LEGACY
YESTERDAY, TODAY, AND FOREVER A TERRIER.
letter from the president
Terrier Nation,
Welcome to the latest edition of the Vandebilt Catholic Paw Print. As we explore the idea of legacy it is easy to see that the legacy of Vandebilt Catholic stretches across generations, and its impact has benefited thousands upon thousands of people. Additionally we must acknowledge two groups of people who have forever changed the course of our history, the Marianites of Holy Cross and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. Their ministry to our school and our broader community are still felt today despite the absence of their physical presence in our classrooms and hallways. Those men and women, and the lay men and women of today who have taken up their mantle, have given the gift of a Catholic education to so many.
So what does it mean to be a Terrier today? Our teachers and coaches work tirelessly to create a sanctuary for young people where they can become who God has called them to be. Our hope is that our current students will join the thousands of alumni who are out in the world making a difference by applying the lessons they learned while at Vandebilt Catholic. That is our legacy, students enter to learn and they exit to serve others. As the world continues to change, our legacy will remain steadfast because our students receive a holistic education that is rooted in religious values, structured through friendly discipline, nurtured by personal attention, and committed to academic excellence.
God Bless,
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Terrier Families,
What a year it has been, Terriers! As we wrap up my first year as principal at Vandebilt Catholic High School, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared. The theme "Living the Legacy: Yesterday, Today, and Forever a Terrier" has truly been embodied in every aspect of our school community, and it resonates with me even more deeply as a proud alumna of 20 years.
At Vandebilt Catholic, we continue to build upon the rich foundation laid by generations of dedicated educators, supportive families, and exceptional alumni. Walking these halls again, this time as your principal, has been a powerful reminder of the values instilled in me two decades ago: faith, family, and excellence. We've seen countless examples of how our students, faculty, and staff upheld the traditions that make Vandebilt Catholic unique, demonstrating the enduring spirit of those who came before us.
This year, we embarked on a new chapter together, and what a chapter it was! We celebrated remarkable academic achievements, deepened our faith through shared experiences, and witnessed incredible growth in our students both inside and outside the classroom. From spirited victories on the fields and courts to inspiring performances on stage, and from impactful service projects to innovative learning initiatives, our community has thrived. It's been a privilege to lead this school, fostering an environment where every student can discover their purpose and shine.
The bond that makes us "Forever a Terrier" remains stronger than ever. It is a testament to the lifelong connections forged within these walls, the shared memories that bring us back, and the unwavering pride in being part of something truly special. I've been so incredibly proud to witness the resilience, dedication, and genuine care that define our Vandebilt Catholic family.
Thank you for an extraordinary first year. Your support, enthusiasm, and commitment to our shared mission have made it an unforgettable experience. I'm already looking forward to what the next year holds as we continue to live our legacy and ensure the spirit of Vandebilt Catholic thrives for generations to come.
Terriers Together,
Mission Statement
To provide students with a holistic education that is rooted in religious values, structured through friendly discipline, nurtured by
and committed to academic
Jeremy Gueldner ...................................... President
Elise LeBoeuf, Ed.D. '05 ............................ Principal
Misty Rosamond ................. Dean of Student Life
Erica Babin '06 ........................ Dean of Academics
consultative Board
Tanner Magee ‘98 Chair
James "J.J." Buquet '84 ............................ Vice-Chair
Walter "Corky" Arnette '94
Jason Dagate '99
Nicholas Hebert '98
Ann Meche '80
Fr. Andre Melancon ’02
Stephanie Prejean '03
Jamie Jo Walker '98
Gary Williams '08
•
Katie Anderson '02 Director of Communications
Katie Blanchard Database Coordinator
Betsy Breerwood Director of Advancement
Mary Ditch '98 Director of Alumni
Photography Credits
Jane Falgout '04, Yearbook Teacher
Romaguera Photography
Vandebilt Catholic Yearbook Staff
president ' s banquet
On Friday, May 30, Vandebilt Catholic High School hosted the fifth annual President’s Banquet in the Kolb Center on campus. Jeremy Gueldner, VCHS President, presented awards for Distinguished Service and Hall of Fame. Mary Downer Ditch '98, VCHS Alumni Director presented the award for Alumna of the Year. Guests included VCHS administration and faculty, Diocesan officials, Brothers of the Sacred Heart leaders, family, friends, supporters, past Alumni of the Year and past Hall of Fame inductees.
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT
MR. MATTHEW BOURGEOIS '99
Matthew Bourgeois, Class of 1999, is a proud alumnus, parent, and active supporter of Vandebilt Catholic High School. He currently serves as Vice President of E3 Electrical, Inc., a role he’s held since 2004. After earning a bachelor’s and MBA from Nicholls State University, Matt returned to Vandebilt Catholic as a dedicated volunteer.
He and his wife, Erin Hamner Bourgeois (‘99), have three children: Sophia (‘27) and twins Gavin and Allison (‘28). Known as the campus “fixer of things,” Matt supports VCHS through the facilities committee, theater program, and numerous behind-the-scenes roles.
A man of faith, Matt serves as a music minister at St. Bernadette Church and shares his musical gifts through Lift 3:16 Ministries and local bands, The Soul Survivors and The Caniacs. His quiet leadership, generosity, and commitment to service make him a true example of the Vandebilt Catholic mission.
AlumnA of the YEAR
MRS. ANN BUCKEL MECHE '80
Ann Buckel Meche, Class of 1980, is a proud alumna, former parent, board member, and lifelong supporter of Vandebilt Catholic High School. Her connection to the school is grounded in faith, tradition, and a deep commitment to Catholic education.
As a student, Ann was active in student council, flags, track, and served on the Spirit and Homecoming Courts. She was also the 1979-80 Basketball Sweetheart. Raised by a single mother who prioritized Catholic education, Ann and her sisters attended Vandebilt Catholic—a legacy she and her husband, Kirk Meche ('80), continued with their sons.
Ann now serves on the Consultative School Board and finance sub-committee. After Hurricane Katrina, she joined the staff briefly to assist with accounting for over 200 displaced students. To Ann, supporting Vandebilt is an honor. She encourages others to get involved, believing that the strength of the school lies in its community and shared commitment to future generations.
2025 hall of fame inductees
MR. EDWARD J. DAIGLE ‘73
Edward "Ed" J. Daigle, Class of 1973, is a lifelong Houma resident whose faith, leadership, and service have deeply impacted Vandebilt Catholic and the greater community. A proud alumnus, Ed and his wife, Cindy Grasso Daigle (‘73), are parents of Bryan (‘97) and Jason (‘99), and grandparents to current and future Vandebilt Catholic students.
As a student-athlete, Ed earned All-State honors in football and baseball. After graduating from Nicholls State on a baseball scholarship, he built a successful career in the insurance industry, eventually becoming President of Louisiana Operations for USI Insurance Services.
Ed has served as President of the Maria Immacolata School Board, Terrier Club, and a VCHS board member of 10 years. A devoted youth and American Legion baseball coach, he led Vandebilt to a state title in 1997. His legacy is one of faith, family, and unwavering commitment to Catholic education and community service.
"We've always heard it's better to give than to receive... I'm not sure what age we find the gratification in service and sacrifice is better than receiving, but Cindy and I are really pleased to help VCHS as best we can."
- Ed Daigle '73
Harold and Mary Haydel exemplify a life of faith, service, and dedication to Catholic education. Harold, a 1962 graduate of St. Francis de Sales High School, was a standout baseball player who pitched in three state championships and later played professionally with the Minnesota Twins. After retiring, he remained involved with Vandebilt baseball, and in 2016, the school named its baseball park Harold Haydel Park in his honor.
Mary, a Terrebonne High graduate and former Vandebilt Catholic English teacher, served on faculty for 18 years. She inspired students in academics, faith, and service—leading National Honor Society, school Masses, talent shows, and outreach projects.
Together, Harold and Mary raised three Vandebilt Catholic graduates and have seven of their grandchildren carrying on their legacy. Mary remains active in parish life at Maria Immacolata. Though Harold has passed, his legacy lives on, and Mary continues their shared mission of service and faith. Vandebilt Catholic proudly honors them as Hall of Fame Inductees.
"We all know that VCHS is what it is today because of the foundation laid by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart... To this day, one of my greatest joys of living in Houma, is running in to former students and catching up on where their life has taken them... Thank you for honoring Harold and me in this special way. We love this school and it means the world to be remembered." - Mary Haydel
MR.
KENNETH WOOD, SR.
Kenneth “Kenny” Wood is a devoted husband, father, and business leader whose life reflects faith, hard work, and service. Born in Welcome, Louisiana, he served in the Louisiana National Guard before training as a machinist at Delgado Community College. In 1974, Kenny founded K&B Machine Works, which grew into K&B Industries—a global leader in advanced manufacturing. Today, he serves as CEO and Chairman of the Board.
Kenny and his wife, Kate, raised four children—all of whom are VCHS alumni—and are proud grandparents to seven Vandebilt Catholic graduates. Deeply committed to Catholic education, Kenny has served on boards for Maria Immaculata, VCHS, and other community institutions, including Fletcher Technical College, Ave Maria University, and Terrebonne General Health Systems Foundation.
A man of deep faith, he is active in Legatus and the Knights of Columbus. Kenny’s legacy continues to inspire through his leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to faith, family, and community.
"This school is more than bricks and classrooms. It is a family rooted in faith and tradition and a commitment to forming young men and women, not only for success but for sainthood." - Kenny Wood, Sr.
THE LATE MR. HAROLD HAYDEL ‘62 & MRS. MARY HAYDEL
Staying connected after high school alumni updates
At Vandebilt Catholic High School, you are always more than just a student— you are a part of a tradition of excellence, faith, and community. Our alumni are the bearers of the legacy we instill in everyone who passes through these halls. We are excited to engage you once more as proud alumni of our school.
We have started connecting with our alumni in different ways: meeting you where you are through Alumni Socials across Louisiana and Texas; and welcoming you home with End Zone events and Alumni Athletic games on campus. We’ve had a blast visiting with our Terrier family and hearing incredible stories of where life has taken you.
This spring, Vandebilt Catholic alumni gathered in Lafayette and Houston for two unforgettable Alumni Socials. Graduates from across the decades— as far back as the 1960s—came together to reconnect, reminisce, and expand their networks. With attendees from St. Francis School, Houma Central Catholic and Vandebilt Catholic, it was a joy to see how many Fighting Terriers now call these cities home. We’re excited to continue the momentum this fall with Alumni Socials planned for New Orleans in October and Baton Rouge in November.
We were also excited to host Alumni Basketball and Alumni Soccer games this past winter. Our annual Alumni Basketball game is hosted
in conjunction with the Jack Becker Classic in December and the Alumni Soccer game is hosted on Senior Night for our varsity boys and girls teams. Both events were extremely well attended, and offered our alumni (and even their parents!) a chance to visit, compete and feel that pride while wearing blue and gold again!
In addition to our Alumni Socials in other cities, we are excited about our event line-up happening on campus! This year we will be hosting Alumni Trivia Night on August 15; Terrier Tailgate on September 12; End Zone Social for Football & Cheer on October 3; Alumni Flag Football Game on October 4; Homecoming festivities the week of October 13-17; End Zone Social for Regiment & Vantastics
on October 24, along with an Alumni Band performance; and Alumni Basketball and Soccer Games coming in December and January.
These events are part of our ongoing effort to engage alumni and strengthen the Terrier network and ensure the legacy lives on! To ensure you receive updates and invitations for events in your area, please take a moment to update your contact information—especially your current mailing address and email—so we can keep in touch.
Please
Alumni Share Wisdom and Experience on College and Career Day
This February, Vandebilt Catholic High School was proud to welcome back 12 distinguished alumni as part of our annual College and Career Day for our student body. These accomplished graduates generously shared their time and talents with our students, offering insight into a wide range of career paths and fields of study.
From the medical field to the legal profession, crime lab analysis to Catholic clergy, and even roles in public service and politics, the diversity of experiences represented by our alumni provided students with a dynamic and engaging learning opportunity. Each presenter spoke about their personal journey—why they chose their career, the education and training it required, and what their day-to-day work entails.
Students were eager to ask questions and connect with our alumni, making the event a true exchange of knowledge and inspiration. It was a meaningful reminder of the strength and reach of our Vandebilt Catholic alumni network and the legacy that they uphold.
We’re deeply grateful to these alumni for their continued commitment to our school community and for helping to guide the next generation of leaders.
"Speaking at career day was such a rewarding experience for me. The students were very engaged and interested. I really felt excited for these wonderful young people and all the amazing things they are going to achieve."
- Dr. Danielle Angeron '97
progress in motion
Latest campus improvements highlight continued momentum
On April 29, the Vandebilt Catholic High School community gathered to celebrate the completion of another exciting phase in campus construction with a Ribbon Cutting and Blessing of the Front Office Complex and SOAR Resource Center.
This phase included a renovated reception area, updated front offices and conference room, a re-imagined chemistry lab, and a completely redesigned SOAR Resource Center—all part of the school’s commitment to academic excellence and student support.
Fr. Andre Melancon ’02 returned to campus to bless the new spaces, and representatives from the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce, our consultative school board and construction partners joined in the ribbon cutting.
for a closer look inside these updated spaces, watch our beyondthebell video series
terriers in the community
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me." - Matthew 25:35-36
At Vandebilt Catholic High School, service is more than a requirement—it’s a way of living out our faith. Inspired by the teachings of Jesus, particularly the call to “love thy neighbor,” we believe in putting our faith into action. Through community service, students engage in meaningful work that not only strengthens our community but also fosters leadership, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the blessings in their own lives.
To fulfill service hour requirements, students must contribute time to non-profit organizations focused on social welfare or charitable causes. This includes agencies that support the poor, sick, disadvantaged, disabled, elderly, children, faith-based initiatives, and environmental efforts. While volunteering with a for-profit business is generally not accepted, exceptions are made when students are participating in the business's outreach or community improvement projects.
Students involved in clubs and sports teams have additional opportunities to serve. Many of these groups engage in community outreach, such as volunteering at Food Banks, helping with Treats at the Track, or leading youth camps. These types of projects often qualify for service hours. However, routine club or team duties—like attending meetings, setting up for events, or field maintenance—do not meet the service hour criteria.
To help students explore a variety of service opportunities, hours must be spread across three main categories, with at least one hour in each: VCH Service Day – Group service organized through the school, such as Treats at the Track, Soup Bowl, or team service projects; VCH Campus Service – Activities that promote pride and ownership in our school, like helping at kiddie camps, Terrier Club events, or alumni functions; Other Community Service – Independent service at approved nonprofit organizations or outreach initiatives beyond school. These categories are designed to broaden students’ perspectives and introduce them to the diverse needs within our community.
Ultimately, service in the community is not just about fulfilling a requirement—it’s about becoming the hands and feet of Christ in a world that deeply needs compassion, generosity, and hope. When students step beyond the classroom and into the lives of others, they learn what it means to live their faith in real, tangible ways. Every hour spent serving is a seed planted—in the community, in others, and in themselves—that helps grow a life rooted in purpose, empathy, and love. At Vandebilt Catholic, we don’t just count hours—we build character, strengthen faith, and change lives.
grads were accepted to: number of grads graduation 130 $7 million in scholarships 58 th
Arkansas State University / Auburn University / Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute / Belhaven University / Belmont University / Centenary College of Louisiana / Christian Brothers University / Dillard University / Eckerd College / Fletcher Technical Community College / Florida Institute of Technology / Huntingdon College / LaSalle Tech / Liberty University / Louisiana Christian University / Louisiana State University / Louisiana Tech University / Loyola University New Orleans / McNeese State University / Millsaps College / Mississippi State University / Nicholls State University / Northwestern State University / Omega Institute of Cosmetology / Southeastern Louisiana University / Texas Christian University / The New School / United States Air Force / United States Army / United States Coast Guard / University of Alabama / University of Louisiana at Lafayette / University of Louisiana Monroe / University of Massachusetts / University of Michigan / University of Mississippi / University of New Orleans / Xavier University of Louisiana
valedictorians
alise malbrough mattie berthieume
"We are never alone. We are always supported by the communities we belong to: our families, friends, and faith. These connections form the foundation that allows us to overcome anything, and with them, we are prepared. Don’t think that any obstacle is too monumental to face or that any path is too rocky to venture. As you continue on the road ahead, always remember this: you are capable."
"In such a crucial time of self-discovery, it is so easy to attach your identity to a hobby, centralizing your existence around the comfortability a category
offers. Titles are temporary; your character, however, - how you make people feel, how you show up, how you care - that endures."
TOP SENIOR AWARDS
BROTHERS OF THE SACRED HEART AWARD
EVAN ADAMS
STEVE KENNEY, JR. OUTSTANDING GRADUATE CATHERINE GUELDNER
BROTHER CARL EVANS AWARD OLIVIA HATCH
BISHOP SCHEXNAYDER AWARD JACK CHESNUT
MARIANITE SISTERS OF THE HOLY CROSS AWARD TESS HOYCHICK
Vandebilt Catholic hosts 32nd elementary literary rally a legacy of academic excellence
Vandebilt Catholic High School was proud to welcome students, teachers, and families from across the region for the 32nd annual Elementary Literary Rally. The event, which has been a tradition on our campus since the late 1980s, returned with great energy this year, hosting 172 students from 17 public and private schools throughout Terrebonne, Lafourche, and East St. Mary Parishes.
The rally gives 5th, 6th, and 7th grade students the opportunity to compete in core academic subjects—Math, Science, Social Studies, and English Language Arts. With a spirit of friendly competition and a deep commitment to academic achievement, the young scholars showcased their hard work, preparation, and passion for learning.
The majority of the traditions of the rally have remained consistent over the decades, including the partnership with Philip Wu of Great Southern Computers. Mr. Wu has donated multiple tablets, chromebooks, computers, laptops, and projectors over the years that are raffled to participating schools attending the literary rally.
Hosting the Literary Rally is an honor for Vandebilt Catholic. It’s more than a competition—it’s a celebration of the bright minds that represent the future of our region. Their dedication is inspiring, and we are proud to offer a space where their achievements can be recognized and encouraged.
For many of us at Vandebilt, the rally holds personal meaning. “It is an honor to welcome these young scholars to our campus. Seeing their enthusiasm for academics and the pride they take in their work is truly rewarding,” shared Erica Babin ‘06, VCHS Dean of Academics. “Their dedication and commitment to their studies deserve to be celebrated. It is a privilege to support and recognize these students on their academic journey."
We are grateful to the students, schools, and families who made this year’s event such a success and look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.
VANDEbilt Catholic EVENTS Mark your Calendar
All dates are subject to change. Please visit www.vandebiltcatholic.org and follow us on FaceBook and Instagram @vandebiltcatholichigh for more event details and updates throughout the year.
Houma I Louisiana I 70360 (985) 876-2551
