2022 » IN THIS ISSUE: Connections A MAGAZINE FOR THE ST. MARY’S RYKEN COMMUNITY a catholic school in the xaverian brothers tradition 14 17 20 Alex Wyvill ’12 and Ryan Braam ’14 Ordained as Priests in the Archdiocese of Washington Jason Brown ’16 and Taylor Latham ’17 in the TV Spotlight! Treveon Graham ’11 and Romar Dennis ’13 Making Plays in the Professional Arena St. Mary’s Ryken Flight FlightOpensAcademyWith24Simulators p.10
St. Mary’s Ryken is a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory school community operated under the Xaverian Brothers’ sponsorship dedicated to academic excellence and individualized student growth.
FROM THE
By the time you are reading this, we will have graduated our 41st class at St. Mary’s Ryken while honoring our alumni with special anniversaries from our Diamond (1947) and Gold years (1970-72). I am extremely proud of our SMR Class of 2022. They have truly written their own script and forged a new path in how education succeeds during a global crisis. It takes perseverance and resiliency, traits they exhibited with astonishing grace. Although this is one of the smaller classes to graduate in recent history, their accomplishments are mighty rivaling much larger classes. College acceptances were received from 234 different colleges and universities, and our graduates will be attending schools in 21 different states. Three students will be attending service academies (Navy, Air Force), and 31 students will continue to use their talents as collegiate athletes. More than 20 members of the class will be attending a Catholic college and one will be entering the seminary. About 70 percent of the class received at least one scholarship offer, for a grand total of $21.4 million. Over 40 percent of students received scholarships totaling over $100,000.
managing editor
In Christ’s peace, Dr. Rick Wood President and CEO
While these scholarship awards are tangible, there are many intangibles that our graduates have received from their SMR education. Completing over 18,000 hours of actionable service to their community, they learned that charity is helping those who are in true need. Through their classroom and experiential learning, they also understood that justice is finding ways to curtail the root causes of the charitable need.
This Class of 2022 has a special place in my heart because my youngest of three daughters is a member. All three girls forged their own path during their years at SMR but graduated with the same deep love for their Catholic education. We have truly been blessed as a family for all the faculty, staff and students who have impacted our daughters in such a positive way! I hope you enjoy the articles in this magazine that highlight our amazing alumni! From a debut on “Family Feud,” to being a TOPGUN instructor or being ordained a priest, our alumni are making “Connections” and a difference in the world around them. Make special note of the dates for upcoming events. I would love to see you and hear some of your memories of your time at St. Mary’s Ryken!
DearPRESIDENTAlumni and Friends,
mission statement
Betsy Haley P ’24, ’26, Director of Communications and Marketing editor
CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE 2022smrhs.org Please send alumni news, updated contact information and corrections to advancement@smrhs.org or call 301-373-4162. St. Mary’s Ryken High School 22600 Camp Calvert Road • Leonardtown, MD 20650 photography Betsy Haley P ’24, ’26 Kyle Weaver Photography Legacy Studios Chris Palombi contributors and proofreaders Dana Hinton (Sisters of Charity of Nazareth) Josh Kinney (Xaverian Brothers) MeMe Stauffer P ’13, ’16 Laurie Vergott Cover photo, top: Rising sophomore Ryan Hupp tests one of 24 flight simulators in the new St. Mary’s Ryken Flight Academy. design Ideal Design Co.
Jerrilyn Borneman, Director of Development
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | INSIMPLICITYTHISISSUE 02ContentsHighlightsofthe 2021–22 School Year 04 Congratulations to the Class of 2022! 05 Feature Stories 05 James O’Hara Spearheads Toy Drive and Project Rosaries for Hope 06 A Very Humble Volunteer 06 Interact Club Donates to Feed St. 07 TheodoreMary’s James Ryken Award Presented to Terry Wood P ’24, ’26 08 Kelly Draksler and Brian Loewe P ’17 Named Teachers of the Year 10 Flight Academy Opens With 24 Flight Simulators 11 Welcome to the Class of 2026! 12 Knight-Owned Businesses 14 Alumni Spotlights 14 Treveon Graham ’11 14 Romar Dennis ’13 16 Sister Maria Corredemptrix ’14 19 Greg Liverpool ’19 20 Ryan Braam ’14 and Alex Wyvill ’12 21 Joseph Cardello ’86 22 Theresa Ford ’88 23 Steve Hall ’88, P ’15 25 Caitlyn Kogel Morrell ’07 26 Nicole Smith ’07 27 John Taylor “J.T.” Gregg ’10 28 Kathleen MacapagalBrennan’99 29 SMR Community Spotlights 29 Barbara Ives P ’04, ’05, ’06 30 Sarah 32 SistersKaneofCharity of Nazareth Celebrate 200 Years in Nazareth 33 Live and Serve at Camp Maria 34 XBSS Retreat Brings Together Students Across 13 Schools 36 Alumni News 36 Community Events 39 Class Notes 44 In Loving Memory 45 In Memoriam: Brother Richard Angarola and Jason Brown ’16 and his mom, Melissa, on “First Time Fixer” p.17 Lyla Bailey with her parents, Blaize ’07 and John ’06 John Taylor “J.T.” Gregg ’10 Teaches the Best of the Best p.27 SMR Events Bring the Community Back Together p.36 St. Mary’s Ryken High School 01
Aidan Blackwell with his mother, LaToya Hudson and Ryleigh Carroll with their parents, Steve ’92 and Dawn ’92
toCongratulationsthree2021–22championshipteams!
SMR girls ice hockey won the MAGHL Blue Championship two years in a row!
Congratulations to Violet D’Lima ’24 (pictured here with her confirmation sponsor Anthony Wojt and Father Larry Swink) and Emma Kelley ’25.
SMR football claimed the WCAC Metro ChampionshipDivisionfor the third straight year!
Welcome to 180 Students in the SMR Class of 2026!
Highlights of the 2021–22 School Year
02 Connections 2022
SMR wrestling won the ChampionshipWCACbacktoback!
This school year, the Caritas Resource Center, with assistance from SMR students, faculty, staff and community members, assisted over 104 local families who were moving from homelessness to housing. Faculty, staff and students are pictured below after a service day packaging “move-in” kits for communityTwomembers.students were baptized in the Catholic Church during the 2022 Easter season!
A big Knight shout-out to Bob Seidel who was named WashingtonPostCoachoftheYear for wrestling!
The school community came together to sell raffle tickets and raised $66,100 for the SMR Annual Fund. Everyone earned two extra days off Christmasduringbreak! ravedAudiencesabout “Almost Maine,” the school’s first fully student-directed and -produced play. Congratulations to boys soccer coach JJ Raley ’08, co-ed/boys ice hockey coach Brad Messick and girls ice hockey coach Chris Palombi for receiving WCAC Coach of the Year awards in their respective sports!
Christmas tree decorating, winter bonfire and end-of-year senior activities made for a memorable year for the Class of 2022! Kelly Draksler and Brian Loewe P’ 17 were named Archdiocese of Washington Teachers of the Year! See page 08. Terry Wood P ’24, ’26 was presented with the prestigious Theodore James Ryken Award. See page 07. The mock trial team won the 7th Championship!CircuitJudicial This is their first championship win since 2011. 59 children from 26 families received gifts and cheer to enrich their Christmas season from the SMR Christmas Child program. St. Mary’s Ryken High School 03
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FEATURE STORIES
James’ motivation to help others continued after Christmas, and he was able to leverage the resources in the MIL STEM and Innovation Wing on the SMR campus to help him with a new project. He partnered with Jon Smith, a science and math teacher, to print rosary rings using the 3-D printers. Project Rosaries for Hope has produced 73 rosary rings so far, and he’s still in production!
Rising junior James O’Hara saw an opportunity to help local families who may be struggling to provide Christmas gifts for their children.
“I had previously worked with Beth Allen (SMR campus minister) in the SMR Caritas Resource Center to help prepare ‘Boxes of Hope’ for those less fortunate moving into housing,” said James. “I realized that there was another opportunity to help these families during the Christmas season. I organized a toy collection of new and gently used toys so that the children of these families could have presents for Christmas. As an alumnus of Father Andrew White, I reached out to the school to ask if they were interested in participating, in which they enthusiastically agreed.”
James O’Hara Spearheads Toy Drive and Project Rosaries for Hope
Along with families from his alma mater, Father Andrew White School in Leonardtown, and his classmates from St. Mary’s Ryken, James began collecting new and gently used toys for families in December.
“The rosary ring project came to me when I was thinking about how Mrs. Allen wanted to distribute rosaries to detention centers but was unable to because it was considered unsafe,” said James. “I used the 3-D printers in the SMR STEM lab to print small, plastic, pocket-sized rosary rings as an alternative.”
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
116 Siblings Call St. Mary’s Ryken Their Second Home! Thank you to all of our families and supporters for lifting up Catholic education in Southern Maryland.
Over the course of the toy drive, James collected four large boxes of toys to give to the families in Southern Maryland.
SMR Principal Catherine Bowes noted: “James is a wonderful example of the power of each of us to impact the lives of others. Thank you, James, for showing us the way!”
The toys were distributed through Building Bridges, a nonprofit organization in Lexington Park that assists families in need.
St. Mary’s Ryken High School 05
“James is an authentic leader in our school community as he exemplifies the five Xaverian values each and every day,” said Mr. Smith. “We are so excited to usher James toward a future brimming with service and success.”
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In his new role as clinician, he creates and leads training programs for kayaking coaches. He’s already certified at least six people for St. Mary’s County, according to Special Olympics Maryland.
“I enjoy helping those with physical and intellectual struggles, and being part of these individuals’ lives. Although they have these disabilities, it seems that they have a happiness that most people don’t have, and there is a lot to learn from it.”
In May, Austin and the SMR Special Olympics Volunteer Club hosted a basketball fundraiser in the Donnie Williams Center. All proceeds will support the Southern Maryland Special Olympics competition in the USA Games later this year.
FEATURE STORIES
A Very Humble Volunteer
Austin’s years of volunteering with Special Olympics Maryland may have something to do with his insights into what defines humanity. He’s been involved with the sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities since he was 7 years old.
“The person you are today is a result of every moment that you lived.”
Pictured, from left: Club officers Naima Ndeh ’23, Erika Gensley Maya Civil ’23, and club moderator Melanie Maldonado P ’23, ’24 present Linda Lymas with the donation.
Austin’s older brother, Kyle, was diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 4, and surgery left him visually impaired, unable to read and write, and at risk of seizures. Kyle started playing sports through Special Olympics, and Austin would tag along. When Austin was 7, Kyle’s kayaking coach asked him if he’d like to learn also. By age 10, Austin had become a coach-in-training; by age 13, he was an assistant coach; by 15, he was certified as a coach; and this year he became a certified clinician to train current and future coaches.
Interact Club Donates to Feed St. Mary’s
In the fall, Austin plans to study engineering in college at West Virginia University. He’ll take with him his polished leadership and organizational skills, and an understanding of humanity far beyond his years. Austin during a kayak training session
Austin “has been one of the most engaging and invested coaches I have ever met,” said Zach Cintron of Special Olympics Maryland.
Those wise words come from Austin Russell, who’s only 17 and is in this year’s graduating class at St. Mary’s Ryken.
Students in the Interact Club sold Pura Vida bracelets to raise funds for the Feed St. Mary’s Food Bank. Club officers presented Linda Lymas, area governor of Rotary District 7620, with a check for $300 to help address food insecurities in the area.
“This is a feat for anyone who engages with the Special Olympics community, but even more so for Austin as a young adult leaving his mark on countless individuals and someone who will do so for years to come.”
Dean of Academics Brad Chamberlain notes, “Quietly and almost always behind the scenes, Mrs. Wood works tirelessly to correct and change and troubleshoot and edit our new software in ways that most people do not know or understand. She always looks for solutions to help students get as much as they can out of their academic time here at SMR, and I truly cannot thank her enough for her time and devotion.”
St. Mary’s Ryken High School 07
Congratulations to Terry Wood, Theodore James Ryken Award Recipient!
During a schoolwide Mass to celebrate the Feast of St. Francis Xavier in December, Terry Wood P ’24, ’26 was presented with the prestigious Theodore James Ryken Award. This is the highest award in the Xaverian Brothers school community!
“I am honored to be this year’s recipient of the Theodore James Ryken Award,” said Mrs. Wood. “So many of the past recipients during my time at SMR have been colleagues and mentors that I have admired and aspired to emulate. Their compassion, humility and zeal have been an inspiration to me and so many others throughout the community.
Fellow teacher Jason DeLucco said, “I never met someone as dedicated and passionate for the SMR community as Terry. She willingly sacrifices countless hours of her personal time to improve so many programs for her students and co-workers.”
Mrs. Wood’s husband Ben, daughter Lizzy ’24, son Connor ’26, her parents and her in-laws were in attendance to celebrate her contributions to our St. Mary’s Ryken community.
Mrs. Wood has served the St. Mary’s Ryken community for over 20 years and wears many hats, including Spanish teacher, media specialist and educational tech systems administrator. She received her bachelor’s degree in Spanish from St. Mary’s College of Maryland and a master’s degree in educational technology leadership from George Washington University.
Words cannot adequately express how much love and support this community has given me over the past 20 years. I am grateful for the opportunity to return that love and support every day to the wonderful students, faculty and staff, and I am truly humbled to join those who have inspired me as a recipient of the Theodore James Ryken Award.”
Mrs. Wood is well respected in the St. Mary’s Ryken community by faculty, staff and students alike.
Likewise, Principal Catherine Bowes said, “Terry has been an invaluable support to me as principal. She was my close partner in moving kids smoothly to and from virtual learning during the last school year. She has generously helped me fill skill and knowledge gaps. She is a servant-leader to our faculty. She models the Xaverian values without exception.”
The Theodore James Ryken Award was established to recognize an adult member of the school community who, by their commitment and dedication, lives the mission of the Xaverian charism of education and strives to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to participate in the school’s community of faith and to nurture members of the community, to be committed to academic excellence and to celebrate the talents of individuals, to acknowledge the importance of educating the whole person, and to fulfill the Gospel call to peace and justice.
Mrs. Draksler holds a master’s degree in secondary social studies education from Towson University.
Congratulations to Kelly Draksler and Brian Loewe for Being Named Archdiocese of Washington Teachers of the Year!
President Rick Wood, Kelly Draksler and Principal Catherine Bowes
Rising junior Maura Schmeiser ’24 noted the lasting impact of Mrs. Draksler: “She was my freshman history teacher, and she made my love of history grow through her teaching. She demonstrates what it means to teach at a Xaverian and Catholic school through her kindness and ability to excite her students about learning history.”
Megan Luther ’23 said, “She has taught me so much about persevering through the challenges of high school. She is always there for her students.”
“ We are blessed to have her as a faculty member and department chairperson at SMR, and she is most deserving of this award,” said Principal Catherine Bowes.
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Veteran Teacher of the Year is Kelly Draksler. Kelly Draksler is the chairperson of the SMR history department. As a dedicated history teacher, Mrs. Draksler utilizes her passion to instill a love of learning in her students. Her creativity in teaching methods helps to encourage an appreciation for history and deepens students’ understanding of rigorous subject matter. Mrs. Draksler is a consummate professional educator, a meticulous planner, a smart department chair and an honest communicator. Dean of Academics Brad Chamberlain said, “She genuinely cares about the students in her classes, both as students of history and as young men and women who are new to SMR and all the challenges of high school. She is truly a most important person in the process of helping our new students understand how high school works and how to be successful in that structure.”
FEATURE STORIES
“Coach Loewe is positive and energetic. He is omnipresent, making sure that our Health and Wellness Center and campus venues are ready for both those in our immediate community and those in the greater Southern Maryland community,” said Principal Catherine Bowes. “He has forged relationships with groups like Special Olympics to make sure they have what they need to feel welcome on our campus. Relationships like these further enhance our SMR community. Coach Loewe greets and stewards visiting athletic teams in a way that honors them and assures they have what they need.”
“ Mr. Loewe has a special warmth and care for young people, and he volunteers his time to make sure that those he looks out for are thriving in the classroom and at play.
About Mr. Loewe’s many contributions to SMR, Coach Jon Lombardo, our athletic director, said, “I have been surrounded by coaches, educators and teams for a long time, and the common denominator amongst the great ones who make the most impact is the willingness to embrace ‘leadership as a contact sport.’ This is Brian Loewe in a nutshell.” School Counseling Chairperson Christine Jaffurs added, “Brian is an incredible problem solver and thinks of every possible scenario. I admire his work ethic and passion for his work as well as his compassion for our Ginastudents.”Jaffurs’22 shared her admiration for Mr. Loewe: “He is kind and a hard worker. He is a great motivator and always wants the best for me and all of the students.”
Novice Teacher of the Year is Brian Loewe P ’17.
President Rick Wood, Brian Loewe and Principal Catherine Bowes
Mr. Loewe holds a bachelor’s degree in sports management and recreation from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. He uses his wealth of experience in recreation and community building to manage SMR facilities rentals and intramural sports.
Mr. Loewe is a true Knight and servant-leader. His kindness and positive energy make SMR a stronger community.”
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
—Principal Catherine Bowes St. Mary’s Ryken High School 09
Brian Loewe is a physical education teacher and director of Facilities Rentals and Intramural Sports.
For more information about the Flight Academy, visit FlightAcademy.www.smrhs.org/
The Flight Academy is an interactive classroom that provides students with an opportunity to gain insight into the field of aviation. Pictured, from left: Kylan Burrell ’25, Ryan Hupp ’25 and Selam Taylor ’25 10 Connections 2022
FEATURE STORIES
Students enrolled in the Scholars Program Engineering Pathway, which focuses on aerospace engineering, will especially benefit from the simulators, which will be integrated into their curriculum. Students exploring other curriculums will have access to the space as well through extracurricular activities and clubs with a focus on sustainability, the environment and math.
A new STEM lab with 24 flight simulators opened this year in Paschal Hall. Called the SMR Flight Academy, the interactive classroom provides students with an opportunity to gain insight into the field of aviation.
St. Mary’s Ryken Flight Academy Opens With 24 Flight Simulators
In the Flight Academy, students will use simulators to feel what it is like to be a pilot and see how math and science principles are used in flight.
The Flight Academy will also be available for Summer Knights summer camps, middle school STEM activities and other programs open to the public.
“ The Flight Academy allows us to take what we learned in our Aerospace Engineering class about how a plane moves and how its instruments function, and compare it to an actual simulation of flying a plane,” said Jack DeLucco ’23. “It allows us to understand the topics better by seeing as opposed to just being told how they function.”
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY Welcome to the Class of 2026! Congratulations to the Class of 2026 Scholarship Winners! Presidential Liam Andres Luke AmeliaJarrisonSofiaLouiseDavidGeorgiaCollinAlainaEllaEmmaBeamonBraendeholmBurghardtBurksGeorgeMuddMunroeSavvasSolaTharpWeilke Principal Gracen Armsworthy Joseph DiBonaventuro Alyssa Gensley Kelby KatieKendallBrennanAnnabelleSamuelDevlinGuyKinslowMcGeeObeRollinsTharpWilliams Leadership Lyla GraceOliverSofiaLucasLouiseBrennanJaydenDevlinJustinHowardLindseyAlexandriaLunaAlexanderAlainaBaileyBurksCraneGarnerHollidayJahnKennedyKennedyKinslowRobinsonRollinsSavvasSigafooseSolaStevensWilcox Dance Trinity Berry Abigail Ching Haley Ferrante Olivia Goodman Piano Gracen Armsworthy Instrumental Mason Currey Alyssa Gensley Emma KatieAmeliaEliasCasuarinaMcDonaldPascarellaRussellWeilkeWilliams Theatre Gracen Armsworthy Trinity AmeliaEmmaAlexandriaBerryHollidayMcDonaldWeilke Visual Art Macey Bowles Luna Garner Kelby GunnarAvaSofiaLouiseCasuarinaAnnabelleGuyObePascarellaSavvasSolaWathenWillen Vocal Gracen Armsworthy Trinity Berry Emma McDonald Louise Savvas Katie Williams Blaine Whorl Alaina Burks Emma MadelineJamysonMcDonaldMilesVanCuren Community Service Angela GraceOliverLouiseAmayaAlexandriaBradleyHollidayMackallSavvasStevensWilcox Laurie Collins Courtney Perraut Zachary Pugh Oliver Stevens St. ScholarshipThérèse Matthew Lemke SMR is pleased to welcome 180 students Average GPA for incoming freshmen: 3.54 74 were accepted into the Scholars Program Marshall Flick with her siblings, Robert and Greenleigh, and parents, Stephanie ’97 and Jeffrey Ethan Nepini with his parents, Kimberly ’87 and Kevin Middle schools with the highest number of admitted students: 19 • St. Johns Catholic School 18 • Father Andrew White, S.J. School 13 • St. Mary’s School, Bryantown From over 46 middle schools OPEN HOUSE • OCTOBER 23 • 1 P.M. Join us to discover the difference a St. Mary’s Ryken education will make for your child! Visit www.smrhs.org/OpenHouse to learn more. WELCOME HOME St. Mary’s Ryken High School 11
Support Knight-Owned Businesses Consider these companies run by St. Mary’s Ryken alumni and parents of current students for all your business needs. FEATURE STORIES Guy Financial Services12 Connections 2022
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY Shannon K. AttorneyMcClendon William C. Mulford II Attorney at Law Philip Watson State Farm Agent Nextaff Don’t see your business? Email advancement@smrhs.org a high resolution logo and your business will be included next time! St. Mary’s Ryken High School 13
Romar Dennis ’13 Making Plays as a Professional Lacrosse Player
“My passion for lacrosse comes from being around the sport at the highest level in Maryland,” Romar said. “I used to go to Annapolis and College Park to watch some of the great mid-2000s college match-ups, and that really ignited my love for the sport.”
14 Connections 2022
Honored With Retired Men’s Basketball Jersey at VCU
Virginia Commonwealth University retired the basketball jersey of No. 21 Treveon Graham, who graduated from St. Mary’s Ryken in 2011, in a pregame ceremony on Jan. 22 at the Siegel Center. While at St. Mary’s Ryken, he was named Washington Catholic Athletic Conference Player of the Year and The Washington Post All-Met Team in 2010 and 2011. Treveon poured in 1,882 points over his career at VCU between 2011–15, and guided the Rams to four consecutive NCAA tournaments and a pair of conference championships. He was a two-time All-Atlantic 10 Conference First Team selection. A 6-foot-5 forward, Treveon was named MVP of the 2015 Atlantic 10 Conference Tournament when he averaged 17.3 points and 9.8 rebounds over four days to lead the Rams to the title. He provided 20 points, 13 rebounds and four assists in the championship game against Dayton that season.
He also credits his former coaches with getting him to this point. Lenny Casalino, who was integral to lacrosse in Southern Maryland, introduced him to the sport and
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS
Treveon Graham ’11
Romar Dennis, a 2013 graduate of St. Mary’s Ryken, has been playing lacrosse since his teen years in high school at St. Mary’s Ryken, and in college at Loyola University Maryland. And despite landing a plum job as an analyst with a financial firm in Baltimore after college, he’s making a run in the lacrosse major leagues. For two years, he juggled his job at Morgan Stanley with a part-time stint playing for the Denver Outlaws. Then a new league, the Premier Lacrosse League, lured him to Los Angeles to play full time for the Atlas, one of eight pro teams that tour around the country from June to September.
In a VCU career chock full of memorable moments, Treveon is also known for his long, game-winning 3-pointer in a victory over 25th-ranked Virginia on Nov. 12, 2013, the first meeting between the two programs in 15 years. He averaged 13.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game for the Rams in 140 career games. He later spent four seasons in the NBA, including stints with the Charlotte Hornets, Brooklyn Nets, Minnesota Timberwolves and Atlanta Hawks. Treveon is the sixth VCU men’s player to see his jersey retired.
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“He’s the reason I was good enough to play at SMR,” Romar said. At SMR, Coach John Sothoron “really pushed me to my limit and demanded the best from me. That ‘tough love’ was something I didn’t always appreciate, but as I got to college, I realized he was preparing me for everything I would face after him.” Coach Chris Perkinson “always knew how to pick us back up and teach the small nuances of the game that made the difference between being a good and great player.”
During the season, Romar, a midfielder, trains several times a week on the field and in the weight room with the Atlas, and he helps run instructional clinics for the league’s lacrosse academy for young players. He’s also a coach at a high school. He has always been mindful that lacrosse is an exclusive sport, tied to a very wealthy demographic. “My parents let me play because it helped me go to SMR, which led me to earn a full athletic scholarship to Loyola,” he said. Now he’s trying to change that. He helped start the Black Lacrosse Alliance and is on the advisory board of Harlem Lacrosse –L.A., which both help make the game more accessible to kids from different backgrounds. He knows how big of an impact sports can play on someone’s life on and off the field. His father was drafted from Panama to play minor league baseball in the Yankees farm system. The Yankees are “a big part of my family’s immigration story,” Romar said. When his lacrosse career comes to an end, Romar wants to transition back into finance and sports business. For now, his goals include playing for Team USA and winning a league championship or two. “The passion for the sport plus my competitiveness is what keeps me playing,” Romar said. “If I am going to do something I have to be able to give it my best effort.”
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY helped him develop his competitive side.
A VirginofNunContemplativeWiththeServantstheLordandtheofMatará
SisterSPOTLIGHTSMaria
She was first introduced to the order through one of her teachers at St. Mary’s Ryken. “From the first moment that I saw one of the sisters, I knew that it was with them … that God was calling me to enter. There was a supernatural joy that radiated from her that I thought, ‘the joy that that sister has is so great that it can only come from her closeness with Christ.’ ”
St. Mary’s Ryken played a pivotal role in helping Sister Maria on her faith journey, she said. She credits SMR’s numerous activities in campus ministry and the theology department, in addition to introducing her to the SSVM, with supporting her choice. Her advice to current Knights considering a religious vocation: “Don’t be afraid of asking what it is that God wants of you, because He is the only one who knows the longings of the human heart and who can truly satisfy them.”
There are two types of nuns, Sister Maria explained: apostolic and contemplative. An apostolic sister gives her life to evangelization of the culture, bringing Christ to every aspect of society through her work and service to the Church. A contemplative nun gives her life to prayer, work and penance in search of “the one thing necessary.”
Sister Maria is a contemplative nun with the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará (SSVM) religious order.
Corredemptrix ’14
Sister Maria Corredemptrix ’14 (Emma Madden) was only 10 years old when she first felt God’s calling.
ALUMNI
16 Connections 2022
Sister Maria said, “We live our days in silence in order to show that ‘in the presence of God, there is nothing more to say.’ ” To abide by that vow of silence, this interview was conducted as a written Q&A.
Sister Maria professed her final vows in September and is now a contemplative nun with the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará (SSVM) religious order. She was assigned to live at a monastery on the Jordan River at the site of Jesus’s baptism.
Sister Maria’s desire was confirmed when she learned that SSVM sisters are missionaries. Spreading the gospel to the farthest reaches of the world has always been important to her. She and the other contemplative nuns live their daily lives under the exhortation of Christ when He tells his disciples to “pray always without ceasing.” Outside of prayer, the contemplative nuns complete housekeeping tasks and make liturgical items for the Church all in silence, except for two breaks called “moments of recreation.”
Sister Maria with John Olon and Dr. Rick Wood after she professed her vows in September
“I was before the crucifix one evening and suddenly I had a clear understanding that the One before whom I was kneeling was the One who I had to give my entire life to,” she said. “I knew that it was He who had loved me infinitely and had given His life for me and that the only way I could thank Him was to give mine in return.”
Watch Jason’s “First Time Fixer” episode on discovery+ (season 2, episode 5).
Jason graduated a semester early from Baylor University in 2019 and now resides in Calvert County, Maryland. He works for a local remodeling company. As a “jack of all trades,” he manages the books, markets the business and runs leads. He’s also a part-time financial adviser. About the Show
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
Jason says: “I would go through this experience again because now I know so much more about television, the making of a show, and the renovation process.
What I didn’t anticipate was living in the house during the renovations and how hard that would be. My biggest lesson learned was that living in a renovation amplifies the stress level. We couldn’t go home to our nice, warm bed. We lived in the mess and stress.”
Jason Brown ’16 and his mother, Melissa, were a tag team duo on “First Time Fixer,” a home improvement show produced by HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines in Waco, Texas. Melissa was motivated by the investment in her son’s future; Jason saw it as a way to honor the memories he had as a child of watching his father renovate houses.
Jason’s reflection on his time at St. Mary’s Ryken: “ SMR prepared me this experience by helping me to present ideas in a concise and with an ability building relationships.”
St. Mary’s Ryken
Jason realized that it was financially savvier to purchase a house in Waco, where he was attending college at Baylor University, than to pay over $10,000 a year in room and board. He purchased the house for $72,000 and began renovating it himself during his college days using the skills he learned from his dad growing up. After graduating, he auditioned for the show, and the mother-son duo was selected!
Mother and Son Team Up on Home Renovation Show
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“We started filming at the end of 2020 and wrapped up in June of 2021,” said Jason. “The funny thing about television is that the house was only halfway done for the final episode. TV has a great way with angles to make everything look finished and appealing.” “After being on the show and your renovation is complete, your property value is boosted,” Jason said. “Chip and Joanna Gaines are household names in Waco, and they provide input on the renovation projects, but the homeowners do all of the work themselves.”
On this Magnolia Network show, first-time house renovators take their home improvement dreams into their own hands and experience the risk and reward that come with trying something new.
Now that the project is complete, Jason plans to rent the house for passive income.
Jason Brown ’16
TaylorSPOTLIGHTSLatham
The Latham Family developed a St. Mary’s Ryken Campus Ministry scholarship in honor of Lauren Latham, a 2005 graduate of SMR. The Lauren Latham Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 2005 in memory of Lauren, who was a 2005 graduate of St. Mary’s Ryken. In 2021 the scholarship was refocused to provide assistance to individuals seeking to further their spiritual life on retreat or through service-learning experiences. Lauren was someone who embodied the Xaverian principle “falling in love with the service of God” as she was planning to dedicate her life to serving others in the field of social work. Lauren’s sisters Britney ’07 and Taylor ’17 are also SMR alumni.
“The entire process was unforgettable!” Taylor said. “We had such a wonderful time as a family and enjoyed getting to meet other families as well! It was also exciting to see all that goes into filming and producing a game show.”
“This fund helps St. Mary’s Ryken students in need of financial assistance to attend a spiritual retreat or service/mission trip,” said Erica “Rickie” Latham, Lauren’s Mom. “In recognition of the goal to “educate the whole person,” St. Mary’s Ryken’s retreats and service work are essential to the formation of young people. Lives are deeply impacted and changed through these experiences. Through this scholarship program, the Latham family hopes that through this small gesture, participants’ lives are enriched, as they are motivated to serve God by sharing their blessings.”
The Latham family wins Fast Money and the final game: BANG! Jimmy smashes Fast Money! | Family Feud Funny “Thanksgiving bird” answers: Steve Harvey loses his mind over Donald’s answer! | Family Feud Host Steve Harvey with the Latham family (from left: Dean, Taylor, Donald, Jimmy and Justin) on the set of “Family Feud”
The Latham team dominated on set! They won all five of their games, plus two “fast-money” speed rounds, earning them cash and a car totaling over $67,000.
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Fans of the Fox game show “Family Feud” may have noticed a familiar face last spring when 2017 alumna Taylor Latham and her family were contestants. In the summer of 2019, she auditioned for the show in Washington, D.C., with her cousin Justin, father Dean, uncle Donald and brother-in-law Jimmy. Thousands of other families had the same idea. “We made sure to be loud and bring a lot of energy during our audition so that we would stand out!” said Taylor, who graduated from Randolph-Macon College in 2021 and now works as a business recruiter in Arlington, Virginia. Their enthusiasm worked because, after months of waiting, they got the call in September 2020 to fly out to Atlanta for the taping.
The Latham family’s first episode aired May 4, 2021 on Fox, but you can catch snippets of their appearances on YouTube by searching the titles below:
Latham Family Competes on ‘Family Feud’
ALUMNI
Each episode is about 22 minutes long but takes about 90 minutes to tape. After each round, Taylor said, there is a quick break and the host, Steve Harvey, schmoozes with the contestants.
Through his Colts connections, Greg also had a special opportunity in the winter of 2022 to intern for National Football Scouting at the NFL Scouting Combine in Greg with Colts head coach Frank Reich during 2021 training camp.
Greg Liverpool ’19 Tackles Tasks Great and Small at High-Pressure Internship
Be efficient, be accountable, and learn from mistakes that’s Greg’s mantra.
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OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
“The Indianapolis Colts are a first-class NFL organization, and I’ve learned that how we treat people in all departments/roles is ultimately how we’ll be remembered,” said Greg. “Placing the needs of players/staff above self is a major focus within the organization, and it builds a welcoming work environment.”
“Finding more efficient ways to do things is always important. In a highly competitive workplace, it can be easy to over-complicate things. I’ve noticed that the people who are most successful in the Colts organization have a knack for efficiency and making things convenient for players and staff. Being accountable and willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake is key in this internship because there are many times when mistakes will happen due to the fast pace of the NFL workplace. These mistakes have been some of my best learning experiences because they help me realize how quickly I must reset and forget about the mistake to have success in this career.”
“ My St. Mary’s Ryken experience helped me transition into college very well. I was able to handle the workload and balance working 8+ hours daily in the Coastal Carolina football department because of my experience. I’ve been able to stay organized and maneuver online platforms easily because of the iPad program at SMR. I’ve also been able to get around campus and be timeefficient because of the class schedule and having to walk from building to building at SMR. I really appreciate my experience because it helped me develop my organizational skills and be a responsible and an accountable young adult.” St. Mary’s Ryken High School
With NFL Team Greg Liverpool ’19 knows how to keep his eye on the ball! For the past two summers, he had the opportunity to intern with the Indianapolis Colts in the operations department. During his four years as a sports management major at Coastal Carolina University in South Carolina, he also worked for the football department as a recruiting assistant. These opportunities aligned perfectly with Greg’s long-term career aspirations to work in player personnel/ scouting in the NFL. His internship opportunities during the summer and while attending college have set him on the right path.
Greg gleaned valuable life lessons from his internship. “ ‘There’s no task too big or too small.’ I’ve heard this phrase many times since I’ve arrived in Indianapolis, but one of the key parts of the experience is being available to always help. Most full-time staff members have been interns at one point, and they all preach about the work ethic required to succeed at the NFL level. Most tasks seem miniscule in terms of overall importance, but they are very important, and the attitude that you complete them with is always noticed.”
Ordained as Priests in the Archdiocese of Washington
WOW Fact! Alex chanted the words of Jesus in the Passion narrative on Good Friday, April 15, 2022. at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City with the Holy Father.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS
“With all the waiting, it certainly makes everything very surreal! As with anything where you spend a lot of time preparing to do something, there’s a certain sense in which you make the commitment interiorly long before you make the commitment publicly. And in a real sense, the waiting is difficult! In a sense, it’s simply exciting to soon be living and doing what I believe I was born to do. Soon I will be able to live out what I have been preparing for through prayer and study for many years.”
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Just like Ryan, Alex also does not know where his first placement will be exactly.
Ryan Braam ’14 and Alex Wyvill ’12
“I actually don’t know where my first assignment as a priest will be at this time,” said Ryan. “We typically don’t know until immediately following the ordination. After the Mass is over, each ordinand receives a letter from the archbishop giving the assignment; until then, we have no idea. Of course, there are some practical realities and trends that give some idea. Typically newly ordained priests first serve as an associate pastor for some time so I’ll most likely be somewhere in D.C. or the closer suburbs where parishes are larger and there are more priests typically assigned to Ryanparishes.”continued:
Indianapolis. “It was an exciting opportunity. At that event, I helped with player check-in and informal interviews. It was an ideal opportunity to connect with coaches and scouts for all 32 NFL teams.”
Ultimately, Greg enjoyed the fast-paced nature of the internship the most. “Accomplishing tasks and helping the team in any way that I can is very enjoyable. The long hours and grind of training camp is something that I love because of my passion for football and desire to learn something new every day. There were days when we were in the office for 17 hours, but I enjoyed those days the most.”
Ryan Braam Alex Wyvill
“I only know that it will be a three-month parish assignment in the Archdiocese of Washington,” said Alex. After that time, I will return to Rome to complete my license (a type of master’s degree) in theology.”
Ryan Braam ’14 and Alex Wyvill ’12 were ordained as priests in the Archdiocese of Washington on June 18, 2022, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., by Cardinal Wilton Gregory.
“Since I am already an ordained deacon, I have already made the promises of celibacy, prayer and obedience,” said Alex. “For me, preparing to make these promises was the hard part. They have some ‘bite’ to them; living them does not come automatically. Eight months later, priestly ordination feels much lighter. I am excited to finally live out what I’ve been preparing to do for the last six Alexyears.”deaconed for Mass at the tomb of St. Jean Vianney (Patron Saint of Priests) in Ars, France. Mass was celebrated with St. Jean Vianney’s chalice, which Alex is holding in the picture below.
“This experience helped shape my future career aspirations by making me go outside of my comfort zone and really push myself past my limits,” said Greg. “I know much more about myself now than I did before. Through an extensive internship presentation that I did in front of the Colts staff, I was able to connect with staff members in multiple departments that interest me such as player personnel/scouting, salary cap and analytics. These staff members have been so willing to help me learn more and reach my career goals.”
Joseph as a recruit with the FireGeorge’sPrinceCountyDepartment
Deputy Chief Cardello on duty in the local community
Joseph Cardello ’86 was struggling a bit academically in his senior year at St. Mary’s Ryken and wasn’t taking his future as seriously as he should. Brother Richard, one of his favorite Josephintervened,teachers,askingtojoinhim for a walk around campus.
Joseph Cardello ’86
“He told me he saw a lot of potential in me, and he wanted me to find something I loved and dedicate myself to it,” Joseph said. “Of course, he said it in his colorful way.” Joseph’s career path seems obvious in hindsight. His grandfather was a volunteer firefighter for many years, and his dad was a volunteer firefighter, then a career firefighter. But Joseph thought he wanted something different. He went to Charles County Community College after graduating from SMR in 1986 and had a good job at Southern Maryland Newspapers, “but I felt like something was missing,” Joseph said. “I had this growing feeling that I wanted to help people.” He decided to give firefighting a go. He was hired by the Prince George’s County Fire Department, where his father worked, in 1989, and “I immediately knew I’d found my calling.” Joseph stayed with the PG County department for 29 years, working his way up from a recruit firefighter/EMT all the way to deputy chief. Along the way, he earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland in fire science and is working on a master’s degree in organizational leadership at Johns Hopkins University. Among other accolades, he earned the Bronze Medal of Valor in 2003 when he helped pull a man from his burning home. Joseph found the man unconscious in his bedroom and carried him to a medical crew Knowingoutside.that most fire department calls are medical-related, he became certified as a paramedic in 2010. “I felt that I could be a better public servant if I became a paramedic, which has a higher scope of practice than an EMT,” he said. “It has helped give me a better perspective on what people need, and it helped me become a better supervisor because I have a good understanding of what our paramedics go through every day.” In 2018, Joseph left Prince George’s County for his current position as chief of the Stafford County, Virginia, Fire and Rescue Department, where he supervises about 200 career and 150 volunteer firefighters. Being in the top job can be tough, Joseph said. The biggest challenge, he said, is balancing the expectations of the community with a workforce that has gotten younger. “You always hear about how difficult it is to manage millennials today,” Joseph said. “I don’t think it’s difficult, it’s just different. Our younger folks have a strong desire to help people and make a difference in their lives, and they don’t want to come to work every day and go through the same boring routine. They want a variety of “Oneexperiences.”thingabout a career in fire and EMS is that you always need to have a plan,” he said. “Whether during an emergency or thinking ahead to where you want to be in five, 10, or 20 years, you have to make a plan and execute it. My SMR/Catholic education helped prepare me for the future. We had a lot of free time and had to make choices and take personal responsibility for them.”
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
St. Mary’s Ryken
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Joseph’s plan for the future includes retiring in about 10 years and finally getting to travel with his wife, Julie, and playing golf every day. He also has seven children four sons and three daughters.
Found His Calling as a Public Servant in the Virginia Fire Department
In “Colony One,” there’s a part where the main character is at a private school and the teachers are trying to help her. Again, that reflected my experience at SMR, with the teachers being good people doing their best and taking time to interact with students to impart wisdom. Of course, I had to add some necessary plot quirks, so it’s not a complete mirror! Why did you write under a pseudonym?
ALUMNI
I have many good memories from my time at SMR. Mr. Heibel’s greeting as we came into class stands out so consistently welcoming and kind. I also loved the books in the study rooms and sitting outside in good weather to do homework. Band trips were fun. The bookstore gave me a Bible, which I still own. My weathered “Growing in Christ” book is still in my library. As an adult, I can look back and see how magnificently SMR teachers and administrators helped grow and shape my mind from helping me to know myself through inspirational retreats to spiritual awareness through example and in-class instruction, to time management and being responsible for my schedule and task completion. What are you currently reading?
With Author and Alumna
Theresa Ford ’88 is a programmer living in Southern Maryland. She plays with computers, origami, wild plants, hydroponics, writing, and an assortment of other amusements. You can peek into her mind at her website www.cattail.nu.
Since discovering how hard it is for self-published authors and first-time authors, I tend toward reading their books. I’m currently reading one by a gentleman I met on social media: “Forward and Back” by Michael Pickard. What do you do for fun?
I’m always learning something new and trying different things. I’m amazed at how many nuances and skills are needed for each subject, no matter what that subject is. For example, I recently created some Photoshop textures and patterns, and now I admire and analyze patterns everywhere (tiles and bricks, shower curtains, wallpaper). I also mentor people on Discord (social media), primarily for programming, sometimes art, and sometimes writing. I teach watercolor classes at the Garvey Senior Activity Center and out of my house. I’m never bored!
The stories grow from imagining “what if,” and adventures happen based on how the characters respond to the challenges I give them. Characters and descriptions reflect my observations and experiences, particularly philosophical, human growth and caring. Did you have a favorite teacher who inspired you to write? No, I did not have one teacher, but I have been inspired, encouraged and motivated by nearly all my teachers, especially those at St. Mary’s Ryken. I was the fiction editor on SMR’s literary magazine for two years and had a couple of short stories published in it. While I may not recall specific encouragement on writing, I was helped along my journey.
Under my own name, I wrote two fantasy novels, a math iBook, a science fiction, two art books, and helped with my dad’s biography. I wrote a thriller under a pseudonym because it didn’t follow my image of keeping things young-adult friendly. It was more graphic than my other books. What is your favorite childhood book? My favorite childhood book is “Harold and the Purple Crayon” because he creates his world. Next up would be “The Giving Tree.” What is your favorite St. Mary’s Ryken memory?
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Q&A
Theresa has published eight books: “Colony One,” “Lawful Good Thief,” “Stealing Magic,” “Math for Artists,” “My Art Cards, Vol. 1,” “My Art Cards, Vol. 2,” “The Sound of the Light” (under her pen name, Harriet R. Thorne) and “Educating Gramps” with Roy Maier. All of her work can be found on Amazon. Are you currently writing a new book? I have a complete draft undergoing revisions and several outlines with partial writing. In addition, I am turning “Colony One” into an audiobook, working with a narrator and voice actors. I am doing several of the characters, and I will be assembling the audio. What is your creative process? Where do you get your ideas?
TheresaSPOTLIGHTSFord ’88
Steve’s dad was an Army man, and his parents divorced when he was 6 years old. He said, “Divorce is tricky and a life-altering experience that can be extremely painful and confusing for all involved.” But in the forced transitions that often result, surprising things can happen. In Steve’s case, he grew to know his parents uniquely as driven and passionate individuals, not as a parental mom/dad unit. Steve lived with his mom and spent more time with the maternal side of his family. “One of my closest friends was my grandfather, Wesley. He embodied what it meant to be a good citizen, friend, husband and father.”
Steve earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology, with an emphasis on law enforcement, from Western State College in Colorado, and a master’s degree in management and leadership from Webster University in Missouri. Before moving into law enforcement, he served as a social worker with the St. Mary’s County Department of Social Services. But it was one of his role models, his Uncle Gerry, a police officer, who provided the example Steve was searching for in contemplating his career field. “My Uncle Gerry was a dedicated public servant and provider for my cousins; he is the sole reason I was initially attracted to law Steveenforcement.”believesthere are no accidents in life, including those who enter it. His relationships and experiences led him to fulfill his calling.
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Police Capt. Steve Hall ’88
Steve recalled that the only distraction back then was an old TV that had four channels or a radio humming ’70s tunes in the background. “We spent our time outdoors playing, had chores, and spent time with our elder relatives building or fixing things. Growing up and many of life’s firsts had a bit more mystery. We had to find our way, and it took time. We all made mistakes in doing so, but they weren’t captured forever in a text, email, or video to be used decades later or relived over and over.”
Steve remembers SMR as a much different school in the 1980s. Then, Xaverian brothers and a nun, Sister Sally, taught alongside lay teachers. But Steve loved the flexible schedule with free time. “We had many fantastic teachers: Mr. Heibel, Mrs. Borland, Brother Anthony, Mrs. Kane, and Mr. Durbin, to name a few.”
Steve grew up when the speed of life was more of a snail’s pace compared to what kids are facing now. “We spent our time with family and friends. It was more intimate being with the family and friends who were part of shaping the person you would become, and they dared you to dream. We could not text each other; we spent time together, talking, and visiting family and friends all of the time.”
After a quarter of a century of service as a police officer and his rise to captain, Steve Hall ’88 wants to be the next sheriff of St. Mary’s County. He’s looking to replace the current sheriff, who is not seeking re-election.
But the most prominent differences include the creation of the MIL Corp. Family Field and the Donnie Williams Center. “Football, lacrosse, and theater/fine arts did not exist,” he said. It was such a different experience for Steve’s boys, who also attended SMR. Still, he said that some of his favorite moments back on the St. Mary’s Ryken campus as a parent will always be cheering for his kids in the stands while watching them play SMR football, wrestling and lacrosse.
“I now realize how fortunate I was to have come of age with so many incredible people,” he said. “The friendships and the family that shaped my life as a teenager and through college grounded me and made me grateful for the opportunities I had and hopeful for the future.”
St. Mary’s Ryken High School
“I’ve learned that being a police officer means you have to show up every day worthy of the immense responsibility bestowed on you. Be early, be ready, never give in, and repeat the exercise. You have to be true to the oath you swear to serve and protect. After all, your word, your good name, is all you have and all that matters. Never do anything to jeopardize it!”
A Life Built on Service
As deputy sheriff, Steve interacted with people in the worst moments of their lives or when they were angry, confused and vulnerable, which he views as a great privilege. “I always try to give people my absolute attention and maximum effort to offer sound advice, provide calm, help them problem solve, or simply listen.” Over the years, Steve has built trust within our community and with those he serves each day. When a stressful situation occurs, he says, “I pray for calm and grace in those situations and rely on my experience and Stevetraining.”iscurrently the commander of the Special Operations Division of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. He has extensive experience in law enforcement, serving in various positions over the past quarter of a century. Steve is most grateful for the men and women he serves with each day. “Our officers strive each day to provide equitable, caring service, treat others respectfully and professionally, and serve alongside fellow police officers with confidence to protect the people of this county,” he said.
As a result, Steve is confident the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and all of the people serving today are ready to adapt to the changing landscape of policing and meet the challenges facing us in the 21st century.
In addition, Steve’s older brother, Jeff, graduated in 1984.
Unfortunately, Steve’s best friend, Kevin Glynn, a member of the Class of 1985, passed away far too early. Kevin passed away from cancer “It was quick but brutal.”
Steve credits his education at SMR with providing him a sound foundation for furthering his education and faith life.
“It’s a great experience to visit different places with diverse cultures. I’ve been so fortunate to travel all over this country and around the world. Travel has confirmed that my way isn’t the only way or even the best way. There’s a big, beautiful world out there to see, and human beings are the same wherever you go.”
Steve with his co-worker and best buddy, Rob Russell
Voting in the St. Mary’s County primary election ends July 19. If Steve wins the Republican nomination for sheriff, he’ll advance to the general election Nov. 8.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS
“The friendships I forged while a student profoundly affected the person I am today.”
Steve is a history buff and loves to travel, with Europe as his favorite destination.
Kevin’s devoted mother, Betsy, gave Steve her blessing to place Kevin’s ashes in the Irish Sea. “We had always planned to travel to Ireland together. In the end, we did.”
Back in September, Steve attended the Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), a Police Executive Research Forum program that provides senior police executives with intensive training in the latest management concepts and practices used in business and government. The program also features discussions of the most challenging issues facing law enforcement executives today. The world-renowned SMIP cadre of instructors represented police leadership across the country.
When asked about being a police officer in St. Mary’s County, where he often encounters someone he knows, he has turned certain situations into an advantage or learning moment. “I have been in some interesting cases over the years, and in each, I try to find an opportunity to try and have a positive impact. For example, if it’s a speeding ticket for a young adult, I’ve found calling the parents is a great way to change driver behavior. But, conversely, I’ve called adults who have elderly parents who should have their driving privileges checked.”
On a personal note, Steve considers himself the luckiest person in the world to have been born in this country, to his family, and most of all, to have met and married his wife, Faith. He has two sons, Trent ’15 and Clay.
“I realized that knowing what to say, how to say it, and when to say it (or shut up) is critical to success, not just in law enforcement. In addition, you have to effectively deal with others if you want to be truly successful.”
One of the greatest lessons Steve has learned over the years as a police officer is the importance of emotional intelligence.
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“Additionally, living in this very rural area, I realized quickly that we are lacking convenient medical care. I wanted to change that.”
Warfordsburg, where she lives, has only two primary care offices and no hospital.
She went back to school to become a family nurse practitioner, had a second child, and started working in a primary care office. “I loved my patients and my co-workers very much, and I learned so much from the nurse practitioner who owned the practice,” she said. But, again, it just wasn’t working for her. She was driving 45 minutes each way across state lines to get to work in Hagerstown.
Caitlyn with her husband Nathan, daughter Lucy and son Wyatt
With her private practice, Caitlyn brings the medical care to the patients, either virtually or through in-home visits. She is also working on a brick-and-mortar location in Warfordsburg and sees some patients in Hagerstown.
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St. Mary’s
“I had to make a decision as to what I was going to do moving forward continue to drive two hours a day, wait for an opportunity in my local area, or create my own path and open my own medical practice.”
“I searched for the things that I thought the community needed,” she said, “and I capitalized on that.” She sees her practice as a “jack of all trades.” She offers services such as same-day injury and sick visits, a medication weight-loss program, physicals and drug screenings, travel testing and a unique vitamin infusion therapy.
“I enjoy being able to reassure my community that I am there if they need me. I am happy to keep people out of the urgent cares or emergency rooms when it’s not necessary.”
“When I caught wind of pediatricians not seeing kids with a fever, I decided to be a middleman for these patients,” she said.
Caitlyn was upset that the local primary care offices were turning away patients who had Covid symptoms and weren’t offering testing. “It made patients and parents of patients have to take their kids or themselves to urgent cares or wait five hours in a line to get testing done before being seen by their provider,” she said. “I thought this was crazy.”
At the same time, Covid was ramping up.
“I am motivated by purpose,” she said, “and I felt that I wasn’t getting gratification at the surgery center like I had been in the ER days.”
Nurse’s Private Practice Fills a Need in Her Community, and for Her Family Caitlyn Kogel Morrell’s private practice was born out of necessity. Not just for her clients, but for her. When Caitlyn and her husband moved to rural Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania, in 2014, she tried out various nursing jobs at the nearest hospital, in Hagerstown, Maryland. She loved the ER position, but it wasn’t conducive to family life. When she had her first child, she took a “more predictable” position with regular hours and no weekends or holidays. But something was lacking.
Caitlyn Kogel Morrell ’07
With her own business, there have been late nights and weekends dealing with paperwork and advertising, but she’s able to make her own schedule so she can spend afternoons and evenings with husband Nathan, daughter Lucy and son Wyatt. And that’s what it’s all about.
“Working on Capitol Hill, whether directly with members of Congress or with one of the thousands of dedicated congressional staffers, can be a bit of a double-edged sword,” Nicole said. “On the one hand, I have had the honor to shake hands and learn from true legislative geniuses, inspired by tireless advocates, and be shaped by those few independent voices who chose principle over party. But then, I’ve also seen stunning cowardice, corruption of power, and a lack of compassion. On Capitol Hill, you see the best and the worst; I have decided that seeing the best is worth sticking around.”
Nicole has worked closely with many different legislators to advocate for her clients. Reps. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) and Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) are “great examples of ‘the best of us’ on Capitol Hill,” she said, “fighting tirelessly for issues important to their constituents regardless of party politics.” She’s also developed great relationships with Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.). Pre-Covid, she used to run into Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) at fundraisers and chat about St. Mary’s County and how the oyster season was shaping up.
To that end, she is active with the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics, serving as its director. The group promotes ethical lobbying and its integral role to a represen tative government. “Building NILE into a leading voice for the lobbying profession is one of my proudest achievements,” she said. She is also particularly proud of advocating for two issues affecting the Great Lakes region. She was able to help triple the budget for port infrastructure there, paving the way for much-needed tech upgrades and structural improvements. And she is working on a decarbonization corridor for maritime commerce between the United States and NicoleCanada.saysshe thanks her parents regularly for sending her to St. Mary’s Ryken, where she learned how to form a proper paragraph and write a strong thesis statement. “I can never thank SMR enough for giving me the technical tools to succeed.”
Nicole first saw the power of politics after college, while interning for then-Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.). Part of Nicole’s job was to sort letters from constituents, and many were notes of thanks to Sen. Mikulski for her work on the Affordable Care Act. The bill, which had just passed, made health insurance available for people with pre-existing conditions. Seeing how advocacy could make a real difference in people’s lives made Nicole want to seek a career in politics. She found a job in Washington with a small lobbying firm. “After learning more about advocacy, I knew this was what I wanted to do. I love my job!”
NicoleSPOTLIGHTSSmith ’07 Lobbyist Plays Vital Role for Average Americans
The one thing she didn’t learn at SMR? Cooking. She says her favorite recipe is “ordering Outback.”
Nicole with Rep. Jackie Walorski of Indiana
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“I can be the voice for thousands of people on Capitol Hill,” she said. “I take the trust my clients put in me very seriously. On their behalf, the issues I advocate for directly affect their jobs, affecting their ability to provide for their families. I keep that in mind every time I am in a congressional meeting.”
While she works on clients’ behalf and prides herself on being bipartisan, she vows that she will stick to her principles on the Hill. “I believe good policy meets in the middle,” she said, but the art of compromise “has been missing from the current state of politics, where people tend to be running to the ends of either spectrum. … As we see, there are no real winners in that scenario; the result is inaction. So … I think I can find a compromise on most issues, even if I don’t necessarily agree with it. A part of my job is to put my personal beliefs aside and advocate for my client.”
Nicole is executive vice president at Miller/Wenhold Capitol Strategies, where she utilizes her congressional and policy experience to advocate on behalf of clients across Miller/Wenhold’s practice groups. Nicole uses her expertise to develop and implement strategy from legislative policy to political and issue campaigns.
ALUMNI
Nicole Smith ’07 knows that Capitol Hill lobbyists like her often get a bad rap. But she gently reminds us that, while there are bad actors in every profession, lobbyists play a vital role in our democracy by representing the average American.
St. Mary’s Ryken High School 27
“Preparation to become a TOPGUN instructor never ends,” J.T. said. “As technologies advance, instructors must continue to learn and adapt to the ever-changing air-to-air environment. Understanding the present and future tactics is critical to ensure effective teaching of the future teachers of the fleet.”
John Taylor “J.T.” Gregg ’10
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
Ultimately, he’ll be considered an expert on the subject and become a resource for the entire strike fighter community. But the process doesn’t stop there.
Lt. John Taylor “J.T.” Gregg ’10 has gotten to train with the best of the best Navy pilots. And now he gets to teach them.
The TOPGUN course is 12 weeks of flight training. “The days are long, standards of performance are high, and students are evaluated on their knowledge, execution and character,” he said. The pressure is immeasurable, he said, but it’s also pushed him to be his best self. “It is fulfilling. I wake up every day with a purpose. I enjoy flying, learning and teaching others. It is a privilege to get to do this job.”
Fun fact: Two years ago, J.T.’s squadron flew the Super Hornets from Virginia Beach to Hollywood, CA to do the flying scenes for the new movie “Top Gun Maverick” which released in May 2022.
TOPGUN conducts three Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor classes a year. Each class lasts 12 weeks and consists of Navy and Marine Corps strike fighter aircraft a mix of F/A-18E/F “Super Hornets” and F-35C. From left, J.T. Gregg with Rear Adm. Max McCoy of the Naval Air Warfare Development Center at the TOPGUN Class 03-21 Graduation in Fallon, Nevada.
J.T. came to TOPGUN, at Naval Air Station Fallon in Nevada, in March 2021 after earning an engineering degree at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, serving in the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf aboard the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, then doing a fleet tour at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
The “process,” as it’s called, consists of months of research and development of a specific mission set or capability of the F/A-18 Super Hornet and its weapon systems.
J.T. is certain that St. Mary’s Ryken helped him get to this point in his career. The encouragement, resources and personal values that SMR instilled in him were crucial, he said. And while he says he had too many great teachers to choose a favorite, his favorite memory of SMR was sailing on Breton Bay. At age 29, his future after TOPGUN is yet to be written. He still has a few years left in the Navy, and he’s leaving the door open for a wide range of possibilities after that. Maybe med school, maybe business school “Something totally different,” he suggested. But “learning is always a priority, whether it is through a structured institution or not.”
After graduating from the rigorous U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School, better known as TOPGUN, in August 2021, the weapons system officer was asked to stay on and train to become an instructor there.
Teaches the Best of the Best Navy Pilots
“My favorite ages to see are newborn to 5 years old,” she said. “I love the rapid growth and development in the children, the confidence that parents find as their children grow, as well as the relationships I am able to cultivate with each visit.” On a typical day in the clinic, she’ll see 10-20 patients for routine and sick visits.
Cmdr. Kathleen Brennan Macapagal ’99
NavySPOTLIGHTSCmdr.
Her resume reads like a Frommer’s travel guide; she’s leapfrogged all over the world, working in various naval medical centers in various roles San Diego, Italy (where she met her future husband), Philly, the D.C. area, Japan, and now Hampton Roads, Virginia. Along the way, she met and married her husband, Paul, who is also in the Navy, had three sons, and earned a master’s degree as a pediatric nurse practitioner. With that degree, she began to serve in leadership roles in addition to seeing patients.
She said that SMR prepared her for adult life. “It showed me how to balance my faith with the demands of the world and gave me a firm foundation to move ahead.” Her two school-aged children are already enrolled in Catholic school in Virginia Beach, where they live now. One of the biggest challenges of being a naval officer and being married to a naval officer is the frequent moves. They are reassigned every two to three years and have to find a duty station that can accommodate both of their careers. They have to start from scratch at each new home. But the upside is having friends all over the world, getting to travel, “and also getting the chance to take care of former patients in new locations,” she said. “It’s great to see how they have grown and how their families are doing!”
Katie with her brothers, Chris ’06 and Patrick ’09, and father, Philip, on the day Chris was commissioned in the Marines.
Katie’s father, Philip Brennan, is a retired Navy test pilot and “strongly encouraged” all three of his children to join the military as well. Patrick ’09 served in the Army for four years, and Chris ’06 joined the Marines.
“I am very proud of the fact that, despite taking on challenging leadership assignments over the past 10 years, I have been able to maintain my clinical skills and clinical time as a provider,” she said. “I have learned to balance the desire to lead and the desire to care for patients in order to meet the needs of the Navy and my own personal goals.”
Her latest assignment is as the department head for inpatient pediatrics at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, in Virginia, providing leadership and oversight for the patients, staff and nursing care in three pediatric units. She still sees patients in this role, but only once or twice a week.
ALUMNI
Kathleen Brennan Macapagal ’99 Found Her Calling in Pediatric Medicine
Katie with her husband and three sons on the USS Wisconsin in Norfolk, Virginia.
28 Connections 2022
She wanted to become a nurse, and the Navy punched her ticket. After graduating from St. Mary’s Ryken in 1999, Kathleen “Katie” Brennan Macapagal accepted a Navy ROTC scholarship to Villanova University and was commissioned into the Navy Nurse Corps in 2003 with her nursing degree in hand. She intended to stay in the Navy for the required four years, but “with the new opportunities presented at each duty station, I have continued to grow personally and professionally and have truly enjoyed each role I have had,” the commander said. “It’s crazy to think that I will have been in the military for 20 years as of June 2023!”
Next year when she completes her 20 years of service, she plans to retire from the Navy and start a career as a civilian pediatric nurse practitioner “wherever the next adventure takes us.” Her husband, a public affairs officer, will continue his service in the Navy. No doubt, they’ll continue to cheer on their sons Cooper, 7, Cameron, 5, and Chase, 1 in all their sports and explore all the new places at each new assignment.
In October 2015, Barbara was selected as the director of Strategic Partnerships for the College of Southern Maryland. In this position, she worked closely with Southern Maryland schools, business and defense industries, the military and nonprofit organizations to establish or enhance relationships to support the college.
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SMR COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHTS
Barbara served for over six years on active duty with a meteorology and oceanography specialty and then transitioned to the Naval Reserve, where she served 27 years, attaining the rank of captain. In addition, she continued her education and pursued a career in academia. Her family transferred to Naval Air Station Patuxent River in 2001, and she began teaching at St. Mary’s Ryken. She earned numerous awards during her tenure at SMR, including the National Honor Roll Outstanding American Teacher. In July 2008, Barbara was selected as dean of academics and quickly developed and implemented several innovative and highly effective academic and leadership programs. She also founded and served as the director of the Individual Augmentee Spouse Support Group, an organization designed to support the spouses and families of individual augmentees (service members serving overseas fighting the global war on terror). She was awarded the Maryland Governor’s Volunteer Service Award for her achievements with this model program and was presented with the Department of the Navy Meritorious Public Service Award for her support of over 450 spouses and their families.
Barbara Ives as a commissioned naval officer
Now, Barbara is the chief operating officer of GI Enterprises, LLC. GIE supports government and commercial sectors in training and development and business operations.
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
Former Dean of Academics Earns Ruth Bader Ginsburg Lifetime Achievement Award
The St. Mary’s County Commission for Women honored Barbara Ives with the 2022 Ruth Bader Ginsberg Lifetime Achievement Award. Barbara, like Justice Ginsburg, moved through uncharted waters with tenacity and determination to demonstrate that women have always set the standard of excellence while providing opportunities and an example for others to Afterfollow.earning a congressional appointment to the United States Naval Academy in the first class to include women in service academy history, she graduated with honors and was commissioned as a naval officer.
Barbara and her husband Glen have three sons, Glen ’04, Matthew ’05 and John ’06. St. Mary’s Ryken High School
By the time school opened that August, she was also tasked with introducing a computer mathematics course.
The teacher and administrator touched many lives during her 29-year tenure at St. Mary’s Ryken.
“I had never planned to be a teacher. I was a mathematician, and I was going to work in research. Then I found myself part-time teaching a homebound student in chemistry. That was the start of 45 years of adventure. I would not change one year of it.”
Sarah spent her remaining years as a member of the theology and computer technology departments. “Over the years, I had many opportunities to develop new talents. Some I chose, but most came about from what I was asked to do as an educator.” She retired in 2012, leaving an indelible legacy at St. Mary’s Ryken. But what does she miss the most? “The best day in the cafeteria in the ’80s and ’90s was homemade bread pudding day. A call would come from the cafeteria announcing bread pudding. One or maybe two servings were set aside for me because I never seemed to get to lunch on time.”
Since retiring, Sarah has spent most of her time volunteering at the Camp Maria Retreat Center in Leonardtown. However, now she is stepping away from that role too.
Camp Maria Director Ann Kovalcik, an SMR alumna from the Class of 1978, said, “Sarah, always mission-driven, has been a steady leader at Camp Maria for close to 50 years. In addition, she was actively involved serving the Board of Directors and volunteering on the advisory and advancement committees. She even brought Camp Maria up to speed regarding utilizing technology!”
Sarah also enjoys reading books based on World War II issues from both military and civilian viewpoints. Sarah Kane, you are forever in our hearts and a legend in the Knighthood!
SMR COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHTS
Catching Up With Sarah Kane
In 1994 Sarah took on a new fulfilling role, director of Campus Ministry. Working at SMR awakened her spiritually. The role called for her to be a leader in students’ and staff’s spiritual development in the Xaverian way, and she relished watching the students grow in various ways.
“I suggested this concept at a June faculty meeting once, and it was not a popular idea. But, I believe the spirit of the suggestion is invaluable. New ideas and new methods are refreshing for both the student and the teacher. Nowadays, technology has caused this to happen naturally.”
As she reflects on her 45 years as an educator, she says there isn’t one accomplishment that stands out; instead, she sees a collection of memories of students and colleagues who achieved successes in life. Sarah keeps busy with family and friends. But she is still connected to us in subtle ways she is currently reading “Sisters of Mokama: The Pioneering Women Who Brought Hope and Healing to India” by Jyoti Thottam. (One of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth worked in our SMR library.)
Former principal Brother hiredAngarola,RichardCFX,SarahKane in 1983 to teach algebra and physical science.
“I had to set up the curriculum from scratch and I didn’t even know how to turn on the Apple computer! But, it all worked out!” Sarah joked, “Throughout my years at SMR, I had a history of being hired for one position but fulfilling another.”
Sarah’s course direction taught her many things, too in particular, the realization that a teacher cannot “learn” a student. Instead, a teacher “teaches” a student. It is the job of the student to learn, which means more than getting high grades for one’s work. Sometimes it comes easy; sometimes, it seems almost impossible. The student needs to keep learning and keep trying. Sometimes, the student and teacher have to change the direction to meet the student’s learning style. Eventually, there will be success.
Sarah also served as an assistant principal at SMR from 1986 through 1994, where she had an opportunity to view teachers as an observer. “If I could have taken classes at SMR during those years, I would have enjoyed Tracy Foley’s Honors English class, Beth Taneyhill’s religion classes, and Nancy Alvey’s French classes,” she said. “All these teachers taught the same curriculum each year, but they didn’t teach it the same way each year. Instead, they taught to meet the needs of the students in front of them.”
Sarah believed in keeping it fresh, which is difficult unless one is willing to burn their notes and redo them each summer.
Like coaches and athletes, many teachers have traditions or superstitions for the first day of school, but for Sarah, starting a new school year was all about being prepared with her classroom and materials. She spent many Sundays throughout her years prepping for the coming week. “A good school day for me was when I could reflect on the day and see that I had made a positive difference in the people I worked with students, faculty, staff and parents.”
30 Connections 2022
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY The first correct response for each photo will win a St. Mary’s Ryken sweatshirt! Submit your answers to betsy.haley@smrhs.org. Solve the Mystery! Can you name the year, people and locations from the past? Who are these students and where was the photo taken? What year was this graduation? Who are these students and what where they celebrating? Can you identify this happy student and faculty member? St. Mary’s Ryken High School 31
SMR COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHTS 32 Connections 2022
Sisters of Charity of Nazareth Celebrate 200 Years in Nazareth
Bishop David advised the Sisters, “Build first a house for God, and God will then build one for you.” The Sisters followed this advice. The church was completed in 1824, and Bishop David blessed it on June 24.
Nazareth Academy in Kentucky
In 1812, in the newly formed diocese of Bardstown, Kentucky, Bishop Benedict Flaget was overwhelmed by the responsibility of providing religious education for the children of Catholic families who had migrated to Kentucky from Maryland after the Revolutionary War. In response to this need, Father John Baptist David called for young women willing to devote their lives to the service of the Church. From among the group of six women who responded to the call, a Marylander named Catherine Spalding was elected first superior of the congregation. In 1814, the Sisters opened a one-room school at St. Thomas Farm, near Bardstown. Their first home, a log house, is still standing, along with the church. On June 11, 1822, the Sisters moved about three miles north to Nazareth and built a new school. Within a decade, the school, known as Nazareth Academy, could accommodate 100 boarders. It’s now the site of the Motherhouse. When the Sisters and all who lived with them at St. Thomas moved to Nazareth, they used the study of the minister who had owned this farm for their chapel. The Annunciation grotto marks this site.
This summer, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth are celebrating their 200th anniversary in Nazareth, Kentucky. However, Nazareth was not their first home.
ToStargazinglearnmore, contact the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth: Amy Ulrich, administrative assistant at aulrich@scnky.org or 502-348-1583.
Located on beautiful Breton Bay, in Leonardtown, Maryland, the Camp Maria Retreat Center is a ministry sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth and is a peaceful place where groups and individuals come to simply be in the serenity of God’s creation with time to reflect, renew, and commit to their spiritual calling. Camp Maria is inclusive of all people. To learn more about our ministry visit http://campmaria.org. The recommended time for service is two to six weeks, based on your availability. Lodging and meals are provided. This opportunity is open to women 18 and older. During your time at Camp Maria you will have the opportunity to enjoy: Canoeing on Breton Bay Fishing off the pier Swimming in the pool Outdoor volleyball and basketball Walking along the bay
Camp Maria Retreat Center in Leonardtown, Maryland St. Mary’s Ryken High School 33
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
Live and Serve at Camp Maria Companion of Charity Program
Camp Maria is beginning a Companion of Charity volunteer program. Volunteering at Camp Maria is a summer experience facilitated by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth that aspires to create a space for women to engage in service while fostering spiritual growth and community. In the spirit of the Charity charism, offering service is a core value. This is done through extending hospitality and presence to the individuals and groups that come to Camp Maria. Companions of charity will assist with various aspects of managing a retreat center such as food service, housekeeping, maintenance, and program support. One may also offer administrative services and community development through marketing and outreach.
Seventy-eight students across the XBSS Network earned National Merit Finalist or Commended status in this year’s National Merit Scholarship Program. The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began more than 75 years ago. About 1.5 million high school students enter the program each year. Our XBSS students achieving Commended or Finalist standing are among the top 3% of all PSAT test-takers nationwide!
The students represented a variety of cultures, backgrounds and experiences. Each of the 13 XBSS schools were challenged as to how they should think and how best to serve their respective communities, seeking that justice while serving the marginalized and forgotten.
XBSS Retreat Brings Together Students Across All 13 Schools
The days were long and meaningful. One morning began with an 8 a.m. breakfast and an 8:30 prayer service. It would end with a 10:30 p.m. prayer service. The Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools Student Leadership Retreat, March 6-10, at the Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center in West Hartford, Connecticut, managed to pack a lot into its time frame. After hosting a virtual XBSS Retreat in 2021 due to the pandemic, our schools were thrilled to return in-person, to spend time together, learn, grow, and embrace what so many others who have gone before them experienced.
Did You Know?
SMR COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHTS 34 Connections 2022
Ben Horgan, XBSS formation director, opened the session on diversity and relayed a few historical stories from the school network, including the time St. Xavier in Louisville reached out and played Louisville Central in football before Kentucky integrated. Central was an all-black school that, at the time, could not play other local schools. The bold move by St. Xavier showcased a deeply rooted belief of the Xaverian Brothers, as stated in the Students from various XBSS schools during their retreat.
Small group discussions, guest speakers, thought-provoking activities, shared meals and daily prayer were just a few highlights of the retreat for the 78 high school juniors, 13 seniors and 18 adults. Service, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the Xaverian tradition were all explored to create an experience in which students came to realize their “connectedness” to the Xaverian charism. “Charity is fantastic,” said one presenter. “It is what you all do on a regular basis. You address the problem head on. We go to the soup kitchen, the shelter, we serve in those capacities and then we go home. The justice part is stopping the root cause, why we have to go to those charities, those homes, those shelters … stopping it in its tracks. And today we will learn about how to do that, at least begin to talk about that.”
“Fundamental Principles,” of the inherent worth and value that all people are created in God’s image.
Joe Cucinotta, a senior at Xaverian Brothers High School, was the videographer for this year’s retreat, which can be viewed on YouTube: xavb.ro/XBSS2022.
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
“One of the most meaningful aspects of the retreat is a sense of being part of something bigger than yourselves,” said Jim Conley, longtime Campus Ministry director at Xaverian Brothers High School in Westwood, Massachusetts. “It is connecting with the larger XBSS community, and the relationships that result from that, as well as the exchange of ideas about what is happening at the different schools, and giving the students an opportunity to bring those things back to their own school.”
“Thank you for this life-changing experience,” he said. “Much love.”
Reflection From Therese Annulis ’22:
Save the Date for 2022–23 Events! Knights Uncorked A Beer, Bourbon and Wine Tasting Event on the SMR Campus 7 p.m. Alumni Tailgating & Homecoming Game Knights vs. Bishop O’Connell 5:30 p.m. Tailgate 7 p.m. Game Time SMR Annual Golf Classic 8 a.m. Registration & Breakfast 9 a.m. Shotgun Start SEPTEMBERFRIDAY 16 OCTOBERFRIDAY 7 OCTOBERFRIDAY 14 St. Mary’s Ryken High School 35
“The XBSS Retreat was incredible! We were able to spend five days with 91 students from all 13 schools and hear talks from the 13 senior leaders, have small group meetings with students from other schools, pray for all the schools and just bond with the other schools! Our SMR group performed a skit about confessions, and I was able to give a talk on the Xaverian value of Zeal. Before going on the retreat, I never knew how connected the schools were, but after meeting all the amazing people and learning all about the Xaverian Brothers network I truly know how lucky we are to be a part of it at SMR! I was able to make so many friends from all the schools that I know I will have for a lifetime. Going on the retreat as a senior and being able to hear all about what the other schools do and then being able to help guide the six juniors as they decided what they wanted to bring back to the school made me feel that our school is in such great hands, and I am excited to see what they do with their new knowledge!”
Joe Whitaker P ’25, Denver Terrence, Joy Bowman and Ben Alexander Petr Theriault ’24 with his grandparents, Linda and Steven Petty
The annual SMR Golf Tourney was held Oct. 1 with a sold-out crowd hitting the course at 9 a.m. Alumni, parents and friends enjoyed a great day of golf at the Breton Bay Country Club. Our big winners for the day were an SMR-sponsored team consisting of Joseph Bryner ’17, Brian Loewe P ’17, Jason DeLucco ’98, P ’23, ’26 and Jason Early ’04.
Levy Colemangrandmother,’24
Jimmy Burke ’86, P ’19, ’22, president of the St. Mary’s Ryken Board of Directors
St. Mary’s Ryken Community Fellowship
ALUMNI NEWS 36 Connections 2022
Knights Uncorked! After two years of event hibernation, SMR hosted Knights Uncorked! in September 2021, a beer, bourbon and wine tasting event for our community. Guests were treated to delicious beers, bourbons and wine from around the world, as well as amazing food pairings by Quality Street Catering. Last year’s event sold out, so save the date for the second annual Knights Uncorked! on Sept. 16, 2022.
SMR Golf Tournament
Grandparents Day In the fall we held our annual Grandparents Day celebrations for our freshman and sophomore classes. We celebrated Mass with the school community, followed by a luncheon for the grandparents and their grandchildren. The students proudly gave tours of the Donnie Williams Center and showed off the SMR campus.
Dr. Rick Wood, president of SMR, presented the award to Jimmy and Kim, adding, “As board chair, Jimmy’s vision helped build the amazing complex that we are in today (the Donnie Williams Center). He also led the board to provide resources and a strong educational response to the recent pandemic. I appreciate his contemplative thoughts, mentoring guidance, and trust in me during some unchartered waters in education.”
Lt. Rob Russell ’85 and Capt. Steve Hall ’88 with National Honor Society students on Giving Tuesday Jimmy ’86 and Kim Burke P ’19, ’22 with two of their children, Andy ’22 and Samantha St. Mary’s Ryken High School 37
SAVE THE DATE!
Stephen Raley ’69, fourth from left, and Dr. Cinda and Carl Raley ’62 celebrate the winners of the George & Eleanor Raley Scholarship: from left, Caden Costanzo ’25, Kaylee Webb ’24, Lillian Merritt ’23, Sergio Guadalupe ’25 and Campbell Earhart ’22.
The Xaverian Society Reception held on Feb. 23 was a night of gratitude to celebrate friends and benefactors who are committed to St. Mary’s Ryken. Jimmy ’86 and Kim Burke were recognized as Pillars of the Community for their steadfast generosity and servant leadership to our school. The entire St. Mary’s Ryken community is grateful for their vision, leadership and dedicated service to our students, faculty and staff, and all the lives they have touched. Two of Jimmy’s siblings and two of their children were able to attend the celebration.
Xaverian ReceptionSociety
Every year in December, the people who have established scholarships at St. Mary’s Ryken whether individuals, families, alumni, businesses or foundations are invited to campus to meet the students who are benefiting from their generosity. More than 200 donors and students annually fill the Donnie Williams Center for a meal and conversation. Donors hear about the hopes and dreams of the students impacted by their gifts; students learn the stories of their scholarships’ namesakes and have the opportunity to thank their donors in person.
Giving Knights on Giving Tuesday
#GivingKnights 2022 is Nov. 29.
We asked you to join the Knighthood and you responded YES! Thank you to our alumni, parents, faculty and staff for showing your Knight Pride and donating to #GivingKnights on #GivingTuesday. Several National Honor Society students visited the Leonardtown branch of our sheriff’s office to drop off coffee, breakfast and notes of gratitude. They were greeted by Capt. Steve Hall ’88 and Lt. Rob Russell ’85.
Scholarship Luncheon
The SMR Show Choir performs for Knight Gala guests. ALUMNI NEWS What a Great Knight! The annual SMR Knight Gala was held April 2 at the Hollywood Firehouse Social Hall. The SMR community gathered together for the first time in two years and enjoyed dinner by Ken’s Creative Kitchen out of Annapolis, casino games, basket raffles, a silent auction and more! Our guests danced the night away to music by NightLife, and were treated to an amazing show by the SMR Show Choir and Jazz Band. Save the date for next year, March 25, 2023! Christine Senese ’72 and Steve Raley ’69 SMR Board Member Sue Ann Armitage ’83, P ’16 with Maryland State Sen. Jack Bailey ’83 38 Connections 2022
Nina Verghese was named senior director and practice lead, Campaigns & Advocacy at APCO Worldwide. “I’ve long admired the dynamic team at APCO and couldn’t be more thrilled about this opportunity!”
Class of 2000 Carrianne Santangelo Downey joined SMR in March as a long-term substitute in the math department, working with our Honors Pre-Calculus students. Carrianne began her undergraduate work in education at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, transferring to the University of Maryland, where she earned her B.A, double-majoring in economics and government and politics. She earned her M.A. from Johns Hopkins University in applied economics with a concentration in domestic policy. Her post-college work included working for the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Education Statistics Services Institute. She has been accepted to Notre Dame of Maryland University to begin work on her accelerated certification in teaching, secondary education.
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
Class of 1998 Tawny LaQuay is thriving under St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney Richard Fritz as a senior legal assistant. She was also recently appointed to the Board of Appeals for the Town of Leonardtown. Tawny enjoys giving back to the community where she lives and works.
With 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Susan Mudd Vogel P ’13, ’18 is transferring her skills and expertise from health care to education. She recently accepted the role of director of advancement at The Field School, a private independent school for grades 6–12 near the Georgetown/Grover Park areas of Washington, D.C. Susan will be part of the administrative team and lead a staff of four in the Advancement office as the school celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.
Class of 1988 Jake Heibel is set to retire as the principal of Great Mills High School after finishing a 30-year career with the St. Mary’s County Public School System. Jake is planning on taking a “gap” year to play tennis and go skiing as much as possible before seeking further employment opportunities.Afterasuccessful career at Deloitte, Tamika Langley Tremaglio started a new position as the executive director of the National Basketball Players Association.
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Alumni Class Notes
Class of 1999 Jonathan Roberts eclipsed the 4,000-win plateau in his harness horse-racing career at Ocean Downs, then capped the 2020 slate by taking the fall meet driving title at Rosecroft Raceway in Prince George’s County.
Class of 1985
St. Mary’s Ryken High School
ALUMNI NEWS 40 Connections 2022
Class of 2010 Guy Brown debuted his children’s book, “Look Up to See What the Weather Will Be.” You can find Guy forecasting the weather on-air at KARE 11 in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota. Guy enjoys volunteering at elementary schools, where he can share his passion for meteorology with lots of children. He is an active member of the National Weather Association and the National Association of Black Journalists.
Class of 2008 Kelly Fitzwater married Craig Berry on Sept. 25, 2021, at the Woodlawn Estate in Ridge, Maryland. Kelly works at General Electric in the renewable energy division. Kelly and Craig are preparing to move to Paris for a few years for her job; they will leave Maryland in mid-2022. JJ Raley and his wife, Aimee (SMR assistant director of admissions), welcomed their daughter, Callie Jane, on Dec. 2, 2021. JJ started working at OakPoint Insurance this past winter, alongside another SMR alum, Patrick Haley ’99, and remains the head boys soccer coach at SMR. JJ was named WCAC Coach of the Year in the fall of 2021!
Class of 2013 Jack and Michelle Yates Brandenburg welcomed their first baby, Renly Ann, on May 28, 2020, at 1:30 in the afternoon, weighing 7 lbs. 2 oz. and measuring 18.5 inches long.
Class of 2009 Ryan Fleming and his bride, Julia, were married on Oct. 9, 2021, at the Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian in Washington, D.C., by Monsignor Pope.
Class of 2012 Lawrence and Sarah Forte (SMR resource teacher) welcomed their second child, Louis, on Sept. 15, joining big sister Bernadette! This future Knight is already a big Caps fan. Like father, like son! “We hope he will play on the SMR hockey team like his Uncle Christopher (Class of 2015).”
Lance Casimir, a 2017 graduate of Catholic University, was appointed to the university’s Board of Trustees. Lance graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. Lance married Morgan Sanei in May 2020.
St. Mary’s Ryken High School 41
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
Class of 2014 Aleksey House graduated from George Washington Law School with her J.D. concentration in government procurement law. She is an associate attorney at Berenzweig Leonard LLP. Aleksey will be marrying fellow Knight Preston Dabbs ’12 in October 2022.
Marissa Somerville was sworn in as a new assistant state’s attorney in Anne Arundel County. Marissa took the oath from fellow alum Judge William Mulford ’78. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County in 2017 and her law degree from Barry University in 2020. Marissa was a dancer and basketball player during her years at SMR. Jenna Taylor married Kyle Boothe ’16 on Aug. 14, 2021, in Newburg, Maryland. With both Kyle and Jenna being from local families, it was a very large wedding! They felt so blessed to be surrounded by such a wonderful support system of family and friends.
Eun Kyung “Kylie” Gorenflo gave birth to a healthy girl, Hani Lee Gorenflo, on July 10, 2021. Kylie is now working as a behavior technician in North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Martin. Hani Lee loves cuddles and sings for Mommy and Daddy, and most importantly, she loves to eat, sleep and poop!
Sister CorredemptrixMaria (Emma Madden) made her final vows with the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará. President Rick Wood and John Olon, SMR director of Catholic identity and mission, attended the ceremony. We are very proud of Sister Maria’s commitment to her vocation. Our entire community will be praying for her as she resides at a monastery on the Jordan River at the site of Jesus’s baptism. See article on page 16. Class of 2015 Robbie Boothe married Grace Prelog on April 30 at Ocean Hall in Bushwood, Maryland followed by a reception at Bowles Farm. The couple honeymooned in the Bahamas. You can catch Robbie and his band playing around Southern MD this summer!
Jacob and Sarah Papp Chase welcomed their first baby on Aug. 19, 2021. Her name is Cecilia Rose!
Class of 2015 (continued) Connor Bullis married Anna Morrison in June 2022. Connor is the grandson of the late Pat Reithmeyer Kalnasy (SMA ’52), the son of Ritch Bullis and Marta Kalnasy Bullis (SMR ’82), and the brother of Haley Bullis (SMR ’17). Anna is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Eric Morrison of Montgomery County, Maryland. The couple wed at St. Joseph’s Church in Morganza, presided over by the Rev. James Morrison and the Rev. Nicholas Morrison, Anna’s brothers.
Brendan Harper visited campus to host a piano masterclass for our fine arts students. Brendan is a second-year graduate student at The Catholic University of America. He is pursuing a Master of Music degree with a dual concentration in piano performance and conducting. Brendan has been studying piano for over 15 years and currently studies with Dr. Ivo Kaltchev, head of the piano academic area at CUA. He has performed on campus and off-campus in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, including at churches, nursing homes, theaters, and the Kennedy Center. He recently made his international debut in Vienna, Austria. He has been teaching piano for over eight years, with experience teaching students of various ages and levels. Brendan has played and studied music from all periods, specializing in Romantic, Impressionistic and jazz music.
Catherine Nguyen received the Department of State Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) to study Bahasa Indonesia at the State University of Malang. CLS’s objective is to get university students to learn languages considered critical to American security and economic interests to employ in their professional careers.
Catherine said, “It was a great experience!”
Gabrielle Moore married Daniel Sydnor ’13 on June 5, 2021, at the Lady Star of Our Sea Church and then honeymooned in Cancun, Mexico. The best man was Chris Sydnor ’14, the maid of honor was Mallory Moore ’20, and three groomsmen were James Moore ’11, Chandler Moore ’17, and Julian Moore ’24. Daniel received an associate degree in art, and Gabrielle received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. They are both working for a gas and electric company in New Jersey that services a big chunk of the East Coast. Daniel works as a draftsman on gas utilities, and Gabrielle works as a design engineer for secondary power distribution. They are enjoying married life and adopted a Labrador named Moose!
On a chilly December afternoon, Thomas Showalter married Elisabeth in a beautiful wedding Mass in Alexandria, Virginia. The two then danced the night away to Chris Stapleton. The honeymooners fled the midAtlantic for warmer weather in the South.
ALUMNI NEWS 42 Connections 2022
Class of 2016
Tucker Jameson married Camryn Dougherty on June 19, 2021, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Dallas. They welcomed daughter Sophia Grace on March 22, 2022. Alison Johnson graduated from St. Mary’s College of Maryland, where she received a bachelor’s degree in music, focusing on composition and musicology. One of her pieces, “Setting Sail,” premiered during a River Concert at the college. Alison said, “SMR played such a big part in helping me discover my true passions: God, music and teaching.” She started graduate school at the Notre Dame of Maryland University’s Operation TEACH, and is teaching music and religion at the Sisters Academy of Baltimore.
Class of 2018 In December, Mindy McNamara graduated from managementbusinessUniversityShippensburgwithadoublemajorinbusinessandpersonal financial planning. Mindy graduated with high honors (magna cum laude). Before graduation, she received an offer for a full-time position. After graduating magna cum laude from the University of South Carolina in December 2021, Julia Vogel accepted an internship with Southern Way Catering to cap off her sport and entertainment management degree. In July, she will be relocating to Charlotte, N.C., to work as an associate recruiter for Signature Consultants, one of the nation’s largest staffing firms.
abroadJaidahttps://www.seasidesustainability.org/blog.here:isexcitedtobeplanninghersemesterfornextspringinCostaRica.
Class of 2021 Luke Getson attends the University of Notre Dame and made his debut in the marching band! Katelyn Kovach, who attends Catholic University, was crowned Cherry Blossom Princess in March 2022.
facebook SMR Alumni page: StMarysRykenAlumnifacebook.com/ facebook SMR High School page: @stmarysrykenSMRKnightsfacebook.com/ St. Mary’s Ryken High School 43
Class of 2020
Gia Beaton graduated from Villanova University in May 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. Currently, she is a regulatory affairs analyst at JP Morgan Chase & Co. in its New York City office. She’ll be attending Duke University School of Law in the fall.
Jaida Rhea is playing soccer at Goucher College. She is a Goucher representative to the NCAA Division 3 Student Athletic Advisory Committee, which is a role she will be in for the remainder of her time at Goucher. Jaida is also working as an intern for Seaside Sustainability. She was selected to work on their marketing team, and she is also the only undergrad writer for their blog regarding environmental issues. You can read some of her work
OUR XAVERIAN VALUES: HUMILITY | TRUST | ZEAL | COMPASSION | SIMPLICITY
Class of 2017
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44 Connections 2022
into
Mr. Frederick R. Mower (P ’79) 5/25/21 Mrs. Cheryl L. Kenney (P ’05) 5/26/21 Mr. James A. Simpson (P ’21) 5/27/21
Mr. John L. Madel Jr. ’56 (P ’88) 5/30/21
5/22/21
In Loving Memory daily we remember the family and friends of our community who have passed away. To submit a name our Book of Intentions, please complete the online form at www.smrhs.org/PrayerRequest or contact the Development Department at 301-373-4162.
Mr. George I. Buscall Jr. (P ’88) 5/27/21
Mrs. Catherine A. Lyon Moore ’78 6/3/21
Mr. Robert O. Guyther Jr. ’66 6/3/21 Mr. Arthur L. “Larry” Miller (Alumna Spouse ’78, P ’08, ’13) 6/6/21 Mrs. E. Anne McCoy Hayes ’71 6/7/21 Mrs. P. Ann Wentworth Varner ’71 6/8/21 Ms. Elizabeth J. Longmore ’64 6/11/21
Mass,
Mr. Cyril P. “Pat” Gerek (P ’78, ’85, GP ’14, ’17) 6/15/21 Mrs. Rosanna Roberts (P ’94) 6/24/21 Mr. William Jones Sr. ’48 (GP ’16) 6/26/21 Mr. Michael Monaco (GP ’16) 6/27/21 Mr. Thomas B. Aaron (P ’94) 7/5/21 Mrs. Brenda M. Russell Unkle ’76 (P ’05) 7/8/21 Mrs. Laurie Stackpole (GP ’10, ’13, ’16) 7/13/21
Book of Intentions Throughout the year during
Mr. James M. Banagan ’48 7/15/21 Mr. Tom Meiser (GP ’23) 7/24/21 Mr. Bobby Vallandingham (Alumna Spouse ’00) 7/26/21 Mrs. Lucille “Penny” W. Russell (Alumnus Spouse ’67) 7/27/21 Mrs. Jacqueline C. Dunham (P ’97, ’99) 7/28/21 Ms. Mary A. “Aggie” Stewart (P ’84, GP ’95, ’08) 7/30/21 Brother Richard Angarola, CFX ’60 (Former Principal ’83-’88) 7/30/21 Ms. Melody A. Russell ’10 8/12/21 Mr. Norbert M. Fenwick ’49 8/14/21 Mrs. Isabelle W. Raley ’48 (P ’72, ’74, ’81) 8/15/21 Mr. William N. Coughlon ’21 8/21/21 Dr. Michael W. Owens ’85 (P ’18, ’20) 8/23/21 Mrs. LeAnn Evans (P ’18) 8/23/21 Ms. Christine L. Komar ’85 8/24/21 Mr. Donald E. Swann (GP ’15, ’20, ’22) 9/1/21 Mrs. Dolores L. Mattare Shultz ’58 9/7/21 Mrs. M. Barbara Cecil Lawrence ’51 (P ’74, ’75, ’77, ’79, ’81, ’85) 9/11/21 Mr. Francis L. Williams (P ’84, ’86) 9/11/21 Mr. Robert W. Woodburn ’52 (GP ’14, ’17) 9/11/21 Mr. John K. “Ken” Cheseldine ’67 9/13/21 Mr. Richard W. Carroll (P ’73, ’87, GP ’05) 9/13/21 Mrs. Patty Runco (GP ’06, ’08) 9/17/21 Mr. William Elkins (GP ’16, ’16) 9/18/21 Mr. Howard R. Britton Jr. (Alumna Spouse ’50) 9/19/21 Mrs. Frances R. Dean (P ’81) 9/23/21 Mr. Peter Xenofondos (P ’87) 9/23/21 Mr. Emidio J. Pasqualucci (P ’86) 9/24/21 Mrs. Lucy A. Clarke Krug ’49 9/24/21 Mr. Donald L. Thompson (P ’81, ’82) 9/28/21 Mrs. Patricia M. Godwin (P ’79, ’81) 9/29/21 Mr. Joseph A. Baden (P ’89, ’99) 10/4/21 Mrs. Marion A. Cecil Tennyson ’51 (GP ’03, ’13, ’15, ’18, ’20, ’23) 10/6/21 Mrs. Christine Mackin Garner ’67 10/7/21 Mr. Robert G. Durbin (P ’87, ’93, ’94, GP ’15, Former Teacher) 10/14/21 Mrs. Lucille Bailey Doepkens ’43 (GP ’87) 10/21/21 Mrs. Elizabeth M. Medved (P ’04) 10/24/21 Mr. Michael R. Raley ’69 (Alumna Spouse ’72, P ’08, ’10) 10/26/21 Mr. Philip B. Shafer (P ’85, ’86) 10/27/21 Mrs. Elizabeth Goddard Johnson ’56 10/29/21 Mr. William P. O’Brien ’67 10/29/21 Mrs. Mary J. Spalding Cooper ’56 (P ’79) 11/4/21 Mr. Gregory A. Dean ’81 11/5/21 Mr. Linwood “Gene” Mozingo Jr. (P ’95, ’03) 11/8/21 Ms. Yvonne M. Joy (P ’07) 11/13/21 Mr. David C. Gardiner Sr. (P ’83) 11/13/21 Mrs. Mary E. Norris Goldsborough ’50 (P ’74, ’75, GP ’03, ’03, ’11, ’12, ’21) 11/16/21 Mrs. Barbara B. Grooms (P ’03) 11/18/21 Dr. S. Candace Guyther ’67 11/27/21 Mr. Michael W. Beavan ’68 12/2/21 Ms. Rita Younger (GP ’11, ’13) 12/17/21 Capt. Peter J. Riester, USN Ret. (P ’02, ’04) 12/19/21 Mrs. Mary H. Potter (P ’09, ’12) 12/21/21 Mr. Chuck Mays (GP ’13, ’16, ’20) 12/23/21 Mrs. Donna R. Conlon (P ’90) 12/23/21 Mrs. Mary Ruth Woodburn Bowles ’55 12/25/21 Ms. Mary M. Collins ’90 (P ’16) 12/26/21 Mr. John L. Sprague (P ’85, ’87, GP ’14, ’15, ’17, ’18, ’20, ’22, ’22, ’25) 12/28/21 Mrs. Fran Vogel (GP ’13, ’18) 12/31/21 Mr. Thomas C. Spalding Sr. (P ’68, ’71, ’74, ’76, ’77, ’78, ’79, ’81, ’82) 12/31/21 Ms. Judy Abel (GP ’16) 1/3/22 Mrs. Jean M. Valenta (P ’90, ’05) 1/8/22 Mrs. Catherine E. Lawrence Ludwig ’40 (P ’65, ’68, ’74) 1/14/22 Mr. Gerard Dipreta (P ’87, ’88) 1/16/22 Mrs. Mary Margaret Mattingly Yowaiski ’46 1/24/22 Mr. James F. Wible Jr. ’67 1/25/22 Mrs. Barbara C. Earnshaw Hall ’88 1/26/22 Mr. Thomas R. Simpson Jr. ’65 (P ’02)
loved one’s
P = parent of alum GP = grandparent of alum
Leslie Jackson ’02 ó Mr. Durbin was a godsend and his classroom was a sanctuary for a lot of us. He understood that kids sometimes just need a place to chill and he let us have that, and above all he truly cared about us. I don’t remember all of my Latin but I do remember that. May he Rest In Peace and may there be more teachers like him.
Sam Spaulding (SMR Latin teacher)
Rick Ringer (RHS ’81) He was a wonderful teacher and a great human being. He made a lasting impression on so many of us.
Sheila Williams Grine ’82 He was a good teacher. He was so patient when he directed our drama production in 1982.
Bob Durbin, a former Ryken High School and St. Mary’s Ryken teacher
Mr. Durbin Steve Harrison (RHS ’76) RIP Bob. He was an excellent instructor and a true gentleman. Jason Posey ’98 RIP Mr. Durbin. Will say an “Our Father” in Latin for you.
Mr. Durbin was our cheerleading manager back in 1972–73, when the SMA girls were cheerleading for Ryken. He was at every soccer and basketball game with us, varsity and JV. He was such a positive, cheerful man. We all loved him. May he Rest In Peace. ó
Mr. Durbin was a great teacher, and a very caring man. I thoroughly enjoyed his classes. He made a lasting impression on myself and so many… may he rest in peace.
In Memoriam
Mr. Frederick W. Christian III ’99 2/5/22 Mr. A. Victor Estep Jr. (P ’72, ’74, ’78) 2/14/22 Mr. B. Kennedy Abell Jr. (Alumna Spouse ’51, P ’77, ’81, GP ’05, ’08, ’11) 2/15/22
The SMR community mourned the loss of beloved teacher Bob Durbin, who taught for over 40 years at Ryken High School and then St. Mary’s Ryken. Below are some comments that were shared by alumni, parents and friends.
Mr. James G. Makrakis ’81 2/23/22 Mr. Richard F. Hutson Sr. (GP ’17, ’21) 2/27/22 Mr. Buddy W. McBride Sr. (P ’88, ’90, GP ’25) 3/3/22
So many good stories about Bob Durbin he is and was a blessing and inspiration to his students. Jan Colleary Timmer (SMA ’73)
Mr. Charles D. “Danny” Davis Jr. ’65 (Alumna Spouse ’66) 3/3/22 Lt. Cmdr. Harry R. Errington, USN Ret. (P ’73, ’74, ’77) 3/3/22 Mrs. Barbara Kane (GP ’10, ’11, ’14) 3/3/22 Mrs. M. Nancy Thompson Mattingly ’51 3/4/22 Mr. Christian S. Wirth ’21 3/6/22 Ms. Cynthia Cooley (P ’99) 3/17/22 Mr. Louis Holden (Alumna Spouse ’60) 3/21/22 Mrs. Catherine Gibson (P ’67, ’70, ’76, ’78, GP ’98, ’00, ’10, ’12) 3/25/22 Mr. C. Paul Gerek ’78 3/30/22 Mr. Charles Frain (Alumna Spouse ’63) 3/31/22 Mrs. Patsy Cheseldine (P ’80, GP ’18, ’23) 4/3/22 Mrs. Mary E. Bowles (P’ 65, GP ’88) 4/4/22 Mrs. Mabel L. Cheseldine Hayden ’41 (P ’72, GP ’88) 4/13/22 Mr. Donald B. Curtis ’68 4/18/22 Mrs. Eileen Jewell (GP ’10, ’17) 4/22/22 Mr. Richard T. Holden (P ’84) 5/12/22 Mrs. Liliane Jarboe (P ’78, GP ’11, ’18) 5/16/22 Mrs. Priscilla Duke Wentworth Hall ’47 (P ’66, ’67, ’71, ’74, ’79, GP ’08, ’10, ’12, ’16, ’18, ’22) Mary’s
Mrs. Margaret E. Cheseldine (Alumnus Spouse ’67, P ’05, ’12) 2/20/22
St.
1/29/22
Richard Angarola, St. Mary’s Ryken principal from 1983-88 Brother Richard Angarola, a former St. Mary’s Ryken principal, entered eternal life on July 30. Brother Richard served as principal of SMR from 1983–88. He was also a 1960 graduate of Ryken High School. May he rest in peace.
Brother
Diana Stellway Washabaugh ’05 I’m so sad to see this. God bless his soul.
Philomena Haley (SMA ’69, P ’94, ’97, ’99, GP ’24, ’26) Rest In Peace
Ryken High School 45
Dan Whetstine ’91
St. Mary’s Ryken A College Preparatory Catholic High School 22600 Camp Calvert Road Leonardtown, MD 20650 OrganizationNon-ProfitU.S.Postage PAID Leonardtown, MD Permit No. 38 a catholic school in the xaverian brothers tradition P CAMPS RUN THROUGH JULY 28 Visit smrhs.org/SummerKnights to learn more & register today! Receive 10% off! (Enter code 10off at checkout.)Registertoday for summerfun! All camps run ThursdayMonday— afternoonLate activityavailablecamps Full and half day options
