VCHS Paw Print - Winter 2022

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Vandebilt Catholic High School's Newsletter - Winter 2022

In 1818 a young diocesan priest named Andre Coindre wrote to the people of Lyon, France to request their support in his newly formed charitable institution. Following the French Revolution thousands of young men had been orphaned, and the lack of societal structures saw these young men housed in prisons with very little care. Father Coindre sought to rescue these young men from their circumstances by creating a school that taught them a trade, silk weaving, and formed them in their faith. Father Coindre would go on to form the Brothers of the Sacred Heart to run this school and others. Some 200 years later, Father Coindre’s vision, writings, and charism still guide our school.

Although we are not quite experiencing the devastation of post-revolutionary France, the last few years have brought our school community many challenges: COVID, the devastating impact of Hurricane Ida, and the loss of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart on our campus. In many ways we find ourselves in a situation similar to Father Coindre when he authored the Prospectus 1818. The next few years will define the future of our school and community. For the first time in generations, we find ourselves without the physical presence of a Brother on our campus, and the knowledge that they will not return to the hallowed hallways of our school. It is now our responsibility to continue their legacy as we stand at this critical juncture in the history of our school, and it will require all of us working together to ensure that Vandebilt Catholic remains vibrant for future generations, to not only educate young people but to form them in their relationship with God.

As we continue to rebuild our campus and our community, let us do so together. “The ultimate purpose of education is to equip young people with the skills they need to participate fully in and contribute to the building of the reign of God” (Partners in Mission). When future generations look back on this time, let them see a faith-filled community that worked together to not only rebuild buildings, but who also worked to build the reign of God. While our past was built on the strong foundation of our relationship with the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, the future of Vandebilt Catholic is in our hands. The Brothers of the Sacred Heart have had such a positive influence on the lives of so many of us, let us pick up their Cross and carry it forward for future generations.

Jeremy Gueldner, President

Principal’s Update

#WeAreVandebilt. This is more than a social media hashtag or even a pep rally cheer. It is what we believe, what we strive for, and what we want to be our legacy. In order for all of us to truly “be” Vandebilt, we have to work together, speak together, and listen together. #TerriersTogether. What does this all mean? It means that we value the voices of our students, families, staff, alumni, and community.

For example, our students have been doing an exceptional job taking on leadership roles and responsibilities that elevate the work of the school. We created a group of senior leaders to plan and guide our “school spirit” through student lead pep rallies, contests, and events. Their work is impressive, well planned, and thoughtful. Students are always coming by to share new ideas, and that is the most exciting part of the day!

Additionally, our staff have volunteered for several committees on our campus that guide the work of our school ensuring that we are meeting our mission as Vandebilt Catholic. Staff serve on the Discipline Committee that reviews data, our handbook policies, and create plans of action based on current trends. Our Mission Positive Committee brings the concerns and ideas of our staff to the table and implements next steps for continuous improvement in our school. The Vision 153 organization and its subcommittees are dedicated to providing the school with education and service that promote Catholic Social Teachings in all areas. That’s just a small sampling of our staff’s collaborative work.

We have also been fortunate to bring in parents, alumni, and community members to provide feedback on other areas of the school like communication, food services, and safety. Individuals from our community have joined parents, teachers, and Consultative Board members to measure growth and plan the future of our school on committees focused on Religious Values, Academic Excellence, Finance, Facilities, and Advancement.

These valued voices are why #wearevandebilt and why we must always be #terrierstogether. Through our FAITH, and by engaging our FAMILY, can we achieve true EXCELLENCE.

Ginny Medina-Hamilton ‘91, Principal

Running Like Never

A Tribute to the Vandebilt Catholic Girls Cross Country and Track Teams

Written By: Katie Anderson ‘02

Both the girls cross country and the girls track and field programs have seen a great deal of success over the past five (or so) years. In November 2022, the girls cross country team won its fifth consecutive state championship, bringing their earnings to six championship titles in seven years. They have also secured numerous regional, district, and parish championships since 2018. The girls track and field team has seen similar success, earning the school’s first ever state championship in 2019, followed by two more consecutive championships in 2021 and 2022. They, too, have recently earned numerous championship titles at the regional, district, and parish levels.

What creates state champion runners?

According to Head Cross Country Coach David Malone, “Hard work and dedication to your craft… Running requires the right mindset. The mental part of running is harder than the physical part.”

Cross country running can be seen as both an individual and team sport since runners compete for individual times and teams by a points-scoring method. Typically, the top five finishers from each team are used for scoring and their finishing places are totaled to determine a winner. The lowest score wins. The success Vandebilt Catholic runners have seen over the years is definitely accredited to the team approach with an amazing group of strong girls who push each other for those top finishes at every race.

Coach Malone, who has dedicated over 20 years at Vandebilt Catholic to both the cross country and track and field programs, said that the 2018 cross country season was his greatest memory. “After winning our first state championship title in 2016, we went to ‘State’ in 2017, faced bad luck and a rough day of running to finish a disappointing third. We came back in 2018 and ‘re-started’

our winning tradition in the worst possible conditions you could ever imagine; 30 degree temperatures and a course of wet and mud. Times were terrible, but our girls battled the elements and were stronger than our opponents. I have never been more proud of my girls,” he said.

Brynn Kelso ‘23 has been a top contributor to the program, earning two individual state championships in 2021 and 2022, as well as the runner-up title in 2019. As a senior this year, Brynn also swept the district and regional championships. She recently committed to running at the University of Southern Mississippi upon graduation. When asked about Brynn’s contributions to the cross country team over the past five years, Coach Malone said, “She lived up to the hype and expectations and led her team to unprecedented glory!” At her recent college signing at school, he added, “She went out every day, eighth through twelfth grade, and did what was asked of her. She knew the only way to restart a winning tradition here at Vandebilt Catholic was to work hard and push hard. From eighth grade on, that’s what she did and she never looked back.”

Brynn is known for her leadership on the cross country team and expressed that her favorite part of being on the team was all the bus rides home from the races and advised future runners at VCHS to enjoy every moment, take advantage of every race regardless of the circumstances, and to trust the process. When asked what lessons she would be bringing to the collegiate level of running, she said, “to remember that God will always be faithful and to keep him at the center of everything I do.”

Ella Chesnut ‘22 was also a huge part of the winning traditions over the past few years, earning the individual state championship title in 2020, as well as an individual district title in 2022. In the spring of 2022, Ella signed with LSU

to take her running career to the collegiate level.

Other Top 10 All-State runners over the past five years include Logan Hamilton ’23, Olivia Hatch ’25, Caroline Lindsay ‘21, Madison Richoux ‘21, Leanna Teuton ’19, and Amelia Viator ‘19.

As for the future female runners of VCHS cross country, Coach Malone said, “We have been on an unprecedented run… five straight state championships and six in seven years. You hope that the success does not end, but reality says that one day the championships will end. My hope for this team is that our success will continue to attract young athletes who are willing and motivated to either continue our tradition of excellence or re-start a new tradition of winning like in 2018.”

As many of the Vandebilt Catholic runners found success in cross country, the girls track and field team, including some of the same talented runners, found the same success on the track. Similar to cross country, track and field events can be seen as both individual and team sports, with a points-scoring method, except earning the most points wins the meet. According to Girls Head Track and Field Coach Jeremey Ezell, who has been a cross country and track and field coach for almost 10 years at Vandebilt Catholic, “I believe having a group of talented and dedicated athletes who see the big picture, and are not afraid to compete, creates state championship athletes.”

Over the past few years, the girls track and field team has utilized their diverse talent across all events and have been able to take strides in winning championships and earning MVP titles. Sprinting, long distance running, jumping and vaulting have been some of the most successful events for the girls.

Coach Ezell said his greatest memory over the past five or six years was watching Molly Thompson ‘18 finish first place in the 300m hurdles back in 2018. He said, “She worked so hard to accomplish that goal. It was awesome to see her hard work pay off.” He added that winning the state championship in 2022 was also at the top of his list. “It was a nailbiter the entire day, and actually coming out on top only 1.5 points ahead of second place felt amazing.”

Emery Prentice ‘22 was a standout track and field athlete participating in multiple events each season including pole vault, long jump, triple jump, and 4X100 relay. She earned her first individual state championship title in 2018 for pole vaulting as an eighth grader. She added two more state championship titles in 2021 and 2022 and set a new record for Class 4A pole vaulting. But Emery didn’t just contribute points to her team with pole vaulting; she knew the value of that team championship win and also competed and earned a state first place finish in triple jump and a runner-up finish in the 4X100 her junior year. During her high school career, she also earned multiple Field MVP titles and was named the Bayou Region Sports Award - Female Athlete of the Year in 2021.

When asked what her favorite track and field memory was, Emery said, “Out of all five years of track, my favorite memory would have to be when we won the state meet my senior year by one point. Every single person on the team put up points and contributed to that win which made it even more special. It was also special to share with the runner up team, because they were very supportive and happy for us to win. We even took pictures with them to celebrate after. Everyone was happy for each other and we brought home another first place, it doesn’t get better than that!”

As for advice to future track and field athletes, Emery suggests that future track and field athletes should show up everyday to work hard, and to have fun with it. “If you put the work in at practice, you will see good results when it matters.”

In the spring of 2022, Emery signed to pole vault at LSU, where she is now preparing for her first track season as a TIGER. She said, “The biggest take-away from being a part of a successful high school track team is that as a team sport, you should be willing

to do anything to contribute for your team in order to make it successful. The victories are always nice, but being on a team where everyone is working their hardest and willing to do anything for all the people around them is something so special.”

When asked about Emery’s contributions to the track and field program at VCHS, Coach Ezell said, “Emery Prentice is a once in a lifetime type of athlete, who goes above and beyond what is asked of her, even if it is competing in an event that is not her main focus. She is the true definition of competitor but also a great teammate that gets everyone better around her. “

Other top performers over the past five years include Ella Chesnut ‘22, Logan Hamilton ‘23, Brynn Kelso ‘23, Caroline Lindsay ‘21, Gracean Schexnayder ‘24, Laura Seibert ‘23, and Amelia Viator ‘19.

The track and field program is growing each year and the hard work and dedication from these young ladies is paying off. Coach Ezell said that he hopes the younger girls can really see what type of impact our girls on the championship teams have had on the sport for our community. He wants them to keep the work ethic up and be competitors just as the upperclassmen have. “I know with dedication, hard work, and having a certain tenacity, this program will continue to get better and top some of our previous teams that we have had in the past.”

Over the past five years, the girls on both the cross country and track and field teams, along with their amazing coaches, have certainly created a legacy within the programs and the community is excited to see what the next five years will bring.

President’s Banquet Honoring 2022 Award Winners

Written By: Katie Anderson ‘02

On Friday, June 3, 2022, Vandebilt Catholic High School hosted the second annual President’s Banquet in the Kolb center on campus. During the evening, Jeremy Gueldner, VCHS President, presented awards for President’s Distinguished Service and Hall of Fame. Doug Hamilton, VCHS Director of Advancement and Alumni presented the award for Alumni of the Year. Guests included VCHS administration and faculty, diocesan officials, Brothers of the Sacred Heart leaders, family, friends, supporters, and past Alumni of the Year and past Hall of Fame inductees.

The first award of the night was a fairly new award that was introduced in 2021. It recognizes an individual who quietly works to help VCHS recognize its mission through volunteer work at the school. The 2022 President’s Distinguished Service Award was presented to Mr. Thomas Boudreaux ‘87.

Mr. Thomas “Tommy” Boudreaux ‘87 was born and raised in Houma, LA. He is the youngest of six children, all of whom attended St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School and Vandebilt Catholic High School.

Tommy and his wife of 30 years, April, have four children: Luke, a 2021 VCHS graduate, Frances, a 2022 VCHS graduate, Paul, who is currently a sophomore at VCHS, and Luci, who is in seventh grade at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School.

In 2005, Tommy founded his current company, Norris and Boudreaux Contractors, LLC, where for over 15 years, they have specialized in the construction and commercial service market.

He currently serves on the advisory committees for both St. Francis de Sales and St. Lawrence Catholic Churches. For the past

4 years, Tommy has served on the facility committee at Vandebilt Catholic, where he most recently helped tremendously in the recovery on campus from Hurricane Ida. With all four of his children involved in both team and individual sports, Tommy also dedicates much of his spare time to assisting in coaching or volunteering for many of these activities.

The second award to be handed out was the 2022 Alumni of the Year, presented to Dr. David ‘78 and Mrs. Laura Fakier ‘78.

Dr. David and Mrs. Laura Lapeyre Fakier, both graduates of the class of 1978, had three children: Edward, Mark, and Rebecca. Their daughter, Rebecca, passed away in 2003 at just eight years old from neuroblastoma. Edward and Mark both attended St. Bernadette Elementary and graduated from Vandebilt Catholic High School in 2009 and 2011. David and Laura have remained active at both St. Bernadette and VCHS for many years.

In 2009, the family made their first mission trip to Haiti during Easter break. The trip was life changing and both David and Laura have been committed to Haiti Mission, Inc. (HMI) and the community that is served near Jeremie, Haiti ever since. They have served for 13 years as co-chairs of the Bec’s Annual Haiti Mission Silent Auction, in honor of their daughter Rebecca and have raised over 1.2 million dollars.

This past June, they led their 27th group to Haiti which included eight VCHS alumni.

There were 3 inductees into the Vandebilt Catholic 2022 Hall of Fame as part of the President’s Banquet that night.

Brother Ronald Hingle, provincial of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart accepted the 2022 Hall of Fame Induction award on behalf of Brother Anthon Miklic.

Brother Anthon (Francis Joseph) Miklic, S.C. was born in Tuscaloosa, AL. He entered the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in Metuchen, NJ in 1935 pronouncing first vows in 1937 and making final profession in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, in 1943.

From his start as an elementary teacher for 8 years in Brooklyn, N.Y., Huntington, N.Y., and the Bronx, N.Y., to a four-year assignment at St. Aloysius in New Orleans, Brother Anthon demanded the same perfection of his students that he himself exhibited. Although he did not get a master’s degree until he was 53 years old, he had a lifelong admiration for learning. Much of his leisure time was spent reading.

One of the happiest periods of Brother Anthon’s life was the seventeen years he worked in Kenya and Uganda. He taught English, which was the most difficult subject to teach in African schools.

Brother Anthon completed his fifty year teaching career at Vandebilt Catholic High School in his “beloved” Houma, Louisiana, from 1973 until he retired in 1988 to Mobile. He died at the age of 78 after some months in a nursing home when his needs became too great for the Brothers in his local community to care for him adequately.

Brother Anthon was a dependable and conscientious brother, totally committed to his community. His religious life is an example for us of one who offered to God all that he had to carry out the Christian education of youth.

Dr. Fritz Rau, along with his 5 sons, accepted the 2022 Hall of Fame Induction award on behalf of his late wife, Mrs. Rhoda Rau.

Mrs. Rhoda Ann Guillot Rau was born in Houma, LA and grew up downtown on Maple Ave. Rhoda married her high school sweetheart, Dr. Fritz Rau ‘71, and they have five boys; Dr. Brian ‘97 (Teri), Dr. Jeremy ‘99 (Lori), Dr. Jeffrey ‘00 (Katelyn), Dr. Nicholas ‘03 (Jenny), and Patrick ‘06 (Monica). All five boys were raised with a Catholic education, all attending St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School and Vandebilt Catholic High School. Rhoda has 15 grandchildren, 12 of which continue to carry on the tradition and currently attend St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School and Vandebilt Catholic.

Rhoda was well known for her involvement in every school sport or activity. She was an avid Vandebilt Catholic fan. Rhoda was a devoted mother and grandmother and was very involved in the community. She participated in the medical auxiliary, carnival, bereavement committees, school functions and class reunions. Her outgoing

personality and involvement in the community resulted in a vast network of friends and acquaintances. Rhoda never met a stranger.

Rhoda passed away after a short battle with cancer in 2019. Her legacy continues through the Rhoda Ann Guillot Rau Foundation which was established in her honor to assist special needs children in a faith based learning program at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School.

The final 2022 Hall of Fame Induction award of the night was presented to Mr. Michael Barker ‘78.

Mr. Michael “Mike” Barker ‘78 was born and raised in Houma, LA. During his 39 years in the automotive industry, Mike has earned countless accolades and served on many boards at the local, state, and national levels. He currently serves on the Louisiana Dealer Services Inc. - Executive Board of Directors, New Orleans Buick/GMC LMATreasurer, Buick GMC National Fixed Operations Board, National Dealer Council,

and the Louisiana Honda Dealers Advertising Association - President.

Along with being a stand-out businessman, Mike has always been dedicated to giving back to the community. Over the years, he has been a Kiwanis Club member, served on the Board of Directors for Houma Chamber of Commerce, and the Morgana Action Coalition. His dedication can also be seen in his sponsorships of local awards and programs, such as the Woman’s Business Alliance Athena Award and as a corporate sponsor for the Terrebonne Parish NAACP for the past 24 years. He is a 1995 graduate of the Leadership Terrebonne Program and has also been an active member of the Krewe of Houmas for 35 years.

Mike has been married to his wife and VCHS 1979 alumna, Angelique, for 38 years. They are the parents of three children: Michael Jr. ‘06 (Jamie), Mitchell ‘07 (Zuna), and Allyson ‘12. They also have 5 grandchildren.

Terrier

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ARTS: ATHLETICS:

For the past five years at Vandebilt Catholic, Laura Hamilton ‘23 has been a member of the choir and performed in every VC Theatre production on campus. She has also been a member of the LA-ACDA All-State Choirs, LMEA All-State Choirs, and District VII Honor Choirs each year and currently serves as president for both the Choir and the Drama Club. When asked how music has impacted her life, Laura said, “It is my biggest passion and having the opportunity to cultivate my talent is the biggest blessing I could ask for! I have had so many opportunities to perform and experience amazing things that I wouldn’t have been able to otherwise.” Laura has qualified and performed at Carnegie Hall twice, once in sixth grade and once as a junior. She added about the experiences, “New York is a beautiful city filled with so much opportunity, and the atmosphere there is so different from our area. Singing with and meeting so many talented people and learning about their experience was my favorite part. I made many friends that I still talk to.”

After high school, Laura plans to continue her music career. “I know it is a passion that I plan to continue developing. I still have auditions to attend, but I plan to study music at the collegiate level. I am looking into Belmont in Nashville or Loyola in New Orleans. I am not sure exactly what I want to do, but I know I’m going in the right direction.”

VCHS Baseball State Champions

The 2022 VCHS baseball team (33-8) earned its first state championship title in 51 years in a 12-2 win over University Lab. This was the twelfth state championship in school history and the team’s first state championship appearance since 1996. When asked what the title meant to him and the team, Head Coach Chad Menard said, “Securing a championship meant that Vandebilt in 2022 was better than all the competition. Bringing home the trophy is a symbol of excellence that is instilled in our school’s culture.”

Going into the 2023 season, Coach Menard and the team are preparing for a new season and “will continue to win each day and each moment.” When asked what they have done to prepare this season after an incredible finish in 2022, he said, “Championships are a culmination of successful days. We strive to win each day so that at the end of the season when it is playoff time, we have put in the work and can trust our preparation. We continue to give our best effort and trust in our Lord that He will guide us.”

ACADEMICS:

Katie Ross

Katie Ross ’23 earned a spot as a Commended Student in the National Merit Scholarship Program, a prestigious honor given to those in the top of their class nationwide with high PSAT scores. She also was named a VCHS Sacred Heart Scholar for her 30+ ACT score, as well as, the 2023 VCHS Student of the Year and a nominee for Teenager of the Year. Katie is co-captain of the VCHS cheer team and Key Club president. When asked how she was able to manage high academic standards and participate in extracurriculars, Katie said, “I place a heavy emphasis on time management. I always make sure I am on top of everything, if not working ahead. It’s not always easy, and sometimes requires some sacrifices, but it is always worth it in the end. I always have very high goals set for myself in both academics and extracurriculars, so reaching them is very rewarding.”

During her high school career, Katie is most proud of her GPA, being named a National Merit Commended Scholar, and earning a 33 on the ACT. As for the future, Katie will be attending the University of South Florida in Tampa and majoring in mechanical engineering in the fall of 2023.

Laura Hamilton

GRADUATES WHO GATHER Terrier

Written by: Doug Hamilton ‘87

“I think the success of any school can be measured by the contribution the alumni make to our national life.”

-John F. Kennedy

As I was searching for a message to help describe the “vibe” that I hear at Alumni socials, this quote from J.F.K. struck me. All who attend are really excited that Vandebilt Catholic is hosting a series of social gatherings for St. Francis, Houma Central Catholic and Vandebilt Catholic alums! I am fascinated by the stories that our graduates tell me and each other. The school often knows of all the successes that the students have while attending Vandebilt, but we don’t always know all of the great successes that our graduates have after high school and into the “school of life.” These socials are a great way to hear about the awesome things that our former students have accomplished in their lives! We think that all who attend have a tremendous amount of fun connecting with alumni across the state and country!

This series began when our current Alumni Association president, Jeff Bordelon ’01, hosted a front yard neighborhood block party in March of 2021 and over 50 alums attended. Since then, the school and the Alumni Association have collaborated to host 10 additional socials in Houma, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans. We are currently planning socials for Lafayette and Houston with plans to be in several other cities! We are proud to have partnered with several alumni-owned venues to host these socials!

Many have commented that among their favorite part of these socials is interacting with graduates who attended school in a different era than they did. Sharing their stories with each other has revealed that no matter what year one has graduated, the Terrier spirit lives in all of us! Graduates from 1970 to 2016 have attended!

Robért Leblanc ‘95 stated, “I love hosting these functions at The Chloe, and am hopeful we can begin to do so at our other restaurants here in New Orleans, as well. It’s great to visit with so many alumni, who have become friends. Also, I am grateful that I can give something back to Vandebilt for all that it has given me in life!”

Many thanks to Angelique Thibodaux Barker ’79, Jeff Bordelon ’01, Chase Lyons ’04, Ann ‘80 and Kirk ‘80 Meche, Allyce Trapp ’12, Robért Leblanc ’95, Sinclair ’84 and J.J. ’84 Buquet, and Lanie Griffin Victory ’02 for being great hosts at these socials!

If you would like to host a social, we would love to partner with you! Please contact Doug Hamilton ’87 at dhamilton@vchterriers.org for more information.

Hurricane Ida: Recovery and Rebuilding

On August 29, 2021, Hurricane Ida made landfall near Port Fourchon, Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane with winds of 150 mph. Our beloved school, city, parish, and bayou region were all devastated by this destructive and intense hurricane. Many of our Vandebilt Catholic families suffered damages to their homes and properties and were without electricity and water for weeks.

Vandebilt Catholic’s campus suffered wind-related damage in all four main buildings on campus. The main entrance and administrative office building, along with the main instructional building, were left with little roofing material and many windows were blown in or suffered debris strikes. The combination of window and roof damage led to those buildings sustaining water damage to the flooring on both the first and second floors.

The upstairs gym and cafeteria building suffered several smaller roof issues that led to water on the court and in the art classrooms. Additionally, the cafeteria area had standing water, and some of the windows were broken or jarred open. The Kolb center suffered a large opening in the roof which led to water damage throughout. Additional structures, including the baseball facility, football fieldhouse, the Brothers Hall, fencing and signage, and other areas on campus also suffered varying degrees of damage.

The clean-up process began soon after the storm with help from both hired professional crews, along with parents, students and faculty who were more than willing to rake leaves and pick up shingles, fallen tree branches and debris.

On September 23, 2021, Vandebilt Catholic students and faculty were able to return to classes through platooning with E.D. White on their campus in Thibodaux. Students were welcomed back home to campus on Monday, November 8, 2021, after working hard in each room and space to create the best possible environment for our students.

A year later, the campus still has concrete floors, some boarded windows, and a few bare walls, but we know this is temporary.

On Monday, October 24, 2022 Vandebilt Catholic hosted an “Information Night” focusing on the Hurricane Ida recovery process. The goal for this evening was to keep the Vandebilt Catholic community informed and engaged. A panel of presenters including representatives from the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, Duplantis Design Group, and our president, Mr. Jeremy Gueldner, discussed an overview of damages sustained during the hurricane, the plan for rebuilding, and the

process moving forward. The panel also addressed a number of questions from the community such as why the recovery was taking so long, and if tuition would increase as a result of the storm.

The night began with a series of photos and a brief review of the damages sustained during the storm presented by Mr. Gueldner. He also described the early recovery efforts centered around remediation and the process involved to get the students back on campus. Mr. Bill Barbera, COO/ CFO of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, then laid out the five step process established by the diocese for recovery. Those steps included: Assessment, Design, Approval, Bid, and Construction. Because of the magnitude of damage diocesan-wide, the diocese has called upon FEMA for assistance and much of this process is driven by FEMA protocols.

The diocese sustained damage to over 300 buildings, with damages totaling over $180 million. Mr. Barbera explained that a claim of this magnitude is slow moving at times and takes a great deal of documentation, but at this point the diocese had completed the “Assessment” portion of the recovery process and that many projects have entered the other four phases of recovery. Mr. Barbera also pointed out that the diocese had secured

significant funding through a bond issue with the state and that, as projects were approved by FEMA, they would immediately go out to bid. This bond issue should ensure that the recovery at Vandebilt Catholic and other diocesan locations should take place much quicker than other school systems and other areas that have relied on FEMA in the past.

Although the night was filled with important information, the most significant development occurred when Mr. Barbera made two announcements. First, the diocese will not collect the $1.1 million dollar deductible from Vandebilt Catholic or other entities in the diocese. Over the last decade the school has worked to accumulate the necessary funds to cover the deductible but now those funds can be saved for the future or used to make needed improvements. Second, Mr. Barbera announced that although the FEMA reimbursement structure would be 90/10 (meaning FEMA would cover 90% of reimbursement), the diocese will cover the remaining 10% on storm recovery projects. These two developments represent significant savings for the school and will play an important role in the storm recovery process.

Next, Mr. Stephen Viguerie from Duplantis Design Group presented the phases of recovery for Vandebilt Catholic. The recovery was divided

into seven phases (see chart) and would have Vandebilt Catholic’s recovery completed as early as January of 2024. Mr. Viguerie did caution that there could be significant delays related to availability of materials, weather, and availability of contractors.

The night ended with a recap of the presentation from Mr. Gueldner. He stated, “While it has been a difficult journey thus far, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. The diocese has been an incredible partner with us on this journey and we are headed in the right direction. I am excited about the opportunity to rebuild our campus in a way that will serve our community for generations to come.”

Where are they Now? Sandra Prejean

Written By: Doug Hamilton ‘87

When one thinks of Chemistry class, one cannot help but think of Mrs. Sandra Prejean, who dedicated three decades to the classroom and students of Vandebilt Catholic. Mrs. Sandra M. Prejean, a retired long-time teacher of Vandebilt Catholic High School, is more than just a teacher. She is a wife, mother, mentor, co-worker, moderator, coordinator, and a friend. “Sandi” Prejean was a fixture at Vandebilt Catholic for over 30 years. Vandebilt Catholic takes great pride in featuring her as one of the many people who have continued the tradition of excellence during her time at Vandebilt.

Mrs. Prejean began her teaching career shortly after receiving her Bachelor of Science Education from Nicholls State University in 1972 as a Physical Science teacher at Oaklawn Jr. High School. After spending two years at Oaklawn, she began teaching Chemistry I and Chemistry II at South Terrebonne High School and did so until 1977. In 1980, she taught Biology at Terrebonne High School and soon found her way to Vandebilt Catholic in the middle of 1985. Little did she know how long of a journey she would have with the Terrier Nation!

Mrs. Prejean was always looking for new and innovative ways to teach chemistry content to her students. She did this by always staying a student and the teaching profession and attended many professional development opportunities such as Louisiana INTECH at Nicholls State University and NSELA NGSS Leadership Institute.

Away from the science department, Mrs. Prejean had several other responsibilities and influences on school life. Sandi was the textbook coordinator for the entire school and worked many hours ensuring that students and teachers had the tools needed to do their best. Those who know where the “Book Room” is on the second floor of VCHS know the room that Sandi spent many years organizing!

When the school hired a non-faculty swim team head coach, Mrs. Prejean was ready to step in and became the swim team’s long-time faculty moderator working closely with Coach Duane Ring for over 10 years to help build one of Louisiana’s best high school swim programs. Mrs. Prejean recalled, “Rebecca Williams ‘00 asked me to come watch a synchronized swimming performance and it was there that I met Duane. (We actually graduated from Riverdale High School in different years.) Attending the state meet was always a highlight of the year. I remember one year driving back after the meet late in the evening; it was raining. The defroster on the shuttle was not working, so we drove home with me sitting on the floor wiping the moisture from the windshield, so Duane could see to drive home. Lots of fun memories of the VCHS swim team!”

For all of Mrs. Prejean’s efforts, she received numerous awards including 1999 Vandebilt Catholic High School Brother Alfred Kolb – Teacher of the Year, 2005 State Finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and

Science Teaching, 2014 Outstanding Educator Award – University of Chicago and Finalist for ACS George Drake Award for High School Chemistry teachers, just to name a few.

Since retiring from VCHS in 2016, Mrs. Prejean has not slowed down! She and her husband Jon are very involved in the Houma Terrebonne Marine Corps League and Auxiliary. The League and Auxilary are actively involved in a significant number of community projects that keep them very busy. Her son Chris ’00 is an active Marine and was one of the Purple Heart Marines who recently received one of “Quilts of Valor” worked on by Mrs. Prejean and her daughters Elisa ’93, Melanie ’95, and Stacy ’98. She and her daughters made 8 quilts just this past year!

After retirement, Mrs. Prejean has been able to watch her family grow. She and Jon have welcomed a new daughter-inlaw, as well as two grandsons. They have six grandchildren that keep them very busy with all their activities.

When talking to Mrs. Prejean, one can easily tell how excited she is about all her travel experiences. She recently traveled with the entire family to Disneyworld and has traveled several times with Bayouland tours. Her bucket list trip was a trip to Alaska on a Land tour and cruise! Long time co-worker Shirley Cunningham ‘68 and she travel to the Gulf Coast during the summers to meet up with a former co-worker and VCHS teacher, Marlene Naquin to spend quality time together.

Mrs. Shirley Cunningham ‘68 enthusiastically comments about Mrs. Prejean, “God truly blessed me the day He brought Sandi into my life. She is a true friend and is one of my main support systems. She can brighten any day with just a text and bring my spirits up. She is always ready to have lunch, talk, listen, or just head out for an adventure. We’ve had a few adventures…with more to come!”

Sandi and Jon are looking forward to a trip to Costa Rica and Key West, as well as traveling to Marine Corp League conventions.

In addition to travel plans, Sandi continues to get together with current VCHS teachers Jane Falgout ’04 and Elaine Beyer, as well as former VCHS teacher and current St. Bernadette principal, Elise LeBoeuf ’05.

Jane Falgout commented, “Sandi was one of my favorite, but rigorous teachers, who

loved to teach. Since working with her, we’ve become good friends and I’m so glad she continues to have me as a friend.”

Elise LeBoeuf ‘05 commented, “Sandi was certainly a memorable and supportive teacher when I was a student in her class, and she has become a dear friend and colleague who continued to support me in my early years of teaching at VCHS.”

Elaine Beyer added, “One of my favorite things about Sandi is her authenticity and being her friend is such a gift. She remains one of my teacher heroes because she knew how to draw the best from her students. She believed in her students and she showed them how to reach the potential she saw in them!”

The students who know “Mrs. Prejean” know her challenging style of teaching and grew to love her for it. She was always looking for simple ways to make chemistry more easily understandable for the students. When asked about some of her favorite classroom activities, she was quick to respond that balloon modeling of molecular geometry for Chem. I and ice cream in a baggie for Chem. II are at the top of her list. And if she thought she was completely done helping students, she quickly found that she still loves tutoring several VCHS students in both Physical Science and Chemistry!

The teachers who spent time with her are also among her fondest memories.

She fondly remembers, “One year Fr. Joey Pilola came to school to take a Spanish

class with Ana Vice and Ginny MedinaHamilton ‘91. The four of us would meet in the lounge and have some wonderful discussions about religion, how to deal with things happening in our lives, and share our good (and not so good) times. This is one of my favorite memories at VCHS.”

In 2021, Sandi was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. “Thankfully, I am now cancer free,” she reports!

“God has been an important part of my life. He has closed doors to what I thought were amazing opportunities for my life while opening new and better doors for me to journey through. I feel that God led me to be, and stay, a classroom teacher. The classroom was always where I felt the most useful and peaceful.”

Retirement seems to be a fitting time for Mrs. Sandi Prejean. (Although one may argue that she is not less busy!)

“Retirement is relaxing and fun. I manage to stay as busy as I want, but also take time to enjoy reading, visits with friends and family, and going on new adventures.”

Well Mrs. Prejean…Sandi…

Thanks for going on the adventure of lifetime at Vandebilt Catholic. Thank you for the time and energy that you spent serving the students and faculty in your care. We are happy to know “where you are now”, and we think that it is a great place for you to be. You deserve it!

THE VCHS ANGELS

(FROM $100,000 AND UP)

The Richard “Dickie” Barker Family

THE BROTHERS OF THE SACRED HEART CIRCLE

(FROM $50,000 TO $99,999)

Cenac Marine Services, LLC Brothers of the Sacred Heart

THE MARIANITE CIRCLE (FROM $25,000 TO,$49,999) Catholic High School

FATHER VANDEBILT SOCIETY (FROM $10,000 TO $24,999)

The John and Clara Brady Family Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Bice

Mr. Bobby ‘78 and Mrs. Virginia Corte ‘78

Meche Investment, LLC Mr. and Mrs. George Robichaux Anonymous Watkins Family Medicine LLC

BROTHER ALFRED SOCIETY (FROM $5,000 TO $9,999)

Norris & Boudreaux Contractors, LLC

Jake’s Uniforms

Bishop Guertin High School

Good Samaritan Ministry

Mr. Mike and Mrs. Heidi Rodrigue ‘93 Mrs. Diane Sontheimer

Many Thanks!

FROM VANDEBILT CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

2021-2022 ANNUAL GIVING REPORT

Vandebilt Catholic High School is blessed to have parents, grandparents, alumni, faculty/staff, friends and partners who believe in a Vandebilt Catholic education. Fundraising is essential to the success of our school and enables tuition to remain at a level that is achievable for our families. The following list includes generous gifts in all areas of giving including the Terrier Fund (the annual fund of VCHS), Terrier Tailgate, #iGiveCatholic, special projects, tuition assistance, athletic and academic donations.

THE PRESIDENT’S CLUB

(FROM $2,500 TO $4,999)

Mr. Michael ‘78 and Mrs. Angelique Barker ‘79

The Gray Foundation

Mr. Steven ‘96 and Mrs. Paige Gaudet

University High Families Morris P. Hebert, Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Morris Hebert Balfour

Coastal Safety Management, LLC Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School

Mr. and Mrs. Clay Nunnally Isidore Newman School Mrs. Marilyn Sonnier

THE PRINCIPAL’S CLUB (FROM $1,000 TO $2,499)

Dr. and Mrs. Ben Adams

Street King Custom Wheels & Tires

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Angelette

Mr. and Mrs. Logan (Hank) Babin

Mr. Damon Baldone ‘82

Mr. Randolph ‘84 and Mrs. Kim Bazet

Dr. and Mrs. Matt Beyer

Bianca Consulting Services, LLC

Mr. Chuck and Mrs. Julia Bourque ‘84

Clearwater Swimming Pools, Inc. of Houma

Mr. Larry ‘79 and Mrs. Leslie Chauvin ‘82

Hi-5 Low Prices, LLC.

Greater Houston Community Foundation

Mr. Todd Denson ‘86

Mr. Mark and Mrs. Kerry Diebold ‘86 Earth Tech Enterprises Inc.

Annunciation Catholic School

Mr. Jim and Mrs. Mary Anne Goodwin ‘64

Oral-Facial Surgery Center

Mrs.

Melissa Hagen

Mr. Harvie ‘64 and Mrs. Susan H. Hamilton

Mr. John and Mrs. Kellie Hebert ‘96

GORCO, Inc.

Allstate - The Hebert Agency

Nick J. Hebert Designs

La Carreta on St. Charles Bluewater Rubber & Gasket Co.

Craig J. Landry - Attorney, LLC.

Eric Landry Agency LLC

Saint Stanislaus

Mr. Christian ‘89 and Mrs. Colette

Lapeyre

The Danos Foundation LeBlanc + Smith Synergy Bank

Mr. Lloyd Lee

Mr. Philip ‘82 and Mrs. Cheryl L. Lyons Classic Business Products New Orleans Pelicans

Mr. Pierre and Ms Alison Olivier ‘83

Mr. and Mrs. Minor Pipes Anonymous

The Prentice Firm, LLC

Mr. Eddie Pullaro ‘61 Acadian Radiologic, L.L.C. Shell Oil Company Foundation

Matching Gifts

Mr. Frank ‘68 and Mrs. Maria Smith ‘68

Mr. Joseph Sonnier ‘85

The Pour House at Peppers Pizzeria

Ms. Jaime Theriot ‘94

South Louisiana Bank

Fr. Willie Todd Foundation

VCHS Football Team

Dr. and Mrs. Patrick Walker

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Welch Mr. and Mrs. H. Welch Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Westerkamp

THE ALMA MATER CLUB (FROM $500 TO $999)

Mount

De Sales Academy

Mr. Joseph and Dr. Danielle Angeron ‘97

Mr. Brett ‘82 and Mrs. Melissa Barker ‘82

Mr. Richard H. Barker III

Bazet Realty and Associates, Inc.

Mr. Jude and Mrs. Jami Bennett ‘00

Mr. Brent J. Benoit ‘07

Mrs. Jennifer Bonvillain

Mr. and Mrs. Derek Bonvillain

BSN Sports Anonymous

Mr. Dean and Mrs. Danielle Cheramie ‘86

Ms. Laurie Conkerton ‘79

Mr. Steve and Mrs. Mary Crisler ‘88

The Doyle Law Firm

Mr. C. Berwick ‘73 and Mrs. Alexis Duval ‘73 Mr. Michael Fakier ‘71

Anonymous Terrebonne General Health System

Mr. and Mrs. Howie Guidry

Mr. Robert ‘90 and Mrs. Kara Hamilton ‘93

Mr. Darren ‘91 and Dr. Sarah Haydel ‘91 VCHS Cheer

Mr. and Mrs. Brian Hebert Houma Credit

Mr. and Mrs. Garett Hohensee

Mr. Charles Kornegay ‘99

Mr. Ed ‘80 and Mrs. Allison LaCour Landry Magee, LLC

Five Guys Burgers & Fries

Ms. Katherine Morgan ‘99

Dr. Greg and Mrs. Renee Pizzolato ‘91

Dr. Donald and Mrs. Jeana Schwab ‘88

The Schwab Law Firm

Dr. and Mrs. Chad Simon

Mr. Guy ‘87 and Dr. Michelle Sonnier

Dr. William ‘82 and Mrs. Nancy St. Martin ‘83

Mr. Tommy ‘83 and Mrs. Kelly Thompson ‘88

VCHS Boys Basketball Team

THE BLUE & GOLD CLUB (FROM $250 TO $499)

Acadia Dermatology

Jamie Baudoin

Dr. David and Mrs. Jonie Baughman ‘93

Mr. John and Mrs. Linda Becker Mrs. Tracee Bennett

The Honorable and Dr. Randall Bethancourt ‘70

Mrs. Elizabeth “Betsy” Breerwood Ms. Kerci Champagne

Mr. and Mrs. Brian Cipolla Anonymous

Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Colwart

Mr. William and Mrs. Mary Catherine Crowley ‘82

Mr. Richard ‘82 and Mrs. Tommie Lynn Dillon ‘84

Mr. James R. Dugan ‘87

Ms. Gretchen Duplantis

Ellendale Country Club

Mr. Brent and Mrs. Debbie Fanguy ‘82

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Flood

HTV 10 - Folse Productions, Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Jon Gonsoulin

Mr. Jerome ‘66 and Mrs. Maria Guidry

Mr. and Mrs. Phil Guilbeau

Mr. Harvie “Doug” Hamilton ‘87 and Mrs. Ginny Medina-Hamilton ‘91

Ms. Glenda Harper

Mrs. Heather Hebert

Mr. David ‘82 and Mrs. Dana Hebert ‘86

Mrs. Theresa ‘79 and Mr. John Hebert

Dr. Stephen and Mrs. Alexis Hellman ‘64

Johnson & Johnson Matching Gifts Program

Ms. Linda Laing

Mr. and Mrs. Donald LeBoeuf

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lefevre

Mr. Dixon and Mrs. Colleen Lewis ‘73

VCHS Cross Country Team

Mr. Linwood and Mrs. Lori Liner

Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Martin

Anonymous

Ms. Carolyn Martinez

Mr. and Mrs. Kenyada Matthews

Mr. Kirk ‘80 and Mrs. Ann Meche ‘80

Mrs. Anne Marie Naquin

Charles A. Page & Sons Insurance Agency

Mr. Christopher and Mrs. Kathy Pellegrin ‘82

Dr. Mark Peters and Dr. Michelle Simon ‘82

Mr. Paul Remson ‘82

VCHS Tennis Team

Mr. John M. Sitton Mr. and Mrs. Jude Smith Mr. and Mrs. Frank Teuton

Kelly Thompson Design, LLC Mrs. Suzanne Troxclair

VC STEM Club

VCHS Alumni Association

VCHS Baseball Team

VCHS Bowling Team

VCHS Boys Soccer

VCHS Golf Team

VCHS Girls Soccer Team

VCHS Softball Team

VCHS Track

Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Viator Mrs. Erin Wagner ‘88

TERRIER FRIENDS

(FROM $1 TO $249)

Mr. and Mrs. Brad Adams Ms. Mary Lynn Adams Dr. and Mrs. Robert Alexander Mr. and Mrs. Richard Alston Mr. and Mrs. Brendon Amedee Mr. Michael Amico II ‘91

Mr. Walter ‘94 and Mrs. Rebecca Arnette ‘94

Mr. and Mrs. Henry Babin

Logan H. Babin, Jr. CRE, FRICS

Ms. Gail Badeaux Babin ‘70 Mrs. Erica Babin ‘06

Ms. Mary Baker

Moe’s Southwest Grill Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Bascle Ms. Liz Landry Bass ‘68

Earl and Marie Baudoin Tri-Parish Coatings & Accessories Mrs. Stacy Bauer Mr. Harold ‘82 and Mrs. Celeste Bauland ‘83 Mr. and Mrs. Tim Becht Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Becker Mr. William Bisland, Jr. ‘95 Mr. and Mrs. William Bisland Mr. and Mrs. Michael Blanchard Mr. Chancey ‘82 and Mrs. Dina Bonvillain

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Bonvillain Mr. and Mrs. Leonce P. Bordelon Mr. Jeffrey Bordelon ‘01 Mr. David and Mrs. Mary Boudreaux ‘79

Ms. Lauren Wilder Bourg ‘85 Mr. John ‘86 and Mrs. Katherine Bourg

Mr. and Mrs. David Bourgeois Ms. Gayle Vedros Bourgeois ‘60 Mr. Vernon and Mrs. Jeanne Bourgeois ‘77

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bourgeois St. Martin and Bourque, LLC

Mr. Terry and Mrs. Robin Braud ‘80 Ms. Yvonne Benoit Breaux

Mr. Roy ‘64 and Mrs. Cheryl Breerwood ‘64

Mr. Daniel and Mrs. Claire Brien ‘61 Deacon James ‘75 and Mrs. Amy Brunet

Mrs. Kellie Brunet ‘92 Mr. and Mrs. Dan Cabirac Mr. Don James ‘92 and Mrs. Gretta Jo Calongne ‘92

Mr. and Mrs. Kip Campbell Mr. and Mrs. George Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Lee Caro Mrs. Kristi Giroir Andras ‘99 Mr. and Mrs. Gary Charles Anonymous Anonymous Mr. Thomas ‘76 and Mrs. Charlene Chauvin

Ms. Kathy Chauvin Mr. Ricky ‘91 and Mrs. Jennifer Chauvin

VCHS Volleyball Team Mr. Brett Chiasson Chick-fil-A Susan L. Clement Anonymous Houma Terrebonne Carnival Club Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Clemons Dr. Jay Clune ‘82 Coca Cola Give King Solutions, Inc. Anonymous Community Coffee Anonymous

Mrs. Denise Cuartas Mrs. Bliss Cunningham Mr. and Mrs. David Cyr Ms. Andrea Dantin ‘11 Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Degruise Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Delatte Mr. Bradley ‘99 and Mrs. Kacey ‘00 DeRoche Mr. and Mrs. Kerry Deroche The Cajun Ninja Donell Donaldson Mr. and Mrs. David Dreslin Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Andy Dufrene Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Duplantis Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Duplantis Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Duplantis Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Dupre Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Lee and Karen Evans

Ms. Natalie Bonner Evans Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Eyerman Mrs. Stacey Fabre Mr. Delton and Mr. Sandra Falcon ‘64

Mr. Jon Ray and Mrs. Jane Falgout ‘04 Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Fanguy Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Duane Farmer NWF Consulting LLC

Mr. Marshall ‘65 and Mrs. Patti Faulk Felger’s Footwear Mr. and Mrs. Benny Fick Mr. and Mrs. Edward Fleniken Lexington Land Development, LLC Mrs. Caroline Franz ‘96 Mr. and Mrs. Rip Galjour Mr. and Mrs. Chris Gaudet Ms. and Mr. Rebacca Gaudet Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Gaudet Mr. and Mrs. Tim Giroir

Mr. and Mrs. Lionel Giroir

Mr. and Mrs. Grant Gravois Ms. Alethia Gregory ‘02

Ms. Erin Gros ‘04

Mr. Craig Guidry

Ms. Mary C. Harvell

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Hebert

Mrs. April Hebert

Mrs. Ania Hebert

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hebert Mrs. and Mr. Cyd Hebert

Todd Hebert Insurance Agency, LLC

Anonymous

Ms. Jennifer Himel

Mr. and Mrs. Leland Hoffmann

Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Hohensee

Mr. Albert K. Holliday Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Al Holliday Ms. Stephanie Hotard ‘00

Mr. Daniel and Mrs. Michelle Hoychick ‘91 Ms. Danae’ Jackson Mrs. Nancy Kelley Mr. and Dr. Lynn Kelley

Mr. Patrick Kennedy Anonymous

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kolwe

Mr. Gary Kraus ‘71

Mr. and Mrs. Eric Kuntz Mrs. Hazie Lablanc

Mrs. Jennifer LaFont

Mr. and Mrs. Greg Landry

Mrs. Jenny Laperouse ‘93

Mr. Edward Lapeyre ‘84

Mr. Jeffrey ‘99 and Mrs. Marion Larke ‘00

Laurie Robichaux Art Mrs. Ashley Le

Ms. Andrea LeBlanc ‘80 Greg LeBlanc Hyundai Mr. Brandyn LeBoeuf ‘97 Mr. and Mrs. Alden LeCompte Anonymous

Craig Ledet Insurance Agency LLC

Mr. and Mrs. Donald Lefevre Mr. Michael and Mrs. Julie LeRay ‘93 Anonymous

Mr. and Mrs. Jose Lichtl

Ms. Sandra Lirette

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Lirette

Mr. and Mrs. Don Loyd

Mr. Patrick ‘67 and Mrs. Rhonda Luke

Ms. Lily Luke

Mr. and Mrs. David Lukinovich Mr. and Mrs. Linard Lyons

Mr. Charles ‘82 and Mrs. Cheryl Lyons

Mrs. and Mr. Wendy MacKay

Dr. and Mrs. Tim Maines

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Malbrough Mr. and Mrs. Kip Manuel

Mr. and Mrs. Francis Marceaux

Denise M. Marceaux ‘82

Ms. Holly Marsh ‘77

Ms. Mia Martin

VCHS Mother’s Club

Mrs. Kelsi Mason

Mrs. Suzanne McCollam Mrs. Carlye McGregor ‘09

TERRIER FRIENDS (cont.)

(FROM $1 TO $249)

Ms. Anne McLaughlin ‘55

Mr. and Mrs. Julio Medina

Rev. Andre’ Melancon ‘02

Anonymous

Ms. Melanie Mitchell ‘69

Mrs. Dana P. Morvant ‘78

Mr. Jeffrey Motichek ‘88

Anonymous

Ms. Mary Ellen Naquin

Mrs. Shaunda Naquin Ms. Amy Nolan ‘91

Anonymous

Mr. and Mrs. Howard Oubre

Mr. and Mrs. Jay Ougel Ms. Katherine M. Ougel

Anonymous

Mr. Jim and Mrs. Stacey Parrott ‘84

Mr. Paul and Mrs. Carol Patriarco ‘82

Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Pellegrin

Pelican Posts by Sign Gypsies

Mr. Gary Phillips

Mr. Robert and Mrs. Mary Picou ‘70

Mr. and Mrs. Lannie Picou

Ms. Kristi Pitre

Ms. Kaylee Pitre

Ms. Holly Pitre ‘82

Mr. and Mrs. Chad Pizzolato

Mr. Palfrey Polk III ‘11

Mr. Charles and Mrs. Rosemary Porche

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Portier

Mr. Derrick ‘92 and Mrs. Melanie Prentice

Mr. Bryan ‘87 and Mrs. Denise Pullaro

Mr. Rip and Mrs. Suzanne Reeves ‘81

Mr. Chris and Mrs. Starr Remont

Mr. Edward “Joey” Reynolds, II ‘85

Mr. Michael Richard Ms. Nevelyn Richard ‘66

Mr. and Mrs. Whitney Richoux

Mr. Kevin ‘85 and Mrs. Melanie Rizzo Ms. Jacinda Roach ‘87

Mr. Keith and Mrs. Laurie Robichaux ‘84

Raising Canes Anonymous

Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Roth

Ms. Mary Boo Rozas ‘82

Mr. Steven and Mrs. Dana Rubadou ‘82

Anonymous

Ms. Sabrina Dos Santos Sarah K Kreations

Mr. and Mrs. Albert Schexnaydre

Mr. John and Mrs. Shanna Seebode

Mr. Colin and Mrs. Renee Seibert ‘92 Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Serigne Dr. Katherine Sevier ‘99 Mr. Lee ‘82 and Mrs. Susan Shaffer Mrs. Vicki Toups Sheaffer ‘81 Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Siddon Mr. and Mrs. Richard Simon Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Smith Mr. and Mrs. Myron Smith Anonymous

Mr. and Mrs. Kent Sontheimer Starr Fit

Mr. Jerry and Mrs. Myra Starr ‘64 Ms. Angelle Stevens

Ms. Kathleen Tarantino

Ms. Helen Terrebonne

The Blackbaud Giving Fund

Chevron Matching Funds

The Blackbaud Giving Fund

Marathon Petroleum Company Ms. Carol Theriot Ms. Ruth Theriot ‘52

Ms. Shonna Theriot Mr. Chris Thibodaux

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Thibodeaux

Ms. Bonnie B. Thibodeaux

Mr. and Mrs. Herman Thibodeaux Mr. and Mrs. Hillary Thibodeaux Mr. Travis and Mrs. Lisa Thibodaux Mr. Michael ‘92 and Mrs. Katie Thompson

Mr. and Mrs. Henry Toepfer Ms. Jennifer Walker Toomey Mr. and Mrs. Edward Trahan Ms. Cherie Tregre ‘98 Ms. Ruby Tripp

Deacon Jeffrey ‘80 and Mrs. Lisa Trumps

Ms. Julie Duplantis-Allen-Tullier Vandebilt Catholic Regiment VCHS Art Club

VCHS Hope Program

VCHS Swim Team VCHS Vantastics

Mrs. Sue Daigle Vestal ‘74 Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Vicknair Ms. Lanie Victory ‘02 Anonymous

Mrs. Mary Kay Waguespack ‘70 Ms. Poppy Waguespack-Talbot ‘42 Anonymous

Mr. Bill ‘74 and Mrs. Liz Watkins ‘74

Mr. Philip Watson

Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Weaver

Little Flower Catholic School Mr. and Mrs. Louis Wilcox

Mrs. Libby Wilder Mr. Peyton Willard

Ms. Juana F. Woodard

Ms. Alicia T. Wooley ‘82 Anonymous

This report gratefully recognizes the many alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty/staff, friends and partners who have contributed their money, time and effort to Vandebilt Catholic High School in 2021-2022. Vandebilt Catholic High School appreciates the commitment to our mission by those who made contributions and donated their time and talents to our school. It is nearly impossible to put together a list of every donor without inadvertently making an error or omission. This list includes all gifts reported from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022. We apologize if your name has been omitted from this list. Please accept our apologies and notify us at 985-580-1868 or bbreerwood@vchterriers.org to be included in a future publication.

If you are interested in continuing your support, please find the enclosed envelope for the Terrier Fund (the annual fund of VCHS) or donate online at vandebiltcatholic.org by clicking “Donate Now.”

Hey Terrier Nation!

What a great year to be a Terrier! It has been an incredible journey to connect with so many St. Francis, Houma Central Catholic and Vandebilt Catholic alumni! From reunions to tournaments, spotlights to socials, Masses to meetings, I have noticed a renewed pride in the Blue and Gold! Our plan is to constantly do more with those who have graduated from our schools!

In August, our Alumni Association hosted the first ever Alumni Pedro tournament in the Kolb center. It was a fun time for all, and the championship game came down to a “bidder goes out” bid! It was exciting!

In October, we hosted the class of 1973 at our annual Golden Reunion and Luncheon during Homecoming week. It was nostalgic for many of the class of 1973 to be back on campus and participating alongside our Homecoming court during the Mass, pep rally, parade, football game, and dance! Our pregame tailgate in front of the field house was enjoyed by many and we are grateful for 1973 graduates Sally Walker Mcdevitt and Ed Daigle (First Maid and Duke from the Homecoming Court of 1973) for joining us to crown this year’s Homecoming King and Queen! We were also excited to have 1982 graduates, Brett and Melissa Barker as our Homecoming Parade Grand Marshals!

Our Alumni socials continue to be a big hit for those who attend! They are a great way to have food, fun, and fellowship while telling many stories of your time at Vandebilt!

We are constantly looking for ways to engage our former students, and one of the best ways that you can help us engage with you is to communicate your updated contact information with us. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, vandebiltcatholicconnect.com, and vandebiltcatholic.org. Make sure to connect and follow us!

I want to also take this time to encourage you to nominate a deserving alum for consideration as our Alum of the Year as well as our weekly alumni spotlights! We will announce the Alum of the Year at our annual President’s banquet in June 2023.

Please reach out to us to get connected!

Terriers Forever!

Doug Hamilton

Doug Hamilton VCHS ‘87

Vandebilt Catholic High School 209 South Hollywood Rd. Houma, LA 70360 985-876-2551