G R E A T E R
C I N C I N N A T I ’ S
J E S U I T
H I G H
S C H O O L Fall 2021
INSIDE President’s Honor Roll
Financial Report
From the President We opened this Ignatian year celebrating the conversion Ignatius experienced 500 years ago. One question I would love to ask Ignatius himself is whether he paid attention to the (lack of a) business model that evolved in his admirable quest to fund schools and educate in the Jesuit tradition. As you know, here at St. X we never charge what we spend per student. As you look at the financial picture of St. X, it really is incredible because our model of financial sustainability does not pass any logic test. But for 190 years, St. Xavier High School has been serving families in the education and formation of their sons. In this issue, you will not be surprised to see an abundance of names whose good will and generosity have made us stronger than ever. I know many alumni, myself included, did not think about how they would live out the call to be Men for Others at the time they graduated. That doesn’t surprise anyone. As you know, many St. Xavier graduates later become very generous to their alma mater. But have you ever looked through the donor lists of other non-profits? When I do, I use my “X-Vision” and note one member after another of the Long and Wide Blue Line in many donor honor rolls. I was recently asked if I get jealous when I see a St. X name supporting another school or charity, and my response to the question is an emphatic, “No!” That support is hard evidence of our mission being fulfilled. As I reflect on donors here and everywhere, I see a critical connection. Our past, current, and Bombers of the future, will, I believe, continue to be the donors to many worthwhile organizations. That leads to a firm conclusion: we need to graduate more Bombers! When you are Men and Women for Others you inspire our current students to give back when it is their turn. Many have heard me say the city, state, country, world, and church all need more graduates of St. X. I am suggesting we need to add non-profits to the list of those who need more St. X grads as well!
Tim Reilly ’76
We are blessed by many who support the students and mission with their time and talent. We need your financial support, however, that is not the only way to make an impact on our community. We are blessed by many who support the students and mission with their time and talent. Though those donors are not listed in this issue’s honor roll, their contributions are important. When I graduated from here in 1976, I know I never thought my path would lead me back to the halls of St. Xavier, especially not to the office of president! I also know that Nick Vehr ’77, our current board chair, never imagined his life would guide him back to lead our board. In this issue you can read a special message from Nick (as well as an introduction of new faculty and staff, student achievements, the welcome of the Class of 2025 and the Mass of the Holy Spirit). You will also read about the Klare family stepping up to chair X-Travaganza. Take a peek at our growing archives, and read about what is happening in Career ConneXions. Many of these things would not be possible without our donors and volunteers who give selflessly to the young men of St. Xavier High School. We are grateful for all of these gifts of time, talent, and treasure which together make a tremendous impact on our students and, in turn, the world. A.M.D.G.,
Timothy J. Reilly ’76 President
ADMINISTRATION Mr. Timothy J. Reilly ’76, President Rev. Walter C. Deye SJ Rector Mr. Daniel J. Lynch, Principal Mr. Jonathan C. Ivec, Vice President for Operations & CFO Mr. Anthony E. Schad ’81, Vice President of Advancement
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mr. Gregory G. Achten ’82- Co-Vice Chair Mr. Robert E. Carroll ’76 Mr. Michael E. Dahm Rev. Walter C. Deye, SJ ’66 - Co-Vice Chair Mr. Michael J. Ehrensberger ’61 Mr. Brian J. Fitzgerald ’91 Sr. Therese Gillman, OSF Dr. Colleen M. Hanycz Mrs. Toi C. Jones Mr. Adam T. Mueller ’96 Rev. William J. Murphy, SJ Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ Mr. Vivek Ramaswamy ’03 Mr. Andrew N. Recker ’97 Mr. Timothy J. Reilly ’76 Mrs. Mabe Rodriguez Steigerwald Mr. Mark M. Ryan ’91 Mr. Timothy J. Steigerwald ’83 Mrs. Linnell R. Sullivan Rev. Eric M. Sundrup, SJ Mr. Nicholas J. Vehr ’77 - Chair Rev. Nathan C. Wendt, SJ
Inside this Issue 12 Financial Report The Long Blue Line Continues with You!
16 Alumni Reflection
13 X-Travaganza Celebrate the Long Blue Line - Our St. X Family
Meet the New Board Chair - Nicholas Vehr ’77
CONTRIBUTORS Joyce A. Bowman Cathy M. Cionni David V. Clapp Christine L. Dauenhauer Heidi B. Eveleigh Edmund L. Franchi Eric M. Gammarino ’09 Ellen K. Gormley Cara L. Hester W. Matthew Keith ’93 Nicholas B. Kemper ’06 Ralph A. Nardini ’77 Heidi A. O’Connor Anthony E. Schad ’81 Andrew E. Sweeny ’68 Nicholas J. Vehr ’77
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 http://www.stxavier.org e-mail: bschulte@stxavier.org
Above: Evan helps to welcome the Class of 2025 during orientation days. Cover: President Tim Reilly ’76 celebrates the Mass of the Holy Spirit with the St. Xavier student body.
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.
10 VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE/ DOYLE SEEDLING PROGRAM
17 ALUMNI X-CERPTS & X-PEDITIONS
14 CAREER CONNEXIONS
25 CALENDAR
15 EXCERPTS FROM THE ARCHIVES Fall 2021
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We are St. Xavier News and notes around the St. Xavier campus
Alumni Golf Outings Young Alumni Golf Outing – Sunday, August 15 at Glenview Golf Course The Young Alumni Golf Outing was a hit once again! The event filled up within 48 hours of registration opening. Thanks to the 128 alumni who participated in addition to our friends at Glenview Golf Course and Jersey Mike’s in Cornell Plaza!
Alumni Golf Outing – Monday, September 20 at Coldstream Country Club This year’s St. Xavier Annual Alumni outing was a great success with two sold out flights at Coldstream Country Club. Alumni and friends enjoyed one of the premier golf courses in Ohio. The morning flight was won by the team of Tom McCarty’81, Billy McCarty ’91, Charlie McCarty ’85 and John Wintz ’81 with a scintillating score of 13 under par. The afternoon flight battled some inclement weather but fought through with the victorious group of Nick Reilly ’95, Peter Kelly ’92, Chris Dibattista ’93 and Joe Lyon ’95 who carded an incredible score of 15 under par. Thank you all who attended. The comaraderie was at a peak level and we sincerely hope all that attended had a wonderful time. Thank you to Walt’s Hitching Post for the great tee gift and to Sorrento’s Italian Joint for supplying the wonderful food provided. Take a look at the pictures from the event on the St. X web site at https://www.stxavier.org/alumni/reunionsevents. We look forward to another great outing next September. If you are interested, the St. Xavier X-Travaganza Golf Outing is May 23, 2022 at the Oasis. For more information visit https://www.stxavier.org/alumni/reunionsevents.
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St. Xavier High School Magazine Fall 2021
Thomas Hegman '06, Andrew Geers '04, Brad Scheidt '04 and Brian Sabatalo '04
Patrick Beausejour ’07 and Mike Beausejour '05 donning form fitting Blue Blazers received after finishing with the low score of -18 (not pictured – Johnny Wolf '05 and Jacob Konerman '17).
Left: Brian Roettker ’94, Don Roettker ’69, Dick Roettker ’76 and Rick Roettker ’95 Bottom Left: Billy McCarty '91, Tom McCarty '81, John Wintz '81 and Charlie McCarty '85 Below: Bev Kirby, Bev Linnemann Wittrock and Kathy Fries
Welcome to the Class of 2025 St. Xavier kicked off the school year on August 18 welcoming the Class of 2025. This class adds 364 members to the Long Blue Line!
Mission Trips Back In Action We had a great summer of service and immersion mission trips at St. X. More than 130 seniors went to communities throughout Appalachia and Cincinnati to do housing repair and agricultural work to help others. After working during the day, they learned about social issues like rural poverty, immigration, environmental protection and homelessness. This unique experience also allowed students to strengthen existing friendships with each other or for new ones to form. These young men truly exemplify what it means to be a Man for Others!
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PAC Updates On August 22, Parents Across Cultures (PAC), hosted their annual Ice Cream Social welcoming the students and families from the Class of 2025. The purpose of the social is to connect incoming students and families with St. X and to each other to ease the challenges of transitioning to high school. With temperatures hovering in the 90’s, the ice
Mass of the Holy Spirit
cream social was the coolest idea! The families were welcomed by PAC as well as President
St. Xavier students, faculty, and staff
Tim Reilly ’76 and Principal Dan Lynch. Nearly 300 people registered for the experience
were pleased to celebrate the annual
which has become a signature event for Parents Across Cultures and our Diversity, Equity
Mass of the Holy Spirit together in the
and Inclusion office.
Berning gym on Friday, September 10. The long-standing tradition is an event
The office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Hands Across Campus (HAC) also
that is cherished throughout the Jesuit
celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through
community around the world. The
October 15 with various events and activities including a cultural conversation with Judge
Class of 2025 was formally welcomed
Marilyn Zayas, the first Hispanic Appellate District Judge in Hamilton County. The Fine
into the St. Xavier community.
Arts department also joined in the celebration and displayed art and information from notable Hispanic artists to inspire our Hispanic students and educate our general student population as we prepare them to be Global Citizens who respect all cultures.
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College Board The College Board National African American Recognition Program named Mwenda Mbui ’22 and Ethan McCoy ’22 as scholars. Congratulations!
Athletic Hall of Fame This August St. Xavier alumni and friends gathered to usher in the St. Xavier Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2021. The newest inductees include: Jim Brower – Swim Coach Peter Carothers ’04 – Swimming Luke Kuechly ’09 – Football Tim Mahoney ’76 – Basketball Andy Wietmarschen ’01 – Cross Country The emcee for the evening was Rocky Boiman ’98, former NFL player and current ESPN analyst.
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Students Co-host Special Olympic Games In June, St. Xavier was proud to be a host of the Hamilton County Special Olympics summer games at Ballaban Field. Many of our students volunteered with Special Olympic athletes during the school year and were happy to reconnect during their summer vacation over football, bocce ball, soccer and more. They had the FCC and Bengal mascots, sunny weather and a great time!
National Merit Scholars Congratulations to the nine St. Xavier students who are Semifinalists in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Pictured with Principal Dan Lynch and President Tim Reilly ’76 are Semifinalists: Henry Berry, Noah Burkhardt, David Clark, Calogero Fiorito, Jackson Glass, Nicholas Gockerman, Aarav Kukreja, Mwenda Mbui and Dominic Olaguera-Delogu.
Commended Students Congratulations to the 17 St. Xavier students who are Commended Students in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Competition.
Czarnecki, Yashmit V. Deshpande, Michael J. Harmeyer, William T. Keenan, Zachary. W. Kreutzjans, Jack Y. Louis, Quinlan M. Martin, Daniel M. O'Grady, Joseph N. Piehowicz and Jason L. Zhao.
Pictured with Principal Dan Lynch and President Tim Reilly ’76 are
Not pictured: John J. Brannock, Rowan S. Donovan, Todd
Commended Students: Ryan J. Beirne, Andres M. Beluan, Cade M.
C. Grant, William Kwan and Christian W. Shubert.
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Summer Camps Inspired Students Summer Camps are all about making and playing! Whether students were making items in MakerSpace camp or making the grade in academic enrichment camps, playing on the field or stage, all of the students made memories. MakerSpace camp continues! The camp encourages boys and girls to imagine, plan, and create using computer drafting, 3-D printing, and traditional construction. Learn more about the state-of-the-art MakerSpace at StXavier.org/finearts.
Students enjoyed summer camps at St. Xavier
Development Chairmen Take the Lead on Annual Fund Efforts Student Development Chairmen for the 2021-22 school year have
The 2021-22 Chairman include: Harry Albach, Bennet Albanese,
been announced. This group of 32 students will spend a large
Owen Albanese, Andrew Andsager, Andy Beluan, PJ Bower, Peter
amount of their free time helping to coordinate the Student Annual
Brunsman, Liam Degroft, Seth Engelhardt, Anthony France, Cole
Fund Phonathon. This dedicated group will also assist in organizing
Kendall, Ryan King, Alex Lefker, Grant Lyons, Mwenda Mbui, Ethan
the efforts of more than 200 of their fellow classmates and St. Xavier
McCoy, John Metzger, Gio Minghetti, Carson Moore, Brian Parker,
seniors who will give of their time contacting alumni on behalf of the
Joseph Piehowicz, Sean Reilly, Zach Rengers, Mason Rohmiller,
annual fund.
Jimmy Ryan, Louie Semona, John Sikora, Will Taul, Nick Uhl, Luke Vrsansky, Drew Williams and Jason Zhao. Pictured with Eric Gammarino and Tom Broe
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Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Kick Off! On the evening of August 21, the St. Xavier community celebrated the launch of the new St. Xavier High School Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The result of
Bob Shaw '66 (left) and alumni parent Dick Huskey discuss the new program and exciting opportunities for students.
more than eight years of planning and activity, the Center is a program that includes entrepreneurship elective courses, monthly speakers, field trips locally and to various parts of the country, on-campus student-run coffee shops, mentoring and more. The chairperson of the Center, Tim “Coach Mac” McDonald, served as emcee for the event, which provided an opportunity for the school to thank the many volunteers who have participated in various capacities over the years. The new Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation is always seeking new volunteers and supporters. Please contact Tim McDonald at tmcdonald@stxavier.org for more information.
Mason Seitz '20 and Ethan Gick '21 were honored as recipients of the annual student entrepreneurship award in their respective graduation years.
Walk4X On Friday September 24, the St. Xavier student body participated in the 46th annual Walk4X. The Walk4X is the only student fundraiser for the school. The money raised from the Walk4X bridges the gap between the cost of tuition and the actual cost of educating a student at St. Xavier. This year the walk raised more than $135,000. Students enjoyed perfect weather and raising money for their fellow classmates.
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Theatre Xavier Presents 2021-2022 Season Lives of the Saints By David Ives Performances Nov 12, 13, 14 (Fr, Sa, Su) Nov 18, 19, 20 (Th, Fr, Sa)
Illuminations Jan 28 (Fr)
Singing in the Rain Story by Betty Comden & Adolph Green, lyrics by Arthur Freed, and music by Nacio Herb Brown Performances Apr 1, 2, 3 (Fr, Sa, Su) Apr 7, 8, 9 (Th, Fr, Sa)
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Vice President’s Message Tony Schad ’81
There is a phrase on the Doyle Family Foundation
“Judy and I are so grateful to Denny and
website that says, “Strategic Planning for Eternity.” I love
Lois for their inspiration and example on
that concept.
how we can all 'give back' what God has
Denny and Lois Doyle are the parents of three St. Xavier
so abundantly given to us. The opportunity
alumni, Brian ’89, Mark ’91 and David ’98. St. Xavier
to leverage the financial seeds initially
students have benefited from the Doyle Foundation’s support
planted by Denny and Lois, for the
of secondary Catholic education since it was founded in 1991.
betterment of our young men - forever,
In this magazine you see all the named endowments that have been established to support our mission at St. X. Thanks to Denny and Lois Doyle, and the work of their foundation, more than 80 of those endowments have been partially funded through a program we call the Doyle Foundation Seedling Program. In fact, $1,200,000 in support from the Doyle Foundation has led to more than $12,000,000 in endowed scholarship funds benefitting St. Xavier students. This foundation strategically plans for the eternal support of the education for young men in the tradition of the Jesuits on
is a very special gift.” The information on the right side of this page outlines the Doyle Seedling program. What better way to “strategically plan for eternity” than to make sure that St. X, the school you so passionately love is supported far into the future? If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at Tschad@stxavier.org or call me at 513-618-3228.
North Bend Road.
Thank you again to the Doyles for their generous support
This program sets out to build an endowment that will live
magazine. The Long Blue Line really does continue with you!
on and support our young men of St. Xavier now and well down the road, or as is said, in perpetuity. That can happen in a combination of ways. The most recent endowment that has been set up with the assistance of this program is the Mike and Judy Ehrensberger Scholarship Endowment. As Mike Ehrensberger ’61 powerfully stated,
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St. Xavier High School Magazine Fall 2021
and to all those whose names are seen on the pages of this
A.M.D.G. Anthony E. Schad ’81 Vice President of Advancement Tschad@stxavier.org 513-618-3228
Foundation Seedling Program The Doyle Family Foundation Seedling Program has over the last 15 years been instrumental in St. Xavier increasing its endowment by over $12M. Our Advancement team has identified supporters who we believe could co create an endowed scholarship. The Doyle’s plant a “Seed” of $10K or more and families agreeFAMILY to grow the seed by BY PARTICIPATING IN THE DOYLE making a matching contribution and further fund the FOUNDATION SEEDLING PROGRAM endowment to $50 K over a designated number of years. The family also agrees to become a member of our Father Edward Wieber S.J. Society by making a legacy gift Over the last 15 years, The Doyle Foundation ofFamily at least $50 K. Donors are matched with a particular Seedling Program has been instrumental at St. Xavier, student receiving aid equivalent to the income produced increasing its endowment by more than $12M. Our Advancement team works with by supporters theirwho giftco-create and are invited to meet their student at a endowed scholarships. The Doyle’s plant a “Seed” of $10K reception every Spring or more and families agree to grow the seed by making a
Make A Positive Impact On A Young Man’s Life
matching contribution and further fund the endowment to $50K over a designated number of years. The family also agrees to become a member of our Fr. Edward Wieber S.J.
Society by making a legacy gift of at least $50K. Donors KE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON A YOUNG MAN’S LIFE are matched with a BYreceiving PARTICIPATING IN particular student aid equivalent to the income by their giftFOUNDATION and are invited to meet their student SEEDLING PROGRAM DOYLE produced FAMILY at a reception every fall. Please welcome our most recent Seedling Endowment established through the generosity of
ributed to Mike your’61endowed scholarship will become and Judy Ehrensberger. Xavier endowment fund. A portion of the , as determined by the Board of Trustees, shall h year to fund a tuition assistance scholarship The Doyles have given us more “Seeds” to plant at for udents. St. Xavier. Please consider planting a “Seed” with us.
For more information on the Doyle Seedling Program or the St. X the Annual Fund please contact Tony rmation regarding Doyle Foundation at Tschad@stxavier.org or by phone at am or the Schad St. Xavier Annual Fund, you can 513.618.3220.
Schad at Tschad@stxavier.org or by phone at
Denny and Lois Doyle
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Report of Operations Revenue and Expenses Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2021 FY 2020-21 OPERATING REVENUE Tuition and Fees, Gross
$22,883,228
Investment & Endowment Income TOTAL REVENUES
$3,547,680 $26,430,908
ADVANCEMENT AND OTHER INCOME APPLIED TO OPERATIONS TOTAL REVENUE + INCOME
$4,441,515
$30,872,423
NET OPERATING EXPENSES Instructional
$14,724,886
Administrative
$4,343,684
Tuition Assistance
$4,437,705
Aux. Enterprises & Activities
$3,173,274
Plant Operations
$2,482,327
Fundraising
$1,710,547
TOTAL EXPENSES
$30,872,423
14% 14% 12%
REVENUE
12%
Tuition and Fees, Gross
74%
Investment and Endowment
74%
Advancement and Other Income Applied to Operations
As of June 30, 2021:
8% 10% 8%
5%
EXPENSES
5%
10%
Instructional
48%
15%
48%
Tuition Assistance Aux. Enterprises and Activities Plant Operations
15% 14% 14%
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Administrative
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Fundraising
Market Value of Endowment Funds $100,368,301 Actual Endowment Draw from Investments 4.7% Bond Payable $16,834,090
T H E
L O N G
B L U E
L I N E
Our St. X Family
Join us for...
X-Travaganza 2022!
Our Klare Family is honored to co-chair St. X’s 49th Annual, 2022 X-Travaganza. John ’82 and Lisa, Bob ’83, Dan ’85 and Karen, Andy ’87 and Susan, are excited to celebrate this year’s theme of FAMILY. We are proud of the many Klare men and relatives who have and currently attend St. X. We are blessed to include ourselves in the great tradition of The Long Blue Line as Men for Others. Following in the footsteps of our parents John and Robey, who chaired X-Travaganza in 1980, we pay tribute to them and to all St. X families and friends past, present and future who have given so much to each of us and who have made St. Xavier the great school and community that it is today. We humbly ask for your generosity once again for this fun event in support of the fine young men of St. X. We readily invite each of you to honor your great families as well and join us as a sponsor, volunteer and attendee for X-Travaganza, March 4-5, 2022.
Preparations are underway for the 49th annual X-Travaganza! With the generous support of the St. Xavier community, X-Travaganza has grown from a premier once-a-year dinner auction to a series of events, raffles and auctions that culminates in the flagship event on March 5, 2022. Throughout the year, X-Travaganza proceeds collectively generate funds to benefit all St. Xavier students! Your support of X-Travaganza helps fund many educational and extracurricular opportunities for all students, from Academics, Athletics, Music, Theater X and Mock Trial to Community Service, Mission Trips, Campus Ministry, Tuition Assistance and many more. Join X-Travaganza 2022 Co-Chairs Lisa and John ’82 Klare, parents of John ’15 and Sam ’17, Bob ’83 Klare, Karen and Dan ’85 Klare, parents of Dan ’16, Ben ’14, Jake ’13 and Will ’23 and Susan and Andy ’87 Klare, parents of Drew ’18, Max ’22 and Luke ’24 for the upcoming events! Visit www.stxavier.org/xtravaganza for updates and registration links.
Go Bombers! A.M.D.G. John, Lisa, Bob, Dan, Karen, Andy and Susan Klare
John and Robey Klare
SAV E T H E DAT E S : Ladies Bunco Night: October 26, 2021 Holiday Online Auction: opens November 24, 2021 Grand Raffle: ticket sales start January 2022 Trivia Night: January 29, 2022 Opening Party: March 4, 2022 X-Travaganza: March 5, 2022 X-Travaganza Golf Outing: May 23, 2022
The Klare Family
Many thanks to our generous 2021 Sponsors: Grand Raffle Sponsor ($10,000)
Pearl Sponsors ($2,500)
Vandercar Holdings, LLC
Baird Graystone Consulting Jake Sweeney Automotive Kopf Hunter Haas Realtors Brian and Karen Robinson Zimmer Heating and Cooling Zobrist Design Group
Diamond Sponsor ($10,000) FastPark & Relax Lisanne and Mike ’84 Thompson
Sapphire Sponsor ($5,000) Beacon Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Drs. Matthew and Rachel Langenderfer Drs. Michael Rohmiller and Kimberly Draud Mike’s Carwash Path Forward Priority Insulation Tier1Performance
Golf Competition Sponsor ($2,500) Forward Edge
Special Thanks Aero Fulfillment Services Jackie Schaiper
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Career ConneXions
continues to help students “Find Their Path” college and beyond while connecting with The Long Blue Line and the St. X parent community in a rich and rewarding way.
Senior Career ConneXions leader, Mwenda Mbui shares information about job shadow opportunities.
I learned so much about the world of real estate that I would have never expected to learn had I not gone on a job shadow! One of the things I love about St. X is the people I have met, and Mr. Gardner is the perfect example of someone I never would have met if I hadn’t been involved in Career ConneXions. Thanks again! Jeffrey Hecht ’21 (shadowed Eric Gardner) As the Career ConneXions program begins its fifth year of programming, the mission of providing students with real-world experiences beyond the classroom is as relevant as ever. Students of all grade levels have opportunities to hear speakers, participate in roundtable discussions, have 1:1 calls with professionals, experience a day in the life through job shadowing, and apply for a summer internship with over 50 company partners. These programs are designed to give students career exploration opportunities that develop life skills critical in
Just a few of the many summer internship hosts and student interns. 14
St. Xavier High School Magazine Fall 2021
As of last year we had 1300+ students engage with our program across 3,000+ in person “touchpoints” (a touchpoint is a speaker event, job shadow, 1:1 activity, etc.). Online engagement was at a high point as well especially given the COVID environment. Roughly 7,000 online touchpoints were made with students as they engaged with our online educational content (e.g. resume writing) through videos and online materials. The diversity of students in our programs has also improved with a 16% growth in freshman getting involved as well as 30+% involvement from students of diverse backgrounds. In a competitive college and professional landscape, our St. X students are more prepared than ever to make informed decisions about career choices that tap into their passions and skills and set them on a course for a purpose-filled life. Thank you to the 400+ volunteers who have helped bring this program to life - whether you’ve given a talk, mentored a student, or sponsored an intern – these real-world experiences are invaluable in a student’s development and understanding career possibilities for their future. This year over 50 companies partnered with us for summer internships and shared incredible stories of the talented students they added to their organization. Follow us on St. X LinkedIn to see videos about their experiences. We are always interested in connecting with more volunteers please contact stxcareerconnections@stxavier.org to get involved.
excerpts from the ARCHIV E S
Nicholas Kemper ’06, Archivist
Thursday October 19, 1843. A troupe of enthusiastic and animated St. Xavier boarding school students departs from their residence on Sycamore Street in downtown Cincinnati and heads east. The students have just finished the first three days of their school week and are about to enjoy a well-deserved day off before continuing with their studies on Friday and Saturday. Under the watchful gaze of a Jesuit scholastic, the group winds their way for 2.5 miles until they reach their intended destination: the Purcell Mansion in Walnut Hills. The property upon which the Purcell Mansion sat was originally purchased eleven years earlier in 1832 by Fr. Edward Fenwick, the first Bishop of the Diocese of Cincinnati, as a possible location for a seminary. Beginning in 1843 Fenwick’s successor, John Baptist Purcell, instead allowed the Jesuits of St. Xavier College to use the property as a place of relaxation and play for their students. The 1843-1844 St. Xavier Catalogue notes, “Every Thursday in the year is a day of recreation. This day is spent by the boarders at the Purcell Mansion, a country seat about two miles distant from the city and commanding an extensive view of the Ohio River and surrounding country.”
However, the decision to house the youngest St. Xavier students away from the main school on Sycamore Street lasted only two academic years. By late 1849, the preparatory students were all back at the downtown location with their older classmates. It is believed that ongoing cholera outbreaks at the time helped to hasten the mansion school’ s closure. The Jesuits continued to own and maintain the Purcell Mansion property for the ensuing two decades, often still using it as a site for recreation and leisure. This lasted until April 1873 when the Jesuits sold the land for $89,229.03. Today in Walnut Hills there exists no evidence of the Purcell Mansion. The major thoroughfare just to the north of the property, McMillan, is still there; Fortman and Church Streets are now Moorman and Hackberry, respectively; and Ingleside Avenue is located just to the west of the former property. The spectacular and “extensive view of the Ohio River and surrounding country” is of course still there, a final vestige linking a little-known chapter of St. Xavier history with the world of today.
Initially comprised of 8.34 acres of land, the property featured a large house with pastures, groves, gardens, a vineyard, and of course, stunning vistas of the river and Kentucky. In May 1844 Bishop Purcell sold the entire property to the Jesuits for $9,000, and the site continued to be used by St. Xavier students as a destination for recreation until the summer of 1847.
It was then that St. Xavier President John Blox, SJ chose to convert the mansion into a separate boarding school to house and educate students from the preparatory department; the pupils in this division were some of the youngest enrolled at the time, ranging in age from 7 to 13. The 1847-1848 St. Xavier Catalogue states: The Mansion has been enlarged during the past summer, so as to render it commodious for Boarders; and the elementary department of the St. Xavier College has been permanently transferred to it since the beginning of the present scholastic year, 1847-‘48. There, removed from the noise and distractions of the city, the youth of this department may lay the foundation of their education and acquire a fondness for industry and perseverance which may render them, one day, honorable, useful, and influential members of society.
April 1872 plat of the Purcell Mansion property; St. Xavier High School Archives. Fall 2021
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Alumni Reflection Meet the New Board Chair - Nicholas Vehr ’77 The strangest thing has been happening to me since becoming Chair of the St. Xavier High School Board of Trustees. Fellow board members, faculty, staff, donors, alumni and parents keep saying “Thanks.” The funny thing is that I feel like I should be thanking them for the opportunity serve this incredible institution. Catholic and Jesuit education are part of the Vehr family DNA. Three of my brothers and I are first generation graduates. My parents volunteered generously and co-chaired X-Travaganza back in the mid-1970s as it was just getting started. My son, two sons-inlaw and multiple nephews are members of the Long Blue Line. And a long-serving Jesuit priest baptized, counseled, married and buried a long list of Vehrs. He was truly a part of our family. While my parents and God placed a commitment to service in my heart, my years at St. X pulled it forward and centered it in my life. The academic rigor of St. X enabled me to survive and thrive as a student-athlete playing football at the University of Notre Dame. There, the Jesuit commitment to service was amplified by the Holy Cross priests. I am a blessed man. I am now honored to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees. Our job as board members is crystal clear: to enable our President, Tim Reilly ’76 , and Principal, Dan Lynch, along with every member of the faculty and staff, to do their jobs for 1,400+ young men who attend St. X. Football players Pat McCullough, Jim Lang, Greg Mersch, John
Your staff and faculty work each day to be the best at getting better. They brought the students through in-person learning during the pandemic. Our enrollment and donations grew through it as well. These talented professionals educate, enlighten, challenge, nurture and prepare every single young man who passes through the front door. Our job as the Board of Trustees is to make sure they can keep doing that.
Ernst, Nick Vehr
I have been associated with the St. X. board for several years. Being prepared for change has been the consistent theme throughout that time. I am amazed, but not surprised, at how St. X has managed through these past several years. I am encouraged and excited for the years to come. Thank you for your support of St. Xavier High School. Thank you for the opportunity to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees.
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Nick Vehr Then and Now
Alumni X-Cerpts 50’s
80’s
Roger E. Kanet ’54 is enjoying retirement from a long and illustrious career in education at Kansas, Illinois and Miami. He has earned many honors, degrees and titles.
George R. Snider III ’81
AJ Wessel ’19 was appointed by Governor
Owner & founder of Murder and Merriment, George R. Snider III ’81, has recently opened a new regional company now in North-Central Ohio. His other mystery companies include West Virginia, Cincinnati, and Lexington, KY. Murder and Merriment is the second largest murder mystery theatre company east of the Mississippi River. www.murderandmerriment.com.
Mike DeWine to serve as Undergraduate Student Trustee on the University of Cincinnati’s Board of Trustees.
60’s Jay Moriarty ’64 was interviewed on camera for CNN’s upcoming eight-part Special Series titled HISTORY OF SITCOM which will air this fall. Jay discusses his work as a writer/producer on series such as All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Maude, Good Times, Dear John, Cosby and more. In addition to his work in TV, Jay has served as an Adjunct Professor in the Writing Division of the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts (film school) for eleven years. Jay is the author of the book HONKY IN THE HOUSE, Writing & Producing The Jeffersons, which tells his story of leaving Ohio for Hollywood and takes readers behind the scenes of that “Dee-Luxe Apartment in the Sky.” The book is available online at Amazon or wherever side-splitting books are sold.
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10’s
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Jay Whitlock ’19 is featured in the Michael Coppage exhibition at the National Underground Freedom Center. Jay is the 'Black List’ model.
20’s 10’s Brian Kemper ’16 Prayers for Brian Kemper ’16 as he joins the Midwest Jesuit class of Novices who are pursuing a life of service through the priesthood.
Alex Baier ’21 and Aaron Porotsky ’21 of Troop 24 recently received their Eagle Scout awards. Alex's Eagle project involved planning and creating an outdoor classroom area at OLG. Aaron's project involved designing and constructing a new stable for the Nativity at St. James Church.
80’s James Lafferty ’81 In addition to being a corporate executive in Manila, James Lafferty ’81 is a fitness and conditioning coach in Dubai. One of his athletes, Filipino pole-vaulter, EJ Obiena participated in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Lafferty was also ranked in Forbes Top 100 CEOs in the Middle East and Africa.
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News from the Long Blue Line
20’s
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Daniel Dorsey ’21, cello player, is a member of the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra (co-principal), CSO’s Nouveau Chamber Players and Nouveau Pre-Conservatory, OMEA Southwest Regional Orchestra (principal) and OMEA All-State Orchestra. Daniel was a recent featured player at the CSO’s concert at Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church, Cincinnati.
FACULTY The US Department of Education Presidential Scholars award named Dr. Braden Mechley as 2021 Distinguished Teacher. Dr. Mechley received a letter from the Secretary of Education for his award in late May. There have been four previous U.S. Presidential Scholars from St. Xavier: 1974, 1981, 1988, and 2004. Current faculty member, Dave Eby, was the Distinguished Teacher in 2004.
IN MEMORIAM
Aidan Finn ’21 was awarded an Equitable Excellence scholarship from the Equitable Foundation. His achievement included a companion award for St. Xavier as well. Aidan is now attending the University of Notre Dame.
Mr. John FREY Mr. James GAEDE Mr. John SMITH LTC Henry MARKS Mr. James ROBISCH Mr. Henry BOEHMER Mr. Thomas WAGNER Mr. John AMMON Mr. John MAYER Mr. James BUESCHER
1955 1958 1957 1960 1981 1948 1962 1946 1963 1958
Mr. Eugene KOETTER Mr. Kevin MARTIN Mr. Stephen ROACH Mr. Edward FILUSCH Mr. John PUTHOFF Mr. Donald LUEBBE Mr. Gerald STURM Mr. Damien FELLINGER
1949 1987 1965 1965 1957 1951 1951 2000
BIRTHS BROE Congratulations to Tom ’04 and Elli Broe on the arrival of George Christopher Broe who arrived on August 2, 2021 at 12:30 p.m. and weighed in at 6 lbs. 15 oz. Mom, Dad and Baby Broe are doing well. Tom was able to return to begin another school year teaching in the St. Xavier math department.
WEDDINGS COLE In July, Jonathan Cole ’12 married Lindsey Swan. In attendance were the following Bombers! Lee House ’12, Chuck Cole ’79, Ethan Gick ’21, Ryan Gick ’22, John Cole ’85, Kevin Reilly BIRTHS Sr ’81, Jonathan Cole ’12, Dan Bellissemo ’85, Cecil Walker ’11, Nick Colvin ’12, Andrew Elsen ’12, Dan Jones ’80, Phil Leisring ’12, Adam Jones ’12, and Kevin Reilly Jr ’12. MICHEL The wedding of Sam Michel ’07 and Jamie Drennan took place in Avon, Ohio on 8/28/2021. Pictured from left to right are groomsmen and alumni Mike Ernst ’07, David Frey ’07, Matthew Freese ’07, Sam Michel ’07, David Hall ’07 and John Brumm ’07. LEWIS Nick Lewis ’10 married Paula DiBeneditto on 8/14/21 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Birmingham, AL. Pictured from left to right are St. X alumni and family members attending the wedding Alex Hauck ’91, Nick Lewis ’10, Jack Hauck ’21 and Andrew Hauck ’79.
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X-Peditions On the globe, the long blue line is the equator. In St. X parlance, the Long Blue Line of alumni and student body appears all over the globe. Bomber blue turns up all over the map and we want the evidence. Send us your pictures wearing St. Xavier High School gear or hoisting a copy of St. Xavier magazine at an exotic locale or local landmark. Maybe a picture of Bombers at the Pyramids of Egypt or posing at the Pit. Either way, let us know where you’ve been displaying your X pride. Send your high-resolution digital images to egormley@stxavier.org or mail prints to Ellen Gormley c/o St. Xavier magazine, 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45224.
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1. In July, Patrick Gormley ’21 explored the land of volcanoes and glaciers with the Ring Tour of Iceland. 2. The USMA (West Point) and USAFA (Air Force Academy) Parachute Teams spent a week over spring break in Arizona competing in formation and accuracy-oriented events. After the competition, they combined for a 26-person formation (10 West Point Cadets and 16 Air Force Cadets) released from three aircraft. Connor Yauss ’17, is the one in the black and gold jump suit with the blue dot on his helmet. Connor is the son of faculty members Roger ’79 and Michelle Yauss. 3. In early September, Golf Coach Alex Kepley shared this photo of the Annual Golfers Pool Party at Coach Feldkamp’s house! Members of the golf team include: Zackary Beard ’22, Eric Braun ’23, Lucas Calvert ’23, Ryan Deeley ’23, Charles Fish ’24, Edward Gerstner III ’22, Robert GerwinIII ’24, Bryan Greive ’23, Jack Hill ’22, Luke Kahle ’24, Cole Kendall ’22, Daniel Mayer ’22, Jay McCuen ’24, James McMahon ’23, Jason Muraca ’23, Andrew Olmsted ’22, Michael Stagnaro, Jr ’25, Trey Voss ’23, Andrew Zimmerly ’22. 4. Matt Fisher and Devon Fooks, both from the Class of 1988, went fly fishing on the Pecos River in New Mexico. 5. All 19 of the Jim and Rosemary Schuermann family vacationed for a week in the Virgin Islands to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary and Chris and Jen’s 25th anniversary. Pictured here are L to R: Jim ’65, Chris ’89, Rosemary - retired St. X Student Support Service Coordinator and Jason ’24.
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1. and 2. Alumni gathered in Dallas, Texas, at the Salum restaurant in August. 3. Friends from the Class of 2021 send-off dinner at The Precinct. L to R: Front row: Michael Walsh, Tommy Dennison, Shaan Ahuja, Grant Pearson. Second row: Michael Nicely, Adi Nair. Last row: William Jaun, Jimmy Gott 4. Annual Hilton Head Island trip for the Gick and Ahuja families. Posing after dinner at Skull Creek Boathouse. Back Row L to R: Shaan Ahuja ’21, Ethan Gick ’21, Taj Ahuja ’23 and Ryan Gick ’23. 5. These four cross country teammates from the Class of 2018 have road tripped every year since graduation. Pictured at the Grand Canyon are Jack Brinker, Peter Dauenhauer, Michael Holly and Jack Hands.
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X-Peditions 1. Class of ’49 Luncheon at Price Hill Chili. L-R: Jim O’Connell, Jack Herb, Ben Koenig, Leo Taske, Jim “Séamus” Roche, and Joe Deidesheimer. Photo by Leo Taske, II, ’81 2. L-R, Ryan Finan ’07 and CPT, Shaun M. Carroll ’07 pose at Mount Anderson, Olympic National Park 3. Gathering to support Adam Mathews ’06 (second from left) who is running for State Representative, are Keith Ruehlmann ’06, Matthews, Rocky Boiman ’98, Mike Odioso ’81, Charles Galvin ’05, and Cameron Sagester ’11.
4. Lucas Tereck ’20, represents St. Xavier in Paris, France in July.
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1. Left to Right: Dr. Steve Gay ’02, Jonathan Cole ’12, John Cole ’85, Dr. John “Bobby” Luchsinger ’02, Dr. Patrick Reilly ’02, Joe Fiorito ’02. 2. The Indianapolis Alumni Chapter reunion was July 25 where they gathered and attended the Indianapolis Indians-Toledo Mud Hens game. This chapter meets regularly and also sponsors the tuition of a St. X student through the Loyola Club program.
3. Alex Childs ’92 shared this photo of his two sons on a visit to Aruba. Conor Childs (on the right) is a freshman this year, Class of 2025, and is very excited to be a Bomber! Alex’s younger son, Brendan Childs, can't wait until it's his turn to join the Long Blue Line, Class of 2028! 4. Left to right, Nicholas Perera ’18, Christian Imbus ’17, Grant House ’17 taking the Long Blue Lane all the way to Omaha, NE to compete in the Olympic Trials. Scott Sobolewski ’20 also participated in the trials was not available for the photo. 5. Lake Leelanau Mass Reunion July 10, 2021. Pictured from L to R: Johnny Voss ’20, Trey Voss ’23, Max Rohs ’23, Joey Voss ’18. Mass was hosted by Jim Grogan (Class of 1972- not pictured).
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X-Peditions 1. St. X Boy Scouts Quinn McLaughlin ’22 (Eagle), Owen McLaughlin ’24 (Star) and Ben Nichting ’24 (Eagle) had an adventure of a lifetime at Philmont Scout Ranch in Colfax County, New Mexico. They hiked 7-10 miles a day, at high elevations, while carrying their gear, food and water on their backs. They learned how to shoot rifles, ride horses, lay railroad track, and participated in a conservation project to help minimize forest fire damage in that area. These young men came home stronger in mind and body. Photo provided by Boy Scout Troop #967 Chartered by Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fairfield, Ohio. 2. The Rob Jung family Ft. Lauderdale trip,
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pictured from L to R: Mathias Jung ’11, Alex Jung ’09, Robby Jung ’14, Rob Jung ’82 and Joe Wells ’08. 3. Luke Kahle ’24 and James Ogburn ’24 celebrating a successful first year at St. X on the shores of Elk Lake in northern Michigan.
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is Timothy J. Miller ’68 in Fargo, ND. North Dakota was his 50th and final state. The Fargo Welcome Center has a "Best for Last" Club for those (a goodly number - enough to form a club) whose 50th state to be visited is North Dakota. 5. Trey Lampley hanging out in Chicago with CJ Hilliard, both from the Class of 2018. CJ is getting his PhD in Chicago and Trey is in a predoctoral dermatology research year at Northwestern. The Long Blue Line!
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X-Peditions What is up? You can let us know in a variety of ways–send a photo for our X-Peditions feature or tell fellow Bombers about your wedding, a recent move, your latest promotion, a family addition, your retirement or other news via the Alumni X-cerpts pages. Just fill out and send in the form below. We’re looking forward to hearing from you soon. Mail the form to: St. Xavier High School (Magazine), 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, OH 45224 Fax: 513-761-2586 or E-mail: egormley@stxavier.org
Name St. Xavier Class Year Home Address
City State
Zip
Home Phone Cell Phone E-mail Address Business Firm Your Position Business Address
City State Work Phone Spouse’s Name Maiden College(s) Attended/Degree(s) Earned Year(s) Graduated News About You
Reunions Twenty individual class reunions were held on campus beginning the weekend of September 24 and will end with reunions for the Classes of 2015 and 2016 on Friday, November 26! If you have any questions regarding Alumni Events, please contact Eric Gammarino, Director of Alumni Relations, at egammarino@stxavier.org
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Calendar
Alumni Gatherings and School Events Fall/Winter 2021
November
January
4 Annual Fund Phonathon Call Night 7 p.m. 7 First Canned Food Drive Canvass 9 Annual Fund Phonathon Call Night 7 p.m. 10 Golden and Then Some Reunion 11 Annual Fund Phonathon Call Night 7 p.m. 12 Opening Night: TX Performance Lives of the Saints
December 1-2 Christmas Concerts
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Classes Resume
3 Mass of St. Francis Xavier
17 Martin Luther King Day - No Classes
5 Third Canned Food Drive Canvass
28 TX Illuminations
8 Feast of the Immaculate Conception Mass
WELCOME! Please join us in
11-12 Choir Christmas Dinner
welcoming Carly Ems to the St. X community!
15 1962 Annual Christmas Mass and Lunch 1956 Luncheon
Carly joined our team in
23 Begin Christmas Break
event coordinating
late August and brings with her extensive
14 Open House - Get the St. Xavier Advantage!
experience.
21 Second Canned Food Drive Canvass 24-26 Thanksgiving Break 26 2016 Reunion
Welcome to the St. Xavier Community! New St. Xavier High School Faculty and Staff for the 2021-22 School Year: From left to right: Lindsey Ferguson (College Advising), Brandon Dean (Makers Space, Facilities, Wrestling Head Coach), Rhonda Arledge (Career ConneXions), Joseph Parise (Science), Sarah Morman (Community Service), Emily Nutley (MTSS Coordinator), Brendan Ryan (Mathematics), Daniel Reed (Science), Nick Mayrand (Campus Ministry), Gail Chang (Community Service), Tricia Renneker (Admissions), Mary Beth Bruns (Advancement) and Jeff Winkelman (Information Technology). Not pictured: Carly Ems (Advancement) and Joe Penno (Athletics)
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S AV E T H E D AT E
Athletic Hall of Fame February 10, 2022
To nominate someone or sponsor next year’s event, please visit stxavier.org/athletics/halloffame or scan QR code.
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