GREATER CINCINNATI’S JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL Summer 2 022 THE INAUGURAL FINE ARTS HALL OF FAME theCelebratingINSIDEClassof 2022
On the Camino, it was quickly apparent to me that stopping occasionally to appreciate the journey itself was as important as simply moving forward. At St. Xavier one of the things I most appreciate is my companionship on this journey. I am grateful for all the work of our new principal Mr. Dan Lynch, to the entire Klare family for their leadership with X-Travaganza this year, and for the support of our faculty, staff, parents, and alumni. But as I notice each year, it is the work of our students on the path that helps me realize what really matters. Their determination, grit, and constant love is inspiring.
Tim Reilly ’76 Step by Step I was honored (and more than a little intimidated) to be asked to be a chaperone on the student Camino during this past Easter break. The Camino is a walking pilgrimage to the burial place of the Apostle James, at Santiago de Compostela in Spain. While walking the 77 miles, I was struck that in many ways the journeys of walking the Camino and leading a school year are similar. Both the school year and the Camino require a concentrated focus on preparation, yet the final destination must always be kept in mind. Ready or not, on the first morning on North Bend Road and in Spain, one must just take that first stride and march forward step by step (33,000 steps a day on the Camino!).
I traveled in good company, and the signs were (usually) easy to follow on both the journey through the 2021-2022 school year and on the trek to Santiago de Compostela. A rhythm quickly develops when walking the Camino, but there were times, like Easter morning on the Camino, when I missed the signs on a path and ended up going a few extra miles to get to my destination. In the same way, the continued experience with COVID-19 forced St. Xavier to side-step a little bit and navigate a different path to the end of the year than we had expected, but we kept the destination in mind and our students did not miss one day of in-person instruction, for the second year in a row! On the Camino with a little courage and some amateur Spanish, I was able to get the help needed to get back in the right direction. In similar fashion, multiple individuals, and groups like Board Chair Nick Vehr ’77, all the Board of Trustees and Committee members, Mothers’ Club, Athletic Boosters, Parents Across Cultures, Music Boosters, St. Xavier alumni, faculty, staff, administration, and the Jesuit network gave the school year much appreciated support and direction. This year the Fine Arts Hall of Fame was a journey not yet traveled at St. X, but we followed the signs, and we were able to celebrate eight special members of the long and wide blue line at our inaugural event. One of the most inspiring parts on the Camino happens when you take a turn on the path and are treated to a sweeping view and clearly see exactly where you are going. With the leadership of our Strategic Plan Chairs, Brian Fitzgerald ’91, Gary Gruber ’73, and Ralph Nardini ’77 and many other contributors, our strategic plan is giving us a clear view of where St. Xavier is headed in 2031, the school’s 200th anniversary.
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When we arrived in Santiago in front of the Cathedral, our boys were greeted with rousing applause as they finished their trek, much like at a St. Xavier graduation. It was also inspiring to welcome about 80 members from the Class of 1972 to the graduation of the Class of 2022. On a personal note, these special groups included my oldest brother Tom Reilly ’72 and my youngest nephew Sean Reilly ’22. A classic circle of life moment, Long Blue Line style. We are excited this summer as we anticipate the start of the 2022-2023 school year. Thanks for your support each step of the way! Tim Reilly ’76
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But even when the path is clear, roadblocks can sometimes seem insurmountable if you do not have the resources to reach the goal. When navigating the way to St. Xavier’s 200th anniversary and the ambitious goals of the strategic plan, people like Linda and Harry Fath ’59 step up, and with the transformational gift of $50 million that you read about in the last issue of the magazine get the school to 25% of the $200 million Capital Campaign goal.
Inside this Issue HallFineInaugural12ArtsofFame A celebration of Fine Arts. SpotlightGraduation14 Welcome to the Long Blue Line Class of 2022! Year8 Reviewin Activities and athletics making an impact on students and community.
IsaacAndrewAngeloStephenAnthonyJosephBrianRalphCarsonWayneMwendaJNicholasW.CaraElizabethGraceStevenJohnEricNathanEdmundHeidiChristineClappL.DauenhauerB.EveleighL.FranchiE.GabrielM.Gammarino’09J.GetgeyIIIM.Gonzalez’75E.DeGregorioA.HarrisL.HesterMatthewKeith’93B.Kemper’06KKlaiberMbui’22BoxMillerAndresMoore’22A.Nardini’77S.ReinhartM.PennoE.Schad’81R.Specht’86J.SylvesterE.Sweeny’68M.Watras EDITOR Becky Schulte DESIGNER Jon Enia ’97, makercreative.com PRINTING 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 e-mail:http://www.stxavier.orgbschulte@stxavier.org ALUMNI HOT LINE 1-800-572-5340 ext. 116 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 06 VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 07 LANZIT FAMILY MAKES INCREDIBLE IMPACT 16 PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE 17 STUDENT SPOTLIGHT 18 FROM THE ARCHIVES 19 ALUMNI REFLECTION - STEVE GONZALEZ ’75 20 FACULTY FOCUS 21 ALUMNI X-CERPTS & X-PEDITIONS 25 CALENDAR COVER PHOTO: The Inaugural Class of the St. Xavier Fine Arts Hall of Fame. Pictured left to right: President Tim Reilly ’76, Andy Blankenbuehler ’88, David Quammen ’66, Mary Ann Meyer, Linda (Donahue) Mace, Michele Mascari, Phil DeGreg ’72, Patrick Osborne ’99 and Fr. Michael Sparough SJ. ABOVE PHOTO: The Class of 1972 welcomed the Class of 2022 to the Long Blue Line during the commencement exercises this year. Summer 2022 St. Xavier High School Magazine 1
ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Timothy J. Reilly ’76, President Rev. Walter C. Deye SJ ’66, Rector Mr. Daniel J. Lynch, Principal Mr. Robert G. Bollman ’86, 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. Brian J. Fitzgerald ’91 Mr. Lee P. Geiger ’93 Dr. Colleen M. Hanycz Mrs. Toi C. Jones Rev. Paul A. Lickteig, SJ Mrs. Patricia McAlpine Mr. Adam T. Mueller ’96 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 Rev. Matthew C. Spotts, SJ ’04 Mr. Timothy J. Steigerwald ’83 Mrs. Linnell R. Sullivan Rev. Eric M. Sundrup, SJ Mr. Nicholas J. Vehr ’77 - Chair Mr. Madhu Vrishabhendra Rev. Nathan C. Wendt, SJ CONTRIBUTORS Jody A. Besse Joyce A. Bowman Eric N. Brass Cathy M. Cionni David V.
WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!
The St. Xavier flagship event, X-Travaganza, celebrated its 49th year in 2022. As always, numerous volunteers from the St. Xavier community joined forces to ensure the event’s success. Among them were newcomers, seizing the opportunity to forge a bond with the school, while “veterans” strengthened that bond. Over its history, the school has been grateful to all volunteers who support X-Travaganza, collectively raising millions of dollars to support the school’s educational and formational programs.
X-Travaganza
St.WecampusareXavier
2 St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2022 News and notes around the St. Xavier
2022: Celebrate The Long Blue Line – Our St. X Family
The main event on March 5 was chaired by the Klare Family (Lisa and John ’82, Bob ’83, Karen and Dan ’85 and Susan and Andy ’87), who greeted those attending Celebrate The Long Blue Line – Our St. X Family held in the transformed Berning Gym. While browsing and bidding on hundreds of Silent Auction items (in-person the evening of the event, with a virtual Silent Auction held during the week), guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres as well as purchasing the Drink Raffle, Bourbon Raffle, Reds Raffle and Grab Bag surprises. Fr. Baum SJ led a prayer after the guests were seated. Not delaying one more minute, the Grand Raffle ticket drawing was held for prizes of $5,000, $10,000 and $20,000. As the gourmet meal was served, auctioneer and evening emcee, Mr. Lance Walker, opened the fast-paced Live Auction. It was an unbelievable X-perience, as bidding was constant and ever-increasing for over 30 tempting items. Many items sold for over value, such as the Harley Davidson Street Bob along with beach trips, a trip to Keeneland and Bourbon Trail, to name a few. Through the generosity of the entire St. Xavier community, X-Travaganza 2022 raised more than $1.4 million – an astounding amount - to benefit all St. Xavier students. Thank you to X-Travaganza Director Cathy Cionni and her staff, X-Travaganza 2022 Chairs the Klare Family (Lisa and John ’82, Bob ’83, Karen and Dan ’85 and Susan and Andy ’87) and Opening Party Chairs Jennie and Mike Tiemeyer. The sell-out crowd – many of whom continue to support the event years after their son graduates – contributed to make every activity a fun, community-building event. These volunteers, committee chairs, donors, sponsors, auction bidders, event attendees and other supporters bring the event from the starting gate to the finish line. Through their efforts, proceeds from X-Travaganza’s year-round series of events, auctions and raffles benefit all the young men at St. Xavier.
SAVE DATE FOR THE 50 TH ANNIVERSARY OF X-TRAVAGANZA ON SATURDAY, MARCH 4, 2023!
X-Travaganza 2022 kicked off with its Opening Party: There is No Place Like the St. X Family. Jennie and Mike Tiemeyer chaired the event, held this year in the Ellis Gym on February 25 - a week prior to the auction dinner as a precaution should COVID affect the school. Highlights included a buffet with an array of foods and superb desserts, entertainment by the St. X Jazz Band and X-citing raffles and Silent Auction items. Welcoming parents of the Freshman Class of 2026 to the St. Xavier community were President Tim Reilly ’76 and Principal Dan Lynch, who reinforced St. X’s commitment to the incoming class, the importance of summer study skills classes and early involvement in the numerous activities available at St. X.
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The 12th Annual Taste of Diversity: A Celebration of the Foods, Music, Arts & Cultures of the St. Xavier Community was held this spring. The Diversity Department, Hands Across Campus and Parents Across Cultures collaborated to bring student presentations on cultures and countries, delicious food, and entertaining performances celebrating the diverse cultures in our community to the Ellis Gymnasium for all to enjoy. 2022 St. Xavier High School
THEATRE Frankie Haas - DePaul Matthew Powers - UC CCM Nicholas Feldman - UC CCM Greg LaLonde - Berkeley (California)
Fine Arts Signing
Summer
DaySolar GardenTaste of Diversity
VISUAL Rory Walsh - UC DAAP Andrew Humbert - UC DAAP Sebastian Broadway - Xavier University Doug Thorne Jr. - Tiffin University Rodney Adkins - UC DAAP Jack Wilson - Miami University
FILM/MEDIA PRODUCTION August Rumpke - UC CCM
Engagement Opportunities Increase St. Xavier continues to grow its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion platform with an increased level of engagement opportunities including the department heads and faculty at St. X. One such example is the Fine Arts Department. They wanted to support the DEI vision of diverse engagement and experiences with impactful visuals and displays recognizing culturally relevant artists. Fine Arts Instructor Eric Brass designed posters and displays which highlighted artists, their works and information which was shared in the Fine Arts wing and in the President’s office corridor. This inaugural year featured artists of Native American, Hispanic, and African American culture. This new initiative, in addition to the placards posted throughout the school, announcements during flex period, impactful display cases and guest speakers, has created more education and awareness for all students, and especially for diverse students to see themselves reflected in and around campus. It has also enlightened our faculty, staff, and administration creating openings for more student connections. How ironic that President Reilly overheard a Hispanic parent (outside his office) reaffirm to her son a noteworthy artist they had just been discussing. Whether it’s collaborative teaching with Religion, English or Social Studies; support from College Advising with our HBCU College Fair or continuous Diversity training, St. X’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is visible and evolving.
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MUSIC Aidan Goodwin - Mount St. Joseph John Sebastian - University of Dayton Jackson Hurst - UC CCM Theodore Mechley Jr. - UC CCM David Horsley - Ohio State David Rodell - University of South Carolina
This year the St. Xavier Fine Arts Department honored seniors who are moving on to study a creative field or who will be participating in a performance group, troupe, or choir. Seventeen fine arts students were involved in the signing ceremony.Environmental Action Club and the Environmental /AP Environmental classes were pleased to welcome Monica Niehaus from MELINK solar company to St. Xavier. Monica gave a brief overview of the solar industry and what solar energy would look like on the St. Xavier campus. She presented computer aided drawings and financial details about how solar energy would benefit the St. X community. Students attended a field trip to the Procter and Gamble Winton Hill Facility to tour their brand new on-site urban solar farm which was designed and installed by MELINK. This urban solar farm is only second in size in greater Cincinnati to that of the Cincinnati Zoo! Students learned about P&G and their commitment to becoming a more environmentally friendly company by using renewable energy.
Patrick Ahrens: Soccer - Otterbein University
Eli Kirk: Football - University of Dayton
BiliteracySummitWeek
Thomas Wurzbacher Spanish
PJ McColgan: Lacrosse - Marquette University
Some of the guest speakers included: Honorable Amul Thapar, a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit; John McCarthy ’98 founder of The Purpose Promise, AGI Hospitality Recruiting and At Work on Purpose; Brandon Reynolds ’10 aka “B the Keeper”; Yolanda Carter a Johnson & Johnson executive who also serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees for FOCAS/Lord’s Gym Ministries of greater Cincinnati; and Dr. William Barrett ’78 the Co-Director of the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center.
The biennial Summit week took place in February with dynamic and inspirational speakers. The Summit provides teachers and students an opportunity to explore a common topic both through conversations in the classroom and through organized activities outside of it. The theme of this year’s Summit was Finding Your Path, which takes its lead from Fr. Robert Welsh, SJ, who said, “The purpose of our education is to give a young man the tools whereby he can answer the question, What does God want from me?” Students were asked to prayerfully reflect on that question during the week while considering their present and future paths.
Charles Kellom: Football - University of Akron
Thomas Ryan: Baseball - Michigan State University
Anthony Corrales-Hernandez Spanish Aidan Goodwin Spanish Patrick Heile Spanish Charles Isaac Spanish Andrew Klus Spanish Julian Leon Spanish Jack Louis Spanish Quinlan Martin Spanish Ethan McCoy Portuguese and Spanish Daniel O’Grady Latin Gary Vasquez Spanish
Signing on April 13, 2022
Alex Kemper: Football - Fordham University
Signing on May 18, 2022
Zach Dellerman: Baseball - Clark State Community College
Luke Vrsansky: Lacrosse - Air Force Academy
Zach Beard: Golf - Northern Kentucky University
SigningpartathletestoCongratulationsourstudentthattookinNationalDays!
Max Klare: Football - Purdue University Brady Manahan: Soccer - Transylvania University Brogan McCaughey: Football - Yale University Terrell McFarlin: Football - University of Findlay
Kade Miers: Lacrosse - Illinois Wesleyan University
Marque’ Cummings: Football - Tiffin University
Josh Anderson: Football - University of Dayton Brennan Bareswilt: Football - Centre College
Student Athlete Signing Days
Tanner Creech: Soccer - The Ohio State University
Sean Reilly: Football - Case Western Reserve University
Signing on February 2, 2022
Thirteen St. Xavier seniors received the Ohio Seal of Biliteracy this year, including one student who received the Seal in two languages! The Ohio Seal of Biliteracy program recognizes graduating seniors who demonstrate high levels of proficiency in English and at least one other language. We are so proud of these young men and their accomplishment! Congratulations!
Matthew Carmen-Ugaz Spanish
Jared Littelman: Bowling - Thomas More University
Clayton Wood: Lacrosse - Ohio Wesleyan University 4 St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2022
Jay Farrar: Football - University of Mt. Union
Carter Posey: Soccer - University of Indianapolis Evan Weyler: Baseball - Centre College
LEFT Steering Team student leaders make a big difference!
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U.S. Air Force Academy Cameron Collins and Luke Vrsansky U.S. Military Academy at West Point Jack Louis and Christopher Perera U.S. Naval Academy Tyler Goodall Air Force ROTC Scholarship at Cornell University Charles Isaac
TOP Professionals from a wide variety of functions share experiences at the Business Roundtable event.
Thank you to the thousands of alumni and parents who provided students with experiences beyond the classroom in support of the program over the years. Your generosity to share your time and wisdom has allowed the students to grow and gain real-world experience. As Men and Women for Others, we thank you for playing a vital role in shaping our next generation of St. Xavier leaders. Together we have created a world-class program that is sought after from new St. X families and being replicated in Cincinnati and across the country. The future is bright with innovative plans to bring Career ConneXions to our ~20,000 alumni worldwide in the near future. Click here to view a snapshot of our program and impact report:
Career ConneXions Hits Five-year Milestone!
The conclusion of the 21-22 school year marks a big milestone for the Career ConneXions program – five years strong! The goal of deepening a student’s understanding and learning through hands-on experiences and ‘live’ interactions is as important as ever. The program vision “to connect students with alumni and parents in various professional fields as a means of discerning their passion and area of focus for college degrees and ultimately career choice” remains highly relevant in support of St. Xavier High School’s vision to develop young men who “are prepared to discern and successfully carry out God’s plan for their lives and to serve as leaders in our rapidly changing world.”
Military Signing Day Service to One’s Country Music Fest Since 2016 St. Xavier has recognized a total of 17 Military Academy appointees and 11 ROTC Scholarship recipients. This spring six seniors who are either attending one of the U.S. Military Academies or have received an ROTC Scholarship were honored during a special signing ceremony. This year the Music Fest celebration continued to mark the end of the school year. Music Fest is a tradition at St. Xavier that began in 1986. It was created as a day for the school community to gather and listen to talented student musicians perform on stage. Students hung out with each other while putting their grilling skills to the test! It was a great day to relax and enjoy some good tunes and each other’s company.
Remarkable things are happening here at St. Xavier as we drive towards the school’s 200 th anniversary in 2031.
Our Career ConneXions and Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation programs are making a difference in our students lives and preparing them to make real life choices for when they move beyond our walls. Our students have more choices for community service than ever before, and Principal Dan Lynch and President Tim Reilly ’76 have put together an incredible faculty and staff to guide our students both through academics and with their formation as young men stiving to be Men for Others For members of the Long Blue Line, we will be introducing and incredibly powerful alumni-based platform. This platform will combine the power of our community with technology to connect the more than 20,000 living alumni of St. Xavier across Cincinnati, the United States, and the world. It will empower our alumni to build closer relationships by facilitating conversations and connections. More to come very soon!
Tony Schad Vice President of Advancement
Tony Schad ’81 I am extremely excited to get to the 2022-23 school year. Please do not misinterpret my message. The 2021-22 school year was fantastic in many ways. A big pat on the back should be given to our students for what they achieved in the classroom, on the playing fields, in the arts, through community service and more! A big round of applause should also go to our faculty, staff, coaches, and moderators for being so diligent and inspiring with our students. And I would be incredibly remiss if I did not also applaud the Long Blue Line of St. Xavier for their time, talents, and financial support of our mission. Just look at the recap in this magazine of what transpired over the past year.
So, while being very grateful and proud of what has been accomplished in the last year, I hope you join me in being excited for the new school year and the future of St. Xavier High School. Our students, faculty and staff continue to stand on the shoulders of the Long Blue Line and fully intend to make you proud of this institution and your connection with it as a member of the St. Xavier community!
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the greater glory of God)
INCREDIBLE! With that said, I really am looking forward to the 2022-23 school year. Remarkable things are happening here at St. Xavier as we drive towards the school’s 200th anniversary in 2031. In this magazine you will learn a bit more about our initiatives to fund endowments for tuition assistance as well as for academic, fine arts, athletics, and other co-curricular programs. Coming off a record year, we now prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of X-Travaganza! These initiatives will contribute to our plan to eliminate financial barriers for young men who want and need a St. Xavier education.
Multiple campus improvements are happening over the summer with the sole purpose of supporting the young men entrusted to us, so they have the absolute best opportunity to learn, opportunity to gain experience and the opportunity to grow with a powerful faith-based Jesuit, Catholic education.
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Vice MessagePresident’s
Bill and Amy are the proud parents of three Bomber alumni (Robert ’09, Jacob ’10 and Mitchell ’13) who all had incredibly impactful educational experiences at St. Xavier. In 2015 Bill and Amy established the Lanzit Family Scholarship that supports tuition assistance. After talking with their son, Bobby, who happens to be the freshman volleyball coach at St. X, about the vision of St. X to endow programs, they were intrigued. Bill and Amy were inspired by the vision to a endow program – in this case volleyball - that would allow them to help reduce the cost of tuition while supporting something that makes a difference to them personally. They were also impacted by the message of St. X benefactor Harry Fath ’59 that by starting something they might also inspire others who might want to endow all or part of other departments and programs at St. Xavier. There are many ways to help St. X endow programs and departments. Any area of the school – from academic departments to clubs to teams - can be endowed. This can be done in whole or in part, thus offering many opportunities for donors to support this initiative at the level that is best for them.
If you’d like more information about endowing a program in whole or in part at St. Xavier High School please contact either Tony Schad ’81, Vice President for Advancement, at tschad@stxavier.org or Steve Specht ’86, Director of Endowment Giving, at sspecht@stxavier.org.
High school tuition is a tight pinch for most family budgets, but the education at St. Xavier is invaluable and worth every penny. Our hope is that this gift will inspire others so that more young men have the opportunity to be part of the Long Blue Line . Amy and Bill Lanzit
Summer 2022 St. Xavier High School Magazine 7
The Lanzit Family Endows the St. Xavier Volleyball Program
One of the primary goals of the St. Xavier 200 campaign is to eliminate financial barriers for young men to attend St. Xavier High School. That is the vision of St. Xavier President Tim Reilly ’76 as well as the St. Xavier Board of Trustees. One of the ways to make that goal a reality is to endow academic and co-curricular programs. Endowing a program ensures the life of the program and either eliminates the need for those operating dollars or allows those dollars to be used to strengthen another program. It also connects donors with departments and programs at St. X they are passionate about. That is exactly what happened with Bill and Amy Lanzit.
The Impact of an Endowed Program
Annual Food Drive
The Year in Review Co-Curriculars
Volunteer Programs With an ease in COVID-19 restrictions, community service activities were able to resume in full force. Nearly 1,000 St. X students signed up for year-long volunteer programs where they hung out with kids after school in low-income areas, played games with young adults with developmental disabilities, mentored boys through our Junior Big Brother program, served food to the homeless, improved our city’s nature preserves and much more. We’re so proud of our students being Men for Others! Service & Immersion Mission Trips St. Xavier had a record-breaking year with more than 130 juniors taking a week out of their summer or fall and spending it being in service to others. The bombers helped repair homes in Appalachia, volunteered with organizations aimed at strengthening food security and served those experiencing homelessness while learning more about and seeing firsthand social justice issues facing American life.
In 2021, freshman and sophomore homerooms went door-to-door across the city and collected 67,729 pounds of food to donate to area food banks. Our junior and senior homerooms brought the total to more than 100,000 pounds collected and took their donations directly to local food banks where they learned about hunger issues facing many Cincinnati families.
The concert series continued with a successful Christmas Concert alongside colleagues in Band and Strings, and concluded with a Spring Concert Production Praise and Persistence, in which students performed repertoire surrounding concepts of praising God and staying strong in times of difficulty.
Choir This school year has been nothing short of exceptional for the St. Xavier Choral program. With a reach of 100+ students, the choirs had a year jam-packed with a variety of performances. Their primary concert series brought a Fall Concert titled Opposing Forces: Exploring Conflict and Seeking Harmony This concert program delved into repertoire answering the question “At the resolution of conflict, in what ways do we find harmony?”
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The choirs put much of their focus in the second semester on contest and adjudication. The Choirs entered six events into the OMEA District XIV Solo and Ensemble contest and returned to campus with four “I -Superior” ratings and two “II - Excellent” ratings. A few weeks later, 19 St. Xavier students were accepted into the inaugural Cincinnati Catholic Honor Choir event, in which all Catholic High Schools in the greater Cincinnati area were invited to participate. March brought more successes as both Ensemble X and X-Men travelled to Disney World over Spring Break to compete in Festival Disney. Both choirs came home with Superior ratings, and Ensemble X earned Best in Class, and overall Bronze when considered among all participating choirs. Perhaps the most notable achievement of the year was the Choir’s participation at OMEA Large Group Adjudication. X-Men received a “II – excellent rating” in class C at the district level. Ensemble X earned a “I - Superior” rating at the District Level, qualifying them for State Contest for the first time in school history! Ensemble X travelled to State contest at Lakota East High School on April 30 and returned home AGAIN with a “I – Superior” rating in Class A contest. These musicians put forth tremendous effort into this achievement, and it was well worth it! As we look to next year, the choirs are energized by the current growth in numbers and competitive expectations. Making music in community is a long-standing St. Xavier tradition, and we look forward to the opportunity to uphold the standards of the Long Blue Line.
The 22nd Annual Michael Benson Jazz Festival was held featuring the jazz band, the alumni jazz band, and the Phil DeGreg Trio all performing with the internationally acclaimed tenor saxophonist Harry Allen. It was a huge success.
The concert band received a Superior rating, the highest possible rating and won the Silver Mickey Award for placing second place overall.
Violinist John David Sniegocki ’23 and cellist Elliott Watras ’23 each performed solo pieces in class A and earned a rating of 1. Violinist Jack Cooksey ’22 and violist Ryan Schnitter ’23 each performed solo pieces in class B and earned a rating of 2. During Spring Break, due to COVID restrictions, the Men in Black were required to split into two ensembles as 20 guitar players played Celtic tunes on St. Patrick’s Day on the AdventHealth Waterside Stage in the Disney Marketplace and 20 string players competed and earned a rating of Excellent in the Festival Disney Music Competition. Anthony Dorsey ’24 was recognized as an outstanding soloist with the Men in Black in this competition. This same group of 20 string players also performed at the first ever St. X Fine Arts Hall of Fame. A week after the Fine Arts Hall of Fame, 90 string and guitar players appeared on stage for the Men in Black String Concert in early May. Later in May, a small group of string players and pianist Jude Weatherington ’23 presented music by Bach, Debussy, and Foote for a mid-day recital at St. X. Theatre Xavier Theatre Xavier returned to live audiences and truly brought the talent and flair back to the stage.
The Bomber Bands were very busy this year with many performances and events. The Marching Bombers worked for many hours to prepare for football season and various other events they attend. The Marching Band attended all the Bomber football games supporting the team and performing for pregame and halftime. They continued their annual performance for the Buddy Walk with their guest performance by leading the families through the walk then performing for them at the conclusion of the event. The Marching Band transitioned to the Berning Gym to support and perform for our basketball team for several of the home games.
The fall performance of David Ives’ Lives of the Saints was a hit! The production was described as, “This is not Butler’s stories of the heavenly saints, but rather a comedic, abstract look at everyday stories of daily miracles and the simple saints that invite us to reflect upon our experience. These seven one-acts can confuse and leave questions unresolved, but the tales they portray seek to make life better.”
The Theatre Xavier Spring production of Singin’ In The Rain became one of the best-selling shows in TX history, with multiple performances needing to add chairs in the aisles. Set in Hollywood during the Silent Screen Era, the romantic lead Don Lockwood, struggles to grow and remain relevant as a new fad appears... movies with sound. A spectacle tour-de-force, this show made it really rain onstage and had a singing and dancing cast of 50.
During Spring Break, 107 St. X Strings, Choir, and Band members competed against more than 1,800 students representing thirty programs from across the country at Walt Disney World in Orlando in March. Their results demonstrate the caliber of young men we have, their commitment to excellence and the quality and dedication of our faculty.
St. Xavier English teacher, Sean Cahill ’89 had this enthusiastic endorsement after opening night, “The script demands that the students stretch themselves and they do. To a person, their performances were remarkable. I was especially impressed by the ingenuity and energy behind the acting. The set, lighting, and sound were also perfect. Not a glitch onstage or around it the entire night. Really very impressive. Well done, TX! My family and I had a genuinely good (and thought provoking) time!”
The Jazz Band also performed as a special guest for the First Fine Arts Hall of Fame induction Theceremony.Marching Drumline performed and lead the Cancer Free Kids Butterfly Run/Walk May 21 by performing for the participants as they kicked off the race and then leading the children and their families for the one mile Walk of TheChampions.endofthe year concert was wonderful having featured performances by the Concert Band, the Percussion Ensemble, and the Jazz Band. It was a wonderful way to complete a very successful year. Strings The Men in Black String Ensemble was excited to return to live performances this year and embraced the opportunities fully. Seventy-three string and guitar players appeared on stage for the Fall Strings Concert in September. This group also appeared in collaboration with the bands and choirs for the Christmas concerts in December. Mikey Brands ’22 and JJ Hurst ’22 presented an original electric guitar arrangement of “Santa Clause is Coming to Town” with back up from Elliott Watras ’23 and Henry Murtha ’23 that was very well received by the student body during an all-school Christmas assembly. In January, the OMEA S&E was hosted by Anderson High School and many schools in the Cincinnati area participated. Four of the students from St. X were string students.
Band
The Jazz Band opened the year with an exciting performance at the “President’s Dinner” held at Xavier University. The group played music for the annual Mother’s Day Brunch and for X-Travaganza. They also performed at the Christmas Concert along with the Concert Band, the Choir and the String Ensembles. Four band members auditioned and were selected to the District XIV Honor Band. This is a band comprised of high school students throughout Cincinnati. Alex Geoppinger ’23, Andrew Robinson ’23, Kyle Goertemoeller ’24, and Luke Weintz ’23 were selected to this prestigious ensemble. The band and choir hosted the Cincinnati Catholic Honor Bands clinic and concert in January. Twenty band students were selected to perform.
The Bombers were led by GCL Golfer of the Year, Zackary Beard and GCL Coach of the Year, Alex Kepley.
Soccer This edition of St. X soccer provided a plethora of thrills for Bomber fans throughout the entire year. The Bombers won their 2nd consecutive outright GCL Championship with a record of 5-0-1, extending their unbeaten streak in GCL play to 12 matches. Brian Schaeper, the GCL Coach of the Year, coached this squad to their 5th consecutive district final appearance where they beat Beavercreek in penalties. After a thrilling extra-time victory over Mason in the Regional Semifinals, the Bombers advanced to the Regional Finals against the Centerville Elks where they lost in sudden death penalty kicks to end their season. They finished the 2021 season with a record of 13-3-5, with their only three losses coming to Centerville (twice) and Cleveland St. Ignatius, who is the top-ranked boys’ program nationally, hasn’t lost a match in more than two years and beat Centerville for a state championship. The Bombers were led by super senior Tanner Creech who was not only the GCL Player of the Year, First Team All-Region and First Team AllState, but was also named as a 2021 United Soccer Coaches All-American. Basketball An up and down season for Bomber basketball saw the program finish right above the .500 mark. Due to a bevy of cancellations, the Bombers were only able to get 19 of their allotted 21 games in, finishing 10-9 on the season and 1-5 in GCL play, good for third. Their season ended in the Sectional Quarterfinals to Middletown High School in what proved to be an electric 86-84 shootout. Three senior Bombers saw themselves earn postseason honors as Louie Semona and Jonny Vanover were each named First Team All-GCL and David Clark garnered a Second-Team nod. Bowling The Bowling Bombers rolled into the 2021-2022 season with six returning starters. Led by Senior Jared Littelmann, the Bombers were able to finish second in the GCL with wins at home and on the road over LaSalle and Moeller. The Bombers went 3-1 against the GMC and knocked off Vandalia-Butler in a head-to-head match for the first time since the teams began meeting in 2015. The Bombers racked up Top-5 finishes in the Ohio Kick-Off Tournament, the Holiday Classic, the Private School Challenge, the LaSalle Baker Bash, and at the Sectional Meet. The Bombers returned to districts for 6th time in seven years and finished 13th. Jared Littelmann broke the singleseason record for most pins in a year with 10,786 and finished 4th all-time with 29,356 career pins. Zackary Beard finished his career with 22,026 for 10th all-time. The high game of the year goes to Andrew Berkemeier who shot a 289 against Elder. Jared Littelmann took home the high two-game series of 524 and Jalen Morrow shot the high three-game series at sectionals with a 699. Andrew Berkemeier was voted as rookie of the year, Jalen Morrow took home the Team Impact Award, Allen Rosal was voted the Magis Man of the Year, and Jared Littelmann was voted the Anchor Award recipient. Zack Beard, Jalen Morrow, Chris Obert, Allen Rosal, and Euell Yahonnes received All-Academic Ohio Awards from the Coaches Association. Zack Beard and Jalen Morrow received
Football Following a football season unlike any other, the return of fans in the stands for Bomber football was met with high anticipation from St. Xavier supporters. With stadiums fully open to fans, the program began the season 6-0 and ranked as high as 10th in the country according to MaxPreps. They finished the regular season with an 8-2 mark that included a GCL championship, their 2nd consecutive and 5th in the last seven years. The Bombers dominated GCL play as they went 3-0 throughout the regular season, beating each of the respective foes by at least 33-points in each contest. After two convincing wins to open the playoffs, including a 42-7 romping of GCL foe Elder High School, their season ended at the hands of Lakota West in the Region IV Semifinal by a score of 12-2. That didn’t stop the accolades, however. St. Xavier finished with the GCL Coach of the Year (Steve Specht), Offensive Player of the Year (Brogan McCaughey), seven First Team All-Southwest District selections, four First Team All-State selections, and 10 All-State selections in total.
Athletics In what proved to be a return to normalcy for high school sports across the area, Bomber athletics persevered to victory in the 2021-2022 athletic Withseasons.athletics back in full swing and fans back in the stands, St. Xavier High School athletics excelled once again in the fall athletics season, sweeping the four fall GCL Championships for the second consecutive year. They continued that trend, winning three more GCL titles in swimming, tennis, and track and field across the winter and spring seasons. The St. Xavier Coaches, Athletic Trainers, and Strength and Conditioning staff proved why they are amongst the best in the business as they worked tirelessly to prepare our student-athletes for every obstacle possible. The Bomber community rallied around this group of young men, showing their support every step of the way. With all of that, with the addition of the unwavering support of all the families, administration, faculty, and athletic boosters, this year was truly a team effort! Cross County 2021 saw the Cross Country team extend their dominance in the area despite falling short of their yearly goal to win a state championship. With Bombers littering the leader board, St. Xavier won their 11th consecutive GCL Championship with coach Andy Wietmarschen taking home GCL Coach of the Year honors. They followed that performance up with their 13th consecutive District Championship. After finishing 2nd in a muddy Regional Race, the Bombers ran their way into the state championship where they placed 6th in the state.
The Year in Review
Golf The golf program won their 7th consecutive GCL Championship in record-breaking fashion. The Bombers won all six GCL events by a combined score of 85-strokes, surpassing the previous league mark of 63-strokes that the program set back in 2016. Shortly thereafter, the Bombers moved on to win their 3rd consecutive Sectional Championship with a threestroke victory over GCL foe Elder High School. The championship added to their impressive record of 22 Sectional Championships in the last 42 years. The season came to an end the following weekend as the Bombers missed out on a trip to their 9th consecutive State Tournament by a narrow margin of one-stroke.
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Sophomore Thackston McMullan was named Swimmer of the Year by Swimmeet.com. Gavin Hang was honored as Cincinnati Diver of the Year, joined by head coach Dave Albert as Cincinnati Coach of the Year.
LaVeall Trimble was named 1st Team-All GCL while Luke Conway, Abe Duvall, Ronekol Battle, and Braden Kent were all named to the All-GCL 2nd Team. Trimble, Conway, and Duvall also saw themselves each earn Honorable Mention All-City honors as well.
Wrestling Bomber Wrestling is most certainly on the come up under first year head coach Brandon Dean. While the season ended at the District Meet, the Bombers saw one qualify for the state meet as an alternate. As a program, they saw their All GCL-honorees jump up from two in the 2020-2021 season to five this past season.
Coach Nate Sprong picked up his 150th win in a 20-0 route of Northmont to open the playoffs. In just 10 seasons as head coach, his record is up to 153-65.
Additionally, two Bombers in Luke Vrsansky and Max Bonner were named as USA Lacrosse All-Americans. Rugby First year head coach Mark Weidner took over the rugby program and immediately hit the ground running. The Bombers played a national schedule, taking on some of the best teams in the Midwest, leading them to a 3-8 record on the year. However, program wide, participation is as high as it’s ever been which points to a bright future for the program. The highlight of the season came with a 56-14 victory on Senior Day over fellow Jesuits, St. Louis University High School.
Tennis Playing through a season riddled with poor weather and rain outs, Bomber Tennis persevered to win the GCL for a 54th consecutive season, named six to AllGCL teams, won the GCTCA Coaches’ Classic and sent a doubles team to the state tournament. The duo of Drew Evans and Tucker Berry fell in the second round of the OHSAA, but not before putting together an impressive season for Bomber Tennis. Evans was named the GCL Player of the Year and Berry was named a First Team – Singles participant. Other GCL honors went to the pair of Colin Doerger and Eli Kadakia as First Team – Doubles as well as Mason Rohmiller and Beckett Enscoe as Second Team –Doubles Honors. Track & Field Bomber Track & Field entered the 2022 GCL Championships as the defending champions and left the GCL Championships still as the defending champions. While the meet wasn’t decided until the very last race, the Bombers edged out Moeller by a mere four-points thanks to the 4x400 m relay team’s final push. In total, the Bombers produced nine, including two relay teams, GCL Champions: Terrell McFarlin (High Jump), Drew Williams (Pole Vault), 4x800 Relay (Brendan Krych, Eli Curtis, Alexander Garay, and AJ Graf), Evan Trapp (1600m run), Gavin Pelzel (400m run), Gavin Orth (300m hurdles), Alexander Garay (800m run), Wyatt Houchens (3200m run), and 4x400 Relay (Rylan Earl, Eli Curtis, Gavin Pelzel, and Tyler Goodall). The Bombers had four events qualify for the state meet: Terrell McFarlin, Long Jump; Will Goodrich, 3200 M Run; 4x800 M Relay (Will Goodrich, AJ Graf, Alex Garay, and Evan Trapp); and 4x400 M Relay (Tyler Goodall, Rylan Earl, AJ Graf, Gavin Pelzel). Goodrich placed 6th in the 3200m run and the 4x800m relay team placed 2nd in the state.
Second Team All-GCL awards while Jared Littelmann and Allen Rosal finished First Team in the GCL. Jared Littelmann was voted GCL Athlete of the Year for bowling. He was also named First Team All-City by the Cincinnati Enquirer with Jalen Morrow being named to Second Team. Jared was also named as an Honorable Mention by Cincybowling.com. The Bombers finished the season 11-8 going 6-6 in GCL play. Ice Hockey In just their third season as a member of the vaunted Capital Hockey Conference, Bomber Hockey earned their first promotion into the Championship Bracket of the annual Blue Jackets Cup. In a league comprised of the top hockey programs across the state of Ohio, the Bombers earned themselves a 10-5 conference record and the title of co-champions of the CHC White Division. They ultimately fell to Upper Arlington who wound up as State Semifinalists in the OHSAA Tournament. The Bombers season officially ended with a loss to Thomas Worthington in the OHSAA Tournament. The highlight of the season was unanimously the 4-3 overtime win over the Moeller Crusaders in a game played at the Heritage Bank Center. Head coach Bob Bove was named as the 2021-2022 Cincinnati Hockey Coach of the Year while two Bombers, John Coburn and Luke Vrsansky, were each named as Capital Hockey Conference Honorable Mention selections. Swimming Competing in the newly renovated Keating Natatorium, the St. Xavier Swimming & Diving program added another impressive chapter to its legacy of success. The Long Blue Lane went undefeated in dual meets, placed first at the Mason Invitational, and captured its 38th consecutive Southwest District Class title. When the championship season rolled around the AquaBombers took it up a notch. The team won its 77th (62nd consecutive) GCL crown. At the Fred Cooper Memorial District Invitational, the squad picked up gold in all 11 events. The “men in blue” swam to their 52nd consecutive Cincinnati Sectional victory. At the Southwest Ohio District meet, St. X finished on top for the 59th time (54th consecutive) and qualified 17 athletes for the Ohio State Championship in Canton. In the most closely contested meet since 1957, the AquaBombers were runner-up to Beavercreek, with .07 seconds deciding the ultimate outcome.
Summer 2022 St. Xavier High School Magazine 11
Volleyball Playing in a region that boasted four of the state’s top six programs, Bomber Volleyball battled amongst the cream of the crop all year long. They ended their season with a 15-6 mark and a 4-2 record in GCL play, good for second in the league. They battled Elder not only for the GCL title all year, but for the state’s number one ranking as well. They closed out their season winning seven matches in a row, including five in straight sets, before it came to an end in a five-set Regional Final to Moeller High School, the eventual state champions. The OHSBVA recognized four Bombers as part of their All-South Region Team: Bentley Meyer (First Team), Michael Harmeyer (Second Team), Nick Feldkamp (Honorable Mention), and Reed Terrell (Honorable Mention).
Baseball Bomber Baseball saw their season end in the district quarterfinals in a 1-0 pitchers dual with the Fairfield Indians. The Bombers closed the season 14-12 on the year and 3-6 in GCL play. The two biggest highlights of the season undoubtedly came in a pair of GCL games, early in the season. First, in early April, junior Tommy Googins hit a walk-off to secure a win against the Elder Panthers. Then, later that month, the Bombers took down the nation’s 12th ranked team, the Moeller Crusaders, by a score of 5-4. At the end of the year, the Bombers saw five land on All-GCL teams. Max Klare and Brennan Hileman were both selected as First Team members while Thomas Ryan, Evan Weyler, and Michael Gawkins received Second Team nods. Lacrosse Bomber Lacrosse used one of the toughest schedules across the Midwest to fuel yet another deep playoff run. Entering the playoffs with an 8-8 mark, the Bombers still secured a top-two seed in the 2022 tournament and ended the year top-six in the state of Ohio. They played schools from five different states, as well as one of the top programs in North America in the Hill Academy out of Toronto. All of that propelled a run that saw the Bombers outscore their opponents 70-15 on their way to their fourth consecutive Region IV Championship. The Bombers proceeded to take on Upper Arlington in the state semifinals in a game that needed two days to complete due to weather. Lacrosse ultimately fell 15-9 to an Upper Arlington team who proceeded to win the OHSAA State Championship. The season was still left with many highlights, however.
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’72 - Music Linda (Donahue) Mace - Theatre Michele Mascari - Theatre Mary Ann Meyer - Visual Arts Patrick
’88 - Theatre Phil
Among St. Xavier’s many traditions are the outstanding fine arts programs available to students. Students often go on to have very successful careers in the arts after graduation. St. Xavier faculty often impact these students to help foster their artistic gifts. On April 28, St. Xavier celebrated a few of these individuals with an inaugural Fine Arts Hall of Fame event. The inaugural class of inductees were chosen because of their contributions and accomplishments in theater, music, writing, and visual arts. The class includes: Blankenbuehler DeGreg Osborne Sparough SJ Theatre Scan the above code to view more photos, inductee introduction videos and a video recording of the event. If you would like to support the arts or nominate someone for the next Fine Arts Hall of Fame event, the nomination form can also be found on this page. you to the inductees and everyone who made the event a huge success!
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InducteesStar-StuddedHallFineInauguralArtsofFameEveningCelebratestheInauguralfortheFineArtsHallofFame
Andy
’99 - Theatre David Quammen ’66 - Literature Michael
Thank
Summer 2022 St. Xavier High School Magazine 13
Principal Daniel J. Lynch 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, All for the Greater Glory of God. President Timothy J. Reilly ’76 delivered the invocation. On behalf of the class, Ryan Michael King ’22 reflected on his personal experience as a member of the Class of 2022 and how they have grown together into Xavier men. He encouraged his classmates to “Go, and set the world on fire.” The commencement address was given by ESPN host and analyst, Jordan Cornette ’01. His remarks reminded the graduates of how important it is to continue their connections with their classmates following graduation “for we are stronger together than we are alone”.
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On May 26, the Class of 2022 was welcomed into the Long Blue Line of St. Xavier alumni. The 346 young men ceremoniously followed the members of the Class of 1972 into the Cintas Center for the graduation ceremony upholding the tradition of the 50-year anniversary class leading the procession.
Graduation
Academic Awards 2022 The J. Harold Kotte, M.D. Biology Award Aarav Kukreja The Donald N. Berning, M.D. ’38 Chemistry Award Noah Jonathan Burkhardt The Peter A. Horan ’00 English Award Nolan Scott Haley Chinese William Thomas Keenan Community Service Ryan John Brunner Computer Science John Clement Sikora III French Julian Leon German Tobin Charles Rainey Health/Physical Education Maxwell Ignatius Klare Latin Daniel Michael O’Grady Mathematics Dominic Michael Olaguera-Delogu Music Theodore Richard Mechley Jr. Physics Dominic Michael Olaguera-Delogu Religion Cole John Kendall Social Studies Jack William Cooksey Spanish Ethan Andrew McCoy Theater Matthew William Haas Visual Arts William Rory Walsh Graduation Awards Senior Scholar Award Dominic Michael Olaguera-Delogu Rev. Joseph Brennan, S.J. Award Carter Evan O’Daniel St. Francis Xavier Service Award Andrew James Klus Dr. Charles Farrell Memorial Leadership Award Mihir Joseph Sinhasan Jesuit Schools Network Award Seth Stuart Engelhardt Summer 2022 St. Xavier High School Magazine 15
MessagePrincipal’s
• 13 faculty and staff members will travel to Loyola Marymount University with me at the end of June to meet up with representatives from the other 55 Jesuit secondary schools in North America to exchange best practices in Jesuit education.
• 15 faculty and staff members will be traveling with Fr. Rick Millbourn and Walking the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago de Compostela) in Northern Spain.
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This summer, the adults in the building will be taking part in a myriad of activities to renew themselves intellectually and spiritually including:
Intellectually Competent and Committed to Doing Justice) are developed and strengthened through these efforts.
Co-curriculars remain a constant source for growth and development for the students. In the fine arts, Ensemble-X earned the highest rankings possible at both the state level competition and at the prestigious national event held in Walt Disney World, and terrific performances took place highlighted by the production of Singin’ in the Rain, the Michael Benson Jazz Festival, and a fabulous art exhibition in the Walter C. Deye, SJ Performing Arts Center. This spring, the school inducted its first ever class into the Fine Arts Hall of Fame and held the first ever signing ceremony for those 17 seniors continuing in fine arts at the collegiate level. And on the athletic fields, our sports teams performed admirably and, once again, retained the GCL South All Sports Trophy.
• Multiple other faculty members will be participating in the grading of AP exams, attending AP workshops, or taking graduate courses. At St. Xavier we strive to be the best at getting better and each of these activities provide the faculty and staff different ways to come back in August prepared to embark on an even better school year than the one DanAMDG,before. At the heart of a St. Xavier education is scholarship and relationship.
At the heart of a St. Xavier education is scholarship and relationship. Throughout the 21-22 school year, the focus has been on re-establishing those two foci as we learn to adapt to the new normal following the peak of the pandemic. Academically, the impact of the pandemic, especially on our freshmen this past year, was significant. Adapting to St. X standards is challenging for any incoming freshman class, but it was significantly more so for this class as many of them came to St. Xavier after five quarters of only experiencing virtual or hybrid instruction. St. Xavier trains its teachers to follow the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm of Context, Experience, Reflection, Action and Evaluation in developing class lessons. The context of the collective students in each class was different than typical years and because of that reality, our teaching and initial expectations needed to be modified. Both the teachers and students rose to the challenge and by the conclusion of the year, students are approaching the level of scholarship expected from a St. Xavier education. St. Xavier has always been the premier college preparatory school for boys in Cincinnati and never has that been more evident than in this past school year. Beyond scholarship, the pandemic has also thwarted the development of sustained and meaningful relationships for our students. Quarantining, masking, and distancing were all measures put in place to keep us safe. But while they may have flattened the curve, they also did immeasurable damage to our ability to connect with each other. Much of our focus of this year has been on re-establishing those relationships with each other and with God. Retreats and service opportunities ran throughout the 20-21 school year with safety measures in place. But this year, these experiences were able to return closer to the pre-pandemic dynamic form and, in some cases, like the newly established Emmaus Retreat for freshmen, they developed more fully than ever before. The Graduate at Graduation principles (Open to Growth, Loving, Religious,
• 16 faculty and staff members will be leading the juniors on their summer mission trips.
Over the past four years Mwenda was part of the Career ConneXions Steering Team, Fair Trade Club President, Math Club Team Captain, Varsity Basketball and Varsity Water Polo player, Senior Class Chairman, Peer Tutor, Saturday morning service participant, National Honors Society Secretary, Admission Core Team Member, Senior Homeroom Leader, Freshman Retreat Leader and Kairos Rector. Carson participated in Cross Country, Marine Biology Club, Ensemble X and X-Men, Liturgical Music, X-ACT, Community Service, Career ConneXions and was a Senior Advancement Chairman, Servant Leader for the Center of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Bomber Brew Team Member, Freshman Homeroom Leader (Bomber Pilot), and Emmaus retreat leader. Mwenda is attending the Georgia Institute of Technology as a Stamps President’s scholar majoring in computer science and finance and Carson is headed to Vanderbilt University, where he will be studying Human and Organizational Development.
MM: My favorite memories at St. X are a conglomeration of all the random moments my friends and I spent together. Often after long hours spent working on projects or preparing for tests and exams, my friends and I would simply talk into the early hours of the morning, discussing everything from our shared hatred of rhetorical analyses to our life aspirations and our plans for lunch tomorrow. Similarly, the fall nights spent huddled together as we pretended not to be cold (despite the thirty-degree windchill and our lack of shirts), the moments after basketball games where I would join arms with my teammates and classmates alike to sing our Alma Mater, the grueling off season workouts for both Water Polo and Basketball where my teammates and I would contemplate our passion for our sports, and the countless meals shared in the cafeteria and the Winton Skyline are some of my fondest memories.
Carson Moore and Mwenda Mbui
MM: The St. Xavier Advantage lies solely in the people who make this institution special. During my four years at St. X, I have been truly amazed by how cohesive and accepting the Bomber family is. From my first day as a freshman when I was welcomed by my Senior water polo teammates, to the support and individual care shown by my teachers, the countless alumni who were eager to serve as professional mentors, and the recent graduates who were willing to aid me in the college admissions process, St. X is full of talented and altruistic individuals whose sole intent is benefiting current students. This unique and uplifting environment provided me the support and model required to facilitate growth in all aspects of my life. It has truly been an honor and a privilege to have attended St. Xavier High School, and I am excited for the opportunity to be a member of the Long Blue Line and utilize my skills to aid the development of the future classes of Bombers.
What is your favorite memory/experience at St. X?
CM: I would say that the biggest difference I notice in myself is that I have gained a greater confidence in myself and my abilities. Through stepping out of my comfort zone and participating in extracurricular activities I may not otherwise have been a part of, I now realize that I am able to tackle challenges and successfully overcome them while continuing to learn in the process.
Why did you choose to attend St. X? Do you have any other family members that attended?
I learned that achievement is not contingent on talent but instead controlled by diligence, commitment, and hard work.
MM: The past four years at St. X have allowed me to grow in several ways I would have never imagined. To begin, I feel as if I have developed a strong understanding of the general skills required for success. Through the rigor of academics and participation in extracurricular activities, I developed the ability to design and implement a productive schedule, communicate with others efficiently, and resolve most issues I encounter on my own. Additionally, these past four years have been a time of great personal discovery in all facets of my life. Through retreats and four years of religious education, I leave St. X with a much stronger understanding of my own faith. Similarly, through my participation in extracurricular activities I discovered the joy of utilizing my academic gifts to help others as a peer tutor, as well as my avid interest in computer science. Most importantly, having completed four challenging years at St. Xavier High School, I leave with a sense of confidence that my freshman self did not have. My time at St. X taught me that I possess the intellect and all other qualities necessary for success.
How are you different now than when you were a freshman?
MM: My path to becoming a Bomber was somewhat unique. My family and I moved to Cincinnati roughly four years before I began high school. Due to our lack of familiarity with the area and St. X High School, I never really considered attending. In the fall of eighth grade as seemingly all my close friends chose to attend St. X, I suddenly developed an avid interest in the school and asked my parents if they would be willing to send me to a private school. Because of my efforts and numerous conversations with faculty and current parents, I finally convinced Mom and Dad to make me a Bomber.
SpotlightStudent
Seniors Mwenda Mbui and Carson Moore truly embody the Graduate at Graduation. The past four years they have shared their gifts with the St. Xavier community. We are sure they will continue to go forth and set the world on fire!
Summer 2022 St. Xavier High School Magazine 17
CM: It is the opportunity to become a part of a diverse and distinctive brotherhood of men that not only stretches nationwide but across the globe. You are immediately welcomed by thousands of fellow Bombers who are always willing to extend a helping hand in any way possible. Through talking to both current students and alumni, I have always noticed how much they cherish the unique experiences they have had as a result of the St. Xavier Advantage.
CM: When I visited St. X, I noticed that there was an atmosphere of continually striving for success and the Magis. Whether it be the faculty or students, each person is using their gifts and talents to better both themselves and others. My other family members that attended/attend St. X include uncles George Beluan ’91, Gerry Beluan ’86, Sean Kelley ’83, and Steve Caruso ’83 as well as cousins Noah Kelley ’14, Aidan Kelley ’16, Harris Caruso ’21, Andy Beluan ’22, Juan Chuegan ’22, Weston Caruso ’24, and Brendan Beluan ’25.
What is the St. Xavier Advantage?
CM: It is most definitely when I had the opportunity to speak to the incoming parents and students of the Class of 2026. Since I am always busy with academics and other commitments, I rarely have an extended period of time dedicated for inner reflection. When I wrote the speech that I ultimately gave at the event, I was able to reflect on the aspects of my St. X career that I felt were most valuable and worthwhile. I am extremely grateful that I could share those pieces of advice to inspire them to make the most of their time at St. X.
And to the best of our knowledge, no other secret society has ever existed at St. Xavier. At least one that we know of… Contributed in a most surreptitious manner, by His Most Profound Profundity, the Official Scribe of the Archives Dedicated in loving memory to Karl Hauck, longtime St. X history teacher and archivist.
In most ways, the 1930 XRay is like any other St. Xavier yearbook. It contains a wide variety of images and information about faculty members, students, clubs, activities, and athletic competitions. But seventy pages in, nestled between the Library Association and Dramatics, there is a page unlike any other, detailing a group unlike any other: a secret society referred to as The Cabalistic and Clandestine Order of Xettres. There are no photographs, and there are no names. In fact, the page is mostly blank, except for three very small paragraphs which we are told were “contributed in a most surreptitious manner” by “His Most Profound Profundity, the Official Scribe of the Order.” A few illuminating details are Theprovided:firstsecret society ever organized at St. Xavier High School held its first meeting sometime during the month of April in the year 1930. This highly honored society is composed of the most active students throughout the school . . . Meetings are held in secret, and the business carried on is not published. The number of members, which, by the way, is exceedingly small, as well as the names of the members are withheld from the knowledge of the student body in general. The glamour of the secret society is expected to encourage all students to try to gain admission.
Ambrose
But then a chance discovery in the archives earlier this year changed everything: a Class of 1930 newsletter from December 3, 1996 divulged the secrets of the Order. John ‘Jack’ Brink ’30, editor for the XRay, recalled the following: To begin with, it was not a hoax or intellectual spoof . . . In April 1930, Mr. McGinnis S.J. called together a bunch of [students] into a hush hush meeting on the 4th floor of old St. X Hi . . . He outlined plans to form this esoteric society of high achievers based on extracurricular activity points . . . [and] was never specific about the club mission or activity beyond that stated on page 70. To the best of my memory, we met only two or three times in April and May 1930. Our only accomplishment was discussion of details in producing a written constitution and bylaws.
'31 James
SJ
'30 Robert
'30
True to their word, no membership lists or meeting minutes were ever kept. Aside from being mentioned in the 1930 yearbook, no other school publication even mentions the Society’s existence. Was it real? Or perhaps a clever ruse? It appeared as if the story behind this enigmatic and mysterious group would forever remain a secret, lost to history.
excerpts from the ARCHIVES 18 St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2022
Robert Buchert ‘30, another member, explained the strange name, Xettres: “It is Latin and translates X (ten) et (and) tres (three),” or thirteen, the original number of founding members: five seniors, four juniors, and four sophomores. It was as simple as that.
So, what ever happened to the Cabalistic and Clandestine Order of Xettres? Shortly after the end of the 1930 school year James McGinnis S.J. left St. Xavier to continue his studies for ordination, and without his guidance and leadership, the fledgling secret society dissipated. Five of the original thirteen members graduated, and the Order was not resuscitated the following year.
Fr. McGinnis S.J. later went on to serve with distinction as an army chaplain in the Pacific during World War II. Following his return, he founded the Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House just outside of Chicago, which is still thriving to this day.
Nicholas Kemper '06 Lindhorst McGinnis, John Brink Buchert
Program’sFoundationDoyleSeedlingNewestMember:
GonzalezSteve’75
ReflectionsAlumni
Why are you establishing a scholarship at St. Xavier through the Doyle Seedling Program and honoring your Father through the scholarship?
The Doyle Family Foundation Seedling Program has been established to raise awareness about the vital importance of scholarship endowment at St. Xavier High School by recognizing those who establish new endowed scholarship funds or expand existing ones. An individual, family or group makes an agreed-upon pledge over a period of years to establish or expand an endowed scholarship fund. Once this pledge has been formalized, the Doyle Family Foundation contributes an agreed-upon matching gift to the individual’s scholarship fund.
What path after St. X brought you to where you are today?
After graduation from St. X I attended the University of Cincinnati and then Case Western Reserve University Law School. During those years I continued to receive indispensable advice and counsel from St. X graduates, such as attorney William Busemeyer ’58, who helped me tremendously on my path to law school. Help from Jesuit school graduates (not only from St. X but also from other Jesuit schools) has been integral to me. After law school I was licensed in Texas and started learning trial law with a personal injury firm in Houston. I practiced in Houston until the early 1990’s, when I opened a law office in the Rio Grande Valley, in a town named McAllen. I now enter my 40th year of practice there. How do you feel about the St. X of today, as you have come to know it? I am proud to be a St. X graduate. Although I have not lived in Cincinnati since 1979, I have maintained contact through the years with St. X students, graduates and faculty. We have hosted St. X students passing through South Texas (and my brother Luis ’74 has hosted groups passing through Arizona) on Mission Trips, where they perform service by building living structures for the poor in Mexico. I have received letters from St. X students expressing their gratitude for the privilege of attending St. X. I see St. Xavier students and graduates acting as “Men For Others,” helping those unable to help themselves. Just review the St. Xavier 2022 Senior Graduation Profile and you will be impressed by the academic accomplishments of this year’s graduating class. I am always gratified being brought up to date on St. X successes during alumni events in Houston and Phoenix. Extreme measures were undertaken to ensure teaching excellence and safety during the Covid pandemic. To me, St. X is very definitely headed in the right direction.
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What I remember most are the faculty, the Jesuits and the students from all parts of the city and nearby states. I’m sure most of my fellow 1975 graduates remember the names of their instructors and have vivid memories of classroom episodes that they will never forget. Messrs. Ballaban, Berning, Dilg, Hext, Meyer, Piening, Fr. Middendorf, SJ, and many others were masters at dispensing both discipline and reward. I was recently reminded of the sign behind Tom Meyer’s desk that read: “Hardball played here” and his famous line after every all-school Mass: “Take your program, fold it up… and put it in your pocket!” The Jesuit faculty were different from my prior Catholic experience. They offered face-to-face confession, something unheard of in those days. Theology classes were unconventional, which made theology more interesting to me. The Milford retreats were enriching and I looked forward to them. At St. X I was introduced to students from the West side, East side, Northern Kentucky and even Indiana. At first, we huddled with the group of kids from our parish, but by the time of graduation we developed friendships with peer groups from all over. I had a great experience at St. X.
Can you tell us about your St. X experience as a student?
I honor my father as a matter of respect and gratitude for everything he did for me and countless others. My father grew up poor on the Mexican border in South Texas. His parents did not speak English. Both of his parents were deceased by the time he was 15 years old. Despite these obstacles, he graduated from the University of Texas Medical School and was trained as a vascular/thoracic surgeon at Cincinnati General Hospital. He performed thousands of surgeries in Cincinnati, saving and improving many, many lives. He was from Texas, but he believed in St. X. The Doyle Seedling Program aligned with my goals and focused my attention on the importance of scholarships at St. Xavier. It is my hope that this scholarship will help young men obtain the benefits of a St. X education. I have never once questioned my decision to attend St. X. I believe in Jesuit education (my grandson, Kaleo Guerrero, is enrolled at Strake Jesuit in Houston), and I would like others to have the same opportunity.
The Doyle Family Foundation has invested approximately $1.6 million in named endowed scholarships, resulting in more than $15 million in new and expanded endowed scholarships for the students of St. Xavier High School. Please consider planting your own “Seedling” that will impact current and future Bombers. For more information on the Doyle Seedling Program, please contact Tony Schad at tschad@stxavier.org or by phone at 513.618.3220.
John Getgey joined St. Xavier in the Religion Department four years ago after working for years as a clinical social worker providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents and families. He has a master’s degree in theology from Xavier and now teaches sophomores and juniors. John has been married to his best friend, Amy, for 33 years. Together they have four children, Lauren, Parker ’18, Andrew and Mollie. (And his children would definitely want a shout out to their dog, Lilly Sugar a pure-bred English Bulldog.)
I cannot think of a more important thing to do than assist in the formation of boys becoming young men. It is truly amazing to witness the transformation that takes place over these four years at St. Xavier. Last year, as a part of my third year Ignatian Formation group, we were fortunate to follow a student to all of his classes and activities for a day. As I went to each class, to lunch, to free bell; I became fully aware of why St. Xavier students truly are extraordinary. The five characteristics of Grad at Grad, as well as cura personalis, and being Men for Others are taught and lived out all over campus. It was an honor to watch teachers from other disciplines incorporate these important concepts to the students. The faculty here at St. Xavier is incredible.
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I thank God all the time for getting this opportunity to teach and coach. It helps to have great mentors like Jim Telles and Paul Rieselman. I have learned to be flexible with my daily lesson plans. The Holy Spirit moves a classroom in a certain direction, and you must adjust and let the goodness of a conversation play out. One main goal is to help each student find their voice.
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Why did you decide to bring your gifts to St. Xavier?
As a teacher of both sophomores and juniors, I have been able to see the transformational changes of boys into responsible, good, young men. I was blessed to be able to lead a group of seniors in their exit interviews. I was struck by the level of intellectual competence, love they had for each other, and their ability to think about important issues that are greater than themselves. It was a confirmation of what we are doing here at St. Xavier. God is truly in all things. We don’t just talk about being a Man for Others; we teach it in everything we do. We allow each young man to find their voice, we honor their goodness, and we create a safe environment for them to ask questions, to get out of their comfort zone and to discern the path they desire for themselves. We allow each student to become an authentic, confident Man for Others. Each student, teacher, coach and administrator realize that there is something far greater than anything we accomplish here at St. Xavier. We do all of this for the greater glory of God.
I am also thankful to be part of the St. Xavier football program at the freshman level. I have been coaching the wide receivers for the past three seasons. The freshman staff of Telles, Schad, the Nardini brothers, Brichler, O’Toole, and Lyle are second to none. I am blessed to be part of it. I have just finished reading a book called a Season of Life. The book is about a high school football season and the many trials and tribulations a team can go through. What resonated throughout the book are the key concepts of being a good coach.
What is the most rewarding thing about being part of the St. Xavier community?
I also love that it is cool to be smart at St. X. There is a concept I really try to instill in all of my students. You are never alone. God is always with you. Your teachers, coaches, teammates, friends, club members etc. are all with you. St. Xavier is a community that exhibits support, love and hospitality that is real and makes an incredible difference in the lives of our students.
What is so special about St. Xavier?
The appreciation of honoring the unique and varied gifts and talents of all our students. I attended Singing in the Rain this spring. What a delight to watch students I taught in class reveal such incredible talent. I am constantly amazed at how talented and gifted our students are at St. Xavier.
St. Xavier also helps students who are trying to find their joys, skills, and talents. There are over 100 clubs and groups that each student can choose to get involved. St. Xavier teaches life skills in high school. So many times, a student has one door close on something and finds five more doors that open to something even better.
Finally, leaders walk the hallways of St Xavier. From Mr. Reilly to administration, faculty, grounds crew, all staff of the high school, coaches, volunteers, and obviously the students. The characteristic of being a leader is instilled and practiced every day.
X-tra Notes (anything else we should know about you?)
Teaching a young man how to be a better person, someone who will grow up to be a good friend, a good son, a good brother, a good husband, a good co-worker, a good leader; these are the important opportunities a coach has to impact a young man.
Another special thing about St. Xavier is the importance of setting up all activities in an environment of support, inclusion, and respect for difference.
Sean Cahill ‘89 booksecondpublishedrecentlyhischildren’sGigglesworth: The Boy Wouldn’tWhoLaugh, with illustrations by Armstrong.Dave Major James G. Flick, III (Trey) ’04, having completed 12 years of Air Force service, has recently separated from the active military. Trey has accepted a pilot’s position with Delta Air Lines. He will be based in New York flying Boeing 737-800’s. A graduate of the Air Force Academy, he will continue to serve in the Air Force Reserve at Travis Air Force Base in California. Trey is the son of James Flick ’65 and wife Peggy of East Walnut Hills. François López-Ferrer ’08 is the Assistant Conductor for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and May Festival. Alumni golfer Joey McCarthy ’17 qualified for the PGA Canadian Tour. Joey was a standout player at X as well as in college at University of Cincinnati.
Robert M. Deiters, SJ ’42 celebrated his 97th birthday from his home in Tokyo, Japan after years of study at Loyola (Chicago), Marquette University and Tokyo University (PhD Engineering).
Keith O’Brien ’91 recently released his fourth book Paradise Falls. The book tells the story of human drama behind one of the landmark environmental crises of the 20th century. You can find more information about Keith and his book at www.KeithOB.com. Mark Schulte ’95 was elected to a four-year term as Miami Township Trustee (Clermont County). Dr. James E. Menkhaus ’99 published his first book Immersion: A Pilgrimage into Service
Mark Kitrick ’73, has been named the recipient of The Harry M. Philo Award by the American Association for Justice (AAJ). The award is a national award that recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the civil justice system and whose work has advanced the safety and protection of American consumers. Mark will received the award at the AAJ national convention in Seattle in July.
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Michael Cooper, SJ ’62 is the Founder and CEO of the Arrupe Spirituality Digital Community [arrupespirituality.org]. ASDP is an on-line center of Ignatian Spirituality. Presently, they offer the “Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius in Everyday Life”. They also have Mass every week on zoom as well as a book club. For more information, contact Michael at michael.cooperinfl@gmail.com.
Michael Berding ’87 After eight years on Fairfield City Schools and Butler Tech Boards of Education, Michael Berding ’87 was elected as Fairfield Township Trustee in November 2021. 40’s 80’s cont’d
Dr. Robert Pettit ’06 has been hired by Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, one of the region’s largest independent physician groups.
Class of ’87 1987 St. Xavier graduates John Ravenna, Chip Moellering and Andy Klare went on to Boston College where they met and graduated in 1991 with Judge Amul Thapar. The three Bombers welcomed Judge Thapar to their Alma Mater to be the Keynote Speaker for Ignatian Summit Week on February 7, 2022. L-R: John Ravenna, Judge Amu Thapar, Chip Moellering, and Andy Klare.
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PERME Tom Schick ’58 celebrated at the wedding of his grandniece Maggie Perme’s wedding reception on January 8. Some of the other Bombers include AdamgrandnephewhisKlus’22; SeanhisRichnephew-by-marriagehisKlus’86;andgrandnephewPerme’14.
News from the Long Blue Line IN MEMORIAM 2020 Mr. Kyran BARNES 1952 Col. Harold BAUMEISTER 1976 Mr. Eric BEGEHR 1995 Mr. Scott BERGER 1974 Mr. Edward BERKEMEYER 1951 Mr. Frederick BOERGER 1963 Mr. Gerald BREEN 1963 Mr. George CLARK 1956 Mr. William CONGER 1952 Mr. George CORRIDAN 1983 Mr. Joseph DIERKER 1974 Mr. Gregory DOERING 1985 Mr. Kevin DONOVAN 1956 Mr. James EICHELBERGER 1959 Mr. Richard ELMLINGER 1949 Mr. Andrew EVANS 1947 Mr. Richard FEDERLE 1957 Mr. Alex FREIHOFER 1963 Mr. Thomas GELLENBECK 1953 Mr. Paul GOSIGER 1972 Mr. John GREIVENKAMP 1956 Mr. Jerry HEISELMAN 1992 Mr. Nicholas HERBERS 2000 Mr. Peter HORAN 1952 Mr. Donald ISPHORDING 1947 Mr. James KOLKER 1958 Mr. Anthony KRALLMAN 1950 Mr. Richard KUCHLE 1957 Mr. Jerome LAMPE 1971 Mr. Douglas LANGE 1966 Mr. Thomas MACK 1962 Mr. J. Michael MERETTA 1961 Dr. William MONNIG 1962 Dr. J. Patrick MOONEY 1961 Mr. Richard NABERHAUS 1951 Mr. Donald NIEHAUS 1964 Mr. Hubert OSTMANN 1948 Mr. Charles PAQUETTE 1964 Mr. William PEAKE 1961 Rev. Chad PUTHOFF 1978 Mr. Brian REIMER 1964 Dr. Terrence SCAHILL 1970 Mr. James SCHEIDLER 1958 Mr. Carl SCHLOTMAN 1961 Mr. Thomas SCHNEIDER 1955 Mr. Stephen SCHULTZ 1948 Mr. Edward SEXTON 2012 Mr. Paul SWANSON 1972 Mr. Anthony TOTH 1954 Mr. Charles TRAYLOR 1965 Mr. Geoffrey TRIBBE 1966 Mr. Lawrence WATKINS 1994 Mr. Benjamin ZELLER 22 St. Xavier High School Magazine Summer 2022
MOLONY Ryan Molony ’14 celebrated his marriage the weekend of May 21 with many fellow Bombers. Included in this photo: His grandfather Michael Mullane ’55 and Bill Mulvihill ’65 St. Xavier faculty included Don DiGiacomo, Ron Weisbrod and former staff member Ron Hatten. SMITH Colin Smith ’14 wed Allison (Allie) Marie Brooks in February in Nashville, Tenn. St X Class of 2014 was well represented. Bombers from Left to Right are: Lou Whelan ’14, Matt Kittell ’14, Peter Garvin ’14, Ryan Gilligan ’14, Trevor Bechtold ’14, Michael Misleh ’14, Ryan Molony ’14, Carson Curry ’14, Colin Smith ’14. TAPPEL Several members of the Class of 2013 recently gathered to celebrate the marriage of Tom and Lauren Tappel. Pictured left to right: Will Rinaldi, John Broderick, Tom and Lauren Tappel, Bryan Barrett, and Jack Delisio.
ANGELINEMARRIAGES Jeff Angeline ’85, married Heather McBeath Angeline on 1/12/22.
JONES Celebrating the marriage of Connor Jones ’14 were (L-R): JP Burleigh ’14, John Kelly ’14, Blaise Jones ’10, Matt Wall ’14, Brien Dulle ’08, Sean Perme ’14, Connor Jones ’14, Tom Compton ’73, Cameron Laatsch ’14, Shawn Murphy ’14, Dakota Stephens ’14, Kyle Jung ’14, Jack Paulsen ’14, and Mike Dulle ’82.
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1. 1982 Social Club annual retreat, Lake Norris, TN. 1st Row L-R: Michael Doll, Mark Jacob, Nick Aloe, Mike Kelly, Joe Dusa and Peter Allison. 2nd Row L-R: Brendan Burns, Greg Niklas, Doug Sammons, Greg Dittrich, Peter Balash, Dr. Kevin Reilly, Brian Eve (Roger Bacon), Bob Dehnor (Roger Bacon) and Jonathan Bordeaux. 2. Diego Beeker ’16 and Andrew Geraghty ’18 on a sunny/rainy day on the beach in Ft. Myers, Florida. 3. Joseph Dressman ’23 and Andrew Gillespie ’25 enjoy the beautiful island of Belize- Ambergris Caye- March 2022 spring break. 4. Team doctors for the Cincinnati Bengals and Bombers for life- Kevin Reilly ’82, Brian Grawe ’00, Ed Jung ’80 and Bret Betz ’03 at the walk through the day before the Super Bowl at SoFi Stadium. 5. These lucky Bombers witnessed the Bengals win their first playoff win in 31 years! Macen Hall ’24, Gage Patrick ’24 and Cole Harris ’24 attended the AFC Wild Card Playoff Game in January at Paul Brown Stadium. 6. Twenty-five alumni and friends participated in the 7th annual Dallas Alumni Golf Outing on April 3 at Firewheel Golf Park.
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 bdevenney@stxavier.org or submit images online at www.stxavier.org/xpeditions.
X-Peditions
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1. Jay Schuermann ’68 with LTJG Charlie O’Brien on the Air Craft Carrier USS Nimitz CVN 68 100 miles off shore in the Pacific Ocean where they were “trapped” when they landed and “catapulted” when they took off just like the jet pilots. They were overnighted with 5,000 men who were in the Pacific for training preparing to protect the United States from harm anywhere in the world as well as provide humanitarian aid where needed. 2. Zach Rogers ’21 and Shaan Ahuja ’21 enjoy a friendly rivalry and reunion as they cheer on their teams, Ohio State University and Purdue University at Ohio State. 3. Rick Slusher ’94 (left) and Joe VanDeRyt ’94 (right) cheer on the Cincinnati Bengals to the AFC Championship victory in Kansas City. 4. Rick Slusher ’94 (left), John Weidner ’94 (middle), and Jason Combs ’94 (right) cheer on the Cincinnati Bengals at Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles. 5. Mike Thompson ’84, Nathan Thompson ’19 and Michael Thompson ’17 attended Super Bowl LVI in February. 6. Frank Riegler ’80 and Greg Vehr ’80 represent the Long Blue Line in AlaskaDenali National Park and Preserve- May 2022. 7. Park City Utah Spring Break Ski Adventure – Class of 2024. From L to R: Max Schwanekamp, Harrison Schinaman, Trey Joseph, Ty Reilly, Jackson Potter, Luke Lenahan, Adam Schwanekamp, Will Earls. 8. Six Bombers and assistant JV Bomber Football Coach John Zepf celebrate at the Super Bowl! Pictured here: Randy Newsom ’00, Chris Zepf ’89, TJ Jagoditz ’99, Mike Magee ’99, Mark Zepf ’00, Corey O’Connor ’99 and John Zepf JV Asst. Football Coach. 24 St. Xavier High School Summer 2022
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1. After a two-year hiatus, Class of 1961 classmates Bob Mackey, Bill Eastlake, and Bob Muehlenkamp, resumed their annual “Bobs Tour”, a September week of trout fishing in SW Idaho and SE Oregon. The brown trout may not have missed them, but they sure missed the trout! 2. Brady Louis ’54 stands on the steps of St. Patrick church in Erie, Pa. before leading the St. Patrick parade. One of the ribbons on Brady’s shillelagh salutes Ireland and the other supports Ukraine. 3. Incoming 2026 Bombers on their class trip to Washington DC. L-R: Brady McDonald, Ben Schmidt, Grant Hester and Henry Joecken. 4. John Brannan ’83, Richard Joseph ’83 and Doug Compton ’83 spent time with their families and friends in Santa Monica before Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles. 5. The Columbus Alumni Chapter dinner, which took place May 17 at Worthington Hills Country Club, featured President Tim Reilly ’76. 6. Ben Weintz ’21 took a spring break trip to Pennsylvania to hike on the Appalachian Trail at Michaux State Forest. 7. Arjun Rajagopal ’24 spends a day shadowing with Dr. Stephan Dixon ’03. 8. Eric Scheve ’89 and his son Gianpaolo Scheve ’23 in Brussels, Belgium during 2022 Spring Break in front of the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) while visiting their daughter/sister who is there studying abroad.
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X-Peditions
Pictured here are the Rogers brothers who graduated in three consecutive years from St. X- Paul Rogers ’73, John Rogers ’74 and George Rogers ’75. 2. Simeon Graves ’22 was baptized, received his first communion and was confirmed at the Easter Vigil this year. Father Tom Manahan SJ and fellow classmates Connor Kranson ’22 and Max Klare ’22 shared in celebrating the Mass. 3. Jay Fagel ’76 shows Bomber pride atop Mt. Suribachi on Iwo Jima; at the area where the famous “Flag Raising” occurred. 4. The Haglage Family has been regular visitors to Topsail Island, NC since 1957. The six Haglage brothers enjoyed their annual golfing/fishing get-away to the island the first week of May. L-R: Harry ’75; Dick ’73; Mike ’70; Mark ’69; Dan ’63; Ted ’62. 5. Alex Donovan and Danny Felton, both St. X class of 2016, finally celebrate their University of Notre Dame 2020 graduation in person on May 29, 2022. 6. Coming together for the Super Bowl! Brian Rath ’91, Dr. Ambrose Puttmann ’75, Diego Beeker ’16, and Andrew Geraghty ’18. 7. Tony Harris serves as the president at Cristo Rey Atlanta Jesuit High School. In the late 1990s he taught English and Social Studies and coached track and football at St. X. Here he is pictured with Michael Calloway ’96 Jack Mitchell ’12, and Hank Moller ’08. These men represent three (of many) points in the Long Blue Line of St. Xavier alumni that just happen to converge at CRAJ. Both Calloway and Mitchell mentor students, and Moller has been a member of the faculty for five years. Xavier Men continuing to serve! 8. Mike Wilkins ’68 and Mike Harmeyer ’22 display the Long Blue Line in action with practice interviews! 9. The St. Xavier Reserve Hockey Team played the Cincinnati IceBreakers game this winter. Both teams enjoyed the game!
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All in the family!
1. Assistant to the President, Heidi Kemper, posed with all four of her Bomber graduates as they visited their alma mater. L-R: Jack ’20, Tim ’14, Brian ’16, and Joe ’18. 2. In February, the Los Angeles Alumni Networking Dinner brought together members of the Long Blue Line. 3. Second year Society of Jesus novice, Brennan Dour nSJ, pictured far Left, assisted at St. Xavier this school year and accompanied his current first-year novice classmates, L-R: Carl Caceres nSJ, Leonardo Raner Asse Jr nSJ, and Brian Kemper nSJ ’16, who came to speak to religion classes in February. 4. Andy Sweeny ’68 and Steve Specht ’86 at The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Banquet and Program which was held on March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day) at Music Hall. Andy was president for this 152nd annual dinner of The Friendly Sons. 5. Joe Fischer ’72 attended the Interstate Insurance Product Review Commission meeting as a member of the Legislative Advisory committee, along with Charlie Perin ’72, a member of the Industry Advisory Committee.
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8. Kevin Reilly ’82 celebrates after the Bengals AFC Championship. 7
6. Tommy Linz ’04, Jon Mardis ’96, Joe Sprengard ’96, Matt Linz ’96 and Mark Kieffer ’96 at Big Sky, MT. 7. Robby Jung ’14 is a teacher at St. Vivians. Here he celebrates with eight of his students headed to become Bombers in the Class of 2026!
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2. A long running group of eight golfers from the Class of 1968 gathered in Augusta, Georgia for a week at the Masters and to play golf this April. L-R, top row: Steve Beck, Ray Connaughton, Bob Trenkamp and Steve Rabe. Bottom row: Tim Corbett, Tom McCarthy, Steve Doepker and Jim Murphy.
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. We’re looking forward to hearing from you soon. HOW TO SUBMIT the QR code, Email your submission to Brendan DeVenney at bdevenney@stxavier.org, or Fill out the online form at www.stxavier.org/xpeditions
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1. Eli Majick ’20 and Nick Meyer ’17 Dayton Flyers and Bombers for life!
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3. Joey Motz ’23, left, and Johnny Waldeck ’21 pose with their uncle Mark D. Motz ’87 in the Royal Promenade of the Freedom of the Seas cruise ship during a January trip from Miami to the Bahamas celebrating their parents’/Mark’s sister’s 23rd wedding anniversary. 4. Timothy J. Miller ‘68 proudly displays Bomber blue to Galapagos tortoises at Rancho Manzanilla, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands on September 4, 2021. 5. The St. X Class of 1972 celebrates at Tom and Karen Cassady’s home after the St. X Class of 2022 graduation exercises at the Cintas Center. 6. Deacon Kevin Cranley ’76 and Tim Miller ’68 coincidentally found themselves on the same “Oberammergau and the Shrines of Eastern Europe” pilgrimage in June. Here they are (Tim left, Kevin right) at the birthplace of St. John Paul II, Wadowice, Poland. 7. Members of the Phoenix Alumni Chapter gathered to celebrate connections made through the Long Blue Line on February 15, 2022. 8. Alumni celebrate together at the Bay Area Networking Dinner which took place in San Francisco’s Marina District at The Dorian. Bombers spanning class years from 1966 to 2016 were in attendance. #LongBlueLine 9. Brian Donahue’10 , Emanuel Zalants ’10 and John Bauke ’10 celebrate the Long Blue Line at Emanuel’s wedding to Kristina Perchishena at Peterloon Estate in Indian Hill .
Alumni Gatherings and School Events Summer/Fall 2022Calendar THANK YOU! Thank you to our two retiring staff members for their service. 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. 14 Young Alumni Golf Outing - Glenview Golf Course 17 First Day of School 22 Alumni Golf OutingWestern Hills Country 27-28Club Chicago Reunion 2 First Friday - St. Xavier Church Downtown at 11:30 a.m. 2-3 Class of 1967, Class of 2007 and Class of 16-172012 Reunions Classof196, Class of 1977, Class of 1982 and Class of 1997 Reunions 18 Senior Grandparent’s Mass and Breakfast 22 Class of 1964Metropolitan Club 23 Walk For X 7 First Friday - St. Xavier Church Downtown at 11:30 a.m. 9 Junior Grandparent’s Mass and Breakfast 14-15 Class of 1987, Class of 1992 and Class of 2002 Reunions 18 X-Travaganza - Ladies Bunco Night August September October Mrs. Sandy Grammel School Nurse Mr. Jon Ivec VP for Operations and CFO SAVE THE DATE for X-Travaganza 2023 March 4, 2023 Summer 2022 St. Xavier High School Magazine 29
600 W. North Bend Road Cincinnati, OH CHANGEwww.StXavier.org45224-1499SERVICEREQUESTED Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Cincinnati, Ohio Permit No. 5253 St. Xavier Athletic Hall of Fame 2023 FEBRUARY 9, 2023 KEYNOTE SPEAKER: PETE ROSE SAVE THE DATE
