G R E A T E R
C I N C I N N A T I ’ S
J E S U I T
H I G H
S C H O O L Summer 2021
MEET THE NEW PRINCIPAL
Welcome Dan Lynch Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
1
From the President I am tempted to make this article only three words:
We Made It! But certainly, I need to add at least one more word: gratitude. The support, patience, and perseverance both as individuals and together as a community have made all the difference. One of the biggest burdens of the pandemic has been uncertainty in knowing what each day would bring. Would we be in person? Would an event be canceled? Would we need to quarantine? The students, parents, faculty, staff, administration and the Long (and Wide!) Blue Line redefined collaboration making it certain that our students had a very successful school year. Throughout the challenges of the year, your prayers, support, and presence were never missing. Thank you. I also want to extend my gratitude to three other groups. First, our Board of Trustees and especially our Board Chair, Mr. Gary Gruber. As you can imagine, this year had more special meetings and complex decisions to make than is typical for our Board of Trustees. By my count there were more than 50 meetings throughout the school year. Second, the COVID Task Force who started meeting in April of 2020 and often met three times a week over the summer, and they continued meeting all year to monitor the policies and procedures at school related to COVID protocol. Third, the Principal Search Committee who willingly added to their already full lives with three months of meetings to find the best new academic leader for our school. The complexities of navigating the challenges and opportunities of the past year were made more successful because of the collective wisdom of these groups. As we send the Class of 2021 out into the world, they are certainly ready to make an impact. They have already navigated more than should be expected of a high school student. They have made significant contributions to the world with thousands of hours of community service, academic success, arts and athletic accomplishments, and more. The Senior Class Gift to St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
Tim Reilly ’76
St. Xavier High School was presented to me at graduation. This year the Class of 2021 showed how keenly aware they are of the importance of giving back with their participation of 85% in a gift of $9,140. If their past four years are any indication, this class is ready to go and change the world for the better. Our future at St. Xavier High School is bright as we look toward both new leadership with Mr. Dan Lynch who began his service as principal of St. X this summer and our new strategic plan which will be ready to launch this Fall. That plan “St. X 200” will guide us in fulfilling our mission as we approach the 200th anniversary of our founding in 1831. You will read more about Dan Lynch in this issue and the new strategic plan in future publications.
You will see in the following pages the details of how we as a school not just survived by thrived. You will see in the following pages the details of how we as a school not just survived by thrived. For me, at least, it is typically easy to be proud of my association with St. X. I hope as you reflect on the year at St. X, especially in contrast to most other schools in the country, you take some satisfaction and pride that your contributions of time, talent and treasure have made a significantly positive impact in the lives of our 1,394 students, our faculty and staff, and all of our families. Of course, we will not know the true fruit of their labors until these young men are the ones leading our communities, country, world, and church, but I am convinced you can look forward with optimism. This coming year holds even more promise. AMDG,
Tim Reilly ’76
ADMINISTRATION Mr. Timothy J. Reilly ’76, President Rev. Walter C. Deye SJ ’66, Rector Mr. Daniel J. Lynch, Principal Mr. Jonathan C. Ivec, Vice President for Operations & CFO Mr. Anthony E. Schad ’81, Vice President of Advancement
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mr. Gregory G. Achten ’82 - Co-Vice Chair Mr. Robert E. Carroll ’76 Mr. Michael E. Dahm Rev. Walter C. Deye, SJ ’66 - Co-Vice Chair Mr. Michael J. Ehrensberger ’61 Mr. Brian J. Fitzgerald ’91 Sr. Therese Gillman, OSF Dr. Colleen M. Hanycz Mrs. Toi C. Jones Mr. Adam T. Mueller ’96 Rev. William J. Murphy, SJ Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ Mr. Vivek Ramaswamy ’03 Mr. Andrew N. Recker ’97 Mr. Timothy J. Reilly ’76 Mrs. Mabe Rodriguez Steigerwald Mr. Mark M. Ryan ’91 Mr. Timothy J. Steigerwald ’83 Mrs. Linnell R. Sullivan Rev. Eric M. Sundrup, SJ Mr. Nicholas J. Vehr ’77 - Chair Rev. Nathan C. Wendt, SJ
Inside this Issue
8 Year in Review
12 Meet Dan Lynch
14 Graduation Spotlight
Student accomplishments through a trying year.
St. Xavier High School’s New Principal
Welcome to the Long Blue Line Class of 2021
CONTRIBUTORS Cheryl L. Asper Rev. Terrence A. Baum, SJ Edward J. Bedinghaus ’68 Jody A. Besse Joyce A. Bowman Cathy M. Cionni David V. Clapp Christine L. Dauenhauer Heidi B. Eveleigh Edmund L. Franchi Nathan E. Gabriel Eric M. Gammarino ’09 Ellen K. Gormley Elizabeth A. Harris Cara L. Hester W. Matthew Keith ’93 Nicholas B. Kemper ’06 J K Klaiber Michael H. Marchal Kurt J. Meier ’63 Ralph A. Nardini ’77 Heidi A. O’Connor William C. Reilly ’09 Brian S. Reinhart Anthony E. Schad ’81 Angelo J. Sylvester Andrew E. Sweeny ’68 Isaac M. Watras
EDITOR Becky Schulte
DESIGNER Jon Enia ’97, makercreative.com
COVER: President Tim Reilly ’76 welcomes new principal Dan Lynch.
PRINTING
Above Photo: The graduating Classes of 1970 and 1971 welcomed the Class of 2021 to the
Joseph Berning Printing Company St. Xavier Magazine is published three times a year by the alumni, advancement and communications offices. St. Xavier High School 600 W. North Bend Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45224-1499 Phone: (513) 761-7815 ext. 121 http://www.stxavier.org e-mail: bschulte@stxavier.org
Long Blue Line during the commencement exercises this year.
ALUMNI HOT LINE 1-800-572-5340 ext. 155 Direct all Letters to the Editor, address changes, or other correspondence to the above address. Postmaster: Send address corrections to: St. Xavier Magazine, 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, OH 45224-1499.
02 WE ARE ST. XAVIER
19 VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
07 THE CANNONBALL JUBILEE
20 CAREER CONNEXIONS
16 EXCERPTS FROM THE ARCHIVES
21 ALUMNI X-CERPTS & X-PEDITIONS
18 ALUMNI REFLECTION
25 CALENDAR Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
1
We are St. Xavier News and notes around the St. Xavier campus
First Ever Freshman Emmaus Retreat for the Class of 2024 The first ever annual Freshman Emmaus Retreat themed “Come As You Are … Leave Together” was a smashing success! The Class of 2024 enjoyed a contemplative experience with upperclass leaders and bonded with their fellow classmates.
Military Signing Day Congratulations to our graduating seniors who have either accepted an appointment to a U. S. Service Academy or who have received an R.O.T.C. national Scholarship.
Gio Albanese - U.S. Air Force Academy Andrew Collins - R.O.T.C. @ University of Dayton Matthew Devine - U.S. Air Force Academy Adam Klus - R.O.T.C. @ Wright State University Ian Meier - U.S. Military Academy at West Point Michael Whitehouse - U.S. Naval Academy
2
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
Career ConneXions hosts
Cincinnati Zoo Director Thayne Maynard Career ConneXions hosted Cincinnati Zoo Director, Thayne Maynard, in an interactive discussion about careers. In between demonstrations of animal behavioral science in action, Mr. Maynard spoke about key careers that helped save and protect the habitats of bald eagles, manatees, lions and more. Mr. Maynard explained the role of various types of engineers who support the zoo in addition to the animal care teams. During the pandemic, with a dramatic loss of attendance and income, the expense of caring for animals and habitats remains constant. Civil and environmental engineers have played an integral role in keeping operating costs streamlined. Learn more about Career ConneXions at https://www.stxavier.org/academics/careerconnexions
Walk4X On April 23, Bombers were spotted all over town for Walk4X! The annual walk was moved from the fall to spring because of COVID concerns and it also became a virtual event. Students were encouraged to choose walking, fitness, volunteer, or service activities to show their support for the financial aid fundraiser. A list of trails and parks was provided to inspire students to get moving outdoors. While many activities were canceled due to COVID the St. Xavier community was pleased to adapt the event to ensure its success!
I Beg to Differ!
Parents Across Cultures (PAC) hosted a political panel event on February 4 in the theater, “I Beg to Differ! Respectful Dialogue, Citizenship and Action When We Disagree” The discussion was in response to the recent events and toxic rhetoric in our country when people have differing opinions. The event was emceed by Teddy Ford ’21 and moderated by Jack Nicley ’22 and Joe Feldkamp ’23. Panelists included Mayor John Cranley ’92, Rep. Brad Wenstrup ’76, Ohio Supreme Court Justices Pat DeWine and Pat Fischer ’76, Judge Dwane Mallory ’75, Former State Senator Eric Kearney ’81, City Councilwomen Jan-Michele Kearney and Betsy Sundermann, Chair of the Hamilton County Republican Party Alex Triantafilou, and Prosecutor Joe Deters ’75. The conversations centered around how to listen, work with those in opposing parties and state your views respectfully and more.
Happy Birthday Robert “Bob” Doolan ’35 Over his 104 years, Robert “Bob” Doolan ’35 has generously served our country and shared his story with St. Xavier students. On March 21, In honor of his 104th birthday, the Marching Bombers and several faculty, staff, family, and friends attended a surprise parade to commemorate his birthday. Fourteen years ago, around his 90th birthday, Mr. Doolan spoke to students sharing his harrowing experience as a POW during WWII. After his B-17 bomber was shot down he traded his St. Xavier class ring for provisions knowing that the English language on his ring would identify him as an American and place him in further danger. During his visit to St. Xavier, he was given a replica of his class ring which he wears to this day around his neck on a chain. This year, the Marching Bombers, along with nearly 100 cars of well-wishers surprised Mr. Doolan with a parade to celebrate the occasion of his 104th birthday. The event was covered by local media and Mr. Doolan said, “I think it’s great. I’d like to see 105 next year,” Doolan said. “It was unbelievable. I’m not worth all that.”
Welcome to the Class of 2025 St. Xavier High School is thrilled to welcome the Class of 2025 to campus in August. The class is diverse in a variety of ways and will bring all their gifts and talents to share with others. The 371-member class is comprised of young men from five states, 38 school districts and 67 zip codes. They come from 89 different schools including 51 private schools, 36 public schools and two other school settings. The class is 20 percent multicultural and 73 percent of them are Catholic while 27 percent of them celebrate nine other types of religion. Welcome to the Long Blue Line, Class of 2025! Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
3
Student Athlete Signing Days Congratulations to our senior student athletes who participated in the winter and spring signing days.
Illuminations Wows Theatre Xavier lit up the greys of January with something brilliant– their annual lighting design competition Illuminations! This is the opportunity for students to work with a professional sized lighting rig and create their own lighting shows set to music. They show off their creativity and have loads of fun doing it!
Winter Signing Day Jacob Cooper – Transylvania University – Tennis Luke Dittus – Ohio Northern University – Lacrosse Matt Doerger – Wittenberg University – Soccer Danny Kirk – Centre College – Football Vincent Knott – Northern Kentucky University – Tennis Nicholas Langenderfer – Wittenberg University – Lacrosse Nolan Schuermann – College of the Holy Cross – Golf Charles Temming – Xavier University – Tennis Gavin Vogelgesang – Thomas More University – Baseball Nate Vota – Washington U – Soccer Michael Whitehouse – Naval Academy – Football Cooper Williams – University of Maine – Swimming
Spring Signing Day Miles Blenman – High Point University – Lacrosse Ben Carmosino - Mount St. Joseph University – Volleyball Josh Foy – Thomas More University – Rugby Kristopher McClure – Mount St. Joseph University –Basketball Nick Stachler – University of Detroit Mercy – Golf Lawrence White – Chicago State University – Soccer (not pictured)
Thank you Principal Tyrrell After eight years of service to St. Xavier High School Principal Terry Tyrrell has moved on to become Catholic Central High School’s (in Grand Rapids, MI) first school president. Mr. Tyrrell transitioned into his new role at Catholic Central on July 1.
4
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
Capitol Hill Comes to St. Xavier After months of preparation and study, students presented their ideas on societal issues to members of the House of Representatives. Being Committed to Justice is an Ignatian Value and the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice allows students to study the issues that face our society. https://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj/ In years past, St. Xavier students have completed research on relevant social issues and presented their requests for change to local Congressmen in an event that culminates at the Nation’s Capital. Students attended a virtual conference last October then continued to research their issue of concern through the winter. In March, they participated in a national advocacy effort that included Jesuit schools from across the country advocating for a better world. This year, due to COVID restrictions, the students invited elected officials to Campus. Members of Senator Rob Portman’s staff were also available to
students via virtual meeting. Thank you to Representative Brad Wenstrup ’76, Representative Steve Chabot and Senator Rob Portman for participating. Freshman Carter Enslein said, “The meetings with the representatives were a great opportunity to practice public speaking and presentation skills. Being the only freshman in IFTJ this year, I felt a bit unprepared, but it ended up being a lot of fun as well as a great learning experience!” Senior Aidan Finn said, “I found the advocacy experience to be incredibly valuable in exposing me more to the political process and the importance of constituents advocating for policies they believe in.” The 2021 Conference will be held in-person in November 6-8, 2021 in Washington, DC.
The Root of the Matter: Students Explore Aquaponics
Taste of Diversity Brings Food and Culture to Campus
On Thursday, March 18, members of Aquaponics Club and Environmental Action Club went on a joint-field trip to Roothouse Aquaponics–founded and owned by St. X alum Mike McGraw ’08.
On Saturday, April 17 the Parents Across Cultures (PAC) hosted a vibrant Taste of Diversity celebration of cultures. The annual event includes table presentations by students including cultural highlights of authentic clothing, music, crafts and products from around the world. In years past, students were encouraged to create cuisine to share that reflected the flavors of their country of research. On this 11th year, food trucks with a variety of entrees and snacks from around the globe were invited to feed the hundreds of guests and participants.
Not only do they produce amazing-tasting products, but Roothouse is “rooted in responsibility”–utilizing sustainable practices such as harvesting rainwater, relying on natural sunlight, and not using any pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers.
Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
5
Live Theater Returns Theatre Xavier returned to live performances to live audiences with their interpretation of the musical, 1776. The dramatic re-telling of the drafting and passing of the Declaration of Independence was performed with a collaboration of over 60 students. Students developed the wardrobe, lighting, staging, props, and more, with the mentorship of professional volunteers. Held at the end of April 2021 in the Walter C. Deye Performance Center, the students demonstrated their wish for diversity within the modern political process through the colorful and varied wardrobe choices for the characters. Theatre Xavier students were asked to share their thoughts about the process, one student anonymously said, “I am thankful for everyone that has helped me grow through the program into becoming the young man I am today. I truly feel like I found myself in TX and I look forward to carrying the lessons I learned here through my future endeavors”
Keating Natatorium Renovation Update Keating Natatorium has been an iconic fixture on the St. Xavier campus for over 50 years. Home to the perennial state champion AquaBombers, it has welcomed some of the best swimmers and divers ever to come out of Greater Cincinnati. After serving as such a wonderful home to so many, Keating Natatorium is undergoing an extensive renovation. To date, the pool decks, pool liner and gutters have been removed. The old equipment and locker rooms have been gutted and the new sound panels have been placed. The next few months will see the completion of the project just in time for the AquaBombers to begin practicing. The Keating Natatorium Renovation Campaign positions St. Xavier Swimming and Diving for continued excellence for decades to come. To help with the project, please visit www.stxavier.org/keatingnatatorium
St. X Celebrates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month This May St. X was proud to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with a full display of Asian American culture, heritage and graduates of St. X along with notable Asian and Pacific Americans in our main lobby and other area display cases. “Our goal with any diversity effort is to inspire our students to dream and achieve like our successful alums and notable figures around the world,” stated Wayne Miller, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. If they can see themselves in images and visuals, it brings their dreams closer to their reality.” The display cases also shared educational information about the number of cultures within the Asia Pacific communities as well as addressing common misconceptions. In addition, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month placards were distributed throughout the building affirming the month-long celebration as well as Asian American historical facts placed in the homeroom announcements. To culminate the observance, our students were privy to a powerful documentary produced by St. X Alum Mario Lathan ’94, on the life of Mike 6
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
Adachi and his Family. Mike was St. X’s first Japanese American Graduate in 1962. A special thanks to World Languages Chinese teacher Doris Yan and Parents Across Culture members Maria Olaguera, Gail Chang, Rowena Dorsey and Dina Moore for their invaluable assistance.
The Cannonball Jubilee Rev. Terrance A. Baum, SJ
On May 20, 1521 in Pamplona, Spain, a military career and a leg were both shattered by a cannonball in a battle with the French. The wounded Iñigo Lopez de Loyola, in excruciating pain, was transported 70 miles to the family home in Azpeitia in the Basque region of northern Spain to recuperate. The convalescence took nine months. What to do during the recovery? There were two books in the Loyola household: a life of Christ and a collection of lives of the saints. Iñigo would read passages from both and during times of reflection would imagine himself following Christ and engaging in deeds not unlike those of St. Francis and St. Dominic. During those times, a sweetness would enter his soul. Over this nine-month period, Iñigo experienced the fire of conversion and dedicated himself to the Lord and His service. A grand adventure followed that took him to Manresa and its cave, the Holy Land, and several cities in Spain to obtain an education. In 1528, he traveled to Paris to receive the best theological education available in Europe. It is there that Iñigo became Ignatius. It is also there that he gathered around himself a group of companions with whom he shared his spiritual insights, Francis Xavier among them.
In 1540, that group of companions became the Society of Jesus with full approval from the Holy Father. Ignatius Loyola spent the next sixteen years of his life in Rome as superior general, effectively “chained to his desk” leading this community of men dedicated to the service of God and His people. While in Rome, Ignatius’ dear friend Francis Xavier was sent on his grand adventure as a missionary leading him to India and Japan. The reports he sent back home to Ignatius and his Jesuit brothers of his ministry in Asia captured the imaginations of many young Jesuits who desired to follow his example and become missionaries. Both men achieved sanctity in serving God in very different ways. And both were honored by the Church on March 12, 1622 when they were canonized saints. From May 20, 2021 until July 31, 2022 (the feast day of St. Ignatius), the Society of Jesus celebrates a Jubilee. Let all those who love the Jesuits join them in remembering these two great saints and how they continue to inspire. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
7
The Year in Review Co-Curriculars
Volunteer Programs
Choir
Through the pandemic, hundreds of St. X students gave thousands of hours to serve food to the homeless, play games with young adults with developmental disabilities, work in nature preserves, remotely mentor younger kids and clean up yards of neighbors in need of a little extra help.
It’s no secret that this year has been a challenge for education institutions around the world. Amidst these challenging times, the St. Xavier Choirs were able to safely and joyfully continue to make music! While rehearsals and performances looked quite different than usual, Ensemble X and X-Men, choirs had strong showings throughout the year.
Mission Trips
Fifty St. X students went on weeklong trips to Appalachia in September to April. Even in masks, the bombers chopped wood, dug ditches, planted crops and repaired homes in underserved areas. This summer, over 130 students signed up to carry the tradition of giving up a week of their summer in service of others. Food Drive
Despite everything, 2020 was the best year for the annual Canned Food Drive on record. Freshman and sophomore homerooms collected 75,410 pounds of food – over 10,000 more pounds than 2019. Juniors and seniors collected and delivered to 25 local food banks. Because of the impact of the pandemic, more Cincinnatians than ever went to food banks for the first time.
8
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
In August, Ensemble X hosted auditions and selected 28 talented young men to represent our top tier musicianship. Together with X-Men, the choir program put on a virtual production of their season opener in October titled “Brothers in Song”. Through recording sessions, audio editing, and videography these young men were able to produce a cohesive concert in unique ways during a pandemic that has barred many choirs from singing. At long last, May 11 brought the first live performance in 14 months. Performing a concert titled “The Journey Home,” X-Men and Ensemble X featured a repertoire delving into our personal concepts of “home.” Whether home be a physical location with family, an emotional place within your heart, or a spiritual home with God, St. Xavier choirs were happy to again call the stage home. This performance welcomed back to the stage alumni of the longstanding St. X choral tradition to join in on the performance of the Ensemble’s familiar tunes. The concert was outdoors in the beautiful Seasongood Pavilion in Eden Park next to the Cincinnati Art Museum, allowing for a COVID safe performance that was free and accessible to the community to enjoy.
Band
The Bomber Bands had a wonderful year albeit a challenging year due to COVID-19 precautions. It began with the Marching Bombers attending their annual summer band camps preparing for the marching season’s performances with the uncertainty that they would be allowed to perform. The Bomber Band’s hard work and determination to provide spirited and entertaining performances came to fruition through the implementation of necessary precautions and safety measures.
“Tainted Love,” “High Hopes,” and more. The Marching band traveled to the final two football games making it possible for the boys to participate in St. Xavier’s winning the state semi-finals and state championship.
The jazz band, the concert band, and the percussion ensemble spent the year rehearsing in individual plastic cubicles for in-person students while other members joined in via zoom. Performances were recorded and presented to parents and fans through various media options. Both Marching bands were not allowed to ensembles were able to provide recordings travel to away games during the regular for Open House, the annual Christmas season this year. The band performed for concert, the Michael Benson Jazz Concert, the parents and players as they loaded up and the end of the year concert. These and departed for their away games. They three ensembles were able to present a live performed for two home soccer matches performance in the stadium at the end of since they were not allowed to travel with the semester for many spectators that were the football team. The musical theme was thrilled to finally be able to attend an in“One Hit Wonders” featuring songs such as, person concert. “Take on Me,” “Play That Funky Music,”
Theatre Xavier
This year, the pandemic provided challenges for theaters across the country, but Theatre Xavier used this time as an opportunity to expand its usual offerings by creating the first ever TX movie! The War of the Worlds, a classic tale of global panic, was filmed and presented as the TX Fall show. TX offered the film via streaming to keep audiences safe. The Spring show saw TX audiences back in the theatre in a big way! Theatre Xavier
performed, masked, but in-person, the hit musical 1776 to sold-out crowds. This musical combined modern casting, costuming and set choices with the signing of the Declaration of Independence to create a historic story that felt very much like it was about our modern world. Next year TX will be helping folks recover from the pandemic by offering laughs and a good time. Our first show will be a hilarious collection of short plays titled “Lives of the Saints” by celebrated comedic playwright David Ives. And following that will be what many call the greatest musical of all time - Singin’ In the Rain. These shows will be followed by a trip to Scotland where Theatre Xavier will perform a show, written and performed by our students, as part of the world’s largest performing arts event - the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Strings
The Men in Black String Ensemble presented the first virtual St. X Fall String Concert in September of 2020. A small group of parents and students met in the Theater on September 30 to view the video that was shared and simultaneously viewed in the homes of many parents, students, and interested community members. In December, the string ensemble released a Christmas video which included nostalgic images from many of the string players’ families. And the Men in Black 2021 Spring Concert was shared with the community in May. This final concert included musical arrangements by Raza Adhami ’21 and Ryan Schnitter ’23. The Men in Black continued to participate in a variety of recording projects including some collaborations with the Campus Ministry office. One of the most impressive recording projects was senior Daniel Dorsey as the featured cello player on the Monday, January 4, 2021 broadcast of From the Top, a national classical music broadcast which spotlights the very best musicians in the country. Daniel Dorsey is moving on to study cello at the Cleveland Institute of Music in Cleveland, Ohio. Some of the members of the string ensemble have branched out to electronic violins, violas, cellos, and basses allowing them to perform in alternative venues like the Friday Flex tunes which take place at the coffee kiosk in the gym lobby and in nearby outdoor venues. Fourteen of the Men in Black were featured on a May 5 concert at the Wolterman Memorial Park in College Hill. And as we approached the final weeks of the ’20-’21 school year, registration for the 2022 Spring Break Music Trip to Disney opened up and the string players joined the choir and band students in preparing a return in-person large ensemble performances.
Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
9
The Year in Review Athletics
The 2020-2021 school year will always be remembered for a lot of things: masks, plexi-glass, social distancing, quarantining, hand sanitizer, protocols and more. For St. Xavier Athletics, it will also be remembered as one of, if not the most, successful years in school history. The season began in the spring of 2020 as the Athletic Department worked tirelessly with the Hamilton County Public Health Office and the State of Ohio to put together protocols and regulations to be able to get athletes back on campus and prepare for the year. The St. X Coaches, Athletic Trainers and Strength & Conditioning staff proved once again why they are the best in the business as they implemented anything and everything that was handed to them to make sure the Bombers were ready for the season. Even though there were several shut-downs, numerous changes, and endless regulations, the entire St. X community came together to do everything they could to make sure the 2020-2021 year moved forward. In the end the Bombers captured 10 out of 12 GCL Championships with 10 sports reaching the state finals/final four and two capturing a state championship. This would not have been possible without the over 750 student-athletes striving for the magis in all they did, but also without the support, patience, and understanding of all coaches, athletic staff, faculty, administration and, especially, our families who navigated everything to support the Bombers!
FALL CROSS COUNTRY - GCL CHAMPIONS The Cross Country team was looking to defend their state title as the team returned a number of key runners for the 2020 season. The Bombers started their post-season run by capturing their 10th straight GCL Championship as St. X finished in the top six spots led by GCL Runner of the Year, Nate Mountain ’21 and coached by GCL Coach of the Year, Andy Wietmarschen. From there, it was onto Districts where the Bombers captured their 6th straight championship and then ran to a Regional Championship the following week with Mountain finishing 1st in both meets. From there it was onto the State Championship where St. X came up just short of defending their title finishing second in the state.
GOLF - GCL CHAMPIONS The 2020 Golf team was poised to make another trip to the state championships as they returned a number of key golfers for the 2020 season. On their way, the team captured their sixth consecutive GCL Championship led by GCL Golfer of the Year, Sophomore Eric Braun. Head Coach Alex Kepley was named GCL Coach of the Year for the sixth
consecutive year. From there the Bombers captured the Sectional Championship and District Championship qualifying them for their eighth consecutive spot at the state championship. St. X tied the all-time school record at the state championship shooting 616 which won them the championship in 2015. It was just short of taking the title, as the Bombers finished in third at the state final capping off a memorable season.
SOCCER - GCL CHAMPIONS The St. X Soccer team was loaded with a very talented Senior class as they looked to make a run in 2020. The season started off with a 7-0 streak and top ranking in the state of Ohio. From there, the Bombers captured the GCL Championship led by GCL Player of the Year Briggs O’Toole and Head Coach Brian Schaeper, GCL Coach of the Year. From there St. X rallied to win their fourth straight District Championship as they were able to host Regionals on their home field. The Bombers prevailed, winning two final games at St. X and capturing their first Regional Championship since 2008 advancing them to the Final Four. While the Bombers came up short in the state semi-final game, the season will be one that goes down in history.
FOOTBALL - GCL CHAMPIONS The 2020 football season will go down as one of the most memorable in school history. While most states cancelled or postponed their seasons, Ohio went from a 10-game regular season to six games with everyone making the playoffs. The season started off with a trip to Brownsburg, Indiana where the Bombers played on ESPN2. It was one of only two losses as they swept the GCL and defeated St. Ignatius to go 4-0 against Ohio teams. In the playoffs, the Bombers defeated Walnut Hills, Moeller, Elder, Lakota West, and Springfield to go to the state championship against Pickerington Central, the defending state champs. St. X dominated the game 44-3 capturing the team’s 4th state championship and broke five state championship game records including largest margin of victory and fewest yards allowed. The Bombers were led by GCL and District Coach of the Year Steve Specht, and Penn State commit Liam Clifford, GCL, District and Ohio player of the year.
10
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
WINTER BOWLING The Bowling team returned a number of key bowlers for the 2020-2021 season. Like all sports, Bowling is very competitive in the GCL as Elder and LaSalle have had a grip on the league for a number of years. That didn’t faze the Bombers as they swept Elder for the first time in eight years and swept Moeller for the first time in four years on their way to second place in the GCL. The Bombers won Sectionals and placed fifth in Districts qualifying the team for the state championships for only the fifth time in school history and the first time in 12 years. Head Coach Matt Hott led St. X to seventh in the state, which ties the best in school history, with Owen Sena ’21 finishing fourth, the highest finish by a Bomber in school history.
BASKETBALL - GCL CHAMPIONS Like all sports in the 2020-2021 season, the Basketball season took a turn every week with games being canceled, added, and moved. Secondyear Head Coach Mike Noszka wasn’t fazed as he prepared to play anyone anywhere. The regular season featured a rare trip during the pandemic as they travelled to Cleveland to play at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, home of the Cleveland Cavs. The next Friday St. X travelled to Moeller and held on to the defeat the Crusaders for the first time in 15 years leading to a share of the GCL title, their first since 2005. The Bombers were led by GCL and District Player of the Year Kobe Rodgers ’21 and Coach of the Year, Mike Noszka. St. X charged through the tournament leading to their 1st District Championship since 2010. The Bombers came up just short in the rematch with Moeller in the Regionals but showed the league and state that St. X Basketball is back!
SWIMMING AND DIVING - GCL CHAMPIONS St. Xavier’s and the state of Ohio’s most successful team, the St. X Swimming and Diving team, was faced with one of the biggest rebuilding years in recent history as only four athletes returned from the previous year’s state championship team. Fans would never know that as the AquaBombers kicked off post-season action by capturing their 61st consecutive GCL Championship and 76th in school history. From there, St. X swam to their 51st consecutive Sectional Championship and 53rd consecutive District Championship to qualify for the State Championship in Canton. Even though there was very limited capacity at the state meet, the natatorium was once again dominated by St. X capping off an amazing rebuilding year. In the end, St. X captured their 42nd state title and 13th in a row. The AquaBombers were led for the last time by Head Coach Tim Beerman who has led the program for six seasons. With Keating Natatorium undergoing a $5.5 million renovation, the future of St. X Swimming & Diving is strong and continues to grow.
ICE HOCKEY The St. X Hockey team had a new leader this season as Head Coach Bob Bove took over and led the program through their pandemic season. Having joined the highly competitive Capital Conference out of Columbus two years ago, the Bombers rose to the occasion once again. Amidst a season of cancellations, changes, and additions, the Bombers made it through the regular season and were placed in the 11-team league consolation cup bracket in postseason action. The Bombers skated to the Consolation Championship while the JV team came out on top leading the league to finish the regular season. St. X has truly made their mark on the league as they look to continue to build on their success.
WRESTLING The Bomber Wrestling team was also facing a tough rebuilding year with only a few seniors returning for the unique and complicated 2020-2021 season. The schedule was truly decimated as all tournaments and other matches were cancelled due to the pandemic. St. X was able to host and ending up winning a home match which was one of the highlights of a difficult year. Under the leadership of second-year Head Coach Neal Ryan, the Bombers had six athletes qualify for Districts with one making his way to State as an alternate.
SPRING BASEBALL - GCL CHAMPIONS Having missed their 2020 season due to the pandemic, the Bombers were anxious to take the field once again in 2021. Under the leadership of GCL Coach of the Year Bob Sherlock, the Bombers navigated a tough schedule and typical spring weather in Ohio to capture the GCL Championship for the second consecutive season. St. X was led during the regular season by GCL Player of the Year Max Klare and Pitcher of the
Year William Jaun ’21. The Bombers captured the top seed in the District leading into post-season action. St. X navigated the Districts capturing the school’s 11th District Championship. While the 2021 tournament run ended in the Regionals, the Bombers provided some great excitement and momentum for the program.
LACROSSE The St. X Lacrosse team was poised and ready to get back to action in 2021 after a disappointing 2020 season that was cancelled. The Bombers were young and had one of the most difficult schedules in the Midwest, but they rose to the occasion and continued to get better as the season progressed. Under the leadership of Head Coach Nate Sprong, the Bombers defeated the top team in Kentucky and Division 2 in Ohio as they looked to make a run to state. The difficult .500 season proved to pay off as St. X rolled through their first two games in the tournament and held on to avenge their regular season loss to Moeller defeating them on their home field in Regional action. The Bombers once again avenged a regular season loss as they held onto to defeat Springboro to win the Regional Championship and advance to the Final Four for the third consecutive season. While the run stopped short in the state semi-finals, the future continues to look bright for St. X Lacrosse.
TENNIS - GCL CHAMPIONS Joe Jackson was named the new head coach of St. Xavier tennis in the fall of 2019. It wasn’t until 18 months later that the Tennis Bombers finally got to hit the court for action. St. X picked up where they left off as they captured their 53rd consecutive GCL Championship as Coach Jackson was named GCL Coach of the Year and Charlie Temming ’21 was named GCL Player of the Year. Both the JV and Varsity teams won the Coach’s Classic held at St. X’s 17-court complex. While the team fell short in team action, St. X captured the single and doubles Sectional Championships and also advanced to the state championships. There, they came up just short in state. The tradition of St. Xavier Tennis continues and looks stronger than ever.
VOLLEYBALL - GCL CHAMPIONS The 2021 St. X Volleyball team was looking forward to defending its state championship, even though it had to wait two years. The Bombers were once again led by Head Coach Bill Ferris as the team started 11-0 and ranked at the top of the state to start off the season. As with all sports, the GCL proved to be very competitive as Elder, Moeller, and the Bombers went back and forth throughout the season. In the end the three schools tied for the league championship setting up a battle to make it to the state championships. While St. X came up just short in a heart-breaking loss, the tradition of winning looks bright as both the JV and JVB teams went undefeated this year going 30-0 combined setting up some great seasons ahead.
RUGBY The Rugby team entered the spring as Rugby 7’s State Champions which took place during the fall. As with all teams, the Bombers navigated an ever-changing season due to the pandemic, but were able to get in many matches highlighted by big wins over Lakota and Walnut Hills on their home pitch on South Campus. Head Coach Ken Haber led the Bombers for the last time as the team graduated one of the largest in program history. While the season ended with a tough loss against St. Ignatius, the program continues to grow and succeed.
WATER POLO While Water Polo is traditionally a fall sport in the state of Ohio, the decision was made to move it to the spring this year in hopes that the pandemic would be better by then and they could have a full season. The move paid off as St. X Water Polo, under the direction of second-year Head Coach Paul Splitt, had a full season making Powel Crosley’s outdoor pool their home for the season due to the renovation of Keating Natatorium. In tournament action the Bombers made their way through regionals capturing the Regional Championship and advancing to the Final Four. St. X fought hard but came up short and now look to move the season back to the fall in 2021 and building on the momentum and success of this past season.
TRACK & FIELD - GCL CHAMPIONS The St. Xavier Track & Field team continues to grow and succeed culminating in one of the best seasons in school history in 2021! With more than 100 athletes on the team and very limited entries in meets due to the pandemic, it proved to be quite a challenge to get enough competition for everyone. Head Coach Kyle Schreiner navigated everything and led the Bombers to some impressive results including the GCL Championship, the first one since 2005. The Bombers continued this momentum into the post-season capturing the District Championship for the first time since 2006 and the Regional Championship for the first time in school history. Nine Bombers qualified for the State Championship with Nate Mountain ’21 adding to his indoor state championship in the 1600 with another state championship. St. X finished third in the state, tying for their highest finish ever.
Meet Dan Lynch
Dan Lynch started a new chapter in his life as principal of St. Xavier High School on July 1, 2021. Mr. Lynch began his career at St. Xavier in the early 90s. After many years, he returned seven years ago and has been a faculty member in the Mathematics Department. Please welcome Dan as he begins his career as the newest principal!
Mr. Lynch featured with the Mathametics Department at graduation.
Please tell us about your family.
I’m a proud husband to Anne of 29 years and father to three. My two girls have followed in their Mother’s footsteps and both graduated from Ursuline Academy: Kara ’20 and Brigid ’21. Both girls will be students at Xavier University. My son Conor is a rising 8th grader at All Saints School and future Bomber as part of the graduating Class of 2026. What brought you originally to St. Xavier?
I am honored to be a graduate of Creighton Prep, the Jesuit high school in Omaha, NE. It was my experiences there which led to my own vocation in teaching. I graduated from Xavier University and then did my student teaching at St. X in the fall of 1990. I worked with Joan Whitaker primarily, but I was also lucky enough to learn from fellow teachers John Rheebush, Pete Corrigan and Bill Sandquist. In the fall of 1991, Mike Trainor, former principal, was willing to expand the Math department and hired me on full time. I could not have been happier! What took you away from St. Xavier?
GE. Beginning in the summer of 1994, we moved nine times around the world. I was able to work at four other Jesuit Schools: Marquette University High School (1996-1997, 1999-2002, 2012-2014), St. Aloysius’ College in Sydney Australia (1997-1999), St. Joseph’s Prep in Philadelphia (20022004) and Regis High School in NYC (2004-2006). We also lived in London, England from 2006-2012 where I worked in an International School teaching Mathematics and, at the end, serving as the interim Middle School Principal. After 20 years of moving, we wanted to settle down for the teenage years of our children. Cincinnati and St. Xavier High School were an easy choice for our final destination. Please list the things you have done while at St. X.
During my first stint at St. X, I coached freshman football for a year and freshman soccer for two years. I served on the Kairos board and helped to lead two retreats. I took a great group of young men on a mission trip to the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota for two weeks. During the past seven years, I have been coaching JV soccer, serving as a Kairos director, working with the St. Xavier Faculty
As a young married couple, Anne was working at GE Aviation
Association and this year helped to get the new Emmaus
and was given the opportunity to explore other roles within
Retreat (Freshmen Retreat) started.
12
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
What is your favorite place in Cincinnati?
What is your vision for your first year?
Ballaban Field and Cintas Center on game days.
Coming out of a pandemic, it is my hope that we can return to some sense of normalcy for both the students and adults alike.
What is special about St. Xavier?
New initiatives will be kept to a minimum. However, we will
Like all Jesuit schools, the mission of the school is what
continue to work to excel and grow in areas already established
draws me in. However, it is the people that sustain me and
– the classroom, athletics, extracurriculars, retreats and service
make me excited to keep returning to work each day. We
work. There are no off years when striving for the Magis.
have a phenomenal faculty and staff that are dedicated to the mission and success of the school. The students of St. Xavier are intelligent, cooperative and willing to work hard in order to grow and succeed. The families and alums of the school provide additional support in countless important ways with both time and treasure.
Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
13
Graduation
On May 27, the Class of 2021 was welcomed into the Long Blue Line of St. Xavier alumni. The 332 young men ceremoniously followed the members of the Class of 1970 (who joined this year since COVID prevented them from welcoming the Class of 2020 in person) and 1971 into the Cintas Center for the graduation ceremony upholding the tradition of the 50-year anniversary class leading the procession. Principal Terry Tyrrell welcomed the graduates, alumni, parents and family members supporting the members of the class on this special occasion. He encouraged the graduates to continue to live the Jesuit motto of Ad Maijorem Dei Gloriam, for the Greater Glory of God. Hasan S. Quadri ’21 spoke on behalf of the senior class pushing them to continue to celebrate the five characteristics of the Graduate at Graduation, especially being Open to Growth. St. Xavier alumnus Mr. Vivek G. Ramaswamy ’03 was the keynote speaker encouraging students to embrace hardship and achieving excellence.
14
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
Academic Awards 2021 The J. Harold Kotte, M.D. Biology Award Creighton Bolter Wright III The Donald N. Berning, M.D. ’38 Chemistry Award Ryan Joseph Rotsching Chinese Daniel Driscoll Zacharski Community Service Ethan Frederick Roth Computer Science Joseph Mitchell Reinert English Joshua David Uterstaedt French Raymond Arthur Barrish III German Alexander Thomas Stewart Health/Physical Education Connor J Tooman Latin Joshua David Uterstaedt Mathematics William Connor Jones Music Daniel James Dorsey Physics Evan James Day Religion Ryan James Yu Social Studies Grant Christian Dutro
Graduation Awards Senior Scholar Award William Connor Jonnes Rev. Joseph Brennan, S.J. Award Joseph Richard Nichols
Spanish Evan James Day
St. Francis Xavier Service Award Hasan Syed Quadri and Creighton Bolter Wright III
Theater Christopher Joseph Szaz
Dr. Charles Farrell Memorial Leadership Award Benjamin Choquette Kemper
Visual Arts Chase Andrew Padgett
Jesuit Schools Network Award John Anthony Piehowicz III
Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
15
excerpts from the ARCHIV E S
Nicholas Kemper ’06, Archivist
Summer: that special time in a young student’s life when responsibilities from the past school year dissipate into the hot and humid air, and late nights are surpassed by even later mornings. Some students work, some travel, and some don’t do much of anything at all. But if you had been a student at St. Xavier in the 1930s, you might have found yourself heading out west—to Camp De Smet. Founded by Jesuits in 1925 and named after the famous Jesuit missionary and “friend of Sitting Bull,” Pierre-Jean De Smet, Camp De Smet was situated at the St. Francis Mission on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. Students from Jesuit schools across the United States were encouraged to spend eight weeks of their summer at De Smet, a place where “boyhood’s wildest imaginings find glorious fulfillment” and where young men acquired“ a depth and breadth of character and thought not to be gained from books.” 1 Upon arrival each camper was assigned a horse, a trusty steed who became a constant companion throughout the summer. In addition to mastering the equine arts, students spent their days praying, swimming, boxing, fishing, and hiking; more adventurous campers could even try their hand at branding cattle, busting broncos, or wrestling steers. Evenings were typically reserved for tamer pursuits: viewing films, singing songs, and camping under the vast night sky. The Camp De Smet experience culminated with the Black Hills trip, a two-week 1,000-mile trek on horseback through South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska. Along the way, campers stopped at Mount Coolidge, Sylvan Lake, Evan’s Plunge Hot Springs, and the famous Old West towns of Deadwood, Rapid City, and Cheyenne. 16
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
Camp De Smet brochure cover, c.1930s. Courtesy of the Jesuit Archives and Research Center, St. Louis.
The end of summer signaled the end of camp, and students dispersed to their diverse points of origin. St. Xavier campers, as one anonymous St. X student remembered in 1932, “were shipped home to ‘Good Old Cincinnati.’” 2 Camp De Smet ceased operations in the summer of 1942. By that time, the romanticized notion of a long-gone “frontier life” had given way to the grim realities of the Second World War. But the memories and experiences of De Smet lived on with the campers. “Being out there on my own was so exciting, and everything was so new. We saw rodeos and airplanes and cowboys,” remarked Robert Rielly, St. X class of 1938. “It was everything a boy could’ve wanted.” 3
Known St. Xavier attendees of Camp De Smet: Robert Rielly ’38 Joseph Warren ’38 William Topmoeller, SJ ’39 Richard Winterman ’39 Jim Cramer ’41 Ray Gudmens ’41 John Kelley ’41 Andy Rohan ’41 Bill Geoghegan ’42 Elmer Shard ’42 Clarence Dorger ’43 Rohan Kelley ’43 Edwin Stenger ’43 Francis Dorger ’45 John Glaser, Jr. ’45 Thomas Finn ’45 Edward Kelley ’46 Kevin Kelley ’47
Black Hills excursion route. Courtesy of the Jesuit Archives and Research Center, St. Louis.
Special thanks to Ann Knake at the Jesuit Archives and Research Center in St. Louis for providing additional material for this article. 1
“DeSmet: A Western Camp for Catholic Boys,” brochure c.1930s. Missouri Province Archive, Box 3.0248, Jesuit Archives and Research Center, St. Louis, Missouri.
2
The Conqueror, Vol. 2 No. 2, October 27, 1932. Student Publications Collection, St. Xavier High School Archives, Cincinnati, Ohio.
3
Partners Magazine, Summer 2002. Wisconsin Province Archive, Box 3.0046, Jesuit Archives and Research Center, St. Louis, Missouri.
Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
17
Alumni Reflections Kurt Meier ’63 Kurt Meier ’63 has found a way to be a Man for Others while crafting a career he loves as an artist. We spoke with Kurt about his memories of St. Xavier and how he carries on the memories of Fr. Brown and fellow classmate, Dick Mutchler. Please enjoy Kurt’s reflections: Rev. Father Richard Brown, SJ, taught me Religion when I was in my first year at St. Xavier in the old downtown campus. He was such a spiritual person and made me aware that God gave us life to serve God and serve others for the honor and glory of God. Fr. Brown gave each in our class a small card that I still have which is framed in my bedroom. As Fr. Brown so often knew what to say, Father’s advice starts off: ‘To live right, always desire and strive to die right. To die right, get God on your side.’ Fr. recited the words on that card from memory when he got to the classroom door. My thought is that there is little difference between ‘Men for Others’ and ‘AMDG.’ My belief is that I should try to serve others for the honor and glory of God. Helping others is such a rich thing to do. And you do it for God’s glory. And it enriches your life in countless ways. Simply stated, Fr. Brown was right. I have always said that the Jesuits never gave up on me during my time at St. X. Every teacher I ever had continued to push me to do my very best. It was a challenge and I know that it was a challenge for my teachers as well. I am thankful to this day for my education at St. X. My college and law school days seemed manageable because of my St. X background.
Dick Mutchler ’63
Rev. Father Richard Brown, SJ
Please allow me to talk about my friend, Dick Mutchler ’63, with whom I attended Saint Thomas Grade School, St. Xavier and X.U. Dick was a Bomber from the inside out. Dick played baseball, football and basketball for the mighty Bombers. Although he befriended everyone in the classroom, he loved running into them on the football field. And he was a better baseball player. I cannot remember a time in my life when Dick wasn’t there making people laugh. Unfortunately, Dick got killed by an impaired driver when he was 24 years old. His infant son also died in the accident. I’ve dedicated my art efforts and profits to St. Xavier in honor of Dick. Dick is certainly part of my personal St. Xavier Advantage. I spent my career practicing law primarily in the business sector. I stumbled into the international world when I was involved in a business both in France and the USA. Through my relationship with the Munich/Cincinnati Sister Cities collaborative where I served as Economic Development Director, I began privately representing businesses located both in Belgium and Germany. During that time, I resorted to study habits learned at St. X.
18
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
Vice President’s Message Tony Schad ’81
If it were easy, everybody would do it. Hard is what makes it great. - Tom Hanks, A League Of Their Own
I love that quote. In fact, I have probably used it in this column in the past, but I am going to use it again because it is so true. Not just anybody or anyone can accomplish what happened at St. X this past school year. And yes, it was hard, but it was also really great!
•
More than 1,300 of our students participated in our Career ConneXions program and more than 80 are interning this summer.
•
Our athletes captured GCL titles in Cross-Country, Football, Golf, Soccer, Basketball, Swimming, Baseball, Tennis, Track and Volleyball while securing the overall GCL All Sports Trophy once again.
•
And, thanks to the diligence of our entire community, in-person learning occurred all year long at St. Xavier.
Our students, faculty and staff not only worked through a pandemic, they thrived! Here are just some of the accomplishments this year: •
The average ACT score was 28.5 and average SAT was 1282.
•
St. Xavier had 15 National Merit Finalists and our students took 1,071 Advanced Placement Tests.
•
TX produced a movie in the fall as well as an in-person production in the spring.
•
Musicians performed in virtual and live strings, band and choral concerts (including our marching band performing at the birthday celebration of our most senior alumnus!)
•
The mission trip and retreat programs continued and students collected more than 100,000 pounds of food for our neihgbors.
•
179 of our students reached out to the Long Blue Line during our student phonathon which generated more than $250,000 for needbased tuition assistance and the entire student body generated more than $120,000 in the Walk for X this year.
None of the accomplishments mentioned, and the many that were not, were easy to accomplish. It really is the “hard” that makes them great. And, as was pointed out during our all school Mass in the spring in our stadium, the Class of 2021 really did lead the way! Before I finish this column, I want to acknowledge a very special person who has given 25 years of incredible service to efforts in the Advancement office at St. Xavier High School. I have worked closely with Mrs. Cheryl Asper for my entire time at St. Xavier. Cheryl’s behind the scenes work and honestly being my right hand person, has impacted so many lives and the overall mission of St. X in so many ways. Thank you, Cheryl, for all you mean to me, those in our department and to so many students, alumni and parents of St. Xavier. In addition to Cheryl, there are so many individuals to thank that it is just not possible in this magazine. But please know how appreciative our students, faculty and staff are for the support of our parents, alumni and friends and all the many benefactors that made the 2020-21 school year not just a possibility, but a fantastic reality. If it were easy, everybody would do it. Hard is what makes it great! Thank you Long and Wide Blue Line of St. Xavier. You made it great!
Tony Schad ’81 and Cheryl Asper Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
19
Career ConneXions Students, adults hear how to navigate toward success Career ConneXions enhanced its curriculum this past winter by adding a seven-part seminar whose content has been presented in leadership sessions at business colleges at the Universities of Cincinnati, Indiana and Notre Dame. The program, titled “Navigating Toward Academic and Career Success,” was created by Bill Bagley, who, with his son, Scott, runs Bagley Consulting. Combined, the Bagleys have more than 65 years’ experience in the human capital arena, writing, teaching and consulting over a broad spectrum of industries. The course was offered online over seven consecutive Wednesday evenings this past winter. The topics were: • • • • • • •
Nine-Year Plan and Becoming a Strategic Partner Personal Credibility, Self-Assessment and Goal-Setting First Impressions and Impact Interviewing Interpersonal Engagement and Oral Communication Skills Marketplace Eminence – The Networking Factor Managing Yourself Around Time Demands and Time Constraints Leading Others via “Connection” Strategies.
20
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
The seminar was made available to all St. Xavier students, parents and alumni. Bill Bagley says he became interested early on in what made some people successful. He majored in history as an undergraduate, focusing on leadership styles of successful people in many fields. “Servant leadership” seemed to be the theme of those people who appealed to him. In graduate school, he crystallized methods that would help people find success. He began to focus on Maslow’s “Hierarchy of Needs” as a standard for achieving success. His curriculum distills this information. To find the course contents, including recorded sessions, Power Point presentations and workbooks, visit the Career ConneXions Web page, https://www.stxavier.org/academics/careerconnexions, under “Program Resources” and “Becoming a Strategic Partner.“
BELOW IMAGE: Bill Bagley spoke to Internship students along with Internship host, Kelly Schoembs (Loth, Inc and mother of incoming student Class of 2025) and experienced intern and alum, Dawson Adams ’19
Alumni X-Cerpts 60’s
70’s
90’s
Jim Albrinck ’61 is an alumnus of the St.
Mark Cardosi ’75 was named to the Irish
Xavier Radio Club! They have Reunions “On the Air” quarterly on the 40-meter ham band.
Legal 100 for 2020.
Mike Hutzel,’90 (pictured below) is the CEO and Founder of EagleONE and often is featured on businessradiox.com podcast. Mike has both an undergraduate and graduate degree from The Ohio State University. He also serves as the Membership Director for Knights of Columbus Council 13813, Lay Spiritual Director of Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP) Ministry.
Jay Moriarty ’64 was interviewed on camera for CNN’s upcoming eight-part Special Series titled HISTORY OF SITCOM which will air this fall. Jay discusses his work as a writer/ producer on series such as All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Maude, Good Times, Dear John, Cosby and more. In addition to his work in TV, Jay has served as an Adjunct Professor in the Writing Division of the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts (film school) for eleven years. Jay is the author of the book HONKY IN THE HOUSE, Writing & Producing The Jeffersons, which tells his story of leaving Ohio for Hollywood and takes readers behind the scenes of that “Dee-Luxe Apartment in the Sky.” The book is available online at Amazon or wherever side-splitting books are sold.
Bill Steiden ’78 is marking a year and a half as the investigative and business editor at the Des Moines Register. It’s his latest step in his journalism career that also has taken him to Columbus, Sarasota and Atlanta.
80’s James Lafferty ’81 was ranked in Forbes Top 100 CEOs in the Middle East and Africa.
Fr. Richard Millbourn, SJ ’86 was named an outstanding educator in The National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) 2021 Lead. Learn. Proclaim. Award (LLP) Program.
Matt Moran ’87 and Mike Nead ’87 work together on a podcast “With Gratitude Matt”. Moran uses his perspective on life as he fights his battle with kidney cancer to help others who are facing adversity in their own lives. He finds gratitude in times of struggle. Recently he has had fellow Bombers Steve Specht ’86 and John Ravenna ’87 as guests.
Kristoffer Bruvold ’92 was part of the successful Mars rover landing in 2021. Fellow graduate and Ohio State roommate, Matthew Hood ’92 said, “He knew exactly what job he wanted, and he worked his butt off to make it a reality. The first photo is from the 2018 MARS landing, he’s working from home this time. It’s landing now!”
Ed Quinn ’65 recently received the Steven Dodson “Excellence in Umpiring” Award. This award is given annually to a GNOA (Greater Naples Officials Association) primary umpire that exemplifies the skill, professionalism, and attitude that it takes to be a successful umpire. The award recognizes that he possesses a positive attitude and personality to be a topnotch umpire and umpire trainer.
Tim Bien ’68 was the Executive Producer of the film, Deadly Illusions, which was released in March 2021.
Kristoffer Bruvold ’92 Tim Bien ’68 was the Exectuive Producer on this Film Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
21
00’s
10’s
20’s
Vivek Ramaswamy ’03 In his biography on Amazon, ‘Vivek Ramaswamy emerged as a prominent national commentator on stakeholder capitalism, free speech, and woke culture. He has authored numerous articles and op-eds, which have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, National Review, Newsweek, and Harvard Business Review.’ His new book, entitled, Woke, Inc., will be published in August 2021 by Center Street publishing. Ramaswamy was the keynote speaker at the 2021 commencement ceremony.
Connor Buczek ’11 was named head coach
Ian Meier ’21 was promoted to the rank of Second Lieutenant and is now an officer in the Civil Air Patrol Lunken Cadet Squadron. In doing so, he was also given the orange ribbon with two white stripes for the Billy Mitchell Award. William Lendrum Mitchell was a United States Army general who is regarded as the father of the United States Air Force.
Frank Bergh ’04 was featured in the Engineering Momentum Magazine of the Washington University in St. Louis for his efforts “to set up microgrids and off-grid solar energy systems in sub-Saharan Africa”. As a senior electrical engineer, Bergh continues the efforts of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association International (NRECA). The non-profit has brought power to over 65 developing countries and served 160 million people since 1962. Jake Robinson ’08 starred in the film, The Mimic, which was released in February and is currently available on Prime Video.
Brian Kemper ’16
Charlie Robson ’16 and Alex Murtha ’16 22
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
of Cornell University Men’s Lacrosse. Buczek is the youngest Division I coach and brings his experience as a three-time All-American for Cornell University from 2012-15 and has played internationally.
Kyle Denman ’13 was named to the 30 Under 30 Changemaker in Education list for 2021 by the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools. This adds to list of accomplishments with the International Design Awards 2019, Young Fashion Designer of the Year 2018, and Project Runway Remake It Work Grand Winner 2016. Andrew J. Besl ’14 along with Grandin Manor band mates, Kyle Sun and Sean Pence, recorded and EP that will release soon. Andrew works for the Warner Music Group and has a BBA from Belmont University with a minor in Communications.
Brian Kemper ’16 graduated from UC, Lindner College of Business and has decided to join the Society of Jesus. He will be moving to St. Paul, Minnesota to continue to be a #manforothers. A music partnership that started senior year at St. X at the school-wide talent show has developed into the formation of a band named Rjght (pronounced “right”). Charlie Robson ’16 and Alex Murtha ’16 set out to pursue their dream of writing an album back in May 2019, and have worked remotely through senior year of college and the pandemic to bring that dream to reality. They have included as many friends as they could along the way. The music features appearances from Chris Dunkley ’15 on guitar, Ben Martin ’16 on drums, and Ihsan Walker ’16 on vocals. Additionally, the logo for the group was created by Jack Hadley ’16 and the album art was created by Addison Maly ’16. The whole project was mixed and partly produced by Ryan Rajagopal ’15 who now works in Los Angeles as an audio engineer. You can find the band’s debut album A Synonym For on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, and all other streaming platforms by searching for Rjght.
Where are they now? Retired teacher, Mike Marchal, who taught at St. Xavier from 1974-2014 is enjoying his contemplative life with good friends and good food. During his retirement he has written several articles and completed his book, Deep in the Spirit; The Inner Dynamics of Conversion. Mike is active in his parish and is involved with the RCIA program. He like to say, “Happy are those who have a hobby or avocation!” In his free time, he enjoys movies, friends, and serving his signature dish, Greek Cauliflower.
Mike Marchal Then and Now
Spirit of Sister Dorothy Stang Award Congratulations to faculty member Jill Malik! She received the Spirit of Sister Dorothy Stang Award. The Spirit of Sister Dorothy Stang Award is given to faculty members, parish ministers, parishioners active in social justice ministry and graduating seniors in the Catholic high schools and parish youth ministry programs in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. It is granted by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati Offices of Mission, Social Action, Youth and Young Adult Ministry and Evangelization and Catechesis.
News from the Long Blue Line
BIRTHS
MARRIAGES
ASPER
HOTT
GUSKEY
PAXSON
Kevin Asper ’10 and his wife, Amy, welcomed their first child, Elliott Robert Asper, into the world on January 14, 2021.
Matt Hott ’04 and wife, Kimberly, welcomed their third child in September. Pictured are future Bombers Michael ’32 and Andrew ’35 with their new sister, Evelynn.
Zachary Guskey ’11 and wife, Emily, welcomed their first child, Elliot James Guskey, on June 5, 2021.
Nick Paxson ’13 married Elizabeth (Bayer) Paxson on November 14, 2020. Four of his groomsmen were St. X grads. L-R: Nick Paxson ’13, Adam Schupp ’13, Domenic Maricocchi ’16, Teddy Bayer ’18 and Tommy Bayer ’20.
Cornette Joey Jackson Cornette was born on April 10 to Jordan Cornette ’01 and his wife, Shea Peppler Cornette.
IN MEMORIAM 1952 1941 1969 1956 2013 1966 1980 1946 1950 1957 1962 1950 2009 1972 1950 1960
Mr. William BACHER Mr. James BARBARA Mr. Thomas BRIGGER Mr. Martin BROWN Mr. Alexander BURGESS Mr. James COSTELLO Mr. Jerome ELLIG Mr. James FITZPATRICK Mr. Arthur FRIMMING Mr. Jerome FUELL Mr. J. Neal GARDNER Mr. James GILLIGAN Mr. Malick GUISSE Mr. William HALL Mr. Edward HANLEY Mr. Richard HARDING
1974 1951 1963 1945 1960 1950 1983 1950 1979 1954 1957 1975 1968 1974 1963 1948
Mr. Peter HEEKIN Mr. Donald HENGEHOLD Mr. Timothy HICKEY Mr. H. Gerald HOXBY LTC Robert KAMMERER Mr. Robert KENNEY Mr. Scott KINSELLA Mr. Thomas LIPPERT Mr. Gary MATTHEWS Mr. Louis MERSCH Mr. Kenneth MONTGOMERY Mr. Jeffrey MORGAN Mr. Douglas MURPHEY Mr. Timothy NEY Rev. Charles NIEHAUS Mr. B. Vincent PATER
1972 1950 1945 1947 1946 1972 1941 1953 1945 1951 1947 1965 1957 1956 1946
Mr. James PETERS Mr. Richard POLAND Mr. Robert POTTER Mr. Thomas REHME Mr. Clifford ROBSON Mr. Michael SCHEIDLER Mr. Robert SCHOETTINGER Mr. Albert SICKING Mr. Robert STEINKAMP Mr. Ramon STIEF Mr. David STRATMAN Mr. James STROME Mr. J. Michael WAGNER Dr. Henry WEHMAN Mr. James WINTER
CORRECTIONS The photo on Page 14 of the Winter 2021 St. Xavier Magazine was misidentified. Here is the original photo of Mr. Walter Koral on the left, and Mr. John Hussong, pictured right in the 1988 yearbook. Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
23
X-Peditions On the globe, the long blue line is the equator. In St. X parlance, the Long Blue Line of alumni and student body appears all over the globe. Bomber blue turns up all over the map and we want the evidence. Send us your pictures wearing St. Xavier High School gear or hoisting a copy of St. Xavier magazine at an exotic locale or local landmark. Maybe a picture of Bombers at the Pyramids of Egypt or posing at the Pit. Either way, let us know where you’ve been displaying your X pride. Send your high-resolution digital images to egormley@stxavier.org or mail prints to Ellen Gormley c/o St. Xavier magazine, 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45224.
3
1
4 1. Drew Ayers ’19 and Anthony Barnes ’19 were both in Army basic training and Advanced Individualized Training at Ft. Leonard Wood in Missouri. Both are members of the Military Police Corps. 2. Members from the Class of 1978, Brian Barkocy, Brian Reimer, Rich Striebich, and Kevin Kelly, met up at a Reds game this summer. 3. While in Florida for Spring Break, Shaan ’21 and Taj ’23 Ahuja met some alumni from St X. At a restaurant in Redington Shores alums Michael Hussey ’97 and Alex Ramirez ’91 spotted the Bomber spirit wear and said hello! L-R: Michael Hussey ’97, Shaan Ahuja ’21, Taj Ahuja ’23, Alex Ramirez
2
’91 4. Members of the Class of 1968 met up with Fr. Patrick Boyle, SJ during a visit in June in Chicago. Seated: Tom Scheper, Fr. Patrick Boyle, SJ, and Jim Murph. Standing: Bill Farrell, Terry Veith, and Ray Connaughton.
24
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
X-Peditions 1. Pictured is Lieutenant Matt Bult ’15, United States Marine Corps, currently based in Pensacola, FL at the Naval Aviation Schools Command. 2. The Class of 1982 Social Club met for their Annual Retreat at Lake Norris, TN. Front Row kneeling, Left to Right: Brad Blust, Pat Monahan, Mark Jacob, Matt Vehr, Mike Doll, Steve Schaefer Middle Row: Brendan Burns, Nick Aloe, Mike Kelly Back Row: Jonathan Bordeaux, Doug Sammons, Greg Niklas, Dr. Kevin Reilly, Brian Eve (Roger Bacon), Dr. Peter Balash, David Kircher 3. Terry Horan ’69, Cary Horan ’08, Andy Hawking, Parent of two alums, and Jim Herman ’96 in Augusta at the Masters! 4. & 5. Mike Stenger ’79 and his wife, Kathleen, hosted a lunch April 18 to benefit the Natatorium renovation project at their home in Newport. 4: L to R: Mike Bergman ’79, Mike Stenger ’79, Mike Conaton ’81, Mike Chambers ‘79. 5: L to R: JD Stenger ’11, Mike Stenger ’79, Randy Byrd ‘72.
1
2
4
3
5
Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
25
1. Dr. Mitchell McMurray, MD ’12 and Dr. David Minich, MAS, DVM ’11 enjoyed lunch at the Incline Public House. Dr. McMurray is a ’21 graduate of the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine. Dr. Minich is a ’21 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. 2. A group of 2021 Seniors before attending Prom. L to R: Will Weadick, Alex Schimanski, Ethan Gick, Eric Wimmel, Nate Montgomery, Aidan Niehaus, Anthony Chavez, Jack Driehaus, David Turner, Nolan Jewell, Eric Frede and Shaan Ahuja 3. Blake ’16 and Garrett ’18 Litzinger hiked Mt. LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains on May 15, 2021. It was a four-hour hike one vertical mile up to an elevation of 6,593 feet. They spent the night in a cabin atop the mountain and hiked down the following day. 4. Johann Lutmer ’22 and Joseph Lutmer ’80 pictured at The Grand Canyon National Park.
3
1
4
2
26
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
X-Peditions
3
1
3
4
2
1. Bomber Golf Trip to Prattville, AL. From Left to Right Mike Grogan ’01, Jeremie Imbus ’01, Jonathan Cornette ’04, Keith Jackson ’01, Tommy Gruber ’98, Jimmy Gruber ’03 Not pictured: Bobby Gruber ’01, Dave Gruber ’01, Steve Callahan ’01
2. In May, Marc Wolnitzek ’95 took a 23-day, 8850-mile road trip out West - to get to
the 11 states he had never seen before. Details of the trip can be located at mswwestern11.com. Here is Marc displaying his Bomber pride at the Field of Dreams movie set location in Dyersville, Iowa. They built it... 3. In a home sale, gone 100% Bomber - Rick Finn ’88 (left) was listing agent, Nick Motz ’87 (right) was selling agent and Matt Fisher ’88 (center) was the home buyer!
4. Four Vehr brothers, who are all members of the Long Blue Line, spent the weekend at youngest brother Matt’s wholesale nursery,
Colorburst Farm, in Murfreesboro TN, helping with the Spring rush. From left to right: Matt ’82, Greg ’80, Chris ’76 and Nick ’77.
Summer 2021
St. Xavier High School Magazine
27
1. Nick Perrino ’81 was named Affiliate of the Year in the 2020 Circle of Excellence by the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors. Nick is the owner of Prodigy Title. 2. Jack Frient ’24, Drew
X-Peditions
Habegger ’23 and Jack Habegger ’25. Jack is joining his brother Drew this fall. He is looking forward to making new friends and being a part of the Long Blue Line! There are so many opportunities for both academic and spiritual growth at St. X. 3. The St. Xavier Women’s Club spent an afternoon at Rumpke and Vinkolet Winery. In attendance: Cynthia Piening, Julie Strotman-Arzman, Lisa Hoffman, Sally Myers, Amy Thaman, Brenda Kuhr, Judy Neitzke, Christine Neitzke, Barbara Meehan, Eda Perry, Cathy Cionni, and Sandi Cloppert. To become a member of the Women’s Club, contact Barb Meehan or Christine Neitzke at wgomensclub@stxavier.org.
What is up? You can let us know in a variety of ways–send a photo for our X-Peditions feature or tell fellow Bombers about your wedding, a recent move, your latest promotion, a family addition, your retirement or other news via the Alumni X-cerpts pages. Just fill out and send in the form below. We’re looking forward to hearing from you soon. Mail the form to: St. Xavier High School (Magazine), 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, OH 45224 Fax: 513-761-2586 or E-mail: egormley@stxavier.org
Name St. Xavier Class Year Home address
City State
Zip
Home Phone Cell Phone E-mail Address Business Firm Your Position Business Address
City State Work Phone
1
Spouse’s Name Maiden College(s) Attended/Degree(s) Earned Year(s) Graduated News About You
2
28
3
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021
Zip
Calendar
Alumni Gatherings and School Events Summer/Fall 2021
August
October
12 Athletic Hall of Fame 15 Young Alumni Golf Outing - Glenview 18 First Day of School
Alumni Updates for Spring: After a yearlong moratorium on events arising from COVID-19, we are ecstatic to announce that school sanctioned alumni events have resumed! If you, or any of your classmates, are interested in organizing an event, please contact Eric Gammarino ’09 at egammarino@stxavier.org or 513-761-7815 ext. 155.
September
1 1985 Reunion
9 2010 Reunion
1 1980 Reunion
9 2011 Reunion
24 1975 Reunion
1 1991 Reunion
9 1971 Reunion
24 1976 Reunion
1 1961 Reunion
12 President’s Dinner Cintas Center
24 1990 Reunion
2 1985 Reunion
24 1981 Reunion
2 1980 Reunion
25 1975 Reunion
2 1991 Reunion
25 1976 Reunion
2 1961 Reunion
25 1990 Reunion
8 2005 Reunion
25 1981 Reunion
8 2006 Reunion 8 2010 Reunion
20 Alumni Golf Outing ColdStream Country Club 24 Walk4X
22 1995 Reunion 22 1996 Reunion 22 2000 Reunion 22 2001 Reunion 22 1986 Reunion 23 1995 Reunion 23 1996 Reunion
8 2011 Reunion
23 2000 Reunion
8 1971 Reunion
23 2001 Reunion
9 2005 Reunion
23 1986 Reunion
9 2006 Reunion
To our three retiring faculty and staff members, thank you for your service! Your presence has graced the St. Xavier High school community for many years. Who we are has been shaped by the sharing of your knowledge, wisdom, counsel, understanding, and especially your love. The results of your career lives in The Long Blue Line and will long be remembered. You have made a difference. With gratitude and admiration, we celebrate your retirement, hoping you will visit often, knowing you are always welcome back to St. Xavier, your home.
Mrs. Cheryl Asper
Ms. Sylvia Betz
Summer 2021
Mr. Mark Lampe
St. Xavier High School Magazine
29
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage
PAID Cincinnati, Ohio Permit No. 5253
600 W. North Bend Road Cincinnati, OH 45224-1499 www.StXavier.org CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
St. Xavier Athletic Hall of Fame 2021 T H U R S D A Y, A U G U S T 1 2 , 2 0 2 1 7 : 0 0 P. M . TICKETS: https://www.stxavier.org/athletics/halloffame
INDUCTEES: JIM BROWER – SWIM COACH PETER CAROTHERS ’04 – SWIMMING L U K E K U E C H LY ’ 0 9 – F O O T B A L L TIM MAHONEY ’76 – BASKETBALL ANDY WIETMARSCHEN ’01 – CROSS COUNTRY 30
St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2021