Collegiate Winter 2018

THE

collegiate MAGAZINE OF ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE

WINTER 2018

IN THIS EDITION: THE POWER OF OPPORTUNITY | AN EVENING IN TRIBUTE

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Our Mission: St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute transforms the lives of students from diverse backgrounds through academic excellence and care for the whole person in a respectful, Lasallian Catholic community, developing each student’s unique talents in preparation for college and life.

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Robert T. Scott, AFSC President Brother Christopher Belleman, FSC Principal Suzanne Badgley Director of Marketing & Communications

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Peter Kennedy ’97 Director of Admissions Patrick McNally ’01 Vice President of Institutional Advancement Joseph Pernick ’10 Alumni Engagement & Development Officer James Corra ’13 Lasallian Fellow & Contributing Writer

/sjcipage

@sjci

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@sjci

St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute 845 Kenmore Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14223 716.874.4024 sjci.com Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication.

Please contact us with any questions or comments at advancement@sjci.com or 716.874.4024.

1 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE

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The Collegiate Winter 2018 IN THIS ISSUE

3 Message from the President

4-7 Power of Opportunities

8 An Impactful Partnership

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Alumni Spotlight: Music & Ministry

11 An Evening in Tribute

12 The Highest Honor

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13-14 Alumni News & Notes

Cover photo: Vincent Christiano ’18 prepared for his live broadcast.

Story on page 5.

Photo taken by Photography Teacher James McCoy.

WINTER 2018 • 2

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT For me, this has been a most special year.

In August, I began visiting alumni and close friends of our school across the country. From San Francisco to Atlanta, Cleveland to Chicago, and Sarasota to Buffalo, there are common values within our unique Lasallian tradition that connect the men who graduate from St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute: personal integrity, a concern for other people, a capacity for hard work, and a deep well of faith.

While our alumni do share core principals, it is most remarkable as to how different they all are. In nearly forty-eight years of experience, I can say honestly that no two St. Joe’s men are the same. I think of the telecommunications CEO in Chicago who carves out company time for his employees to serve their community each month; the young alumnus who was inspired by Mr. James Deiotte and is now the vocal music director for an all-boys school in Cleveland; or the celebrity tennis pro in Los Angeles who most enjoys working with children who are growing up in impoverished neighborhoods.

The professional interests and accomplishments of our alumni are incredibly diverse, but – for many of us at St. Joe’s – this wide range of experience, personalities, and passions is not so surprising. We see it in our current students every day. And in this issue of The Collegiate, I hope you will experience the unique opportunity our young men have to develop their interests and craft their stories.

Our school excels at preparing our students to succeed academically in college. But the four years of high school can be – and should be – about so much more. Before a freshman enters our halls, he is often unsure of himself and his abilities; he is under the pressure of adolescence, heightened by social media and a culture rife with negativity.

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But at St. Joe’s, we welcome every young man, encourage him to discover who he is, and – perhaps most importantly – to become comfortable with himself. We help our students “figure it out” and develop a self-confidence that will remain with them throughout their lives. We teach them to rely on each other, and to celebrate the talents of their classmates.

It may sound simple, but so much of our work is focused on encouraging our students to be themselves. Whatever you are good at – whatever you like – there is a place at St. Joe’s for every young man who wants to be here and is willing to work hard to succeed.

That – I believe – is the unique value of St. Joe’s. That is why our alumni lead such interesting lives of accomplishment and service, and why our current students find their distinct identities in passions that range from play-by-play announcing to stage crew to downhill skiing – and so much more.

For a man who began his career teaching religion to sophomores, I have learned that the spark of divinity – the Holy Presence of God – is there in each student. Our responsibility is to recognize it, and do our absolute best to help our students understand their own value. As Lasallian educators, we accomplish this through serving as “big brothers” and “big sisters” to our students.

We keep them accountable now so that they will hold themselves to a high standard of character tomorrow.

On the road this year, I have met so many of those former students. We have shared many laughs – even occasionally about a trip or two to the Vice Principal’s office.

We have fondly remembered legends of the teaching faculty and dear friends who are no longer with us. And we have reflected upon the influence of St. Joe’s in our own lives – and the incredible work that continues to

happen here at 845 Kenmore every single day.

In my role as President, I am privileged to serve as one point of connection between the past and present, between our alumni and our current students. I am honored to tell the stories of our young men as I know them now, and so proud to witness the generosity today of earlier classes of Marauders.

Every day at St. Joe’s is about opportunity – the chance to become the best version of yourself, whoever you might be. This year our community has focused on creating the opportunity of a St. Joe’s education for students who – without our benefactors – simply could never experience it. As I look forward to the months ahead, I am so excited to continue seeing our current students develop their unique talents and to spend time with the alumni and friends who will make St. Joe’s possible for the next generation of young men.

I hope to see you along the way.

Robert T. Scott, AFSC President

FEATURE STORY THE POWER OF OPPORTUNITY Tucked inside our mission statement are five words that we take very seriously: developing each student’s unique talents. As a large and diverse school community, this is no small task. But for the faculty and staff of St. Joe’s, these words represent the commitment to offering meaningful opportunities to each young man beyond his academic needs, as well as the importance of these opportunities for his development.

Many students call St. Joe’s their second home, referring to the hours spent after the normal school day with friends, faculty, coaches, and mentors. On the pages that follow, we introduce you to eleven young men who were drawn to different clubs and activities and derived the same outcomes: developing their talents, exploring their interests, and charting a course for the years that follow.

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The A Team Vincent Christiano III ’18

As a freshman, Vincent wasn’t shy about expressing his interest in joining the Morning Show crew and was invited the very next year – solidifying his desire to speak publicly as part of his career. In May of 2017, a new group was formed to support the athletic program called The A Team, giving students the opportunity to learn all of the behind-the-scenes tasks of an athletic event. An athlete himself, he jumped at the opportunity and is now one of the talented young men who bring us the play-by-play action on Marauder TV. “This is by far the coolest thing I’ve done at St. Joe’s,” said Vincent. Using vMix and the live streaming capabilities of YouTube, the broadcasts are impressive. There is a scoreboard and time clock on screen, and the team is now testing additional ingame features such as highlight footage and intermission reports.

“In the beginning, we faced some challenges with so much new technology,” he continued. “But I’m proud to be one of the individuals who launched the live streaming of our athletic events.”

This year, he is enrolled in Journalism and Public Speaking, and is a contributor to the SJCI Student Prints Newspaper. Vincent plans to attend Canisius College, St. Bonaventure University, or Syracuse University to major in Broadcast Journalism or Media Production.

Stage Crew Benjamin Rinaldo ’18

With a dad in the construction business, Ben wasn’t that surprised to discover his enjoyment of Stage Crew when he joined the group during his sophomore year. He had participated in athletics as a freshman, but it just wasn’t a good fit. After some encouragement from a close friend, he began putting his basic carpentry skills to work alongside the alumni, staff, and student crew team members.

The work requires patience and time management skills given the deadlines they face to build the elaborate sets St. Joe’s is known for.

“I love the physical energy exerted during the process,” described Ben. “And, for me, it is so rewarding when the actors have success on stage utilizing the set we’ve built.”

His work doesn’t end once the show begins. Ben is also part of the “run crew,” rearranging and replacing pieces of the set during the actual show. He also works with the technical crew during larger productions, fueling his love of technology. Ben is planning to study Information Technology and will most likely attend 5 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE

Mercyhurst University or Alfred State College. For now, he’s busy working on the set for The Hunchback of Notre Dame, the St. Joe’s spring musical.

Diversity Club Charles Morrison ’19 Religion and Human Morality. This is the title of the workshop led by Charles Morrison at the Inclusivity Conference at Nichols School, a large gathering of Diversity Clubs from schools throughout Western New York. The students gathered at Nichols for a full day of discussions and workshops in early February, joined by adult leaders from the community. “The goal is to bring together people of different color, creed, or culture,” explained Charles.

“I posed four different questions to my group to hear from people with different ideologies.” His friendly demeanor makes it easy to begin a dialogue.

Charles strives to serve his local community in a meaningful way, and envisions himself as a community leader in the future.

Outside of St. Joe’s, he is a member of Youth Leadership Council, which brings together young minorities to foster and practice leadership skills and find opportunities to make an impact in the diverse neighborhoods of Buffalo.

Mock Trial Robert Gilbert ’18

In November, the Bar Association released this year’s case, and the Mock Trial team has been reading, researching, and writing ever since in preparation for the competition in Buffalo City Court in February.

Alumnus Ryan Mura ’07 spends two hours almost every day of the week mentoring the team, sacrificing an incredible amount of time from his own legal practice. [Ryan was a member of the St. Joe’s team when his father, Roy Mura, was the moderator.] “The experience isn’t just academic; it’s a performance,” explains Robert. “Having to play various roles during the competition, including lawyers and witnesses, I am able to express myself in a different way.”

But it’s the academic side that has Robert hooked. He enjoys the careful attention to every word and is fascinated when he reviews passages only to find he missed something previously. St. Joe’s placed in the top ten the past two years, going up against 24 teams.

This year, working tirelessly on a mock criminal case involving a disorderly student, the team of sophomores and seniors hopes to rank even higher. This will be Robert’s last competition as a Marauder, but he is excited to study law and politics in the fall.

Faith Service Community Thomas Dunia ’18 Thomas was born in the Congo, and his early years were spent living on a farm and in refugee camps in various parts of Africa. It was 2005 before his family moved to the United States, and 2009 when they made their home in Buffalo.

As a freshman, Thomas participated in soccer but didn’t get involved in other activities – not finding “his place” during that first year. He was introduced to Faith Service Community (FSC) during his sophomore year and eagerly joined. The lively discussions in FSC meetings center around poverty – why it still exists, how we can help, and more. These conversations gave Thomas the platform to accept and own his family’s background while discovering that he too can lead and serve those less fortunate than himself.

His first service trip was to Camden, NJ, and he was surprised his friends had not seen this level of urban poverty before, even though it exists in our own backyard. But his next trip to a rural area in West Virginia moved him the most, reminding him of his homeland and the comfort some residents have living very simply.

Today, Thomas is president of the National Honor Society, a member of the Varsity Soccer team, a musician in Swing Choir, and works with other students implementing an international microloan program started by SJCI alumni in 2012. He plans to study International Relations or Conflict Relations, and is considering Canisius College, Fordham University, and others. But we have no doubt Thomas will continue to uncover opportunities to serve and to lead, driving positive change in his community.

Dungeons & Dragons Club James Ferrantini ’19

If you were a teen in the late 70’s and 80’s, chances are you played or knew someone who played Dungeons & Dragons, affectionately called D&D. For James Ferrantini, the role-playing game piqued his interest during elementary school, born out of a love of reading fantasy books. As a freshman, he approached one of his teachers to launch a D&D club, and now every Wednesday between 15 and 25 students from all grades gather to play. “There was a need for more clubs where students could express their creative side,” said James.

“D&D involves drawing, improvisation, story-telling, strategic planning, and more – so it appeals to many different types of students.”

A three-season runner at St. Joe’s, he enjoys the opportunity to solve problems and strategize on the spot. Not unlike most teens, he enjoys video games and knows everyone benefits from the face-to-face gaming situation the club provides. While the online version of the game is thriving, the St. Joe’s D&D club is still paper-based.

Jazz Lab Band Thomas Schweiger ’18

As a young boy, Thomas remembers heading out to his grandfather’s porch at midnight on New Year’s Eve as his musical family played marches to ring in each new year.

His grandfather was a trumpetplaying member and senior officer of the Purdue University Marching Band, and his father also played the trumpet throughout high school.

In third grade, Thomas picked up the same instrument and began his studies.

Today, he is a four-year member of the Jazz Lab Band and the Concert Band. He credits recently retired Instrumental Teacher Mr. Owens for fueling his love of jazz, and proudly admits to listening to lots of music from the 1940’s. “The trumpet gives me such an amazing opportunity to express myself,” Thomas explains. “And the jazz band has traveled to so many different places to perform – including my favorite destination of New York City.” This spring, the group will travel to Toronto, playing for other schools along the way and taking in a performance of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Thomas has applied to Purdue, but has not decided yet. He will study Chemical Engineering or Biochemistry next year. In the meantime, you will find Thomas’s grandfather in the audience at the next concert.

Michael Israel Book Club Vikram Singh ’18 It didn’t take long for Vikram to grab his first paperback for Book Club once he joined sophomore year. His English teacher was the moderator, and Vikram enjoyed the discussions in class. Now in his senior year, Vikram trusts Mr. Hoerner completely to choose each book, and the club is structured so the amount of reading is manageable – never turning into another unwelcome task on his long “to-do” list. “Jurassic Park was one of my favorites thus far,” explained Vikram. “We explored ethics in business during our lengthy discussions and realized the book is actually very dark.” The group of typically ten to fifteen students often discovers statements about society among the pages, providing lots of fodder for their meetings.

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A member of Math Team and Science Olympiad, Vikram also makes time for Mr. Hoerner’s Film Club. The group benefits from Hoerner’s love of film – from old movies to the obscure. Vikram credits Mr. Hoerner for expanding his interest in and knowledge of both books and film, and remembers fondly a 45-minute conversation about Star Wars during a recent free period. Vikram is planning to study Behavioral Neuroscience or Biomedical Engineering in the fall.

Patrick spends lots of his time mastering the engineering and building activities such as hovercraft, mousetrap car, and “Write It Do It.” For others, there are activities in chemistry, biology, forensics, and more. Now in his junior year, Patrick has found that the activity has had unintentional benefits for his studies. “I am enrolled in Introduction to Engineering right now,” said Patrick.

“Science Olympiad provides so many more opportunities to apply what I am learning in class to real projects and challenges.”

Ski Club

Masterminds

Nathan Kohler ’18

Callan Izatt ’19

It was third grade when Nathan excitedly strapped on his first skis, and his love for the slopes has only grown deeper over the years. As a graduate of St. John the Baptist School in Kenmore, he was invited to remain a member of the middle school club during his freshman year, so it was tenth grade when Nathan climbed aboard his first St. Joe’s bus headed for Holiday Valley.

“Ski Club is such a low stress and low pressure activity, giving all of us a welcome respite on a Friday afternoon following a week of studies and other commitments,” explained Nathan. “And any skier knows this makes a long Buffalo winter much more bearable.”

Nathan suffered a serious health issue during his sophomore year, resulting in a craniotomy – a surgical opening into his skull. He made a full recovery and was relieved when doctors cleared him to ski again, as long as he follows necessary precautions including wearing a helmet. He also loves playing the guitar and singing, and is a member of Varsity Singers. Nathan plans to study Analytical Chemistry at Canisius College in the fall.

Science Olympiad Patrick Murphy ’19

Patrick was always partial to the math-based sciences in middle school, and St. Joe’s was the perfect choice to advance his studies. As a sophomore, he learned about the Science Olympiad team and jumped at the chance to join. The team receives a list of events and rules in November, then spends the next few months preparing for the regional competition. There are 25 events in total, and emphasis is placed on active, hands-on participation.

During the months leading up to the tournament, students can be found after school all around the science wing – from classrooms to hallways to the Commons – collaborating with faculty and mentors while perfecting their skills.

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Callan is the first to admit he has a “head full of random stuff.” What to do with all of these facts and tidbits? Welcome to Masterminds.

Callan joined the team as a freshman, and found a competitive opportunity that utilized all of the trivia and facts he has a knack for remembering. “I grew up playing strange, smart-people games in my family,” Callan says with a smile. “So the fast-paced, competitive format of Masterminds is the perfect way for me to represent St. Joe’s – often with a victory.” Two teams face off in the quiz competition to answer the most questions during two halves of a match. Each player has a buzzer, and all of the questions are open-ended. There are no multiple choice questions.

St. Joe’s has a Varsity and JV team, and the meets happen once a month. Callan’s JV team was undefeated last year, and, at the time the magazine went to press, the team had only one loss this year at the varsity level. Callan enjoys the timed aspect of the game, and has the most success with the history and science questions.

His skills also translate to success on the Model UN and Science Olympiad teams. And on Fridays, he jumps on the Ski Club bus – an enjoyable break from his exhilarating and competitive academic activities that take place the rest of the week.

HONORED FOR ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENT Congratulations to the 2017 Inductees into the St. Joe’s Sports Hall of Fame. Nominated by their peers, these individuals and teams were honored in a ceremony in November.

Lawrence M. O'Connor ’49 was a force for St. Joe’s basketball and baseball, and was an All-Catholic selection for the Manhattan Cup champions in 1949. Eventually he was drafted to play in the NBA by the New York Knicks. Larry became a role model for many at St. Joe’s and throughout the community as a legendary women’s softball and basketball coach.

John D. Gibney ’74 earned honors as a member of the football, crew, and track teams. As a lineman on the St. Joe’s football team, John earned the most acclaim. He was named First Team All-Catholic in both junior and senior years and Second Team All-WNY his senior year. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1978 and was then signed by the New York Jets.

Kevin J. Brinkworth ’59 was a three-year varsity player in football.

He played on four undefeated football teams, three of which were championship winners and SJCI Hall of Fame Inductees (1956-1958). Named First Team All-Catholic, Kevin also earned First Team All-WNY, All-Catholic and All-American honors. He was later drafted by the Buffalo Bills.

John J. Quinn ’74 was a powerful presence in St. Joe’s football, was named First Team All-Catholic in junior and senior years, and was a First Team All-WNY as a senior. His basketball career at St. Joe’s placed him on the 1973 and 1974 Manhattan Cup championship teams. He was also a part of the track and field squad that set a team record of 77 points at the All-Catholics Championships.

The 1972-73 Varsity Basketball Team finished with a 13-3 overall record and the 1973 Manhattan Cup Championship. The squad had a high-powered offense, winning by an average of 17 points with a season-high performance of 98 points against Bishop Fallon. Led by head coach Richard Bihr, the team was also cochampion of the Burke League and was credited with being one of the best teams in New York State.

The 2008-09 and 2009-10 Varsity Bowling Team is, to date, the most accomplished bowling squad in the program’s history at St. Joe’s. The team won the Monsignor Martin Championship both years and averaged an astounding 1,002 (2009) and 986 (2010) in those two years. The Marauders, led by head coach Al Simmons, fared well against the best bowlers statewide.

left to right: Peter Hogan ’73, John Dougherty ’73, Coach Dick Bihr, John Quinn ’74, Michael Metz ’73, Laura Rodgers (widow of George Rodgers ’74), John Hartman ’74, Mark Spitler ’74, David Hartrich ’73, Jack Murrett ’73, Michael Naples ’74

left to right: Coach Al Simmons, Stephano Cirrito ’11, Francis Lagona Jr. ’10, Dean Koscielny ’11, Drew Fittry ’10, Evan DePaolo ’11, Anthony Garofalo ’11, Chris Loguidice ’11, Michael Shaw ’09, Philip Tabbi ’09

MAKING AN ATHLETIC IMPACT In late November, a new partnership was formed between the St. Joe’s athletic department and IMPACT Sports Performance of Buffalo, bringing the best educational and competitive training program in the region to our campus. Jason Jerome, the Director of Athletic Development for IMPACT, has a proven track record of success with high-level collegiate programs and focuses on strengthening the student-athletes in a safe environment that ultimately reduces injuries.

Varsity Wrestling Coach Pete Kennedy ’97 describes the outcomes he has witnessed already this season. “The responsibility of leading the right strength and conditioning program for our team was removed from the coaching staff, so we immediately had more time to work on wrestling skills with our athletes in both small groups and individually,” explained Coach Kennedy. “Jason is tough on our young men, but our boys became both faster and stronger each week, translating into more confident, successful wrestlers on the mat.”

IMPACT’s training facility is located in HARBORCENTER, but Jason is able to conduct his daily training programs in the St. Joe’s fitness center, which houses collegiate-level strength and conditioning equipment.

“Jason and his team have a genuine interest in the health of our students,” said St. Joe’s Athletic Director Brian Anken. “It was important to us that we prepare our young men for a high intensity level of play while keeping them safe.”

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT A MINISTRY OF MUSIC None of these men realized he would still 5 p.m. Sunday Mass at St. Michael Church be here decades later, creating that “St. Joe’s in Buffalo. “We all have a lot of things that sound.” we’re involved in, and we’re pulled in a lot of different directions, but when you can make Many in our community are familiar with it, you’re there,” Carocci said. the joy-filled voices, powerful harmonies, and sport coats and tuxedos of the St. Joe’s Why They Sing Again vocal ensembles, including the Varsity Singers, Swing Choir, and Glee Club. Over The gentlemen’s stories differ greatly, but the course of decades, thousands of young all start at the same point: their experience men have spent hours each week rehearsing singing with St. Joe’s as students. For all of for Masses, concerts, funerals, and other the men, their music experiences seemed to events. To this day, the vocal groups of serve as a foundational core of their St. Joe’s St. Joe’s remain a staple of our Lasallian experience, and an important piece of these community. experiences stemmed from the Mass.

But what many do not realize is the commitment to St. Joe’s and to its “ministry of music” lasts far beyond the high school years for a staggering number of alumni. On a regular basis, men return years or even decades after graduation to continue their ministry of music with classmates and fellow alumni spanning generations.

These alumni singers consistently sing throughout the year and continue the mission of the St. Joe’s vocal music program, ministering with their voices.

Carocci joined that group after many years away from St. Joe’s when, in December 2010, he and his family drove down Delaware Avenue and saw a sign outside of St. Paul RC Church in Kenmore advertising a Swing Choir concert. He decided to attend that concert with his family, and to him, that was God’s sign that he needed to get back into singing. Joining the other alumni singers has brought him back into the world of music.

left to right: Christopher Gengo ’85, Mark Rosenecker ’92, James Deiotte, Christopher Carocci ’85, Michael Hooker ’06, Thomas Wilcox ’08, Joseph Thurn ’83

Four such alumni, Joe Thurn ’83, Chris Carocci ’85, Chris Gengo ’85, and Tom Noonan ’88 sat down to discuss the current logistics of the alumni group, their individual stories, and the meaning they draw from continuing to sing.

As Thurn shared, the structure of the “alumni singers” group has ebbed and flowed since the summer of 1990 when the Lasallian Singers, the first official alumni group, was formed. There have been years, like the early 1990s, when the group rehearsed consistently as an ensemble.

Currently, there is not a set rehearsal or performance structure to the group; the alumni come to sing where they’re needed and where they have the opportunity to continue their ministry. Alumni mainly sing at funeral Masses for members of the St. Joe’s community and weekly at the 9 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE

conduct, and that rekindled connection led to the formation of a new group of alumni singers.

Gengo returned to the world of St. Joe’s music after feeling the sense of brotherhood and excitement that his fellow-involved alumni radiated at an event commemorating Deiotte’s 40th year of teaching in December of 2012. He had received consistent invitations to join the group from Carocci, but it wasn’t until he saw all of those alumni together that he, in his own words, realized he “had to be a part of it.”

“One of the things that Jim [Deiotte, former Vocal Music Teacher at St. Joe’s] had instilled in the groups at that time was a sense of community of liturgy,” continued Thurn. “Glee Club was taken to multiple parishes throughout the community, and, at the time when you’re a high school student and you question a lot of different things, it really builds a foundation of faith.” This “foundation of faith” has proven to be a lasting one for all of the gentlemen, each of whom left the school after graduation and remained away for a time, but found St. Joe’s again in his own unique way.

According to Noonan, the interest of his son, Matthew Noonan ’19, in the St. Joe’s music program was the impetus for him to get involved in the alumni group. Today, he enjoys not only the singing, but the camaraderie with his fellow alumni and his rekindled personal connection to St. Joe’s and the music program.

For Thurn, it was taking his young daughter to buy flowers for his deceased mother on Mother’s Day, passing by a statue of Jesus and Mary with her and realizing that he needed to take her to church, where her voice would be heard by a choir member.

This choir member told him to get her voice lessons, which he promptly asked Deiotte to

Just from a brief conversation with these four men, it’s clear they all have a visible commitment to their ministry of music, and they all hold their St. Joe’s experiences in high regard. That commitment is amplified by their selfless actions. Oftentimes, these men take time off of work at a moment’s notice to sing at the funerals of fellow alumni

Like Noonan, Thurn and Carocci have children currently involved in the music program, and Gengo has a son in eighth grade who will be attending St. Joe’s in the fall.

they have never met, and they have all given up many Sunday afternoons to rehearse and sing at Masses for a community other than their own, passing by many closer churches on their drive downtown.

The Sound of St. Joe’s “Music was and still is a big part of St. Joe’s,” Noonan said. “To be part of that sound again is just really special.” He went on to tell the story of a fellow alumnus, Louis Cannata ’86, who was President of Student Council, Varsity Football Captain, and also in Glee Club, Swing Choir, and the lead in the musical Grease during Noonan’s sophomore year. According to Noonan, young men like that, involved in the music program, athletics, clubs, and academics, were not a rarity in those days and St. Joe’s remains that way today.

“I thought when I was done with St. Joe’s, I was never going to have this kind of

experience again … singing at Mass with people who really knew what they were doing and really were part of that ministry,” Gengo said. He remembers the first time he sang with his fellow alumni. “I was on top of the world, it was amazing. And I still feel that way; I’m so grateful,” he shared.

people who might be twenty or thirty years apart in age. “Years after graduation, that groundwork is still present,” Hooker said.

“It’s bigger than any individual.”

All of the men collectively agreed that what they have is something special, and there is more to come for the group. Getting more “For me, the whole thing’s consistency and alumni involved is the key. And, as Carocci family,” said Thurn. “These guys are like my put it, “the Spirit will lead us there.” brothers and my daughter [Cassandra, a current Swing Choir member] is now part The men want to let Christmas Eve Mass of the family.” participants, recent graduates, and all other interested alumni know that, as Carocci Michael Hooker ’06, alum and current Vocal stated, “If you have the availability and Music Teacher, echoed the statements of the desire to participate, even if you come once other men. He believes there is a connection a month or twice a year ... you’re always between alumni of all generations who welcome.” participated in the St. Joe’s music program that is rooted deeper than just age.

If you are an alumnus of the St. Joe’s vocal music program and are interested in Together, the group suggested the reconnecting and singing with other alumni, commonality of experience makes it possible email Michael Hooker ’06 at mhooker@sjci.com for tight friendships to form between for information.

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE ARTS In December, we inducted our newest members into the St. Joe’s Fine Arts Wall of Honor. These amazing alumni were introduced to the full house at Rockwell Hall, Buffalo State prior to the annual Winter Concert. Congratulations again to these talented alumni!

Artie Kwitchoff ’84 began his career managing Buffalo band Goo Goo Dolls and established Funtime Presents, an independent concert promotion company still bringing incredible shows to WNY. Together with SJCI grad Donny Kutzbach ’92, Artie opened and operates the Town Ballroom, Buffalo’s premier live music room, a cornerstone of the theater district.

Zachary Cain ’98 works in the advertising industry, specializing in motion graphics animation, design, and illustration. He has been recognized on both local and national levels, and his web videos have amassed millions of views. He is also known for his abstract/surreal/psychedelic art pieces which have been shown in publications and gallery shows both locally and internationally.

Christopher Markus ’87 is a successful Emmy and Writers Guild award-winning screenwriter in Hollywood. With his writing partner, Stephen McFeely, he is co-writer of The Life and Death of Peter Sellers, You Kill Me, Pain and Gain, The Chronicles of Narnia trilogy, Marvel’s Captain America trilogy, and the two-part Avengers: Infinity War.

JJ Wright ’03 is a trained jazz improviser with a passion for sacred music and is currently the Director of the Notre Dame Folk Choir.

As a member of the U.S. Naval Academy Band, Wright performed for high-ranking government and military leaders as well as the President. While performing on a paired album between Caribbean Jazz Project and Afro Bop Alliance, the group won the Latin Grammy for “Best Latin Jazz Album.”

left to right: Markus ’87, Cain ’98, Kwitchoff ’84, and Wright ’03 WINTER 2018 • 10

Saturday, April 21 Buffalo Convention Center

5:30 p.m. Reception & Silent Auction 8:00 p.m. Dinner & Live Auction JOIN US FOR THIS SPECIAL NIGHT, AND TOGETHER WE CAN PLAY A ROLE IN SUSTAINING OUR LASALLIAN MISSION AND HONORING MR. SCOTT’S LEGACY.

Chaircouple Dave ’81 & Mary Pietrowski For more information about sponsoring the event, supporting the auction, and purchasing your tickets visit sjci.com/lasallian2018

UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS The Annual Father/Son – Man of the Year Mass and Breakfast Sunday, March 25, 2018 at 10:30 a.m.

Hogan Gymnasium at St. Joe’s

Class of 1968 Golden Jubilee 50th Reunion Events: Golden Jubilee Dinner & Ceremony Thursday, May 17, 2018 Kleinhans Music Hall

Golden Jubilee Mass and Breakfast Friday, May 18, 2018 St. Joe’s

More information available at sjci.com/goldenjubilee.

Alumni Weekend Events: Annual All-Alumni Golf Outing Friday, June 22, 2018 Links at Ivy Ridge, Akron

All-Alumni Family Mass Saturday, June 23, 2018 St. Joe’s

More information available at sjci.com/alumni.

Class Reunions Saturday, June 23, 2018 Class Years 1958, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, and 2013

Just a few alumni receptions remain on the Great American Mr. Scott Tour.

Visit sjci.com/americantour.

11 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE

SIGNUM FIDEI: CLASS OF 2018 Each year, St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute honors alumni for distinguished achievements in their career, community involvement, and exemplification of the values of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. Induction into the Signum Fidei Society is St. Joe’s lifetime achievement award and the highest accolade bestowed by the school. Congratulations to the 2018 Inductees, honored at a ceremony on March 3.

Thomas E. Andruschat ’59 has practiced law for 44 years and served as Town Judge and Village Attorney in East Aurora, where he has been active throughout the community and in his parish, Immaculate Conception. He received the Al Felmet Achievement Award and served on the Board of Directors for the United Cerebral Palsy Association of WNY. As a testament to the respect and admiration his classmates have for Tom, the St. Joe’s Class of ’59 scholarship fund is named in his honor. He was also inducted into the St. Joe’s Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the 1956 to 1959 Varsity Football Teams.

James M. Denzak ’80 currently serves as the Cloud and Cognitive Solutions Sales Leader at IBM. During his 25 years at IBM, he has held positions in business development, sales, marketing, and services delivery. He served as a member of the Board of Trustees and Chairman of the Technology Committee at St. Joe’s. In this role, he was instrumental in improving the school’s computer networking infrastructure. He is active in the community including positions with the American Red Cross and the St. Louis Church capital campaign.

Thomas E. Andruschat ’59

James M. Denzak ’80

Alan C. Dye ’93

Alan C. Dye ’93 is Apple’s vice president of User Interface Design. Alan joined Apple in 2006 as Creative Director with the Marketing Communications team, following previous design lead roles at Kate Spade and Ogilvy & Mather. Before joining the User Interface team, Alan led global design efforts across all aspects of communications, from identity and packaging through retail and interactive experiences.

Matthew J. Hellerer ’75 has been a science teacher and coach at St. Joe’s since 1984.

He has been recognized as a Lasallian Educator of the Year and the WNY Chemistry Teacher of the Year. He coached Cross Country for ten years and Track & Field for 26 years, including nine straight undefeated seasons. He is in both the St. Joe’s Sports Hall of Fame and the WNY Running Hall of Fame. Matt is known for his dedication to our school community and his legendary performances at the St. Joe’s Open House.

Dr. James W. Kosnik ’67 has been a faculty member at Old Dominion University for 36 years. He served as Chairman of the Music Department for two terms and was designated a University Professor in 2009. He received the Most Inspiring Faculty Award and the Robert L. Stern Award for Excellence in Teaching. He has recorded six CD’s and performed at the Vatican and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. In 2000, Jim established the Walter and Stella Kosnik Fine Arts Scholarship at St. Joe’s in memory of his parents.

Matthew J. Hellerer ’75

Dr. James W. Kosnik ’67

Ralph J. Salerno ’82 has been the owner of Keller Bros & Miller Inc. since 1988. His printing company has been recognized for service by Kids Escaping Drugs, Police Athletic League of Buffalo, March of Dimes, Ronald McDonald House, and Kevin Guest House. Ralph has been inducted into the Kids Escaping Drugs Hall of Fame and has been heavily involved in many other non-profits throughout our community.

To learn more about the Signum Fidei Society and this year’s inductees, or to nominate a candidate for consideration, visit sjci.com/signumfidei.

Questions? Contact Joseph Pernick ’10 at jpernick@sjci.com.

Ralph J. Salerno ’82 WINTER 2018 • 12

1960s

1990s

Patrick J. McGroder ’63 was named 2018 “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers for Personal Injury Litigation. Pat is a shareholder with Gallagher & Kennedy, P.A.

V. Christopher Potenza ’94 was named to the 2017 Upstate New York Rising Stars list of lawyers. He is a Member with Hurwitz and Fine, PC.

1970s

WINTER 2018

ALUMNI NEWS AND NOTES

Dr. Daniel P. Schaefer ’71 was nominated to become President-elect at the 2017 business meeting of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is an ophthalmologist with Atwal Eye Care.

Michael P. Castine ’72 presented the Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Award to Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island and former Secretary of State George Schultz at the Ronald Reagan Library during the fifth annual Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi Valley, California. 1 Michael A. Caligiuri, M.D. ’74 was named President of the City of Hope National Medical Center. He previously served as Director of the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and CEO of the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute in Columbus, Ohio.

David J. Nasca ’75 was honored by Canisius College as its Business Executive of the Year. He is President and CEO at Evans Bank.

Brian Meyer ’77 celebrated his 30th year of teaching communications courses at several local colleges. He is Senior Director of News and Public Affairs at WBFO, the region’s NPR station.

Brendan Finn ’79 received the Liberty Mutual Firemark Award for Heroism and was recognized by the Village Board for his actions in the rescue of a woman and young boy from a house fire. He is a firefighter with the Kenmore Volunteer Fire Department.

Daniel J. Zimmer ’79 was honored by Canisius College with the Bernard L. Martin Award, which recognizes a distinguished alumnus of the college’s graduate business program. He is the Vice President of Corporate Finance and Development at Delaware North Companies, Inc.

Brian J. Kulpa ’96 was named to the Buffalo Business First 40 Under 40. He is a Senior Associate at Clark Patterson Lee architecture, engineering, and planning firm and Supervisor of the Town of Amherst.

William P. Moore ’96 was named to the 2017 New York Super Lawyers, Upstate Edition and the Buffalo Business First 40 Under 40. He is a Senior Partner at Lipsitz Green Scime Cambria LLP. Brian Schmidt ’96 was promoted to Systems Engineer/ Engineering Manager at Northrop Grumman in Buffalo.

Joshua T. Hutter ’97 was named to the Buffalo Business First 40 Under 40. He is a Partner at Western New York Dental Group and Clinical Instructor for the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine.

2000s Daniel P. Greene ’00 was named to the Buffalo Business First 40 Under 40. He is Chief Operating Officer of Formarum Inc. Adam D. DeRose ’02 has published his most recent book, Estelle & Ziggy, a real-life family history beginning in pre-WWII Poland.

Christopher M. Kepner ’02 launched his own literacy agency, The Kepner Agency.

David M. Leggio ’02 was named to the US Olympic Hockey Team. He is a professional goaltender who is currently playing for EHC München in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL).

1980s

Richard M. Scherer, Jr. ’03, an Associate with Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, was selected to the 2017 Upstate New York Rising Stars list. He has also been appointed to the Delaware Soccer Club Board of Directors for a three-year term.

Paul F. Wells ’81 was named to the 2017 New York Super Lawyers, Upstate Edition. He is a Partner with Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP and serves as the firm’s Real Estate Practice Group Leader.

James R. Schaefer ’06 received the Financial Planning ChFC® designation through the American College.

He is a Financial Representative with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network.

Robert L. Boreanaz ’82 was named to the 2017 New York Super Lawyers, Upstate Edition. He is a Senior Partner with Lipsitz Green Scime Cambria LLP.

Taylor Golba ’08 and Charles J. Cook ’09 were admitted to the Bar of the State of New York by the Appellate Division Fourth Judicial Department.

Mr. John J. Conway ’83 joined Manufacturing Works team at EWI.

Griffin G. Jankowski ’09 was hired by Dansa & D’Arata LLP as Supervising Senior Accountant in the organization’s tax department.

the

Buffalo

Mr. Paul G. Scolese ’85 was promoted to Vice President of Government Affairs at Cox Enterprises.

David C. Greenman ’89 joined Niagara University as Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement.

13 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE

Brian D. Barrett, Ph.D. ’96 has been promoted to full professor at SUNY Cortland.

Alumni News and Notes is a compilation of information reported to St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute. We are not responsible for its accuracy or content.

1

2010s Kevin R. Brick ’10 (left), Bryan P. Kroetsch ’10 (middle), and Justin D. Jones ’10 were admitted to the Bar of the State of New York by the Appellate Division Fourth Judicial Department. Classmate Michael J. Duggan ’10 (right) was in attendance, supporting his sister, who was admitted as well. 2 Stephen J. Grimm ’10 was promoted to Director of Marketing at MJ Peterson Real Estate.

Joseph D. Pernick ’10 was named the Alumni Engagement and Development Officer at St. Joe’s.

Madison S. Trammell ’11 confirmed his professional commitment to become a Doctor of Audiology at the White Coat Ceremony at A.T. Still University, Missouri. 3 Jaylen P. Morris ’13 was drafted in the NBA G League Draft on October 21, 2017 and is now playing for the Erie Bayhawks 2017-18 basketball team.

In Memoriam Robert F. Andrle, PhD ’45 Mark A. Boorady ’75 Fred A. Buscaglia ’50 Cornelius F. Collins ’55 Thomas J. Comer Jr. ’81 Edwin G. Egan Robert Farrington ’52 Dr. Robert C. Gartler ’42 James A. Harla ’59 Rev. Msgr. Paul R. Juenker ’38 Thomas R. Kiener ’83 Carol A. Leberer Patricia R. Leberer Roger G. Leous Robert Luparello ’85 Br. Edward Martin, FSC

Patrick J. McDonnell ’75 Christopher M. McKee ’98 Paul Nigro Ronald J. Orlowski Shirley A. O’Brien Frank E. O’Connor ’41 Dr. Wayne M. O’Sullivan Joseph M. Palka Peter P. Poth ’46 George C. Rodgers ’74 Joseph Scaffidi D. Corinne Shepherd John Shepherd Jr. ’43 Theodore Snell ’68 Ronald Szvoren ’70

3

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4

Births Brian Schmitt ’96 and his wife Katie welcomed their daughter Kaitlyn on February 9, 2017. Kaitlyn has 2 big brothers (and prospective SJCI students) Patrick and Brennan. 4 Jeffrey T. Bagley ’01 and his wife Jenny welcomed their daughter Maizy Laine Bagley on November 17, 2017.

Charles A. Panepinto ’01 and his wife Carly welcomed their son Charles James Panepinto on November 20, 2017.

Joseph P. Fahey ’10 and his wife Anne welcomed daughter Madison Grace Fahey on December 24, 2017.

Marriages and Engagements

5

Daniel P. Greene ’00 was engaged to Ashley Rowe on December 2, 2017.

Michael J. Herberger ’03 married Rachel Lauria on November 10, 2017. 5 Dr. Ian C. Leberer ’06 married Jamie Griebner, Esq. on December 30, 2017.

Joseph DiLeo ’10 married Sara Anne Privitera on September 16, 2017. 6

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WINTER 2018 • 14

ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE A Community

of

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PA I D

E x ce l l e n ce

845 Kenmore Avenue Buffalo, NY 14223-3195

BUFFALO, NY PERMIT NO. 83

Address Service Requested

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR FUTURE MARAUDERS: 7th Grade Practice Exam:

Collegiate Summer:

St. Joe’s Sports Camps

Saturday, May 5 8:30 a.m. to noon Take the Scholarship & Entrance Exam under normal testing conditions at no cost.

June 25 – July 20 Popular 4-week program for boys between their 7th and 8th grade year.

Choose from 8 different sports led by our experienced coaches.

Ages vary by sport.

Information for all of these events can be found online at sjci.com/admissions

15 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE