St. Thomas Eagles' Nest Spring 2016

ST. THOMAS HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

S pring 2016

’16 Spring Eagles’ Nest

EVENTS APR 16.............................. Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

APR 20............... Academic Awards Ceremony APR 22................... 45th Annual Mothers’ Club Style Show and Luncheon

MAY 3........................................... GDK Dinner

Eagles’ Nest

DEPARTMENTS

10 EAGLE SPIRIT

St. Thomas is ranked among the leading allboys schools in the United States and four Eagles are named finalists in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program.

34 EAGLE FAITH

The annual All Souls Day Mass again honored the spiritual bond that unites Eagle students with their fathers ... a celebration and affirmation which speaks to the authentic Basilian fabric of the St. Thomas identity.

MAY 9...................... 25th Annual St. Thomas Golf Tournament

MAY 12........................ Spring Music Concert MAY 20.......................... Baccalaureate Mass MAY 21................Commencement Exercises www.sths.org/webcalendar

Eagles’ Nest Printed April 2016 The Eagles’ Nest is published three times a year by St. Thomas High School 4500 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77007-7332 | 713-864-6348

40 EAGLE FIGHT

St. Thomas Football schedules three new public school clashes while maintaining three of the city’s most valued private school series ... and Eagle Basketball, Swimming and Wrestling enjoy deep postseason success.

Rev. Kevin Storey, CSB - President Rev. Patrick Fulton, CSB - Principal Chris Westman - Assistant Principal Tim Clarkson - Dean of Students Eve Grubb - Vice President of Finance Mark deTranaltes ’83 - Vice President for Advancement Keith Calkins - Director of Communications Darla Arter - Layout and Design Assistance Provided By: John Michael Cuccia ’05, Chris Hodge, Fine Arts Dean Mike Nebel, Molly Hittinger, Joanie South-Shelley Some photos provided by STH Publications Staff Circulation 9,500 c2016

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55 EAGLE PRIDE

Alumni enjoy another high-rolling night at the annual Casino Night and mad-hop Reckling reunion in the 3-on-3 Alumni Tournament.

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FEATURES

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“... this reflects our values and needs for furthering our mission for the next 25 years and beyond.”

“... a brotherhood and community that constantly resonates with people and friends who are generating new levels of financial spport for the school.”

“... whatever the future holds moving forward ... I will trace the roots right back here to St. Thomas”

Ninth Annual Scholarship Breakfast Embraces Gratitude and Giving

Horan ’62 - Houston’s Resident Irish Embassador

Master Move-In Plan to Joplin Campus Unveiled

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Association of Fundraising Professionals Honors 4500Forever Campaign “... a salute to our remarkably generous alumni, parents and friends who are generating new levels of financial support for the school.”

Yet Another Record-Smashing Round-Up Raffle Result

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“How do I say thank you to so many people who I don’t really know, those have given me a key to the rest of the my life.”

McGowan Makes His Mark with USA Rugby

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“I have so much respect for the Basilians for what they taught me.”

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Eagles’ Nest

COVER STORY

4500FOREVER

FINISH STRONG Fuels Joplin Campus Expansion

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ore than a decade ago St. Thomas identified three essential growth areas to propel the school into its second century of teaching goodness, discipline and knowledge in the tradition of the Basilian Fathers.

Critical to continuing its acclaimed academic excellence as one of the leading all-boys schools in the United States are an enhanced resource center serving science, technology, engineering and mathematics (subjects collectively known as STEM) ... additional athletic fields and campus green space ... and a thriving student center to meet the social, recreational and co-curricular necessities of STH’s ever-diverse student population.

The vision is beginning to take definitive

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shape with the recent unveiling of the move-in master plan for the Joplin Campus expansion funded by the 4500Forever capital campaign.

“The response from our collective community is that this plan reflects our values and our needs for furthering our mission for the next 25 years and beyond,” president Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB said.

The design team at Kirksey Architects set out to create a unifying campus experience. One of the four largest architecture firms in Houston with a long-standing relationship with the school which dates more than 25 years crafted a final blueprint after nearly a year of deep dialogue with various STH boards, administrative and land acquisitions teams, plus current faculty and staff.

Vice President for Advancement Mark deTranaltes ’83

“The immediate strategy was to maximize the physical property before the deep dive into maximizing the additional classrooms and offices,” Vice President for Advancement Mark deTranaltes ’83 said. “Kirksey proved to be attentive listeners and really captured the culture and spirit of St. Thomas.”

The renovated Joplin Campus will also house a much anticipated student center dedicated to giving students the best outof-classroom experience possible featuring a range of resources to meet their daily needs while fostering personal growth as they arrive early on campus or remain into the early evening hours.

Moving STH’s existing weight room and adjacent locker room to an athletic performance and conditioning space on the Joplin Campus expands the science program with valuable classrooms and innovative technical labs for STEM curriculum which emphasizes a collaborative and applied approach to the four specific disciplines while providing students with a foundation to pursue a number of growing, in-demand careers.

4500Forever Finish Strong is raising the necessary $12 million for the Joplin Campus redevelopment. Currently 25% of that monetary goal has been reached with St. Thomas scheduled to take control of the property May 2017.

President Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB

“On Day One we want bulldozers at the curb ready to immediately push our plan into a reality,” Fr. Storey said. “If Finish Strong becomes prolonged ... we won’t have that freedom. There’s great appre-

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Eagles’ Nest

COVER STORY

CONTINUED

ciation in what our campaign has achieved financially in raising $54 million to purchase the land, but in terms of facilities we must embrace the same hyper-urgent diligence if we want to be able to respond to the needs of our expanding enrollment.”

Fr. Storey and deTranaltes agree that Finish Strong is the operative description for the 4500Forever campaign final stage ... both believing that the satisfaction in conquering the final objective is what promises to become what is most memorable about the most ambitious fundraising effort in the school’s 115-year history.

lighting and all the amenities necessary to maintain the rich winning tradition of the program.

“For all the history and for all the great players and coaches who are synonymous with Fr. Wilson ... we honestly have outgrown the present location,” Netzel said. “This move gives us a much larger physical footprint. The setting takes advantage of the the surrounding residential neighborhood on Dickson Street ... the same dynamic views of downtown ... and allows for alumni gathering areas. Eagle supporters are among the best in the city and they’ll enjoy the more spacious fan-friendly facility.”

“When you examine our donor list ... it’s Two-time Eagle championship coach and more than 2,000 names deep ... incredibly Houston Astros Hall of Famer Craig Biggio impressive,” deTranaltes said. “When you along with prominent Eagle baseball alumni look at the top contributors ... St. Thomas such as Frankie Mandola ’65, Ted Nowak will always be eternally grateful for their phi’70, Chris Patronella ’75, Jeff McCurry lanthropy. But without the entire group we ’88 and Adam Zornes ’04 were consulted on wouldn’t be positioned for our next defining the relocation and gave unanimous approval. moment. As we like to say, it has never been about equal gifts, but rather, equal sacrifice, Filling the Fr. Wilson Field vacancy will and that’s the fuel which will drive us to finbe two natural grass practice fields to serve ish strong. No different than what St. Thommany of the 12 varsity sports of a surging as has instilled in its students for generations Final magical moment for 2014 state Eagle athletic program which has captured ... maximizing talents and treasures.” baseball champions an unprecedented six consecutive TAPPS all-sports awards.

The redevelopment begins with creating a new and improved Fr. Wilson Field for Eagle baseball which will become the one of the latest jewels among STH’s everexpanding facilities ... much more than a mere makeover for the home of 23 state champions since 1953.

“I truly believe it’s an opportunity to celebrate Fr. Wilson for all that he’s meant to St. Thomas and amateur baseball in Houston with a showcase venue,” athletic director Mike Netzel said.

The ball park repositioned to the northeast area of the Joplin Campus will include artificial turf ... expanded playing dimensions, spectator seating and media area ... state-of-the-art

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“This is the next logical step in building upon our success,” Netzel said. “The real priority is greater flexibility and having student-athletes home at earlier hours. We can have lacrosse and rugby working at the same time without interference plus have Hotze Field with the surrounding track available. It’s the smartest use of space for the greater good ... athletics on the perimeter with an open commons in the heart of campus which will accommodate Round-Up, Auction, intramurals and student nights.

And with a bigger and better Fr. Wilson to go with Reckling Gymnasium and Granger Stadium ... few high schools in the state or region would be able to match what we can offer.”

Cardinal DiNardo Speaks to

4500FOREVER & Joplin Campus Expansion

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s St. Thomas continues the concluding phase of the most ambitious capital campaign in the school’s 115-year history, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, believes completing the 4500Forever financial initiative and implementing the Joplin Campus expansion is critical not only for the future of St. Thomas but for Catholic education in Houston.

“We obviously want and need Catholic formation to continue to bloom and blossom throughout the community,” Cardinal DiNardo said. “For generations St. Thomas has been at that forefront and this is a significant statement that the school will continue a strong and secure lead position. It’s a promise that more and more St. Thomas students will be saturated in the word made flesh, which is becoming increasingly more important as the world tends to be highly reductionistic.”

GREAT THANKS

to all those who participated in the 4500Forever Finish Strong Open House on the Joplin Campus.

Passionate Eagle alumni, parents and friends have given back in ways great and small to an unprecedented capital campaign ... not in a pursuit of others but rather in pursuit of the total measure of our Basilian mission.

For the latest updates and to particiapte in Phase II please visit sths.org/4500Forever.

Eagle Fight Never Dies!

2015 National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon which also recognized the Baylor College of Medicine, the BristolMyers Squibb Company and the Cullen Trust for Health Care, among others.

“Prestigious company without question.

Honor of the highest order,” Cardinal DiNardo said. “The recognition speaks volumes to the respect for the monumental effort so far. For decades St. Thomas has maintained a sterling reputation, even among those who are not Catholic or those with little to no faith. There’s a love of knowledge here, a love for the disciplined manner in approaching and acquiring knowledge. That works like a bank in so many fields of endeavor and throughout the marketplace. St. Thomas graduates are proven to be prepared moving forward in their lives, regardless of what direction their calling takes them. The outside distinction is a confirmation of so much what St. Thomas represents.”

4500Forever is anchored Cardinal DiNardo by the legacy was invited to commitments campus as prinfrom Jane and cipal celebrant Bill Joplin ’54 and homilist and Dona and for the annual Al Clay ’61, Mother / Son raising nearly Mass in Reckling $55 million Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston Gymnasium on in securing the Feast of the the adjacent Immaculate Conception of the Blessed 11-acre property which will provide an Virgin Mary. essential physical expansion to assure a thriving and vibrant STH future.

“As local shepherd I consider these The Finish Strong Phase II will generate visits very important ... to pay heed to our the final $12 million of the campaign and schools ... celebrate the Eucharist,” Cardinal DiNardo said. “On this particular day I include necessary monies for building want these young men to recognize that in renovations and updates. a culture where any acceptance of depenRecently STH was selected among the dance is looked upon as a negative, on 2015 honorees by the Houston Chapter of some level they will always be dependant the Association of Fundraising Professionals on their mothers. That maternal influence for the ongoing 4500Forever financial is extremely significant, never a refleceffort which received distinction in the tion of achievement. I find that without category of Outstanding Fundraising acknowledging that presence, without that Program, More Than $2 Million. understanding, many individuals in fact become less a man.”

The AFP announcement was part of the

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Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

ONGOING

4500FOREVER CAMPAIGN

Earns Prestigious Fundraising Award St. Thomas has been selected among the 2015 honorees by the Houston Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals for the ongoing 4500Forever capital campaign which received distinction in the category of Outstanding Fundraising Program, More Than $2 Million.

4500Forever continues to be the most ambitious financial effort in the school’s 115year history, anchored by the legacy commitments from Jane and Bill Joplin ’54 and Dona and Al Clay ’61, an ongoing effort to raise more than $60 million in securing the adjacent 11-acre property which will provide an essential physical expansion to assure a thriving and vibrant STH future.

Fr. Storey, Clay and the Joplins were joined at the awards luncheon by 4500Forever co-chairs Suzanne and Danny Grant ‘78, Vice President for Advancement Mark deTranaltes and Vincent Giammalva ‘80 who is cochairing the Finish Strong Phase II of 4500Forever.

“This award is an incredibly affirming statement and a tremendous honor for the St. Thomas Advancement team.

More importantly, this is a salute to our remarkably generous alumni, parents and friends who are generating new levels of financial support for the school and the devoted group of volunteers who believe in our vision to ensure our collective success.”

– Rev. Patrick Fulton, CSB President of St. Thomas High School

The AFP announcement was part of the 2015 National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon which also recognized the Baylor College of Medicine, the Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and the Cullen Trust for Health Care, among others.

“That’s a phenomenal group with which to be associated,” Fr. Storey said. “I take that we all share a devotion to excellence, to giving back. When you live with a generous spirit, you can change the world. Not always in the same dramatic ways as others but in your own way. St. Thomas has done that and is doing that, our alumni are doing that, and the results may be just as impactful as higher profile examples.”

In December 2015 the Basilian Fathers and the St. Thomas Board of Directors honored the Joplins for their significant leadership gift by naming the expanded STH footprint as the Jane and Bill Joplin Campus.

President Fr. Storey (left), with STH Board Finance Chairman Robert O’Brien ’82, Vice President of Finance Eve Grubb and Principle Fr. Fulton, CSB

Fr. Storey was presented by Kim Sterling, the founder and president of Sterling Associates, a Houston-based consulting

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firm which partners with St. Thomas through the completion of 4500Forever.

That same month Clay’s remarkable generosity resulted in the naming of Clay-Storey Hall on the STH main campus, recognizing two visionary leaders who boldly stepped out to help give rise to this extraordinary period in STH history.

President Fr. Storey with members of the 4500Forever team

“You have to have a passion and you have to be unwavering, completely devoted to the goal,” Clay said of the collaborative 4500Forever achievement. “Every St. Thomas alum and supporter who contributed to this campaign understands where we were headed and how we were going to get there.”

Joplin is “continuingly struck with a strong sense of pride that we all did something which will make a profound difference.

St. Thomas wasn’t going to acquire the land, move forward and remain revalent unless we all stepped up and made something big happen. It’s just an awesome feeling.”

The recognition by AFP comes in the wake of STH earning Top Workplaces by the Houston Chronicle for the second

consecutive year.

Yet many leaders within the 4500Forever effort echo that the truest measure of acclaim and accomplishment will be the future generations of Eagles learning, living and growing within a community ever mindful of its commitment to building on the traditions it cherishes most - teaching goodness, discipline and knowledge in the tradition of the Basilian Fathers.

“Education is the most important opportunity you can provide,” Clay said. “An untold number, an exponential number will be impacted by this expansion. That domino effect is what’s critical. Not just affecting today and tomorrow but forever.”

4500 forever.

President Fr. Storey with 4500Forever co-chair Danny Grant ’78 (left) and Phase II cochair Vincent Giammalva ’80

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EARNING THE GRADE

STH

RECOGNIZED Among Top Schools in the Nation

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t. Thomas is proud to be recognized as one of the most achieving all-boys schools by a national review.

A recent study from Pittsburgh-based Niche.com ranks STH among

the top-five institutions in the state and top 50 in the country based on SAT and ACT scores, college admissions, matriculation rates, parent surveys, culture and diversity grades, and student-teacher ratio.

“It’s not only about being rated by a score, but what the school does to get the student to the point where they achieve so highly,” principal Fr. Patrick Fulton said. “This is a tremendous acknowledgement of the curriculum, the teaching staff and associated support, the professionalism and direction of the counselling department, the athletic and co-curricular program, always with the goal of educating the complete student and grow our Eagles talents, gifts and abilities.”

Fifty percent of the measure was weighted between standarized college readiness exams, plus the number of students who attend top colleges, where STH earned an A+ rating.

“St. Thomas has scientifically and systematically incorporated a system of graduated challenge and accompanying support that stretches a young man to do his utmost best,” Fr. Fulton said. “You only get high performance of students if you have a staff with high expectations of themselves and who are dedicated to bringing students up to the next level.”

The distinction by Niche.com comes in the wake of an aggressive St. Thomas initiative headed by Fr. Fulton and president Kevin Storey, CSB along with prominent STH board members who are collaborating within a Top 10 Committee designed to engage a wide range of traditionallly acclaimed all-boys schools throughout the country.

“We’ve already established in depth dialogue and conducted a number of on-sight visits outside the region to gain as much first-hand relavent knowledge of their success model as we can,” Fr. Storey said. “We’re evaluating 11 critical categories, ranging from academics to athletics, campus ministry to fine arts, counseling to advancement to alumni relations, the entire gamut. This latest ranking gives us a benchmark to see where we currently stand, and where we can continue to grow our identity, not in an effort to pursue others but to realize the total measure of our Basilian mission.”

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STH

Continues Acclaimed National Merit Tradition

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ameron Parker ’16, Josef Lawrence ’16, Anton Poral ’16 and Wayne Babineaux ’16 have been named finalists in the 61st annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation made the announcement February 18, 2016.

“Each of our distinguished students are unique individuals with their own interests, a testament that there is no cookie cutter formula for academic talent and success here at St. Thomas,” principal Fr. Patrick Fulton, CSB said. “We are blessed to have an enrollment with all kinds of abilities and our community is richer for that diversity.

Each of the finalists have their own interests apart from their academic pursuits which promotes our goal of enriching the complete student.”

Since 2014, nine STH scholars have earned at least the semifinal phase of one of the nation’s most prestigious college scholarship programs.

These select STH academic achievers who have advanced to the finalist level now have an opportunity to compete for more than 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth $33 million and earn the Merit Scholar title.

One hundred percent of STH graduates annually graduate to colleges and universities. In 2014-15, 152 Eagles were awarded nearly $8 million in scholarships and grants, advancing to more than 60 acclaimed institutions throughout the United States, including Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Texas Tech University, Baylor University, Southwestern University, the United States Air Force Academy, Princeton University, Purdue University, Fordham University, St. John’s University (NYC), Washington and Lee University, the University of Virginia and the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles, among many others.

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Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE Saluting Another Rousing Record

ROUND-UP D

eja Vu ... all over again.

Just when conventional reason and rationale would suggest Round-Up raffle sales couldn’t be bigger, better and more robust ... an ever-energized Eagle student body discovered a late surge to a record-smashing total for the 13th consecutive year and reached the $500,000 threshold for the first time in St. Thomas history.

Stealing a script from precisely one year ago when an aggressive final Friday rush fueled a difference-making result ... the Senior Board ignited a sales outburst which generated a stunning $50,000 in the last hours leading into the late afternoon reveal.

The assembled crowd at Hotze Field inside Granger Stadium exploded with the announced total of $500,001 ...

$20,000 more than the standard set in 2015 ... with all monies annually and always devoted to St. Thomas tuition assistance, a Basilian practice which dates for nearly 90 years.

“The Senior Board simply seized ownership down the stretch,” principal Fr. Patrick Fulton said with noticeable pride after the sixth Round-Up on his watch. “I didn’t think they had any more depth of contacts ... all appearances suggested they had exhausted their efforts and wouldn’t be able to break last year’s record. And then they crushed it. But from the very beginning each year there is so much more to Round-Up than brick and mortar.

The students present a compelling story which connects with the public ... a brotherhood and community ... that consistently resonates with people and translates into support. Great ambassadors. God

The top 10 raffle sales sellers who set Round-Up record pace for 2016.

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bless them all and all who responded.”

Leading a strong 1-2-3 sales finish from the Class of 2017 was David Hotze ’17, out front in individual results for the third consecutive year, his $17,460 advancing his own three-year total to a staggering $107,150.

Tucker Britt ’17 was next on the tote board with $16,000, followed by Asher Price ’17, his $12,260 placing him among the top 10 for the third straight year.

Christopher Kjellqvist ’16 led the senior effort with $10,400 while Shawn Pham ’16 ($9,640) was top-five overall and Dominic Patronella ’16 ($6,000) top-six for the fourth straight year.

Rounding out the 2016 Roundup top-10 were Daniel Dolan ’17 ($5,940), Noah

and included an informational update from president Kevin Storey, CSB and director for advancement Mark deTranaltes with a subsequent tour of the adjacent Joplin Campus ... an expansion funded by the ongoing 4500Forever Finish Strong capital campaign.

“This event touches so many lives. We have Eagles from the 1960s recounting their stories ... how they filled their sales quotas and how they have helped Eagles do the same for years. Sunday is the embodiment of why this tradition thrives in the midst of contemporary culture shifts ... alumni returning with young children ... small reunions in so many corners of campus ... connecting with classmates and faculty. This is one of our most striking examples of what it means to be an Eagle for life.”

– Rev. Patrick Fulton, CSB

New popular additions adding to the tradition of food, family and friends include the Third Annual Horseshoe Tournament ... plus a much anticipated afternoon of entertainment in Cemo Auditorium which included faculty band No Late Work ... featuring Dan Green and Fr. Jim Murphy, CSB. From the thriving Big Red Market to the mechanical bull ... the beer garden to the dunking booth ... petting zoo to face painting ... Fr. Fulton recognizes “a sense of generation commitment” for why RoundUp seems to separate from so many fundraising projects which exist within virtually any private school in the country.

President of St. Thomas High School

The grand prize Toyota Tacoma Trunk won by A. Bielstein on a ticket sold by Connor McLaughlin ‘16.

Round-Up chairs (l-r) Rebecca Rose, Andrea Anderson and Kathleen Brickley

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FEATURE

CONTINUED

SALUTING ALL Who Make Our Annual Round-Up An Authentic Eagle Event!

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relishing STH Return for Round-Up

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he annual Round-Up celebration is a force which has pulled many an Eagle back to the friendly confines from all corners of the state and region ... and most recently even a Boston College student who journeyed on his coveted spring break.

While others may have left BC searching for balmy beaches to tan, relax and party while escaping the mundane mid-semester college life ... here was one of St.Thomas’s own found rocking in Cemo Auditorium with the faculty member band brilliantly billed as No Late Work.

But then again, Fr. James Murphy, CBS doesn’t fit the conventional college breaker profile.

His sabbatical from St. Thomas faculty and athletics has him enrolled in the acclaimed Lynch School of Education where he’s earning his masters in Educational Leadership ... a pursuit not so much centered on his own personal advancement but more directed to how he will better serve the Basilian Fathers into the future.

“I can already sense the impact of this program,” Fr. Murphy said in between embraces with assorted STH associates. “I’m getting a push to see and self-explain what is most important to me in education ... to articulate that vision ... whether my role is in administration, in the classroom, in campus ministry or in athletics. Define what you truly want for the best outcome for your students ... form that strategy and then execute.

It’s seizing a much deeper advanced theory and putting it into practice.”

The engagement has so far surpassed even Fr. Murphy’s own high expectations.

The Lynch School program emphasizes human dignity, social

justice and responsible global citizenship. And taking up residence with the Boston College Jesuits is providing an advanced education in and of itself.

“I’m living with guys from Zambia, Madagascar, the Congo, Germany, Slovakia,” Fr. Murphy said. “Wonderful group. Very welcoming. And they’ve made it clear I’m part of the community. The initials CSB after the name make no difference. We live together, pray together and share our daily experiences as one.”

The academic workload is three courses per semester ... from Organizational Theory to Instructional Leadership to Catholic Topics in Education.

“It’s harnessing a much different academic rhythm ... setting my own pace,” Fr. Murphy said. “For example, Education Law requires almost an hour just to print all the readings of a given week. My peers are educators from various backgrounds ... many experienced voices in the classroom discussion advancing major topics.”

Fr. Murphy relishes the obvious bonuses of being back on his familiar New England turf other than rediscovering wicked winters and the savory joys of chowda. He’s again near family in a comfort zone where he grew up before attending St. John Fisher College in Rochester, New York and then accepting his calling to Christ.

“A few weeks back I got to see my nephew wrestle in the middle school state championship and advance to the regional competition,” Fr. Murphy said. “I can regularly check in my sisters. I presided Easter Mass at my home parish for the first time since I’ve been ordained. Those are the things I have never really had a

chance to experience.”

But Fr. Murphy’s time reacquainting with and in Boston has also delivered a firm appreciation for his Houston home away from home.

“I miss the boys ... the St. Thomas life,” Fr. Murphy said. “You’re surrounded by so many who share the common mission and vision ... I miss being apart of that. This is a wonderful group of seniors who I’ve seen grow up and flourish. Matthew Ashbaugh pitching a no-hitter in his second start of the baseball season ... Michael Keating moving on to play football at the University of San Diego ... Travis Carroll and Wayne Babineaux continuing to expand their talents on the stage and in the classroom. Just a few of so many maturing as athletes and performers but more importantly as men. And I’m quick to share that pride with the Jesuits.”

Full disclosure ... Fr. Murphy invested only a portion of his discretionary time reconnecting with the Red and White. There was also a notable side excursion before returning to the Hub ... Las Vegas where the famed neon Strip rarely intersects with goodness, discipline and knowledge.

Well, perhaps not the knowledge Fr. Murphy prescribes.

“Met a close friend whose mother recently passed away,” he said. “She was dealing with hospice care for the last month and a half. So a group got together to care for her. We had access to a timeshare property. They planned all the particulars ... some shows ... some wine ... and cared for a good friend who had a rough winter. Vegas during spring break is what college students do, right?”

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AUCTION & GALA Salutes Milestone at Memorial Drive

F

ew high schools regardless of size cherish their signature history with the fervor of St. Thomas.

And one of the year’s most anticipated tradition-drenched weekends on the Eagle calendar lived up to the anticipation of a memorable evening which strengthens the STH community and benefits the St. Thomas General Fund.

The Campus Jubilee Auction & Gala ... saluting the 75th anniversary of St. Thomas at the current 4500 Memorial Drive address ... chaired by Melissa Dolan and Amy Huggins ... proved to be a milestone event which raised more than $550,000.

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The items which generated the highest transactions ...

• The “Up, Up & Away” Falcon 2000 jet trip

for anywhere in the United States or Mexico... generously donated by Jerry Dearing and Noah Dearing ’19 ... sold for $24,000.

• The “Sail the Grenadine Islands for 7 Days” ... generously donated by Bo & Amy Huggins ... sold for $18,000.

• The “Eagle 1 Golf Cart” ... generously donated by Marilyn & Robert Lozano ‘87 ... sold for $12,000.

• The “AKC Charcoal Gray Labrador Retriever” ... generously donated by Karen & Tom Green ... sold for $10,000.

Everyone in the STH community is indebted to Melissa and Amy for their tireless efforts in spearheading this effort ... and we all extend a great appreciation to the legion of volunteers who spent months preparing and then delivering another unforgettable event and celebratory atmosphere.

Eagle Fight Never Dies!

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Auction & Gala Donations Secure

WEATHER

STATION For STH Campus

T

he ever-important security of St. Thomas students has been further enhanced by a state of the art safety addition made possible through generous donations to the 75th Campus Jubilee Auction & Gala.

The WeatherBug Weather Station & Outdoor Alerting System recently installed on campus is part of Earth Networks which delivers accurate and relied upon information across many industries including government, energy, agriculture, education and transportation to safeguard lives, protect communities and maintain business operations.

Weathbug.com and the WeatherBug app alerts are available for Eagle students and parents to receive precise weather updates in real time, plus visualization

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and early warnings, so they may confidently stay current of developing or threatening conditions surrounding campus. An invaluable feature is the lightning safety program which sounds a horn on campus when lighting is 10 miles out or nearer.

STH is now enrolled in the worldwide WeatherBug network, with live data provided directly from campus that can be accessed by WeatherBug affiliates, including KHOU 11 News.

The system also enriches academic content in the science department, utilizing a portal where students can analyze, review and download data, as well as content for the Eagle Broadcast Network, featured on screens soon to be available in all of the science classrooms.

Later in 2016 the STH installation will also include an HD camera mounted on the parking garage which KHOU will be able to maneuver for images and views of downtown, the medical center and the bayou for its daily broadcasts.

Those who are involved with athletics and other outdoor programming / events will receive details soon from the IT department regarding usage of apps to monitor weather and lightning status. STH will also take steps to add the appropriate information to its emergency procedures and crisis management manuals.

The benevolent efforts of all those in the Eagle community whose financial contributions to the 2015 Auction & Gala led directly to this purchase are greatly appreciated.

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FEATURE

NINTH ANNUAL

SCHOLARSHIP

BREAKFAST Sparks Inspirational Stories

T

wo Eagles from the Class of 2016 shared a much deeper distinction than simply classmates following family legacies through the St. Thomas experience.

Wayne Babineaux ’16 and Nick Silva ’16 offered their inspiring personal STH stories at the Ninth Annual Scholarship Breakfast which salutes the philanthropy that provides more than $1.3 million into yearly tuition assistance.

“How do I say thank you to so many people who I don’t really know, those have given me a key to the rest of the my life, who have completely changed my life in so many ways,” Babineaux told the 270 donors, benefactors and supporters gathered in Cemo Auditorium.

“It’s not just the emotion of receiving an amazing gift that expresses your gratitude, it’s what you do in response. And that’s giving back. You improve yourself and improve the world around you. You have created a cycle a giving, one act of generosity at a time. That’s the legacy you all are creating.”

Babineaux and Silva are among the roughly 30% of the nearly 800 student enrollment who annually receive some form of tuition assistance, whether merit or financially based.

Silva talked of St. Thomas being his “second home” and his inspiration, uncle John Silva ’94, who was diagnosed with stomach cancer during Nick’s sophomore academic year and relocated to Houston to receive treatments at the MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Speakers Babineaux ’16 (left) and Silva ’16 with President Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB

“The year he lived with (my family) he retold his stories from St. Thomas,” Silva said. “Running cross country and playing soccer, the same sports I was involved in. Any time I was struggling in the classroom or had a rough day at practice, he offered his guidance. I cherish his words of advice to this day.”

John Silva passed in April 2013.

“At his rosary and funeral I met so many of his friends and couldn’t believe how many were St. Thomas alumni,’ Silva said. “I realized what a special place St. Thomas is ... in terms of our community, our drive and our willingness to help one another. I see my uncle’s class picture every time I walk through the main hallway. I know he’s always with me. Because of you (the benefactors) I had that opportunity.

Thank you for giving me the chance to make wonderful memories, to forge the friendships I will carry for the rest of my life and for instilling in me the purpose of giving.”

The STH Foundation Board overseas 77 named and endowed scholarships made possible by the generosity of contributors since 1969, with more than half established since 2000.

STH students are also eligible for sponsored grants such as the Basilian Fathers Inner City Schools Scholarships, the Basilian General Counsel Scholarships, the Tom and Nancy Marcrini Foundation Scholarships and Specs Scholarships.

Current president Thad Fuller ’76 has been on the STH Foundation Board since 2008 and fronts the management of the $15 million endowment.

Babineaux in You Can’t Take It With You

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“We are constantly working to grow that amount to better

serve the school,” Fuller said. “The Basilian Fathers are committed to providing students with a faith-based education ... developing the complete student through academics, athletics, fine arts and extracurriculars. St. Thomas is offering scholarships for as much as 50%, and as much as 80% for those in financial need. Many other Catholic schools cap their scholarships at 20-30% of tuition.”

Babineaux is a second generation Eagle (father Wayne ’94) and a four-year scholarship recipient who transitioned from Timberwood Middle School in Humble. He has excelled as a National Merit semifinalist and two-time TAPPS all-state performer in choir while also distinguishing himself in STH theatre and the Eagle Broadcast Network.

He readily admits that St. Thomas was the first institution to challenge him “academically, spiritually, intellectually and physically.” But his most satisfying accomplishments were not attained without resolve and determination.

“I already had a love of acting and expected to dominate here from the start,” Babineaux admitted. “But I auditioned (my freshman year) ... and wasn’t cast for the play. Over the years I worked harder for every performance, got better and better, but was never selected for the lead role. I was frustrated ... not satisfied with the part I was selected for... but I put my best into each character and eventually discovered it was the best part for me. Finally this semester I got the role of Tony in West Side Story. I learned modesty and how to work hard to get what I wanted, striving over four years toward a goal.”

Babineaux plans to pursue acting and business after his STH graduation, targeting New York University, the University of Southern California and Carnegie Mellon University, confident in “the values I’ve learned here with will stay with me wherever I go.”

Silva is the president of the STH Spanish Club, the photography editor of the award-winning and nationally recognized Eagle newspaper while actively involved in debate and campus ministry.

but we all come together for a very important reason ... to help in any way we can so that others may come to know the blessing that is St. Thomas.”

Fuller has served STH in a number of volunteer roles, from former chairman of the STH Golf Tournament, to various boards facilitating the purchase of the Joplin Campus property expansion which will enable STH to eventually increase its student enrollment to approximately 1,000.

But he takes a particular pride in the powerful impact the STH Foundation continues to make through the extensive scholarship program.

“At my table today were a couple of seniors with really impressive lists of universities they’re weighing for next year,” Fuller said.

“Duke, Harvard and the like. The money available from them to attend St. Thomas gave them that chance and they’re making the most of what promises to be a great future. That’s make me feel good and should make everyone in the room feel good.”

Yet Fuller understands a more meaningful and lasting measure of the St. Thomas experience beyond elite academic achievement and how the scholarship program is fueling the rise of significant learners and leaders who then become ambassadors for the next round of significant learners and leaders ... all connecting a brotherhood unlike any other.

“To this day I’m still connected with so many of my former classmates,” Fuller said. “They are life-long friends. Bobby McConn and Johnny Rynd serve on The Foundation Board with me. Philip Luna was St. Thomas Board president and my roommate for a year at the University of Texas. John Rathmell (current STH Board president) and golfing buddies such as Danny Grant, Luke McConn, John Long, Jimmy Burke, Stephen Russo, Charlie Giammalva, the Reckling Brothers, and Vincent Giammalva. Johnny Carrabba is my daughter’s godfather. The list goes on and on. God bless St. Thomas.”

He plans to attend the University of Texas (Austin) to study mechanical engineering, having already learned the giving doesn’t stop with a donation.

“I’ve come to love (St. Thomas) very much,” Silva said “Taking a look around this room I see how we’re all different

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in clubs and activities that a year ago, I never even thought about.

St. Thomas has not only opened new doors but has led me to the amazing brotherhood that is very much present here at St. Thomas.

Thanks to the St. Thomas staff and my Eagle brothers for a wonderful high school experience. ~ Member of the class of 2019

CURRENT ST. THOMAS

students Were Asked to Describe the Impact of Their Eagle Experience ....................................................

Here are a sample of the testimonials found in the Ninth Annual Scholarship Breakfast program

I am so grateful to have received my scholarship. Thanks to the kindness of the donations, I can have one of the most amazing and great high school experiences like playing sports, joining clubs, and having a great future. The scholarship program has really made a difference in my life and the peers around me. ~ Member of the class of 2018 St. Thomas students have an unbreakable bond, one kindled by our mission to learn goodness, discipline, and knowledge. Through our struggles with the challenges we face as St. Thomas students, we have changed, but not for the worse. As we have changed over the past few years we have narrowed our impossibly long list of new friends down to the ones we can call brothers. And even though we still maintain our friends, we are able to quickly call to mind the ones we can

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count on and truly call a friend. Every student here has a brother, even if they aren’t of the same blood. I can call St. Thomas my home because every time I walk down these halls I can recall my favorite spots, memories, classes, and know that I have family here. St. Thomas is family because even though we don’t always get along, we can still always count on each other when we need help. We can look at our brothers and know that we can trust them with anything. I’m proud to be an Eagle, because an Eagle can fly higher than the rest and has the endurance to keep going farther, even when their destination is out of sight. We will always reach our goal because we fight better than the rest. ~ Member of the class of 2017 St. Thomas has inspired me to go beyond my own knowledge and try new things. I am now participating

My experience here at St. Thomas High School has been amazing. Not only have I already made friends whose friendship last a lifetime, I have received the fullness of an education I could have only imagined. Thanks to this scholarship, I see myself having a bright future.

The financial aid and scholarship program have really done so much for me and I am blessed for it. ~ Member of the class of 2017 The St. Thomas scholarship program has allowed me to further my education in this great institution.

Without the generous donations from our benefactors, I would never be able to afford this type of education. I would like to express my boundless appreciation for everyone who supports me. ~ Member of the class of 2017 Going to St. Thomas has allowed me to critically think and have opinions for myself. I sincerely believe that attending St. Thomas is a truly unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else. I would never in a million years think that I would have mentally advanced this far from my 8th grade self. That’s what St. Thomas has given me. ~ Member of the class of 2017 I am having excellent experience at St. Thomas High School and I know it was in God’s intentions to have me attend this wonderful school. At St. Thomas I have made new friends and established lifetime bonds that no other school could provide me.

I am thankful to be a student at St. Thomas and I know in the future this will open many doors for me. ~ Member of the class of 2019 St. Thomas is much more than a school. It is a community of knowledge, faith, and brotherhood.

Thanks to generous donors, I have had the privilege of being able to come here every day for the past four years. The memories I

have made and the lessons I have learned, both inside and outside the classroom, will stay with me for the rest of my life. ~ Member of the class of 2016 Every year, we are reminded that we are all Eagle brothers. When I first told me this, I thought it was a lame and corny. But now that I’m a senior, I realized that this is actually true. I have made so many friends here, and like brothers, we hang out with each other, we eat with each other, we play sports with each other, we play music with each other, and we challenge each other. Without St. Thomas and my fellow Eagle brothers, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. ~ Member of the class of 2016 The life of a St. Thomas student is rigorous and every single day teachers stay after school to help students with questions they may have or stay after to review for an upcoming test. Brotherhood is also a part of a St. Thomas student’s life.

I myself having two brothers, I can relate to how brotherhood should be and St. Thomas’ brotherhood is as close as you can get to having a biological brotherhood. There are also so many different extracurricular activities students can choose from.

At St. Thomas there is some sort of activity for each student. ~ Member of the class of 2018 Looking back to when I was an eighth grader touring St. Thomas High School, I remember the awe that seemed to inhabit every corner of the large campus and the camaraderie that pervaded the atmosphere, both of which I have since experienced every day since my first day as a freshman. The friends, the teachers, the academics, everything continues to exceed my expectations and make me truly feel an integral part of the Eagle family.

Reflecting back on my decision to become an Eagle, I know it was one of the best choices I ever made. ~ Member of the class of 2018 St. Thomas has made me a better person who is more disciplined. My scholarship allows me to attend the best school in Texas. I know that by going to St. Thomas I am being prepared to do great things later in my life. ~ Member of the class of 2017

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Regional Scholastic Art Breakthrough....... p24 Eagles Explore Model United Nations Conference......................... p25 Inspired Co-Curriculum Experience.......... p26 Why I Teach ... and at St. Thomas............... p28

Hot Art Cool Jazz, p17

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P

Regional Scholastic Art Competition

atrick Rocha ’16 approached fine arts dean Mike Nebel during the early stages of the 2015-16 academic year with a declaration as simple in description as it was ambitious in scope.

Awards has served as one of the nation’s longest-running, most prestigious initiatives for creative teens, and the largest source of exhibition, publication and scholarships for young artists and writers.

“His goal was to achieve what no one else had done at St. Thomas,” Nebel recalled with a smile. “And he delivered.

Absolute determination.”

Breakthrough STH artist Rocha

Alumni include artist Andy Warhol ... writers Sylvia Plath, Myla Goldberg and Joyce Carol Oates ... actors Robert Redford, Alan Arkin and John Lithgow ... and filmmakers Ken Burns and Richard Linklater.

to New York for the National Scholastic which celebrates original work from all 50 states.

deLaunay’s success was born from a creative concept merging opposite or conflicting geometric shapes with resounding results.

Rocha rocked the first art portfolio in STH history to be judged in a national forum after his eight-piece ceramics collection earned Gold Key distinction at the recent National Scholastic Regional Art Competition. Two pieces from the collection were also recognized for individual Gold Key merit and three others received Silver Key excellence.

“Rocha did basically a year-and-a-half worth of work in one semester,” Nebel said. “Students have the opportunity to submit any combination of ceramics, paintings, drawings, photography from their four years in high school. He did 10 high-quality pieces with less than three semesters of experience. We selected eight for competition. Phenomenal creative work and execution.”

Rocha was the STH headliner as Eagles earned 12 overall awards from twenty-one single entries considered among more than 2,200 submitted by a deep pool of Houston-area private and public schools.

Aidan deLaunay ’16 matched Rocha’s two individual Gold Key awards and Jacob Duron ’16 produced a fifth which means STH represents five of the nine Gold Key regional winners advancing

“I couldn’t be more proud of the group,” Nebel said. “Last year we had four of the seven from Houston moving on to nationals. That’s a pretty good batting average.”

Among Rocha’s acclaimed portfolio included elaborate and distinctive teapots, bottles and vases, one of which stood more than 20 inches in height.

“Patrick used a new type of celadon glaze that we introduced last year,” Nebel said. “When it goes into crevices and carved areas it produces darker tones ... lighter when used on the edges ... medium colors when applied to the surface and flat areas ... so three values in that one glaze ... vivid accents and the perfect compliment to his work. He has great command of the necessary tools ... can push the clay in ways he really shouldn’t be able ... somehow finds a way to get away with it.”

Since 1923, the Scholastic Art & Writing

(L-R) McCollum, deLaunay, Duron, Rocha, Tellepsen, Hebert and Daly

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“Completely fresh approach,” Nebel said. “I was so taken that I’ve already adjusted the assignment for next year to make this a requirement. Aidan is the only student in my 37 years that prompted me to redefine the course description. In many ways that may be the highest form of compliment.”

Samuel McCollum ’16 (architectural drawing) received the fourth Silver Key for St. Thomas while James Hebert ’16 (drawing and illustration), George Daly ’17 (photography) and H.T. Tellepsen ’16 (ceramics) gained honorable mentions.

“Hebert was acknowledged for the second straight year. That’s a very difficult standard to maintain in one of the most demanding competitions ... many more entries than any other category,” Nebel said. “And this is the first time photography was a stand alone category. Those are two groundbreaking results for us.”

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Takacs: “... the ultimate in a teaching experience.”

Eagles Again Explore Benefits of

MODEL UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE

F

or nearly two decades Rod Takacs has encouraged stirring exchanges while conducting his history, government and legal studies curriculum.

“The value is that our students are learning beyond all the theoreticals of how these governmental organizations function.

Researching issues from the perspective of another country broadens their minds.”

– Rod Takacs

But rare is that valuable opportunity for his students to test in real world-type setting how constructive debate today ... can lead to solutions tomorrow.

Which is only one of the compelling reasons St. Thomas is a continued participant in the annual Houston Area Model United Nations (HAMUN) ... an education simulation that nurtures a global mindset while presenting the challenges of international negotiation and diplomacy.

Schools are assigned countries with each student serving as a delegate on a specific committee facing pre-determined topics ranging from security to economic and social progress and human rights ... all with the common goal of building consensus and passing resolutions.

Constructive debating alongside equally talented and informed opposition means they HAVE to reach some sort of conclusion based on majority opinion on what course the collective group should take. Extremely valuable to harness those necessary skills and then put them into practice.”

The 41st annual conference hosted by the University of Houston showcased more than 30 schools and 800 students from throughout Texas.

The STH contingent of Muzamil Abdullatif ‘17, Chris Bagale ‘17, Ryan Chandler ‘17, Pete Huggins ‘16, Mark Lacanilao ‘16, Kyle Paige ‘18, Asher Price ‘17, Damon Shekari ‘17 and Justin Van ‘17 were split into representing Spain or Chad.

The two-day exercise demanded crafted research along with convincing writing and public speaking skills applied in a practical context.

Chandler was a returning delegate from 2015 and able to utilize many of the skills honed through STH Forensics and anchoring the morning newscast on the Eagle Broadcast Network.

“I was fortunate this year to serve on two different committees for Spain, including the security council which is empowered to make executive decisions,” Chandler said. “I was in a much smaller venue with roughly 10 delegates, as opposed to a larger room with dozens of others, and was able to have my views heard in a much more in-depth debate.”

In the same tight confines with Chandler

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CONTINUED

was Shekari representing Chad with the two countries dealing with two specific contemporary conflicts ... the ISIS threat and subsequent Syrian refugee crisis ... and Russia’s annexation of the Ukrainian territory Crimea.

English faculty member Laura Thornton

“My job was to role play Spain’s position. No one is allowed to introduce any personal beliefs,” Chandler said. “That meant arguing essentially the West point of view synonymous with the United States ... advocating for increased harboring and refugee assistance ... minimizing the Russian influence in Crimea. I expected more cutthroat objectives among the delegates but there was a genuine collaborative effort to reach the same goal. Much like debate it’s a great exercise in rational analysis and judgment. You have to be well versed in events that matters ... issues that are typically reserved for adults.”

“It’s truly exciting and rewarding to see them take a position, defend that position and convince others that their approach is the right one. Just think of the life skills in play... how often in business are you in a position to propose the prefered path and then have to support that view in a substantive manner. For me ... this is the ultimate in a teaching experience.”

– Rod Takacs Shekari occupied a less commanding position given Chad’s ancillary geographical and military position, but seized opportunistic moments where his country could be of value, such as “providing intelligence gathering and a strategic hopping pad into Middle East.”

And while the engagement is designed to provide a peek into the complexities of international negotiation, the larger takeaway is a student experience that fosters critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.

“It’s great practice to look at all sides of an issue in context, who may be facing more risk, who stands to gain the most, the greater cause and effect, always understanding that compromise is the priority,” Shekari said. “The sessions are filled with intense back-and-forth but at the end of the day when the resolution is passed you feel as though you accomplished something.”

INSPIRATIONAL

CO-CURRICULUM PROJECT Merges AP Literature With Critical Analysis

English faculty member Laura Thornton routinely receives a flood of professional email material ... but one rather routine delivery to her inbox early in the spring semester sparked an immediate response and ignited an unexpected yet fulfilling challenge for her AP Literature students.

A contest sponsored by The Atlantic and The College Board invited students from across the country and beyond the borders to submit essays analyzing and interpreting an influential work of art.

Essays would be crafted between 1,000 and 1,500 words with one eventual winner emerging to receive $5,000 and publication in the September 2016 issue of The Atlantic.

Aside from the obvious incentive Thornton recognized a prime co-curricular opportunity for her twenty-seven accelerated students that would promote and develop those analytical writing skills critical to college and career success, and solicited the talents and insight of Fine Arts instructor Chau Nguyen to assist.

“Students had the freedom to select any piece of art,” Thornton said. “I would evaluate the how behind the writing ... how they would make their art accessible to others or persuade the importance. I needed Chao to provide the what ... the clarity of expression and sensitivity of analysis.”

Shekari ’16 at 2016 HAMUN

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Chandler ’16 at 2016 HAMUN

Nguyen conducted a 45 minute strategy session and chose for discussion A Bar at the Folies-Bergère ...

the last major work by French painter Edouard Manet (1832-83). The oil on canvas was created and exhibited at the Paris Salon one year before his death, the work exemplifying Manet’s commitment to Realism in its detailed representation of a contemporary scene.

The subject Suzon is a young woman who served at the Folies-Bergère, one of the great Parisian cafés-concerts.

She stands alone with both hands firmly on the bar with a detached almost melancholy look on her face and a vastly crowded room reflected in the glass behind her.

Nguyen encouraged the students “not to rush to an immediate judgement. Observe. Be patient to pick up clues. And then determine what you find meaningful of the effort and execution. Look for elements and principals ... lines, colors, shapes, texture, forms. How the artist arranged movement and rhythm ... proportions and emphasis.”

Nguyen was struck with how quickly the class engaged the dialogue.

“Many picked up on her expression and mood,” she said. “There was a real

attempt to dig below the surface. Why Suzon was the only person not reflected in the glass ... is she alienated by her surroundings ... what was the meaning of the sinister looking man in the top hat found in the right hand corner.

The students discovered there was no straightforward narrative but they were quick to apply context of history and how the role of women in that timeline might provide definition.”

Nguyen’s take-away from the exercise “was students making connections with a variety of disciplines. We all encounter art all around us but how many have the understanding to discuss with any depth.”

dynamic. Infusing that personal voice ... that’s the genuine emotion I was wanting to see.”

The College Board mandated a very specific scoring rubric for Thornton to grade the final essays and seven Eagle students broke the threshold for their work to be submitted to the contest.

Thornton also applied conventional grading for all the students to receive individual credit within the AP course.

But Thornton’s true intent was to measure success beyond potential prize money and publication clout or GPA impact ... that learning to write analytically is key to intellectual development.

The AP group produced their respective “I was impressed by the enthusiasm, the rough drafts before Thornton moved investment in the process,” Thornton them into a more demanding phase. said. “Many students made visits to the “I next wanted passion in the writing,” Museum District and other galleries Thornton said. “Some students who ... if not for the first time, then the first had a theology focus chose to respond time in a long time ... not satisfied just personally with beautiful religious art relying on images available through the works ... the Crucifixion or the dying internet or publications. This was our Virgin. Other students chose confirst foray into merging two curriculums temporary pieces which I wasn’t as and we will absolutely continue next familiar and I learned along with them. year ... promoting this ongoing converOne student even went with a musical sation about culture and society ... just interpretation ... applying a third artistic opens up another door for our students.”

Fine Arts faculty member Chau Nguyen

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St. Thomas continues to expand its faculty and staff with more than a dozen new members for the 2015-16 academic year, representing the highest academic credentials and proven expertise in their chosen professional careers.

n

Why do you teach at St. Thomas?

I earned my bachelor’s in Classical Languages and English Literature ... taught briefly in Northern California ... then seven years in a Dallas suburb (Creekview High School in Carrollton) ... earned my masters in Humanities, Ancient and Medieval Languages from the University of Dallas ... taught at Brooklyn College and then spent the last few years as a police officer working the midnight shift in northwest Washington, D.C., the murder capital of the northern District.

JOHN LEWIS Latin I, Latin II, Latin III / IV, and World Geography

n

Why do you teach?

I was fortunate to have several major influences, first in high school (Lakehill Preparatory in Dallas), then at Baylor University, who moved me in this direction. Teachers and professors who had me saying ... not only is this pursuit interesting but I genuinely love it, like to talk about and share it. Plus ... my mother, my grandmother, perhaps my great-grandmother, were all teachers so I grew up with a bit of pedagogy.

The teacher who really motivated me in college was my Latin professor ... Dr. Alden Smith (now the associate dean of the Honors College and director of the University Scholars Program). Incredible person. The striking aspect about the Classics is that it’s not a single subject ... it’s Latin, Greek, mythology, theology, religion, art, architecture, history, poetry all rolled into one.

Here’s how Latin relates to the modern world ... it teaches nonlinear problem solving ... same as geometry and computer science. Translation is not strictly left to right ... the most important words are featured first ... art as much as artifice.

That’s a very valuable skill for students who are inundated

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My wife decided on graduate school at the University of Texas in Austin. I was back in Texas and looking for an opportunity which combined motivated students and professional educators who were where they wanted to be. That’s the definition of St. Thomas.

What I expected to find and what has been confirmed in my first year is that my colleagues are here by choice and they really love what they’re doing. It’s refreshing to be in place where everyone means well ... no ulterior motivations or hidden agendas. Deceit isn’t the first response. Colleagues here are the first to assist, driven to do more, not less.

I believe it’s important for high school students to have someone to whom they can relate or be comfortable. Some may gravitate to a coach, others to an instructor, still others to a counselor or mentor. My path here certainly wasn’t a grand design, more happy result, and perhaps I can fit a different niche here through my social experiences that otherwise would not have been available.

The strength of any faculty is in its diversity and I’m fortunate to be part of that mix here at St. Thomas.

..........................................................................................................................................................................................

with scores of stimuli in today’s world where no is bored and no one is allowed to be bored. I really enjoy it and honestly am not that surprised that there remains an appetite for the material.

Meet some of the valuable additions who are committed to the core STH values of integrity, accountability, teamwork, leadership in mission and excellence ... enhancing the Eagle experience and influencing a brotherhood unlike any other.

..........................................................................................................................................................................................

n

Why are you a counselor?

Growing up in Houston I went to summer camp my entire life ... since I was eight-years-old ... Camp Champions in Marble Falls.

As I got older I found myself leading the younger campers and then during my years at Memorial High School I was a summer counselor for middle schoolers. I found that in that environment I always seemed more of myself ... free of technology and distractions ... that the people were very authentic.

It all led me to realize that kind of magic of having a role with kids as they develop their own goals and dreams, surpassing their own expectations, taking reasonable risks and then seeing the joy of their accomplishment. That interaction brought me the greatest joy.

I completed my undergraduate work (Louisiana State University) in psychology and thought ... “What do I want to do with my life?”

And I thought about the one thing that never felt like work ... mentoring teenagers. I earned my masters in School Counseling ... absolutely loved that ... then added my Education Specialist in Counseling Consultation ... which has been so valuable for me in meeting all areas of student transition ... from middle school to high school ... or high school to college. n

ROBIN WAGNER Counseling

Why are you a counselor at St. Thomas?

I served with schools in Baton Rouge for four years then returned to Houston two years ago. My position with Spring Branch ISD was thought to be student centered but morphed into more administration and disciplinary practices. My heart and passion is about working with kids. I was looking for a better fit when the opening at St. Thomas became available.

I had worked in public, private and virtual schools but at St. Michael Catholic in Baton Rouge I sensed there a huge sense of community ... the village raising the child ... and I missed that dynamic.

In interviewing with (Director of Counseling) Debbie Cogan ... what she stressed and what I have discovered to be true in these first few months ... is a total collaborative effort within our department. I work with freshmen and sophomores ... identifying their learning styles, developing academic study strategies, partnering closely with parents, discussing how social boundaries and responsibilities change for their sons as they navigate their new found freedom, in the classroom and out.

Plus, my EDS which emphasized post secondary transition enables me to connect with students in a personal way ... discussing what they expect from their college experience ... how they can separate during the admissions process ... what degree plans play to their academic strengths ... how they can plot a career path.

Having that background is an asset for me helping whatever student population I’m working with during an academic year.

I really wasn’t sure about working with single-sex enrollments.

But the spirit and camaraderie with all-boys is amazing. Their friendships appear to be closer. Their ability to focus without weighing particular social demands is evident. And I have to admit ... the first time I heard the boys sing the alma mater ... I teared up. I knew very quickly I had found my new home.

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Another Awesome Night of ....................................................................

HOT ART COOL JAZZ ....................................................................

EXTRAORDINARY EAGLES showcased their talent ... led by Fine Arts dean Mike Nebel,

faculty member Chau Nguyen, choir director Josh Wilson and band director Donald Thoede.

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t. Thomas Music again excelled at the annual Texas Private School Music Educators Association AllState Weekend.

Talented Eagles competed among students from more than 200 private schools in Texas to earn a position in one of the all-star groups which then rehearsed for three days before delivering a resounding performance at the Eisemann Center in Richardson, Texas.

Honored in Concert Band were Conrad Henry ’16, Adam and Josef Lawrence ’16, and Marco Orellana ’17.

All-state choir members were Travis Carroll ’16 (second, left), Joe Coleman ’16 (second, right) and Wayne Babineaux ’16 (right). Henry and Josef Lawrence were also received distinction for participating in the all-state ensemble for four years.

T

en St. Thomas scholars have been earned distinction from the National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP) through The College Board.

Conrad Henry ’16, Josh Harris ’16, Sean Brennan ’16, Thomas Quintero ’16, Josef Lawrence ’16, Julian Ramos ’16 and Nicholas Chavez ’16 each scored in the top 2.5 % regionally among Hispanic and Latino taking the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) / National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT), along with Noah Penny ’16, James Sullivan ’16 and Collin Filley ’16, who are not pictured.

The NHRP annually identifies academically outstanding Hispanic / Latino students and honors approximately 5,000 of the highest-scoring from more than 250,000 who take the PSAT / NMSQT. Although the NHRP does not provide a financial reward, the recognition often positions students with a competitive advantage when building the strongest possible application for college admissions.

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t. Thomas science faculty member Daniel Bryant was awarded the Alton L. Biggs Science Teaching Excellence Award by the Texas Association of Biology Teachers, a distrinction named for the founder of the TABT and announced at the 2015 Conference for the Advancement of Science Teaching.

The Briggs Teaching Excellence Award is selected by a committee comprised of biology teachers throughout Texas following a nomination process which requires

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letters of recommendation from administrators, coworkers and students, along with a full Curriculum Vitae detailing academic and research experience, and a presentation of a teacher’s philosophy on education.

Bryant was also officially installed as TABT president after elected to the position by the more than 500 person membership and serving as the president-elect for the 2014-15 academic year. Bryant’s term as president is for the entire 2016 calendar year.

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Bishop Brendan Cahill ’81, p 36

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ANNUAL

ALL SOULS MASS

AGAIN UNITES EAGLE

SONS WITH FATHERS

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he annual All Souls Day Mass once again honored the spiritual bond that unites Eagle students with their fathers ... a morning celebration and affirmation of faith which speaks to the very fabric of the St. Thomas identity.

The STH community was blessed to have the Superior General of the Basilian Fathers, the Very Reverend George Smith, CSB, in from Toronto to serve as the principal celebrant.

“This particular gathering brings alive what is best about St. Thomas,” Rev. Smith said. “We honor the fathers who have sacrificed in order for their sons to receive this fantastic educational experience. And you feel the love and appreciation in our students who are so proud to be with their fathers and grateful for all that has been provided for them.”

Rev. Smith delivered what he hoped to be a direct message through his homily that spoke to the true spirit of the event.

“I want these young men to hear and know that whatever they might do in their lives that is disappointing, whether to themselves or their parents, their fathers will always love them,” Rev. Smith said. “That unique love will always be there and there is nothing they could ever do to break it, in the same way that our own love and relationship with God will never be broken.”

For Jeff Jones ’78 the campus encounter marked his eighth Father / Son Mass in nine years, beginning with Andrew ‘11 and extending with Colin ’16 and David ’16 ... all part of a Jones family legacy dating back more than a half century, beginning with Jeff’s father, Scrapps ’48, and mother, Sy, who retired from STH after 33 years of service to the school.

Also in the Jones mix are Jeff’s two brothers, seven uncles and three cousins who are Eagle graduates.

This particular tradition wasn’t yet established when Jones was a student but he drew significant meaning from the series of shared experiences with his sons which added greater depth to their relationships.

Superior General Very Reverend George Smith, CSB

34 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

“I believe this is the best event on the school calendar,” Jones said. “Just a great example of the values St. Thomas stands for, the bonding that is so important in forming these young men. What better time to share with your

sons than attending Mass as an Eagle brotherhood, giving thanks for the many ways we’ve been blessed and for the opportunities these four years will likely create in their future.

It’s one of the many moments we’ll always remember.”

It was Rev. Smith’s first participation in the Father / Son Mass and the culmination for a frantic frequent flyer week ... beginning with a Vatican visit for meetings with Pope Francis, the Cardinal Prefect of the Congregation for Catholic Education and Congregation for Religious ... then to Houston for a Thursday conference with the board of directors at the University of St. Thomas ...

“I want these young men to hear and know that whatever they might do in their lives that is disappointing, whether to themselves or their parents, their fathers will always love them. That unique love will always be there and there is nothing they could ever do to break it, in the same way that our own love and relationship with God will never be broken.”

– Superior General Very Reverend George Smith, CSB

followed by an overnight flight through Chicago to his home base in Toronto to bury his aunt and godmother Friday morning ... all before returning to Houston for the Monday Mass at St. Thomas.

While in Rome Rev. Smith was struck during his one-on-one encounter with the Holy Father by “his incredible sense of gentleness and serenity. Here’s a man carrying responsibilities that I cannot even imagine and he seemed to possess an incredible inner peace which instantly made me feel as though my problems were quite irrelevant.

If he can maintain that level of calm with all the burdens he is carrying, that makes my life appear rather easy.”

Last Father / Son call for Colin ‘16, Jeff ‘78 and David Jones ‘16

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 35

Eagle

FAITH

B

ishop Brendan Cahill ’81 returned to his alma mater for the Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas and was met with an unexpected flood of emotion beyond leading the traditional Mass to honor the school’s legendary namesake.

the occasion. The spirit of friendship and community never changes. And I believe there’s always that same dedication from the faculty and staff to the students and the Basilians, to their mission of education. Tradition here is very strong ... to the values and to the truth.”

The principal celebrant spoke to the method of the patron saint of students and Catholic schools ... knowing the revered theologian has served as a particular personal inspiration in recent months.

When Bishop Cahill was ordained in 1990 he then joined the ranks of more than 50 fellow STH alumni priests.

“St. Thomas was that of the listening heart, to the people of his time, to reflect upon in his heart and then respond with his brilliance, all within the tradition of the Church, with confidence that Jesus Christ has given us all the answers if we pray for that gift of wisdom.”

The Bishop’s own daily devotion includes a prayer for Thomas-like clarity ... “to listen before speaking, understand before judging, love before acting” ... a spiritual compass Fr. Cahill has relied upon in making the transition to his new responsibilities as the divine leader of the Diocese of Victoria, Texas since his Mass of Ordination in June 2015.

“I pictured this first year and beyond as really getting to know people without preconceived judgements,” Bishop Cahill said. “I’ve visited with more than 3,000 students attending 16 schools, plus the area CCD programs. It’s all about building relationships.

“But there are also two immediate priorities. One is a counseling center with resources to support families with the needs. And we’re also enhancing our Spanish language ministry, both for the generations of Hispanics in the area and the newly arriving immigrants. Overall, it means bringing unity to an area with such a deep mix of diverse cultures. But that cannot happen successfully without a true understanding of the people.”

But maintaining such a liturgical legacy has proved challenging in recent decades with the overall number of candidates to the priesthood continuing its downward trend.

BISHOP CAHILL ’81

But Bishop Cahill is encouraged by the recent vocation of Clark Sample ’01, a 32-year-old semiReturns for Feast narian for the Diocese of Galvesof St. Thomas Aquinas ton-Houston now completing his intense and thorough study at Gregorian University in Rome, on course to becoming ordained in June 2016.

“Every generation of St. Thomas student is different, every year is different,” Bishop Cahill said. “To have Clark serve as that contemporary example of answering the call to serve God ... share his journey ... be that communicator for the youth to relate in a relevant way ... that’s just beautiful to see.”

Bishop Cahill closed his homily to the congregation by sharing his “deep sense of gratitude to be here with you today ... to let you know that my prayer for you from Victoria every day is for you to find the wisdom of Christ in your hearts.”

Bishop Cahill shared the altar in Cemo Auditorium with the St. Thomas Basilians, reminded of his deep roots with former STH principal Fr. Albert Gaelens, CSB, Fr. Cahill’s guidance counselor as a student, and long-time faculty and staff member Fr. Bob Glass, CSB. “They both had such great influence on me that is felt to this day,” Fr. Cahill said. “After my St. Thomas graduation Fr. Gaelens went out to dinner with me and my family. We’ve been close all these years. There’s always a great sense of belonging when I’m back on campus, regardless of

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Bishop Cahill ’81 at Feast Day Mass

Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

McGOWAN ’10 Makes Mark With USA Rugby, Aims for 2016 Summer Olympics

S

o much has changed for Kingsley McGowan ’10 since graduating from the somewhat cozy St. Thomas confines in 2010.

All-American and national championship rugby acclaim ... one of the first Americans to hoist a world rugby trophy for the United States ... competing for a famed club in Ireland ... a heart-felt homecoming representing the Team USA in Houston ... all perhaps leading to the world’s grandest athletic event at the upcoming Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

“What player wouldn’t dream of playing on that stage,” McGowan says during a brief return to the STH campus.

“The world stops every four years in the summer to watch the Olympics. It’s an amazing window for rugby to be exposed to so many who don’t know or follow the game. And words cannot begin to describe what it would mean to wear that uniform.”

“He’s a rugby superhero. A celebrity. I cannot open a web page and not see his face,” beams Brett Mills, the St. Thomas social studies dean and associate rugby coach who taught and mentored McGowan on the field and in the classroom.

What hasn’t changed for McGowan are the characteristics which define him well beyond the premium skill package which has made him a rising talent within the ranks of USA Rugby.

“He’s a wonderful person ... so grounded ... and that’s what strikes me more than anything else,” Mills says. “If the rugby were to stop tomorrow ... I would love him the same as a son. He was a great student and competitor here and has matured into an example of being a good man of St. Thomas. He is that rare individual who is liked by anyone who meets him. He’ll be a tremendous success whatever he chooses to explore.”

But the initial pull to the sport wasn’t so much a matter of McGowan choosing rugby ... more like Mills and rugby choosing McGowan.

“I told him ... you can become a superstar,” Mills says. “I had watched him play basketball ... saw the great vision and aggressive nature ... believed that would translate directly to our game. Gave his father the same script.”

But the McGowans were both highly skeptical in 2009 ... to say the very least.

“I had to work Erwin hard,” Mills says. “Hard. Finally he trusted me enough and Kingsley made a leap of faith his junior year. And even in those first days and weeks on the field adapting to an unfamiliar game you saw an intensely hard worker and an intellectual athlete ... so intuitive. Moving without the ball ... seeing openings and angles. All the qualities you cannot coach ... he already had. And immediate rapport with his teammates.”

McGowan has long demonstrated that same relentless DNA determination he flashed during those early stages on Hotze Field.

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 37

Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

CONTINUED

Kingsley was born with Amniotic Band Constriction ... a condition that left him with only six fully-grown fingers rather than ten. But the perceived handicap never doused his ambition and Mills instincts proved extremely accurate.

McGowan seamlessly fit into a deep talent pool that included Brett’s son Conor ’09, a two-time Texas high school player of the year, and a host of others who would advance to Texas se- to the wing to take further advantage of lect, collegiate programs and elite team his game-breaking ability ... after leading the USA under-20 All-Americans USA squads. to the Junior World Rugby title ... McThe Eagles rocked back-to-back state Gowan suffered a significant seasonchampionships in 2008-09 in what ending knee injury in October 2012 that would eventually roll into a string of required surgery to repair a medial colfive titles in six years. And McGowan lateral ligament and meniscus ... and believes his personal foundation for then an anterior cruciate ligament profuture accomplishment was laid. cedure that following December.

“So much of what’s in place for me now McGowan says he had “to re-learn how was formed with coach Mills and coach to walk, jog, cut and run. But in an odd (Jim) Wolfinger and the rest of the staff,” way it may have been one of the best McGowan says. “Conor set the standard things to happen to me. I didn’t think I here ... the guy I watched and wanted to was invincible but there was a mentalfollow and aspire to be. And whatever ity that I had maybe all this figured out. the future holds moving forward inside Then during that stretch when I was the game and out ... I will trace the roots out and rehabbing I would read about right back here to St. Thomas.” guys accomplishing this or that ... guys McGowan opted for St. Mary’s College I honestly believed I was better than. in California despite his initial appre- And the competitive drive really kicked hensions about committing to a college in. I became much more of a student program with no tradition or national of the game ... studying the tactical aspects ... body positioning ... decision profile. making. It has all made me a more re“California was the hot bed. ‘West coast fined player ... a hungrier player.” the best coast’ was what you heard,” McGowan says. “I just wanted to chal- McGowan returned in “467 days” to lenge and prove myself. Each day was cash both individual and championship recognition. Once his college caall about ‘winning the day.’” reer was exhausted he leveraged his The winning for McGowan was only St. Mary’s connections for a prime opbeginning and mounting ... soon three portunity with Dublin’s Trinity College All-American seasons as one of the key Club in Ireland who were seeking to cogs in consecutive Division 1A na- acquire their single designated international championships in 2014-15 ... the tional player. first titles in the 100 year-plus history of the Gaels’ program and the first-ever of “The focus was simply to go there and improve,” McGowans says. “And what any kind for the university. comes with that, comes with that.”

But before playing almost every backline position for St. Mary’s and then shifting What came in early 2016 was a call-

38 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

up for duty with the USA Falcons 7s squad (coached by Eagle icon Andrew Locke ‘03) for international competition in South America, then McGowan making his breakthrough senior USA national team start ... the first Eagle to earn such distinction ... at BBVA Compass Stadium against Argentina.

All of which places McGowan firmly in the mix to represent the United States when rugby returns this summer as a medal sport in the Summer Olympics for the first time since the 1924 Games in Paris. Rugby 7s (seven-players-a-side rather than the usual 15) was reinstated for at least 2016 and 2020.

But regardless of whether his rugby road leads to Rio or continued status with future USA national teams ... McGowan values most the relationships which the game has provided.

“It’s a brotherhood much like what you experience here at St. Thomas,” he says. “Coach Mills and his sons Conor and Keegan ... my teammates at St. Mary’s and in Dublin and back here in the states ... are my second family.

There’s so much about my experience that I cherish more than the notoriety.”

Mills pauses with particular pride in between vivid recounts of his times together with McGowan almost a decade ago.

“Kingsley is a brave soul,” he says.

“Holds a great courage and inner confidence ... to overcome some physical obstacles ... invest in a new sport ... give St. Mary’s a chance when they didn’t have a pedigree ... relocate overseas ... measure against the best players this country has to offer. And what I truly love about him is that in the midst of all that is swirling ... he remains very much the same Kingsley who sat right here in this classroom not that long ago. Still so humble. We may have set him on a path but this ethic and determination are what have and will continue to set him apart from so many of the rest.”

Eagle

FIGHT Ambitious Schedule Awaits Eagle Football.... p40 Quarterback Keating ’16 Commits to University of San Diego................................... p41 Star-Studded National Signing Day............... p42 NFL Dream Remains Alive for Eagle Assistant Coach...................................... p46 Golf Coach Tuten Stays All in the Basilian Family................................................. p50

Fitzpatrick takes 40 -7 career record into his fifth Eagle football season, p40

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 39

Eagle

FIGHT

T

he obstacle confronting St. Thomas in negotiating a desirable football schedule is proving even more challenging than facing the actual competition on the field.

The Eagles push into the 2016 season introducing three new public school clashes while maintaining three of the city’s most valued private school series ... and accepting a six week stretch where STH is staging only one home game.

Athletic director Mike Netzel recognizes two significant cause-and-effect factors impacting the ever-shrinking pool of potential opponents.

“We’ve been pretty good and that obviously gets everyone’s attention,” Netzel said. “And we’re trying to fill seven non-district slots.

That’s a huge number. As recently as 2013 it was only four and all of them were in the first month of the season. Dates in weeks five, six and seven are really limited to those smaller or odd-number districts where schools are strapped in many of the same ways as we are.”

Head coach Tim Fitzpatrick admits to aggressively working break away groups and back hallways at the most recent UIL re-alignment meeting “like speed dating” trying to clear the 2016 vacancies.

Who are you?

St. Thomas.

No. We don’t want any piece of you.

“Brave new world” is how Fitzpatrick described the upcoming slate.

“No one is certainly seeking us out, that’s for sure,” he said. “It’s a tribute how the program has evolved.”

Beginning with the season-opener with Kinkaid, the Eagles will play three of their first four games at Hotze Field inside Granger Stadium where STH is riding a 26-game winning streak.

The one road show in that string is a visit to Strake Jesuit for the 53rd meeting in a rivalry which debuted in 1964, with the Eagles aiming for a fifth consecutive win and a third straight victory at Crusader Stadium.

40 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

“BRAVE NEW

WORLD” Greets Eagle Football in 2016 ...........................

2016 St. Thomas Football Schedule August 26.................Kinkaid September 2.............at Strake Jesuit September 9.............at College Station September 16...........Beaumont West Brook September 23......... at Episcopal September 30......... at Pasadena October 7............... San Antonio

Central Catholic October 14............. OPEN WEEK October 21............. at Beaumont

Kelly Catholic October 28............. at Tomball

Concordia Lutheran November 4..............St. Pius X (Senior Night)

Eagle Fight Never Dies!

In 2017 STH will return the longstanding competition to NRG Stadium, home of the NFL Houston Texans, where the two schools drew nearly 10,000 in 2015 for a pulse-pounding 42-35 St. Thomas verdict decided in the game’s final seconds.

TCIL and 2001 TAPPS state football championships, plus the 1975 TCIL state basketball title, all won

by Central Catholic.

Netzel believes that’s the kind of series which he would favor for STH in the years to come.

“No question we’re going to have to seek creative ways to be more selfsufficient,” Netzel said. “The private schools outside the area have to be willing to play one another. It’s that simple. There’s a health in building those relationships. Some sports see that more readily than others. It’s never an issue with baseball. But at least for the next two football seasons we’re locked in and then we’ll see how the next UIL re-districting shapes and go from there.”

The four-time defending district champions launch their TAPPS season with trips to Beaumont Kelly Catholic and Tomball Concordia Lutheran, two series where the Eagles have won 13 straight meetings by an average margin of 32 points per game.

STH then closes the regular season with Senior Night November 4 against St. Pius X, owning four consecutive showdown victories in the rivalry with the district championship at stake.

Perhaps more critical than whom the Eagles are facing is who will emerge for St. Thomas. Many core contributors and dynamic playmakers are missing who served as the catalyst to a resurgent four-year 40-7 record with consecutive trips to the state semifinals ... all STH originally set a Golden Triangle since Fitzpatrick was promoted to head tag-team, hosting Port Arthur Memoricoach in 2012. al (District 22-5A) and Beaumont West Brook (District 12-6A) on consecutive “We have some unproven talent which Friday nights in September, but was lat- will be tested very early,” Fitzpatrick er forced to drop Memorial and begin said. “Everyone goes through it. This a two-year home-and-home series with is our time. But ... we have more guys College Station High (District 18-5A). bench pressing more than 200 pounds than we did at this time last year. We After back-to-backs bouts at Episcopal have more guys power cleaning more and at Pasadena and an open week in than 200 pounds ... squatting more than mid-October the Eagles welcome San 300 pounds ... than we did at this time Antonio Central Catholic. last year. Tells you what we have comThe two schools share a limited but ing up through the ranks. But this will significant history, vying for the 1970 be baptism by fire.”

Eagle

FIGHT

Patience Pays for Quarterback Keating ‘16 The February National Signing Day delivered a swirl of mixed emotions for Michael Keating ’16.

The stat-stuffing quarterback was determined to discover a preferred destination to extend his career but the most promising choice didn’t rise on the recruiting radar until December.

The mutual interest with the University of San Diego quickly accelerated and 48-hours before NSD he cleared the school’s strict admissions process. But Keating was hesitant to immediately finalize the commitment until making an official visit the weekend following the signing day blitzkrieg.

“It was all a bit unsettling ... watching my teammates celebrate their next moves ... same for so many guys I have played with and against,” Keating admitted. “I was really interested in USD but I wanted to meet personally with the players and coaches to make sure it would be a comfortable fit. The right fit.

My decision just wasn’t quite set. Fortunately it was worth the wait.”

Quickly after returning home from his two-night stay on the west coast Catholic campus Keating was convinced the Toreros offered the desired combination of rigorous academics ... accomplished athletics ... all inside a smaller student enrollment ... many of the same favorable elements which surrounded Keating during his years at St. Thomas.

“I love the game and how many high school players can say they have the opportunity to continue at the Division I level,” Keating said after completing his letter of intent. “The feedback from their players during my visit was that the coaching staff cares as much about them as people as they do winning games. The

offense features a lot of the same schemes they ran when coach (Jim) Harbaugh was there (2004-06). Great location. I couldn’t be more thankful.”

USD is a rising program in Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) which has now continued the success ignited by Harbaugh with Dale Lindsey, a veteran coach with nearly a half century devoted to the football business including various stops around the National Football League from 1990-2006.

Lindsey has delivered a 26-8 record in his three seasons ... including consecutive coPioneer Football League championships ... extending the Toreros title string to seven since 2005 ... and their home field conference win streak to 23 straight games ... while placing 46 representatives on the 2015 PFL Academic Honor Roll.

Keating struck an immediate chemistry with offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, a former USD quarterback heading into his 10th year on the staff after beginning his coaching career in 2005 as a graduate assistant under Harbaugh, a mentor who has since become one of the most successful and highest-profile forces in the game after resurrecting runs at Stanford University and the San Francisco 49ers and then returning to revitalize his alma mater, the University of Michigan.

ing the Eagles to a second consecutive 10-2 season ending with STH reaching the TAPPS 5A Division I semifinals. He took part in 43 touchdowns while passing for nearly 2,700 yards with only six interceptions and leading the team in rushing with 632 yards.

Keating earned a series of individual accolades including TAPPS 5A second team all-state. But most defining was Keating’s innate ability to save his most dramatic salvos for the season’s most demanding moments.

In Week Two the left-handed signal caller capped a six touchdown night by completing an ad-lib scoring strike to Drew Guidroz ‘16 with time running out to defeat Strake Jesuit in a wild 4235 scoring fest in front of nearly 10,000 at NRG Stadium ... the Eagles’ fourth consecutive victory in the series ... with three of those four coming in the game’s final six seconds ... the last two on gamedeciding throws from Keating.

In the regular season finale at St. Pius X Keating accounted for all seven Eagle touchdowns, including five scoring throws ... igniting a comeback from 10 points down in the first quarter to a commanding 49-19 victory ... the fourth straight year the Eagles captured a showdown with SPX to decide the district title.

For Keating, USD represents the desired reward following one of the most productive starting careers in recent St. Thomas history.

But Keating takes the most pride in leaving a lasting legacy by assuming a lead role in a senior class which restored the program’s rich but recently dormant championship tradition.

As a junior Keating immediately became one of the city’s top private school dual threats, throwing for 1,654 yards and 18 touchdowns while rushing for 724 yards and nine scores.

Since 2012 the Eagles have produced a 40-7 record with four district titles while pushing the win streak at Hotze Field inside Granger Stadium to 26 straight games.

He followed as a senior by orchestrat-

“When we came in as freshmen it was coach (Tim) Fitzpatrick’s first season,” Keating said. “The program had been struggling. But our class reestablished the winning. We didn’t get that state championship and that was one of our goals. But winning rivalry series, district titles, never losing at home ... that’s what I’ll always remember most. What the team accomplished. We all worked so hard to bring St. Thomas football back.

And now it’s on to the next stop.”

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 41

Eagle

FIGHT

EAGLES AGAIN SOAR ON

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY

S

t. Thomas head coach Tim Fitzpatrick needed no more than the time required for the latest select Eagles to apply their signatures to National Letters of Intent to reflect on the meaning of four acclaimed student-athletes officially cementing their choices to extend their football careers and open doors to challenging academic opportunities.

roles and then by their senior seasons ... they were dominant.”

Vatterott was the first Eagle to pledge in August before the opening kickoff to his senior season. He was named co-Lineman of the Year by the Touchdown Club of Houston to cap his stellar career ... then took a variety of official campus visits late in the recruiting clock before remaining loyal to attend Texas State.

The day of distinction was hardly drenched in drama.

“It would have been short-sighted for me not to consider universities like Tulane but those up-close looks just made me more sure in my decision for Texas State,” Vatterott said.

Four pillars in a resurgent program carried through on verbal commitments made weeks and months before they commanded center stage ...

TAPPS second-team all state linebacker Pete Huggins ’16 to Middlebury College ... two-time TAPPS all-state defensive back and TAPPS academic all-state David Jones ’16 to Cornell University ... two-time TAPPS all-state defensive tackle Lorenzo Neal ’16 to Purdue University ... and TAPPS all-state tackle Charlie Vatterott ’16 to Texas State.

“I see four guys I would love to have for four more years, that’s for sure. We knew when they came in here they would likely be a in spot like this one today.

Exceptional players make a lot of us look like good coaches.”

The foursome were celebrated among family and supporters in the Cemo Auditorium Hall of Honor, sharing their own individual honor while representing true value inside a resurgent program that produced a 40-7 varsity record during their careers, along with four consecutive district championships, consecutive trips to the TAPPS 5A Division I state semifinals and 26 straight wins at Hotze Field inside Granger Stadium.

“They all bought in ... all team guys,” Fitzpatrick said. “They knew where St. Thomas was (in 2012) and where we wanted the program to be. No talk, just work. And they worked their butts off. It was fun watching them develop and play various

42 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

– Tim Fitzpatrick Coach

He’ll now follow a second lead fro his father Charlie Vatterott ’82, who was part of a Bobcat national title (then Southwest Texas St.) with coach Jim Wacker, and later played the 1987 NFL season with the St. Louis Cardinals.

“Emotionally all this hasn’t hit me yet,” Vatterott said. “Emotionally it will hit me like a bus the day that I’m packing up and headed to San Marcos for summer two-a-days. Since Day One I felt an attraction to Texas State. The feel on campus, the interaction with the guys in the program. My father being an alum and a ball player there is not what pushed me in that direction.”

Jones is a three-sport standout with a deep resume of athletic and academic achievement.

The senior team captain and four-year starter was selected Ironman of the Year by the Touchdown Club of Houston. He made the call for Cornell in October and then spent time leading into NSD reaffirming that decision.

“I would quiz myself occasionally, ‘Do I see myself there for four years?’ and the answer was always a definite ‘Yes.’ What I anticipate at Cornell is a bigger St. Thomas. Same community, same commitment to succeed, same quality of people and that’s a major attraction.”

Huggins targeted choices which featured strong athletic competition in proportion to the overall academic mission. After initially intrigued with Amherst College he ultimately staked his claim with fellow “Little Ivie” Middlebury College.

“You dream, you invest and this is a culmination,” Huggins said. “Along the way there are skeptics, people look at you like you’re crazy because what you do is not the norm. And now it all becomes final. Pretty cool.”

Neal announced a verbal commitment to the University of Utah in late August ... backed away from that pledge during his robust senior season ... and then rode into the New Year with renewed confidence after selecting Purdue University ... a package which offers Neal the chance to perform in the tradition soaked Big Ten Conference while pursuing an equally rewarding academic challenge in one of nation’s highest-ranked engineering schools.

Neal originally weighed nine scholarship offers including Boise State, Oregon State and Fresno State but the rapport with head coach Darrell Hazell which took root early in the recruiting process propelled Purdue immediately to the front once Neal re-entered the mix.

“I like him, understand the hires he made, how maybe they fit the program a little bit better and actually fit me a little bit better as a player,” Neal said. “It’s a great conference. There’s definately a chance to make an impact and help restore the program to where they want it to be.”

Neal is extending his family’s football legacy, established by his namesake and fullback father who played 16 NFL seasons

with four Pro Bowl appearances. Lorenzo Neal Sr. was recognized on the NFL 2000s All-Decade team after serving as a sledgehammer lead blocker for 11 straight 1,000-yard rushers.

And during his son’s development he led a path through the minefield of heavy external expectations which can come while maturing in the direct shadows of high profile professional accomplishment.

“He was just my dad,” Lorenzo said. “He never put that pressure on me to live up to his career or to even play football at all. I put expectations on myself but not in a suffocating way. Football doesn’t surround my every thought. We talk about what it takes in the competitive fire but never that football is what I have to do in order to be successful in life.”

And throughout a celebration that accentuates what is yet to come with no guarantees was a strong sense of appreciation for the immediate past which has positioned them for a promising future.

“I’m just so thankful for all the people who have helped me along the way,” Huggins said. “I played for great coaches on a really talented football team with guys I’ll know forever.

My mother and father spent countless hours doing whatever it was I asked of them to help me get to this point. And I can never repay them for that. Makes this all so special.”

Vatterott echoed much the same sentiment.

“St.Thomas couldn’t have prepared me better for the challenges in front of me,” Vatterott said. “I wouldn’t have wanted to go anywhere else. I’m blessed and thankful to God for everything.”

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 43

Eagle

FIGHT Among the many signature moments these Eagles and

44 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

Strake Jesuit 35 Eagles 42 Keating capped a magical six touchdown night ... relishing a late-game high risk-ultimate reward opportunity ... dropping back in the pocket ... stepping up to avoid pressure ... reverse spinning 360 degrees before standing and delivering a perfect strike to Drew Guidroz ‘16 in the middle of the end zone for the game-winning score ... the final salvo in a wild thrillarama in front of nearly 10,000 at NRG Stadium.

Keating’s late night at the improv clinched the Eagles’ fourth consecutive win in the series ... with three of those four determined in the game’s closing six seconds ... the last two on scoring throws from Keating.

...................................................................................................................................................................................

Keating threw for two touchdowns and ran for a third while David Jones posted the first points of the season returning an interception for a touchdown as the Eagles racked five scoring plays of at least 40 yards in an overwhelming 2015 debut and the fourth consecutive opening week win with Fitzpatrick.

...................................................................................................................................................................................

Eagles 44 Kinkaid 7

Angleton 14 Eagles 31 William Heck ‘16 rushed for 156 yards and his first touchdown of the season while David Jones bolted 87 yards for a punt return score during a 21-0 second-half blitz that bumped the home field streak to 21 straight games and avenged the Eagles’ only regularseason loss of 2014

their teammates made happen during the 2015 season ...

STH principal Fr. Patrick Fulton, CSB: “The pontificates of late are always promoting “the new evangelization.” Simply put this is the realization that my neighbor is me.

This weekend the Kerry Blues and the Eagles proved in a very concrete experience that though separated by distance, we have brothers .. and though we may never meet again, we are always joined by this experience and that of goodness, discipline and knowledge. An almost indescribable experience of things we hold in common ... rallying a community ... southern hospitality and pride in our mutual Basilian roots.”

Eagles 49 St. Pius X 19 Keating accounted for all seven Eagle touchdowns ... including five scoring throws ... two each to game-changing receivers Landon Malouf ‘16 and Jhamon Ausbon ... as STH roared back from down 10 points in the first quarter to a commanding victory ... the fourth consecutive year the Eagles won a showdown with SPX in the regular-season finale for the district championship.

...................................................................................................................................................................................

The Basil Bowl rematch in the home-and-home football series followed the Eagles traveling to Toronto in 2014 for the first athletic event in STH’s storied history staged outside the country ... and was the latest in an ongoing developing partnership between two brother schools with nearly 300 combined years of teaching goodness, discipline and knowledge in the Basilian tradition ... promoting a spirited competition and also providing a catalyst for cultural exchange and personal discovery.

...................................................................................................................................................................................

Toronto St. Michael’s College School 10 Eagles 49

Fort Worth Nolan 0 Eagles 17 Keating threw for one touchdown and ran for another while a crushing STH defense dominated throughout as the Eagles secured their fourth consecutive 10-win season and advanced to the TAPPS 5A state semifinals for the third time since 2011 ... while extending their home field win streak to 26 consecutive games ... making the Class of 2016 undefeated in their careers at Hotze Field inside Granger Stadium.

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 45

Eagle

FIGHT

EAGLE COACH

JERROD JOHNSON

Again Sets Private School Standard in Texas

KEEPS NFL DREAM ALIVE

The gut-burn to be great that drove Jerrod Johnson to record-setting heights quarterbacking at Texas A&M continues to ignite his unrelenting fire.

The wandering journey which has included a steady series of detours and occasional dead ends has made a dramatic turn back to the National Football League.

The St. Thomas assistant coach signed a reserve/future contract in January with the Baltimore Ravens after an impressive one-day workout at the team facility in front of offensive coordinator Marc Trestman, quarterback coach Marty Mornhinweg, general manager Ozzie Newsome and director of pro personnel Vincent Newsome.

“It’s exciting and also a sigh of relief,” Johnson said. “Having been out of the NFL game for a couple of years, you never know how many more chances you have left. I was confident I would show what I could do ... threw the ball well ... all the routes ... tried to just let my talent take over. They liked what they saw. Now moving forward I can get some meaningful reps and familiar with the offense. It’s a great blessing.”

The 27-year-old Johnson had previous stays with the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks and Chicago Bears but never secured a final roster spot to appear in an NFL game.

He’ll now join Joe Flacco and former Houston Texan Ryan Mallett as the only quarterbacks under contract with the Ravens for next season. Flacco is recovering after knee surgery to repair a torn ACL and MCL in his left knee suffered during the later half of the 2015 season.

“The real work is about to get started,” Johnson said. “Making a final cut is tough stuff. I’m just thankful for the opportunity and will do everything I can to make it work.”

While Johnson remained riveted on reviving his NFL dream he provided a significant impact during his one season on the Eagles coaching staff with a unit that averaged more than 37 points per game and generated more than 5,000

yards of total offense in 12 games. STH reached the TAPPS 5A Division I semifinals for the second consecutive season while staking a fourth straight district title and extending the home win streak at Hotze Field inside Granger Stadium to 26 straight games.

“Being around the kids was refreshing because there’s nothing more pure than high school football,” Johnson said.

“Some of my best memories in the sport are still from playing at Humble with my friends and the guys I grew up with. Coach (Tim) Fitzpatrick, (athletic director) Mike (Netzel), the entire staff here were so welcoming, the kids so receptive. If any of those guys ever need anything, I’m there for them. We all went through a great season together, a year in our lives we can never get back. It meant more to me than they likely know.

Coaching is something I think I’ll pursue when my playing career is over. But it’s not over yet.”

Johnson has been steadfast in keeping his career alive since leaving Texas A&M as the program’s all-time leader for passing yards and total yards.

The professional promise rocketed during his sophomore and junior seasons as Johnson threw for 6,014 yards and 51 touchdowns, beating out current Miami Dolphins starter Ryan Tannehill for the top job in 2009.

But offseason arthroscopic surgery on Johnson’s passing shoulder short-circuited his much-anticipated senior season. He saw his accuracy and production plummet

...............................................

Coach (Tim) Fitzpatrick, (athletic director) Mike (Netzel), the entire staff here were so welcoming, the kids so receptive. If any of those guys ever need anything, I’m there for them. We all went through a great season together, a year in our lives we can never get back. It meant more to me than they likely know. Coaching is something I think I’ll pursue when my playing career is over. But it’s not over yet.”

– Jerrod Johnson ...............................................

as the Aggies labored through a disappointing 4-3 start. Johnson was eventually replaced by Tannehill and ignored through the 2011 NFL draft.

“I’ve always believed I had what it takes to be successful,” Johnson said. “But it’s frustrating when you know you didn’t show your best. From my senior year at A&M, through the combine and the first go-rounds through the NFL, I thought I was healthy, but it’s obvious now that I wasn’t. But everything happens for a reason. I’ve learned from the experience.

God has a plan.”

Johnson recognizes he’s now “in the best shape of my life.” A rigorous training regime with Ben Fairchild at Fairchild Sports Performance in Houston restored the strength and stability in Johnson’s right shoulder along with a stronger core and lower body.

Intense individual tutorials in Dallas with former A&M quarterback Kevin Murray rewired Johnson’s throwing motion and mechanics.

“The injuries set me back and now I can definitely see that I’m the guy I was before,” Johnson said. “Marty first saw me in Philadelphia (in 2011) and told me after the session in Baltimore, ‘you’re a totally different guy.’ My agent (Joby Branion, founder and CEO, Vanguard Sports Group) was honest and upfront with me throughout the process that I still had a chance ... just had to keep the belief.

I had great support from Ben and Kevin.

They both encouraged me over and over to stay committed and keep pushing.”

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 47

Eagle

FIGHT

BREAKTHROUGH SEASON Leads to State Tournament

48 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

E

agle Basketball absorbed a less than desirable ending which wasn’t near enough to detract from the program’s deepest playoff push since 2012.

St. Thomas produced a pair of pulse-pounding postseason victories to advance to the TAPPS 5A state tournament and then concluded the season with a 74-46 defeat to eventual state champion Plano Prestonwood Christian Academy.

The semifinal outcome ended the district champions season at 24-6 and marked the end of four distinguished Eagle careers.

David Jones ’16 (Cornell football) dropped a series of first half three-pointers to score 17 points in his STH finale ... joining fellow three-year starters Jeremy Peck ’16 (Drexel University) and twin Colin Jones ’16, who along with Randy Brumant ’16 (The Kent School) served as the foundation for 49 wins the last two seasons.

The Eagles opened the postseason at A&M Consolidated High School in College Station with a furious fourth-period rally for a 56-54 victory over Plano John Paul II. STH trailed throughout the game, 27-17 at halftime and by as many as 12 with less than three minutes remaining in the third period.

David Jones then scored nine of his team-high 23 points during a decisive final quarter ... including a barrage of buckets from three-point range ... including a fourth second half bomb from beyond the arc to draw the Eagles within 4241 in the final six minutes.

Jaylen Davis ’19 dropped a three-pointer as he was fouled and completed a rare four-point play for the first STH lead since midway first quarter. Colin Jones and Peck then converted 8-10 free throws during the final two minutes to cement the Eagles’ second consecutive opening playoff win.

The next afternoon Peck scored 17 points while the Jones twins combined for 27 as the Eagles used a 17-1 run to seize control and defeat San Antonian College Prep 52-43. David Jones detonated the game-deciding stretch, dropping the first six points of the third quarter, including a right corner catchand-shoot jumper from beyond the arc, igniting a 10-1 STH surge for a 37-25 advantage.

Peck then scored the eight of the final 10 STH points during the game’s last seven minutes to seal the Eagles 11th win in 12 games and secured a fourth TAPPS Final Four since 2008.

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 49

Eagle

FIGHT

STH Golf Coach

Tuten with Brady ‘16 (left) and Fisher ‘16

TUTEN

Remains in Basilian Family, Moving to UST

S

t. Thomas championship golf coach Billy Tuten has revelled an adult lifetime in the game yet is swinging through this spring unlike he had ever before ... connected to three teams at one time.

Tuten accepted the head men’s and women’s golf position at the University of St. Thomas in November while continuing to coach the STH program through the 2016 season.

“Billy certainly elevated our success and profile during the last decade and this is a time to celebrate a positive move in his career,” Eagle athletic director Mike Netzel said. “And he stays in the Basilian family. What a wonderful opportunity. Our student-athletes really responded to his positive approach. He had such an influence in and outside the program, always represented St. Thomas with the utmost class. And he’ll do the same at UST after stamping a final chapter to his story here.”

Tuten returned a talented and experienced group which is consistently ranked this season among the top teams among TAPPS Division I schools, with Henry Fisher ’16 (Univesity of Texas Rio Grande Valley) and Curtis Brady ’16

positioned as two of the highest ranked championship finals in five years and compiled a remarkable match-play record individual players in the region. of 30-6. He won consecutive U.S. Amateur Tuten’s parade of title contending teams Public Links championships in 1982-83, at STH included the 2012 TAPPS state the Western Amateur in `83 and played champions, the Eagles first hardware for the United States in the Walker Cup since a run of three crowns between 2000- win that same year. Tuten then spent 20 05, followed up by a runner-up state finish years on professional tours before bein 2014 and a third-place result in 2015. coming one of Houston’s most acclaimed “I really appreciate Mike and St. Thomas swing instructors. for being flexible so that we can all make “I was really looking for someone who this work,” UST athletic director Todd wasn’t just a manager of logistics, an orgaSmith said. “I certainly understand what nizer,” Smith said. “Billy knows the game, he’s meant to the school. Mike and I are teaches the games, from swing to strategy determined that none of our programs are to psychology. He knows talent, can moticompromised during the transition. When vate and develop players over the duration Billy and I had our very first conversation of their careers which is critical for our he let me know he believed they could win program. He’s the total package for us.” the state championship this season and was determined to see it through to the end.” Tuten succeeded Philip Tate, a former standout performer at Texas Tech who Tuten coaches with the same white-hot spent the last two years at UST before competitive intensity that fueled his play- accepting the head men’s position at ing career. He returns to the collegiate UTRGV in August. scene roughly 30 years after he was one of the country’s elite amateurs, enjoying a Tuten took over a men’s program that standout stay at the University of Houston won the 2014 Red River Athletic Conwhere he played for college golf’s most ference championship and produced at top-20 finish at the NAIA Men’s National influential coach, Dave Williams.

Championship.

Starting with the 1979 U.S. Junior Amateur, Tuten advanced to four USGA The Celts produced multiple top-five finishes in 2015, including a second place result at the UTB Invitational and a fifth place finish at the NAIA Contender Tournament.

Tuten will reunite with former Eagle standouts Juan Gutierrez ’12 and Richard Le ’12 who were key contributors to STH’s state title in 2012.

“To see Billy again team with Juan and Richard as they close out their collegiate careers is such a bonus,” Netzel said.

“And hopefully they can all deliver for UST what they delivered for us and that’s a championship in their final season.”

50 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

Tuten with 2012 TAPPS 5A state champions

Eagle

FIGHT

EAGLE SWIMMING RIDES ANOTHER BIG WAVE

J

ames Zetka ‘16 and Luke Nicholson ‘16 capped their acclaimed swimming careers with recordbreaking individual results and fueled power-packed point finishes in the relay competitions as St. Thomas captured fourth place at the TAPPS 5A Division Swimming Championships in San Antonio.

Zetka delivered the Eagles’ strongest individual swims ... racing to new school marks and second-place finishes in the 100 yard freestyle (49.71) and 100 yard backstroke (54.50) ... while Nicholson reestablished the STH standard tying for second in the 100 yard butterfly (55.30) and then touched the wall fourth in the 200 yard free (1:50.71).

The two seniors were the heavy contributors to the Eagle team total of 90.5 points ... the program’s third consecutive top-four tally in the seventh year with head coach Bob Perkins. STH placed third last year following its breakthrough runner-up result in 2014.

The back-to-back regional champions produced a third-place result in the 200 free relay (Travis Zetka ‘18, Gabe Lenz ‘19, Luke Pelletier ‘16 and Nick Zetka ‘16) and a fourth in the 200 yard medley relay behind a new Eagle record from James Zetka, Pelletier, Nicholson and Nick Zetka.

Nicholson and the brothers Zetka proved to be

season-long catalysts, igniting STH to a repeat championship at the regional meet at the University of Houston Natatorium.

Two Eagle records and three top-two relay finishes catapulted the Eagles to 168 points to easily outdistance Tomball Concordia Lutheran (143), Awty International (81) and St. Pius X (38).

‘We have built a really strong culture,” Perkins said. “We expected to always be pushing for the top and those expectations are now also coming from the outside the program. People are recognizing St. Thomas for swimming excellence. All the credit to this team for continuing the tradition.”

James Zetka established a new Eagle mark in winning the 100 yard backstroke (54.50), also took the 100 yard freestyle (49.71), and teamed with Pelletier, Lenz and brother Nick to capture the 200 yard free relay (1:34.96).

Nicholson set a new school standard after touching the 100 butterfly in 55.30 after sparking STH with an early runner-up result in the 200 yard free, and then partnered with Travis Zetka ’18, Pelletier and Nick Zetka for second-place points in the 200 yard medley relay.

The Zetkas dominated the 100 free with a 1-2-4 James-Travis-Nick blitz to the wall.

“The twins have given this program so much,” Perkins said. “These final

competitions are fitting conclusion to their careers. And the times from Travis are right there with his brothers. His potential is sky high.”

The Eagles received valuable contributions up and down the team ... including a 3-4-5 finish in the 100 breaststroke from Pelletier, Barrett Gregory ’18 and Adam Lawrence ’17 ... coupled with a 4-5 result from Joshua Todd ’16 and John Miggins ’17 in the 100 backstroke.

Youth was certainly served as Lenz and fellow freshman Shane Williams ’19 racked a 3-4 finish in the 200 yard individual medley. Williams and James Sparks ’19 then went 3-4 in the 500 yard free.

“Depth was an obvious factor,” Perkins said. ““Our older guys really set the tone throughout the season and you can see how the freshmen are not really freshmen any more. This title is really a testament to the team developing and striving for more and more.”

The TAPPS regional championship came in the wake of the Eagles’ fourth consecutive title at the 12th annual Houston Area Private & Parochial Invitational (HAPPI) City Swim Meet and a season-long series of excellence orchestrated by Perkins that included team victories in the Richmond Private Invitational, the Battle for the Crown, the St. Thomas Episcopal Relays and a second-place result in the Bellaire Cardinal Classic.

Eagle Fight Never Dies!

Coach Bob Perkins with 2016 TAPPS regional champions

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 51

Eagle

FIGHT

E

EAGLE WRESTLING

Continues Strong Success at TAPPS State Championships

ric Dehart ’16, Patrick Rocha ’16 and Will Strickland ’16 concluded their distinguished TAPPS wrestling careers with medal winning performances and powered St. Thomas to a third-place team finish at the TAPPS 5A State Championships, the eighth straight topthree result for the program and the 10th in 12 years.

A commanding series of matches earned silver medals for Rocha (145 pounds) and Ty Huggins ’17 (160), along with a careerbest runner-up performance from Rory O’Dwyer ’16 (170), plus a bronze medal from Dehart (132) generated 66.5 points of the Eagles’ 131.5 team total.

STH depth proved critically valuable as Strickland (113 pounds), Matt Baker ’16 (138), Nathan Bryant ’19 (106) and Will Sage ’17 (120) each contributed bronze medal outcomes.

“We couldn’t have placed top three without the contributions of Baker and O’Dwyer,” head coach Tim Clarkson said. “They picked the right weekend to meet their potential and be recorded in program history.”

The Eagles reached the medal round in third place but were separated from Dallas Bishop Lynch by only nine points. Bryant (106 pounts), Strickland (113) and Sage (120) then delivered wins in their thirdplace matches against DBL opponents to

52 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

easily secure the team finish, Bryant and Sage capturing major decisions and Strickland in a fall.

Dehart (second, second, third), Rocha (first, third, second) and Strickland (second, second, third) each close earning three TAPPS Medals.

“Those three guys will definitly be missed,” Clarkson said. “It will be hard to replace three guys with that kind of state performance. Last year’s captains (Campbell Clarkson ’15 and Jerod Enochs ’15) earned eight varisty letters and six medals at TAPPS, three golds between them and had 179 total career wins. Dehart and Strickland ended with seven varsity letters, six TAPPS medals and 181 victories ... with one tournament left.”

Dehart, Strickland, Rocha and Bryant all qualified to compete at the prestigious National Prep Championships on the campus of Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pa. And Clarkson already has an Eagle eye directed to the 2017 season.

“The future looks promising with rising talent across the three classes,” he aid.

“Huggins is charging. Sophomore Liam Sullivan already as 23 career wins and Bryant has 22. The program is taking the script from football ... live in that weight room ... build the strength and confidence ... take a rough physical style to the opponent. Our offseason starts in a less than a week (February 29).

Eagle Fight Never Dies!

Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

HOUSTON’S IRISH AMBASSADOR BLEEDS

RED

& WHITE Long ago I came to appreciate my education ... teach me goodness, discipline and knowledge ... the Basilian credo.

..................................

I learned to treat people the way I wanted to be treated ... goodness.

Discipline ... know your limits and boundaries.

Months before his 50th wedding anniversary ... weeks counting down to the hallowed St. Patrick’s Day ...

Houston’s Mr. Irish emeritus Tom Horan ’62 eagerly welcomes his guests from St.Thomas ... and needs only a matter of minutes to offer a mid-morning beverage.

Knowledge ... is not always pure academics but the ability to think for yourself ... to determine from right and wrong. I never felt as if I had to be the smartest guy in the room. And that was from my experience at St. Thomas ... and the University of St. Thomas. I have so much respect for the Basilians for what they taught me.

A half ounce (or more) of Irish whiskey along with two ounces of orange juice.

Horan met his wife Jeani at UST. Married at age 21.

Sons Tom III ‘85 and Gregory ‘89, followed by grandson Thomas IV ‘18, have continued the family Eagle legacy.

As Horan proclaims with absolutely no hesitation ...

It’s five o’clock somewhere!

I never demanded A’s in the classroom... just that the kids do their best. At one time Gregory was determined to underachieve his way into public school. During a pointed parent-teacher conference he was told ... F’s at Lamar and Lee High School are free ... here they cost $10,000 ... get off your butt and start working.

And not just any ordinary or even legendary fine dram is deemed fit for Horan’s self-styled Irish EyeOpener ... rather his personal Old Tom Horan Irish Whiskey ... the label bestowed by long-time friend John Rydman, the owner of Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods.

That’s better than being canonized a saint, for an Irish guy!

Horan is slowed a bit at age 70 by a series of heart attacks ... including one while marching in Houston’s 2012 St. Patrick’s Day Parade ... and losing his left leg to complications from diabetes. But his quicksilver spirit remains in tact. And his deep Irish emotions swell and his eyes tear when casually asked about the impact attending St. Thomas has had on his life.

Horan’s father hailed from Stamford, Connecticut ... his mother Mount Vernon, New York. They stopped in Houston on their way to pave a bright future in California ... and never left. Tom was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital and grew up in the shadows of the same River Oaks address he and Jeani have lived for nearly half a century.

Stories of deceased Tom Senior prompt the city’s patron to all that is Green and White and Orange to beckon Jeani with an all too familiar request ... cue and play a particular CD track from The Irish Tenors ... and for the second time Horan is spiked with sentiment as the classic Irish ballad The Old Man reverberates throughout his living room ... one chorus demanding accompaniment.

I never will forget him ... For he made me what I am ...

Though he may be gone ... Memories linger on ... And I miss him, the old man

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 53

Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

CONTINUED

Horan began making his professional mark in men’s retail ... Foley Brothers and Walter Pye. Then opened Birraporetti’s restaurant in River Oaks ... a nod to an Italian mother and Irish father. Eventually Horan found his fastball in public relations ... pounding the strike zone for a wide array of clients such as Black-eyed Pea and Del Frisco’s restaurants, Irish Airlines, Absolut Vodka and (naturally) Jameson Irish Whiskey.

The initial high-gloss rating and reviews gave founder Dale Wamstad instant credibility and launched a profitable relationship with customers and Horan that stood the test of time.

But there was no better glove-like fit than pitching in the 1980s for the city’s iconic Shamrock Hotel which was opened in 1949 by brash oil giant Glenn McCarthy ... and shut down and leveled in 1987 after the Texas Medical Center purchased the property.

A few years ago Gene called me and said come up to Dallas. He hands me a sizable check. Good number.

Said that’s for helping me become so successful. I said that’s damn nice. Next morning I’m reading the Wall Street Journal and Dale is selling the restaurant for $27 million. Called him right away and said you cheap (blank), is that the biggest check you can write!

The last St. Patrick’s Day there was an unbelievable event. Huge turnout. Mr. McCarthy was honored with a gathering in the Emerald Room ... and another 2,000 patrons in the Grand Ballroom. At 12 noon I had four security officers escort Glen to meet the crowd.

Twenty-eight piece bagpipe band bellowing. He reaches the stage. I said let’s have a round of applause for our founder. Enormous ovation. Hand him the microphone.

They turn quiet. He says four words ... screw the Medical Center ... and walks off. The room absolutely roared.

Horan is renowned for a signature sartorial splendor and a shoe collection that would rival Imelda Marcos ... all often on colorful display when ushering Sunday morning Mass at St. Anne’s Catholic Church. He’s equally well known as a fearless community leader and ferocious fundraiser for causes near and dear.

No Horan campaign hammered harder and louder than his famed Knife & Fork Club’s America’s Top 10 Steakhouses (now Tom Horan’s Top 10 Club).

In the late 1980s Horan was searching for creative strategy to separate the newly formed Del Frisco’s brand from national franchises invading the Dallas market. Horan conceived a top-10 ranking of acclaimed gastronomic sensations setting the standard for all that is magnificently aged, marbleized and two-finger-thick ... the glorious charred, sliced thick and served rare.

The recognitions were released through the calendar year and appeared prominently in airline inflight magazines where the likes of Peter Luger in Brooklyn, Chicago Chop House, Seattle’s Metropolitan Grill, Manny’s in Minneapolis were routinely all the rave ... along with Del Frisco’s Double Eagle in Dallas.

Brilliant.

54 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

STH athletic director Mike Netzel with Horan

I’ve stopped wondering what I’m going to do when I grow up. No more mountains to climb. Throughout it all ... I never looked at anything I did as if it were a job ... always something I wanted to do. I loved what I did.

Never an easy road but always the love of my life ... along with Jeani. And I was really good.

A slight pause for the last swallow. One Irish Eye-Opener down.

Time for another!

Greg Gatlin ‘98 provided award-winning Gatlin’s BBQ

Eagle

PRIDE Eagle HIGH ROLLERS again cash in at

ALUMNI CASINO NIGHT

Hoopin’ it up -

EAGLE-STYLE!

Salute to all those who rim-racked to their Reckling days of yore in the annual 3-on-3 Alumni Tournament.

The team of Nicholas Wade ’05, Anthony Sellers ’07 and Jeremy King ’12 served supreme in the Competitive Division ... while William Getschow ’95, Peter Trammell ’88, Chris Carbajal ’93 and Stephen Smith ’91 survived and advanced to rule the Balding Eagles Division.

Great thanks to Drew Donohue ’01 for bringing his game and slam dunking so much of the organization and registration.

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 55

Eagle

PRIDE

IN MEMORIAM James Alfred Adams ’52, brother of Luke T. Adams ’55, December 29, 2015 Gary Joseph Baroski ’69, brother of Albert G. ’60 and Larry C. ’68 Baroski, January 6, 2016 Joseph D. Becker ’60, February. 4, 2016

Edward J. Blackburn ’40, brother of Raymond ’33, father of Chris G. ’70 and Jerry R. ’71, February 27, 2016.

Doris Ann Casserly, mother of Raymond T. ’66, Dennis M. ’68, Patrick J. ’73, Edward W. ’75, David B. ’80 and John P. ’81 Casserly, November 28, 2015 Raymond F. Crellin, father of Raymond F. Crellin Jr. ’74, December 25, 2015 Bernard Louis Danna, father of Bernard L. ’69, Carmello J. ’72, Mark S. ’76 and Gary D. ’79, uncle to Louis V. ’67, Greg A. ’74 and Michael J. Danna ’71, January 2, 2016 Bessie J. Debo, grandmother of James Edward Debo ’09, December 28, 2015 M. Jean Ferrata, wife of John B. Ferrata ’53, November 4, 2015 56 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

Rev. Kenneth John Decker, CSB November 30, 2015 A dedicated Basilian for 58 years who served in priestly ministry for 48 years and as a faculty member at St. Thomas from 1973-81 died peacefully at Anglin House in Toronto after quietly and courageously battling cancer of the pancreas and liver for more than a year.

Former STH president and principal Fr. Ron Schwenzer, CSB remembers Fr. Decker as “always quiet and unassuming from the time I knew him when we were scholastics. Although he held significant positions in the Congregation over the years, he was still the same humble and unassuming man. I admired Ken as a priest, fellow Basilian and friend ... always quietly leading by example.”

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Fr. Decker entered the Basilian Novitiate in Rochester, New York, and was professed in 1957. Ten years later he was ordained to the priesthood in Blessed Sacrament Cathedral in Detroit.

“Fr. Decker was explaining the difference between amps and volts, and had 12 of us hold hands, forming a ring, with the two students at the top of the ring holding wires connected to a transformer while the other hand was holding a classmate’s hand in the ring.

After completing his Theological studies at St. Basil’s Seminary, Fr. Decker attended the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, where he earned his M.S. degree in Physics and Chemistry, and in 1980 he received a Master of Religious Education from the University of St. Thomas.

Fr. Decker spent a sabbatical year in Nigeria, Africa, working with Our Lady’s Missionaries. While there, he attended a trade school and spent time on one of his great loves – carpentry. He fabricated furniture for the local church whose parishioners were largely first generation Christians.

Besides being a teacher, Fr. Decker was rector of St. Basil’s College for several years and later served as a dedicated pastor at Holy Family Church in Missouri City.

Dana Grams ’75 recalls a a particular physics session his senior year.

“Fr. Decker warned us to be ready for a mild shock, with low amperes and moderate measure of volts. He then turned up the amps and explained the concept of ‘electrical current.’ He briefly turned on the transformer, and all of us in the circle were jumping and flinching from the much more powerful shock. We all screamed and probably looked totally surprised.

“In retrospect, I think he probably overdid it on accident. But the look of mischievous satisfaction on his face, with that innocent, humble smirk, is my fondest memory, as he knew that he had physically demonstrated his point to a bunch of rowdy seniors. The true measure of a dedicated educator. The double objective of teaching science and humility in the same experiment!”

Larry Thomas Finch ’88, son of Melvin J.‘49, nephew of John I. ’45, cousin to Kevin C. ’74, Allan A. Finch ’79, Michael A. Chmiel ’73 and Michael W. Stephens ’99, May 28, 2015

Mary Joan Graham, mother of James Joseph ’84 and Joseph Martin ’86, January 31, 2016 Murray James Goulas ’44, brother of Warren A. ’45 and uncle to Gregory J. Goulas ’69, January 7, 2016

August Joseph Gullo, brother of Tony Gullo ’53, January 28, 2016 Calvin S. Hembree ’53, brother of James M. Hembree ’53, December 31, 2015

Phyllis O’Connor, mother of David E. O’Connor ’81, January 22, 2016

Anne Cooper Solcher, wife of Albert K. Solcher ’53, February 26, 2016

Harry J. Oscar ’48, January 10, 2016 Ann Elizabeth Portele Kurtin, wife of Claude A. Kurtin ’38, mother of William E. ’61 and Mark Kurtin ’68, December 26, 2015

John Spence Stephens ’60, brother of Richard B. Stephens ’51, February 13, 2016

Craig T. Parrish, son of Harry A. Parrish ’59, November 28, 2015

Ronald Clifton John Robson Pawlik ’55, Kight ’55, brother January 28, 2016 of Harper M. ’50, father of Michael J. ’80, Richard I. ’83 and W. Allen Kight ’86, December 2015.

Peggy Hawkins Rehm, mother of Randy R. Rehm ’70, January 7, 2016 Antoinette Maida Letsos, sister to Salvador J. Sr. ’29, aunt to Bennie W. Sikorski ‘49, brother of Salvador J. Jr. ’59 and great aunt to Fr. Louis S. Sikorski ‘51, November Salvador J. Letsos III ’79, life-long 14, 2015 friend of Celeste McAshan, mother Roy Andrew of Hawe Jones ’60, January 31, Skorupiniski ’54, 2016 December 20, 2015 William Leo Maack ’47, February

Lloyd Joseph Waguespack, father of Lloyd J. ’69, Garry S. ’70 and Gene T. ’73, uncle to Stephen A. Waguespack ’02, December 20, 2015 Webster Robert Stone ’45, June 7, 2015 Barbara Ann Swick, mother of James L. Jr. ’84 and Michael E. Swick ’87, February 25, 2016.

Joanne Ray Walling, wife of James W. Walling ’47, November 10, 2015 Arnold James Webre ’45, brother of Lloyd P. ’31, Camille J. ’32, John F. ’35, Samuel C. ’40 and Malcolm T. Webre ’46, November 2015.

Ray Alfred Willet ’53, February 4, 2016

14, 2016

history. Noted for his sharp tongue and brash style, The “King of Torts” won five verdicts for more than $100 million, and more than two hundred for at least $1 million.

Joseph D. Jamail Jr. ’42

December 23, 2015 Renowned as one of the state’s most aggressive litigators, generous philanthropists and considered among the greatest trial lawyers in American

Jamail built his Texas practice on personal injury cases but is best known for representing Pennzoil against Texaco in the oil giants’ highprofile legal battle in 1987 when he won $10.5 billion for Pennzoil and personally pocketed $345 million in contingency fees.

With his wife Lee, Jamail established the Lee and Joseph D. Jamail

Foundation in 1986, through which he gave millions to education, medical research and the performing arts.

The Baylor College of Medicine announced in 2013 that its outpatient clinic on the McNair Campus would be named the Lee and Joe Jamail Specialty Care Center to honor them.

Jamail was a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin where he poured millions into the university network, was an outspoken proponent of Longhorn athletics and is the namesake of the field at Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 57

Eagle

PRIDE

IN MEMORIAM

ALUMNI NEWS

Continued ...

1955

Bobbye Jones Woodmansee, mother of Roy Woodmansee ’76, February 14, 2016.

Ed Finn was elected President of the Optimist International Foundation. St. Louis, Missouri, an organization dedicated to “Bringing Out The Best in Kids” through their support of the service organization, Optimist International.

1983

Rev. Edward Arthur Roberts, CSB ’45 December 2, 2015 Wished to be remembered first and foremost as a teacher and pastor, then builder and innovator, and peace and justice activist. Born in Houston in 1927, a St. Thomas graduate who later served as a faculty member, a graduate of Assumption College in Windsor, Ontario who studied theology at St. Michael’s College in the University of Toronto and was ordained a Basilian priest in 1955.

Fr. Roberts served in Toronto and Windsor, Ontario; Detroit, Michigan; and for many years in Las Cruces and Truth or Consequence New México.

Those who had the good fortune to know him will remember Fr. Roberts as a dedicated priest and confrere, a loving and lovable brother, brother-in-law, uncle and great-uncle.

= Please let the Alumni Office know if an alumnus has passed away.

Call 713-864-6348 x150, fax 713-864-6402, or email alumni@sths.org.

Those listed in this edition were received by February 29, 2016

58 - Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016

Rawle Andrews received the Decatur Trotter National Humanitarian Award from The National Association for Black Veterans (NABVETS) and was recognized by Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, Congresswoman Donna Edwards (Maryland 4th District) and Congressman Chris Van Hollen (Maryland 8th) for his hands-on leadership and direction of public education and outreach programs and services for older veterans, women veterans and family caregivers of veterans within Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic USA.

The NABVETS reserves this notable distinction for those individuals who contribute extraordinary community or humanitarian service that has made a difference in the lives of veterans and their families while performing above and beyond the call of duty with a positive impact on the community.

1987 Allen Hebert has launched Your Holy Family Ministries, a non-profit organization to help families achieve holiness, and also recently released a book which outlines a 33-day program to begin or improve traditional Catholic prayer within the family. For more information visit 33day.org.

1996

Andrew Green was promoted to partner at Dallas-based law firm McCathern, PLLC. He is an attorney in McCathern’s Houston office who practices in both civil litigation and transactional matters. Additionally, he devotes a portion of his practice to transactional work, including representing financial institutions in negotiating and documenting commercial loan agreements and providing counsel related to the formation and funding of corporate entities.

2002

Isa Garcia and wife Kim announce the birth of their third son, Gabriel Anthony ’33, July 27, 2015, who joins brothers Isaias Antonio II ’27 and Cristiano Andres ’30.

2005

Green obtained his law degree from Fordham University School of Law and received his undergraduate degree from The University of Notre Dame. Before beginning his legal career, Green worked in the nonprofit field traveling throughout Latin America, and is a fluent Spanish speaker.

He maintains a commitment to pro bono work and is involved with the Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program and serves on the board of the Amigos de las Americas Houston Chapter.

Evan Psencik married Cynthia Martinez in New York City on November 7, 2015. Evan has worked as an associate director in Youth Ministry for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston for the past three years and is also currently working as coordinator of Youth ministry and Young Adult ministry for the Diocese of Bridgeport, CT while Cynthia continues her job as Associate Director of Youth Ministry for the Archdiocese of New York. Best men were Matthew Prudhomme ’05 and Michael Porter ’05. The groom’s brothers, Adam ’00 and Eric served as groomsmen along with Donnie Stein ‘05 and Chris Ruhnke ’05.

1999

2006

Roland Millare and wife Veronica (Incarnate Word Academy ’99) welcomed their first child, Gabriella, January 2015. Roland has begun his 12th year working for Saint John XXIII College Preparatory and is currently working on a doctorate in Sacred Theology at the University of St. Mary of the Lake (Mundelein, IL). Additionally, he works part-time at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Sugar Land and as adjunct professor of Theology for deacon candidates at St. Mary’s Seminary.

William Sias married Kate Corcoran December 5, 2015 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee.

James Sias ’10 served as the best man with groomsmen Jack Adams, Joey Bernica, Tom Corcoran, Casey Gain, John Gerrish, Steven Geuther, Drew Harris, PJ Keb and David Tschoepe.

Eagles’ Nest Spring 2016 - 59

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