Paw Print - Summer 2024 by VandebiltCatholic

letter from the president

Dear Vandebilt Catholic Community,

So often when talking to people in the community they tell me how lucky I am to have summers “off”. Most people do not realize that there is a significant amount of work that is completed each summer in preparation for the following school year. This summer is certainly no exception!

I know we have all been “patiently” waiting for our repair work to begin, and I am happy to share that construction is underway! On Monday, May 27th, work began on the new Dickie Barker Student Union. Crews have made great progress, and we are confident that they will be finished by the end of September. This new student union is going to be a great addition to our campus, and I know our community is going to love it.

Additionally, we recently had two bid openings - our interior repairs, and a complete HVAC replacement for Buildings A & B. Our interior repairs were awarded to Freetown Builders, and the HVAC replacement was awarded to Volute. Those two projects will be completed in conjunction with one another and will begin sometime in August. While the repair package is being funded by a combination of FEMA and insurance proceeds, there are a number of areas that are being improved (including the Resource Center, Digital Media Center, Library, Counseling Center, and Upstairs Restrooms). These improvements are being funded by the school and private donations. Our HVAC replacement is being funded by a loan (approximately $3.5 million) from the Diocese that the school will pay back over time. While that is a significant loan amount, this is a project that is long overdue.

Last, but certainly not least, I am excited to share with all of you that we are close to sending another project out to bid - a complete replacement of our exterior doors and windows. Much of our Hurricane Ida damage was a result of failed windows and doors that allowed wind-blown rain to enter our buildings. Our plan is to upgrade our doors and windows to be impact resistant, which should harden our campus against future storms. We believe that this project will be just over a $1 million dollars, and we are working with donors and the Diocese to secure funding.

When I was a kid, Heinz Ketchup used the slogan, “The best things come to those who wait”, and it certainly appears that will be true for our school community. While we have all been tapping the side of the ketchup bottle trying to make the repairs get here sooner, it all happens in God’s time, not ours. The next 12-15 months will be filled with construction, and the inconvenience it so often brings, but it will also be filled with progress. As we enter into this exciting time of repair and improvement, let us do so with a sense of pride in what we have endured and hope for what we can accomplish together.

God Bless,

Jeremy Gueldner Dr. Elise LeBoeuf

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Terrier Families,

It is with great excitement and a deep sense of honor that I write this message as your new principal. As I step into this role, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve such an esteemed community of learners, educators, and families, each of whom plays a pivotal role in shaping the future. Each and every one of you has unique contributions and perspectives that are essential to our collective success. As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to join me in embracing the spirit of connection, collaboration, and possibility. Together, let us create a future where every member of our school community thrives and where the possibilities for growth and achievement are limitless.

Terriers Together,

‘05

Mission Statement

administration

Jeremy Gueldner ....................................President

Elise LeBoeuf, Ed.D. '05 ..........................Principal

Erica Babin '06 ......................Dean of Student Life

Julie Pellegrin .........................Dean of Academics

Kevin Ramirez Chair

Tanner Magee ‘98 Vice-Chair Fr. Andre Melancon ’02.............................Chaplain

Walter “Corky” Arnette ’94

James “J.J.” Buquet ‘84

Jason Dagate ‘99

Ann Meche ‘80

Gary Williams ‘08

2023-2024 consultative Board advancement team

Katie Anderson '02 Director of Communications

Katie Blanchard Database Coordinator

Betsy Breerwood Director of Major Events and Annual Giving

Doug Hamilton '87 Director of

and

photography credits

Jane Falgout '04, Yearbook

Faith Chapel

School Safety

Perimeter Fence

Lighting

Cameras

Improved Traffic Flow

Academics

Resource Center

Academic Excellence Center

Digital Media Center

Social/Emotional

Counseling Center

Athletics

Fieldhouse

Covered Practice

Facility with Turf

Bleachers

Track

Softball Field

Richard “Dickie” Barker Student Union

building for our future master plan

We are excited to update our Vandebilt Catholic community on the progress of our Master Plan. We began construction on our Barker Student Union at the end of May, and it is set to be complete this Fall!

The completion of the Boys’ Basketball Locker Room, Second Floor Gym, and the STEM lab are accomplishments as part of our long-term vision for future campus development. Our Master Plan provides facility improvements in every area of our campus, impacting our students in a holistic way. We will continue to engage our community and communicate progress, and share ways for you to get involved as it develops. Renderings by

Richard “Dickie” Barker Student Union

under construction

exploring the depths of innovation vchs stem course offerings

VCHS takes pride in offering a robust and diverse curriculum designed to prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow. The school's commitment to fostering a rich academic environment is evident in its extensive course offerings, particularly in the STEM fields. Among these, the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) program and the specialized drone technology courses stand out as exemplars of VCHS's dedication to hands-on, experiential learning.

Project Lead The Way Course (PLTW):

This introduction to Engineering course invites students to immerse themselves in the engineering design process. Students work both individually and in teams to solve real-world problems using 3-D modeling software and meticulously documenting their progress in engineering notebooks. PLTW field trips include visits with the local Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District to tour local levees, floodgates and locks, as well as an annual trip to Bayouland YMCA pool to test buoyancy on hand-constructed boats made of cardboard and duct tape, utilizing Archimedes’ Principle. This course not only cultivates technical skills but also fosters critical thinking and teamwork, essential for future engineers.

Drone Technologies Courses:

For students interested in cutting-edge technology, VCHS offers two Drone Technologies courses, one for certification preparation, as well as an advanced course for further specialized instruction. The Drone Technologies FAA Certification Preparation Course provides a comprehensive overview of drone technology, from the basics of flight mechanics to the practical applications of drones in various industries. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the FAA Remote Pilot test, ensuring they have the knowledge and operational skills needed to become licensed drone pilots. Hands-on training and classroom flight time are key components, making this an engaging and practical learning experience. The Advanced Drone Technologies class delves deeper into the technical and operational aspects of drone technology, preparing students for more complex applications and challenges in the field.

Basic Machine Course:

In addition to these courses, VCHS offers a Basic Machine course for upperclassmen, focusing on foundational skills in manufacturing, engineering, and quality control. This comprehensive program includes interactive exercises and online testing, culminating in a Level I NIMS Certification. Students earn badges for each successfully completed module.

With the support of a generous donation from local machine shop, K+B Machine, all three of these classes are held in the newly renovated STEM Lab on campus. The space houses 3D printers, a desktop milling machine, and a laser cutter. Students have access to the latest technology that allows them the opportunity for hands-on, experiential learning with real world applications.

the future is bright for students at vchs

At VCHS, the future is bright for students eager to explore and excel in science and technology. Through these innovative courses, students are well-prepared to lead and innovate in an ever-evolving world.

Vandebilt Catholic has a rich tradition of producing some of the best engineers in our area. That spark begins before college, and I feel like we finally have the curriculum, space, and technology needed to nurture our students’ curiosities. Engineering is hands-on and creative. This program gives them a space to become innovative problem solvers. By working with our state-of-theart machines and AutoCAD program our students have a considerable advantage before moving to the next level.

Mary Catherine Gueldner '98, PLTW Teacher and STEM Club Moderator

president ' s banquet

On Friday, May 31, 2024 Vandebilt Catholic High School hosted the fourth annual President’s Banquet in the Kolb Center on campus. Jeremy Gueldner, VCHS president, presented awards for Distinguished Service and Hall of Fame. Doug Hamilton '87, 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, past Alumni of the Year and past Hall of Fame inductees.

Alumnus

of the year

Dr. Brian Parker '98

Dr. Brian Parker was voted Homecoming King and Most Intelligent his senior year as well as being a member of the first VCHS Quiz Bowl team to win a state championship.

At Thibodaux Regional Health System, Brian currently specializes in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine. Since August 2015, he has held the position of Medical Director of the Critical Care Unit and, since November 2021, the Medical Director of Pulmonary Medicine.

Outside of work, Brian and his wife, Jamie, enjoy spending time with their two children, Jude and Elle. Brian enjoys attending concerts and festivals, and is an avid Saints fan.

distinguished service award

recipient

Mr. Kevin Ramirez

Kevin Ramirez dedicated over three decades of service to VCHS in multiple roles including coach, teacher, and board member for both the Terrier Club and Consultative School Board. He has been instrumental in promoting Vandebilt Catholic as the local choice for private Catholic education and actively engaging the alumni community in supporting their alma mater. He has worked over 20 class retreats at VCHS, served two years volunteering with the Men in Christ program on campus, and is also an active parishioner at both St. Anthony of Padua Church and St. Francis de Sales Cathedral.

Kevin is currently the Director of Recruiting at GIS: Grand Isle Shipyard and in his free time enjoys playing tennis and golf, grilling and spending time with his wife, Laura ‘84 and two daughters Ellie ‘19 and Claire ‘24.

2024 hall of fame inductees

Hall of Fame Inductees are former faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and/or community members who through their outstanding achievements in their spiritual, professional and civic lives, have brought honor to themselves and Vandebilt Catholic, and whose contributions have had a broad and positive impact on others.

Mrs. Glenny Lee Castagnos Buquet ‘54

Glenny Lee Buquet, is a graduate of St. Francis de Sales Girls School and parent of three Vandebilt Catholic graduates and grandparent of 4 VCHS graduates. She and her husband, Jimmy, were both community volunteers, established several endowments for education and contributed to multiple renovations around the VCHS campus. Over the past 4 decades, Glenny Lee has been appointed to numerous boards, commissions, and task forces involved with education reform, including serving 20 years as the member from the Third District to the Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.

She has also found time to support programs such as the American Cancer Society, New Orleans Hope Lodge, and is a graduate of Leadership Louisiana. She was a charter member and first president of the Junior Auxiliary of Houma and also serves as a CASA case volunteer.

Fr. Jay Baker '79

Fr. Jay Baker currently serves the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux as Chancellor and has been the Pastor at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral for the past 6 years. Earning his Master’s Degree in Divinity from Notre Dame Seminary, as well as a J.C.L (a licentiate) from Canada’s Pontifical University, Fr. Jay has made a significant impact on the Diocese over the years and has served in many roles such as Vocations Director, Assistant to our Apostolic Administrator, and Vicar General. He has led many pilgrimages to Rome, as well as the Holy Land.

Since ordination, each bishop of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux has assigned Fr. Jay to parishes with schools, where he has been an extraordinary example of a servant leader to the students. He gives credit to being educated by the Marianites of Holy Cross, Brothers of the Sacred Heart and many faithful lay women and men who taught in the likeness of Jesus to the priest he is today.

our faculty and staff live our serviam values

mission trip

As part of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart Coindre Leadership Program, Kayla Vicknair, VCHS Athletic Director and Jeremy Gueldner, VCHS President spent a week living and working at the St. Anne Navajo Mission in Klagetoh, Arizona, alongside the Brothers. While there, they helped the local community by working on people’s houses, delivering supplies, cutting grass and cleaning a local community center. They were also able to learn about the history and culture of the Navajo by participating in celebrations and ceremonies during their time in Klagetoh.

VCHS Faculty Day of Service

On Holy Thursday each year, our VCHS faculty and staff gather for a lenten day of service to give back to the community. This year with the guidance of Fr. Antonio (Speedy) Farrguia, Administrator of Holy Family in Dulac and St. Eloi in Theriot and his team, the group was able to divide and conquer some much needed projects at both churches, which are still, 4 years later, in the recovery phases from Hurricane Ida.

The staff was able to check a few things off the “To-Do” Lists at both churches including weeding the cemeteries and church flower beds, cutting the grass, cleaning the church pews, painting offices, and even repairing a garage door. Showing servant hearts, the VCHS faculty and staff truly enjoy giving back to the community through these projects each year.

congratulations class of 2024!

"As a class, we have had unmeasurable support from the teachers, staff, parents, family, and the Holy Spirit. THANK YOU. beacuse of your support, we are here today.

From starting as 'little baby 8th graders' to now being the graduating class of 2024, the differences between 'us then' and 'us now' are undeniable. Most of our changes have come from the many lessons we’ve learned. Though we will continue to have trials and impactful mentors – the challenge is to continue to grow in the right direction. So, acknowledge who you are, a child of God. Accept Him as your Father and walk in the light.

I cannot wait to see what He has in store for each one of you. Congratulations, class of 2024. Thank you."

grads were accepted to: number of grads graduation 136

$6.2 million in scholarships

American University / Auburn University / Baton Rouge Community College / Baylor University / Belhaven University

Delta State University / Dillard University / Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University / Fletcher Technical Community College Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University / Holmes Community College / Louisiana Christian University

Louisiana State University / Louisiana State University Alexandria / Louisiana Tech University / Loyola University New Orleans / Marshall University / McNeese State University / Millsaps College / Mississippi College / Mississippi State University / Nicholls State University / Northwestern State University / Rock Hurst University / Southeastern Louisiana University / Southwest Mississippi Community College / Spring Hill College / St. Andrew's University / The Catholic University of America / Tulane University / University of Alabama / University of Arkansas / University of Dayton University of Gloucestershire / University of Louisiana at Lafayette / University of Louisiana at Monroe / University of Mississippi / University of South Alabama

Legacy in Action:

celebrating 25 years of Family Tradition at Graduation

In this special Alumni Spotlight, we celebrate the enduring legacy of our graduates. Each year for the Baccalaureate Mass, we invite twenty-five year graduates with children graduating to be recognized and participate in the celebration. This year we were honored to have three graduates from the Class of 1999 with children graduating with the Class of 2024. As we reflect on the past 25 years, these images remind us of the rich history and bright future of our alumni network. Congratulations to all our graduates—then and now—for being a part of this incredible journey.