79 and mother-inlaw of Anna Hernandez-Grein ‘79 Aaron Gudema- brother of Sofia Eide (former SFP staff) and Barbara Ciaravino (former SFP staff) Dan Gudema- brother of Sofia Eide (former SFP staff) and Barbara Ciaravino (former SFP staff) John Feehan- father of Susan Feehan Gidwill ‘78, John Feehan ‘81, David Feehan ‘84, Peter Feehan ‘88; father -in-law to Laureen Gutleber Feehan ‘81 and Patricia Harnett Feehan ‘88 and devoted grandfather to Lauren Gidwill ‘13

Eileen Giordano- mother Jim Giordano ‘92 and Denise Giordano-Caiafa ‘88 Margaret Heckel- mother of Walter A. Heckel III ‘85 and Amanda Heckel-Morton ‘96; wife of Walter (former JV Baseball coach) Jim Hyland ‘55- father of Joan ‘79, Ellen ‘80, Cristine ‘82 & Jennifer ‘83 William T. Hinchey- grandfather of Matthew Gebert ‘08 and Michael Gebert ‘11 Salvatore Iacullo- father of Paul ‘68 Joseph P. Iinitzki- former SFP English Faculty Ofelia Jaramillo- grandmother of Claudia Jaramillo-Lee ‘88 and Patricia Jaramillo ‘91 Janet Kelly- wife of Edwin Westley ‘61 Raymond F. Kopp- father of Lorraine Kopp-Crane ‘83 Scott Krempler, husband of Michelle Curran-Krempler ‘93 Elfriede Kump- mother of Helmut ‘83 Melissa Labbe- mother of William N. Labbe ‘22

Helen McCleary- mother of Ray ‘80 and Tim ‘82 Ellen McNamara-mother of Ellen McNamara Brandt ‘00, Genevieve ‘11, Noreen McNamara ‘13, Marie ‘15 Josephine Mancini- mother of Frank ‘76 and Elizabeth ‘79 Kathleen May- mother of Nicole May (SFP Technology Department) Edger Melo- father of Paul ‘84 and Meira Melo-Bloat ‘86 Debra Neville- mother of SFP freshman students, Matthew and Ryan; sister of Louis A. D’Alessio ‘95 Bertha Limo Newman-mother of Carmen Newman Bissell ‘85 James Vincent O’Connorfather of William J. O’Connor ‘80, Daniel O’Connor ‘81, and Jennifer O’Connor-Dennean ‘88 John R. O’Connor- uncle of William J. O’Connor ‘80, Daniel O’Connor ‘81, and Jennifer O’Connor-Dennean ‘88 John Joseph O’Hagan- father of Kathryn ‘86

Debra Palmieri- mother of Joanna ‘21 Rev. Paul Palmiotto- friend of SFP Joseph P. Portelli- father of Ethan J. Portelli ‘21 Mary Ann Riebenack- wife of F. Walter Riebenack ‘57 Giuseppe Ruggieri- father of Marianna Ruggieri-Marletta (SFP Faculty) John G. Spicijaric ‘80- brother of Mary Ann Spicijaric ‘84, (Fmr. Chair of SFP Science Dept.) Mary T. Stimus- mother of Nancy Stimus-Cheek ‘83, aunt of David Stimus ‘83, Dolores Martin-Ryan ‘86, Aileen Stimus-Leibman ‘87 & Jeanine Sapienza ‘91 William Stolfi- husband of Marianne (Ret. Faculty) Sasha Stopanjac ‘16- sister of Bozidac ‘22 and Andrea ‘19 Virginia Volpe- mother of Clorinda “Corin” Volpe-Tagios ‘83 and Joseph Volpe ‘86 and grandmother of John ‘19 and Peter ‘15 Geraldine Waegelein- wife of Robert ‘52, mother of Robert A. ‘78, Kathleen ‘76, Heidi ‘88 & Eileen ‘83 Arnold Wasserman- father of Ellen Arfanis (SFP Staff) Mike Zapf- loyal friend of SFP

Dolores Oristano- wife of George Oristano ‘48 Joseph Pahl- father of Joseph ‘93

Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

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year...great heart and demeanor.” Another said, “...such an inspiration! A real person of faith and spirituality in ACTION! I will always remember Sr. Mary as a wonderful supportive colleague and friend.”

Coach Jim McHugh

John Madri

Coach James McHugh H’92 passed away on October 16, 2020 at the age of 94. He was held in high esteem by many alumni. During his career at Prep (1950-1962), he coached teams to 29 consecutive major titles along with eight CHSAA City Championships including two in Cross Country and three each in Indoor and Outdoor Track. His relay teams set national records in the 1-Mile (1958) and 2-Mile (1954, 1957, and 1961). Under his guidance, five Championship of America titles at the prestigious Penn Relays were won between 1956 and 1958.

John Madri passed away suddenly on October 19, 2 020 at the age of 71. He began his career at SFP as an English teacher in 1972 and retired last summer. In June, he bid farewell to his colleagues via email amid the COVID-19 shutdown. “I have enjoyed every minute of my 48 years here and will miss you all,” Madri wrote. “In the words of Jacob Marley (with a little adjustment!), spoken to Ebenezer Scrooge in Stave 1 of ‘A Christmas Carol’ (all time favorite novel!), ‘Look to see me no more; and look to remember what has passed between us.’”

During WWII Jim served in the US Army Air Force, participating in combat missions in the air offensive against Japan. Before coming to St. Francis Prep in 1950, Jim graduated from St. Francis College and later earned an MA from NYU. His years at the Prep included teaching History and serving as the Athletic Director.

“John loved poetry and he wrote some plays also, but he always had his kids writing a lot and in the homeroom we shared it was always covered with the kids’ writing,” said fellow English teacher and Assistant Principal, Joe Castellano. He continued, “I think John really wanted to encourage their writing and make them feel good about it, knowing that was an important part of who they are.”

After his Prep days, Jim coached at Manhattan College from 1962-1969. During his tenure, Manhattan won nine Metropolitan Intercollegiate titles, recording two in cross country, four in indoor track & field and three in outdoor track & field. McHugh mentored 11 future Manhattan College Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. By the end of his coaching career, 17 of 26 Manhattan College track & field team records were shattered. He also became a US Olympic Committee administrator and later a long-time hospital administrator. He was inducted into the CHSAA Hall of Fame and into the Manhattan College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010. In 2014, St. Francis Prep inducted him into the Inaugural Class of the Terrier Red & Blue Ring of Honor. Jim attributed much of his coaching success with the Prep track program to the fine athletes and the significant interest and support of the Franciscan Brothers, particularly Brother Timothy Walsh, O.S.F. The Bernice and James E. McHugh Scholarship was established in his (and his late wife’s) honor by Track alumni. Under the leadership of Ed Kennedy ‘57 and Dan Corry ‘58, the Fund has awarded scholarships to many senior track athletes in good academic standing since its inception in 2007. Anyone wishing to honor Jim’s memory may donate to The Bernice and James E. McHugh Scholarship Fund at the Prep. Please keep the McHugh family in your prayers. Jim will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace!

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John and his wife, Martha Jane were married for 45 years. John embraced the Franciscan ideals of “caring for creation” and “live lovingly”. In addition to his love of literature and teaching, he also loved animals, nature and life. He would head outside every morning to feed the stray cats, Dr. Castellano said. In lieu of flowers, Mrs. Madre suggested that memorial donations be made the charity of your choice related to education, animal care or the arts - all areas that John was very passionate about throughout his life. May he rest in peace!

Sr. Mary Burke Sister Mary Burke died on November 23, 2020 in Siena Hall, Dominican Convent. She was 78 years old. Sister Mary served as a teacher and a served as Retreat Director at St. Francis Prep from 1978 to 1988. Sister Mary Burke made a difference in the lives of countless children and adults in her ministry. One Prep graduate posted on Facebook, “I have fond memories of working with her as a Peer Counselor in my senior

Grad News Summer/Fall 2021

She lived the goal of the Dominican Sisters in proclaiming the Word of God through ministry for justice and reverence for all creation for more than 60 years. We thank God for her life as she is welcomed into the fullness of God’s presence. Well done, good and faithful servant, Sister Mary Burke.

50th Reunion on April 25, 2009 at which Les received his honorary degree from the Prep: “.... I was fortunate to introduce Les who is such a humble and inspiring person. Les left the Prep after his junior year to support his soon-to-be family. He put family ahead of himself and we were all so impressed with his lovely wife of 50 years, Mae, and their two beautiful children Les, Jr. and Sharon. Les was unquestionably the greatest” trackster” ever at the Prep and still holds seven Prep records. His acceptance speech was so humble, unassuming and thankful, and characteristic of this true Franciscan. There were so many nice comments by classmates about Les and how his honorary degree was a fitting tribute to our entire class.” Les is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mae, and their two wonderful children: Les, Jr. and Sharon, her husband Kenny, and three granddaughters. Please remember Les and his family in your prayers. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Leslie Pinder H’1959 Leslie “Les” Pinder, Honorary Member of the Prep’s Class of 1959 passed away peacefully from natural causes on Friday morning January 15th at Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC. He had been experiencing various medical issues in the past few years. The Pinder family says that the highlight of his academic career was attending St. Francis Prep where he met lifelong friends who walked with him throughout his life journey. Terrier Alumni from the late 1950s will all remember Les for his friendliness and phenomenal track exploits. As a freshman, Les was considered talented enough to be placed on the Prep’s Varsity Track & Field team. Les quickly established himself as the best sprinter in the Northeast. He won 28 consecutive major meet events while amassing 11 St. Francis Prep school records in the sprints and long jump. At one meet he won the 100 yards, 220 yards and long jump against the best competition in New York and New Jersey. Les anchored the amazing St. Francis Prep team at the 1958 Penn relays that established a National record of 3:17.5. “Fifty years later we celebrated this memorable event with Les at Franklin Field”said Peter Corritori ‘59. Les always looked back at his years at the Prep as being among the happiest of his life. After his days at SFP, he worked for more than 30 years for a large clothing manufacturer in NYC’s Garment District. A naturally friendly and popular guy, Les was a regular participant in many alumni activities at SFP. He was inducted into the inaugural class of the “Terrier Red and Blue Ring of Honor” on March 5, 2014. In recent years, he was also noted for being a regular communicator via phone with his “trackster” classmates. Peter Corritori ‘59 wrote the following about Les in a note to the Class of ’59 after their

Midge Stack-Lennon A long-time member of the Prep community Midge Stack-Lennon was well-loved and highly-regarded by the Prep community. She retired in 2005 and the Alumni Association bestowed the title of Honorary Alumna (Class of 2006) the following year. In 2017, she was inducted into the Red & Blue Terrier Ring of Honor. The following appeared n the Seraph upon her retirement: “Mrs. Midge Stack-Lennon has been a part of the Prep community for 40 years. She had worked 9 years at Bishop Reilly and 31 years at Saint Francis Prep. Her enthusiasm is reflected in her work in the physical education department. She hopes that she has impacted the lives of her students by motivating them to “become ‘active’ adults in whatever they most enjoy!” Mrs. StackLennon’s favorite part of teaching at Prep has been her experiences interacting with the students. Mrs. Stack-Lennon’s future plans include moving to Pennsylvania, and continuing to educate others as a volunteer in her local library’s adult literacy program. Words of wisdom that she would like to offer the students at Prep are to “be open to all the changes life has in store for you.” - Nicole Palermo ‘07

A memorial Mass is being planned. We will convey information on the Mass when we learn the details.


Brother James McVeigh, O.S.F.

Priscilla Ornelas

On Friday, February 19, 2021 the world lost one of its most ardent followers of Saint Francis. Brother James McVeigh, O.S.F., a Franciscan Brother of Brooklyn for 55 years, passed away at the age of 74.

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Priscilla Ornelas, a former faculty member who taught Spanish from 1987-2010. She passed away on September 7, 2020. Ms. Ornelas created the curriculum for the first college credit course offered in the department —Spanish IV —a Spanish conversation class. She was the mother of two Prep grads: Loren (Class of 1993) and Alissa (Class of 1997). She will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace.

Brother James McVeigh was an integral part of Catholic education and faith on a local, state and national level. His beginnings were, without surprise, as humble as would be the rest of his life. Born October 10, 1946 in Brooklyn, he knew at an early age that God was calling him and received the Franciscan habit on August 2, 1964 at the age of 18. After making his first vows in January 1966, he began his studies at St. Francis College in Brooklyn Heights, which would ultimately lead to a degree in sociology. Brother James did have many titles during his 55 years as a Brother: Principal, Assistant Principal, Superintendent of Schools, Vocation Director, Vicar for Religious, Teacher, and Chairperson. A life-long educator, Brother James, when asked to reflect on his life as a Franciscan Brother, summed it up so well: “of the many titles I’ve had, the title I cherish the most is “Brother.” Brother James served in the Admissions Office at Prep where he also designed a program for the Franciscan Mission Coordinator and served as Moderator of the Franciscan Youth Movement. In 2007, he was appointed Co-Vicar for Religious in the Diocese of Rockville Centre while continuing his ministry with the Franciscan Mission. In 2008 he was appointed as Director of New Evangelization in Rockville Centre and there served as a member of the Bishop’s Cabinet. In 2015 he also joined Saint Anthony’s High School and served as the Mission Coordinator at both Prep and SAHS. At both schools he was most known for standing in the hallway every morning to greet students as they walked to class. Brother James continued to serve in many of these roles right up until the time of his death. Brother James had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed sharing a good laugh and was always seen smiling. He worked tirelessly to promote Franciscan Values and Vocations in everything he did. He always said, “keep smiling and continue to do wonderful things!” This is the memory he leaves to the many people whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace.

Joseph Hughes ‘48 Please pray for the repose of the soul of Joe Hughes, SFP Class of 1948 who passed away on October 9, 2020. He was 91 years old. Joe was the captain of the 1947-48 Terrier Basketball Team which won the New York City Championship. He was twice named to the All-Brooklyn team and once to the All-City team. He was recruited by St. John’s coach Frank McGuire where he led the team in scoring during his freshman year, before transferring to the University of Denver. During his time at Denver, he led the team in scoring and was selected to the All-Conference team before being drafted into the NBA. In 1972, Joe co-founded Carquest Auto Parts which expanded to over 2,700 stores in the United States, Mexico and Canada. A man of great charity and love, Joe and his wife have 11 children--six of whom are adopted--and 17 grandchildren. Joe kept in touch with St. Francis Prep by phone and mail in recent years. We were saddened to hear of his passing. Joe was inducted into the Red & Blue Terrier Ring of Honor in 2017.

William A. McLoughlin ‘40 Bill was a star on the Terrier basketball team for three years and graduated from St. Francis Prep in 1940 when it was located on Baltic Street in Brooklyn. Following his graduation in 1940 from St. Francis Prep, William joined the army in 1942 and worked during the war as a cryptographic technician, a member of the 89th signal corps, SIGABA group. William received the World War II Victory Medal, and the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal. He was discharged from the army in 1945 and joined the NYPD the following year. William retired as a NYPD Detective Sergeant, first grade in the Homicide division, on September 20, 1984 after a long storied career. In 2020, Bill celebrated his 80th Anniversary Reunion along with his 99th Birthday. If not for the pandemic that forced the postponement of the Annual Spring Reunion, Bill would have returned to the Prep celebrate this important milestone! Prep’s Alumni Director, Bro. Robert Kent created a special plaque (pictured above) so that Bill and his family could mark this special occasion. In the 1940 San Fran yearbook it was written, “Nothing gets Bill down. His smile is his fortune.” Up until the year of his passing, William was known for possessing a mental acuity that most individuals could merely dream of. To wit, his daughter, Denise said that he

could still recite all of the names of his 158 classmates in alphabetical order! He was the last surviving member of the Class of 1940 and we were happy to have the opportunity to recognize and honor him. Bill passed away peacefully on July 24th, 2021 of natural causes near Babylon, NY, which had been his home since 1952. May he rest in peace. We received the following note from his family: Dear Brother Robert, I wanted to let you know that my father, Bill McLoughlin, recently passed away. You and others at St Francis were kind enough to help my Dad celebrate his 99th birthday in March 2021, by sending him beautiful and meaningful gifts of his class memorabilia as well as a St. Francis sweater and cap. You helped give us all precious memories of him receiving those wonderful gifts...he was so impressed and proud! My family and I want you to know how appreciative we are for all your efforts on behalf of a very old school alumni ! Love and blessings to you…. Warmest regards, Bills daughter, Denise P.

THE ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS OF REMEMBRANCE Sunday, November 7, 2021

St. Francis Prep Brother Ralph Clifford Auditorium 6100 Francis Lewis Blvd., Fresh Meadows, NY All alumni, family, friends of the Prep community are welcome to join us as we come together to 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

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St. Francis Preparatory School Office of Development 6100 Francis Lewis Boulevard Fresh Meadows NY 11365

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PA I D Permit No. 658 Hicksville, NY

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

St. Francis Prep’s Annual Homecoming 5K Fun Run A to Our Tribute nders spo First Re

Sunday, October 24, 2021 This event will be the culmination of Homecoming Weekend and pays tribute to First Responders who are a part of the Prep community. This year’s honoree’s include Marc Hamlin ‘84, Assistant Chief of Police, Tampa Police Department (Ret.); Eddie Boles ‘81, Battalion Chief, FDNY & John Corbisiero ‘82, Inspector, NYPD. This year we will also be recognizing healthcare workers who are front and center in the fight against COVID-19. A special invitation to this event goes out to those alumni working in this field. Please join us as we express our gratitude and appreciation for all that you have done.

Award Divisions for Male & Female Awards Ceremony & Breakfast following the race!

In commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, a tribute will be held honoring the St. Francis Prep alumni who perished on that day. Friends, family and classmates of those individuals are all invited to participate. The festivities will continue at OSP (One Station Plaza) on Bell Boulevard in Bayside. Sponsorship opportunities are available for the race, breakfast, t-shirts, and awards. Go to the SFP Alumni Website for more information and to register for this event. You can also contact the Alumni/Development Office at (718) 423-8810, ext. 268 for more information. Alumni interested in joining the first responder alumni chapter can contact: development@sfponline.org.

Mass: 8:00 AM, SFP Chapel Check-In: 8:00 -9:15 AM Pee Wee Race: 9:15 AM 5K Start: 9:30 AM ~ Rain or Shine ~

Online Race Registration:


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