MCC Connect Spring 2024

School Magazine for Melbourne Central Catholic High School

Artwork: Sihui Yang, Class of 2025

FROM THE PRESIDENT

As we quickly approach the end of the 2023-24 school year, I’m reminded of the sum of the meaningful words of St. Francis of Assisi:

"A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows."

I closed my remarks at our recent Green and Gold Gala with these words noting that we are blessed to have 475 single sunbeams, our students and staff, here at MCC every day. Each lights the way reminding us of the importance of living our mission in the spirit of St. Francis.

Each also lights the way as we start Strategic Planning 2024-25 and recognize the impact of the past, the challenges of today, and most importantly, the opportunity of tomorrow.

This issue of Connect reflects this same spirit. Enjoy reading about two of our graduates, Lisa Costa ’82 and Maureen Gerrity ’07. Their stories are inspiring. Enjoy reading about many of the activities here on campus. Enjoy reading about upcoming events like Homecoming and our Alumni Memorial Mass.

Fr. Dolan’s 1961 vision for a Catholic high school in Brevard County remains vibrant and dynamic.

We remain grateful to all members of the MCC family for all you do to keep us moving forward and help us continue the work Father and the Franciscan Sisters started.

Best,

Nick Regina

From the President

Thankful for Teachers

Alumni Spotlight - Lisa costa '82

A lumni Spotlight - maureen gerrity '07

class notes

upcoming events

alumni events

EVOLUTION OF THE BEE

giving day thanks

the Big question

coach spotlight

Around campus

volunteer award - neville maycock '96

teacher tributes

HONORING THOSE WHO MADE A DIFFERENCE

CAROL STEWART

Mike Bitter ‘83

"My favorite was Mrs. Stewart for Typing I and II as well as Journalism (I was co-editor of the Beeline). I always say that typing was the single best class I ever took. Mrs. Stewart was a great teacher and such a kind person."

Elizabeth Cullen Beasley ‘83

"Mrs. Stewart loved her students, even the students who were a bit of a handful. I'm a teacher now and I always try to get my students to feel like they matter the way Mrs. Stewart made me feel."

Ron Barile ‘87

"Mrs. Stewart was the best teacher. I had her for typing. At the time I didn’t understand how important typing was and Mrs. Stewart explained it to me to help me realize I wouldn’t have been able to survive college or the professional world without her instruction!"

seNora ralph

Mary Ann Kise-Bowman '70

"Mrs. Ralph was an amazing Spanish teacher along with her energy and love for the language and students."

Allison reynolds

Katy Sherman '15

"Ms. Reynolds did so much for student life. She ran Student Council, Green & Gold, and Mini Dance Marathon, making sure students had great opportunities to connect. She was a great science teacher and taught me so much in the classroom. Her presence was so energetic."

Sister mary Joan

Anne Kennedy Krieger ‘71

"Sister Mary Joan was one of my favorite teachers. Even though I was not great at Latin II, I enjoyed learning about it. She made us think every day about the history, the language and how to read and write in Latin. She also made us smile or laugh and was a great storyteller."

Gerry Thistle ‘73

"Sister Mary Joan taught World History and was the best teacher I ever had. She ignited my love for history. Smart, humorous, and definitely in charge of the classroom. A truly remarkable teacher. Loved and respected by all."

Charlotte Mclaughlin '73

"My favorite teacher of all time was Sister Mary Joan. I loved her enthusiasm and passion for history as she showed how battles were won with x’s and o’s all over the chalkboard just like football plays. I have loved history ever since."

kathy gotshall

Samantha Fowler, PhD '86

"I've been interested in biology and genetics since I was a young child. Mrs. Gotshall was my biology teacher and it was because of her that I wanted to become a teacher. I once told her I wanted to have her job, and now I'm a biology teacher at MCC."

GEORGE LODOEN

Mandy Koons-Stapf ‘96

"Mr. Lodoen made math exciting and told the best stories! He encouraged me, a young woman in the 90s, to apply to the academies. Nominated to both Westpoint and the Naval Academy. I wound up with a full Navy ROTC scholarship, and majored in Mathematics at Georgia Tech. I now mentor other women in STEM as a chief digital engineer! He never saw gender, only talent!"

sister virginia mary

Michael Sauthoff ‘69

"Sister Virginia Mary taught math and science courses. She helped prepare me for an engineering career."

Ned Sauthoff ‘67

"Sister Virginia Mary for demonstrating careful and effective teaching of math and biology, while also demonstrating professionalism and concern."

Joy patterson

Michelle Henderson '06

"Joy Patterson is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. She challenged me to be a better writer and critical thinker. She cared deeply about all her students."

Michael Jimenz ‘04

"My favorite teacher while at MCC was Mrs. Patterson. She was my teacher for AP English Literature and AP English Composition. Coming of age at MCC, I knew I did not completely fit in at school. That said, Ms. Patterson showed me different worlds than the one I was living in through the works she chose for us to read. I am thankful for her work and that of the other wonderful educators at MCC who make space for diverse students who all find themselves in a particularly awkward and important phase of life."

chuck kelly

Brendan Mahoney '10

"Chuck Kelly is the best teacher I ever had in my entire life. For someone to be able to make an Honors Calculus class my favorite should tell it all. From truly caring about his student's success to just setting a wonderful example of how to carry yourself and how to accept everyone for who they are. Thank you Mr. Kelly!"

THANK YOU

SHOUT OUTS

Kevin Rambo '82

"Mr. Wanagill and Mr. Marvelthe two best, most interesting teachers I've had."

Ally McGinty Strantz '90

"I became a teacher of social studies (and even taught at MCC) because of of Mrs. Renee White!"

Mary Kowalak Morton ' 94

"Mr. Galli made math make sense! He was so patient and helpful."

Christy Collins Pillion '95

"I always loved Mrs. Zinone’s classes."

Maribeth Stauffacher '97

"Mrs. Johansen, Mrs. Patterson, and Mrs. Carroll. These women are why I wanted to be a teacher; they saw things in me I never would have recognized without their influence… life changers."

Tamara Shaw Davidson ‘97

"Mrs. Pecor and Coach Dooley are some of my all-time favorites."

Sarah Gardiner Bendix '98

"Mrs. Hershbach….English."

Crystal Kocol '01

"So many good ones! I’ll never forget Mr. Duncan, Coach Pinabell and Mr. Amato."

Byron Silva '16

"Dan Ensell was the best!"

SISTER VIRGINIA MARY

SISTER MARY JOAN BURKER CAROL STEWART

GEORGE LODOEN

KATHY GOTSHALL

marie RALPH

ALLISON REYNOLDS '01

JOY PATTERSON

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Lisa Walls Costa '82

Intelligence and Chief Scientist, Planet Risk where she provided subject matter expertise to Fortune 500 companies (e.g. Target, Hilton, Starbucks, Cheniere, FedEx) on cyber and enterprise risk management. Prior to that she spent 25 years with the MITRE Corporation running national security and special programs to include leading skunk works for the US Government.

Said Costa, “My time at MCC deeply ingrained the belief that life serves a greater purpose beyond self, offering faith as a steadfast companion through every high and low. Beyond academics, it taught me the importance of understanding those I communicate with, and it broadened my definition of family. It showed me that family isn’t just bound by blood but can be found in the heartfelt connections within communities like MCC and special operations. My 42-year career has been a profound lesson in commitment, belonging, and purpose.”

After graduating MCC in 1982, Costa earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Mathematics and Computer Science from Rollins College in 1986. While attending school, she worked full time. At the age of 18, she became a junior programmer with a government contractor. Costa received an MBA in 1990 and a PhD in Computer Science in 1993.

Dr. Costa has been member of the Defense Science Board on numerous Task Forces and Summer Studies, helping shape the US model for homeland security, special operations’ role in countering terrorism, developing novel approaches to early warning of weapons of mass destruction, and championed the use of publicly available information for great power competition. She has been a member of the National Academies and the Air Force Advisory Board.

growth in both the opportunity of space such as becoming a space faring planet as well as the threat that nation states and even corporations and individuals will be able to exert.

Receiving the Joint Staff Civilian Meritorious Service Medal from USSOCOM Commanding General Richard Clarke.

Dr. Costa shares a laugh with Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, USO Gala.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHt

Maureen Gerrity '07

Maureen Gerrity

, is currently in year six of her Brevard County based interior design business, MG Interiors. Maureen graduated from MCC in 2007, and has since followed her passion for interior design and decorating. Today, we are sitting down with her to get the scoop on how she took her business from a sole proprietorship to a full service design firm comprised of twelve designers, and recently opened a Design Studio & Shoppe in the Eau Gallie Arts District.

From MCC GRad to full time business owner

After graduating MCC, Maureen first pursued a degree from UCF in Hospitality Management, with a focus on event planning. After several years exploring this field, she realized her true passion lied in interior design and working directly with people. At 26, Maureen went back to school for a certification in a completely new field, focusing on the fact that it’s never too late to start over. Fast forward, and after several years as a top performer nationwide for a well known furniture company, Maureen launched her own business focused on improving the look and functionality of her client’s homes.

When asked what advice Maureen would offer to someone considering starting their own business, she replied, “Be prepared to work harder than you ever thought possible. And remember the power of prayer. There will be so many days when the effort does not feel worthwhile, but one day you will look back and remember the days you prayed for the team, clients, and success you have now! Stick with it.”

"Pour into your people, treat every client the way you’d want to be treated, and your business will have no path other than to be successful!"

advice to younger self

Maureen loved her time at MCC, and gushed over how the school prepared her for college and beyond. When asked if she had any advice for her 17 year old self, she replied, “Stop sweating the small stuff! Life is about people and community. How can you use the gifts God has given you to improve the quality of other people’s lives? This is so much more important than what you’ll wear to the school dance, or whether you said the wrong answer in class! You are here for a purpose beyond your

"The best motivation is the desire for a top notch client experience. Be willing to regularly examine where you can improve. Make necessary changes and company culture will soar. A fun place to work is a great blessing!"

God has a plan for all the unknowns you are currently wasting your time

where to find mg interiors

MG Interiors gained notoriety on social media. The team’s full portfolio can be seen on their Instragram page below. Their Design Studio and Shoppe is open to the public every Saturday from 11am-4pm, and is located at 716 Saint Clair Street, Melbourne FL 32935.

MGerrityInteriors MG Interiors MGerrityInteriors.com

CLASS NOTES

1970s

ROBERT GRAMMIG ‘74

Elected Chair and CEO of Holland & Knight LLP in 2024. He is a partner in the firm’s Tampa office and is co-leader of the firm’s Corporate, M&A and Securities Practice Group. He was chair of the Florida Chamber of Commerce from 2017-2019 and currently serves as chair of the Chamber’s International Business Council.

1990s

JENNIFER PAIK-ALONSO '91

Earned an undergraduate degree in psychology from Florida State University and went on to earn an Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology at Floeida International University. She has been employed as a counselor, behavioral interventionist, disabilities coordinator, and evaluator for Head Start children prior to her current work as a licensed School Psychologist. Jennifer is married and has a son who is in high school and a daughter in college. She hopes to retire in 2025 and loves living on the east coast of Florida.

1980s

FRANK MACHADO ’85

Returned to campus to share his journey with our computer science students. From his role as a software quality assurance manager to his passion for baseball umpiring, Frank offered valuable insights and reflected on his time as a student at MCC. Frank serves as the Restaurant Systems Technical Manager at Bloomin' Brands.

TIKI FIOL '94

Joined us as the keynote speaker for our 2024 Catholic Schools Week celebration. Tiki spoke to students, sharing invaluable insights into her inspiring career journey and her impactful work with Teaching Interventions Keeping Individuality, Inc. (T.I.K.I. Inc.

TARA GOMEZ '96

Set to say "I Do" on June 8, 2024! Her matron of honor is bestie Hustler Kelly Clark '96.

2000s

JULIE LABELLE ROSE ‘08

After graduating from Florida State University, Julie began working in Catholic ministry and eventually found her way to the Evangelical Catholic, where both she and her husband work. Together they have four kids and live in Madison, WI. Julie says she has such happy memories from MCC. "My parents met there; all my siblings went there, and I still have lifelong friends from my time there. It was such a strong foundation for both my education and my faith."

CLASS NOTES

CHRISTIAN VARGAS ‘14

PATRICK STEELE ‘12

Engaged to Brooke Evans. Patrick is the Legislative Affairs Director for Health Care Administration.

2020s

BRENDAN LESTRANGE '20

Graduated in December 2023 from Villanova with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He currently works at Nelson Engineering in Merritt Island.

JUSTIN LIERMAN ‘20

Joined the US Navy in February 2021. He was first stationed on the West Coast on the USS Teddy Roosevelt. He finished Corpsman school in December 2023 and now is stationed at NAS Jacksonville as a USN Corpsman in the emergency room.

Currently the company commander of a drill sergeant unit with the U.S. Army Reserves, Vargas spent a nine-month deployment in Africa as an S4 logistics and supply officer. A baseball player since age four, Christian played for MCC during high school and was a four-year starter at Salve Regina University where he also completed his MBA.

NICOLE VELASQUEZ-CARABELLO ‘17

Works at Brevard Vision Care as a technician.

JOEY PATERNOSTER ‘19

Graduated from the University of Florida in December 2023 with a degree in international studies. He is currently working at L3Harris as a materials manager.

EMILIO QUIROZ ‘20

Graduating as a 2d Lt from the US Air Force Academy on May 30, 2024, with a Bachelor of Science in Military & Strategic Studies.Emilio will go on to serve in the USAF as a Combat Rescue Officer (CRO). USAF CROs fulfill the fundamental task of Personnel Recovery (PR) working side by side with USAF and joint forces to carry out one of the most challenging tasks — saving lives and safeguarding the honor of our nation and its citizens. CROs are Battlefield Airmen charged with rescuing personnel, recovering national assets and managing PR activities. After graduation, Emilio will commence an approximately two-year training pipeline based out of Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico.

DOMINIK QUIROZ ‘22

HUNTER STEELE ‘19

Graduated from Florida State University in May 2023. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Communication Technology and is currently employed by NASCAR .

Louisiana State University student-athlete studying kinesiology. Dominik is on the LSU "Dream Team," the all-male practice squad that competes against the Lady Tigers Basketball Team. The Dream Team is tasked with preparing the women's basketball team for some of their toughest opponents. The Lady Tigers were the 2023 NCAA Division 1, Women's Basketball National Champions. Officially NCAA athletes, Head Coach Kim Mulkey praised the Dream Team as, "a big part of what we do," and surprised them with their own National Championship rings.

CLASS NOTES

Weddings

BEN LAIRD ‘14

Married Lauren Fritz on Sept 2, 2023, in Nashville, TN.

In the picture, you'll spot cherished members of our Hustler family, arranged from left to right: Scofield Li ’13, his wife Ayaka, son Kai; Sarah Laird ’17; Parents Tim and Rosemary Laird; Katherine Laird ’21; Anne Laird ’16.

MICHAEL CACCIATORE '07

Married Riza Rodriguez in June 2023 and they now reside in New York. In the photo, you'll recognize some of our Hustler family members, from left to right: Chris Cacciatore '15, his wife Cristina; AJ Cacciatore ’09, his wife Valeria (Greco) '09, son Anthony Jr.; Parents John and Marian Cacciatore; Grandmother Betty Cory; Paul Cacciatore '04, his wife Sara (Reilova) '03, their children Mary and Matthew.

Babies

COREY RUNTE '09

Corey and wife Krista welcomed their third son, Fisher Robert Runte to the world on September 12, 2023. He joins their twin boys, Cade MacKay Runte, and Noah Riley Runte to complete their family of five!

BREANNA '10 & SCOTTY '10 STEELE

Welcome their second baby Juliette Marie Steele on January 2, 2024. Theo (2 yo) is a great big brother and loves his sister.

JENNY LEGGETT SMITH '11

Jenny and her husband Ryan Smith welcomed James Leggett Smith on February 1, 2024.

Rose Lynn Tysenn (nicknamed Rosie). She is a happy baby and her big sister Ruby (3 yo) enjoys any opportunity to wear matching outfits with her little sister.

SLENTZ '11

Clay and his wife Mikayla welcomed twins Maeve Elena and Finley Evelyn

Rose Burgess on April 14,2023.

CLAY

Laura

UPCOMING EVENTS

Class of 2024 Commencement Exercises

May 20: Award Ceremony

May 21: Baccalaureate & Graduation MCC Summer Camps Learn more with QR Code

50-Year Reunion October 4-6

Contact: Mary Pat Laskowski ease356@gmail.com (321) 536-9265 Reunions 1993 & 1994

Contact: Vinnie Taranto vinnetarantojr@gmail.com Open House Sunday, September 22 12:00-1:30 PM

Homecoming Friday, October 4

Alumni Tailgate 6:00 PM MCC Campus

Game

7:00 PM MCC vs. Halifax Academy Hustler Stadium

Alumni Memorial Mass

Sunday, November 4

Sullivan Campus Ministry Center 10:00 AM

2004

1984

MCC Christmas Concert & Art Show

Tuesday, December 10 Hurley Hall 7:00 PM

40-Year Reunion October 11-12

Contact: Debbie Sanders Kelly (407) 310-4011 tdkfinfan@aol.com

Tracey Armstrong (321) 795-1713 Traceyarmstrong0617@gmail.com

20-Year Reunion November 1-3

Contact: Alexis Grzymkowski alexiskgrzymkowski@gmail.com

Matt Sobieski matthew.sobieski@gmail.com

We invite you to reconnect with MCC and your classmates. Return to campus to witness the amazing thing 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 Advancement

& Alumni

Artwork by: Esther Steed '26

HOMECOMING 2023

Hustler fans gathered together for Homecoming on Friday, October 20, 2023. Festivities started before the game in the Alumni Tailgate tent. The football team dominated against Cocoa Beach with a 38-0 win! Our homecoming court gathered for a quick photo before heading into the game.

35TH REUNIONCLASS OF 1988

Members of the class of 1988 gathered for their 35th class reunion on the weekend of October 6, 2023. The group enjoyed spending time together and catching up at local favorites, Ichabods, Bunky's and by the pool at the beachfront Hilton.

40TH REUNIONCLASS OF 1983

Members of the class of 1983 gathered for their 40th class reunion on the weekend of October 6, 2023. A fun time was had by all. Activities included a happy hour at Hotel Melby-downtown Melbourne, golf at Spessard Holland, class reunion dinner, and a brunch on Sunday morning!

ALUMNI EVENTS

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.

The Evolution of the Hustler Bee

Even though MCC's student nickname the "Hustlers" has a somewhat mysterious history, alumni and fans alike are passionate about the name. Legend has it that the name was selected by the school's first president, Fr. Dolan, who was a University of Maryland Terrapin football fan and admired the name of its offensive line - the Hustlers. According to the University of Maryland archives, the Hustlers was the nickname for the offensive specialists under Coach Tom Nugent in 1962. When looking for a name for Brevard's new Catholic high school, Fr. Dolan thought that every team should exhibit hustle, thus the name "Hustlers" was born. The Hustler Bee mascot has changed over the past 62 years. Take a peek at the evolution of the Hustler Bee. 1972

MCC GIVING DAY 2024 BY THE NUMBERS

$62,774

Exceeding our $55,000 goal, 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.

Constituency

Alumni

Alumni Parent

Board Member

Council of Advisors

Current Parent

Former Staff

FINE & PERFORMANCE ARTS

(U)

FINANCIAL AID/SCHOLARSHIPS

$10,000

THE BIG QUESTION

"What is the one book that has stood out to you in all your years of reading and why?"

Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

I always enjoyed the epic storytelling and the complex, intriguing characters as they worked through their hardships and challenges set against the backdrop of the American Civil War. I may just have to dust this one off and immerse myself in its pages once more!

JANET KEANY Current MCC Teacher

The Black Stallion by Walter Farley

This book (and actually the entire series) had a profound impact on my love of horses and my interest in genetics. Furthermore, the virtues of the main characters in the book, such as perseverance, courage, and self-government, positively influenced my character development.

SAMANTHA FOWLER ‘86 Current MCC Teacher

Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

The history, the story telling, the characters and their struggles stood out to me in this book. It puts life into perspective when things get rocky or stressful. Sometimes it’s good to have that reality check.

SCOTT KASCH ‘92

East of Eden by John Steinbeck

I reread this book every five years or so. The themes of generational trauma and free will never get old.

BRANDY BEAN ‘95

The Bright Side Running Club by Josie Lloy

This is the one book that has stood out to me in all of my years of reading because it emphasizes how true friendship and love can make people stronger and help a person grow.

MARY PATERNOSTER ‘23

The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky

This book is an entertaining narrative that explores the depths of guilt, forgiveness, and love.

BRYAN GENT Current MCC Teacher

Man's Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl

This book explores how finding meaning in life can provide survival prosperity in whatever challenges God presents you with.

EVAN JELLETT ‘24 Current MCC Student

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

I first read the book in elementary school and immediately fell in love. It's such a creatively written story about a boy who is set on a mission to restore the Kingdom of Wisdom. Not only did I find it interesting, but also inspiring. A seemingly unordinary boy is thrown into an unforeseen circumstance but carries on, despite him being unsure of what he is capable of.

AMELIE STACY ‘25 Current MCC Student

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

This novel stood out to me because it’s so much more than just a coming-of-age. It’s a sincere, touching book that not only inspires introspection but also reminds you that everyone has their own story.

KENNEDY CARTER ‘26 Current MCC Student

The League of Seven by Alan Gratz

This book stood out to me because it took me on a very fascinating adventure throughout the entire book. Not once was I bored, and it made me use my imagination. I also met Alan Gratz many years ago.

LOGAN MORSE ‘27 Current MCC Student

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

I’m going to cheat and answer the question with three books: The Lord of the Rings trilogy. J.R.R. Tolkien created a complete fantasy world, with its own cultures, languages and mythology. In doing so, he subtly infused his epic with rich Catholic metaphors and morality.

MATTHEW RALLO Current MCC Teacher

FULL COURT PRESS with

Head

BASKETBALL Coach

Get to know Brent Roberts through a rapid-fire Q&A

Sports team I cheered for growing up:

Boston Celtics of the 70's

Best pregame meal:

Too focused on game for pregame meal

Favorite sports movie: Hoosiers

The person I most admire:

Jesus Christ

A talent I’d like to have:

Play the piano

Coaching motto:

Get your players to do things they resist to make them better players and better men.

Proudest achievements:

Raising two daughters

Best life decision:

Marrying my wife Liliana and following my passion for teaching the game

Greatest fear:

Losing because of being outcoached

I’m happiest when:

Coming home to my wife everyday

Best coaching advice I’ve received:

Schedule yourself 15 wins every season.

A season is successful when:

Players return to say "thank you for the opportunity and the time you spent helping them."

AROUND CAMPUS

project ‘Decreasing Atmospheric CO2, DAC Energy Consumption, and Ocean Acidification.’ One accolade hailed from the Stockholm International Water Institute, recognizing innovative work in science and an invitation to compete in World Water Week. Another recognition came from Sotherlund Consulting, commending progressive scientific experimentation, research, and exploration. The third honor was bestowed by ZAL, Inc., acknowledging innovation in science.

MCC CELEBRATES A+ RATING

MCC has proudly earned an A+ rating from the esteemed ranking and review platform, Niche. This distinction is rare, with only 2.5% of schools nationwide receiving such recognition. It's a testament to our dedicated staff, exceptional students, and supportive community.

Visit MCC on Niche

LEGAL TRIUMPH

MCC excelled at the 2024 18th Circuit Mock Trial Competition. All teams participated in two trials at the Viera Courthouse on January 27th. Our defense team faced off against Space Coast High in the morning, while our plaintiff's team took on Lake Brantley in the afternoon, securing wins in both. Colin Bovenkerk ‘25 (defense) and Ciara Morgan ‘25 (plaintiff) were recognized as the top attorneys in their respective trials.

CARSON SCHOLAR HONORS

Sophomore Arman

Sadri is a 2024 Carson Scholar. He was chosen for embodying academic achievement, integrity, and civic and social responsibility. Arman was honored at the Carson Scholars Fund’s Annual West Palm Beach Awards Banquet and earned a $1,000 scholarship, medal, and certificate for his outstanding accomplishments.

EXPLORING THE WORLD OF HEALTHCARE

Students were immersed in the exploration of diverse medical programs at Advent Health University (AHU). From nursing to radiography, the possibilities are vast. We appreciate AHU for making this enriching field trip possible and providing our students with valuable insights and inspiration for their future careers.

AROUND CAMPUS

COLLABORATIVE CONSERVATION

Florida Tech’s Indian River Lagoon Research Institute welcomed Ms. Reese's Marine Science and Chemistry classes for an oyster mat-making workshop. The timing was perfect, with Marine Science finishing a marine invertebrate dissection unit and Chemistry exploring solutions like seawater. The oyster mats were installed as part of an initiative to improve the health of the Indian River Lagoon.

LENTEN OUTREACH

On the early morning of March 10, rain and daylight saving changes didn't deter 75 MCC freshmen from showing up at Holy Name of Jesus ready to make a difference. Together with Rise Against Hunger, they packaged an impressive 40,000 meals!

SERVICE AND CONNECTIONS

MAKING MIRACLES HAPPEN

MCC Mini Dance Marathon raised $14,172.02 for the Children's Miracle Network. We applaud our committed students for their incredible impact on children's health.

During their week in the Dominican Republic, these MCC missionaries focused on teaching English to St. Maximillian Kolbe middle school students. While this was their primary ministry, their mission reached beyond the classroom. They also visited a project aimed at supplying water to remote mountain villages, where they witnessed workers digging trenches by hand for the piping. After each day of teaching, local children gathered at their mission house for games and fellowship until suppertime. They ended each day in prayer, reflecting on their experiences. Despite the long days, they found purpose and joy in serving the community of La Cucarita.

EMBRACING OUR NEW HUSTLERS

We extended a warm reception to the Class of 2028, transfer students, and their families welcoming them as the newest members of our MCC community during a special welcome night. The evening was both enjoyable and educational, and every family left with some Hustler gear to

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Our football team and coaches teamed up for a great cause, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.

volunteer award

Neville Maycock '96

"Coach

Nev brings a few of my most coveted qualities: consistency, hard work, finding a way, not an excuse, accountability and responsibility, taking on challenges, humility and an undeniable love of all things MCC."

Reflection from Coach Tom Dooley:

My dream and my hope for those that attend MCC is that their daily experiences, the personal connections they make, and the environment where dreams were both launched and landed is one that calls them to be a Hustler not just for those four growth-filled years of their life, but for a lifetime. There is power in the green and gold, the concept of a Hustler, hustling, being enthusiastic, having energy, and putting one's heart and mind into one's dreams.

I have been fortunate to have a front-row seat to that scene many times with my baseball and non-baseball players alike. It is what has built MCC into a calling, not a job.

The number of individuals that fit the above description goes deep. I am grateful to our alumni, especially the baseball players who have made me a better person. The one individual that I have the honor of focusing on has demonstrated the gift of giving, serving as a servant leader, providing true friendship, and donating time, talent, and treasure to a calling that is MCC and MCC baseball.

Neville Maycock not only made my dream come true but also took his dreams and built a career as a world-class engineer. More importantly, he has answered the calling of being a lifelong Hustler. A Hustler who has taken the investment that MCC made in him to return that investment to MCC now a thousand times over. Neville has done this above and beyond through his philanthropic gifts to the baseball program, his role in developing responsible and respectful young men, and his dedication to MCC and MCC Baseball.

Coach Nev shows his appreciation for MCC through his actions and how he comes to baseball daily. He is a protector of our image, culture, and environment.

I am so incredibly proud of Coach Nev's accomplishments. I know that most of those are through his hard work and skills. A part of me also cherishes the thought that MCC set the groundwork for him to develop into the success he experiences in his work, coaching, and community. I am even more proud of the friendship that Lesli and I share with him.

Coach Nev is the model for all Hustlers to aspire to live the virtues of inclusivity, generosity, humility, and integrity.

With those qualities, the MCC baseball program has incorporated the Neville Maycock - MCC Baseball Volunteer Award. His giving of everything and not asking for anything since he became a leader in this program in 2010 provides an example for all Husters to aspire to.

Congrats, and God bless to Coach Neville Maycock for his distinguished service to so many Hustler baseball players.

Coach Tom Dooley presents the first MCC Baseball Volunteer Award to Neville Maycock '96.

SPORTS REUNIONS

2013 State Champions REUNION

L to R: John Capra, Jr. '14, Christian Vargas '14, Vinny Capra '14, Alex Carpenter '15, Coach Dooley, Mike Ridyard '16, Austin Nickle '16, Keaton Cederstrom '15, Ian Fox '13, Nick Capra '13, Will Erdman '16, Neville Maycock '96

Spring Game - MCC vs. Scott County

L to R: Duke Maggard '91, Terry Henderson '94, Jobe Galli '93,

Coach Dooley with Brad Wands '94 and sons.

L to R: Tyler Wands, Coach Dooley, Brad Wands '94, Austin Wands

Bryant Espiritusanto '22 & Kevin Espiritusanto '192019 State Champions

Connor Justin '18 & Shea Justin '19 - 2019 State Champion winning pitcher

Caleb Smallwood '19- 2019 State Champion & Christian Smallwood '16 - 2016 Final Four

Phil Piotrowski '08 - Hustler Baseball Hall of Famer & Asst. Coach - 2019 State Champs

Sean McCahill '02 - Hustler Baseball Hall of Famer

Patrick Corley '22 - 2019 State Champion Will Erdman' 16 - 2013 State Champion & 2016 Final Four