MCC Spring 2025 Connect

CONNEC

School Magazine for Melbourne Central Catholic High School

SPRING 2025

FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Members of the MCC Family, The 2024-25 school year has been eventful for MCC as we work to maintain our culture of continuous improvement. We opened the year with 450 students, an increase of 15 students from last year (we anticipate 460 students in 2025-26).

Our academic program expanded as we added several electives including Broadcast Journalism, Yearbook/Social Media, Genetics Honors, Earth and Space Science Honors, and Florida History.

Outside of the classroom, we added E-Sports to our activity program. Our athletic teams continued to be successful as football and softball captured District championships. MCC Track team indiviuals placed 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the FHSAA State Meet. More importantly, our student athletes excelled in the classroom.

Continuous improvement served as the center of our strategic planning process as 47 members of the MCC community gathered to develop a three-year strategic plan for the school. Led by Chris Mominey from Avanti Advisors, the group learned about the process we would use to establish goals for the school to achieve, goals based on the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools (NSBECS).

We have included an executive summary of the plan on page 26.

This issue of Connect also profiles Logan Montz ’19. His story inspires. Also, enjoy learning about our mission trip, campus activites, Giving Day 2025, and graduate updates.

St. Francis of Assisi said, “Start by doing what is necessary; then do what is possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”

We are thankful to the MCC family as you partner with us to move MCC forward.

Best,

Nick Regina President

ARTWORK BY: Sihui Yang '25

IN THIS ISSUE 2. From the President

12. class notes

4. mission trip

16. upcoming events

6. MCC alumni spotlightlogan montz '19

18. alumni events

8. The Big Question

24. giving day- 2025

10. Faculty SpotlightMrs. Dana Johnston

26. strategic plan

22. around campus

11. Coach's SpotlightWillie Tillman SPRING connect 2025 | 3

MISSiON TRIP 2025

tHE MCC CHARISM of generosity is defined as "Serving without question; giving without expectation; loving without exception." On March 15th, a committed and compassionate group of 9 senior students and 3 chaperones from Melbourne Central Catholic High School journeyed for a week to the mountains of the Dominican Republic on a mission rooted in service, humility, and love. This mission trip was not just a journey across borders—it was a profound experience of living out the corporal works of mercy, inspired by the example of Saint Teresa of Calcutta.

village—answering the call to “give drink to the thirsty.” Another group focused on teaching English to local students, offering the gift of education and companionship, thereby comforting the afflicted and instructing the youth.

Our missionaries returned with the feeling and understanding that they were blessed by their experience; that developed a deeper sense of our Franciscan virtue of generosity.

The Mission Trip was an incredibly fulfilling experience for me, both personally and professionally.

Guided by the belief that "we cannot do great things— It was rewarding to give back to a community in need, only small things with great love,” the students and I was inspired by the resilience and warmth of embraced their call to serve the poor and vulnerable in the people we worked alongside. This trip not only the sister Diocese of San Juan de la Maguana. allowed us to contribute to a vital water project, but also deepened our connections and understanding of Dividing their efforts between two key projects, the challenges faced by the community. one group worked diligently on a water initiative, helping to provide clean, life-giving water to a local - Jason Armstrong/ Dean of students

Our 2025 mission trip to the Dominican Republic was an incredibly impactful and life-changing journey. During our time there, we had the privilege of being welcomed into the heart of the communities we served, fully immersing ourselves in their culture and daily lives. Witnessing their way of life was both humbling and eye-opening, giving me a completely new perspective on life.

We worked with the local schools helping children learn to read and write in English, we also contributed to the completion of a water project that brought fresh, reliable water to a nearby village. Being present for the project’s inauguration and celebrating alongside the people of the village was a moment of joy and triumph I will never forget. Throughout our stay, we were met with endless hospitality and kindness, and embraced like family by everyone we met.

- Gianni Fucile '25 Attending this mission trip was truly a dream come true and beyond my expectations. Throughout the entire week, I felt that I was doing God’s work and learned how grateful I was for the opportunities I had after seeing how thankful everyone there was for the small things they had. I loved the chance to work with both the water project and the children for a day, and will certainly participate in another mission trip in the future. It was certainly a life changing experience!

- DANIEL ARRUBLA '25 The MCC Mission Trip gave me a completely different perspective of the global impact of MCC's clubs. When I was volunteering at the elementary school, I built strong relationships with all of the students. During a recess period, the children asked to see pictures of my life in the US, and they were intrigued with pictures of my leadership at MCC. One of the kids noticed a picture of me at MCC holding the Dominican flag to promote the Spanish Honor Society's Shoe Drive. Even being the president of this club, I had not yet grasped the true impact our MCC community has on the communities we help. When seven out of nine of the kids pointed to shoes that they personally own, it finally hit me: our efforts affect real people. This experience will carry on with me for the rest of my life, and I never would have had the chance to experience it without directly witnessing my impact.

- Santiago Rubio '25

SPRING connect 2025 | 5

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Logan Montz '19 Career Path- what DO you do and what are the services you provide?

The main focus of Montz Marine Management is to take the headache and troubles out of owning a boat.

Boats can be very expensive and are an investment that should be protected. We offer weekly, monthly, and quarterly plans to keep your boat in tip top shape. I manage boats from a 17’ Boston Whaler to a 56’ Viking. Our most popular plan is the monthly plan. We come to the boat once a month to wash/dry the whole boat and do whatever is needed. We keep the boats protected from the harsh sun with ceramic coatings and waxes. We turn the batteries on and make sure everything is working sound. Some clients also have us arrange engine work and services with the mechanics.

How did you go from an MCC graduate to your field?

After high school I attended the University of Florida and graduated with a degree in nutritional sciences (quite opposite of what I do now! Haha). I went into college with the intention of pursuing dental school/medical school. After shadowing dentists and learning what really went into medical school I found

it wasn’t for me. I moved home from college and was pretty unsure of what I wanted to do. I’ve grown up around the water boating and fishing. Between going to the sandbar and weeklong fishing tournaments I really learned how much goes into maintaining a boat. A really good friend of mine, Connie Arias, had a business similar to what I wanted in my business. I was very fortunate to have her take me on as an employee for a few months to show me how she runs her business. The Melbourne boating community is very cool because most people know each other or know of each other. Connie and I still work hand in hand to manage a good portion of the boats here in Melbourne.

What inspired you to pursue this career?

My love for the water was probably the biggest inspiration. I definitely found my passion for fishing at a young age from my father. My passion for fishing led to going on many different types of boats. I have logged thousands of hours on the water (most with my dad) which has made starting this business a bit easier. It makes working on a new boat a breeze because I am very familiar with many different boat systems.

Advice you would give to someone wanting to start their own company First off, I would highly recommend to do it. The freedom of making your own schedule and working whenever and however long you want is a great benefit.

My biggest piece of advice would be to foster good communication with your clients. It can be hard at times, maybe you really don’t feel like calling that person back. But the better you communicate the easier it is to run the business.

advice to younger self I would have to say sometimes you just have to let life take its course. Growing up is intimidating, no doubt.

I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do when I was 17 years old and now I look back on it realizing that it was totally okay. Another thing that I would say would be to focus on yourself. Not in a selfish way but in a way that you don’t constantly compare yourself to others. Some of your friends will be more successful, some less. But at the end of the day it’s your life and you have to be happy with it.

montzmarine@gmail.com

montzmarinemgmt

SPRING connect 2025| 7

T HT EH EBBI IGG QQ U EESSTTI OI ON N "What song instantly takes you back to your days in high school at MCC?" 1980's Michelle Batura Brown '81“Good Times Roll" by the Cars

1960’s Ed Gorman '67“Rhythm of the Rain” by The Cascades

1970’s Kathleen Vandemark Walker '72“Fortunate Son” by Creedence Clearwater Revival Patricia Wadsworth '73“I Heard It Through The Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye Ken Martin '73“American Pie” by Don McLean Anna-Maria Pearce Taylor '73"Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

Lisa Costa '82“867-5309/Jenny” by Tommy Tutone Diana Bodfish '82 – “Take It to the Limit” by the Eagles

Tammy Jo Colombe Jones '88“We are the world” anything by Wham!, Miami Vice soundtrack, anything by Prince, new edition (Jeri) Janet Jackson and Madonna.

Not just songs more the artists.

INXS, hair bands.

Dawn Cain Vevera '89"Once BittenTwice Shy" by Great White, "Love Shack" by B-52’s

Sara Rowlette Maguire '82“I Love Rock ’n’ Roll” Joan Jett & the Blackhearts

Patricia Daly Dezman (former staff) “Don't Stop Believin'”- by Journey!

Amy Doyle-White '82“Limelight” by Rush and “Heartbreaker” by Pat Benatar

1990’s

Nancy Oberschmid Erickson '83REO Speedwagon and “FreezeFrame” by The J. Geils Band

Roxanne Mintern Lestrange '93"These are Days "by 10,000 maniacs. For all my fellow Stingers: "Tricky" & "America"

David Mizell '83"Come Sail Away" by Styx Robert DeGiovine '83“Don't Stop Believin'” by Journey!

Mike Tumminello '93"Smells like Teen Spirit"

by Nirvana

Carrol Eckwall-Strupp '75“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Keith Mattingly '84"Closer to the Heart" by Rush

Christian Cribbin '93Tribe Called Quest, Boys 2 Men, Color Me Bad, Seal, House of Pain, Naughty by Nature, Marky Mark, Magic Mike Madonna, Nirvana, PJ, Chili Peppers, John Sacada!

Tina Gaston '76- _ “Show Me the Way” by Peter Frampton

Audra Bodfish Agramonte '87"Don't You (Forget About Me)" by Simple Minds

Terry Henderson '94Pearl Jam, Neil Young & Alice & Chains

Joseph Barrett '75“Smokin’ in the Boy’s Room” by Brownsville Station

Bill Bibby '77“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Susan Enfield '83Anything by Rush and Alabama

Aimee Ford Larkin '94Blind Melon

Christina Ferrer Conte '95"Today" by Smashing Pumpkins Hendrix Valenzuela '95Green Day Christy Collins Pillion '95Aerosmith, Billy Joel, Mariah Carey Neville Maycock Jr. '96"Bad" by Michael Jackson and "Tootsee Roll"by 69 Boyz Michael Carroll '96"Self Esteem" by The Offspring and Jimmy Buffett

2000’s Allison Reynolds '01"Wide Open Spaces" by Dixie Chicks. "Just to See You Smile"by Tim McGraw,and in a very different vein..."The Thong Song" TJ Cardile '02"B.O.B." by OutKast Dustin Wells '03"Mr. Brightside" by The Killers Alexis Grzymkowski '04"Hey ya" by OutKast

Tara Gomez Pringle '96Snoop Dogg

2010's

Jay Speicher '96"Buddy Holly" by Weezer

Kayal Kelly Turner '13"We are Young" by Fun

Amanda Moyles Gonnella '97Sublime, Nine-Inch Nails, 311 and for basketball players "Jump"

Katy Sherman '15"Party Rock Anthem" by LMAO & "Dynamite" by Tao Cruz

Liz Everett White '97"Sold"by John Michael Montgomery and "My Boo" by Ghost Town DJs

Michael Hopkins '15"The Boys of Fall" by Kenny Chesney

Megan Wheeler-Timm '97Sammy Kershaw

Madison Lierman Fox '16"Trap Queen"by Fetty Wap

Tony Chung '97"It was all a dream" by Notorious” BIG Stephanie Lesser ’97 -40 Oz to Freedom, Cranberries, Rancid, Ween, Bush, No Doubt, Smashing Pumpkins, Alanis… "You Oughta Know", "Don’t Speak", "1979", "Linger", "It’s the End of the World As We Know It", I could go on and on...

Catherine Parsons Balavender '98"Wanna Be" by The Spice Girls Sarah Gardiner Bendix '98"Time of your life" by Green Day

SPRING connect 2025 | 9

FA C U LT Y S P O T L I G H T MRS. DANA JOHNSTON I'm a born and raised Califorian. I've been teaching for 23 years, many of those years at the Catholic high school from which I graduated. I've been married to my husband, Joe, for 10 years and we have two rambunctious boys, Everett and Callum. We moved to Florida two years ago and we are really enjoying it. It's hard to be away from our family but I got really lucky joining MCC because I've met so many wonderful people who have really helped me and my family adjust and feel like we are part of a community. I'm currently teaching Broadcast Journalism, Yearbook/ Social Media 1, Accelerated and Honor English 2 and AP English Language and Composition. I've enjoyed this year at MCC so much. It's been a chance to get to know my students more, their families and my MCC colleagues.

WHAT LED YOU TO BECOME A TEACHER?

After working for Teen Magazine for several years, I decided that I would rather help young people find their academic talents and skills. I think I always knew, even in college, that I would one day go into teaching. They say that Catholic education is a calling and not a career, and I truly believe that. God had a plan and after my first couple years of teaching, I felt like I was where he intended. Those first couple of years, I was really just trying to find my way and not to mess everything up.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO HELP STUDENTS SUCCEED IN YOUR CLASS?

Motivation over the course of the last few years has definitely been a challenge, but ultimately, students just want to be heard and understood like all of us.

I find that the times when I just let them talk and really listen, they are more willing to give me the same respect. I also set high expectations for my students because I know they can, and I hope that I help them see that.

MELBOURNE CENTRAL CATHOLIC | 10

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT TO TEACH?

AP English Language is my favorite course to teach.

That class really enables students to find their voices.

We have some great class discussions. I also love watching students make connections or understand new perspectives, and sometimes, I will ruin movies and TV shows for them because they are now looking at the rhetoric behind the script.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WORKING WITH STUDENTS?

THING

ABOUT

Everyday is different. Over the course of my career, the generational shift has been really interesting to watch - slang, clothing, perspectives and cultures. It's fun to see even though I had to ban the consistent talk of Labron, and getting used to being called Bruh!

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR HOBBIES OR INTERESTS OUTSIDE OF TEACHING?

I still have little ones at home. My sons are 7 and 3, so my family does a lot of Disney or exploring our new home, Florida. I try to spend as much time with them as I can since I know these years are special and go quickly. For myself, I like to read (shocking right, an English teacher who likes to read), cook/bake and travel.

in the red zone with Head football Coach willie tillman best coaching advice i have received: Sports team I cheered for growing up:

Never demonstrate a drill full speed

Pittsburgh Steelers

best pregame mUSIC:

i'm happiest when: The people I love are happy

"Here I Go" Mystikal

favorite sports team:

proudest achievement: My kids

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

the person i most admire: Barack Obama

Best life decision: Going to college

greatest fear: Drowning

a talent i would like to possess: To play the piano

Personal Motto: Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart,and lean not on your own understanding, all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths."

A season is sucessful when: To me, a successful season isn’t measured solely by wins and losses. It’s about the lessons learned—fortitude, accountability, and commitment to teammates and coaches. It’s about putting a product on the football field that reflects Christ-loving student-athletes who compete with integrity, passion, and a relentless hustle toward a shared goal.

When individuals and the team show growth— from the first practice to the final whistle— spiritually, emotionally, and athletically, then that season has been a true success.

CLASS NOTES 1960's

1970s

JOHN MCRAE '66

JOSEPH BARRETT '75

With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, he was named Georgia Teacher of the Year in 1978, later serving as a building-level administrator, college professor, and educational leader recognized as one of Georgia’s High Performing Principals in 2006. A Fulbright Scholar and founder of the Georgia Teachers of the Year Association, his legacy continues through his contributions to teacher development, policy advisement, and his induction into Valdosta State University's Education Hall of Fame.

1980s JOHN BANKO '87

a finance professor at University of Florida recently had fellow MCC graduate EVA SUTTON '23 in his UF Business Finance class this spring semester.

has been a Catholic Priest for the Diocese of Fargo since 2005.He is very thankful for the Catholic Education that he received from MCC. JAMES A. RALPH '75

graduated University of Florida degree in Finance 1979, followed by an MBA from Florida Tech in 1983. He is currently the co-founder and owner of SCIS, a software and engineering company in Melbourne, Florida. In his spare time he enjoys traveling the world with his girlfriend, Marie.

JOHN HOWARD '78

retired from US Marine Corps 1982-2002. Supervisor at The Home Depot for over 20 yrs. John is currently retired.

HENDRIX VALENZUELA '95

Go Hustlers, Go Gators!

1990s TERRY HENDERSON '94

After graduating from FSU with his Masters in Interactive Communication Technologies Terry became a college professor teaching Marketing to Public Speaking courses at FSU, Valencia College, Full Sail and EFSC. He realized however that real estate was his passion. Terry is currently a realtor with Carpenter/Kessel Compass team. Check out Terry’s YouTube and Facebook channel “What Up Brevard!” where he posts useful and entertaining content about the ever-changing real estate market.

recently accepted a new role as an Emergency Manager for the US Capitol Hill under the Command & Coordination Bureau with the United States Capitol Police. He said he "is truly honored to be chosen to play a key role in emergency preparedness and protection for the members of the 119th Congress, the Capitol Hill complex, and the heart of American Democracy."

DR. LEIGH PAULEY '05

2000s DR. ANGIE MCNEIGHT’ 04

has been named a University of Florida 40 Gators Under 40 Awardee.

melbourne central catholic | 12

moved back to Melbourne and opened her Sports Chiropractic office: Launch Sports Chiropractic. She will celebrate the 4th anniversary of her practice in August.

CLASS NOTES 2020s

2010s NICHOLAS PERKINS '13

currently works as a Sander at Essential Cabinetry Group for the past 2 years while pursuing a geographical information systems course at Eastern Florida State College.

STEPHANIE MACDONALD '21

graduated from Florida State University in May 2025. She earned a bachelor of science in psychology. She is currently working for VITAS Healthcare.

MARISSA KASCH '21

VINNY CAPRA '14

graduated Summa cum Laude from the University of Florida in May 2025. She received her bachelor of science degree in sports journalism with a minor in communications studies. She is starting her career at Media Mobilize.

has spent the past seven years between the minors and the majors, but through persistence and strong spring training, the third baseman has made the Milwaukee Brewers’ regular-season roster.

Congrats Vinny!

CONNOR JUSTIN '18 recently earned is bachelor of science degree from the University of North Florida in nursing. Connor is continuing his career in the medical field by accepting a position as a nurse in the emergency room at Saint Vincent's Hospital in Jacksonville!

EMILIE LESTRANGE '21

graduated in May 2025 with a bachelor of science degree in health science from the University of Florida. She will continue at UF for her masters in public health.

ANNIE MACKAY '21

graduated from Clemson University in May 2025 with a degree in biosystems engineering. She has accepted a job at Thomas & Hutton where she will be working as a Civil Engineer Designer in Charleston, SC.

MADISON BELMONT '19

graduated May 2024 from Florida State University with a bachelor of science degree in nursing. She is currently working at North Shore University Hospital in NY.

MEGAN KNICK '21

recently participated in the Disney College Program as a Character Performer.

KYLIE JUSTIN '23

working as a lunchtime server at Yellow Dog restaurant ran into Fr. Karl while he was in town having lunch with another local priest. The two snapped a selfie after reminiscing about the "good old" OLL days.

MELBOURNE CENTRAL CATHOLIC | 13

MEGAN TIERNEY '23

is pursuing a mathematics and statistics degree at the University of Florida. She is a Florida Cicerone and will study abroad for a second time this summer.

SPRING connect 2025 | 13

ENGAGEMENTS SHAYLEE MARKEL '20 CHRIS HARNDEN '19

recently became engaged to Kaelen Birkholz.

Christian lives in Chicago and works as an underwriting analyst for AIG.

recently became engaged to Gavin Seaman and they plan to marry in January 2026 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Shaylee and Gavin were introduced to each other through mutual friends during their high school years and later rekindled in 2022. Their engagement took place at Shaylee's alma mater, Florida Tech, in the botanical gardens.

AMANDA BEACH THEODORE '17

Has been dreaming of running in the Boston Marathon professional field since she was young and her mom put the idea in her head. Amanda got the opportunity to realize the Boston Marathon dream this year on April 21st.

She ended up placing 31st overall female and 14th American female, running a time of 2:34.

These days, she's chasing her dreams to run professionally in the marathon while balancing a full time job. Her husband, Chris Theodore, is a crucial part of her success, supporting her dreams every day. They recently got married on May 3rd, 2025 in Colorado and are so excited to embark on this next chapter of our lives in marriage.

babies

MATT AND KATY MAGUIRE '12 welcomed their second baby, Reese Elizabeth Maguire, on September 24, 2024. Big brother Logan Patrick (2 yo) loves his sister.

SHELBY VILARDEBO '14

welcomed her son Styles Brooke Vilardebo on April 27, 2025.

How’s it going?

Submit your class notes at www.melbournecc.org/alumni

BOB RAUCH '96

and his wife, Teresa, welcomed their third child, Silas Gray, in July 2024. His brothers, Auggie (7) and Jules (5), can’t get enough of him.

Weddings

ANNE LAIRD '16 BEN VILARDEBO '19

married Raychel Trocki on February 1, 2025 at Ascension Catholic Church. Pictured above with cherished MCC friends and family: Caden Englehart '19, Anthony Santo ‘19, Evan Bone, Ryan Monte,Michael Fleckenstein, Ken Vilardebo ‘16, Zane Vilardebo ‘26, Sean Hamilton ‘19, Ben Vilardebo '19 & Raychel Vilardebo, Emily Handschuh, Sarrah Trocki, Anastasia Vilardebo ‘16, Brooke Vilardebo ‘13, Gracie Lopez, Shelby Vilardebo ‘14 and Aubree Dillon.

wed John Wahl at Ascension on May 25, 2024.

Featured in the photo are Sarah Laird '17, Katherine Laird '21, Tim Laird, Anne Laird '16, John Wahl, Rosemary Laird, Lauren Laird, and Ben Laird '14

MADELINE MACDONALD '18

married Simon Tong on June 1, 2024, in Atlanta, GA, where they currently reside.

Pictured below, you'll spot cherished members of their Hustler family, arranged from left to right: Sydney MacDonald ‘21, parents Bob and Jojo MacDonald, the happy couple, younger brother Brendan MacDonald ‘23, and older brother Robbie MacDonald ‘16.

JACQUEE BELL '09 AND JOE AUCOIN '10

MADISON DONOVAN '16 & GREG JOHANNING '16

tied the knot on March 29, 2025 in Tampa, Florida at Sacred Heart Catholic Church surrounded by their closest friends and family. Madison and Greg have been together for 10 years, since 11th grade in high school.

The newlyweds now live in New Jersey and are excited to begin their next chapter together.

tied the knot on November 2, 2024, in a beautiful ceremony in Charlotte, NC surrounded by their closest friends and family. The newlyweds are excited to begin their next chapter together, filled with love and happiness.

SPRING connect 2025 | 15

UPCOMING EVENTS

MCC Summer Camps Learn more with QR Code

Homecoming Friday, October 17 Alumni Tailgate 5:30 PM MCC Campus

20-Year Reunion Class of 2005 October 17-19

Game- 7:00 PM MCC vs. Orlando Christian Prep Hustler Stadium

Contact: Brooke Link '05 Brookeml28@gmail.com Facebook Page: “MCC Class of 2005 20th Reunion”

'05

'84 Open House

Open House Sunday, September 21 MCC 12:00-1:30 PM

40-Year Reunion Class of 1984 (hurricane make-up) October 17-19 Contact: Debbie Sanders Kelly '84 (407) 310-4011 tdkfinfan@aol.com Tracey Armstrong '84 (321) 795-1713 Traceyarmstrong0617@gmail.com

melbourne central catholic | 16

'95

30-Year Reunion Class of 1995 October 17-19 Contact: Gregory Tsark '95 MCC.tsark@gmail.com

60-Year Reunion Class of 1966 May 2026 Alumni Memorial Mass Sunday, November 9 Sullivan Campus Ministry Center 10:00 AM

Contact: MCC to help coordinate stewarta@melbournecc.org MCC Giving Day Wednesday, February 25, 2026

'66

'76

Artwork by: Arabella Colón '25

50-Year Reunion May 2026 MCC Christmas Concert & Art Show Monday, December 8

Green & Gold Gala Saturday, March 28, 2026 MCC Hurley Hall

Contact: MCC to help coordinate stewarta@melbournecc.org

MCC Hurley Hall 7:00 PM

We invite you to reconnect with MCC and your classmates. Return to campus to witness the amazing things happening with our students today. Keep us updated on your life events and come attend an event at MCC throughout the year!

Adrienne Stewart '96 Director of Marketing & Engagement

ALUMNI EVENTS HOMECOMING 2024 Hustler fans gathered for Homecoming on Friday, October 4, 2024. Festivities started before the game in the Alumni Tailgate tent. The football team dominated against Halifax Academy with a 49-0 win! Our homecoming court gathered for a quick photo before the game.

REUNIONS 50TH REUNIONCLASS OF 1974

Members of the class of 1974 gathered during Homecoming weekend. The group enjoyed spending time together at the Homecoming tailgate and game, relaxing at local favorite restaurants, and celebrating with a class mass at MCC on Sunday.

40TH REUNIONCLASS OF 1985 The Class of 1985 had a wonderful weekend of fun and fellowship. Friday night they gathered at Nomad’s. A rosary service was held at the beach for our dear friends who have passed away. The main event was at the Eau Gallie Yacht. A great time was had by all!

ALUMNI EVENTS 20TH REUNIONCLASS OF 2004 The Class of 2004 started their celebration weekend off with members of the class coming to MCC on Friday and speaking with our Seniors about college and career paths. The festivities continued at Intercoastal Brewery Friday night. Saturday the group gathered for family fun at Paradise Beach, evening cocktails and dinner at Hotel Melby, and a farewell brunch with bagels on the beach Sunday.

They even had a special guest, Mr. Mancini, stop by to visit with the class!

ALUMNI MEMORIAL MASS 2023 The MCC community gathered together on Sunday, November 5, 2023, to honor the memory of all the deceased graduates and staff.

Planning a Reunion?

Connect with us: stewarta@melbournecc.org

ALUMNI MEMORIAL MASS The MCC community gathered together on Sunday, November 3,2024, to honor the memory of all the deceased graduates and staff.

Photo credit: Eugene Alonzo

SPRING connect 2025 | 21

AROUND CAMPUS CAMPUS UPDATES

WELCOME TO HUSTLER STADIUM

MCC was awarded a Florida Nonprofit Security Grant, which enabled us to enhance the safety of our campus.

Check out the brand-new windscreen wrapping the stadium bleachers! Huge thanks to our amazing MCC families—your Gala donations helped make it happen.

We replaced single pane doors at our gym (Hurley Hall), installed automated Door Access System for seven campus buildings, and added 3M window security films for six campus buildings.

MAKING WAVES AT STATES Congratulations to Mimi Estrada '25 who competed in both of her individual events: 50 Freestyle & 100 Butterfly at States this past Fall.

DISTRICT CHAMPIONS Congratulations to Varsity Football for claiming District Championships for the second year in a row this past Fall!

TRACK & FIELD STATE CHAMPIONS Justin Woulard ’25 defends his title as 1A Long Jump State Champion and takes 1st in both the 100m and 200m!

The boys’ 4x100m relay (Woulard ’25, McNab ’26, Dewitt ’27, Flores ’27) grabbed 2nd place, while Jahkya Miller ’25 placed 3rd in the 400 hurdles, and Sydney Salars ’26 finished 5th in high jump.

ON THE ROAD TO STATES! Huge congratulations to the Varsity Softball team for their 3rd District Championship and a strong start in Regionals! The Lady Hustlers are clearly on a roll. Best of luck as they continue their journey to States—bring it home! Let's Go Lady Hustlers!

RACE TO REGIONALS Gabriel Lastinger '28 qualified for the Regional Cross Country competition this past Fall—an impressive achievement for a firstyear runner.

AROUND CAMPUS NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS

GOLD KEY AWARD!

Congratulations to George Liou '25 who has received recognition as a National Merit Semifinalist! We are very proud to share that Michael Green '25 and Daniel Arrubla '25 received National Merit Commended recognition.

A big shoutout to MCC sophomore, Penelope Warren '27, for winning the Gold Key Award in Photography from the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers!

STUDENTS FOR LIFE ORGANIZATION COLLEGE-BOUND STUDENT-ATHLETES! MCC is incredibly proud of our student-athletes who will be continuing their athletic journeys at the collegiate level.

This past year, we proudly hosted both Fall and Spring Athletic Signing Days to honor their achievements.

The STUDENTS FOR LIFE organization at MCC recently visited the Basilica Mary Queen of the Universe in Orlando. The students participated in a community rosary, with Bishop Noonan presiding over the Mass.

In total, 11 MCC student-athletes have committed to competing at the collegiate level. we couldn't be more excited to see them continue their path to greatness!

MINI CAREER DAY!

DONATING FOR A CAUSE

In March, juniors and seniors had the opportunity to interact with MCC alumni and friends who provided valuable insights into their professional journeys. Furthermore, our freshmen and sophomores engaged in a meaningful discussion centered on mental health.

This year MCC's National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society held two blood drives. MCC students and staff donated blood to help save lives!

MCC GIVING DAY 2025

BY THE NUMBERS

$65,215 The MCC community generously invested in today’s students by supporting academics, area of greatest need, athletics, faith formation, financial aid/scholarships, and fine & performing arts.

Donors

Raised

Alumni

46

$34,920

Alumni Parent

15

$4,628

Board Member

9

$3,600

Current Parent

57

$13,541

Former Staff

3

$175

Friend

9

$3,026

Grandparent

9

$700

Matching Gift Company

3

$800

Staff

54

$3,825

Total

212

$65,215

ACADEMIC PROGRAM DONORS: 9 RAISED: $350 ATHLETICS DONORS: 19 RAISED: $1,750

AREA OF GREATEST NEED (U) DONORS: 151 RAISED: $57,215

FINE & PERFORMANCE ARTS DONORS: 5 RAISED: $450

FAITH FORMATION DONORS: 5 RAISED: $625 FINANCIAL AID/SCHOLARSHIPS DONORS: 13 RAISED: $2,875

$5

LARGEST GIFT

$20,000

CLASS DONORS

Constituency

SMALLEST GIFT

*Includes grads who are current parents

GIVING DAY GIFTS

TOTAL DONORS: 205

Class

Number

1965 1966 1968 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1980 1983 1985 1986 1987 1988 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2002 2003 2005 2009 2010 2011 2012 2020 2021

3 1 2 6 3 1 3 5 1 2 1 2 3 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 3 3 1 1 3 1 2 1 1 2 1

Total

62

SPRING connect 2025 | 25

strategic plan 2025 In August 2024, 47 members of the MCC community gathered to start the process of developing a three-year strategic plan for the school. Led by Chris Mominey from Avanti Advisors, the group learned about the process we would use to establish goals for the school to achieve, goals based on the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools (NSBECS).

Participants then worked in committees from August 2025 through February 2026, to develop goals and strategies for each.

Their work is a wonderful tool that will help us maintain the planning culture that has been a long-time part of MCC.

Mission & Catholic Identity

Governance & Leadership

Strengthen our Catholic identity and Franciscan values.

Foster leadership, accountability, and transparency.

• Integrate Catholic teaching across the curriculum.

• Create an Implementation Committee for planning oversight.

• Enhance service-learning and faith-formation.

• Launch Franciscan Values Days & a mentorship program.

• Launch a communications and reporting hub.

• Expand student engagement with Franciscan communities.

• Continue Board self-assessment and Board retreats.

• Provide faith-based formation for staff.

• Formalize succession planning for leadership roles.

• Grow leadership development with university partners.

• Enhance student leadership via mentoring.

Academic Excellence

Operational Vitality

Innovate curriculum and promote student well-being.

Ensure long-term sustainability and community engagement.

• Add engineering-focused electives and clubs.

Business Operations

• Build partnerships for career pathways.

• Enhance performing arts and IT programs.

• Launch a comprehensive student mental health initiative.

• Promote data-informed instruction and learning support.

• Create campus master and financial plans.

• Establish reserve funds and grow endowment.

• Align facilities planning with strategic goals.

Mission Advancement • Analyze the regional Catholic school landscape.

• Strengthen alumni engagement and events.

• Launch a Parent Association • Develop a robust, multi-year marketing plan.

CORE VALUES Generosity – Serve without question, give without expectation, and love without exception.

Humility – Seek and promote the good in all creation.

Inclusivity – Embrace diversity and respect our differences.

Integrity – Chose words and actions that reflect our inner goodness.

Strategic Plan 25-26 Participants AL – Alumni AP – Alumni Parent BOD – Board of Directors

CP – Current Parent FR – Friend

NP – New Parent ST – Staff

Mission & Catholic Identity

Academic Excellence

Joyce Brasure (FR) Laura Breisch '92 (CP/AL) Carrie Eller (ST) Lise Fishe (CP) Karin Harnden (AP) Dean Morrison (CP) Fr. Vince Wirtner (ST)

John Bartos (CP) Samantha Fowler '86 (ST/AL/NP) Carol Guthrie (ST) Mary MacDonald (AP) Jan MacKay (AP) Gerry Oswald (FR) Lori Smithey (CP) Susan Strahle '65 (BOD/AL/AP) Art Tecson (CP)

Operational Vitality (Mission Advancement)

Governance and Leadership Jamey Carroll (CP) Chris Harnden (AP) Dana Johnston (ST) Angela McNeight '04 (AL) Jennifer Tecson (CP) Chris White '97 (CP/AL) Patrick Wingate (CP) Jim Ziarno, Jr. '88 (ST/AL/AP)

Operational Vitality (Business Operations) Nan Evans (ST/AP) Shawn Gross (ST/AP) Sean Harnage '94 (CP/AL) Brendan Lestrange '20 (AL) Neville Maycock Jr '96 (AL) Tim Muth (BOD/AP) Dave Parker (ST) Matt Passarella '99 (BOD/AL) Patricia Rice (CP) Sean Rice (CP) Clay Slentz '11 (ST/AL)

Cathy Bonenberger '95 (CP/AL) Kim Carroll (CP) Ed Henry (ST/AP) Eric Hoppenbrouwer '04 (AL) Janet Keany (ST/AP) Jared Moyles '02 (AL) Bobby Norton '05 (CP/AL) Krystle Sandy (ST) Adrienne Stewart '96 (ST/CP/AL) Tessie Wilkie '85 (AL/AP) Jasin Youmans '94 (AL)

154 e. florida avenue | melbourne, fl 32901 321.727.0793 | www.melbournecc.org

FOLLOW US and

your fellow Hustlers website

www.melbournecc.org

facebook

melbournecentralcatholic

instagram

mcchighschool athletics_mcc

twitter

@MCC_HighSchool

linkedin

Melbourne Central Catholic High School