Xavier High School Foundation
June 2012
Record Turnout at Third Annual Mass for Grandparents Nearly 300 grandparents gathered at Xavier High School on April 11 for a Mass and celebration in their honor. The annual event was started in 2010 as a time to recognize the Christian vocation of being a grandparent and to honor these special individuals as the critical link between the promise of the future and the wisdom of the past.
Do You Need a Will? Many people, especially young individuals and those who feel that their estate is too small, believe that a will represents an unnecessary expense. But, you need a plan for the future and the preparation of a will need not be expensive. Even if you don’t own a lot of property, a will is needed to make other important decisions: • Naming an executor • Making gifts or transfers • Naming a legal guardian for minors • Reducing estate tax liability Without a will a judge will name an executor, the court will name a guardian for children and a formula will determine asset distribution.
The Charitable Bequest
When drafting your will, the charitable bequest is one of the best ways for you to express your specific philanthropic goals. In fact, the bequest is the most frequently utilized method to support charity in America.
Options for your bequest to charity:
“We are leaving the world in good hands – and that’s because of you.” - Fr. Phil Thompson Fr. Phil Thompson, Pastor of St. Pius X and Xavier High School Pastoral Coordinator, noted the important role grandparents play in today’s society, including the important and necessary role of spiritual guide. “You (grandparents), nurture faith in your grandchildren by sharing your wisdom, your values, and the things you treasure in life. You are training these young people for their future.” Thompson went on to describe how the relationship and bond grandparents often forge with their grandchildren provides a unique opportunity for teaching the young people of today to value their faith. Thompson closed by saying, “We are leaving the world in good hands – and that’s because of you.”
• A specific dollar amount • A percentage of the estate • Specific assets
Your gift is important to us! While many may think philanthropy is reserved for a select few, the truth is that every bequest to the Xavier Foundation helps us provide an excellent education in a faith-filled environment for generations of students. If you would like more information on wills including sample language for making a charitable bequest, please contact Jody Ruff at jruff@xavierfoundation.org or (319) 378-4571.
Coming to Your Parish in September: Xavier Foundation 2012 Parish Appeal September 22 & 23 and September 29 & 30
New Leadership for Alumni Board The LaSalle - Regis - Xavier Alumni Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Ryan Charkowski (R90) will assume the role of President for the 2012-2013 term. Charkowski replaces Angie (Pernicone) Charipar (R90) who served as president for three years. Charipar will remain on the board. Charkowski will lead fellow board members Barry A’Hearn (R97), Josh Barta (L98), Joe Behmer (X99), Jerica Christensen (X10), Katie (Mills) Giorgio (X99), Erin Gray (R96), Tori (Pilcher) Haefner (R92), Debbie (Miller) Jacobs (R69), Brad Joens (R96), Tim Leuck (R94), Roberto Pino (X99), and, Michelle (Hostak) Waldron (L91).
Alumni Appeal 2012
The 2012 Annual Alumni Appeal has raised $73,400 and counting! Forming a new partnership with Cedar Rapids based marketing and software company RuffaloCody, the Xavier Foundation worked to invite as many LaSalle, Regis and Xavier alumni as possible to support Xavier students this year. RuffaloCody provided a team of callers who called more than 7,300 alumni during this spring. A philanthropic alumnus generously offered to cover all expenses of the Alumni Appeal, ensuring 100% of the money donated by alumni will provide direct support for our school and our students.
Have you Moved?
Do us a favor and provide us with your new address so that we can continue to mail you our publications! LaSalle, Regis, and Xavier alumni are also encouraged to share personal or professional updates to be included in the Alumni News section of the Common Thread. E-mail updates to development@xavierfoundation. org or call 319-378-4571.
Reunions
It is not too late to make your gift! Please join your fellow alumni and make your secure online donation now at www.xavierfoundation.org.
LaSalle 1972: Contact Nancy Barta at: nan@saddleandleathershop.com
Successful Business Appeal
Regis 1982: Contact Steve Thompson at: sathompson75@hotmail.com
More than 200 area businesses demonstrated their support of Xavier High School during the 2012 Business Appeal. Under the leadership of Heidi Brown, community volunteer and former Deputy Administrative Officer for the United States Attorney’s office and Donna Garland, Nesper Sign, seventy-four volunteers visited local businesses to share Xavier’s story and request financial support. We are pleased to announce we have raised more than $107,000 to date. A business donor list will be posted on our website, and a printed list will be included in the Cedar Rapids metro area parish bulletins, as well as The Gazette. The Xavier community is grateful to all who support our school.
Regis 1962: Contact Doug Anderson
Regis 1992: October 5-6, 2012. Contact Tori Pilcher Haefner at: mthaefner@msn.com Xavier Class of 2002: July 21 at the Kernels Stadium. Contact Katie Bellendier for more information. Xavier 2007: Contact Mary Hanley at: mc4hanley@gmail.com Xavier Homecoming 2012: October 5, 2012. Xavier vs. Iowa City High.
My life first moved into a classroom in the fall of 1954 when I entered kindergarten. I’m sure that that was a daunting day for me, as I must have realized then that there was so much that I did not know yet and so much more that I truly wanted to know. Ironically, over these past 58 autumns, I have had that same basic thought again and again; the only difference has been that every year I have felt a little more daunted than previously, due to my ever-growing realization of just how much I really do not know and how much more there is that I want to learn. Well, those classrooms always provided me with the stimulation to think about the world in ways that I could not have generated on my own. On a daily basis my classmates, my teachers and, later, my students (as well as the literature and other academic materials, of course) demonstrated the variety—sometimes the simplicity, sometimes the complexity; sometimes the silliness, other times the tragedy—of the human experience in this world. So, as you can see, every classroom has been a very interesting as well as important place for me to be. Now, as I look back on these nearly six decades in classrooms, I am intensely aware of the people who have mentored me, some of whom have become treasured friends: There are my teachers and fellow students, of course, those who guided and accompanied me through the levels of formal schooling, helping me to learn, then hone the academic and social skills that I rely on every day; And there are the hundreds of colleagues in the eight schools in which I have taught, who have helped to mold me into the teacher that I have become. Many of these educators have inspired me
through their passion, their creativity, their scholarship and their unwavering dedication to the goodness of their students and the nobility of our profession. Certainly there are the parents who have entrusted their children to me, expecting—and rightly so—that the months that their students spend in my classroom will be beneficial both academically and personally; also, through their examples, I have learned to parent my own children. Finally, there are the thousands of students, ranging in age from 10 through 22, in grades five through college sophomore and hailing from the inner-cities of Los Angeles, the small towns of Iowa, and the metropolitan area of Cedar Rapids. From these people I have learned the most important lessons: • Everyone is in transition, including me. • Maturity happens in its own time, and is not particularly age-related. • Second chances are not gifts, but necessities. • The most important work of a teacher is to help students learn what they need to learn, not necessarily what the teacher wants to teach. • A classroom without purpose, structure, laughter, forgiveness and hope is a place that no one deserves to be. I have one closing thought: Teaching in a Catholic school has been a vital part of my ministry as a teacher because our faith and the community of faith which we strive to create have added a spiritual perspective and a moral depth to my work. These are qualities that I could not have infused into lessons elsewhere, but they have been essential to my efforts to help my students learn to live whole lives both inside and outside of their classrooms. - By Mr. Dennis Ferguson
Reflections on Life
Spent in a Classroom
Mr. Ferguson retired at the end of the 2011-2012 school year after 40 years of teaching. The last 33 have been at Regis (19), and Xavier (14).
Memorial Donations One way to support the Xavier Foundation is through memorial giving. It allows you to honor friends or family, living or deceased, while helping support Catholic education.
Congratulations Xavier Class of 2012!
On May 20, 2012 school board president Jeff Hanson awarded diplomas to 157 graduates from the Xavier High School Class of 2012. Graduation speaker Mary Levett began the address to her classmates by sharing a quote her mom has framed in their family home: “There are two lasting bequests we can give our children, one is roots the other wings.” I cannot think of a better way to explain this quote than to relate it to our school, Xavier.”
faith we have been a part of will stay with us throughout the years. Although we may encounter our own bad weather in the future and the leaves that make up our lives may change colors from time to time, we will always have our Xavier roots to keep us grounded.” The commencement speech can be found in its entirety at www.xavierfoundation.org.
“We will always have our Xavier roots to keep us grounded.”
Levett went on to say, “Just like a mature tree, the roots are firmly planted anchoring the tree for centuries. It doesn’t matter how many storms pass through or how many times the leaves change colors and fall, the roots will not be changed. They will only grow stronger and deeper. Just like a tree, the roots that Xavier has given us cannot be erased. The lessons we have learned, the morals we have developed, and the
After Levett’s address, Principal Keating presented Joseph Pape as the Salutatorian and Megan Reiman as the Valedictorian of the Xavier Class of 2012.
Prior to graduation, at the Honors Assembly held on May 15, the following awards were presented: The City of God Award for Active Involvement in Parish to Mrs. Sue May and Jackson Daubitz; Xavier High School Hall of Fame to Nicholas Ball, Kelly Biermann, Jackson Esker, Mary Levett, and Hannah Rochford; and the Xavier High School “Light of the World” award to Kelly Biermann.
Xavier Students Lead Habitat for Humanity Effort This summer, several Xavier students will be working on a project to help make a difference in the life of a local family. Xavier, along with other schools and youth groups throughout the Cedar Rapids area, will be teaming up with Habitat for Humanity and Youth United to build a house for an underprivileged family.
The project, called a youth build, will be supervised by Habitat’s employees, but the majority of the work is to be done by the students. Kurt Warner, retired NFL player, philanthropist, and Regis 1989 graduate, is sponsoring the build.
If you would like to include a friend or family member in the program, use the form below or print one from the Foundation’s website at www.xavierfoundation.org
Memorial Donation Enclosed is my gift to the Xavier Foundation In Memory of: ______________________________ who will be remembered at an annual Mass celebrated by the Xavier High School community. Requested by: _____________________________ _____________________________ Address: _____________________________ _____________________________ Amount: _________________ Please send an acknowledgement to: Name: _____________________________ Address: _____________________________ _____________________________ Please print this form and return it with your contribution to: The Xavier Foundation P.O. Box 10956 Cedar Rapids, IA 52410-0956
Andrew Kidd (X01) Designing a Future of His Own Andrew Kidd has his hand in the food industry, but he couldn’t be farther from the kitchen. Kidd’s love of drawing and design goes back as far as he can remember, and only intensified during his art classes at Xavier. During his senior year, he decided the creative freedom offered in the field of graphic design would be an excellent fit for him. After graduating from Xavier in 2001 Kidd went on to earn an Associate degree in Graphic Communication Technology from Kirkwood Community College and settled into a job as an artist for Cedar Rapids based businesses A-1 Screenprinting and Fast Signs.
After finding himself constantly critiquing restaurant menus and food packaging labels, Kidd knew he’d really found his niche. Kidd Graphic Design was established in 2004 and is focused on serving the food and beverage industry by using the power of strategic graphic design to showcase a product or service. Projects range from restaurant logos and menus to food packaging and beer labels. Among Kidd’s long list of clients is Midamar Corporation; a leading USA based Halal food brand and global supply chain management company serving the Middle East, Asia, and North America. Kidd also designs the labeling for the oldest Iowabased craft brewery, Millstream Brewing.
In addition to his work with the food and beverage industry, Kidd volunteers his time and talent to the American Heart Association by providing invitations, programs and all printed material for their annual Heart Ball. Kidd notes that knowing his work supports the American Heart Association’s mission to “build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke,” is an excellent feeling. Kidd admits that starting his own business has had its share of rewards and challenges; flexibility tempered with a mountain of responsibilities, but ultimately the ability to follow his passion.
Alumni News LaSalle - Regis - Xavier Colonel Timon Oujiri (L76) retired from the U.S. Army on December 31, 2011, after 31 years of service. Oujiri’s last post was at the United States Pentagon.
Jeffrey Vecellio (R92) and Hope Hillock were united in marriage in Chicago IL on November 5, 2011. Jeff works for a financial services software developer. Charlie Schimberg (R94) and Lisa (Rupp) Schimberg (R96) welcomed a son, Charles Christopher, on December 28, 2011. Charles is welcomed by his big brothers, Jack (4), and Sam (3). Barry Wilken (R96) and Amy Murphy, of Nashville, TN, were united in marriage on July 2, 2011 in Harrisburg, IL. Barry earned his BS with a major in Actuarial Science from the University of Iowa in 2000. He is a Senior Actuarial Analyst, Willis Casulaty Actuarial Practice, Willis Group in Nashville.
Ryan Hays (X02) and Martha Trejo were united in marriage on July 14, 2011 in Huatulco, Mexico.
Emily Roling (X02) and Anthony Zingale were united in marriage on October 15, 2011. The couple reside in Des Moines, IA. Katharine Maloney (X03) and Scott Special were united in marriage on May 28, 2011 at Saint Patrick Catholic Church in Fairfax, IA. Kate is an Account Executive at the Game Show Network in Chicago, where the the couple reside. Alissa Gothard (X04) and Matthew Kruger were united in marriage on October 8, 2011 in Chicago, IL where they reside. Kristen Jasiewicz (X05) and Brian Dolder were united in marriage on July 30, 2011 at All Saints Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids. The couple reside in Schaumburg, IL.
Matthew Williams (L96) and Abigale Rohrer were united in marriage on August 26, 2011 in Cedar Falls, IA. Matthew is a Safety Manager for John Deere. The couple resides in Sioux Falls, SD.
Aaron Junge (X08) completed a degree in philosophy from Loras College in Dubuque, IA. He will now attend major seminary at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL.
Barbara Brunow (R98) and David Sullivan (L89) were united in marriage on December 31, 2011 at Blessed John XXIII Church in Fairfax, IA. Barbara teaches Theology and is the head volleyball coach at Xavier. David teaches Science and coaches football and girls basketball at Xavier.
Lance Rozeboom (X08) was taken in the second round of the MLS draft. He’s believed to be the first former Metro prep to be drafted and make it to the MLS. Rozeboom was also named NSCAA All-American Second Team; AllMountain Pacific Sports Federation First Team in 2011.
Amanda Smith (R98) and Andrew Knee were united in marriage on October 1, 2011 at Blessed John XXIII Church in Fairfax, IA. The couple resides in Portland, OR.
Charlie Bales (X10) is the recipient of the following awards (for soccer): 1st Team All Summit league, Summit League Defensive Player of the Year, Summit League All-Tournament Team, Summit League Tournament MVP, and NCAA Men’s D1 All-Midwest 2nd Team. Bales is a student at Western Illinois University.
Nikki O’Neil (X99) and Dave Venouziou were united in marriage on August 20, 2011 in Malibu. The couple reside in Chicago, IL.
Matthew Prane (X01) was commissioned as an officer in the United States Marine Corps on December 17, 2011 after graduating from ISU with honors in business management and marketing. 2LT Prane enlisted in 2003 as a combat engineer and was deployed to Fallujah, Iraq on the 31st MEU with 1st Battalikon 34d Marines to take part in Operation Phantom Fury from 2004-2005 and later was accepted for the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program. Prane is beginning a new venture called Phantom Metal Drums. His mission is to help improve the quality of life for everyone in need through music appreciation of his one-of-a-kind drum. In addition, the project will help create job opportunities for veterans and a percentage of proceeds will be given to help wounded vets. Learn more at www.phantommetaldrums.com/tank-drums.htm Matt and his wife, Ann (Brunson) (X01) have two sons, Daniel (4) and Jacob (1). The family is in the process of relocating from Ames, IA to Quantico, Virginia where Matt will attend The Basic School for Officers.
We Remember Alumni & Friends
Judith Kelly (R59) died February 5, 2012. Judy is survived by her four children, Linda Alemania, Michael Hute, Mary Martinez, and Matthew Hute; and her sister, Carol Whitters. Judith Spitzenberger (R59), of Cedar Rapids, died March 17, 2012. Mary Elizabeth “Liz” (Martinson) Schroeder (R62) died February 24, 2012. Liz is survived by her husband of 43 years, Dr. Bill; children Sara and Seth; siblings Jim, Bill (R64), and John Martinson and Marlene Kleinick. Linda (McCallum) Carr (R65), of Cedar Rapids, died February 12, 2012. Linda is survivd by two daughters, Teri Shellenberger and Tami Hamlin; two brothers, David (R67) and Douglas McCallum; and one sister, Recbecca McCallum (R71). Jeanne (Corrigan) Shields (L74) of Cedar Rapids, died January 4, 2012. Jeanne is survived by a son, Brandon; her mother, Fern Corrigan; her brothers and sisters, Rae Lesmeister (L72), Mark Corrigan (L77), Dolora Michael (L77), Denise Bates (L79), Loren Corrigan (L81), Brian Corrigan (L83), Deborah Corrigan (L84), and Alane Wessels (L87). Mary (Severa ) Smalley (R75) of North Liberty, IA died January 7, 2012. Mary is survived by her sons, Brandon and Ryan Smalley; her sisters, Nancy Zimmers (R67), Sidney Lutz (R69), Sara Tack (R78), and Stacy Martin (R79). David May (R80), of Cedar Rapids, died March 16, 2012. David is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth; mother, Mary; siblings Edward (R70), Colette Vincent, Celeste (May) Williams (R76), and Christopher (R77). James R. “J.R.” Jensen (R83), of DeKalb, Ill., died March 16, 2012. J.R. is survived by his wife, Jamie; his children, Anna, Hunter, and Wesley; his mother, Loretta; his brothers and sister, Jay (R74), Jon (R78), Joan (Jensen) Dvorak (R73), and Joel Jensen (R80). Duane “D.J.” Arnold (R92), of Cedar Rapids, died February 28, 2012. D.J. is survived by his wife, Kathy; daughter, Hannah; son, Ryan; mother, Colleen; brothers, Stephen and Kevin; and sisters, Brigid and Abby.
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Cedar Rapids IA Permit No. 353
P.O. Box 10956 Cedar Rapids, IA 52410-0956
Return Service Requested Parents: If this issue of the Common Thread is addressed to your son or daughter who has established a permanent residence, please notify us of that new address. Call (319) 378-4571 or e-mail development@xavierfoundation.org
Jody Ruff
Executive Director
Lynn Jump
Annual Fund Director
Jessica Schneider
Dir. Marketing & Alumni Relations p: 319.378.4571 f: 319.378.2953 e: development@xavierfoundation.org w: www.xavierfoundation.org
Board of Directors Officers
Most. Rev. Jerome Hanus, OSB, STL William McCartan Brenda Clancy Conrad Baumler Rev. Philip Thompson Jody Ruff
Members
Gary Becker Ellen Bouchard Michele Busse John Cleavenger Tom Hoffmann Tom Keating Dan Lynch Joe Schimberg Cynthia Sueppel
Board Emeritus Michael Stallman Gary Streit
Alumni Legacy Display Each spring, a display honoring families who have been a part of LaSalle, Regis, and Xavier for generations is posted. The display demonstrates the family commitment to Catholic education and the rich history from which Xavier High School was developed. The display can also be viewed in the hallway across from the trophy cases at Xavier High School. View the virtual display at www.xavierfoundation.org