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The Magazine of Xaverian Brothers High School |
STRENGTHENING MINDS EMPOWERING CREATIVITY
Jack Leary ’19, star of Xaverian’s spring musical
Summer 2019
Xaverian
THE MAGAZINE OF XAVERIAN BROTHERS HIGH SCHOOL
Xaverian Magazine 800 Clapboardtree Street Westwood, MA 02090 781-326-6392 www.xbhs.com ADMINISTRATION
Headmaster Brother Daniel E. Skala, C.F.X., Ph.D. Principal Jacob A. Conca ’94, Ph.D. Assistant Principals Stephen W. Dacey ’95, M.Ed. Teaching and Learning Joseph D. McGilvray, M.Ed. Francis Xavier Division Michael Nicholson, M.Ed. Student Life Christopher J. Vasta ’00, M.Ed. Academics, Grades 9-12 OFFICE FOR SCHOOL ADVANCEMENT Assistant Headmaster for Advancement Lawrence M. Furey, P ’21 lfurey@xbhs.com Director of Alumni Charles Carmone ’85, P ’16 ccarmone@xbhs.com Advancement Services Managers Pamela J. Fothergill, P ’07 pfothergill@xbhs.com Linda M. Calabrese, P ’20 lcalabrese@xbhs.com Administrative Assistant and Copy Editor Donna M. O’Connor, P ’01 doconnor@xbhs.com Director of the Fund for Xaverian and Leadership Giving James J. Scholl ’03 jscholl@xbhs.com Director of Stewardship and Advancement Services Mary M. Taylor mtaylor@xbhs.com OFFICE OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS Director of Strategic Communications Ann E. Alsfeld aalsfeld@xbhs.com Assistant to the Director of Strategic Communications Kathryn E. Hickey khickey@xbhs.com Graphic Design Margaret Galeano at www.gr8pg.com © 2019 Xaverian Brothers High School. All rights reserved.
From the Headmaster Dear Friends of Xaverian,
I
f you have walked the halls of Xaverian lately, you know that in 2019, this is a very different place than it was when we opened our doors in 1963. The pastel square bathroom tiles that covered the walls (so popular in their day!) are being replaced with sleek, maple wood panels. What was once the Brothers’ residence is now a counseling wing. New science laboratories, classrooms, and a 32,500 squarefoot wellness center have been added. Land that didn’t belong to us 20 years ago now provides ball fields and extra parking. Typing class has given way to “Programming in Python.” The Glee Club is now called the X-Men, and the Stamp Club has been replaced with rock climbing (page 16). While the mission and the values of Xaverian remain unchanged, we continue to upgrade, adapt, and proactively address the demands of modern teaching and learning. Our latest endeavor is called Strengthening Minds, Empowering Creativity. This $500,000 strategic initiative aims to build upon a recent expansion of our fine arts program (page 8) and our robust science and computer science curriculum. In this Xaverian Magazine, you can read more about our plans for a new creativity lab to provide more real-world experience with cutting-edge technology, much needed upgrades to theater lighting and sound, and the added support of our many performing and fine arts programs (page 2). If you would like to join us to help this initiative come to fruition, I invite you to make a gift using the enclosed envelope. Together, we can encourage creative thinking, problem solving, risk taking, and resiliency through engaging lessons and hands-on experiences. Also in this edition of Xaverian Magazine, follow the rise of Matt Klentak ’98, General Manager for the Philadelphia Phillies (page 23), read about four Xaverian seniors brought together by a song (page 4), see all the highlights from winter and spring sports (page 14), learn about the legacy of Brendan Burke ’06 (page 24), and meet Dr. Carolyn Herman, Xaverian’s new Director of Staff Formation (page 22). As we proudly blaze new paths in curriculum, technology, and programming, it is our foundation as a Xaverian Brothers-sponsored, Catholic school that grounds us. With God’s grace and your support, we continue in our mission to prepare young men to become servant leaders, sharing their gifts with a world in need. May God bless you and your family.
Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X. Headmaster
STRENGTHENING MINDS EMPOWERING CREATIVITY A
Xaverian education is based on the values of the Xaverian Brothers—humility, trust, simplicity, compassion, and zeal—while providing an exceptional education for young men. Grounded in this mission is the understanding that what comprises an exceptional education for young men must evolve with the times and with technology, while holding fast to these core Xaverian values. In today’s world, that means embracing creativity and providing hands-on learning opportunities that utilize cuttingedge technology to encourage critical thinking, risk taking, collaboration, and resiliency. With the new Strengthening Minds, Empowering Creativity initiative, Xaverian continues to provide exactly these types of learning opportunities through enhanced curriculum, additional technology, and new community partnerships. Funding for the initiative is geared toward three primary areas: theater sound and lighting technology upgrades, fine arts curriculum development and implementation, and the launch of a new creativity lab to complement the existing modern science and computer labs and generate additional active-learning opportunities across all disciplines. With this renewed focus, we seek to cultivate an appreciation for the fine and performing arts from grades 7-12 while providing the next generation of leaders with confidence and competence in science, technology, engineering, and math.
THEATRICAL LIGHTING AND SOUND SYSTEM UPGRADE:
Our students love experiential learning. Look no further than the theater on any given afternoon, and you will find young men tinkering with lights, running cables, and testing microphones. These students are preparing sound and lighting for Xaverian’s next theatrical production. It’s a big task. Their creativity in lighting design and technical knowledge in sound engineering set the mood for the show. But what happens when the technology available doesn’t meet the need? Suddenly the bounds of our students’ imagination hits its limit. In order to equip our students for the best hands-on experience in our theater program, Xaverian aims to upgrade the current lighting system from analog to a digital, LED system, and replace the outdated sound system. Additionally, the stationary lighting trusses will be replaced with mechanical trusses that can be lowered to the ground. For the first time, this would allow our students the opportunity to hang the lights themselves. Not only do these enhancements provide the best experiential learning, but they will literally light up many future productions while enhancing the audio and visual experience for our actors, stage hands, and audiences.
This new initiative will help us take the curriculum to the next level. We will challenge our students to reach farther so that they can find out what they’re truly capable of when they are given the finest tools available paired with the encouragement to try. We want them to take the foundational knowledge that they acquire and go one step further to apply that knowledge. When they do, their learning is authentic, it’s innovative, and it’s lasting. Steve Dacey ’95, Assistant Principal for Teaching and Learning
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The young men of Xaverian are showing us new talents every day. We have to provide the opportunities to match them. They are the artists of tomorrow. That’s why we must constantly ask ourselves, what more can we do for them today? Julianne O’Connor, Fine Arts Teacher and Theater Director
ARTS CURRICULUM:
We’re investing in the arts, and it’s not just for show. We want to put an instrument in every young man’s hands, and inspire undiscovered passion for design, photography, cartooning, architecture, and more. The arts are not only a confidence builder for a young man, but art can strengthen every facet of a Xaverian education. Participation in the arts bolsters academic performance and can help students grow socially and emotionally, think more critically, and be more innovative and collaborative. Art helps to build a wide range of higher-order thinking skills, the skills required for effective leadership. At Xaverian, every student participates in arts education as they learn that an appreciation for the arts is an important component of being strong young men. But we know that an introduction isn’t enough...we want to give our students ample opportunities to explore all aspects of the arts as they strive to maximize their unique potential. The work has already begun. We have launched new courses in the fine and performing arts and celebrated the founding of our first-ever Pep Band. This spring brought the inauguration of a new instrumental music program, pairing Xaverian students with some of the top musicians teaching in the Boston area; and next year, the grade 8 instrument program kicks off, providing every student with the opportunity to try his hand at an instrument. Support of the Strengthening Minds, Empowering Creativity initiative helps cover the costs associated with these contemporary programs, as well as the necessary equipment.
CREATIVITY LAB:
Whether it’s called a creativity lab, a makerspace, or an innovation room, one thing is for sure; Xaverian aims to provide an inspiring location on campus that is filled with the best technology to benefit students of all ages. Augmented Reality, 3D printers, green screens, and robotics, the options are endless as a cohort of teachers representing a variety of disciplines work together with Xaverian’s Principal, Dr. Jacob Conca ’94, to uncover best practices and imagine the possibilities for this new space on campus. Their goal? To create a space where all Xaverian students can test their imagination and their skill. Whether it’s touring the chambers of the heart in virtual reality or building instruments with laser cutters and 3D printers, this space will be a resource for all grades and its applications will span across the curriculum. It’s time to give our students the tools to think outside the box, so they can get hands-on, real-world experience with equipment they’ll likely encounter in future careers. Funds raised through the Strengthening Minds, Empowering Creativity initiative will be used to make the possibilities into a reality.
Summer 2019
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A SONG CALLED
F
BROKEN
our students enter Xaverian their freshman year from four different towns. They have never met. They have different interests. Different life experiences. And different goals. But this year, their senior year, these four students come together to release their first joint venture—a music video for a song called “Broken.” Two of them write and record the music; two film and edit the video. It’s 100% student driven, powered entirely by the artistic collaboration of these four Xaverian young men. What follows is their story of how they got here...the mutual respect, and the dollars and cents.
TEAGAN BLUM AND JUSTIN MILLER: THE FILMMAKERS “We’ve been best friends since freshman year,” Justin explains of Teagan. Teagan retorts, “No, you hated me freshman year.” Justin fires back, “I still hate you.” They laugh, as only best friends can.
KYRON BROWN AND DIMITRI CHARLOT: THE SINGERS “Ky heard I could sing and asked about it, so I sent him a recording,” Dimitri says. He’s the more outspoken of this pair, a subtle irony since it was Kyron who first caught the attention of his classmates for his music. “I wrote this song, ‘Roll with Me,’ freshman year,” Ky says, explaining why he wanted to see if Dimitri could really sing. “But he didn’t say ‘yes’ to recording it with me until junior year.” Ky didn’t take “no” for an answer, and the two started quietly working on music together while talk of Ky’s solo musical presence continued to percolate among his classmates. For both, it was clear that making music was a priority.
THEIR BACKGROUNDS Dimitri says he’s been singing since he was three. Growing up in the Baptist tradition, he was familiar with the Church’s music and, he says, “singing all the time.” But it was a fateful day at St. Agatha’s School that kicked off his more formal training. He got called in for an audition with St. Paul’s Choir School and was one of six selected for a second audition. He was the only one offered a spot in the coveted music education program. That’s when his real training began. For Kyron, it came later. In eighth grade, he started writing his own poetry, and that quickly
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To watch their music video for Broken, filmed at the Blue Hills Reservation in February, go to Xaverian’s website at www.xbhs.com/music-collaboration.
turned into writing songs. He dove in with the unwavering support of his mother and began lining up studio time and releasing his own music on the web under the artist name, “K Loyal.” That’s how his classmates at Xaverian heard him, including Teagan and Justin. Justin came to Xaverian with a bit of film background already in place. He had made short films during middle school and already had some equipment. Teagan picked up his video fascination in junior year, after both he and Justin were cut from the lacrosse team and wanted to fill their time. By senior year, he was fully immersed— making highlight reels of Xaverian athletics and devouring content wherever he could find inspiration. The two continued to perfect their skills, teaching themselves how best to shoot, edit, apply effects, and more.
THE FOUR CONNECT “Once Teagan and I heard Ky freshman year, we knew he was a good rapper,” Justin explains of their history. He turns to Ky and says, apologetically, “But you didn’t have your sound yet.” “I’m still working on my sound,” Ky responds. It was Teagan who first floated the idea of making a music video. For him, it’s all about earning his video chops...it doesn’t matter the subject. For Justin, it’s less about the video and more about sharing as yet undiscovered talent with the world. Watching from the sidelines as Ky continued to grow musically, they say they knew by sophomore year that they wanted to film a video for him. Meanwhile, Kyron and Dimitri continued to quietly collaborate. The summer heading into senior year, they released a recording of their original song, “Broken.” “We listened to that all summer,” says Justin. “It’s so good.” Teagan chuckles. “Actually, we’re like half your views by the way,” he admits. They finally decided it was time to approach Kyron and Dimitri about a video, and the conversation among the four began senior year. It came down to finances. In order to get recording studio time, Ky counted on birthday money and the generosity of his mother. “I sold my sneakers for this last session,” Dimitri adds. “I got $250 for them.” So when they had the choice between paying
someone from the outside $700 for a video for “Broken,” or working with Teagan and Justin for free, they went with free.
THE FUTURE All four agree that even with the array of software and techniques they have taught themselves during high school, there’s room to grow. “Ky and I noticed, we’re all learning at the same time here,” says Dimitri of their first filming days. “We’re learning while they’re learning.” And then they dissolve into brotherly ribbing about Kyron changing his hair between filming days and messing with the continuity, rendering issues that caused the quality of the video to be less than ideal, Dimitri’s inability to climb a hill, and Justin’s poor navigation as Teagan wandered blind
Pictured here are Justin Miller ’19, Kyron Brown ’19, Dimitri Charlot ’19, and Teagan Blum ’19 through Blue Hills, the camera blocking his view of the path. “That whole first video was just one step to our first real video,” admits Justin. But Teagan jumps in: “It was more than one step - it was a staircase.” As they prepare for college, (Ky to study music at the University of Loyola in New Orleans, Teagan to study film at Elon, Justin to Chapman University with a dream to work in artist representation, and Dimitri to UMass Amherst with the intention of focusing on both music and business), they talk about the support they received from Xaverian along the way. “Our grade is close,” Teagan explains. “When
people start getting interested in something and want to take it to the next level, our classmates are supportive, and so are the teachers.” “I’m walking by Nicholson’s office one day,” Dimitri chimes in (and it should be noted that “Nicholson” is Mr. Michael Nicholson, Assistant Principal of Student Life). “And I hear my voice singing from in his office, and so I do a little moonwalk backwards to see what’s up. Then Nicholson calls me in and starts congratulating me. And then after that, Vasta (that’s Mr. Chris Vasta ’00, Assistant Principal for Academics) pulled me out of class and talked to me about it. Even Dr. Conca talked to me about it.” He’s
smiling. You can see the pride. “This room is full of a lot of talent and potential,” Kyron quietly points out. “In a few years, I can see us going far.” A grin breaks across Teagan’s face. “It would be cool if every summer we came back and made a music video,” he says. And with that, they depart. It’s their last day on campus at Xaverian, and this interview is their last thing to do before heading out for Christian Senior Service assignments. Their joking and laughter can be heard as they make their way down the hall...four unlikely friends, brought together by a song called “Broken.”
Summer 2019
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Seniors in Intro to Engineering test the strength of their structures
BUILDING BRIDGES
WITH NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY By Hunter Broadbent ’19 and Joshua Mould ’19, Communications Corps
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his fall, Xaverian seniors traveled into Boston for the day to participate in a seminar on engineering at Northeastern University, an experience that was bookended this spring when grade 7 students had their opportunity to attend. On November 30, Mr. Jim McPhillips ’86 brought seniors from his AP Physics and Intro to Engineering classes to Northeastern’s STEM Center for Education. “The focus of the day was exposing high school students to multiple engineering disciplines by means of interactive labs and activities,” Mr. McPhillips explained. “I really enjoyed seeing the school, for one,” said participant Justin Sayah ’19. “My favorite part, though, was the central nervous system presentation. A programmer 6
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and a biology professor explained and discussed how stem cells divide and how tumorous cells can envelop your whole system. I found that to be very cool.” The second part of the day included a presentation on batteries. A Northeastern professor explained the composition of batteries and then cut them open so the students could explore the components inside. In another section, seniors took part in a challenge to see if they could build a small structure that could withstand the stress produced by an earthquake simulator. Later in the school year, seniors in Intro to Engineering expanded on their learning on this subject back at Xaverian, building bridges to withstand hundreds of pounds of pressure. They tested their models
in the Domenic Lalli Strength and Conditioning Center. “It is so important that we provide these hands-on, realworld learning opportunities for our students, both in science and throughout the curriculum,” said Dr. Jacob Conca ’94, Principal. “Our Class of 2024 enjoyed a similar experience this spring with their own day of learning at Northeastern.” Under the direction of Francis Xavier Division science teacher, Mr. Sean Gunning ’11, all grade 7 students spent a day at Northeastern on April 9 during which they, too, learned about engineering and were able to test their hands at realworld applications. Students rotated through three main stations: an overfishing simulation, snap circuits,
and a shake table. With overfishing, modern political, biological, and economic connections were drawn to show just how tough it can be to juggle the many aspects of feeding everybody. For the snap circuits, students overviewed energy flow and energy sources (a unit they study in the seventh grade curriculum), as well as circuit types, before getting a chance to build their own circuits to light a bulb, spin a fan, or play a speaker. Finally, the shake table was the highlight of the day. Students not only built a structure to test its strength against earthquake forces, but also were given the chance to stand on the table themselves to see if they could withstand the shake test...a perfectly fun ending to a seventh grade day of learning.
Above: Holden Keebaugh ’19 checking on one of the ant colonies in Bio-Chemistry Below: Jack Gianino ’24, James Fetter ’24, and Michael Farah ’24 at Northeastern’s STEM center for education
The Junk Food Effect Each year in Mr. Ryan Howard’s senior Bio-Chemistry class, students are given the opportunity to spend their final quarter conducting long-term scientific research on a subject of their choosing. This allows them the chance to try out a lab of their own creation—one that isn’t already mapped out for them in a book—leaving room for trial and error, critical thinking, and problem solving. In previous years, students have attempted to convert frying oil to biodiesel and have tested the impact of juuling (vaping) on cell growth. This year’s seniors had a different subject in mind—junk food. A group of 15 seniors worked together to test the effect of an unhealthy diet (particularly one representing bad choices in Xaverian’s own cafeteria, like the ever-popular fried chicken and french fries combo), on the productivity of ant colonies. “Programming like this really represents our end goal for the science department at Xaverian,” said Dr. Bryan Dunn, chair of the science department. We don’t want students to simply memorize information. We’re teaching them how to think creatively to solve problems, as well as how to be flexible and make adjustments if needed. These are important skills, not just for scientific research but for life.” Summer 2019
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Mr. Greg Daigle, music teacher, working with Kyle Fishbaugh ’19
EXPANDING THE
ARTS
By Hunter Broadbent ’19, Communications Corps
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averian students with an interest in the fine arts now have an expanded array of electives to choose from, as exciting new courses are integrated into the curriculum. Ranging from Accelerated to Honors to Advanced Placement, there is something for everyone who has passion for music, aspirations for the stage, or a desire to express themselves through visual art. “We have an incredibly talented group of teachers in the fine arts department with a lot of expertise,” said Mr. Stephen Dacey ’95, the chair of the department and Xaverian’s Assistant Principal for Teaching and Learning.
“Next year, we are offering some very interesting classes that have not been available to students previously.” This docket of classes came together thanks to a survey of Xaverian students in fall 2018, with over 700 Hawks offering their input on how to shape the future of the fine arts department. “One of our goals is to give students a continuous arts experience from grades 7-12,” said Mr. Dacey. “This will likely be most evident through our instrumental program, in which all seventh graders will have the opportunity to select an instrument - including vocals - and be able to study it over the course of their six years here. Ensembles such as the Jazz
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE NEW CLASSES
The following new classes are being offered in addition to the existing courses: • Beginning Guitar and Piano • Audio Production • Music Business and Entrepreneurship • History of Popular Music • Music Theory (Advanced Placement) • Writing for the Stage and Screen • Choreography for the Stage • Advanced Acting (Honors) • Conceptualizing Theater (Honors) • 3D Sculpture
Band, Chorus, X-Men, and the Pep Band will continue to grow through this program.” For students who are even more musically oriented, a new lineup of private lessons will be offered for a broad array of instruments. In conjunction with Needham Music, students can participate in a rent-toown instrument program. Lessons are conveniently available on campus and range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending upon instructor and student availability. Prominent local musicians who teach at prestigious universities and work with some of music’s finest groups will be coming
to Xaverian to conduct the lessons. “These lessons are all about growing, and there are endless areas for growth in music,” Mr. Dacey added. “Whether a student is fostering a skill or passion that he wasn’t aware of, or is already a seasoned musician, we have a place for him to succeed.” Mr. Dacey offered this advice to students who are “on the fence” about signing up for the new fine arts classes or the instrumental program: “From a personal standpoint, the arts are a part of our human nature. In order to be a full person, you need to have exposure to and appreciation
for visual arts, music, theater, singing, and dance. I am so proud to see this portrayed all around Xaverian, whether it be our great artwork, our winter concert, our spring musical, or any of the other standout showcases for fine arts. From a practical standpoint, developing and educating students on the fine arts is key. All learning is, in a way, interconnected. The skills a student learns in the fine arts, such as creative and critical thinking, perspective, and problem solving, apply throughout the curriculum and one’s life.”
NEW LESSONS
The following lessons are available: • Brass (Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, and French Horn) • Piano and Pipe Organ • Voice (Pop, Musical Theater, Classical, Opera, Liturgical, and Cantor) • Guitar, Bass, and Composition • Woodwinds (Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, and Oboe) • Drums and Percussion
Summer 2019
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CURTAINS UP!
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his April, the fine arts department presented
schools worked for months to stage this production
the hilarious Tony Award-winning musical,
and were rewarded with standing ovations at each
Curtains, to appreciative audiences. The madcap,
performance.
whodunnit murder mystery, directed by Ms.
A special thank you to Mike McMath ’69, who
Julianne O’Connor, kept audiences on the edge of
generously volunteered his time to photograph the
their seat with rousing bouts of laughter and applause.
production. Check out Xaverian’s Flickr page (flickr.
Nearly 40 students from Xaverian and area all-girls
com/XBHS) to see all of the great pictures!
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TALENT
Worthy of the Museum of Modern Art By Hunter Broadbent ’19, Communications Corps During the fall art show at Xaverian, exceptional work from students in grades 7-12 was showcased throughout the school in various forms. Compelling paintings, sculptures, and drawings graced the hallways and the cafeteria, with students happy to show off their efforts to friends, family, and visitors to the school. One such visitor was struck by a certain piece that he came across. Cliff, a resident of Benchmark Senior Living, came to see the Xaverian art display with a group of residents as part of a community partnership between the school and the residence. While here, he was particularly struck by a framed drawing penned by Ian Hunt ’19. “It should be in the Museum of Modern Art!,” he proclaimed. Ian was so honored with Cliff ’s words that he made an unexpected gesture to show his appreciation. Together with Mrs. Paula Duddy, Ian’s art teacher at Xaverian, he made a trip across Clapboardtree Street over to Benchmark and presented the piece as a gift to his new friend. Cliff was taken aback by Ian’s generosity and was very excited to receive the work of art. The piece Ian donated is just one work in an exceptional portfolio he has assembled during his years at Xaverian. “Ian has developed a portfolio that demonstrates his versatility as an artist in the use of a wide variety of media,” said Mrs. Duddy. “His artwork is colorful, inventive, and technically strong. The artistic skills Ian has gained at Xaverian will serve him well next year as he pursues an art major at UMass Amherst.”
Ian Hunt ’19 presents his gift to Cliff, a resident at Benchmark Senior Living Summer 2019
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CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF
O
n Saturday, May 18, Xaverian Brothers High School celebrated the Commencement of the Class of 2019. Diplomas were conferred to the 185 graduates by Headmaster Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X., Ph.D. and Principal Jacob Conca ’94, Ph.D. The Class of 2019 hails from 55 cities and towns and comprise the 53rd graduating class since Xaverian opened its doors in Westwood in 1963. Collectively, these young men were accepted to 178 different colleges and universities. They have committed to continue their academic careers at top institutions such as Brown, Georgetown, Syracuse, BC, the United States Naval Academy, Wake Forest, and Rensselaer. Connor Roukey earned the top spot in the class as valedictorian. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society, and has been very active in Xaverian’s campus ministry program. Connor has served as Xaverian’s sacristan, as well as Master of Ceremonies for Bishop Dooher. He has been a dedicated peer minister and participated in the annual Pilgrimage to Italy. Connor will attend Boston College. In the valedictory address, Connor spoke of the defining moments he and his classmates shared at Xaverian over their four years of high school, before he encouraged them toward their future and the call to service: Ralph Waldo Emerson once famously said, What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us. There is no doubt that a part of Xaverian lies within each member of the Class of 2019…My message for the future is simple: find your own Xaverian...the people, places, or occupations that you immeasurably love, and who will immeasurably love you back. Mark Pioch is the Class of 2019 salutatorian. He is a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and the French Honor Society. He is a four-year cross country runner, a four-year member of the board and card games club, and a regular participant in the campus ministry program. Mark recently completed his Christian Senior Service at SparHawk Academy in Millis. Mark will attend the Catholic University of America. In the salutatorian address, Mark reminded his classmates that as they go forward, they are never alone: First of all, our parents pour their hearts and souls into our bodily and spiritual upbringing... We also had the faculty and teachers patiently dealing with our daily shenanigans, and they 12
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2019
Lucas Ferraro, Class of 2019 Xaverian Award Winner played a pivotal part in getting us where we are now. And when we undoubtedly had doubts, that’s why friendship was invented. Here at Xaverian, friendships go beyond the superficial sharing of memes on social media and base themselves in time dedicated to each other, works of charity, and meaningful conversations...Faithful friends are a sturdy shelter; whoever finds one finds a treasure. Thank you all for being the sturdiest of shelters.
Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X., Headmaster of Xaverian Brothers High School, introduced the recipient of the most prestigious senior award, the Xaverian Award. This award is voted on by students, faculty, and staff, but not announced until the graduation ceremony. Of the Class of 2019 recipient, Brother Dan said: This year’s recipient is a young man who gives of himself unselfishly, he is a doer, not a talker. He is a true leader, someone to look up to, who is grounded, genuine, unpretentious, and comfortable in his own skin…This young man has been extraordinarily influential in all aspects of school life. He has excelled in everything from academics to athletics, from campus ministry to student government. His leadership and hard work have made a big difference to all of us...For his friendship, and his stunning embodiment of Theodore Ryken’s vision of a band of brothers who mutually help, encourage, and edify one another, it is an honor to present the 2019 Xaverian Award to Lucas Ferraro. The Xaverian Award offers recognition for the unique contributions of a graduating senior and speaks to the mission and core values of a Xaverian Brothers education. Lucas Ferraro earned honor roll all four years at Xaverian and was named the varsity football team’s “Unsung Hero,” a 2018 Catholic Conference Football AllStar, and Offensive Lineman of the Year. He also served all four years in student council, leading his class as president this year. Additionally, he was actively involved in the campus ministry program. Lucas will attend Brown University.
Athletic Commitments Jack Mariano
Cross Country, Indoor, and Outdoor Track, United States Naval Academy
Dylan Raimondi
Cross Country, Indoor, and Outdoor Track, Babson College
Zach Carney
Football, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Michael Davis
Soccer, La Salle University
Trevor Gleason
Soccer, Indoor, and Outdoor Track, Kenyon College
Louis Quintero
Soccer, Wentworth Institute of Technology
Marckenley Lima
Basketball, Wheaton College
Cooper DeVeau
Patrick Mogan
Lucas Ferraro
Matt Talarico
Football, Brown University Football, Brown University
Mike Masse
Football, Trinity College
JoJo Marinella
Football, Randolph Macon College
Basketball, Hamilton College Hockey, Stonehill College
Chris Ducko
Baseball, University of Massachusetts Boston
Jack Whorf
Baseball, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Trevor Carroll
Lacrosse, Stevens Institute of Technology
Zachary Conant
Lacrosse, Clark University
Dylan Gardner
Lacrosse, University of Michigan
Sam Jean
Lacrosse, Wesleyan University
CJ Mello
Lacrosse, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Jack Whalen
Lacrosse, Skidmore College
College Acceptances American University Anna Maria College Assumption College Ave Maria University Babson College Bard College Barry University Becker College Belmont University Bentley University Boston College Boston University Bridgewater State University Brown University Bryant University Butler University Case Western Reserve University Castleton University Champlain College Chapman University Clark University Clarkson University Clemson University Coastal Carolina University Colby-Sawyer College College of Charleston College of the Holy Cross Curry College Denison University DePaul University DePauw University Drexel University Duquesne University Elon University Emerson College Emmanuel College Endicott College Fairfield University Florida Southern College Fordham University Framingham State University
Franciscan University of Steubenville Franklin Pierce University Furman University Georgetown University Gordon College Hamilton College - NY Hartwick College High Point University Hobart and William Smith Colleges Hofstra University Howard University Illinois Institute of Technology Indiana University at Bloomington Ithaca College James Madison University John Carroll University Johns Hopkins University Johnson & Wales University Keene State College Kenyon College La Salle University Lasell College Lehigh University Louisiana State University Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Maryland Loyola University New Orleans Marist College Marquette University Massachusetts Maritime Academy McMaster University MCPHS - Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences Merrimack College Miami University, Oxford Michigan State University New York Institute of Technology Northeastern University Ohio Wesleyan University Pennsylvania State University Plymouth State University Providence College Purdue University Quinnipiac University Ramapo College of New Jersey
Randolph-Macon College Regis College Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rivier University Rochester Institute of Technology Roger Williams University Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Rowan University Sacred Heart University Saint Anselm College Saint Joseph’s College-ME Saint Joseph’s University Saint Michael’s College Salve Regina University Seton Hall University Siena College Skidmore College Southern Connecticut State University Southern Methodist University Southern New Hampshire University Southern Virginia University Springfield College St. Bonaventure University St. John’s University St. Lawrence University Stetson University Stevens Institute of Technology Stonehill College Suffolk University Syracuse University Temple University The Catholic University of America The Ohio State University The University of Alabama The University of Scranton The University of Tampa Trinity College Trinity University Tulane University Union College (New York) United States Military Academy Army United States Naval Academy Universidad Pũblica de Navarra
L to r, John Meawad, CJ Mello, and Costa Menadue University of British Columbia University of Central Florida University of Colorado at Boulder University of Connecticut University of Dallas University of Dayton University of Delaware University of Guelph University of Hartford University of Kansas University of Maine University of Maryland, College Park University of Massachusetts Dartmouth University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Massachusetts Boston University of Massachusetts Lowell University of Miami University of Michigan University of Nevada, Reno University of New England University of New Hampshire at Durham University of New Haven University of North Carolina at Wilmington University of Notre Dame
University of Pittsburgh University of Rhode Island University of Richmond University of Rochester University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of South Carolina University of South Florida, Tampa University of Southern Maine University of Tennessee, Knoxville University of the Sciences in Philadelphia University of Vermont University of Wisconsin, Madison Villanova University Wagner College Wake Forest University Wentworth Institute of Technology Wesleyan University Western University Westfield State University Wheaton College Wilfrid Laurier University Worcester Polytechnic Institute Worcester State University Xavier University
2019 LEGACY CLASS First two rows (l to r): James E. Johnsen ’19, son of Karl E. Johnsen ’87; Constantine J. Menadue ’19, son of Derek J. Menadue ’88; Conor E. O’Callaghan ’19, son of Thomas W. O’Callaghan ’83; Shane D. Scannell ’19, son of Jeffrey J. Scannell ’82; Truman J. Strug ’19, son of Scott D. Strug ’81; Cameron M. Turner ’19, son of Christopher D. Turner ’85, John J. Wright ’19, son of John J. Wright ’75, grandson of Margaret Schmidt, MH ’50 Third and back row: Christian J. Brady ’19, son of Kevin M. Brady ’85; Trevor M. Connor ’19, son of Alexander J. Sturgis ’94; John D. DiPlacido ’19, son of Daniel DiPlacido ’88; Mark J. Downey ’19, son of Mark Downey ’70; Ian F. Glancy ’19, son of John P. Glancy ’83; Daniel F. Higgins ’19, son of Peter K. Higgins ’86; and Ian E. Hunt ’19, son of David C. Hunt ’86. Summer 2019
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sports
2019
Josh Barton ’19
HOCKEY
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he Hawks had an outstanding 2018-2019 campaign, compiling a 12-6-3 regular season before advancing to the Super 8 tournament and winning three more exciting games. Led by captains Josh Barton ’19 (Division 1 Boston Globe Hockey Athlete of the Year), Ryan Pomposelli ’20, and Matt Ryan ’20, the team consistently performed well on the ice and outplayed their opponents thanks to hard work and good attitudes. Although the Hawks had not won a Super 8 game since 2008, they defied the naysayers this year, riding their #8 seed to wins over Austin Prep, Arlington, and Hingham, before falling to BC High in the state semi-finals. The top line in particular, highlighted by the team captains and Matt Talarico ’19, was a Catholic Conference powerhouse and a nightmare for
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opponents to play against, but the Hawks showcased impressive scoring and defensive depth all season. Goaltender, James Herring ’19, also played strong over the course of the year, making some impressive saves throughout the playoff run. Perhaps the most exciting moment of the season was the victory over Arlington, when Mike Pitocchelli ’19 scored a thrilling game-winning goal with 53 seconds remaining in the game, silencing the large Arlington contingent and sending the Xaverian fans into a cheer worthy of a Stanley Cup Championship. Coach Dave Spinale called his team a truly special group that didn’t quit and showed a lot of leadership, “especially the seniors.” He looks forward to what next season has in store for his Hawks, with many incredible players returning to the ice in 2019-2020. Submitted by Hunter Broadbent ’19, Communications Corps
Marckenley Lima ’19
BASKETBALL Led by senior captains Marckenley Lima, Andrew Clarke, and Patrick Mogan, the basketball team had its best season in years. Some key players suffered injuries early in the season, but the team managed to stay competitive, starting 5-7 with wins over Burke, BridgewaterRaynham, Charlestown, BC High, and Newton South. The team finally rebounded from injuries and won 8 straight games to finish 13-7 and roll into the MIAA D1 South tournament. The streak featured wins over BC High, Brighton, St. John’s Prep, O’Bryant, Malden Catholic, Bridgewater-Raynham, in addition to wins over Braintree and Westwood which gave the team the championship of the Riley Winter Classic. The team defeated Needham in the 1st round of the playoffs 62-47, but came up short against 2nd seeded Mansfield to end their season. Submitted by Matthew Malley ’20, Communications Corps
Grant Laws ’19
WRESTLING Xaverian wrestlers across all grade levels earned postseason accomplishments this winter, including a 3rd place team finish at sectionals with three wrestlers (freshman Mike Bobola, junior Tanner Alexander, and senior Grant Laws) who qualified for All-States. Both Mike and Grant also qualified for New Englands. At 285 lbs, Grant went 50-3 on the season, winning both the Division 1 South and state titles, placing 2nd at All-States, third at New Englands, and earning the Hawks MVP title. He finished out his Xaverian wrestling career at 140-30. Submitted by Nathaniel Stefanon ’20, Communications Corps, and Tanner Alexander ’20
Sam Jean ’19
LACROSSE The varsity lacrosse team had a strong regular season record, qualifying easily for postseason play. They secured two wins over BC High and beat powerhouse rivals Duxbury, LaSalle, Bishop Guertin, Needham, Cohasset, and Billerica. However, two of their losses came to St. John’s Prep, who went undefeated in the Catholic Conference. A trio of senior captains anchored the team this year. Dylan Gardner ’19 was a stalwart on defense, and will head to play at Michigan next year. The tandem of Sam Jean ’19 (Wesleyan) and Trevor Carroll ’19 (Stevens Tech) were prolific offensive threats all year. Other players who have committed to play at the next level are seniors Jack Whalen (Skidmore) and CJ Mello (UMASS - Dartmouth) and juniors Teagan and Tanner Alexander (Bryant), Andrew Perry (Lehigh), and Shaun Padden (Quinnipiac). Submitted by Coach Gardner
Sean Greene ’20
ULTIMATE DISC The varsity ultimate disc team wrapped up the regular season with an incredible 17-0 undefeated record. They earned a national top 25 ranking, and enjoyed wins against Milton Academy, BC High, and Beaver Country Day, among others. Of note, they handily won the Natick Ultimate Invitational Tournament in May. Wins on the day included an 11-2 victory over Ashland, an 11-4 win over Wayland, an 11-7 victory over Beverly, and finally an 11-4 triumph over East Greenwich in the championship. Liam Glavin ’19 was named a Massachusetts all-star at his position. He co-led the team as captain with Matt Smith ’19.
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was intrigued. It turns out that he had a job in college working at a rock climbing wall and is friends with many good climbers. And so, the Rock Climbing Club got its start with a climbing enthusiast as moderator. Students travel to Central Rock Gym after school on Wednesdays and everyone, from freshmen to seniors, starts climbing. There are typically 15-20 Hawks at each session, sometimes as many as 30. When Mr. Jenkinson goes to the gym on non-club days, there are a handful of Xaverian students there as well. For Mr. Jenkinson, climbing is about more than just exercise. He says, “The survival component of it forces you to strip away all the nonessential things in life,” and notes that his favorite thing about climbing is how inclusive it is: “You see everyone climbing at different abilities, but everyone is supporting each other.”
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The survival component of it forces you to strip away all the nonessential things in life. R.D. JENKINSON
Pictured here is Dylan Raimondi ’19.
REACHING NEW HEIGHTS By Joshua Mould ’19, Communications Corps
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ost people who encounter a large boulder in their way would take the path of least resistance and walk around it. Not so for Xaverian’s Rock Climbing Club leaders, Dylan Raimondi ’19, Matt Mancini ’19, and Cole McElhinney ’19; they would tell you to go over it. The Rock Climbing Club,
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Xaverian’s newest extracurricular activity, began as a fun idea last summer. Dylan, Matt, and Cole were climbing at Central Rock Gym in Randolph and noticed there was a large group of Xaverian students who frequented the gym. One of them suggested there should be a club for the activity at school. But in order to do that, they needed one
important thing: a club moderator. After school started in the fall, Dylan had a meeting with his new school counselor, Mr. R.D. Jenkinson. Dylan says he could tell Mr. Jenkinson was outdoorsy by the nature scenes decorating his office and his brown Patagonia vest. As such, he mentioned his hobby of rock climbing. Mr. Jenkinson
Although climbing is not a team sport, Mr. Jenkinson says, “There’s a lot of community involved, and a lot of helping each other.” He adds, “Climbing is a really big workout. You can’t just climb routes back-toback-to-back or you will get pumped out. While resting, guys give and receive advice, and socialize with other climbers.” Even if traditional sports don’t appeal to someone, Mr. Jenkinson says that climbing provides students an outlet to the outdoor world: “It’s a physical, athletic activity, but you don’t have to be good at traditional sports to be able to do it.” As the founding seniors graduate, they hope the Rock Climbing Club lives on and inspires younger students. Matt Mancini ’19 says, “I hope that those who don’t know how to rock climb now eventually develop a passion for it like I have.”
CLASS OF 1969
A Golden Anniversary O n Friday, May 17, graduates of the Class of 1969 received their golden diplomas from Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X., Headmaster, in recognition of their 50th reunion during the annual Baccalaureate Mass at St. Timothy Church. From there, they boarded buses back to Xaverian to enjoy catching up with their fellow classmates, a delicious steak dinner, and a short presentation from the reunion committee. The Class of 1969 is known for its long history of dedication, service, and support of Xaverian Brothers High School. Ted Ristaino ’69 is presently serving on Xaverian’s Board of Trustees, while Charlie Stevenson ’69 retired only last year from a career of inspiring young men and propelling Xaverian’s athletic program to the top in the state. The Class of 1969 has made their mark on the world in a wide variety of careers and callings, from Joe Gilmore ’69, former President and CEO of UTEC Constructors Corporation, to Brian Cloonan ’69, Housing Director for the Town of Brookline, to Chris Stirling ’69, Executive Producer of WCVB’s award-winning
news program, Chronicle. This is only the third class in Xaverian history to meet the exciting 50th reunion milestone. Happy 50th!
Reunion Committee Bob Boyle ’69 Tim Brash ’69 Frank Callahan ’69 Chip Commander ’69 Rocky DeSimone ’69 Pat Gallivan ’69 Mark Gately ’69 Joe Gilmore ’69 Mike McMath ’69 Al Murphy ’69 Steve Murphy ’69 Ted Ristaino ’69 Charlie Stevenson ’69
Charlie Stevenson accepts his golden diploma from Brother Dan
CLASS OF 1969
BY THE NUMBERS 2 Xaverian Athletic Hall of Fame Members Charlie Stevenson ’69
Varsity Football and Golf Coach
Frank Prior ’69
Indoor Track, Outdoor Track
211
Members of the graduating class
$78,804
Class reunion gift in honor of Brother Bede Benn, C.F.X.
130
Donors who give back to Xaverian
$655,029
Rick Shea and John McMorrow
Cumulative class giving
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Xaverian Legacies
First row: Charlie Hobbs, Steve Murphy, Tim Brash, Ted Ristaino, James Hurley, Rocky DeSimone. Second Row: Mark Gately, Kevin Longval, Frank Coen, Pat Gallivan, Jay Glasson, Rick Shea. Third Row: Al Murphy, Chris Newell, Charlie Stevenson, Joe Gilmore, John McMorrow, Jim Callanan. Fourth Row: Mike McMath, Chip Commander, Mike Hansen, Frank Cintolo, Mike Nemitz, Felix Betro. Fifth Row: Bob Cassis, Charles Tenney, Gerry O’Brien, Mark Palange, Tom Lordan. Sixth Row: Tommy Matchett, Frank Callanan, Ken Tucker, Tom Kane, Steve Gannon. Seventh Row: Brian Cloonan, Jay Drummey, Roger Lynch
Felix S. Betro ’69: sons Miles F. Betro ’99 and Preston S. Betro ’13 Robert M. Byrne ’69: sons Robert M. Byrne ’08 and Michael M. Byrne ’10 William F. Davis ’69: son Robert M. Davis ’93 Thomas L. Dindy ’69: son Thomas H. Dindy ’09 Edward L. Doherty ’69: son Shawn M. Doherty ’94 Joseph A. Gilmore ’69: sons Joseph A. Gilmore ’88 and Christopher M. Gilmore ’90 Joseph E. Jenkins ’69: son Andrew J. Jenkins ’10 Edward P. Levasseur ’69: son Eric R. LeVasseur ’93 Gerard M. Mahaney ’69: son Ian M. Mahaney ’09 Vincent N. Mandarano ’69: son Vincent N. Mandarano ’98 Steven L. Murphy ’69: son David S. Murphy ’03 Steven P. Ritucci ’69: son Steven P. Ritucci ’97
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XAVERIAN LEGENDS: Penza and Two members of Xaverian’s first graduating class (also both graduates of Boston College), are marking another milestone together this year...their retirement. Beloved Xaverian teachers, Mr. Philip Penza ’67, P ’05 (social studies) and Mr. Denis Smith ’67, P ’95, ’98 (mathematics), share something else in common: they are both winners of the prestigious Ryken Award, the highest honor bestowed to Xaverian faculty and staff. These faculty members have impacted the lives of thousands of Xaverian alumni in their nearly five decades of service to Xaverian.
By Matthew Malley ’20, Communications Corps
MR. PHILIP PENZA ’67, P ’05 Social Studies, 2009 Ryken Award Winner
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fter graduating from college, Mr. Philip Penza had taken a job at the insurance giant, John Hancock, but didn’t find corporate life to his liking. Instead, he became a teacher. In 1975, he returned to his alma mater, and he’s been here since. He even met his wife, Patricia Penza, at Xaverian. She was also a Xaverian teacher who dedicated 16 years to the school. In addition to teaching, Mr. Penza coached football and soccer, and served as head coach for indoor and outdoor track. He is an honored member of the Xaverian Athletics Hall of Fame (Class of 2014). In 2018, he was inducted into the Massachusetts State Track Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame for his years of dedicated service to Xaverian’s track and field program.
there are so many alumni that come back, and we relive the fun we’ve had over the years.
ON COMING TO XAVERIAN AS A STUDENT…
I plan to play a lot of golf. I’m retiring to my home in Eastham on the Cape. My wife and I have made some good friends down there. I’ll miss the faculty here, and of course the students! That will be the hard part. I’ll especially miss Coach Stevenson, Mr. Morse, and Mr. Lozzi...among many others.
Basically, my parents weren’t happy with the public school and decided this would be a better option for me. We heard about a new Catholic school in Westwood called Xaverian. It was in a church bulletin at Blessed Sacrament in Walpole. Even now as a teacher,
Mrs. Linda Corbett, P ’11 Administration Office Manager and Administrative Assistant to the Headmaster and the Principal, 2017 Ryken Award Winner Mrs. Linda Corbett (or “Mama C” as she’s known by anyone who traveled with her for campus ministry) joined Xaverian in a support staff role in 1999. She had seen an advertisement in the newspaper, and her husband, the late Bryan Corbett ’70, always spoke highly of the school. She started off in a part-time role, working mostly on admissions tasks as well as 18
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assisting with main office duties. In her second year, she was promoted to admissions coordinator, working directly with Brother Daniel Skala, Headmaster, on admissions and financial aid. Since then, she’s been leading the charge in the main office as the office manager and as administrative assistant to both Brother Dan and Dr. Jacob Conca ’94, Principal.
ON WHAT XAVERIAN HAS MEANT…
Xaverian formed me as a student and a man. I think that it gave me a sense of humility...the idea of thinking of the outside community, of being a better citizen, and a better Christian. The Brothers taught me a lot about caring for the poor. It was the Brothers who I had as teachers who gave me the idea of what the Xaverian charism means. And I’m very happy that Brother Dan has carried on that tradition in the modern Xaverian.
ON RETIREMENT…
FAVORITE MEMORIES…
There are so many favorite moments in my time here, traveling with the students, seeing the Pope, helping out with campus ministry events, but I think the one I will remember most is when the first grade 7 students and parents rallied for the Thanksgiving Food Drive, raising over 3,000 perishable items to be donated to food pantries. It was amazing to see students bringing in suitcases full of items, or seeing parents pulling up with vans to unload cans and cans and cans of food. This warmed my heart and showed everyone the generosity of the Xaverian
community, especially the generosity of the Class of 2020.
ON RETIREMENT…
I am looking forward to retirement. I’ll be moving to be closer to my family and traveling as much as possible. My goal is to play a slot machine in every casino in the United States! I’ve already checked in with the local Catholic elementary school to see how I can volunteer there next year, and signed up to be a Eucharistic Minister at the local church. Most importantly, I’ll be spending time with my family, especially my mom!
Smith Prepare for Retirement MR. DENIS SMITH ’67, P ’95, ’98 Mathematics, 2011 Ryken Award Winner
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r. Denis Smith wasted no time in making his way back to Xaverian after graduating from Boston College. He returned to Clapboardtree Street as a math teacher fresh out of college, and has been here since. For Mr. Smith, it’s all about math. He served as the department chairperson for more than 20 years, was active in developing and leading the math team, and spent his summers teaching students who wanted to improve their math skills. Mr. Smith is a longtime and generous supporter of the Xaverian mission as a member of the Francis Xavier Society. If they awarded master’s degrees in patience and calmness, Mr. Smith would have them (instead he has a master’s in education). Mr. Smith is well known for his ability to work one-on-one with students of all levels, to help guide them to understanding and appreciation for the mathematics concepts they are learning. “The most rewarding experience,” he said, “is seeing the look on a student’s face when you know he finally understands the material.”
my student teaching. I came in contact with Brother Bede Benn C.F.X. (Yes, he is a real person!). When I finished student teaching, he left Xaverian and the school offered me a job.
ON XAVERIAN’S COMMUNITY…
Xaverian is special because it’s a community; it’s not just a school...even more so now because we have multiple generations here. There are legacy students whose fathers were also my students. There are now three generations of people who have come through as students. It’s extremely special to see, and also to teach.
ON RETIREMENT…
I have no plans whatsoever! Maybe a little bit of tutoring. I am going to take each day as it comes. I think I will probably miss seeing the people I work with each day in the math department the most, but I will miss people all over the school really.
ON COMING TO XAVERIAN TO TEACH…
After college, I was looking for a job to take when I completed
Mrs. Mary Taylor Director of Stewardship and Advancement Services
Mrs. Mary Taylor joined Xaverian in the 1994-1995 school year as a part-time employee in the advancement office. Now she is retiring as the Director of Stewardship and Advancement Services after nearly 25 years of dedication to Xaverian. This spring, Mrs. Taylor was recognized by the Association of Catholic Admissions and Advancement Professionals of
New England (ACAAP) for her distinguished service.
ON COMING TO XAVERIAN…
When I came to the interview (in October 1994), I assumed I wouldn’t work during the summer. After learning the position was year round, I drove home trying to figure out what I’d do the following
summer if I got the job. I discovered they had a wonderful camp here, run by Don and Peggy Mills, which my kids loved and where they learned to swim and dive. I dropped my daughters off at school, came to work with a short reverse traffic commute, and left in time to pick them up at school. Brother Dan even let me bring the girls in and do homework if they had time off school. The job expanded to full time, we brought in a lot more staff and raised a lot more money. Before you know it, nearly a quarter century has gone by. This is by far the best job I’ve ever had. I’m so grateful for the many wonderful colleagues in
my department and throughout the school, volunteers, parents, trustees, and alumni I’ve had the privilege of getting to know, and seeing the generations of inspiring young men pass through the school.
FAVORITE MEMORIES…
Two things that come to mind are dancing with students and the other chaperones to Spanish music at a house we visited during a service trip to Ecuador, and having the honor of forging a friendship with my dear pal, Brother Joe Gerard, who was the most charming person I’ve ever met.
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John and Judy Connor, P ’86, ’93 2019 Xaverian Medal Recipients and Gala Honorees
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36-year history with Xaverian surpasses that of many faculty, staff, and alumni, but Jack and Judy Connor aren’t faculty, staff, nor alumni. They are the parents of two alumni, Brian Connor ’86 and Greg Connor ’93. For more than three decades, they have been volunteering and supporting Xaverian’s fundraising efforts, whether it was as presidents of the Parents’ Council or serving on the Board of Trustees. For these reasons and more, John P. (Jack) and Judy M. Connor, P ’86, ’93, were this year’s Xaverian Medal recipients and Gala 2019 Honorees. “We are so grateful to Jack and Judy for their work on behalf of Xaverian,” said Brother Dan. “We truly wouldn’t be the school we are today without the incredible support of parents like them.” Jack and Judy’s initial involvement in Xaverian came, as Jack says with a chuckle, “Because
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we weren’t paying attention.” They received an unexpected call at home, asking if they would take over as presidents of the Parents’ Council. Having never participated in the Parents’ Council, they didn’t know what they were signing up for. As it turns out, they were the ideal team for the job and it kick-started decades of Xaverian involvement for the couple. The Connors are credited with being the motivating force behind the now-robust advancement program at Xaverian, and with leading the way for the Brother Marcellus Society, the school’s planned giving program. With an extensive background in fundraising for their shared alma mater, Boston College, Jack was familiar with collegiate philanthropy, and he brought many of the ideas and methods over to Xaverian during his Board of Trustees tenure, from 1995-2005. What drives their dedication to Xaverian? “We
really do love this school,” Judy said. “We love the way our boys flourished here, and we’ve just been very pleased with it. They really do care about the students here.” She added that their steadfast support is also in large part because of Brother Dan and their high respect for him, and due to the relationships they forged with other parents at Xaverian. One thing they want made clear - they do not feel they deserve to be the Xaverian Medal recipients. They accepted the honor only on behalf of the generations of dedicated parents who have served this school. “There are just so many people who this could be,” Judy said. And off they go, naming the names of all the other parents who have been Xaverian supporters throughout the years.
Gala 2019
Xaverian’s campus was transformed for the Gala on March 16, 2019. Maria Stephanos, P ’18, WCVB news anchor, once again served as the talented emcee. The Chef ’s Table provided delicious hors d’oeuvres and a standout three-course dinner. Xaverian’s Pep Band gave a surprise performance of “When the Saints Go Marching In” and the Hip Pocket Orchestra got the crowd on its feet for hours of dancing.
Xaverian Medal Winners
In addition to Jack and Judy Connor, P ’86, P ’93, recipients of the prestigious Xaverian Medal include: • Rick ’68 and Joanne Spillane • Paul ’73 and Anne Noble, P ’02, GP ’21 • John Brodeur, P ’91, ’94 and Debbie Brodeur, P ’91, ’94 • Jack ’75 and Pamela Egan • Larry ’73 and Carol Begley • John ’70 and Denise Murphy, P ’03 • Domenic Lalli, P ’98 • The late Brother Raymond Hoyt, C.F.X. ’70 • Rick and Cathy Roche, P ’11
495
475,731
$
Attendees
$67,770
Total Raised Raised exclusively for the Strengthening Minds, Empowering Creativity initiative through the Fund Our Future
Celebrating Xaverian’s Steadfast Supporters
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nowflakes danced on the ceiling and a cool blue glow lit the Sarah M. Bisson Foyer as 185 guests arrived to champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and the
quiet background music of Ryan Wesner ’20 playing the piano. The Francis Xavier Society celebrates Xaverian’s most steadfast supporters; those who give $1,000 or more a year to Xaverian. On December 6, 2018, many of these alumni, parents, alumni parents, grandparents, trustees, and friends, gathered once again for the annual Francis Xavier Society Reception. It was an evening of fine food, friendship, and gratitude for all who make the mission of Xaverian possible. Thank you!
Did you know? In 2017-2018, Xaverian welcomed 488 members into the Francis Xavier Society...82 were first-time members. If you would like to join this group of dedicated supporters, please make a gift of $1,000 or more to the Fund for Xaverian before June 30, 2019. We hope to see you at the 2018-2019 Francis Xavier Society celebration on December 5, 2019.
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DR. CAROLYN HERMAN
Xaverian’s New Director of Staff Formation
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arolyn Herman, Ph.D., was appointed Director of Staff Formation this year as Katie Spillman, the previous director, moved onto the principalship at an all-girls high school in New York. Dr. Herman is eminently qualified for the position, graduating as valedictorian with a bachelor’s of arts in theology and the program of liberal studies from the University of Notre Dame, a master’s of arts in theology from The Catholic University of America, and a Ph.D. in systematic theology from Boston College. She is also trained in spiritual direction and holds a post-master’s certificate in the practice of spirituality from Boston College. Building on the work of her predecessor, this year Dr. Herman maintained a robust schedule of faculty and staff retreats, prayer services, and special community-building events. In addition, she added a weekly faculty and staff formation e-newsletter, In Harmony Small Things Grow, a spiritual communication to encourage prayer and reflection with the fundamental principles of the Xaverian Brothers. She facilitated an online Advent “Busy Person’s Retreat,” and the “Lenten Retreat in Everyday Life.” Dr. Herman also guided the faculty through two faculty-reads, Henri Nouwen’s Life of the Beloved and his Return of the Prodigal Son. As part of her role, Dr. Herman also meets regularly for pastoral conversations with all non-tenured faculty in their first five years at Xaverian to check in on their transition to the school, their formation progress, and their vocation as teachers in an all-boys, Xaverian Brothers, Catholic school. Additionally, she offers spiritual direction to all interested faculty and staff members. She has also established the Xaverian Women’s Circle to support the school’s 38 female faculty and staff members, seven of whom are new this year. “It’s a unique calling for a woman to be ministering in an all-boys, Catholic school environment,” said Dr. Herman. “This group allows us to come together as women in prayer, to have conversations about the classroom and the office space, and to serve as another avenue of support for each other.” Part of what drew her to this position, she says, is the fact that it exists at all. “It spoke volumes to me about Xaverian’s
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“
…this position ministers to the faculty and staff and helps to nourish and support them in both their spiritual journeys and in their formation, which means their understanding of and their embodiment of the Xaverian mission.
mission that it has a position to support faculty and staff formation in a way similar to how campus ministry provides spiritual nourishment for the students.” With her background in theology and specifically in spiritual direction, she says the opportunity to create programming and work one-onone with faculty and staff, walking with them on their personal spiritual journeys, especially appealed to her. Outside of Xaverian, Dr. Herman facilitates courses for the Boston College Crossroads program, a continuing education initiative in BC’s School of Theology and Ministry. She is also the busy mom to four children who range from preschool to fifth grade, and serves as Vice Chair of the School Board for Blessed Sacrament School in Walpole.
Q&A with Dr. Herman What do you see as the role of the Director of Staff Formation? In envisioning this position, I think the Xaverian Brothers were really hoping that their vision and mission continue and are handed on through the lay teachers and staff who come to our school. As such, this position ministers to the faculty and staff and helps to nourish and support them in both their spiritual journeys and in their formation, which means their understanding of and their embodiment of the Xaverian mission.
How do you define spiritual direction? Spiritual direction is accompanying someone in their spiritual journey. It is about walking with someone as they seek to grow in their relationship with God and discern the movements of the Holy Spirit in their life. It’s not a position of authority; it’s a position of companionship. To this point in my work as a spiritual director, I have primarily worked with people from the Catholic or Christian tradition. However, I would happily walk with anyone, in any variety of traditions. My training has not been exclusive to Catholicism. What about the Xaverian mission stands out to you? What stands out to me about the Xaverian mission is the focus on being created in the image of God, that we are all God’s beloved daughters and sons. The Xaverian mission is about affirming and accessing the divine dignity in ourselves and others.
fun fact: Dr. Herman was valedictorian at the University of Notre Dame and gave her commencement address alongside George W. Bush!
MATT KLENTAK ’98
From Clapboardtree St. to Phillies Front Office By Joshua Mould ’19, Communications Corps In 1998, Matt Klentak was handed his high school diploma from Xaverian Brothers High School. A little over 17 years later, he was named the youngest General Manager in Philadelphia Phillies history. Matt was kind enough to offer Xaverian an inside peek into his journey from Clapboardtree Street to the corner office. Matt, a baseball player as a Hawk, went on to play at Dartmouth College and graduated with an economics degree in 2002. Upon graduation, he got a job in the Colorado Rockies baseball operations department, which was followed by a position in labor relations for Major League Baseball in New York. While there, he helped put together the 2006 Collective Bargaining Agreement. Klentak was then hired as the Director of Baseball Operations for the Orioles and stayed until 2011. It was there that he got to know the current Phillies President, Andy MacPhail. Klentak then traveled to the other side of the country to Los Angeles, where he worked as the Assistant General Manager of the Angels, mainly handling arbitration, contracts, and other roster issues. His journey to the General Manager position culminated in 2016 when he was named the Phillies Vice President of Baseball Operations and General Manager. The good part? Klentak said that he enjoys the challenge of leading 200+ people and “keeping everyone focused on the same goals...maintaining positive and relentless communication at all times.” His colleagues are also a benefit. “I am fortunate that some of my colleagues are also some of my best friends,” he said. “We spend so much time together...it’s really important to enjoy the time you spend with your colleagues.” But losing, he said, is the hard part of the job. “Even the best teams will lose close to 40% of their games. That’s 40% of your spring/summer that you go home
disappointed. That’s tough.” It’s not just the losing, but also balancing the desire of the fans with the team’s long term goals: “I hate losing, and I can certainly relate to our passionate fans who want to win NOW. Trust me, I want to do that, too. But I also have a responsibility to the organization to build a sustainable winner.” Klentak spoke fondly of his Xaverian experience, crediting his teachers and coaches for the positive community environment. He said, “I am thankful every day that my parents gave me the opportunity to attend Xaverian ,” and says he owes his personal success to teamwork, collaboration, and communication. “Discipline is also very important,” he added, “especially as the Phillies have gone
through a rebuild for the last three years.” Ryan Plunkett and Jonathan Chemburkar, Xaverian graduates from the Class of 2015, recently secured full-time positions with the Phillies as a Quantitative Analyst and Software Engineer, respectively. Klentak shed light on this, saying, “They are incredibly talented. They fit in well with our organizational culture. And we are thrilled to have them onboard and helping us win a World Series championship.” Matt offers this to current Xaverian students, hoping to follow their own dreams: “It’s a grind and there really are no shortcuts. The hours are long, the travel is tough, and the sacrifices are very real. But if you love it, it will never feel like a job.”
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It’s a grind and there really are no shortcuts. The hours are long, the travel is tough, and the sacrifices are very real. But if you love it, it will never feel like a job.
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A Legacy of Acceptance Brendan Burke ’06 was one of those kids who everyone remembers well. He was outgoing, personable, a bright light who made friends easily, a well-adjusted young man who tragically died too young. In 2010, Brendan, a college student at Miami University, was involved in a terrible car accident during a snowstorm. Both he and a friend were killed. His memory lovingly lives on with family and friends, but the car accident might have cut short his public story if not for one thing...at 21, Brendan had already made a name for himself. Just months earlier, he had come out as a gay man in an article on ESPN. com, thus sparking a nationwide conversation on homosexuality and athletic participation. To understand all of this, you have to know that Brendan came from a hockey family. His father is Brian Burke, a famed NHL manager with a long career in professional and Olympic hockey management and broadcasting. From a young age, Brendan’s world revolved around the ice. It continued at Xaverian, where he played hockey until his senior year before abruptly quitting. At the time, he told his family it was because he wasn’t good enough and didn’t want to be a backup. He later admitted that it was because he didn’t think he could handle another season pretending not to be gay, listening to his teammates’ locker room talk. After Xaverian, Brendan went on to Miami University in Ohio where the pull of the game hooked him back in. He became a RedHawks student manager and was once again immersed in hockey culture. Then in 2007, he made the brave step to come out to his family...they said they loved him. In 2009, he told the RedHawks organization…they were unphased and supportive. He even came back to Xaverian and told an auditorium full of students about his experience...they gave him a standing ovation. But the biggest splash was when he told ESPN. Brendan had read an article in USA Today written by Justin Bourne, a former minor league hockey player who was advocating for the end of homophobic slurs in hockey locker rooms. Brendan emailed Justin to thank him, and one thing led to another...suddenly Brendan had an offer by ESPN’s John Buccigross to write an article about his coming out and how both his famously tough hockey father and the Miami University hockey program accepted him. “Imagine if I was in the opposite situation, with a family that wouldn’t accept me, working for
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Patrick, Molly, Kerry, and Katie Burke at Xaverian for the Without X-Ception presentation a sports team where I knew I couldn’t come out because I’d be fired or ostracized,” he is quoted in the ESPN article. “People in that situation deserve to know that they can feel safe, that sports isn’t all homophobic and that there are plenty of people in sports who accept people for who they are.” ESPN published the article on November 24, 2009. Days later, Brendan appeared alongside his father in a live TV interview on TSN, talking about how all people should feel safe to participate in sports–gay, straight, or otherwise. Then on February 10, 2010, Buccigross published another article about Brendan, this one after attending his funeral. He wrote, “A few select people on this earth illuminate. They shine with a softened glow. Not a glow for show, but a glow from an intense love of people and life. You might know a person like this. Brendan Gilmore Burke, who died Friday in a car accident in Indiana and was buried Tuesday in Dorchester, Mass., was one of those people.” Brendan’s bravery and light made waves in the hockey world, and the ripples have been felt since. Now, his family continues his mission as advocates. His brother, Patrick Burke ’01, helped form the You Can Play Project (www. youcanplayproject.org) on the premise that sexual orientation should not matter in sports. “If you can play, you can play” is their motto. He is now the Senior Director of Player Safety for the NHL,
but he finds time to continue the conversation, ensuring that Brendan’s message still resonates today. In March, Patrick, his mother, Kerry, and his sisters, Molly and Katie, all came to Xaverian to talk to Without XCeption, a club founded to acknowledge and offer support to students in various stages of awareness, acceptance, and openness about their sexual orientation. Brendan’s family talked about his coming out process and their reaction to the news, his experience as a gay man in sports (both at Xaverian and at the collegiate level), and the role his family continues to play as advocates. And they shared how supportive Xaverian’s campus ministry team, students, faculty, and staff were to Brendan. There were a lot of laughs, a few tears, but most importantly, an open and judgmentfree conversation, as the Xaverian community remembers Brendan and strives to carry on his legacy. “As a Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School, our mission calls us to love and respect each of God’s sons and daughters, without exception,” says Brother Daniel Skala, Headmaster. “We were honored to welcome back the Burke family, and grateful for their candid message of love and acceptance for all. It is our aim at Xaverian to be an inclusive community, respecting the differences in one another.”
FOUNDER’S DAY
Pictured, l to r, are Joyce Glennon DeCosta ’58, Joan Arnold ’58, Kay Connolly ’58, Lillian LeBlanc Chenell ’58, William Semler ’58, and Bob Lapsley ’58.
On December 3, 2018, the Xaverian community gathered to celebrate Founder’s Day Mass. We were honored to be joined by 19 Mission Church High School alumni. Front row, l to r: Catherine McNiff ’54, Frank Fallon ’57, John Bernard ’57, Edward Rehill ’48, Phyllis McManus Hayes ’55, Tom Hayes ’46, John Cummings ’50, Walter Boggio ’46, and Mary Fitzpatrick ’52. Back row, l to r: Joe Connolly ’55, Tom Connolly ’60, Jim Conroy ’57, and John Walsh ’57
CLASS NOTES CLASS OF 1967
CLASS AGENTS: Tony Camarra, Ned Kennedy, Phil Penza, Mark Reagan, Alan Ruskis, Denis Smith Phil Penza and Denis Smith are both retiring from their teaching positions at Xaverian. They have impacted the lives of thousands of young men over their nearly five decades of service. To read more about it, go to page 18.
CLASS OF 1968 CLASS AGENTS: Peter Markey, Joe Savage
CLASS OF 1969 CLASS AGENTS: Felix Betro, Chip Commander, Rocky DeSimone, Mark Gately, Mike McMath, Brian Moloney, Al Murphy Pat Gallivan is now retired. He was the Town of Scituate’s conservation and natural resources coordinator. He resides in Milton. Dennis Glynn is now retired after having worked as the director of facilities at Milton Academy.
Tom Kane is a retired FBI special agent. He resides in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey with his wife, Margaret. Rick Shea is the senior vice president and chief financial officer at Syndax in Waltham. He and his wife, Gitte, reside in Cohasset.
1970
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Save the Date: MAY 15 – 50th Reunion
CLASS OF 1970
CLASS AGENTS: John Downing, Jack Parsons
CLASS OF 1971 CLASS AGENT: Mark Campisano Jim Goggin retired on June 14, after spending 44 years in education. He has been a first grade teacher, an assistant college track coach for Bentley University and The College of William and Mary, the assistant intramural director at William and Mary, and an elementary physical education teacher at the Clara Byrd Elementary School in Williamsburg, Virginia. He says he has had way too much fun teaching students of all ages to love running - and to become Red Sox fans!
CLASS OF 1972 CLASS AGENTS: Jerry Betro, Jim Hennigan Robert Hanson is a senior project manager and risk administrator at Ice Rink Events. He is also an avid jet and alpine skier, rides motorcycles, and even fixes Zambonis. He lives in Norwood.
CLASS OF 1973 CLASS AGENTS: Rich Betro, Rick Campbell, Steve Curley, Rich Hagerty, Jay McDonald, Rich McGowan John Baker retired from the Coast Guard on March 31 after serving on active duty for 31 years and as a civilian employee for nine years. He and his wife, Kim, reside in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and have three adult sons. John and Kim are part owners of 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company in Fredericksburg. Larry Begley is now the CFO of Abacus Insights. Abacus is an early-stage healthcare IT/big data company, with which he is excited to be a part. Ted Mahoney was recently awarded the Legend of the Year Award by the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston and the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Cape Cod. He is a third-generation homebuilder and developer. Ted founded Windjammer Construction after graduating from law school 34 years ago, and he is also the president of Fairview Millwork, a building materials supply company with five locations throughout Massachusetts. Ted’s son, Jay, is a zoning attorney, and his daughter, Laura, is a recent graduate of veterinary school. Ted and his wife, Lei, have a one-year-old son, Theodore.
CLASS OF 1974 CLASS AGENTS: James Arena-DeRosa, Chris Carney, Kevin Coughlin, Steve Oberto Gerry Cogliano is a retired lieutenant colonel for the US Coast Guard. He was an OSHA safety manager.
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CLASS NOTES Class of 1974
(Continued)
Tom Jenkins is a driver for Pembroke Hospital. He resides in Norton.
1975
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Save the Date: June 13 – Reunion 2020
CLASS OF 1975
Dan can be reached at Daniel.Feeney@NEMoves.com or at (781) 389-5870.
CLASS OF 1979 CLASS AGENTS: Paul Dauwer, David Foster, Steven Morris, Bob Reardon Paul Dauwer started a new position as senior instructional designer with UniFirst Corporation in Wilmington. He designs eLearning, designs and presents management training, and manages a leadership program for high potential new leaders.
CLASS AGENTS: Bob Ennis, Liam Fitzgerald, Steve Gill, John Holiver, John McGourty, John O’Brien
George Davison is the senior director of global accounts for Hach Company.
Jack Craffey has diverted slightly in becoming a client manager/auditor for BSI (British Standards Institute,) performing manufacturing ISO medical audits, traveling every week to different parts of the country, after a career in manufacturing medical devices at various locations in the US (North Dakota, Utah, and Illinois). He has seen a lot of organizations supporting the baby boomers by making hip and knee replacements - but they haven’t got his yet! Jack’s three sons are graduates of the University of Illinois, his daughter is finishing high school, and for now, he and his wife, Kathryn, still reside in the Chicago area.
Richard Fraher is now retired. He resides in Hingham.
CLASS OF 1976 CLASS AGENTS: Dave Capobianco, John Forte, Gene Mahoney John Forte was nominated and selected as the recipient of the 2019 MIAA Girls’ Soccer Coach of the Year Award. His selection was based upon excellence of character, impact upon students and community, and his coaching credentials. John was selected from all nominations by a screening committee of MIAA coaching education instructors. This award was presented to John at the MIAA Awards Recognition Banquet on May 23. As a result of this selection, John is also the Massachusetts nominee for the National Federation of High Schools Section 1 Coach of the Year Award for 2019-2020. Congratulations to John on these most deserving and prestigious honors!
Scott McNamee is now retired. He was a police officer for the State of Rhode Island. He and his wife, Elizabeth, reside in Springfield, Virginia. Rick Walsh is the director of software development at Central Square Technologies in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He and his wife, Maryjo, reside in Boca Raton.
1980
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Save the Date: June 13 – Reunion 2020
CLASS OF 1980
CLASS AGENTS: Jack Curran, Mike Kennedy
CLASS OF 1981 CLASS AGENTS: Rich Joyce, Rich Mazzocca, Gary McNeil, Jim Walsh Greg Corcoran is currently a law clerk to US Magistrate Judge Douglas E. Arpert in Trenton, New Jersey. Greg lives in Lawrenceville, New Jersey with his wife, Ann, and four children, ages 10-17.
CLASS OF 1982 CLASS AGENT: Dan DiSangro Dan DiSangro was promoted to employment marketing manager at the Massachusetts Department of Correction.
Steve Kern is a Vice President and Portfolio Manager at the de Burlo Group, Inc. He is responsible for all fixed income activities, including research, analysis, trading, and portfolio management. He also works with the equity team in determining the stock/bond asset allocation for the firm’s balanced portfolio strategy. Steve’s son, Matthew ’21, is a track athlete at Xaverian, while his other son, Andrew ’15, graduates from the University of Virginia this May. He lives in Newton with his wife, Susan, and daughters, Caroline and Sarah. Steve is a member of Our Lady Help of Christians parish in Newton, where he has taught in the religious education program for 16 years.
CLASS OF 1983 CLASS AGENTS: Bernie Braudis, Rick Cameron, Dan Evans, John Sullivan Sean Brophy is the president and owner of Brophy Construction and Design located in Wareham. Sean and his family, Brady, Brett, and his wife, Dina, live in East Wareham.
CLASS OF 1984 CLASS AGENTS: Paul Bertram, Greg Buchanan, Chuck DeCoste, Ed Martin Joseph Connelly was recently installed as the president of the Palm City, Florida Chamber of Commerce. Vincent Drago is a clinical care manager at Vinfen. Dan Perrotti is a detective with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. He and his wife, Tracee, reside in Jacksonville, Florida.
1985
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Save the Date: June 13 – Reunion 2020
CLASS OF 1985
CLASS AGENTS: Matt Catalano, Anthony Dell, Dan Dwyer, Frank Geishecker, Jerry Giusti, Joe Imbriani, Dino Mancini, Frank Reilly, Jamie Sierra, Ted Thibodeau Kevin Brady is the vice president of talent development and employee experience at Lifespan.
Joe Gill is the vice president of IODC distribution at PGIM Investments in Newark, New Jersey.
CLASS OF 1977 CLASS AGENT: Jim Donovan Chris Marzilli is an executive vice president for General Dynamics, working in the Washington, DC metro area.
CLASS OF 1978 Dan Feeney has earned the Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation, the premier seller agency designation for real estate professionals. The SRS is conferred by the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI) and is an official credential of the National Association of REALTORS®. As a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, his service area includes much of eastern Massachusetts, and he is licensed to practice throughout the state. He can also assist out-of-state alumni with relocation services and referrals. Among his specialties is helping seniors downsize and clean out with respect and dignity.
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Class of 1985 Dave MacDougall ’85 met with former principal, Domenic Lalli, P ’98, and former teacher, Suzanne Oot, at The Original Tiki Bar in Fort Pierce, Florida this past winter.
Class of 1985 (Continued) Chuck Carmone has launched a podcast called, “Get Outside New England.” His podcast focuses on his passion for outdoor sports, such as skiing, mountain biking, hiking, cycling, kayaking, and more. He travels around New England interviewing leaders and influencers in these sports. You can find his podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, and more. Danny Dwyer is currently a paraprofessional working for Center School in Easton. He and his two boys also reside in Easton. In additon, Danny has run his third consecutive Boston Marathon for The Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Organization. Brian Foxx is the director of club analytics and reporting at BJ’s Wholesale Club. He resides in Easton with his wife of 26 years, Tara, and their two children, Kyle, 21, and Megan, 18.
Class of 1990 & 2024 Mark Resnick and his family took a trip to Hawaii during Christmas break. While there, Mark snapped a photo of his son, Sean, a member of the Class of 2024, at the St. Francis Xavier Mission on Maui.
CLASS OF 1988 CLASS AGENTS: Dan DiPlacido, Derek Menadue, Rich O’Connell Brian Cisneros recently opened his own financial advising practice in New Hampshire with Northwestern Mutual. He is looking to work with as many Xaverian graduates as he can across the country. Feel free to reach out to him at Brian.Cisneros@nm.com. He and his wife, Kristin, have two children and reside in Lee, New Hampshire.
Paul Kelly and his new wife, Cheryl, were married this past April. They reside in Whitman. Both work in Abington: Cheryl is a school teacher, and Paul is a real estate agent at Trufant Real Estate. Pat O’Connor is a program manager and subject matter expert for Oasis Systems. David Zuliani is a logistics account executive at Total Quality Logistics. He resides in Florida.
CLASS OF 1986 CLASS AGENTS: Mike DiMascio, Chris Maloof Mark Farrell is an intellectual property professional for Johnson & Johnson, with expertise in patent portfolio development and management.
CLASS OF 1987 CLASS AGENTS: Derek Doo, Kevin Whelan Kevin Poirier is the owner and creative director at PearTree Design, LLC in Norwood. PearTree is a marketing and advertising firm. They were named a top branding agency in 2018 and 2019 by Clutch, a group that recognizes the highest-performing B2B companies by industry and location. PearTree specializes in logo design, web design, brand development, brochure design, direct mail, copywriting, and photography.
CLASS OF 1989 CLASS AGENT: Warren Mead Warren Mead is the vice president of business development and channel at Nasuni. Warren was integral to Xaverian’s launch of its new alumni networking platform, AlumniFire, by agreeing to sponsor the program. He and his family reside in Medfield. Rob Tango moved back to Boston after 20 years in Philly and New York. He is the director of investment operations at Northwestern Mutual in Wellesley. Rob resides in Newton.
1990
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Save the Date: June 13 – Reunion 2020
CLASS OF 1990
CLASS AGENTS: Brendan Fowkes, Dave Martin Rick Dionisio is an innovative technical recruiting executive and recently opened his second company, InterviewJet. He is the managing partner for InterviewJet, which serves the Boston and New York City areas.
CLASS OF 1991 CLASS AGENTS: Pete Adams, Greg Curran, Wes Gardner, Steve Hunt Lauris Lambergs is co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of Renaissance Wealth Advisors, LLC, an independent advisory firm. Lauris has over twenty-five years of global professional experience in institutional investing, business management, and family facilitation. By recognizing that each client has a unique family logic in considering and making complex financial decisions, Lauris is better able to partner with families to create and sustain long-term financial wellbeing. Lauris has developed particular expertise working with cross-border families, clients with financial roots in both the US and elsewhere across the globe. He travels constantly
Class of 1991 & 2003 Tom O’Donnell ’91 is underway off the coast of Pearl Harbor on the USS Pasadena (SSN 752) conducting his first submarine command course as the prospective commanding officer instructor. Tom is pictured with Lt. Commander Peter Bleday ’03 on the bridge of the USS Pasadena. Peter is an engineer with the US Navy.
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Alumnus Authors Book on Tennis Legends Jamie Sierra ’85 is a proud member of one of Xaverian’s most dominant athletic teams. He was key to Xaverian’s 1984 State Champion cross country team, inducted into the Xaverian Athletic Hall of Fame in 2014. He recently launched a book on Amazon called, The Big Four: What Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray Can Teach Us About Creating an Extraordinary Life. We reached out to Jamie to find out what this book was all about: What is “The Big Four” all about? The book is about the top four men’s tennis players of this past decade, profiling their careers, their journeys, and the psychology of what makes them legends. I created an archetype for each player: Federer Consistency, Nadal - Tenacity, Djokovic - Overcoming Adversity, and Murray - Perseverance. I wanted to capture what we can learn from them and apply it to our own lives.
CLASS NOTES Class of 1991
(Lauris Lambergs Continued)
and has spent extensive time abroad, building upon a deepseeded passion to learn and experience new languages and cultures. When not working, Lauris plays competitive soccer, enjoys classic alternative 80’s music and, thanks in large part to the endless patience of his wife, has somehow learned to appreciate Impressionist art and good red wine.
CLASS OF 1992 CLASS AGENTS: Chris Lenox, Bill Weber Tim Carey is the director of program services at South Shore Elder Services in Braintree.
CLASS OF 1993 CLASS AGENTS: David Gately, Jay Ierardi, Brian Tiernan
CLASS OF 1994 CLASS AGENTS: Matt Miller, Vincent Verducci Chris Coakley is Vice President of Government Affairs at Saltchuk, representing the company’s interests at the federal level and coordinating its public policy and political activities nationwide. Chris previously spent four years as vice president of legislative affairs for the American Waterways Operators, an industry association representing the U.S. tugboat, towboat, and barge industry. Chris makes his home in Washington, DC, with his wife, Elizabeth, and his two sons, Beck and Gus. Liam Dunfey is a senior services fundraiser for St. Paul’s Senior Services in San Diego, California. Sami Ghantous is in business development of energy storage at Shell, developing opportunites for front-of-themeter energy storage projects. 28
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Will only tennis players like this book? There is quite a bit of content that is tennis-related. However, this book is a self-development book on modeling these great players and understanding their psychology and approach. Was there a Xaverian English teacher that had an impact on you as a writer? Mr. Salachi had the greatest impact on me. There is no doubt that the teachers I had at Xaverian all had a profound influence on me. You were a track star here at Xaverian. Where did the passion for tennis come from? I was very fortunate to be on some outstanding track and cross country teams. My passion for tennis came from my father. He played tennis with business partners and was an avid watcher of great tennis players like Borg and Evert. I have been to the US Open multiple times, as well as other professional matches and just love the game, and hopefully, that came out in the book.
Chaz Landry and his wife, Debbie, expanded their family once again as they welcomed the birth of their sixth child, Katie Rose, on January 10. The newest bundle of joy joins the couple’s other children: Charlie, 9, Patrick, 7, Benjamin, 5, Julie, 3, and Sabina, 2. The Landry family is also in the process of completing their move from Massachusetts to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Jay McDonald joined Deloitte Consulting as a managing director in Boston. He leads Deloitte’s global DevOps Cloud business. He and his wife, Liza, have two daughters. They reside in Weymouth and spend summers in Humarock. Mike Stark was sworn in as the Chief of Police for the Allenstown, New Hampshire Police Department on March 11. His chief’s badge was pinned on him by his parents, Robert and Judith Stark, and his fiancee, Stephanie Planchet. He and Stephanie live in Manchester, New Hampshire, with the three youngest of their combined eight children.
1995
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Kevin Nowak has started a new position as Northeast Regional Leader of Sports, Recreation, and Entertainment at HOK, a global design, architecture, engineering, and planning firm. He will continue to be based in Philadelphia and will focus on collegiate athletic and recreation projects. Will Roberts is the chief operating officer at Foss Maritime Company. He resides in Seattle.
CLASS OF 1997 CLASS AGENT: Scott Reilly Bill Flanagan is the director and assistant global controller at SCIEX.
Save the Date: June 13 – Reunion 2020
CLASS OF 1995
CLASS AGENT: Theo Matheos Craig Kelleher is the co-founder and chief investment officer at Millstreet Capital Management.
CLASS OF 1996 CLASS AGENTS: James Costello, Adam Newman, Kevin Nowak, Larry Pickener, Will Roberts, Jason Springer, Jon Zadrozny Andy Joseph graduated from MCPHS University Worcester on December 19 from the Masters of Physician Assistant studies program. He started work in May with the Wachusett Emergency Physicians Group, providing care at the Health Alliance Leominster Emergency Department and Leominster Urgent Care facilities.
Class of 1998 Matt Kelly and his wife, Hilary, welcomed their second daughter, Ruth Alexandra, on June 13, 2018. She joins sister, Casey, three years old.
UPCOMING
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5
Night of Champions
Francis Xavier Society Reception
EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16
Legacy Breakfast
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3
Hawks in College Reception
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
ALL DATES ARE TENTATIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CHECK WWW.XBHS.COM/CALENDAR FOR EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
Alumni Service Day MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
Annual Golf Classic WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2
Parent Social Wine Tasting
Grade 9 Grandparents Day
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8
Entrance Exam
Grades 7 and 8 Grandparents Day
Christmas Tree Lighting TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020
12th Annual Fashion Show Entrance Exam
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28
Thanksgiving Day Football Classic (at St. John’s Prep)
24TH GOLF CLASSIC – WELLESLEY COUNTRY CLUB
O
n Monday, September 30, Xaverian will hold its 2019 Golf Classic at the prestigious Wellesley Country Club. The Xaverian Golf Classic is now in its 24th year and has raised more than $2 million for the Xaverian scholarship fund. If you are interested in playing or supporting this great event with a sponsorship or gift donation, please contact Chuck Carmone ’85, P ’16, Alumni Director, at ccarmone@xbhs.com or call 781-801-1621. Our goal this year is to raise $125,000 for the Xaverian scholarship fund. All sponsorships, gifts, and services are tax deductible. We’ll see you at the Wellesley Country Club!
Pictured here (l to r) is Paul Cokinos ’76, Ronald Harrington, Jay Driscoll ’76, and Mark Young ’77.
SAVE THE DATE FOR GOLF CLASSIC 2019: Monday, September 30 Summer 2019
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CLASS NOTES CLASS OF 1998 CLASS AGENTS: Brad Bestgen, Mike Favaloro, Ali Kamran-Rad, Dan Lalli, Rob Schultz Brian Mann, a former football student-athlete who has held senior fundraising positions at Rice and Dartmouth, has been named Senior Associate Athletic Director and Chief Development Officer for Athletics at University of California, Berkeley. Rob Schultz is a director of partnerships at Raremark, working with patients who suffer with cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease. He also recently became a Boston ecosystem advisor to the Government of Catalonia on their digital health initiatives.
CLASS OF 1999 CLASS AGENTS: Christopher Carney, David Curran, Michael DiStefano, Kevin Eaton, Derrick Knight, Stephen O’Sullivan Anthony Coviello-Blinn is an industrial analyst working for the Defense Contract Management Agency. He and his wife, Kimberly, reside near Manchester, England. Their daughter, Samantha, is attending Rossall School in Lancashire with plans to graduate in 2022. Bernie Gately is the manager of logistics operations at Cognex Corporation.
2000
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Save the Date: June 13 – Reunion 2020
CLASS OF 2000
CLASS AGENTS: Ryan Bradley, Phil Dudley, Matt Gardner, Pat McDonnell, Jonathan Simms, Brian Sullivan, Chris Vasta Emmett Maguire is an investment and treasury manager at Draper.
Class of 2002 Matthew Costantino and fellow members of the Class of 2002 reunited at the Thanksgiving Classic at Fenway Park this past November. L to r, first row: Andy Sweeney, Andy Ray, Joe Pinciaro, and Joe Imparato; second row: Tom Evans, Mike Lancaster, and Adam Evans; back row: Chris Wade, Matt Costantino, and Jay Iannoni.
How’s it going?
Stay in touch and let us know what you are up to. You can reach us at
notes@xbhs.com. CLASS OF 2001 CLASS AGENTS: Rick Bodio, Andrew Munchbach, Robert Shea Andy Boucher married Stefanie Scaglione on November 17 at Our Lady Help of Christians in Newton. They currently reside in Auburndale. Patrick Burke is the senior director of safety for the NHL. He is also in charge of handling all disciplinary issues and suspensions.
CLASS OF 2003
Mike Malvesti is a product account manager for BMC Software. He resides in Braintree.
Chris Leuth is the regional sales manager for Kettlebell Kitchen.
Mike O’Connor and his wife, Allie, are expecting their first child in the fall. They reside in Hyde Park.
Justin Macione is the director of financial planning and analysis at Evenflo Company, Inc.
Bob Tanguay is the vice president of PXP loT for Pwnie Express in Boston.
Joseph Susi is senior sales manager at Lola.com.
CLASS OF 2002
Class of 2000 Joe Doran and his wife, Megan, just celebrated the birth of their fourth child, Eileen Kelley, on March 25. They currently live in Stoughton along with their three other children, Michael, Ryan, and Claire. Both Joe and Megan work for Biogen, a large biotech company in Cambridge.
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Kevin Hilson recently moved back to Peachtree Corners, Georgia with his wife, Tasha, and four-year-old daughter, Katie. He continues in his account executive role at Actifio covering strategic enterprise accounts.
CLASS AGENTS: Max Holiver, Josh Kelly, John Murphy, Jim Scholl
CLASS OF 2004
CLASS AGENTS: Joe Imparato, Jerry Moffett, Dave Nelson, Andy Sweeney
CLASS AGENTS: Ryan Barry, Chris Campbell, Joe Greaney, Collin Haney, Jared Kelly, Tom May, Dan McSweeny, Ryan Munro, Chris Robbins
Matt Adams is the field sales manager for Samsung’s Home Entertainment Division.
Joe Burakoff is a business analyst for Blue Cross Blue Shield. He resides in Franklin.
Shawn Brown recently began a new job as manager for legislative affairs at the Northrop Grumman Corporation. He and his wife, Jill, have two girls - Quinn, 5, and Claire, 2. They reside in Arlington, Virginia.
Jim Hilson and his wife, Cara, live in Alexandria, Virginia, with their one-year-old son, James. Jim co-owns two coffee shops (Saxby’s) in Washington, DC, and he is also a recruiter.
Adam Evans is a regional sales manager for SLED, at ExtraHop.
Robert Masinda is an engineer with FM Global in West Gloucester, Rhode Island. He and his wife, Alison, reside in Warwick.
New Baby?
Let us know and we will send you a bib as a gift from Xaverian. Contact Donna O’Connor at doconnor@xbhs.com to share the news.
Class of 2006 Chris Kennedy and his wife, Caitlin, welcomed their second child, a son named William Daniel Kennedy, born on December 13. He is pictured with his big sister, Jacqueline, who is two years old. Chris and his family reside in Walpole.
Keith Willis is working for Boston-based Sage Therapeutics within their patient support services in Raleigh, North Carolina. Keith and his wife, Madison, have a daughter who is just shy of two years old. Go Hawks!
2005
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Save the Date: June 13 – Reunion 2020
Class of 2007 Jim Kearney and his wife, Lauren, are excited to announce that their daughter, Avery Rae, was born on March 4. Go Hawks!
Memorial Day weekend 2018 to Kimberly Zito. Richard Miranda and his wife, Andrea, welcomed their first child, Richard Stephen, on January 22, 2018. Richard is employed as a director at Fidelity and is enrolled in an MBA program at Bryant University as a member of the Class of 2020. They reside in Foxboro.
CLASS OF 2005
CLASS AGENTS: Tom Carroll, Mike DeCenzo, Dom Lombardi Zack Asack is currently a television producer for FOX Sports and NASCAR in Charlotte, North Carolina. He and his wife, Jaime, have two kids, Chase and Charleigh, and they reside in Matthews, North Carolina. Tom Carroll and his wife, Geri, became first-time parents when their son, Charles Gruver Carroll, was born on February 2. Tom, the former assistant director of admissions here at Xaverian, is employed at Fisher College. Dave Nicklas is a cyber security analyst for Deadbolt Data Security. He holds this position in addition to his position as senior information security specialist for the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. Mark Thomas is an assistant branch manager at Beacon Roofing Supply. This past October, he married Heather Gallant. Mark and Heather reside in Haverhill with their dog, Penny. James Wall is a human resources manager at MIT Technology Review. He resides in Dorchester.
CLASS OF 2006 CLASS AGENTS: Joe Anello, Mark DeCenzo, Andrew Goldberg Matt Carle is working for Manheim as a client solutions specialist, covering the New England region. Kevin Klaskin is a business development manager at Securitas Security Services USA. He was married over
Dan Danckert married Maria Charbonneau on November 24. They reside in Sturbridge. Craig MacDonald and his wife, Jennifer, are eagerly awaiting the birth of their first child, a girl, this spring. Joe Serra is a lead producer of integrated production at Kronos Incorporated. Pictured here is Joe at Xaverian. He returned recently to speak to some of our students and share his expertise in the field of marketing and communications as part of our Alumni Speaker Series, which is sponsored by the Alumni Association and the counseling office. Paul Shin is a business development manager at FeedMob. Joe Stieb has completed his Ph.D. program in U.S. History at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
CLASS OF 2007 CLASS AGENTS: Armando Agnitti, Luke Chmielinski, Ryan Gillan, Greg Hyman, Ben Key, Matt Moon, Fr. Mike Zimmerman Ryan Crowley is a partner at Lee & Crowley, LLC.
Chris Talutis is a manager of commercial analytics at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
CLASS OF 2008 CLASS AGENTS: Greg Burke, Joe Flocco, Brian Mellett, Brendan Raftery, Kevin Raftery, John Scholl, Matt Tannozzini, James Thorne Brad Hilson and his new wife, Glynis, married in Fort Lauderdale on February 23. Brad is an internal medicine doctor, finishing his second year of residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Glynis also graduated from medical school in Philly this past May. She matched her child psychiatry residency at Harvard/Brigham & Women’s/Children’s Hospital in Boston and will start in July. Brad will complete his last year of residency in Philly and then seek a position in the Boston area.
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Hawks in NYC
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n May 2, 2019, 18 Xaverian alumni gathered with Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X., Headmaster, Dr. Jacob Conca ’94, Principal, and Larry Furey, P ’21, Assistant Headmaster for Advancement at the Juniper Bar in New York City for some hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and conversation. It was a great evening of networking, reminiscing about time spent as a Hawk, and catching up on the news of Xaverian today. A special thank you to Patrick Sullivan ’77 (Woodbourne Capital Partners LLC) and Christopher Tam ’98 (Gillson Capital) for hosting this Alumni Association Reception.
Front Row, l to r: Mike Wakely ’14, Joe Gill ’76, Dr. Jacob Conca ’94, Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X., Jim Brett ’97, Gerard Alessandrini ’72, Terry Sumner ’78. Second Row, l to r: Larry Furey, P ’21, Chris Tamasi ’14, Paul Bachant ’89, Patrick Meehan ’04, Rich Sola ’90, Jon Thomas ’98, Chris Tam ’98, Patrick O’Sullivan ’77, Mike Zonghetti ’97, Greg Meehan ’08, Andrew Jenkins ’10, Darius Babel ’10. Missing from photo: Richard Czaja ’67 and Ryan Hult ’17
Hawks at Trillium
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he Boston Alumni Social on May 23, 2019 at Trillium Fort Point was a great success! Joining Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X. Headmaster and Dr. Jacob Conca ’94, Principal, were more than 70 Hawks who came out for some fun, award-winning beer, and to reconnect with classmates. This special event was hosted by Dan Grady ’87 (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP), Mike Weafer ’98 (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP), and Kevin Quigley ’05 (Choate, Hall & Stewart LLP). Pictured are (l to r) are Neal Minahan ’94, Matt Miller ’94, Joe Murphy ’94, Ben Cavallo ’94, and Jake Conca ’94.
CLASS NOTES Class of 2008
(Continued)
Andy Hyatt married Monika Bernotas on May 26, 2018. They live in Cambridge. Andy graduated from Boston University School of Medicine and is currently a first-year resident in psychiatry at Cambridge Health Alliance. Rich Saccone is the founder and CEO of HomeProvider, Inc. Matt Tannozzini and his wife, Leyla, welcomed the birth of their first child, a girl named Isla Rose, born on March 2. They have relocated to Newark, Delaware, where Matt is employed as a critical care transport nurse with Christiana Hospital.
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CLASS OF 2009 CLASS AGENTS: Jake Barnett, Garrett Buckley, Matt Cerullo, Dan Conroy, Rob Dion, Pete Dolan, Ryan Flanagan, Sean Hagerty, Johnny Kelley, Mike Pappano Kevin Betro is an investment associate at CCR Wealth Management. Dan Biscoe is the regional sales manager for Lacework. He resides in Boston.
Dan Peterson is a senior maintenance mechanic at Takeda Pharmaceuticals. Michael Skehill is a senior manager at Elite SEM. Matt Tamasi is an account executive for Headspace for Work.
2010
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CLASS OF 2010
Pat Casey recently relocated to Boston’s Back Bay from Washington, DC to work at Wayfair corporate headquarters. He and his fiancée, Nicole Pacheco, who is a lawyer at Skadden Arps, were engaged in Napa Valley and will be married at The State Room in September of 2020.
CLASS AGENTS: Kevin Aufiero, John Bleday, Anthony Breen, Eric Gesimondo
Dan Conroy is engaged, and he and his fiancee will be married in September in Providence. They currently reside in Arlington, Virginia. Dan works in the defense and aerospace industry as a program analyst at Systems Planning Analysis.
Anthony Breen currently owns a digital marketing and creative agency in Cincinnati. He and his wife, Gabby, have two dogs and reside just outside Cincinnati.
Jason Ford is employed as a consultant at AQN Strategies in Washington, DC. Chris Kucher is the sales manager at Tamr, a software company in Cambridge.
Darius Babel is an investment banking associate at Barclays Investment Bank.
Ryan Forte is a captain in Army Military Intelligence and stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia. He is currently deployed supporting contingency operations in Kuwait, Jordan, and Afghanistan. Joel Merriam is a senior account executive at WordStream, Inc. He resides in Canton.
“As someone who has mentored and hired many fellow Hawks, I see firsthand the power of the Xaverian network, and I want to share that power with as many alumni as possible. I hope you’ll join us.” Warren Meade ’89 POWERING CONNECTION WITH
T
his spring, with the sponsorship of Warren Meade ’89, Vice President of Business Development and Channel at NS1, Xaverian launched a powerful new platform for alumni networking—AlumniFire. In less than one month, more than 750 Hawks signed up...and it just keeps growing! AlumniFire allows alumni to connect with other members of the Xaverian community directly, whether it’s to further their own career or lend a hand to a fellow Hawk. Through this platform, Hawks can offer career advice, informational interviews, introductions, mentoring, connections, resume reviews, and job shadowing opportunities to their fellow alums. AlumniFire has a job board that will connect alumni who are hiring with alumni who are seeking a job or internship. There is even a heat map that can show you where other Hawks work around the country.
SIGN UP TODAY AT
xbhs.alumnifire.com STEP 1: You’ll be prompted to join the network using your LinkedIn account, Facebook, or email address. STEP 2: Explore! See what internships or jobs Hawks are looking to fill, who is offering career advice or guidance, and let the community know how you want to contribute as well. Become a part of Xaverian’s grassroots networking community and stay connected with your brothers for life.
Look at what AlumniFire accomplished in just one month…
761 228 77 308 55 508
Offering general career advice
Offering mentoring
Offering job shadowing
Offering introduction and networking
Seeking interns
Offering informational interviews
Check it out at xbhs.alumnifire.com and see how the numbers have grown since.
CALLING ALL ALUMNI PARENTS The friendships formed with other parents during your son’s time at Xaverian do not end on graduation day. There is still a whole community here for you via the Alumni Parents Council. Join
us for special events throughout the year, like our Wine & Beer
Tasting and our dedicated days of service. Keep your eye out for email invitations to 2019-2020 special events. Learn more at
www.xbhs.com/alumni-parents-council.
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CLASS NOTES Speaker Series Alumni
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he Alumni Speaker Series, which launched last spring as a joint collaboration between Xaverian’s school counseling office and alumni office, continued with great success this year. This program is designed to connect experienced professionals with curious sophomore and junior Hawks over an informal lunchtime meeting. A very special thank you to the following alumni who volunteered their time this year to inspire Xaverian students: Cory Absi ’10, Manufacturing Engineer with Bluefin Robotics – General Dynamics Mission Systems Dan Cummings ’99, President and Founder of Journey Forward Peter Dolan ’09, Business Operations Manager for AtScale John Fisher ’09, Systems Engineer with Bluefin Robotics – General Dynamics Mission Systems Ben Langhauser ’09, Safety Officer at Ambri Andrew Munchbach ’01, Engineer at CrowdStrike Joe Murphy ’94, Founder of On Deck Sports Joe Serra ’06, Lead Producer of Integrated Production for Kronos’ Internal Creative Agency If you would like to participate as one of our alumni speakers, please contact Chuck Carmone ’85, P ’16, Director of Alumni, at ccarmone@xbhs.com or 781-801-1621.
CLASS NOTES CLASS OF 2011
CLASS AGENTS: Andrew Griffin, Cory Hodson, Trevor Larrubia, Mack Lewis, Chris Roche Chase Carberry is a group sales manager at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club. Kevin Curran recently accepted a Fulbright grant to study in the Czech Republic, beginning in September. He will be studying international politics with a specific focus on private media ownership and its impact on the post-communist political sphere. Until that time, Kevin will continue his work as the “Stock of the Day” reporter for Jim Cramer at TheStreet. Jack Drew is an investment banking associate at Stifel Financial Corporation. John McInerney is an internal investment consultant at Allianz Global Investors.
Pictured here, l to r, are John Fisher ’09, Cory Absi ’10, and Ben Langhauser ’09.
CLASS OF 2012 CLASS AGENTS: Mike Hagerty, Tyler Hogan, Anif McDonald, Cam O’Grady, Matt C. Stapleton, Matt P. Stapleton Lucas Barrett is the product manager at CardioFocus, Inc. Jon Bie is an associate product manager at Uline. Christopher Calvanese is a sales development representative at Smartsheet. Peter Cordova is an assembly technician at MedMinder. Andrew Hickey is an information systems operations analyst at Ipswitch, Inc. Alex Lentoni is engaged to Niki Papadopoulos. They anticipate a summer 2020 wedding. Warren Phillips recently joined the Abington Police Department as a reserve officer. He is a graduate of St. Anselm’s College and resides in Holbrook.
CLASS OF 2013
Harrison Pidgeon graduated from Rush Medical College in Chicago this year. He will be starting a residency in emergency medicine at Rush University Medical Center in July.
CLASS AGENTS: Steve Cesso, Kevin Conley, Geoff Martello, Matt Schamber, Mike Sennott
Chris Pond is a police officer with the Braintree Police Department.
Will Carroll is an associate planner at the TJX Companies, Inc.
Chris Tamasi is a mid-market account executive for Learning Solutions. He resides in New York City.
Jim Coughlin graduated with an MBA from the Providence College School of Business in May 2018.
Brendan Carchidi is a program officer at SANAD for Peacebuilding. He resides in Iraq.
Dominic Ferrara is enrolled in a Ph.D. program at Boston College.
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Class of 2013 Conor Glasheen accepted a new position working in Governor Charlie Baker’s executive office as of February 2019. Conor is part of the team that advises the Governor and his senior staff regarding the filling of all vacant management level positions across the Commonwealth, as well as vetting the Governor’s appointees to various boards and commissions. Eddie Hanlon is a senior analyst at Health Advances. Mike Sennott is a global project and change coordinator at Boston Consulting Group.
CLASS OF 2014 CLASS AGENTS: Jake Diehl, Pat Horne, Joe Imbriani, Amir McDonald, Joey Motchok, Patrick Nicholson
Matt Balzano is a hospitality agent at Sonder. John Conroy is a trade entry specialist with Brown Brothers Harriman in Boston. Shane Faherty is a billing specialist at Mercy Health in Cincinnati, Ohio. Teddy Fisher graduated summa cum laude with a degree in behavioral neuroscience from the University of San Diego in May of 2018. He was fortunate to be hired right out of college at the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute in La Jolla, California as a research assistant in the pediatric brain tumor study. Teddy is looking to enter a Ph.D. program in a couple of years. Kevin Horne is a business-to-business account manager at Wayfair. Joe Imbriani is a tax associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Boston. He resides in Hingham. Connor McCarthy is a business development representative at Fairmarkit. He resides in Weymouth.
Class of 2015 Joe Gaziano finished his junior year at Northwestern and was honored with an All-Big Ten selection in football for the second consecutive season. The defensive end had 7.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. Pictured here, Joe holds up the Land of Lincoln Trophy, given annually to the winner of the Northwestern/Illinois game. Northwestern has won it every year since Joe has been there.
Liam McMullen is currently a firefighter and EMT for the Hyannis Fire Department. He formerly worked at the Bourne Fire Department after graduating from Mass Maritime Academy. Nick Mecsas-Faxon is currently studying at Georgetown Law School. Peter Roche is a sales executive in managed risk services for FIS. He resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
2015
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Save the Date: June 13 – Reunion 2020
CLASS OF 2015
CLASS AGENTS: Pat Dolan, Mike Fahy, Jake Farrell, Matt Greeley, Alex Miller, Ryan Plunkett, Brian Thomas Matt Arsenault is a government relations intern for Ventry Associates.
Class of 2015 Sam Scanlon and the Providence College hockey team after winning the NCAA East Regional championship this past March.
Zach Castagnola is a digital media intern at Gupta Media.
Evan Wilkinson is a wealth management summer analyst at JP Morgan Chase & Company.
Jarad Maher is still selling real estate around greater Boston with Keller Williams Realty.
CLASS OF 2017
Gian Martini graduated from McGill University this spring, with a double major in political science and classics. He plans to take a year off from school and then pursue an advanced degree in archaeology. Gian spent most of last summer working on a dig in Italy and found inspiration. Tyler Sylvia is a research fellow at Quinnipiac University.
Class of 2015 David O’Dea and Ryan Plunkett recently reunited as their teams played each other at the 2019 Ultimate Easterns Tournament in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. David went on to Carleton College in Minnesota, and he and his team won the college national championship in 2017. Ryan made Harvard’s team, Red Line, and has competed and represented Harvard Ultimate for the past four years.
CLASS AGENT: Mike Stone Mack Baratta is attending Stonehill College to study healthcare management. Randy del Aguila has recently been accepted to conduct pediatric epilepsy research at Boston Children’s Hospital for the summer. He resides in Holbrook.
CLASS OF 2016
JT McCluskey transferred to Hofstra University in the fall of 2018.
CLASS AGENTS: JohnPaul Bettinelli, Jack Carmone, Billy Lahart, Kerim Saraoglu
CLASS OF 2018
Craig Crossley is an injection molding intern at Trexel, Inc. Patrick Roy is a premium audit intern at A.I.M. Mutual.
Braden Spolidoro has started his own business. He is currently the president of JB’s Auto Detailing, based out of Franklin.
Greg Wakely is a pricing and proposal summer analyst at Mathematica Policy Research.
Summer 2019
Xaverian Magazine
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In Memoriam We regret to inform you of the passing of these beloved classmates, friends, and family members. Mission Church High School Alumni Pauline Brooks Freeley ’51 Mother of Ted Freeley ’75, Robert Freeley ’79, and Paul Freeley ’85, and wife of former Trustee Ed Freeley
James Kaszanek ’58 Joseph Kenneally ’51
Roseleen Catalano
Veronica McDonough
Helen Gaughran
Mother of Matt Catalano ’85 and grandmother of Benjamin Alfond ’20
Grandmother of Griffin Tarmy ’15
Grandmother of Brett Gaughran ’20 and Colin Gaughran ’21
Grace Cato
Grandmother of Brendan Gaffney ’99, Kevin Hilson ’02, Jim Hilson ’04, and Brad Hilson ’08
Robert Ivatts
Zach Parsons
Grandfather of Liam Polles ’21 and Brendan Polles ’21
Mother of Lamont Cato ’85, grandmother of Renard Cato ’95, and aunt of Dana Barros ’85
Franklin Curtis
Faith McEleney
Brother of C.J. Parsons ’09 and Joey Parsons ’15
Husband of Rita Kenneally ’58 Brother of Thomas Kenneally ’53
Brother-in-law of Mathematics Department Chair, Denis Smith ’67, and William MacDougall ’73
Rita Kenneally ’58
Martin Feeney
Grandfather of Chris Wagner ’09 and Paul Wagner ’12
Wife of Joseph Kenneally ’51 Sister-in-law of Thomas Kenneally ’53
Father of Marty Feeney ’89, Dan Feeney ’90, and Sean Feeney ’96
Harry Primrose
Charles Long ’38
John J. Forte
Joseph A. Powers ’56
Father of John Forte, Jr. ’76, Stephen Forte ’80, and Christopher Forte ’83, and grandfather of Ryan Forte ’10
Joseph P. Ryan ’44 John Weiss ’58 Father of John Weiss ’82 and Thomas Weiss ’85, uncle of Peter Weiss ’73, Paul Weiss ’82, and Trustee Ed Weiss ’84, and great uncle of Patricia Weiss ’00
Xaverian Alumni Brent Gordon ’68 Brother of Bruce Gordon ’68
Robert J. McGowan ’69 Brother of Jerry McGowan ’67, Rich McGowan ’73, and Steve McGowan ’73
Thomas A. Wall ’69 Brother of Richard Wall ’67
George T. Wilkinson ’74 Brother of Geoffrey Wilkinson ’69
Gerry Zitoli ’74 Brother of Paul Zitoli ’75
Relatives of Xaverian Alumni James Boutin Brother of John Boutin ’70
Donald Canniff Father of Xaverian receptionist Kerryanne Diehl, father-in-law of Chris Diehl ’79, and grandfather of Chris Diehl ’12 and Jacob Diehl ’14
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Paul Friedman Father of Matthew Friedman ’07 and Michael Friedman ’15
Roland Gaudette Grandfather of John Murphy ’03 and father-in-law of Board of Trustees Chairman, John Murphy ’70
James Phelan
Great-grandfather of Tyler Ellis ’18 and Drew Ellis ’21
Robert Roy Grandfather of Patrick Roy ’16 and Emmett Roy ’20
Grandfather of Trevor Ivatts ’20
Edward McCarthy
Abbott Miller Grandfather of Julian Miller ’20
Marilyn Milliken Grandmother of Timothy Bobroff ’23
Elizabeth Rice Mother of John Rice ’13 and Nick Rice ’20
David Rowley Grandfather of Brendan Colin ’22
Christina M. Salachi
Elvira Taranto
Grandmother of Adam Salachi ’18 and mother of Xaverian’s Library Director, Alex Salachi
Grandmother of Sam Gelso ’19 and Philip Gelso ’21
James Scannell
Grandmother of Christian Farmer ’24
Ellen Theresa Wade Bernadette Wilczynski
Grandfather of Andrew Houley ’08
Grandfather of Joe Scannell ’18 and father-in-law of Xaverian’s Client Technologies Administrator, Erica Scannell
Raymond Hoyt
Paul Scholl
Father of Russell Hoyt of our Maintenance Department and the late Brother Raymond Hoyt, C.F.X. ’70, and grandfather of the late Chris Hoyt ’12
Uncle of Jim Scholl ’03 and John Scholl ’08
Relatives of Xaverian Faculty and Staff
Sam Giordano
Ferdinand Kral Father of Joe Kral ’85
Grandmother of Kaden Ciesielski ’22
Lawrence Tobin
Annette Gill
Cousin of Joe MacKinnon ’84 and Kyle Corcoran ’24
Grandmother of Campus Minister Bob Gill
Peter Weiss
Former Faculty and Staff
Uncle of Bill O’Donnell ’78
Father of Peter Weiss ’73, Paul Weiss ’82, and Trustee Ed Weiss ’84, grandfather of Patricia Weiss ’00, uncle of John Weiss ’82, brother of John Weiss, MH ’58, and brother-inlaw of Chester MacDonald, MH ’58
Ronald MacDougall
Mary Catherine Wilkinson
Husband of Cynthia Rochon MacDougall, MH ’51, and grandfather of Eamon Kenney ’22, Andrew Murphy ’03, and Luke Winston ’08
Grandmother of JP Wilkinson ’10 and Evan Wilkinson ’16, and mother-inlaw of former staff assistant, Trish Wilkinson
Friends of Xaverian
Cathleen Kral Mother of Joe Kral ’85
Raymond Lane
Thomas Markt Father of David Markt ’90
William McCorkle Father of Bill McCorkle ’85, John McCorkle ’87, and Jim McCorkle ’87
Relatives of Xaverian Students Lawrence J. Furey Grandfather of Tim Furey ’21 and father of Assistant Headmaster for Advancement, Larry Furey
Frank McGurl Advancement and Business Office Colleague
Perry Sangalli Former Chairman of Xaverian’s Board of Trustees, President of St. Xavier High School, Louisville, Kentucky
Legacies Matter
Joe Imbriani, Jr. ’14, Ed Weiss ’84, Sean Fahy ’81, P ’15, Jake Conca ’94, Jay Driscoll ’76, Joe Imbriani ’85, P ’14, Ted Ristaino ’69, Rick Spillane ’68, Ned Kennedy ’67, Brother Daniel Skala, Tim Gavin ’94, P ’24, Larry Furey P ’21, Michael Kennedy ’81, Gene Mahoney ’76, P ’16, Mary Beth Martin, Steve Kern ’82, P ’15, ’21, and Chuck Carmone ’85, P ’16
A
SPECIAL THANK YOU to Ed Weiss ’84, Executive Vice President, Corporate Strategy & General Counsel, Fenway Sports Group; Patti
Martin, P ’20, Partner, Seegel Lipshutz & Lo, LLP; Joe Imbriani ’85, P ’14, Partner, Taylor, Ganson & Perrin, LLP; and Mary Beth Martin, Esq., Senior Managing Director, Changing Our World, Inc., for making Xaverian’s Brother Marcellus Society Planned Giving Breakfast possible. On March 27, Ed Weiss opened up Fenway Park for Xaverian for this special event.
BECOME A MEMBER THE BROTHER MARCELLUS SOCIETY is named for the first principal of Xaverian Brothers High School, honoring a man whose life as a Xaverian Brother demonstrated his commitment to educational excellence in the Catholic tradition. The Society is composed of individuals and families who have included Xaverian in their estate plans or have named Xaverian as a beneficiary in a charitable gift arrangement.
Approximately 20 guests joined Ed and Xaverian’s Planned
If you have already named Xaverian as a beneficiary in your
Giving Committee to learn how legacies matter at both
plans, we again welcome you to the Brother Marcellus Society.
Xaverian and at Fenway Park. They enjoyed breakfast, a panel
As a member of the Society, you exemplify exceptional
discussion about the importance of planned giving, and a
commitment to and faith in Xaverian. This will have a direct
behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic ballpark (including a trip
impact on generations of future Xaverian students.
behind the scoreboard and a tour of the rooftop garden).
If you would like to learn more about planned giving and the Brother Marcellus Society, please visit plannedgiving.xbhs.com or contact Mr. Larry Furey, P ’21, Assistant Headmaster for Advancement, at lfurey@xbhs.com.
Xaverian Brothers High School 800 Clapboardtree Street Westwood, MA 02090
Parents, if your son has finished college and you are receiving his Xaverian Magazine at your home, please notify the advancement office of his change of address so the magazine can be sent directly to him. Call 781-326-6392, ext. 6607 or email doconnor@xbhs.com.
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
A SONG CALLED
BROKEN
When four unlikely friends come together to collaborate
on a creative initiative, the results are inspiring. Check out page 4 for the full story on how a song called “Broken� united Teagan, Justin, Dimitri, and Kyron.
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 8 North Reading, MA