G r adNe ws ST. FRANCIS PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Summer/Fall 2011
The Alumni Magazine of St. Francis Preparatory School published by the Office of Development
New Facilities for
The Next 150
Coach Vince O’Connor, Bro. Leonard Conway, and Peter Callahan ‘59 in the new Physical Education and Athletic Training Center
Hallway and Classroom in the new Art Education Center
Principal’s Message Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F.
Dear Graduates and Friends, As I begin my 29th year as Principal, I look around at all the activity and the future plans, and I am reminded that this is a very exciting time in the history of St. Francis Prep—and that everything we do here is rooted in our Franciscan heritage.
in the country with another large freshman class and over 2700 students enrolled overall. More than 99% of the seniors go on to college each year, and the members of this past June’s Class of 2011 are attending many fine colleges and universities this fall.
Construction has been completed on The Coach Vince O’Connor Physical Education and Athletic Training Center AND The Art Education Center, with the formal dedication of these new facilities taking place on September 25th.
Know that your financial support helps in many real ways that have a direct and lasting effect on young lives. You help us keep tuition at moderate levels so that more students can afford a St. Francis Prep education. You also provide scholarships for deserving students and sponsorship support for needy students. And you will This is all part of our Master Plan for Modernization soon be asked to “make your pledge” to support our as well as The Campaign for St. Francis Prep which modernization efforts as part of our capital campaign. now begins its second stage: The Next 150. After years As always, I know you will do your best to assist us with of planning, the dream is finally becoming a reality this. thanks to the foresight of the Board of Trustees and the generosity of our alumni and benefactors. In closing, I hope you will look through these pages and read about the many wonderful alumni events Future phases of the Master Plan will include the and activities. Continue to stay involved with us and addition of a music and science building and a large new every so often say a prayer that the Prep will continue chapel situated above a totally re-designed entranceway its mission and meet its goals and objectives as we look to the school. ahead to a bright future. We have received re-accreditation from the Middle States Thank you and God bless you. Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools and our Music Department received a special recognition, with Yours in St. Francis, the Prep becoming the first high school to ever receive a separate music credential from the association. This underscores the fine tradition and reputation we have established with so many of our academic and extracurricular programs. We remain on solid ground with enrollment despite the Brother Leonard Conway, O.S.F. ongoing economic uncertainty, and we continue to be Principal the largest private, non-diocesan, Catholic high school
Highlights
GradNews
Alumni Events & Activities page 5-31
Summer/Winter 2011
Bro. Robert Kent, O.S.F. Alumni Director Robert T. Angeletti Director of Development Michael Graziano Assoc. Director of Development Sally Khan Assoc. Director of Development Maria Velazquez Asst. to the Director of Development Nancy DeStefano Assistant to the Alumni Director Alumni Editorial Committee Nicholas Moraglia ‘88 John S. Pereira ‘62 Gerry Scales ‘76
June Golf Classic Each year the Alumni/Development Team organizes more than 20 events and activities, from local professional chapter receptions to regional gatherings. One of the biggest events in terms of both fund raising and participation was our 18th Annual Golf Classic that was held on Monday, June 20, 2011, at The Cherry Valley Club in Garden City. Prep honored three very special individuals: Robert Adams ‘80, Bro. William Boslet, O.S.F., and Jeffrey Alter ‘80. The net proceeds of the event benefit the Prep’s scholarship program!
What’s Happening @6100 Francis Lewis Blvd. Page 32-39
Special thanks to: Rev. Bill Sweeney, Chaplain Jill Verdi, Yearbook/Phys Ed. Casey Smith, Art Department Tami Terzian ‘11 Sal Fischetti ‘83, Athletics Director Tony Grimm, Religion Nancy DeStefano, Alumni Relations Photo Credits Michael Graziano Frank Milano Music Dept. Faculty San Fran Yearbook Staff Please address all correspondence to: St. Francis Preparatory School Office of Development Michael Graziano 6100 Francis Lewis Boulevard Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 Phone: (718) 423-8810 FAX : (718) 423-7813 email: development@sfponline.org
St. Patrick’s Day Parade A review of how our students excel in science, music, art, and language (among other things), while performing acts of service which exemplify the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. For the third year in a row, hundreds of alumni, family, faculty, students and administrators gathered in New York City to march up 5th Avenue for the 150th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Cover Story:
New Facilities for the Next 150 Years: Page 40-42
St. Francis Prep Community Members who celebrate an anniversary of service or ministry during the
Feast of St. Francis of Assisi Brother Alan Zodda, O.S.F. on the occasion of his 60th Anniversary as a Franciscan Brother (2011) Brother Warren Prentiss, O.S.F. on the occasion of his 50th Anniversary as a Franciscan Brother (2011) Sister Mary Ann Napier, C.S.J. on the occasion of her 50th Anniversary as a Sister of St. Joseph (2011) Father Bill Sweeney on the occasion of his 30th Anniversary of Priestly Ordination (2011)
The Principal’s Award 15 Years of Service Nancy DeStefano (2011) Andrea Ferranti (2011) Nancy Locascio (2010) Jean Truzzolino (2010)
The Canticle Citation Award 25 Years of Service Maureen Logan (2011) Magdalena Ostaszewski (2011) Mark Teofilo (2011) William Turner (2011) Michael Caiafa (2010) Elizabeth Prohaska (2010) Joseph Sciame (2010) 40 Years of Service Brother Leonard Conway, O.S.F. (2011) Fred Salvo (2010) Carolyn Szostek (2010)
SFP Alumni Association
Calendar of Events 2011-2012
Sunday, September 25, 2011 Dedication of The Physical Education and Athletic Training Center and The Art Education Center Thursday, September 29, 2011 Philadelphia Area Alumni Chapter Reception Friday, October 7, 2011 First Annual Walk-a-thon Thursday, October 13, 2011 Homecoming: Three-on-Three Basketball Tournament at the Prep Friday, October 14, 2011 Homecoming: Alumni Golf Outing in Memory of Daniel Apicella ‘00 at Clearview followed by A Night at Sullivan’s in Bayside Homecoming Football vs. St. John the Baptist at Mitchell Field Athletic Complex Saturday, October 15, 2011 Homecoming: A Day at the Races at Belmont Race Track Sunday, October 16, 2011 Homecoming: 5K Fun Run at the Prep Honoring our 9/11 Heroes Thursday, October 27, 2011 Washington, D.C. Area Alumni Chapter Reception Sunday, November 6, 2011 Annual Memorial Mass & Brunch Saturday, November 12, 2011 Class of 2006 5th Anniversary Reunion
Thursday, January 12, 2012 Legal and Court Services Chapter Alumni Reception Saturday, February 4, 2012 Class of 2002 10th Anniversary Reunion Thursday, February 9, 2012 Healthcare Services Alumni Chapter Reception Saturday, March 3, 2012 Florida Area Alumni Chapter Reunion Saturday, March 10, 2012 Class of 1992 20th Anniversary Reunion & Class of 1997 15th Anniversary Reunion Saturday, March 31, 2012 Principal’s Dinner for Benefactors and Trustees Saturday, April 28, 2012 Alumni Spring Reunion Classes of ‘37, ‘42, ‘47, ‘52, ‘57, ‘62, ‘67, ‘72, ‘77, ‘82, and ‘87. Thursday, May 3, 2012 Financial Services Alumni Chapter Reception Thursday, May 24, 2012 Greater Boston Area Alumni Chapter Reception Monday, June 19, 2012 19th Annual Golf Classic at Cherry Valley Club For more information and/or to Register/RSVP for any of these events, please visit the SFP Alumni Website at alumni.sfponline.org. You can also reach us by phone at (718) 423-8810, ext. 269 or 259.
Saturday, December 10, 2011 Christmas Party for Our Friends with Special Needs Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
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Annual Principal’s Dinner The Annual Principal’s Dinner helps to recognize and thank the Prep’s key benefactors, trustees, and administrators for their many generous contributions to the school. Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F., hosted the event on Saturday, April 17th in the Prep’s Library. Alumni, administrators, spouses, and other family members were in attendance--over 150 people in all. As they dined, Bro. Leonard gave his “State of the Prep” address while Prep senior Tami Terzian ‘11 (now on a full scholarship at St. John’s University) and Raymond Pashun ‘06, (who went on to attend Notre Dame) spoke about their wonderful experiences at SFP!
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St. Francis
PREP ALUMNI
ROAD TRIPS:
Visiting Alumni In Chapters Around the Region
For the past five years, St. Francis Prep Alumni and Development Offices have reached out to hundreds of alumni living in places both near and far. Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F. often says “If you can’t come back to Prep, then we’ll bring the Prep back to you.”
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the exciting developments at St. Francis Prep. You can find all of the news, information and photos from our Area Alumni Chapters on the SFP Alumni Website at: http://alumni.sfponline.org
If you’d like to start and/or host a chapter reception in your area, simply contact either Bro. Hundreds of alumni respond with overwhelming Robert Kent, O.S.F. at (718) 423-8810, ext. 259 enthusiasm and gratitude. The chapters have or Bob Angeletti at (718) 423-8810, ext. 269. provided alumni who have relocated to other regions with a great way to keep in touch with We are grateful to all of the leaders in our area their classmates, network with other professionals alumni chapters for the loyalty, dedication and and make new friends while learning about all of service throughout the year!
Greater Philadelphia Area Alumni Chapter
The spirit and camaraderie evident in Prep’s Alumni Chapter in Philly live up to the city’s nickname as “The City of Brotherly Love.” Each year a group of alumni gathers for dinner in a central location. This past year, a dozen area alumni gathered together on September 23rd at the Blue Monkey Tavern in Merchantville, NJ, for a special dinner. St. Francis Preparatory School
Greater Washington DC
Area Alumni Chapter
On October 26, 2010, more than 31 attended the reception at Bobby Van’s. Participants ranged from a wide spectrum of graduating years. The Washington DC Area Alumni Chapter is as dynamic as the district itself--each year Prep hosts a reception of a core of faithful chapter devotees and welcomes a number of enthusiastic new comers thanks to the efforts of Chapter coordinator William Ashton ‘76. The next reception will be held on October 27, 2011.
Greater Boston Area Alumni Chapter
A dozen and a half members of the Prep Alumni Association from across the Greater Boston Area gathered at Maggiano’s in the heart of Beantown on May 12th for a wonderful dinner. The veteran chapter leaders welcomed their “newest” members as five recent Prep graduates who are now enrolled at Harvard and Boston University joined the reception. Mark your calendar and join us next spring on Thursday, May 24, 2012, for the 6th Annual Boston Area Alumni Reception. Check the SFP website for more details.
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
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Florida Area Alumni Reunion Weekend Friday & Saturday March 5th & 6th Friday, March 5th- 25 Prep Alumni and friends attended a Mets Spring Training Game followed by a home cooked BBQ graciously hosted in the home of Joanne and Bill Dunn ‘59. More than 40 guests attended the fun filled gathering that evening.
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Saturday March 6, 2011 A special celebration of Mass was offered and presided over by Fr. William Sweeney. It was followed by cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a wonderful dinner hosted by generous benefactor, Peter Callahan ‘59, at The Fox Club in Palm City, Florida. 11
Photos by Mike Graziano
St. Francis Prep LEGAL AND COURT SERVICES ALUMNI CHAPTER
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NYC Based Alumni Chapter Professional Receptions
St. Francis Prep FINANCIAL SERVICES ALUMNI CHAPTER
St. Francis Preparatory School
St. Francis Prep HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONS ALUMNI CHAPTER
These alumni chapter gatherings are just some of the many special events and activities that the SFP Alumni Association sponsors each year. In addition to these “professional” chapters, there are also four regional chapters, all of which have been established over the past few years by the SFP Alumni Board in association with the Prep’s Alumni Relations and Development Offices. All NYC based alumni chapter receptions were held at The Friar’s Club and were generously underwritten by Vincent Pitta ‘68, who has stated, “Every success in life I have had is owed in large part to my Franciscan elementary, high school and college education.” Pictured clock wise from top left: The Legal and Court Services Alumni Chapter on Thursday, January 13, 2011; The Healthcare Professions Alumni Chapter on February 10, 2011 and the Financial Services Alumni Chapter on May 5, 2011. Photos by Mike Graziano
GET CONNECTED & STAY CONNECTED
To learn more about the chapters, visit the SFP Alumni Website at: http://alumni.sfponline.org. Connect Your Services See what your friends are up to on other social and professional networking sites and share more with your friends on the SFP Alumni Website using the “Networks” link. Join Our Social Networks Make professional contacts on LinkedIn and find our “Latest News” links from the SFP Alumni Community website on the official SFP Facebook page.
Group Name: St. Francis Prep Alumni Network
Group Name: St. Francis Preparatory School
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View and download more Reunion photos at: alumni.sfponline.org
Class of 2005
5 th Anniversary Reunion
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November 20, 2010
Their first official Prep class reunion was a great success and enjoyed by all. After the gathering, many participants continued celebrating at the many restaurants located on nearby Bell Boulevard! Photos by Mike Graziano
View and download more Reunion photos at:alumni.sfponline.org
Class of 2001
10th Anniversary Reunion
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January 8, 2011
It was a cold winter night when 200 Class of 2001 alumni returned to Prep on Saturday, January 8, 2011, but there were plenty of warm smiles, laughs and memories to share!! Photos by Mike Graziano
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Francis at fun at St. re g f o t h ig n A , 2011. ay March 12 rd tu a S n o Prep
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Photos by Mike Graziano
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
Annual Alumni Spring Reunion & Hall of Fame
INDUCTION CEREMONY
2011 Hall of Fame Inductees
18 Dr. Gerard Hevern ‘68
On Saturday, April 9, 2011, St. Francis Prep hosted its Annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in the Bro. Ralph Clifford Auditorium. The evening began with a celebration of Mass, which was hosted by Prep’s Chaplain, Father Bill Sweeney. This year’s Hall of Fame Inductees were Jack Cahill ‘67 and Dr. Gerry Hevern ‘68. In addition to the prestigious Hall of Fame ceremony, four other very special members of the Prep community were recognized for their loyalty, service and dedication when they were conferred as Honorary Alumni of St. Francis Prep. The honorees are pictured on the opposite page from left to right: John A. Thomas ‘44, who was presented with his diploma by Bro. Leonard. Center: SFP Parents Joan and James Prendergast pictured with Alumni Board President, Wally Bishop ‘80. Right: Prep’s Development Director, Robert Angeletti, is pictured with Bro. Leonard during his presentation. St. Francis Preparatory School
Jack Cahill ‘67
Special Anniversary Classes of 1936, ‘41, ‘46, ‘51, ‘56, and ‘61 were welcomed into the Golden Terrier Society by SFP’s Principal, Brother Leonard Conway, and Alumni Director, Brother Robert Kent. (See photos on opposite page.) After the presentations, the reunion celebration festivities for the anniversary classes of 1966, ‘71, ‘76, ‘‘81, and ‘86 were well underway in the cafeteria, while the Golden Terriers enjoyed a more intimate reception in the library. (See the next pages for an array of photos from the evening.) The next Alumni Spring Reunion and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 28, 2012, at St. Francis Prep. Hall of Fame Honorees will announced by January 2012. The anniversary classes of 1937, 1942, 1947, 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982 and 1987 will celebrate! You can get more event information and locate your classmates by going to the SFP Alumni website at: http://alumni.sfponline.org. Photos by Mike Graziano
The Golden Terrier Society
Induction Ceremony Honoring the Classes of 1936, ‘41, ‘46, ‘51, ‘56, and ‘61 Saturday, April 9, 2011
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HONORARY ALUMNI
John A. Thomas ‘44 (r.) and Bro. Leonard Conway.
Joan and James Prendergast with Alumni Board President, Wally Bishop ‘80 (center).
Bro. Leonard (l.) and SFP Director of Development, Robert Angeletti
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
Alumni Spring Reunion & Hall of Fame
The reunion celebration festivities for the anniversary classes of 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, and 1986 took place in the cafeteria immediately following Mass and the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Several current and former faculty members were present and a great time was had by all! Next year the classes of 1967, ‘72, ‘77. ‘82 and ‘87 will be celebrating! Registration information can be found online by going to the SFP Alumni Website at: http://alumni.sfponline.org/
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St. Francis Preparatory School
Class of 1976
Class of 1981
Reunion of the classes of 1966, ‘71, ‘76, ‘81, and ‘86 Class of 1971
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Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
2011 New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Photos by Mike Graziano
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
Photos by Mike Graziano
HOMECOMING
G GAME
Honoring the LIFE & Memory of John “Zeek” Marchassalla ‘79
On Saturday, October 16, 2010, the St. Francis Prep community gathered at Mitchell Field to honor a revered player and coach—the late John Marchassalla ‘79 on the occasion of the 25th year of the SFP scholarship in his memory. “Zeek” was taken from us all too soon. He embodied the greatest elements of Terrier Spirit, Franciscan Values and Sportsmanship. Members of the Marchassalla family gathered along with scores of past players and coaches to honor his memory during a touching half-time ceremony in front of an enthusiastic crowd of more than 1,000. It was a very moving ceremony for the Marchassalla family, organizers and supporters of The John “Zeek” Marchassalla Scholarship Fund as Jack Grein ‘79 and Tony Truzzolino ‘79 announced that the committee had raised over $ 150,000 in scholarship support. Scholarship recipients were invited and nearly all of them were able to attend and participate in the special ceremony. Brian Murphy ‘87 Vito Seripiero ‘88 Edward Savidge ‘89 Victor Acuna ‘90 Michael Nevitt ‘91 Robert Nodar ‘92 Alexander Manolopoulos ‘93 Eric Klauck ‘94
Matthew O’Donnell ‘95 Teddy Damour ‘96 David Forman’ 97 Sean Hennelly ‘98 Giuseppe Roccisano ‘01 Christopher Zambrano ‘02 Natale Modica ’03 Thomas Forster ‘04
Larry Gallegos ‘05 Jeffrey Aime ‘06 Keith Ferrara ’07 John Sowulski ’08 Tristan Akong ‘09 Ryan Paccione ‘10 Frank Campisi ‘11
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
Homecoming 3-on-3 Basketball
Thursday Night
Photos by Mike Graziano
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On October 14, 2010, more than 100 alumni, family and friends turned out in support of the Homecoming Three-on-Three Basketball Tournament. It was created to honor the memory of James Prendergast ‘79 and to raise funds in support of an annual scholarship in his name. There was plenty of excitement for all as participants took part in various shooting contests. The evening concluded with an awards ceremony with plenty of cold refreshing drinks and food available!
St. Francis Preparatory School
weekend A Night at Sullivan’s
Friday Night
Last October 15th, more than 150 alumni, parents, and friends from across the generations gathered at the Annual Night at Sullivan’s in Bayside. The evening began with a one hour open bar and hot buffet compliments of Sullivan’s proprietor, Chris McManus. Dozens of raffle prizes were awarded and everyone went home with a complimentary SFP Homecoming T-shirt. This year, the reception will be held on October 14, 2011, in honor of Danny Apicella ‘00 and a memorial golf outing at Clearview Golf Course will precede the reception. Online registration and complete information can be obtained at: alumni.sfponline.org/events.
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
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Homecoming Weekend 2010
Saturday Afternoon
A Day at the Races
Photo provided by Belmont Park
More than 150 SFP alumni, family and friends gathered last year on October 16th in the Turf and Field Club Room at Belmont Park for the annual Day at the Races. The weather was ideal and guests received a private tour of the Paddock area and enjoyed a buffet lunch surrounded by private widescreen TV monitors and a private betting window. Join us again this fall on October 15, 2011. Online registration is available at: alumni. sfponline.org/events.
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Photo provided by Belmont Park
St. Francis Preparatory School
Homecoming Weekend 2010
Sunday
Morning
5K Fun Run
It was perfect “crisp” Fall weather last year on Sunday, October 17th, when more than 150 runners of all ages and abilities gathered to compete in the Annual Homecoming 5K Fun Run in memory of Capt. Vincent Giammona ‘79 who lost his life on 9/11. Awards were presented to the top overall finishers in several categories and a hot buffet brunch was served. Elizabeth Kalvoda was the first Capt. Vincent Giammona Scholarship recipient. This year’s event will be held on October 16th in honor of all those lost on 9/11/01.
Homecoming Weekend 2011 October
October
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Friday
Thursday
3-on-3 Memorial Basketball Tournament
• • •
Memorial Golf Outing at Clearview Night at Sullivan’s in Bayside Homecoming Football Game vs. St. John the Baptist at Mitchell Field Athletic Complex
October
October
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A Day at Belmont Park
5K Fun Run in Honor of our 9/11 Hereos
Saturday
Sunday
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Our 18th Annual Golf Classic was held on Monday, June 20, 2011, at The
Cherry Valley Club in Garden City. After playing a superb course and enjoying an outstanding cocktail hour, an awards ceremony was held during a wonderful full-buffet dinner in which we honored three very special individuals: Robert Adams ’80, Bro. William Boslet, O.S.F. and Jeffrey Alter ‘80. The net proceeds of the event benefit the Prep’s scholarship program! Join us next year on Monday, June 18, 2012.
Golf Classic St. Francis Prep’s 18th Annual
Presented by
The SFP Golf Classic Committee: Wally Bishop ‘80 Michael Mongelli ‘79 John Pereira ‘62 Gerry Scales ‘76 and the SFP Alumni and Development Team
Honorees (l-r): Bob Adams ‘80, Bro. Bill Boslet, O.S.F., and Jeff Alter ‘80. Photos by Mike Graziano
We thank all of our sponsors for their wonderful support! EVENT AND DINNER SPONSOR
UnitedHealthcare
LUNCHEON SPONSOR Bankruptcy Management Solutions, Inc. (BMS) & BNY Mellon COCKTAIL HOUR SPONSOR Bob and Lisa ‘80 Adams FRANCISCAN BROTHERS SPONSOR CulinArt Managed Dining Services SILENT AUCTION SPONSOR T&H Benefits, LLC • Bob Sherlock JOURNAL SPONSORS Mike Mongelli ‘79 Wally Bishop ‘80 GOLF CARTS SPONSOR TRITEC Building Company, Inc. DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR TRITEC Building Company, Inc. PUTTING GREEN SPONSOR Flynn & O’Hara School Uniforms RAFFLE PRIZE SPONSORS TRITEC Building Company, Inc. Primary Land Services • Tom Gebert ‘79 Harvard Maintenance Inc. • Dan Duffy H’03 Eileen LeMonda ‘78 The Nolan Group • Ed Nolan HOLE-IN-ONE SPONSOR Tower Ford of Great Neck, NY Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
What’s Happening @ 6100 FRANCIS LEWIS BOULEVARD St. Francis Prep’s commitment to providing an outstanding, well-rounded, Catholic education is well-documented throughout its long history. As we begin a new era, our 153rd year, it was reaffirmed as we witnessed our students excel in science, music, art, and language (among other things), while performing acts of service which exemplify the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi.
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Drama Society
The Art Department and the Alvernian Drama Society staged two performances under the direction of art department faculty member Donna Mejia this past year. The first was the perennial Christmas holiday classic “Miracle on 34th Street”, and the second was the timeless classic “Annie.” Both were performed in front of large crowds of alumni, parents, friends and faculty. Proceeds from “Annie” were directed to help homeless youth programs at Convent House. Special thanks to James McCullagh and his wife Jeanne Schneider- McCullagh ‘76, parents of Kelsey ‘12 (pictured in the photo above at right) and Colleen ‘05, for contributing their time and for providing the stage lighting equipment. St. Francis Preparatory School
Bronx Zoo Trip
In May 2011, The Science Department faculty organized a trip to the Bronx Zoo for the entire sophomore class. All faculty members and several staff members served as chaperones to the more than 750 students. The students were assigned various lessons which had to be completed by the end of the day and turned in to their teachers. The trip marked the start of a new tradition at Prep and in the coming years, each department within the school will organize a theme-based trip in subsequent years. Pictured above is SFP Math teacher Fred Salvo ‘66 guiding his group of students.
Poetry Writing and Reading
English teacher Eric Hafker ‘86 (pictured above) and the editorial board of “The Little Portion” assemble students each who have read, memorized, recited and even written an original poem of their own for publication in the Prep’s literary journal, “The Little Portion.” Many students volunteer to read their poetry at this annual event. Mr. Haftker reiterated to the students how poetry provides insights into the world around them, keeps the mind sharp, helps them understand themselves and others. St. Francis Preparatory School
Photos by Mike Graziano
A Tree Lighting in Brooklyn
The Prep String Orchestra and the Chorus were invited to perform at the Immaculate Heart of Mary parish in Fort Hamilton Brooklyn for their Annual Tree Lighting Concert on Sunday, December 12th. They performed an hour-long indoor concert to an overflowing crowd. Afterwards, our students sung “Silent Night” outside, on the front steps during the tree lighting.
Donation Drive Campus Ministry orchestrated the collection of thousands of household goods this Thanksgiving season to help supply local community agencies that serve the less fortunate among us. “Give From Your Cor” was the theme of this successful program.
Franciscan Youth Movement
Solidarity Sleep Out News Coverage NY1 News Assistant Alanna Finn ‘05 was at Prep in January to cover the story of our participation in “Covenant House’s Solidarity Sleep Out.” More than 100 students slept “outside” of Prep (under supervision) in order to raise both awareness and funds to combat Youth Homelessness in America. Alanna worked in Thailand for a year teaching English at a Catholic school prior to joining NY1! Alanna is pictured above interviewing Father Bill Sweeney. Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
Dozens of Prep students visited local nursing homes to bring cheer to the elderly and infirm. On December 15th students visited the residents of Queen of Peace Residence in Middle Village. They chatted with residents and distributed Christmas cards and letters from the Prep student community. On the 21st, they visited Ozanam Hall in Bayside. Meanwhile, hundreds of other students worked behind the scenes to prepare cards and letters which were delivered to service men and women in the Veterans Home in Fort Hamilton, Brooklyn. The activities of the Franciscan Youth Movement coordinated by Bro. James McVeigh, O.S.F.
A “Model” Student
Iyeisha Barrie ‘12 is an amateur model, singer and dancer. She appeared in the August 2010 edition of “Seventeen” magazine. Iyeisha is taking classes at Broadway’s dance center and is working on singing and acting. She will be attending Long Island University C.W. post campus and continuing to model for Epic Hollister on Fifth Avenue.
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Science Research Program
On Sunday, March 13th, our Science Research Program seniors competed at the Junior Science Humanities Symposium (JSHS) at York College. Paul Bergin earned First Place in Physics; Natalie Madrowski earned First Place in Behavioral Sciences; Kenneth Tong placed Second in Behavioral Sciences and, Sean Coffey took First Place in Physics. Paul Bergin, who placed second in the overall competition, was invited to present his work at the regional competition. This is the second year that a student from SFP has represented New York at the regionals. Congratulations to these outstanding students. Pictured at right (l-r): Paul Bergin Natalie Madrowski and Kevin Tong. Photo by Mike Graziano. Seven St. Francis Prep seniors were named finalists at The New York City Science and Engineering Fair (NYCSEF) Preliminary Event that was held on Sunday, March 6, 2011, at The City College of New York (Manhattan). The students were invited to participate in the Finals Event on March 29, 2011, at the American Museum of Natural History. The finalists are pictured (l-r) : Oluwadamilare Oyefeso, Meredith Mills, Sean Coffey, Sheree Brown-Carter, Divya Patel, Katherine Santana. Paul Bergin, not pictured, was also a finalist. He is pictured in the image above on the far left. Photo by Mike Graziano.
Nine Prep students earned awards at the New York City Science and Engineering Fair (NYCSEF), on March 31, 2011. The event is the city’s largest high school research competition. More than 600 students from around the city submitted applications for a chance to compete for a variety of cash and prizes including an all-expense trip to Los Angeles, CA. Pictured at
right(l-r): Sean Coffey, Kenneth Tong, Sheree Brown-Carter, Meredith Mills, Damilare Oyefeso, Paul Bergin, Divya Patel, Katherine Santana and Kaitlyn Smolen.
The goal of the Science Research Program is to stimulate independent and original thought through individual research in the natural and social sciences. Its success is due to the fine-working balance among the dedicated faculty advisors, talented young student researches, and supportive mentors. Congratulations to all of these fine students and to the St. Francis Prep’s Science Research Program faculty advisers, Mary Ann Spicijaric ‘84, Annette Kosiorowski ‘03 and James Boylan. Photos by Mike Graziano.
St. Francis Preparatory School
CAMPUS MINISTRY
Nurturing Faith and Spirit
After the Confirmation ceremony, students gathered outside American Martyrs Church for photo. Pictured from (l-r) Christopher Rodrigquez, Rachael D’Amoato, Natalie Pruden, Elissa Raduazzo, Mrs. Susan Vivona, Fr. Bill Sweeney, Michael Perez, Maithe Penaherrera, Helen Li and Steven Toumanidis.
Two years ago, Bishop DiMarzio gave Catholic high schools permission to pilot catechetical programs that would prepare teens attending those schools to receive the sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation. Fr. Bill Sweeney, SFP Chaplain, called a group of interested faculty and staff members together, and within a few months twenty students signed up for the program. Approximately ten faculty members from different academic departments joined the group to support the teens in their process of learning about the Catholic faith. Some adults shared faith experiences with the students, led special prayer experiences, or organized service projects. After a year of preparation, the students were confirmed in 2009 and they chose to receive the various Sacraments of Initiation this past April. Mrs. Susan Vivona, Religious Education Instructor, acted as a co-coordinator with Fr. Bill. Her efforts were instrumental in creating
a religious education curriculum that complemented the students’ academic Religion courses and challenged the teens to pray, reflect, and participate in community service to be ready for their big day. “The whole school community is proud to have teens who demonstrate such maturity in approaching their faith life. We welcome them to the Catholic faith and I think each one of
them is a powerful role model to their peers,” said Dr. Christian Sullivan, Director of Campus Ministry. Interesting Facts: In 2008, Bishop DiMarzio initiated a process of strategic planning for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn. Many statistics regarding faith practices of the Catholic community of Brooklyn and Queens have surfaced during this process of assessment, reconfiguration, and visioning for the future. One startling set of facts regarding young people revealed that since 1999, baptisms have decreased by 25%; First Eucharist has experienced a 30% drop, while Confirmations have decreased 11% (Christ Jesus Our Hope A Diocesan Strategic Plan for Renewal, April 2010). Consequentially, Bishop DiMarzio asked the Catholic high schools to help improve the relationship between teens and the Church.
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
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SFP Student Musicians & Faculty Travel “Home to Rome”
Travel is a great opportunity to experience the culture, food, music, history, and even a bit of the daily life of other countries. That, coupled with making music in other countries, provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our Jazz Band, Chamber Choir, and Chamber Orchestra “went home” to Assisi, the birthplace of our patron St. Francis this past summer. Other stops also included Rome, Florence, Orvieto, The Vatican, and Gallicano nel Lazio. The tour started with a stop at the Coliseum, an amazing dinner, and a night on the Piazza Novona in Rome. Then our series of four concerts started in Florence with the Jazz Band performing at the deconsecrated church of Santo Stefano al Ponte.
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For many, the trip all led up to a visit to Assisi. The day started with a private Mass at the church of S. Maria Maggiore, thanks to Brother Thomas Barton, O.S.F., who was in Assisi leading a pilgrimage for Franciscan educators. For many, the day included time at the Basilica of St. Clare (where the cross of San Damiano This was a great chance for Prep students to work side- resides), as well as taking in the peace that this city has by-side with their teachers and perform for a very to offer. It ended at the Basilica of St. Francis. The enthusiastic international audience. group’s final performance featured the Chamber Choir under the direction of group leader and music faculty The day in Florence also included a stop at the Academia member Rosie Pignataro ‘03 in the Upper Basilica Museum to visit Michelangelo’s David, as well as a lesson among the stunning frescoes by Giotto that detail the in leather craft, a staple of Florentine shopping. Prep extraordinary life of Francis. They enjoyed a farewell students and parents even got to model leather jackets dinner in a restaurant overlooking the Spoleto Valley for their friends and families. during sunset. The next day the group travelled to the medieval hill town of Orvieto, where all three ensembles performed at the Teatro Mancinelli. They were even featured on Italian television!
“When I had the privilege of going on pilgrimage to Assisi, Brother Tom had mentioned that the best way to experience Francis is to walk the streets he did, see what he saw, eat the food he did…in short, experience Assisi, said faculty member Robert Johnston. He continued, July 2nd found the group visiting two countries, as “Our students and many of their parents and siblings they spent the day in Vatican City, visiting the Vatican who came on tour with us had that experience, and Museum, including the stunning Sistine Chapel, and will be sharing their experiences with their friends and St. Peter’s Basilica. Then they headed to the nearby families for the foreseeable future.” town of Gallicano nel Lazio for the Chamber Orchestra performance in the church of Sant’Andrea. The Next year promises to be another very special orchestra was conducted by former Assisi pilgrims homecoming, as Prep ensembles will be visiting Ireland Robert L. Johnston and Mark Krolikowski. At the where Brothers Vincent Hayes and John McMahon left conclusion of the concert, both the Mayor and Deputy in 1858 at the invitation of the Bishop of Brooklyn to Mayor presented the Prep contingent with an Italian found what is today St. Francis Preparatory School. flag and a plaque featuring the crest of the town. St. Francis Preparatory School
MUSIC DEPARTMENT
If you’re interested in assisting the Music Students in offsetting the cost for this wonderful opportunity, please contact the Music Department at (718) 423-8810, x255, or email Department Chairperson Robert Corbino at rcorbino@sfponline.org. In addition to donations, we’ll be looking for auction and raffle items for our Music Marathon on March 18, 2012. We’ll also need food items, decorations, and people to volunteer their time, as well as just attending. Please do consider helping us in this worthy endeavor!
St. Francis Prep Awarded First-Ever Music Credential by Middle States Association The Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools has awarded St. Francis Prep’s Music Department the first-ever high school Music Credential. The process involved a thorough self-study of our current program, as well as setting long-term goals that will ensure continued growth and excellence. This is a tremendous honor which speaks to the outstanding quality of our music program, and we all join together in congratulating our Music Department Chair, Dr. Robert Corbino, and the extraordinarily dedicated Music Department Faculty for this well-deserved and ground-breaking recognition. All the more reason for us to look with optimism toward the next phase of the Prep’s capital improvement program (currently proposed for 2012-13) which is slated to include new, state-of-the-art science and music facilities.
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
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SFP TERRIER
ATHLETICS
St. Francis Prep has been continually nurturing great student-athletes for more than a century and a half. Our history is replete with stories of great teams, inspiring coaches and talented athletes.
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Ask our coaches and they will tell you that there are never as many trophies to award as there are great stories of individual studentathletic achievement. Whether its playing as a team or individual practice to master a skill, these highlights may only be known to the coaches and the athletes who reached their goals.
2010-11 Varsity Season
review
Boys Basketball Brooklyn/Queens Division I 7th Place City Playoffs 1st Round Girls Basketball Brooklyn/Queens Division I, 6th Place State Play-offs Semi-Finalist Baseball Brooklyn/Queens- 4th Place; Intersectional Quarter finalist Bowling 5th Place
We thank the teachers and coaches who inspire our students to reach a little further. We thank the parents whose encouragement and support along the way! St. Francis Prep salutes EVERY student-athlete, parent, coach, and manager!
Football AA Division – 4th Place; AA Playoff – Quarter-finalist
As we begin the 2011-12 season, we are reminded once again about just how fortunate we are to have so many loyal and generous alumni and parents supporting us. Evidence of this can be found in the newly completed Coach Vince O’Connor Physical Fitness and Athletic Training Center that will officially open this Fall. I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention the ongoing support of so many alumni, family and friends who help raise tens of thousands of dollars each year in support of St. Francis Prep! The Terrier spirit, pride and tradition is ever so strong and enduring!
Gymnastics Division 3rd Place
On for Ol’ St. Francis! Sal Fischetti ‘83 Director of Athletics
Golf A Division 5th Place City Play-off – Quarter finalist
Handball 2011 CITY CHAMPIONS Hockey B Division – 2nd Place Playoff Semi– Finalist Boys Lacrosse B Division – 4th Place; Play-off – Quarter-finalist
Girls Lacrosse B Division – 1st Place Play-off Semi-finalist Boys Soccer Brooklyn/Queens Div. I 1st Place; City Play-off – semifinalist Girls Soccer Division 1 – 4th Place Play-off – Semi-finalist Softball Brooklyn/Queens 2nd Place; Playoff – Finalist Boys Swimming Division 1 – 4th Place Girls Swimming Division 1 – 4th Place Girls Tennis CITY & STATE CHAMPIONS MAYOR’S CUP CHAMPIONS Boys Tennis 2 2011 CITY CHAMPIONS Boys Track & Field Brooklyn/Queens – 2nd Place Girls Track & Field Brooklyn/Queens – 2nd Place Boys Volleyball Division 3rd Place; Play-off Finalist Girls Volleyball BROOKLYN/QUEENS CHAMPIONS
Girls Varsity “A� Tennis
12th Consecutive State Championship 2010 Nassau/Suffolk Champions 2010 State Champions 2010 City Champions
Varsity and Junior Varsity Handball
9th Consecutive Undefeated CHSAA Championship for the Varsity Team. The JV Team won its 8th Consecutive Championship. The last 7 they were undefeated and this year was the 5th Perfect Season. Pictured: the Varsity & JV Team together. Photo by Mr. Frank Milano
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Boys Varsity Soccer
2010 Brooklyn Queens Champions
Girls Varsity Volleyball
2010 Brooklyn Queens Champions
Boys JV Soccer
2010 Brooklyn/Queens Champions, 2010 City Champions
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT UPDATE
Once a Dream, Now a Reality
New Educational Facilities Usher in a New Era at St. Francis Prep
The last time St. Francis Prep witnessed such a monumental change is when it relocated from N. 6th Street in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, to its present location in Fresh Meadows, Queens. Now, nearly four decades later there is a new energy and excitement in the air for students and faculty as the Coach Vince O’Connor Physical Education and Athletic Training Center and the Art Education Center are now open!
Board of Trustees drafted a new plan and a new timetable. It called for the project to move ahead in phases. Phase One brought the infrastructure upto-date. Phase Two ground-breaking took place in June 2010. Despite some obstacles, including the rough winter, construction progressed! This past spring and summer things really came together and on September 25, 2011, we will be dedicating Feasibility studies had to be conducted, financing the Coach Vince O’Connor Physical Fitness and arranged, architects and contractors brought on Athletic Training Center along with the new Art board. We were then ready to embark on a major Education Center at St. Francis Prep! $30 million capital improvement project in late 2008. Suddenly, the country found itself in the Overall, the new Coach Vince O’Connor Physical Edumidst of the worst financial crisis in more than 70 cation and Athletic Training Center is the largest and years. However, in the three years that followed, most advanced facility among local area high schools. our major benefactors stood by their campaign Thanks to a generous donation by Peter Callahan ‘59 pledge commitments and we even witnessed an and his family, the Prep was able to construct this magincrease in the overall number of annual gifts. Our nificent facility and purchase more than a quarter of a The process all began more than five years ago with a vision and a plan to improve, expand and update our instructional facilities at Prep. It was the eve of Prep’s 150th Anniversary. This plan would position St. Francis Prep to meet the demands of The Next 150 Years. But it was not without challenges along the way.
St. Francis Preparatory School
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Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
million dollars worth of advanced new training equip- Vince O’Connor hope to share with the next generation ment. Initial reactions to this new facility by students, by way of this new facility. parents, alumni and faculty members have been overThe Art Education Center at Prep whelmingly positive. The new Art Education Center adds more than 8,000 Mr. Callahan attributes much of his success in life to square feet of new instructional space to a program his Franciscan education which endeavors to develop that has long been recognized for the talent it attracts the whole person—social, physical, intellectual and and cultivates, but that has been notoriously short on emotional. (Note: Mr. Callahan is also a graduate of space. Now situated atop the west wing in the fourth St. Francs College, Brooklyn.) Mr. Callahan is ever so floor space that was formally the Convent, the Art Edumindful that a school with such a fine athletic tradition cation Center is refreshingly bright and spacious. It is as Prep should have a first-rate training facility named also very functional. Each classroom was designed to in honor of the man (Coach O’Connor) who gave so the specifications of the Art Department faculty with a much to so many over the course of more than a half more modern curriculum in mind. century. Darkrooms have been replaced by digital media classDuring a recent tour of the new facility Coach O’Connor rooms for instruction in both film and photography. said, “We’re all getting older, but he (Peter Callahan) SmartBoards have replaced chalkboards. A hallway still has a vitality and energy about him, and I believe “gallery” display area is now possible since there was no that’s because he was an athlete and he kept the impor- need for lockers in the corridor outside of the new classtant lessons and Franciscan values with him throughout rooms. “For the first time in decades, we can now have his life.” That is the lesson that both Peter Callahan and an ongoing display of the fine work produced by our St. Francis Preparatory School
students,” Art Department Chairperson Len Antinori explained. Until this year, The Art Department’s instructional space was limited to retrofitted classrooms. When describing one of the old spaces SFP Principal, Brother Leonard chuckles, “For those of us old enough to remember when Home Economics was taught here, we had a clothes washer and a stove in those classrooms.” The lack of proper facilities provided great challenges for the faculty, but it was never a total hindrance to student’s success. “With these new facilities, and others that we have planned, we can continue to strive even further, educate our students for demands of a new age and provide our faculty and students with working space that is commensurate with the great work they continue to perform,” Brother Leonard Conway noted.
Pictured above is one of the new classrooms which comprise the nearly 8,500 square foot Art Education Center. This particular space will be used for both classroom instruction as well as for video production/editing. Photos by Mike Graziano
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Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
Alumni Director’s Message
Dear Alumni and Friends,
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I am delighted to extend our warmest of greetings to you and your family from the Prep, and share the many accomplishments and achievements of our students, our faculty, our staff and our alumni. The Franciscan charism influences every aspect of education at St. Francis Prep. Encouraging our students to grow in faith, engage in activities to help others and serve as part of a team or club member attests to the presence of the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi in our midst.
al programs by providing more opportunities for our students. In order to show unqualified and complete support of the new “Walk-a-Thon,” every student at St. Francis Prep was required to secure a minimum of $100 in sponsorships and to participate in the event and complete the walk.
I would like to wish a fond farewell to Sr. Mary Kenneth Lane, C.S.J., Educational Media Center Throughout the pages of this publication, you’ll and Mrs. Marianne Stolfi, Social Studies, who read about all of the wonderful accomplishments retired from the Prep this June. Thanks for your and activities of today’s fine students and dedicat- years of dedicated service. Time to smell the roses! ed faculty, staff and administration. I am sure you will gain a renewed sense of pride and a greater As ever, I am truly grateful for all your efforts on awareness of why your ongoing support means so behalf of St. Francis Prep. I know that you share much to Prep! We wish to do something special with me a great respect and love for all the good and unprecedented at this year’s Homecoming. that is accomplished every day in this remarkable educational institution. May the blessing of St. On Friday, October 7th, St. Francis Prep hosted its Francis be with you and your family, now and all first ever Walk-a-Thon” fundraising event. All the the days of your life. proceeds from this event will benefit various vital projects and programs at the Prep, most notably Sincerely, the current Capitol Improvement and Modernization Project. As you may be aware, we dedicated our new Coach Vincent O’Connor Physical Education and Athletic Training Center as well as our Brother Robert Kent, O.S.F. new Art Education Center on Sunday, September Alumni Director 25th. These new additions to the Prep building complex will help enhance our existing education-
St. Francis Preparatory School
GRAD NOTES Raynor G. Gundersen ‘53 is married 33 years, has three children, 12 grandchildren. In 2005 he spent a year and a half in Bagram Afghanistan, keeping the soldiers warm in the winter and cool in the summer. He received two commendations and a special thanks from the French AIF stationed at Bragram in April 2007. He and his wife are now both retired and they share an interest in cruising the world for entertainment and knowledge. Daniel E. Toomey ‘57 is retired after 21 years from the Nashua, NH Fire Department. He is now working as the Director of Community Media at Lowell (MA) Telecommunications Corporation. He also produces a daily public affairs radio program on UMass Lowell’s WUML 91.5 F.M. George R. Gebus ‘60 is semi-retired, and works part-time for the Department of Labor as a District Medical Consultant. He reviews cases and determines if former Department of Energy workers were injured by a work-related disease. The program was instituted by Congress on July 31, 2001 and is The Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program (EEOICP). He works at home, and usually reviews a case each month, and uses the computer for any necessary research. He’s learned more about occupational medicine from this work. Salvatore J. Crispi ‘61 is semi-retired and currently works as Referee Director for the Walnut Creek Soccer Club, Walnut Creek, California and Camp Director, Piedmont Soccer & Track Camps, Piedmont Recreation Department, Piedmont CA. He’s still an active Soccer Referee and continues to officiate Youth, High School, Collegiate and Amateur Soccer Games. In addition, he is a USSF Soccer Assignor for some 500 Officials in 8 Leagues and 3 Associations.
Michael Strofolino ‘61 is a business graduate of Villanova University, class of 1965. He played professional football 1965-1969 in the NFL with the L.A. Rams, Baltimore Colts and St. Louis Cardinals. He was inducted into the Villanova Hall of Fame. Thomas J. Welling ‘61 established Welling Associates, Inc. in 1978, an NASD BrokerDealer specializing in retirement plans for employees of not-for-profit organizations. He sold the company to Arthur Gallagher & Co. in 1983 and retired as Chairman and President in 2002. Alfred Wittine ‘61 graduated from Notre Dame in 1965 and married Marion Stariha in 1965. They have two children and two grandchildren. Joseph V. Gallagher ‘61 has lived 49 years as a professed Franciscan Brother with ministries in education, counseling, clinic therapist and trainer in addictive treatments. George Mayer ‘61 has two Masters degrees and a professional diploma in Industrial Relations Studies from Cornell University. He served for 34 years as a teacher on Long Island and retired in 1999 as president of teachers union. He retired to Florida and is currently involved in arbitration and mediation. He is married for almost 45 years to the same gal (Mary) that went with him to the senior prom at the Prep. Robert Reavey ‘61 is happily married for 41 years, and has six children, and four grandchildren. Worked as a Programmer and then in management positions for AT&T for 23 years. He took advantage of retirement package at end of 1989. He worked at Affinity Federal Credit Union as a Systems Operations Manager for 17 years and retired in 2010.
John F. Donohue ‘61 is married in 1970, has three grown children, 4 grandchildren. John F. McCormack ’61 is retired after 33 plus years with the FDNY. He is married to wife, Carol for last 18 years and spends spring, summer and fall in Miller Place, NY and winters at Jensen Beach, Florida. Frank R. Dukes ‘67 was appointed Lieutenant Colonel, United States Army Reserve on August 13, 2001 by the Secretary of the Army, Thomas E. White. He was awarded the Iraqi Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal for Military Service with the US Army in Baghdad, Iraq in 2005. Frank was also awarded the Overseas Service Ribbon on August 8, 2007. He retired from the US Army on October 29, 2009 and retired from NYC Department of Finance on January 15, 2011. He is currently working as a Private Investigator in New York and Florida as well as a Consultant on Investigations and related matters. Patrick F. O’Brien ‘71 married his wife Mary in 1980. He retired as a Lieutenant with U.S. Park Police (Commander horse mounted) with 29 years of service in 2006. He then became an investigator for I.R.S. Currently an Investigator for U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs. He resides near Annapolis, MD. Erin McLoughlin ‘75 received the Neil Shanahan Labor Award for “leading with integrity and grace” from the Catholic Teachers Associations of the Diocese of Brooklyn in April 2011. She began her career with the Department of Education 27 years ago. She has two daughters, (Deirdre and Tara) and a son, (Shamus) who also graduated from SFP.
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Vincent A. Lopano ‘75 is a USA Ice Hockey Referee. Gerard A. Compito ‘76 has three great kids and a wife, Connie. He is Vice President, Medical Staff, University Medical Center at Princeton. Donna M. Cantrell-Gerzof ‘76 is married with two wonderful boys. She enjoyed 20 years in an active practice in Orthopedics & Sports medicine fields of Physical Therapy. She now serves as a part-time consultant for Autistic children. Michael A. LaForgia ‘76 has been married to Christine since 1986, and his three children are currently in high school. His daughters Cristina (Class of 2012) and Jaclyn (Class of 2014) attend Prep, while son, Nick (Class of 2012) attends Holy Cross. After 29 years with the NYC Department of Education in various positions including middle school teacher, HS principal, Deputy Superintendent, Local Instructional Superintendent (to name a few), he decided to pack it in and retire. He is the principal of Divine Wisdom Catholic Academy at St. Anastasia Parish in Douglaston, Queens.
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Susan E. Loftus ‘76 spent 18 years on Wall Street for Brown Brothers Harriman. After graduating from Harvard Business School’s executive program in 1998, she spent the next five years consulting for various notfor-profit organizations. She joined AIG’s international property and casualty insurance division, AIU, in 2003 and spent 20042010 living and working in Asia covering South East Asia and Greater China. She moved to Madrid in July 2010 with AIU’s rebranded international company, Chartis, to cover Emerging Markets division which includes Latin America/Caribbean, Middle East, South Asia, Turkey and Russia. Donna DeLuca-Ferry ‘76 is happily married. Her daughter graduted from Prep in 2010 and her son will graduate in 2014. Linda Yankoschuk-DiCarlo ‘76 and her husband Douglas and child Angelina moved in September 2008 from Northport to Centerport, just as third grade began in Harbor Fields school district. Their new home is near Franciscan Camp Alveria! Frederick Kress ‘80 is a Queens Park leader and the Executive Director of the Cornucopia Society. He is involved in many civic St. Francis Preparatory School
and greening meetings. He runs into many SFP graduates from across the many generations in his activities and concedes that “everyone at Prep received a great education and knows what it is to serve”.
Dana Hamlin-Vezza ‘86 is married 22 years and president of Marylou’s Dance Studio in Whitestone. Her son Adam graduated from Holy Cross H.S. and her daughter, Taylor, is on the Prep Tennis team.
Linda Wong-Ng ‘81 is currently occupational therapy director at Glen Cove center for nursing and rehab working with adults with physical disabilities. She has been married for 23 years to Rich and have 3 kids.
Peyman S. Zandieh ‘86 is married and has three sons. She has a busy OBGYN medical practice in Bethpage, L.I. and is delivering lots of babies, and would love to hear from old friends.
William Spencer ‘81 taught guitar & bass at First Flight Music in the East Village; since 2008 he has been active with “Musicians On Call”, which brings music to the beds of patients in area hospitals. He is the recipient of the Stephen E. Burdman Memorial Award in Economics. He sings bass in The Brooklyn Conservatory Choir.
Susan M. Bolster-Sagara ‘86 has been married for 15 years and has an 11 year old son, Justin. She is currently living in Tokyo, Japan.
Doris R. Varlese ‘81 received her law degree from Harvard Law School in 1988 and currently works for Mount Sinai Medical Center & Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Diane Catalanotto-Gafa ‘81 was recognized as Nurse of Excellence at NSLIJ Plainview 2011. Krystyna Pisarska ‘81 graduated from SUNY at Stony Brook with a BS in Psychology, and obtained her MS in Nutrition from Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons. She worked as part of a research team whose work was published in The New England Journal of Medicine and The FASEB Journal. She later went on to medical school at The NY College of Osteopathic Medicine where she received her DO degree in ‘95. She married while enrolled in medical school and completed her residency in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Columbia/Cornell’s NY Presbyterian Hospital in 1999. Edward Dainesi ‘81 is married with three children and is practicing Internal Medicine/Hospital Medicine in McMurray, PA. Edward P. Boles ‘81 is a lieutenant in the FDNY. He is the treasurer & legislative Chair of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association. He is also a recent graduate of Harvard Trade Union Program at Harvard Law School. Kyriakos Peponakis ‘83 is the Head Basketball Coach at Queens College.
Christina Buffamonte-Gerbino ‘86 is working as the Senior Content Manager of Good Housekeeping magazine online. She and her husband Doug, a Long Island school teacher, reside in Queens. Linda Donovan ‘86 is a partner in a law firm, Donovan LLP and is the mother of a one year old son. Alejandro R. Finardo ‘86 was appointed to the NYC Police Department in 1992. Retired with the rank of Captain in 2009. Appointed by Mayor Bloomberg to the position of NYC Marshall in 2009. Walter A. Gorelczenko ‘86 has been with The People’s Court since 1998 serving as a Legal Advisor. Frances T. Robles ‘86 covers Latin America-including Cuba and Haiti for the Miami Herald, where she has worked since 1993. Daniel F. Ryan ‘86 is the co-chair of the Long Island Autism Speaks Walk. He also served on the Board of National Alliance for Autism Research. He is pictured below ringing the opening bell at the NYSE on behalf of the organization.
Lorraine Zago-Rosenthal ‘88 is excited that her debut novel, “Other Words For Love”, was published by Random House (Delacorte Press) on January 11, 2011. Regina A. Harding-Bast ‘90 is married to William Bast, DMD, ‘86. They have three children ages 10, 8, and 3. Bill is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, practicing in Sayville, NY. Denise F. Barracca-Allmaier ‘91 married for 13 years and has two children. The family moved to Texas nine years ago and they love it there. She works in busy Fort Worth Trauma Hospital as a Cat Scan Tech and the rest of the time she is a soccer coach for her children’s teams and is dedicated to her family life. Karen M. Latimer ‘91 received Medcial Degree from Stony Brook School of Medicine and trained in family medicine at Columbia Presbyterian, NY. Maria Pang-Ho ‘91 graduated with a B.S. in Biochemistry from Binghamton University and a Ph. D. in Molecular & Cellular Pharmacology from SUNY Stony Brook. She is currently at Novartis. Lori Seeger-Graziano ‘91 received her Masters Degree in Education and taught at the Elementary level for seven years. She is now living in Orange County, New York and has been married for 12 years. She is currently staying at home raising her two beautiful daughters, Sarina and Ava. Alexandra V. Casten ‘91 is a personal manager for child performer son who now attends the Prep! She is a part-time Spanish teacher and substitute teacher at Our Lady of Fatima School. She also works as a nanny for several NYC families on weekends & nights. She is in the Mother’s Guild at Prep. Donna T. Wrublewski ‘96 defended her doctorate degree on September 1, 2010. Her Ph.D is in Polymer Science & Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is also now a tenuretrack faculty Librarian at the University of Florida in Gainesville Fl, responsible for the chemical sciences. She looks forward to hearing great things out of the SFP Science Research Program! Ellen Garrett-Petrangelo ‘96 attended the Rochester Institute of Technology to ma-
jor in Biotechnology and plays Division III softball. She was a four year starter and a two year captain of a team that ended up second in NY State. She met her husband, Matt, in college and they were married in October 2004. They welcomed their son, Alex, in January of 2007. They welcomed their second son, Ian in March of 2009. Luigi Pedalino ‘96 was very excited on Monday, February 28, 2011 when his wife, Erin Kathleen, gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby boy named Carlo Michael, who will hopefully be a member of the class of 2029! Melanie Napier ‘01 graduated from Harvard University in 2005 with a B.A. in Biochemical Sciences. She is currently pursuing a graduate degree at UNC Chapel Hill for Epidemiology. Brian Pavlovic ‘02 was married on October 16, 2010 and many other SFP alumni joined in the celebration. Pictured below (standing, l-r): Lianne Legaspi ‘01, John Kelly ‘01, Lars Pihlava ‘01, Michael Pavlovic ‘99 (the groom’s brother/best man), Melissa McCarthy Pavlovic ‘01; Michael DiMola ‘01. Seated: The bride, Amanda Finn, and groom Brian Pavlovic ‘02. After a beautiful ceremony and lively reception, the happy couple honeymooned in California.
Joe Pantaleo ‘03 recently graduated from NYU Dental School. He did his residency in Jamaica Hospital and is currently working in a family practice operated by fellow SFP alumna, Alexandra Simpson ‘06. Joe was the youngest person in his graduating class and he credits Alexandra with providing him excellent advice and guidance before he embarked on his path toward dental school education. Theresa Mendez ‘05 graduated from Saint Joseph’s College, Brooklyn in 2009 with a major in special education as well as general education birth to sixth grade. She is
currently teaching in an inclusion kindergarten classroom. She is also in her second year at Queens College for her masters in special education for children from birth to second grade. Catherine Pinos ‘05 is a New York Law School, Juris Doctor Candidate, 2012. Stephanie Zambrano 2005 is a candidate for J.D. at St. John’s University of Law class of 2013. Phillip F. Acevedo ‘06 is a Sophie Davis 2012 Medical Student who applied for and was accepted to a 2010 Orthopaedic Summer Externship at NYU’s Hospital for Joint Diseases. Working under Dr. Joseph Fetto, he completed a research presentation on Patellar Instability.
The Class of 2010’s Harvard Trio
Last year we reported that two members of the Class of 2010, Carlos Sanchez and Elizabeth Matomoros, were accepted to Harvard University. We were delighted and proud to learn that a third member of the class of 2010 is also Harvard bound! Kristina Saffran ‘10 is now among the elite few (less than 1% of all applicants) who was accepted to Harvard as a transfer student. In addition, we learned that the research work that Elizabeth performed while at Prep was published in a professional journal, Nature NanoTechnology. Pictured above: (l-r) Carlos, Kristina and Elizabeth at the 2011 SFP Science Research Symposium.
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
Nicole Hollant-Denis ‘83 Working to help Rebuild Haiti After EArthquake
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Nicole Hollant‐ Denis, AIA, NOMA, is owner and president of AARRIS Architects. Ms. Hollant‐Denis is a graduate of Cornell University and completed her master’s degree at Harvard University. She is the recipient of the NOMA, National Organization of Minority Architects, Honor in Design Excellence and a finalist of Building Back Better Communities, (BBBC) for Haiti competition. AARRIS Architects. Nicole is mostly known for the African Burial Ground National Monument, in New York, completed in 2007. AARRIS Architects Design Build has recently begun construction of their team’s competition prototype for an affordable and unique housing model in Haiti . As finalists in the Building Back Better Communities for Haiti competition (BBBC), sponsored by the Government of Haiti , with participation from the Clinton Foundation, their design aims to realize a
better and sustainable residential structure for displaced Haitians following the devastation of the earthquake in January 2010. The design (see image at right) is named affectionately, “Haiti - House for Life”, referencing the need for Haiti to provide permanent housing structures that will protect the lives of its inhabitants. The design is structurally sound and is flexible to meet International Building Code requirements while allowing for varying forms of sustainable construction methods and different construction price points depending on the property owner, family size and site conditions. Ms. Hollant-Denis, who is Haitian American, also dedicates this design to her late cousin, Architect Muriel Jolivert, and 5-year old baby cousin, Giovanni Guiteau who were lost in the earthquake last year, January 12, 2010. The winner of the competition will participate in the design of a planned community for 125 families in Port au Prince that will help shape the direction of major rebuilding efforts on the island.
Pictured above: (Top) Former U.S. President Bill Clinton with Nicole in Port-au-Prince. (Bottom) A prototype of an affordable housing model in Haiti that her firm designed.
John LaFond ‘78 appointed Global Head Of Business Engineering at Deutsche Bank John Lafond ‘78, a Managing Director at GBS /Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., has been appointed Global Head of Business Engineering. Global Business Services (GBS) is a 15,000 person division within the Global Technology and Operations group. John will also join the GBS Executive Committee, which is the top level of management which consists of just 12 individuals.
On handing over this responsibility at the end of 2010, John had taken on the role of forming and leading the new Strategy & Mobilisation team in GBS, as well as becoming the COO for GBS Americas. Over the last sixteen years with the bank, John has been in numerous leadership roles spanning IT, COO, Strategy and has been instrumental in leading several significant change programs.
In recent years, John has played the lead role in building the company’s Please join us in congratulating John Jacksonville office from scratch to on his appointment. the major success it is today. St. Francis Preparatory School
Brothers Tom Stith ‘57 and Sam Stith ‘56 Honored by St. Bonaventure University
Nearly 200 people attended a reception hosted by St. Bonaventure’s at Fordham last January just prior to the men’s basketball game. They were there to honor the late Tom Stith ‘57 and his brother Sam ‘56. Both were standout players at St. Francis Prep and later at St. Bonaventure. They were inducted into the SFP Hall of Fame in 2007 and were also honored at the Prep’s historic “Return to North 6th Street Reunion” at the close of the Prep’s 150th Anniversary year in October 2009. Tom passed away shortly thereafter in June 2010.
There have been so many glowing recollections and tributes written over the years about the Stith brothers and their profound influence on both Franciscan schools. Perhaps the most poignant of all was a tribute written by Bro. Michel Bettigole, O.S.F., about Tom which appeared in the Tablet shortly
the basketball legend’s recent passing. Bro. Michel wrote, “There were many winning teams at Prep in 1957, but none captured the imagination and enthusiasm more than the Catholic school basketball rivalries. In the midst of all of the talent, one stood out from all the rest.” “Tom and his brother Sam stood together on and off the court and they will remain in the hearts of Prepsters and the Bonnies for all time,” said Bro. Robert Kent. Pictured top left: Mrs. Tom Stith unveils the renderings of a tribute that will be created in honor of Sam Stith and his late brother Tom at St. Bonaventure during a special pre-game ceremony at Fordham University. Bottom left: Brother Robert joins members of the Stith family in the bleachers at Fordham following the ceremony. Photos by Mike Graziano.
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Tom Santagato ‘02 Pursues Olympic Dream Shortly after that he was invited to the Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, NY, to try out for the US Skeleton Team. (In the sport of skeleton, you sprint, all out, for about 30 yards before you jump head first on a sled and accelerate down a track at speeds reaching 80+ mph.) The coaches liked what they saw at the training camp and told him if he could commit to the Just a few months later, after forget- sport he could be really good in a ting ever filling out the application, couple years. After that camp, he he received an invitation. The goal- went home, resigned from his job oriented Santagato took a week off and has been pushing it to the limit from his job as a physical education ever since. “I am now a member of teacher at PS 177, a special needs the US National Team and represent school in Fresh Meadows, and was our country against international at the Olympic Training Facility in competition in races all over the Lake Placid. world,” Tom said with a great sense of pride. ing skeleton’s return at the 2002 Winter Games. “I was pretty much the size that they were looking for,” said the 5-foot-9 Santagato, who played defensive back at St. Francis Prep and football and lacrosse at Springfield College. “So because I had nothing better to do and I was in summer school, I filled this thing out.” Tom was working as a Phys. Ed. teacher and found that he still had the need and desire for athletic competition. He was on a summer school prep period in 2008 when he went to check the internet for the medal count of the Beijing Summer Games. A recruiting ad for the U.S. bobsledding and skeleton teams appeared on the screen. Santagato clicked it after remembering watch-
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
Deirdre Turner ‘06 Shows her Franciscan Spirit In an annual tradition at St. Francis College more than 150 people, including scholarship recipients and the people who funded their awards, came together for a special reception on December 6th. Deirdre Turner ‘06 was the recipient of the John Daniel Callahan Memorial Scholarship from 2007-20011. She told the audience what the scholarship meant to her and expressed her profound gratitude. The Turners are truly a true Franciscan family. Her dad, Bill, is a 25 year veteran educator at SFP and her siblings are all Prepsters too! Pictured (l-r) Carolyn Callahan, Peter Callahan ‘59, Bill Turner, Tara Turner ‘08, Shamus Turner ‘11 and Deirdre Turner ‘06.
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Wedding “Belles and Beaus” More than a dozen SFP alumni posed for this photo on July 23, 2011, in celebration of the nuptials of Denise Boorman ‘91 and Mike Healey. Pictured: (Bottom row l-r): Justine Popolizio-Augello ‘91, Michele Buoninfante-Blainey ‘91, Mike Healey, Denise BoormanHealey ‘91, Colleen ReillyFitzpatrick ‘91, Matt Boorman ‘93. (Top row l-r): Brian Kohm, ‘90 Gavin Blainey, ‘91 Chris Testani ‘86, Nancy L. Demers ‘91, Jackie Szewczyk ‘92, Korrine SheerinKohm ‘91, Christine DeLucaBertrand ‘93, Ingrid Popolizio ‘89, Tom Cassidy ‘89, and Roseanne Daly ‘92.
St. Francis Preparatory School
Prep Alumni, Family and Friends Honor Ann Guthenberg ‘01 In March 2001, family, friends and SFP classmates raised over $14,000 in connection with The Colon Cancer Challenge in Central Park in memory of Ann Guthenberg ‘01 who passed away in September 2010 after a long battle with cancer.
nie’s team” had the second highest fund-raising total out of over 500 teams in the metro area. Bob said, “The effort not only served to raise funds to honor her memory, but to help continue to raise awareness of the importance of screening so more colorectal cancers can She had proved to be a valiant oppo- be found earlier when the disease is nent to Colon Cancer for five years, easier to cure.” but lost the long battle three weeks shy of her 28th birthday. Bob and his wife MaryEllen expressed their profound appreciaAnnie is the daughter of SFP Math tion to the entire SFP community teacher Bob Guthenberg and he was for their overwhelming support and grateful to everyone because “An- friendship!
Krista Buccellato ‘06 is Flying in Madison Square Garden Aspiring actress Krista Buccellato ‘06 is thrilled to be playing the role of Wendy in the National Tour of “Peter Pan” starring Cathy Rigby. She’ll be flying in Madison Square Garden this December 2011! How did she get started acting? Krista says, “I started picking out songs I knew on an old moldy piano in my basement around the age of 5. When I was 7, I started piano lessons, but it only took two years to figure out what I really wanted to do was sing. 13 years later, my piano skills aren’t anything special, but my love of music took me to the stage.” Krista spent four years in Boston and graduated from Emerson College with a BFA in Musical Theatre and moved back home to New York and is actively pursuing a career as a singer/actress. She says, “It’s a crazy
endeavor, one I’m figuring out as I go (with help from my friends), but I couldn’t be more excited.” Congratulations to Krista! Everyone at Prep wishes you continued success in your acting career! Picutred at left (inset) Krista as Rapunzel in a production of “Into the Woods” at Emerson College. Below: Krista in Fulton Theatre’s production of “Sweeney Todd”, where she played Johanna.
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Don Kent ‘62 inducted into hoops hall of fame
Story and photo excerpted from NY Post Online. “Health Scares Couldn’t Derail Kent’s Journey to Hoop Hall”, 3/20/11 Written by Dylan Butler ‘92
Don Kent ‘62 was inducted into the New York State Basketball Hall of Fame, on March 20th, at the Glens Falls Civic Center. The Monsignor McClancy coach joins the likes of Archbishop Molloy’s Jack Curran, former St. John’s Prep coach Jimmy Gatto and St. Francis
Prep’s Tim Leary. Less than a year ago, Kent wasn’t sure he would live to see the day. Kent, 66, was diagnosed with kidney cancer, and when doctors also found a growth on his right kidney, he feared he would have to live the rest of his life on dialysis — or worse. “I was looking at cancer in the left kidney, the right kidney and the prostate,” he said. “I went to the library two nights in a row and I had to close the books, I got so terrified. You try to read as much as you can and gather as many facts and statistics. It’s scary. There were moments that I cried. I want to live, and I’m sure those words come out of every cancer patient’s mouth.” Last June 22, Kent had his left kidney with the cancerous, grapefruit-sized growth removed, and following a CT scan, heard the greatest six words of his life. “Mr. Kent, there is no cancer.” Kent, who has 432 wins in 39 years
of coaching, isn’t taking any chances. He said he has cut red meat out of his diet. He is eating green vegetables and organic foods as much as possible and drinking green tea. Under the advice of Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim, who survived prostate cancer, he delegated more responsibility to his assistant coaches. Now the late Jim Valvano’s famous words — “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.” — take on a greater meaning. “I’m living life, I’m enjoying life, but in the back of my mind, every time I go for the CT scan, I’m frightened,” the Brooklyn resident said. “I’m terrified.” But not today. Kent’s biggest concern this morning is making sure he doesn’t mess up his acceptance speech. “It’s an honor. It’s great to be recognized,” Kent said. “It’s a reward for 39 years of coaching and trying to help kids. I’m proud.”
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Jim May ‘76 Inducted into Girls CHSAA Hall of FAme Jim May ‘76 was inducted into the Girls Catholic High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame (Diocese of Brooklyn Ceremony) on April 14, 2011. Jim has been a faculty member at Prep, teaching Computer Science and coaching for the past 31 years. Between Cross Country, Indoor and Outdoor Track Jim’s teams have won 19 City Championships and 35 Brooklyn-Queens Championships. During the 1986 season, St. Francis won the triple crown of track, winning the city championship in all three seasons in the same year. Jim’s commitment and dedication to the sport of Track and Field and St. Francis Preparatory School
to his student athletes sets him apart from the rest. Jim and his wife Anne have two daughters, Deirdre and Jillian. Jim said, “The rewards I have received from coaching made all the effort worth it. I enjoyed every minute of it. The athletes I have coached over the years have been wonderful.” Pictured (l-r): Denise Hillig, President of the Girls Catholic High School Athletic Association in the Brooklyn Diocese, Jim May ‘76 and Marisol Solano ‘00 who spoke from the heart about the great inspiration that Jim was as a track coach. Photo by Mike Graziano.
Bob Torre ‘61 Honored by SFP Football program at Annual Dinner Bob Torre ‘61 was honored at the 59th Annual SFP Football Awards Dinner January. He was not only incredibly proud to be honored that night, but he was the most enthusiastic event honorees in recent memory. In fact, family, friends and colleagues of Bob’s sponsored a record number of dinner journal ads which totaled more than $25,000! Bob is no stranger to fund raising either. He is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Hackensack University Medical Center Foundation, where he is responsible for the day-today management of the Foundation and the overall fund raising plan and development program for the $1.4 billion Hackensack University Medical Center. He has devoted his entire career to public service at not-for-profit colleges and universities and hospitals.
He has served as a board member on numerous other non-profit organizations and has been recognized for his contributions to both his community and the healthcare industry on several occasions. In addition, Bob has presented papers and been a guest speaker at numerous professional fund raising conferences. He is the author of 11 published articles and one book, which covers all aspects of professional fund raising including media, marketing, direct mail and estate planning. Bob earned a BA in psychology from the University of Connecticut. He is the father of four children and has eight grandchildren. Pictured: Bob Torre ‘61 (right) with Coach Vince O’Connor at the 59th Annual Football Awards Dinner. Photo by Mike Graziano
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SFP Alumni Honored at Citifield Several St. Francis Prep alumni were among the community and business leaders who were recognized on February 3rd for their achievements at The Queens Courier’s third annual Rising Stars Awards & Networking Event at Citi Field. These “Rising Stars” were selected not only because they excel in their chosen professional fields, but because they are also active in giving back to the community. April Brown ‘88, is the Director of Corporate Relations at the American Cancer Society, and Frances Scarantino, ‘90, is the Founder and President of S.T.A.R.S. Youth Center. Neil A. Carousso ‘13, a a sophomore at St. Francis
Prep, whose involvement includes being an announcer on SFP TV and a reporter, received the “Rookie of the Year” Award. Neil is also part of a larger Prep family—his mother Rosemarie Agusta Carousso ‘81 and father Neil G. Carousso ‘81 are Prep graduates, as well as his sister, Christina Carousso ‘09. Former New York Met legend Darryl Strawberry was honored with the “Star of Stars” Award. Congratulations to one and all! Pictured at top: (l-r) April Brown ‘88 and Neil Carousso ‘13. Bottom: (l-r) Frances Scarantino ‘90 with Baseball Legend Darryl Strawberry. Photos by Mike Graziano
Annual Memorial Mass & Brunch Sunday, November 6, 2011
Each year, during the month of November, we remember and pray for all the deceased. We will once again gather as a community on Sunday, November 6th, for our Annual Mass of Remembrance. Together we seek strength and comfort as we continue our own journey of healing and reflection. At this Mass, we pray especially for all those who we have lost during the past year. All are welcome to join us and pray for all their beloved departed. This well-attended liturgy also provides us with an opportunity to bless the new and existing memorials on the Pathway to St. Francis as well as our “Wall of Honor” in the gym. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of two major losses faced by members of the Prep community. The first tragic loss became known as the “Father’s Day Fire.” It took place on June 17, 2001 and claimed the lives of three FDNY firefighters, including our own John Downing ‘79. Less than three months later, we lost 19 SFP alumni who were either working in or responding to the emergency at the World Trade Center on September 11th. A very special new memorial will be dedicated in their memory. All ceremonies will be followed by a complimentary brunch reception in the school cafeteria. Please RSVP by phone at (718) 4238810, ext. 259, or online at: alumni. sfponline.org so that we may make proper arrangements.
We Remember
September 11, 2001 Lawrence T. Stack ‘60 (FDNY) Marian R. Hrycak ‘63 John J. Kren ‘66 Andrew J. Desperito ‘75 (FDNY) Vincent G. Halloran ‘76 (FDNY) Timothy M. Stackpole ‘77 (FDNY) Kevin J. Pfeifer ‘78 (FDNY) Vincent F. Giammona ‘79 (FDNY) Alfonse J. Niedermeyer ‘79 (PAPD) Thomas Kelly ‘80 (FDNY) Matthew Garvey ‘81 (FDNY) John Sammartino ‘81 John J. Florio ‘85 (FDNY) Michael F. Lynch ‘86 (FDNY) Jill Maurer-Campbell ‘88 Cono E. Gallo ‘89 Michael E. Brennan ‘91 (FDNY) Michael Marti ‘93 Fr. Mychal Judge – Hon ‘91 (FDNY Chaplain)
St. Francis Preparatory School
In Memoriam Alumni, family and friends of SFP who have passed during the year will be honored at the Mass of Remembrance on Sunday, November 6, 2011. All are welcome to attend. Please see the alumni website for more information and to RSVP: http://alumni.sfponline.org Thomas Griffin Sr. 1940 William McCaffrey 1940 Patty “Tuffy” Tufano 1946 Charlie O’Neill 1948 John Dunleavy 1951 John Brennan Sr. 1954 Alfred Logozo 1954 Francis Kabisch 1955
Joseph P. Walker 1957 James Knott, Jr. 1958 Frank Montelone 1956 James Heverin 1958 Martin Hamburger 1959 James Brolley 1963 John Pirando 1964 John Zaptin 1968
James Breck 1976 Nancy Kostel Donlon 1976 Mary P. Murphy 1982 Raymond Ferguson 1983 Kristina Kraker-Blum 1985 Joseph Cunnigham 1986 Rosanne LaSala-Barre 1987 Neil Keating 1988
Thomas Zangas 1988 Daniel O’Connor 1990 Gregory Zaino 1991 Shani Duplessy 1997 Daniel Apicella 2000 Anne Guthenberg 2000 Ashley Frangella 2008 Theresa Buccellato 2012
Frank Arricale father of Frances ‘86 Jeremy Bannon Son of Dennis ‘73 E. Antonino Battaglia Father of Marco ‘91 John Benik Sr. Father of John Jr. ’95, Marie ’88, Karen ‘89 & Gary ‘02 Aiden Binkley Son of Lisa ’87 & Mike, nephew of Marc Hamlin ’84 & Dana ‘86 Hank Bolger Husband of Helen (former Secretary) Marie Boslet Mother of Bro. William Boslet, OSF (Superior General of the Franciscan Brothers, fmr. Faculty & Alumni Dir.) James Bryant Father of Jessica ‘13 Mary Burke Mother of Bro. Cletus Burke, O.S.F. Hugh Carey brother of Dennis ‘36, father of Christopher ‘66 Rosaria Caruso Aunt of Phyllis Gambino-Skody ‘90 Amanda Cespedes Grandmother of Catherine ‘11 Leonora Christiano Great-grandmother of Cheyenne Coco ‘13 Thomas Coccia Brother of Gerilyn (Guidance Dept.) Brian Collins Father of Alexis ‘12 Eleanor Connelly Grandmother of Meagan ‘14
Thomas V. Conroy father Thomas ‘68 Karen Conway Cousin of Bro. Leonard Conway, O.S.F. (Principal SFP) Robert J. Cunningham Father of Pat ’81 & Father Jim ‘86 Mildred Dalgish Grandmother of Alexandria ‘13 Anthony DeSiervi Father of Danielle ‘99 Thomas Devaney Sr. father of Decon Thomas ‘74 Richard DiFuccio Formerly known as Bro. Francis Regis Louis Ditizio uncle of Ann Marie Rich (Science Dept.) Georgann McDonough wife of James ‘50 Robert Eilbacher husband of Marie (fmr. SFP Nurse, H ‘07), father of Robert Jr. ’82 & Ann ‘80 Patricia Fahey mother-in-law of Bob Guthenberg (Math) John Flannigan Sr. Father of John Jr. ’86, Karen ’85 & Kristine ‘83 James Fleming father of Leigh ’08 & Allison ‘99 Franca Ganci cousin of David ‘88 (Science Dept) Bro. Marius Grone, O.S.F. Science Teacher Kathleen Harkins aunt of Father Bill Sweeney (SFP Chaplain) Sr. Eileen Hennlly, S.C. former Audio Visual Librarian
Marion Huldie grandmother of Kelly Ramsey (Religion) Donald Johnston uncle of Tom ’66 & James Curtin ‘69 Walter Kay father of Matt ‘96 & John ‘02 Kevin Kaufmann brother of Brian ‘11 Dorothy Lally mother of Bro. Campion ‘55 Antonio Leto brother of Angelica ‘11 Edward Maloney uncle of Pat Maher (Admissions) Gabriele Manzolillo brother of Nancy ’95 & Marco ‘00 Noe Maruca grandfather of Angelica Leto ‘11 Ed McCann uncle of Terry Kent James McHale father-in-law of Joseph Castellano (Assistant Principal) Josephine Melito mother of Nick (baseball coach McClancy High School) Sr. Virginia (Ginny) Miller O.P. SFP Faculty Member (Ret.) Jennie Mullen wife of Kevin ‘87 Anthony (Ski) Niedzwiecki retired Chief Engineer at SFP Josephine Parente aunt of Amy Filadelfo ‘99 Bro. DeSales Pergola, O.S.F. Librarian James J. Pesce father of Chris ’76 & John ‘78
Regina Powers wife of Tim (friend of SFP) Ramon Ramirez uncle of Laura ‘13 Tanaya Ramos aunt of Nia Rollins ‘13 Lucy Russo mother of Patrick ‘65 Joe Sciemecca husband of Marcia, father of Louis ‘77, Nancy ‘79 and David ‘81 Thomas Shea Friend of SFP Daniel Sosa uncle of Laura Ramirez ‘13 Anne Marie Stilwell sister of Sr. Philip Kiely (Computer Dept.) Steven A. Toscano son of Vince ’53 & Paulette H’08 Joan VanGrembergen mother of Joseph ’77 & (long time volunteer at (SFP) Lucy Waldmann grandmother of Bro. Mark Jean Williams wife of Dr. John ‘58 Rose Wish great-grandmother of Alexandria Dalgish-Choi ‘13 Rocco Varlese father of Felicia ’79, Doris ’81, Laura ’85 & father-in-law of William Viscovich ‘79 Ana Veronica Zavando aunt of Rafael ‘05
Grad News Summer/Fall 2011
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