CONTENTS 2-7
Who We Are
8-15 Alumni 16-19 Advancement 20
XCS Staff
22-25 High School 26 Christmas Stars 28-31 Middle School 32
Alumni Feature
34-37 Elementary School 38
Service
From left to right: Mark Richey ‘23- German State Speaking contest winner; Maggie Parks ’18- Salutatorian; Catie Pow Carrie Schwarz ‘22- An Gerhman Musicianship Award; Kate Jannette ‘26- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. essay cont
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dear Friends,
Welcome to the Summer issue of the Xavier Magazine! During the summer holiday, it’s nice to be able to step back, take a deep breath, and appreciate the true meaning of why we are on this earth.
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Xavier Catholic Schools exist to create missionary disciples. Young men and women who will change the world around them. A world that might include business, law, medicine, education, the trades, technology, the military, priesthood or the religious life. When we look for ways to gauge the effectiveness of what we do, the answer is simple: We don’t look at test scores or athletic championships. We gauge success by what our graduates are doing ten years after they leave our buildings.
X, The Xavier Magazine
• Summer 2018
wer ’26- 2nd place Catholic Daughters of the Americas poetry contest; David Horak ‘18- qualified for state tennis team doubles; Molly Schmidt ‘27- organized a baby item drive; test winner; Konnor Barth ’18- qualified for state tennis team doubles; Elise Curtin ’18- Valedictorian; Adam Michels ‘25- World Qualifier Excellence Award VEX Robotics
Recently, one of our high school teachers asked former students to let her know what they’ve been up to since graduation. As I scrolled through more than 85 Facebook posts, the information was eye-opening. These former students have continued to grow into some pretty amazing young men and women. I’d venture to say that this metamorphosis didn’t happen overnight, or even in high school and college. What they’ve become is a testament to the love, care, and attention each one of them received from preschool through high school. The elementary teacher who taught them that math could be fun! The middle school guidance counselor who walked them through the minefield called “pre-adolescence.” The high school English teacher who ignited in them a passion to read, write, and think about their responsibility to become a global citizen in a fast-changing world. There are so many alumni who help shape our future and we are proud we played a role in their lives. Enjoy this issue of the Xavier Magazine – and send us your feedback. Let’s continue to pray for each other and the St. Francis Xavier Catholic School System. As together we build…faith in our future.
Deacon Ray DuBois President
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St. Francis Xavier School System Mission Statement St. Francis Xavier Catholic School System is a Christ-centered community dedicated to faith formation, academic excellence, community engagement, and individual growth of our students in a safe environment.
Campuses St. Francis Xavier High School 1600 W. Prospect Avenue Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 733-6632 St. Francis Xavier Middle School 2626 N. Oneida Street Appleton, WI 54911 (920) 730-8849 St. Francis Xavier Elementary School Marquette 500 W. Marquette Street Appleton, WI 54911 (920) 733-4918 St. Francis Xavier Elementary School McDonald 1810 N. McDonald Street Appleton, WI 54911 (920) 739-7826 Offices of the President, Advancement, and Admissions 1600 W. Prospect Avenue Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 735-9380 Finance Administration and Educational Services 101 E. Northland Avenue Appleton, WI 54911 (920) 735-9380
System Administration Deacon Ray DuBois President Mr. Bob Biebel Vice President of Advancement Mr. Tom Candell Vice President of Finance and Administration Mrs. Tara Pearce Vice President of Admissions Dr. John Ravizza Superintendent Mr. Mike Mauthe Principal Xavier High School Mrs. Fran Peter Associate Principal Xavier High School Mr. Robert Bires Principal Xavier Middle School Mrs. Sara Meyer Associate Principal Xavier Middle School Mrs. Laura Barnett Principal Xavier Elementary School, Marquette Campus Mrs. Alena Tapelt Principal Xavier Elementary School, McDonald Campus
Contact the Advancement Office for magazine submissions and alumni corrections. (920) 735-9380 or xmagazine@xaviercatholicschools.org
Bob Biebel, Vice President of Advancement Lisa Pfaff, Director of Alumni Relations & Special Events Stephanie Zinser, Advancement Operations Coordinator
Board of Directors Most Reverend David L. Ricken Chairman, Diocese of Green Bay Very Reverend Daniel Felton Vice-Chairman, Diocese of Green Bay Todd Blahnik Diocese of Green Bay Reverend James Jugenheimer St. Pius X Parish Reverend James Leary, OFM Cap. St. Joseph Parish Very Reverend James Lucas St. Thomas More Parish Reverend Amal Roche St. Bernard Parish Reverend Ryan Starks St. Therese Parish Reverend William Swichtenberg St. Mary Parish Reverend Donald Zuleger St. Bernadette & Sacred Heart Parishes Amy Oelhafen Board of Trustees Chairperson
Thank you to our supporting parishes!
We are blessed to receive 22% of our financial support from our 8 Appleton parishes and 15 regional partner parishes. Appleton Parishes and Pastors St. Joseph Parish, Reverend James Leary St. Mary Parish, Reverend William Swichtenberg St. Pius X Parish, Reverend James Jugenheimer St. Thomas More Parish, Very Reverend James Lucas St. Bernard Parish, Reverend Amal Roche St. Therese Parish, Reverend Ryan Starks St. Bernadette & Sacred Heart Parishes, Reverend Don Zuleger
Regional Partner Parishes Holy Cross Parish, Kaukauna Holy Spirit Parish, Kimberly/Darboy Most Precious Blood Parish, New London SS. Peter & Paul Parish, Hortonville St. Clare Parish, Wrightstown/ Greenleaf/ Askeaton St. Denis Parish, Shiocton St. Edward Parish, Mackville St. John Nepomucene Parish, Little Chute St. Katherine Drexel Parish, Kaukauna/ Hollandtown St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish, Greenville St. Mary of the Seven Dolors Parish, Stockbridge St. Mary Parish, Black Creek St. Nicholas Parish, Freedom St. Patrick Parish, Stephensville St. Paul Parish, Combined Locks
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X, The Xavier Magazine
• Summer 2018
S
ome of the strongest testaments to the success of Xavier Catholic Schools are the lives of our alumni. Our newest alumni, the class of 2018, begin the next chapter of their lives having completed 23,231 hours of service, achieving an ACT average of 25.7, the highest score in northeast Wisconsin, and having earned over $4 million in scholarships for college. We honor their commitment to academics, service, and faith in our Lord and we wish them an abundance of blessings in all that they will do. Our alumni confirm the positive experience and outstanding preparation offered by Xavier Catholic Schools by choosing Xavier for their children. We will soon be welcoming more than 1,500 students for the 2018-2019 school year. Nearly 300 of those young people are children of Xavier High School alumni. The time honored tradition of selecting Xavier Catholic Schools for one’s children has been established by alumni from the Class of 1968 through the Class of 2012. We are thrilled to partner with those parents in molding the next generation of Hawks.
St. Francis Xavier, pray for us. Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.
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Alumni Updates 1960s In June, Barbara Jean Zuleger Feavel '65 (St. Therese) and Douglas Ebben Feavel '65 (St. Mary) celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary (having met their senior year). A combined, late summer family and class reunion is scheduled at Frank's Pizza as a celebration of their milestone. The couple raised two children and retired in 2005 from careers respectively in education and technology. They currently reside in Vincennes, IN while volunteering domestically and abroad with a variety of non-profits. Three years ago, they authored a popular non-fiction book, Uncommon Character: 26 Stories of Ordinary Men and Women Who Did the Extraordinary, which was inspired by those post-career experiences. Complimentary signed copies will be available at their celebration.
Barb Dubey Larson '66, enjoys living in Georgetown, TX, during the winter and spending summers in Wisconsin on Lake Mendota. A retired NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) RN, she stays busy as a Kiwanis member, and serves on the board of directors for Senior University, a lifelong learning program for those over 50. She also enjoys participating in music ministry by ringing hand bells in choirs of three different churches. In April, Barb celebrated her 70th birthday with family in Wisconsin Dells. Gene Lillge is looking forward to his 50th Reunion of the XHS Class of 1969 in 2019. Members from the class have had various summer get togethers, including recent golf outings with (from left to right) Dan Balliet, Dan Laux, Kevin Lilly, Pete Hahn, Gene Lillge, Ralph Kessler, Tom Hurley, John Resch, and Carl Weber.
1970s Kathy Buchen ‘70 (left with her son Eddie) just published her eighth book in the Rhiannon Nolan cozy mystery series, Death in a Pink Cadillac: The Door County Special. She also wrote a historical novella set in Montello called Rainmaker, and later this year will publish a women's fiction saga, Bless Me Father for I Have Sinned. All of her books are available on Amazon and at several local libraries, with her latest available for e-Book, Nook and Kindle through ten different distributors online. She is a past chair of the Youth Services Section of the Wisconsin Library Association and was the founding president of the board of the Fox Valley Literacy Coalition. Fellow book lovers can contact her at Menasha Public Library, where she is the supervising librarian in the Children's Room.
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• Summer 2018
Recently engaged, married, new family member, career change, retired, new grandparent, get together with other alumni, or other fun fact? Keep us informed of your whereabouts and accomplishments! Alumni love to read about one another and we would love to share information about our alumni in the Alumni Updates section of the Xavier Magazine. Please send us your news and photos via email to: xmagazine@xaviercatholicschools.org or by mail to 1600 W Prospect Ave, Appleton, WI 54914. We look forward to hearing from you!
1980s In May, Anne Miller Decker ’83 was named Teacher of the Year for St. Matthew's Catholic School and nominated for Teacher of the Year for the Diocese of Richmond (VA) for the Tidewater region (right, with Principal Louis Goldberg). For twenty-three years, Anne has worked as a Catholic school educator. She currently teaches kindergarten at St. Matthew’s Catholic School where her involvement in the Catholic community extends beyond her profession. Anne is a mentor to students and new teachers, serves as a Eucharistic minister, and served on various committees over the years that focus on continuing the standards of a strong Catholic academic curriculum. Anne is married to Captain select Thomas Decker (left) of the United States Navy.
Matthew Gonnering ‘84 is the CEO of Widen, a global software company employing 135 people headquartered in Madison. Widen software helps marketing teams organize digital content. Matthew has been with the organization for 18 years and in his current role since 2009. Matthew is also an accomplished public speaker highlighting business transformation and encouraging the hiring of people with development disabilities (recently featured as a TEDxMadison speaker on this topic). He and his wife, Sarah, have five children and reside in Waunakee, WI. He was the 2018 commencement speaker at Xavier High School.
Lisa Ulmen Roach ’85 currently lives in Illinois. Her son, Kasper, is a freshman in high school. A member of the Junior Air Force ROTC, Kasper will be attending art camp at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay this summer.
2000s Clement (Matt) Markowski ’01 currently lives in De Pere with his wife Jackie, nine year old son Clement (Jake), and four year old son, Mitch. Matt is a sales engineer for Appleton Marine, Inc and Jackie is a technology integration specialist in the Pulaski School System. They welcomed their third child, Molly Mae, on May 8th. Bob Schwei ‘02 is managing director of iPROMOTEu, a top 40 company in the promotional products industry. Bob married Dr. Kelsey Schwei, a professor at the University of South Florida and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Brinkley M. Schwei was born September 21, 2016. The family resides on Lake DuBay near Wausau, WI along with their four legged pride and joy, Mavrick.
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Alumni Updates 2000s After earning a Bachelor of Science degree from UW-Madison in 2010, Dan Higgins ’06 continued his education and in 2013 graduated from Northwestern Health Sciences University, Bloomington, MN with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. Dan was recently awarded the Wisconsin Chiropractic Association’s 2018 Nels Bakke Award for Young Practitioners. Only one chiropractor in the state is recognized for this annual award based on his/her service to the community and his/her profession. To reach patients who may not have time to make it to the clinic, Dan spends a quarter of his time working onsite at various corporations in the area.
2010s Matt Dupont ’11 and his wife Jamie Collins were married on April 21st at St. Andrew Parish in Delavan, Wisconsin. Representing several generations of Xavier alumni, a beautiful photo was captured of the Dupont family (left to right) Tony ’83, Deanna (XCS staff), Jamie, Matt ’11, Kate ’21, Anne ’14 and Chris ’16.
A journalist for Phoenix New Times, Joe Flaherty ’11 received a 2017 George Polk Award for immigration reporting. The story, co-written with Antonia Noori Farzan, revealed that Phoenix-area Motel 6 locations were providing guest lists to Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. Joe has been reporting for the Phoenix New Times since last summer. He received his master’s degree in journalism from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York, graduating first in his class.
Courtney Gear ’12 recently graduated from Western Illinois University with her MA in Communication Studies. Engaged last year, Courtney and her fiancé Darren Lillard (photo) are getting married this August.
A senior at St. John's University in MN, Grant Anderla ’14, recently completed an internship program at the Henry L. Stinson Center as part of the Washington D.C. Summer Study Program. Grant focused his work on Japan and East Asia and the impact of their relationship with the United States.
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2010s Last fall, Iphigenia Kyriakakou ’14 was recognized as one of University of Wisconsin- Madison’s “10 Most Inspirational Student Leaders” through her role as a communications director for the campus organization Hollywood Badgers (HB). Since the recognition, Iphy was chosen as president of the organization. Students involved in HB meet weekly to share ideas and network with professionals within the TV and film industry. Iphy plans to move to Los Angeles after graduation this spring to pursue a career in the music and entertainment industry.
A member of the University of Minnesota marching band, Rosie Johnson '15, had the experience of a lifetime as the band performed with Justin Timberlake in the Super Bowl LII halftime show. The most memorable part of the performance was the “unexpected overwhelming support I received from my friends and family who watched our performance, and the impact it had on our local community”. Rosie hopes the band's performance "inspired young kids and aspiring musicians to pursue music in some way in their life; it can connect you to so many wonderful people, communities, and once in a lifetime experiences. I certainly had no idea I'd be performing alongside Justin Timberlake one day when I first picked up the trumpet in the fourth grade.” Rosie plans to graduate this December with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies.
Photo credit to Gopher Photo
Fall Alumni Reception
On November 11th, over 80 alumni, representing 30 different graduating classes, and their guests attended the 6th Annual Alumni Reception and Fall Musical. The evening featured a wonderful reception followed by the musical performance of Guys and Dolls.
Class Reunion Information
Class of 1968 – 50th Reunion
On Saturday, August 25, 2018 we will be celebrating our 50th reunion! Join former classmates for a tour of Xavier High School at 3:00 pm. A casual and relaxed gathering will follow at 4:00 pm at the Appleton Yacht Club. Stay updated by joining the private Facebook group "Xavier High School Appleton Wisconsin Class of 1968".
Class of 1969- Reunion in 2019! Our reunion committee is still in the process of planning, but please save the date for the weekend of August 16-18, 2019. The theme of the weekend is “Three Days of Peace and Music”. A tour of Xavier High School will be offered on Sunday, August 18th. Please email contact information updates and questions to daukau4@gmail.com.
Class of 1976 Class of 1976 is turning 60! Celebration planned at the Appleton Yacht Club on Saturday, August 4th from 5:00 pm until “the cows come home!”. Please contact Barbara Hooyman Baker at 928-301-0669 or barbara@barbarabaker.com for more information.
Class of 1978 A casual gathering is planned for Friday, September 14th at 6:00 pm at Riverside Bar and Grill. Saturday, September 15th classmates can plan on a tour of Xavier High School at 2:00 pm followed by cocktails and buffet style meal beginning at 5:30 pm at the Appleton Yacht Club. Join the Facebook group “Xavier High School Class of 1978 Reunion” for the most up to date information.
Class of 1983 Meet up with fellow classmates on Thursday, August 9th at downtown Houdini Plaza for the performance of Mistrial (5:30-8:30 pm), part of the Appleton Heid Music Summer Concert Series. Visit the Fox River House (211 S Walnut St.) after the concert for a casual get together. Pizza can be ordered and a cash bar will be available. Visit the “Xavier High School Class of 1983 Reunion” Facebook page for more information or contact Kim at khmantey@gmail.com with questions.
IN MEMORIAM
Xavier Catholic Schools offers its condolences to the friends, family, and former classmates of alumni who have passed away recently.
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Thomas Connolly ‘72
Nancy Toppins Shannon '74
Thomas Full '62
Jacob Siebers '03
Mike Heideman '66
Jeff Van Camp '83
Clay Manthey '78 Nancy Gevelinger Marks '68 X, The Xavier Magazine
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Mark Verboomen '89 St. Francis Xavier, Pray for Us Live Jesus in Our Hearts, Forever.
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The Xavier Hall of Fame was established in 2009 to honor distinguished Xavier alumni. Over the years we have honored and inducted 25 amazing alumni. When you consider we have more than 10,000 alumni, this is very exclusive company. (Please see the alumni section of www.XavierCatholicSchools.org for a complete list of inductees.) Honoring our alumni is as important as ever and it is truly a pleasure to honor them. As a staff, we feel so passionate about this that we would like to expand our recognition efforts. We will continue to honor distinguished alumni, however, moving forward there will be additional categories in which to honor alumni. Beginning this fall, the Hall of Fame honor will be known as the “Distinguished Alumni” award. The current Hall of Fame members will be recognized as members of the “Distinguished Alumni”. I am delighted to share with you that we have shortened the nomination form and hope the less intensive form will encourage more nominations. I encourage you to nominate a deserving alumnus/a. It has been a tradition for the past 28 years to recognize an Honorary Alumnus/a. Until last year, that recognition was bestowed at graduation. Last fall, we made a change and bestowed that honor at the same time as the Hall of Fame induction. We will continue this new tradition moving forward. We are pleased to announce that in the fall of 2019 we will begin inducting members into an Athletic Hall of Fame. Plans are still being finalized for the Athletic Hall of Fame as of this printing. Also beginning in the fall of 2019, we will honor a non-Xavier graduate with a Volunteer/ Outstanding Service Award. This honoree will be chosen based on his/her extraordinary dedication to the St. Francis Xavier Catholic School System. These honorees will be recognized at a special event during Homecoming Week. The plans for this exciting event are still being finalized, so please stay tuned. We hope that you join in our excitement as we embark on this new way honor and celebrate our alumni and friends.
If you have any questions or comments about this newly expanded Honor Program, please feel free to contact Lisa Pfaff at
lpfaff@XavierCatholicSchools.org or (920) 735-9380.
Xavier...Where it all Started High school sweethearts. When we hear the phrase it conjures up thoughts of that special couple in high school who seemed to be inseparable. They made it through the best of times and the worst of times in that uncharted territory called the teen years. In fact, 2% of new marriages in North America are comprised of high school sweethearts. Xavier High School numbers at least 300 alumni couples, each of whom was a Xavier graduate. That’s 600 individuals who over the years redefined “The Xavier Way.” We asked some of our alumni couples to reflect on how Xavier brought them together. Margi (Dungar) and Dan Voissem, '78 “Our story started way back at St. Mary Grade School. We were in the same class for 1st and 2nd grade. We went to Xavier together all four years, crossing paths in class, at school functions and sporting events, but it wasn’t until the beginning of senior year that I developed a big crush on him. Finally, at Food Fair in 1978, he gave me a ride home. That was 40 years ago. We have been happily married for 36 years and are blessed with 3 children, Charlie '02, Phil '02 and Megan '05 and 5 grandchildren. “ Janet (Mauthe) and John Smith, '80 “Our sly sisters set us up. We entered Xavier as freshmen in 1976, each having an older sister who graduated the previous Spring. Those sisters made sure that we were aware of each other, and it didn’t take long before we hung in the same circles, shared the same friends and outlook on life. When my husband-to-be (John) took my hand to help me up on our freshman homecoming float…that sealed the deal! True love. 31 years of marriage, 7 kids, built on the love of Christ, this adventure together has been an absolute blessing. ” Amy (Young) and Chris Croatt, '88 “We met at Xavier and began dating toward the end of our senior year. Prior to senior year, I’m not sure we even talked other than an occasional hello in the hallway or at a sporting event. During that senior year we began going to some school functions and social gatherings together, and a closer bond formed over time. And it all started at Xavier in the spring of 1988! This year marks two milestones for us -- our 30 year high school reunion and our 25 year wedding anniversary. We have lived in Appleton since graduation and have an amazing 23 year old son (Alex Croatt ’13) and one cat.”
Kip ‘82 and Gina (Chase) Zilisch ‘82 Mike ‘71 and Kathy (Hansen) Bates ‘71 with son, Adam Bates ‘09
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Maxine (DeGroot) and Andy Vande Hey, '92 “It all began in the fall of 1987 at a grade school dance. I wore cologne for the first time (Jovan Musk) borrowed from my friend Brian VerVoort ('92). Maxine asked me to dance along with several other young ladies. We became quite fond of each other and became a bit of a couple in 8th grade. Upon graduation and making our way from Little Chute to Xavier, which was very "black sheepish" of us. Sophomore year began and a very cute brunette who had made the varsity volleyball team caught my eye (Maxine). I asked her to homecoming and she agreed. We have been together growing in faith and our love for each other ever since. We married in 1996 and now have 4 beautiful children: Nicholas '16, Rebekah '18, Courtney '21, and Halle '23. Nick is at St. Norbert College and Rebekah is going to UW-EauClaire. We enjoy spending time with family and both work together in our family business, Vande Hey Company.” Toni (Fritsch) and Brian Ver Voort, '92 “We met at Xavier in December 1989. Our first date was that same month at “Spree” which was at Liberty Hall in Kimberly. So, yes, I’ve always been reminded that SHE had to ask ME first! This was the first of Xavier proms, homecomings, and Sprees together. Most of these were also double or group dates with Andy and Maxine Vande Hey (left). We married on May 21, 1997. We both agree that our marriage greatly improved once we put Christ as the center of our lives. We’ve now been married nearly 21 years, and together over 28! We have been blessed with four awesome kids (Brianna, Grant, Alicia, and Brock). We are juggling activities and sports on a regular basis, like to go walking/biking together, take weekends up north, and are very active at our church.” Maggie (Born) and Patrick Murphy, '07 “We supposedly sat at the same lunch table freshman year, but I don’t think any words were exchanged between the two of us! By senior year we had a mutual friend group and most of our friends were dating someone – I guess we were the best of the rest. We started talking at my graduation party and were officially dating by July 2007. My family was supposed to relocate to Virginia that summer, but the stars aligned and my parents stayed in the area until 2014. Patrick and I made the decision to give long distance dating a whirl and headed off to our respective colleges in Missouri and Michigan. In 2011 Patrick moved to Seattle for a new job, I visited him that summer and we got engaged! I finished my master’s program in St. Louis, and completed final clinical rotations in Seattle. Since our marriage in August 2012, we have added a dog, an 18-month old daughter, moved to Texas, and welcomed our second daughter in June!"
Elizabeth (Welch) '93 and Greg Strick '93
Kate (Sabish) ’85 and Bob Geenen ‘85
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... a record breaking year! Hosted on January 27th, Celebrate, Xavier Catholic School System's largest single event fundraiser, raised a net amount of over $302,500! The generosity of our many supporters made this the first time the event passed $300,000. Money raised at Celebrate supports families and teachers, keeps tuition as low as possible, and ensures funding of critical education programs. We again would like to thank all who donated, volunteered, attended, or assisted in any way to make this another record year.
Please consider Celebrate-ing with us next year on
Saturday, January 26, 2019.
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LEGACY CIRCLE
Throughout the history of Catholic education in Appleton and the Fox Cities, many individuals made the important decision to leave a lasting legacy with a planned gift. These gifts represent a special dedication to our Catholic schools and each individual demonstrated their commitment to the future through gifts that support our mission, change lives, and continue a tradition of excellence. The St. Francis Xavier “Legacy Circle” was created to honor this spirit of philanthropy and recognize those individuals who have thoughtfully included a gift to Xavier Catholic Schools in their estate plans through a will, trust, retirement plan, life insurance policy, or life-income gift such as a charitable gift annuity or charitable remainder trust. A planned gift presents an extraordinary opportunity for you to honor a loved one, an inspiring teacher or coach, or a field of study that impacted your life. We encourage you to consider a gift and contact the Advancement Office to discover how you can realize your philanthropic goal. In doing so, you help determine the size of our aspirations, the scope of our mission and the extent of each student's impact on the world. Membership is entirely voluntary, and there is no immediate gift, minimum gift level, or minimum age required to become a member. By joining the “Legacy Circle”, you become part of the Xavier legacy and inspire others to support our students, families, and staff with future gifts. The following is a list of those individuals who have notified the Advancement Office of a planned gift. Contact Bob Biebel at bbiebel@xaviercatholicschools.org or at (920)735-9380 Ext. 5502
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Anonymous Eileen Auer Margaret Bekkers and Thomas Feavel ‘62 Michael and Karen Bendel Robert and Mary Bodoh Joseph and Linda Bound Kathleen Curry-Wagner† Tom and JoAnne Dolata Ralph Dorn ‘63 Mike Flanagan ‘62 Hector and Delia Gonzalez Doug and Sue Hahn Bob Hayes ‘71 and Sue Hayes Dr. Pete and Lynlee Hehli Michael Heideman ‘66† and Sally Kranhold Heideman ‘66 Glenn Higgins ‘73 and Anne Salm Higgins ‘77 Mark Hoffmann ‘80 and Kerry Kampf Hoffmann ‘80 Judith Keller ‘63 Kelly Kornely ‘63 and Sheila Kornely
Tom and Meg Lauterbach David and Patricia Lee Greg and Meg Linnemanstons Kevin and Elizabeth Lonergan Brian and Jeanne Martens Jeanne McCoy Ted and Kathy Menge Paul Meyer ‘85 and Kate Myers Meyer ‘85 Mary Beth Nienhaus Dave and Kim O’Brien Lyle and Christine Richter Don† and Barbara Romenesko Merton† and Genevieve† Schulz Richard Schwab ‘63 Douglas Simon ‘87 and Renee Simon Mary Ann St Pierre Rollie Stephenson and Sue Femal Stephenson ‘66 Kevin and Tammy Stini Greg Strick ‘93 and Elizabeth Welch Strick ‘93 Steve and Sue Taylor
Jim and Maria Totzke Paul Utrie and Robin Goldsmith-Utrie Dave Van Hoof and Tari Peerenboom Van Hoof ‘73 David Van Lieshout ‘64 and Connie Van Lieshout Francis and Josephine† Van Lieshout Terry and Robin Van Zeeland Ben and Priscilla Vanden Heuvel Brian Wallace ‘86 and Catherine Colling Wallace ‘88 Clarence Wallace† Jim Weiland and Ellen Barry Weiland ‘71 Timothy and Camille Welch Joe Welch ‘84 and Debby Van Schyndel Welch ‘84 Paul and Judy Werner Deceased
†
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SYSTEM EVENTS HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE Each year the Xavier advancement team, together with hundreds of passionate volunteers and staff members, joins together to host three major fundraising events. While the scope and the purpose of these events may have changed over the years, they remain an important part of the Xavier community. Together they celebrate the tradition of Xavier Catholic Schools and Catholic education in Appleton and generate revenue that allows the System to provide students with the opportunities they need be successful and to fulfill Xavier’s commitment to the future. The longest-running of these events is Food Fair, and 2018 marked the 46th year people have flocked to Xavier for an international dining and entertainment experience. Held annually on the first Sunday in May at Xavier High School, Food Fair started as a high school event to raise money for tuition assistance and scholarships. Over the years thousands of volunteers have given their passion, time and talents to make this community building event unique and evolving, and benefiting preschool through grade 12. Celebrate, the largest single System fundraising event, began as an Appleton Catholic Education System auction to benefit our elementary and middle schools. Held in January, this event annually brings together over 500 people for a special evening featuring dinner, raffles and a live and silent auction. Through the generosity of all involved, Celebrate supports our teachers, keeps tuition as low as possible, and ensures the funding of critical educational and co-curricular programs.
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u! o Y k n a h T Our newest event, the Tour de Francis Benefit Ride, is held on the same day as Food Fair. Tour de Francis began in 2015 and offers the opportunity to get outside and enjoy a bike ride with family and friends. The Tour offers three unique experiences designed to fit everyone’s abilities, including a 62.5 mile ride, 25 mile ride, and a ten mile family ride. After the ride, participants head over to enjoy a meal and camaraderie at Food Fair. Together these three events generate nearly $400,000 to support our students and staff. In essence, they help make the Xavier difference and directly impact the experiences of each student. A huge thank you goes out to the legion of volunteers who help make these events possible as well as to all those who help with sponsorships, provide donations of goods and services, and to the thousands who attend each year. Special thanks to all of our individual booster clubs and associations who donate precious time, talent, and treasure for individual groups and campuses. To get involved in any or all of these events, please contact Lisa at lpfaff@xaviercatholicschools.org or (920) 735-9380.
Staff teach WHERE and WHAT they learned
There’s an unwritten rule that if you want to find the best restaurant in town it makes sense to find out where the best chefs go to eat, and where the menu is based primarily on locally grown food. It’s a simple assumption that the best will gravitate to the best, and that locally-sourced food can often define the “taste” of a region. In many ways, we can apply those same principles to the St. Francis Xavier Catholic School System faculty and staff. Because, you see, we are blessed with the best Catholic school faculty and staff from preschool through high school, and one of the reasons for that is the significant number of alumni who come back to teach in the Xavier system. For example, 26 of our faculty/staff are graduates of Xavier High School, 4 graduated from Xavier Middle School and 7 attended Xavier Elementary School! (See box) In addition, we draw strongly from area Catholic elementary and middle schools. We also attract faculty and staff who attended Catholic schools in Michigan, Kentucky, New York, New Jersey, Minnesota, Iowa, Costa Rica, as well as the five dioceses of Wisconsin. It is truly a faith-filled, collaborative group of women and men who take to heart our mission to create missionary disciples at all levels of our System.
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We are also blessed by the employees who choose to enroll their own children in the Xavier system. They recognize that their children will benefit from many of the same values and experiences that formed who they are today. They see the benefit in their children blossoming in a Christ-centered community dedicated to faith formation, academic excellence, community engagement, and individual growth of our students in a safe environment. X, The Xavier Magazine
• Summer 2018
Jennifer Fenendael Andree ‘90 Ellen Gloudemans Baisden ‘73 Kathy Hansen Bates ‘71 Mary Casey Benthein ‘86 Madeline Brege XMS Sue Mueller Burton ‘82 Jann Kunstman Callahan ‘78 Dennis Ferron ‘73 Mary Ellen Moran Fisher ‘72 Rhonda Folz XES Natalie Fuller ‘03 Kate Sabish Geenen ‘85 Kara Fisher Jacobson ‘98 Debbie Mantzke XES Carrie McGovern XES Maureen Milbach ‘87 Kay Neuman XES Trina Hughes Nolan ‘93 Molly Polzin ‘03 Lindsey Lonergan Radloff ‘00 Patricia Bleier Rechner ‘66 Jean Reed XES Vicky Hughes Roovers ‘85 Peggy Schwartz XES Traci Feil Shefka ‘89 Angela Sievers ‘01 Sarah Simon ‘86 Alena Lange Tapelt ‘96 Debi Totzke XMS Anna VanEperen XMS Shannon Brautigam Webb ’80 Deborah Van Schyndel Welch ’84 Angela Rechner Weyers ‘97 Kelly Wilda ’00 Tom Woeckner ‘84 Michael Yates XES
Xavier Catholic Schools is blessed to have a hardworking team of dedicated faculty and staff. We would like to congratulate the following employees on celebrating years of service milestones: 1Year:
Bob Biebel, Vice President of Advancement Madeline Brege, ELL Teacher Tom Candell, Vice President of Business Services Sheryl Demro, Care Program Aide Mariah Ervin, Learning Services Teacher Katiuska Gamboa, Care Program Aide Kate Geenen '85, Health Teacher Catherine Heimerl, Math Teacher Keith Huss, Custodian Susan Johnson, Food Service Support Emily Lamers, Communications Specialist Katie Leicht, Care Program and Instructional Aide Gloria Moon, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher Stephanie Murphy, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher Fran Peter, High School Associate Principal John Ravizza, Superintendent Samantha Schroeder, 8th Grade Teacher Alissa Schuh, 6th Grade Teacher Angela Sievers '01, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
5 Years:
Patricia Elko, Learning Services Teacher Adam Hendrickson, English Teacher Tara Pearce, Vice President of Admissions Michelle Schmitz, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher Anna Van Eperen, Music Teacher Jennifer Walter, English Teacher Kelly Wilda '00, Religion Teacher
10 Years:
Jann Callahan '78, Art Teacher Roy Clark, Office Aide and Scrip Coordinator Deanna Dupont, Admissions Coordinator
15 Years:
Rhonda Folz, Care Program Aide Bobbie Springstroh, Food Service Manager Elizabeth Van Handel, Business Teacher
20 Years:
Linda Dreier, Food Service Support Michael Mauthe, High School Principal Deborah Reinhalter, 4th Grade Teacher
25 Years:
Donna Dumke, Science Teacher Karen Leonardi, Instructional Aide Lisa Pierre, Instructional Aide Judith Sokel, Care Program Aide Ingrid Wolf, Care Program Aide Lynn Zetzman, Art Teacher
Cong
! s n o i at l u t a r
What’s happening
HIGH SCHOOL
LIVING THE XAVIER WAY For Xavier student, Katrina Counter '19, working as a counselor at summer camp is more than just an opportunity to volunteer. It is something that she looks forward to every year and something that she can’t stop talking about. For her, this is the happiest place on earth. That place is Camp Daniel, a Northwoods camping experience that provides people with disabilities the opportunities for personal, social, and spiritual growth. Katrina first became involved with Camp Daniel, located in Athelstane, Wisconsin, five years ago. While she was extremely hesitant to participate having never spent any length of time with individuals with disabilities, she soon realized what a transformative experience she was beginning after witnessing the joy and excitement of each camper. She was quickly overwhelmed by the love each person attending camp shared. Over the years, Katrina has been partnered with a number of special friends, each of whom reinforces the idea that God has given each of us many different gifts. She is quick to point out that each camper teaches and guides her more than she guides them. Katrina is very thankful that God has shared this opportunity with her and put each camper into her life for a reason. Recently, Katrina has become an advocate for Camp Daniel by speaking to different groups about the value and importance of this experience. In addition, she is working to help raise funds in order to improve the current facilities and to ensure that Camp Daniel is as accessible as possible for activities throughout the year. As a community we are extremely proud of Katrina and her outstanding example of living the Xavier Way.
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X, The Xavier Magazine
• Summer 2018
Student Life Girls & Boys Cross Country: The girls’ team won the conference and also won the sectional meet and the boys' team finished 5th in conference. Sophomore Annie Higgins '20 was second at sectionals and third at state. The girls’ team finished in 10th place at state.
Girls Tennis: The Hawks again were undefeated champions in conference play and qualified the entire team for sectionals. Singles player senior Jennifer Niemeyer '18 along with the doubles teams of seniors Elise Curtin '18/Stephanie Sowin '18 and junior Lily Anne Van Ye '19/freshman Erika Curtin '21 qualified for state.
Football: The Hawks were competitive in the Bay Conference, placing third in the conference. The team qualified for the WIAA playoffs and defeated Wautoma in their opening playoff game but lost to Wrightstown.
Girls Golf: The Hawks were conference champs! The team placed 2nd at regionals, which sent the entire team to sectionals where they finished third. Lauren Haen '20 qualified as an individual for state.
Volleyball: The Hawks were again undefeated in dual conference play, finishing in a three way tie as conference champs after the conference tournament. The Hawks lost a heart-breaker 5-set match in the regional final.
Boys Soccer: The boys’ soccer team were regional champions and lost to Plymouth in a hard fought sectional semi-final.
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What’s happening
HIGH SCHOOL
In November, the Xavier Theatre put on a wonderful musical performance of Guys and Dolls.
Boys Basketball: The team finished with an undefeated regular season record and for the 5th consecutive year were conference champions. The Hawks lost a heartbreaker sectional final game by two points. Senior Sam Ferris '18 reached his 1,000 point in that last game. In the regular season, senior Hunter Plamann '18 surpassed the XHS scoring record of 1,656 points held by ’63 grad Kip Whitlinger by scoring 1,750 varsity career points.
Powerlifting: Xavier had 20 athletes qualify for state – 12 males and 8 females. Congrats to the boys who finished as Division 2 State Champions!
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X, The Xavier Magazine
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Girls Basketball: In the regional opener, the young Hawks team went on a 35-3 scoring run to coast to a win, but then lost to the #1 seed in the regional semi.
Dance: Our varsity dance team qualified for state for their jazz performance.
Wrestling: The Hawks had their largest team ever, and for the first time sent a Hawk to the WIAA sectional meet. The team graduates only one senior and will compete in the Bay Conference next year!
Girls Hockey: The Fox Cities Stars girls won their first ever conference championship! The team won their regional opener but then lost in overtime to DC Everest. Boys Hockey: The Fox Cities Stars boys enjoyed a successful regular season. The team defeated Ashwaubenon in regionals, but then lost to Neenah. Senior Bryan Geenen ‘18 was recognized in October at a Court of Honor ceremony after earning the Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout Award. Bryan’s Eagle Project was comprised of upgrades to current hiking trails at the Apple Creek YMCA. Earlier this year, two members of the XHS Forensics Team qualified to represent the Diocese of Green Bay in competition at the National Catholic Forensic League's Grand National Tournament over Memorial Day weekend in Washington, DC. Adelyn Carney ‘21 competed in congressional debate and Eve Vanden Heuvel ‘21 competed in Extemporaneous Speaking. While there, the two met up with Xavier graduate, Casey Higgins ‘04. Casey currently works in the House of Representatives on Captiol Hill on Paul Ryan's staff as Assistant to the Speaker for Policy and Trade Counsel. This photo was taken on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Speaker's offices and the rest of the Capitol building. (Left to right: Casey Higgins, Adelyn Carney, Eve Vanden Heuvel, and Mariah Ervin, coach).
In May, several athletes attended the Wisconsin High School All Sports Awards Banquet at Lambeau Field featuring celebrity guest Aaron Rodgers. Six Xavier students were nominated for athlete of the year in their sport Hunter Plamann '18 (Boys Basketball), Konnor Barth '18 (Boys Tennis), David Horak '18 (Boys Tennis), Elise Curtin '18 (Girls Tennis), Annie Higgins '20 (Cross Country), and Stephanie Sowin '18 (Girls Tennis). Four legged friends Murphy and Fitz from Canine Comfort LLC visited the freshman Health Class in May as they were learning about stress management. Owner/trainer, and Xavier alumni parent Molly Johnson shared with the class the value of therapy dogs in providing stress relief.
In January, Anika Mazier ’19, was crowned Miss Green Bay Area’s Outstanding Teen 2018. Celebrating with Anika, big sister Katrina Mazier ’16 was crowned Miss Green Bay Area 2018! The two have been very busy this spring attending area benefit events. In June, they competed in the Miss Wisconsin Scholarship Pageant.
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Join Us as Christmas Stars Celebrates 25 Years! It began as a spark: an idea that founders Jack and Linda Ourada and Rick and Franki Romenesko ignited to support and raise funds for the fine arts programs in our Catholic schools. Fueled by the passion and dedication of hundreds of volunteers and the direction of Jim Romenesko for the past twenty years, the Christmas Stars flame quickly grew, touching people’s hearts and bringing joy to packed houses for a quarter of a century. It has given the community an outlet through which to share their time and talents and has provided financial support for the arts in the Xavier System as well as scholarships to promote interest in the arts. At its core, it has brought the true meaning of Christmas to life for its audiences in vivid technicolor and sound. Christmas Stars is truly a one-of-a-kind, spectacular undertaking of love that has spanned a generation. Despite its humble beginnings as a weekend of shows in a rented theater for which many tickets were given away and no profit was made, the core committee knew they had something special. They had seen the audience’s reaction and witnessed a new family begin to form—the Christmas Stars family. Now, 25 years later, Christmas Stars brings high-quality entertainment and the message of God’s love to thousands of people each year in a theater that was designed with Christmas Stars in mind. Proceeds from the shows help the fine arts programs. Christmas Stars has left an indelible mark on thousands of hearts and will continue to do so for years to come. Christmas Stars 2018 plans to celebrate this truly remarkable anniversary by combining a live performance from current cast members with a virtual performance from its alumni. To do so, Christmas Stars needs current contact information for as many former cast members as possible. Please visit www.christmasstars.org and click on the Christmas Stars Alumni link if you have contact information and to learn more. 26
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• Summer 2018
A Year of the Theatre Fine arts are a rich tradition at Xavier Catholic Schools. In 1997, the high school added a large expansion to the west side of the property, forming the Xavier Fine Arts Theatre. For the last two decades, the theatre and its programs have captivated audiences with exceptional musical performances, plays, band concerts, the Xavier Theatre Academy, Christmas Stars, the Northeast Wisconsin Passion Play, and other community events. During the 2018-2019 school year, Xavier is excited to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Xavier Fine Arts Theatre. Preparations are underway for a series of events to be hosted throughout the year involving students, parents, faculty, staff and supporters of the Xavier community while inviting back alumni performers, Xavier alumni, former faculty and staff. A committee is currently finalizing the details of these events and more information will be sent this summer and included on the Fine Arts page of the website. We hope you will join us as we celebrate our past and look forward to the exciting future that is Xavier Fine Arts!
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What’s happening
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Student Life Last fall, Chris Goulet’s What's A Matter chemistry-based Literature Elective did a Freezing Lab where they learned about lowering the freezing temperature of water by adding ice to it. As a culmination to the lab, they made homemade ice cream, which uses the concept of lowering the freezing point of water using salt. At the completion of the lab, the students enjoyed the homemade ice cream. In March, a poem by sixth grader Adam Earle ‘24 was one of just five pieces chosen from 200 for Appleton’s Sidewalk Poetry Program. The City of Appleton started the Sidewalk Poetry Program in 2014, stamping original work into select sections of city sidewalks. This spring, eleven students competed in the State German Speaking Contest at Marquette University in Milwaukee. Competitors at regionals and state had to memorize a German poem and recite it, then spontaneously introduce themselves. To qualify for state, students earned at least 38 out of 40 points in a regional competition. Eighth graders Allison Matzek ‘22 and Patrick McGreevey ‘22 were the only students in the competition to receive a perfect score. Of the eleven Xavier students that competed at state, four received a first place rating. In May, Noah Donnermeyer '24 won the Serra Club's Essay Contest on Discernment. Noah received $100 for his effort and was invited to read his essay at a dinner with Bishop Ricken. Lily Leicht '22, was nominated to attend the Jr. National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C. Lily was selected out of thousands of nominations nationwide. She attended the six-day conference in July and is looking forward to this very special opportunity. A special thank you to Chris Goulet for recognizing Lily’s leadership abilities.
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Allison Matzek '22, an 8th grader at Xavier Middle School, won the Omicron Chapter of Delta Kappa Gama's Mary Jo Nettesheim Memorial Literacy Competition's first place regional award in the fiction short story contest for the third year in a row.
X, The Xavier Magazine
• Summer 2018
The Arts are Not Only Alive,
they Thrive at Xavier Middle School Take a walk through the halls of Xavier Middle School and it won’t take you long to see how talented these students are. Your eyes will feast on creative artwork and your ears will hear sweet melodies floating down the hallway. Our musically talented students have concerts and competitions to showcase and challenge their talents. All are welcome to attend any concerts throughout the year. Our visual arts students have the annual Art Night to display their abilities. Art teacher Anne Baruth welcomed guest artist Lisa Geiger for Art Night. Ms. Geiger showcased art techniques in progress as well as finished pieces. While we can’t treat your audio senses in this magazine, we can give you a visual treat by sharing photos from Art Night. Band Awards Leadership: Ian Albino ‘24 Maddie MacKenzie ‘22 Angela McGreevey ‘24 Megan Mladucky ‘23 Justin Podojil ‘22 Patrick Totzke ‘23 Outstanding Band Member: Lindsey Baehler ‘24 Jack Biesterveld ‘22 Noah Donnermeyer ‘24 Dawson Fish ‘23 Mary VanStraten ‘22 Grace Woelfel ‘23 Director’s: Harry Baldwin ‘24 Claire Hendee ‘22 Noah Lombardi ‘23 An Gehrmann Musicianship Award: Carrie Schwartz ‘22 Woody Herman Jazz Award: Jeffrey Sandoval ‘22
State Solo and Ensemble: Jack Biesterveld ‘22 Nolan Henckel ‘24 Carrie Schwartz ‘22 Choir and Music Awards Musical Achievement: Angelique Munguia ‘24 Annie Strick ‘24 Musical Leadership: Ryan Bekkers ‘22 Choral Director’s Award for Exceptional Musical Promise: Ryan Brown ‘25 Izzy Cerdan ‘22 Victoria Lopez ‘25 Camille Marquardt ‘25 Payton Newhouse ‘25 Carrie Schwartz ‘22 Kimberly Ebben Choral Musician Award: Jessica Martinez ‘22 xaviercatholicschools.org
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What’s happening
MIDDLE SCHOOL
VEX Robotics In 2017, six 6th grade girls from Xavier Middle School were placed together on the VEX IQ team 2626R also known as The Pirates. The team consists of Alayna McKinnon '24, Gabby Schreiter '24, McKenna Andrews '24, Ella Brandon '24, Sophia Bauman '24, and Nana Berko '24. Coach Brian McKinnon, a 6th grade math teacher at Xavier Middle School, led this team to compete at the 2018 World Championship in Louisville, Kentucky!
ANNUAL RE-
Along the way the team won numerous awards throughout the season, including The Excellence Award, the highest award a team can receive at a tournament. They also received the Robot Skills Award, given to the team with the highest number of points in Driver (solo team driving) and Autonomy (programing the robot to drive by itself). The team also qualified and participated in the VEX IQ Robotics Open in Council Bluffs, Iowa where they competed with other teams from across the nation. The Pirates, along with all the robotics teams in the Xavier Catholic School System, focus on many skills to prepare and compete in the robotics tournaments around the state. These skills include designing, creating, and programming the robot to work autonomously, collaborating with their team and with other teams, and most importantly, problem solving.
Congratulations to VEX teams 2626Y and 2626C as well. All three of these Xavier Middle School teams qualified for the VEX Robotics Middle School World Championships.
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Transitioning from XES-to XMSand XHS in the Future
In 2014, the Xavier system reconfigured its campuses and restructured the middle school to a 5th-8th grade format. The recently graduated 8th grade class at Xavier Middle School holds a special distinction, it was the first 5th grade class to attend Xavier Middle School. A transition team consisting of educators and parents worked for 18 months to lay the groundwork for a smooth transition to a 5th - 8th grade middle school for these and future students. One of the ideas that was implemented was WEB (Where Everyone Belongs). This program involves 8th grade leaders who meet incoming 5th graders, give them a tour of the school, and do fun activities to help them feel welcome in their new setting. They also answer any questions and meet with them periodically throughout the year to have fun and be of support.
But even with all the planning, it was this 8th grade class who was the first to blaze the trail as middle school 5th graders. Recently the 8th graders reflected on how it felt to be that first class. “I was nervous,” said Lizzie Heimerl '22. “The school seemed so big until you figure out it’s just a big square.” Some students were excited about the change. “I liked being with a ton more people,” Carson Haen '22 stated. The students in this class said it did not take them long to feel comfortable. They loved the additional opportunities in sports, academics, service, and extracurricular clubs. As 8th graders, many also went on to become WEB leaders themselves and help new incoming 5th graders feel welcome. Students laughed and shared memories of their four years together. Highlights included 6th and 7th grade outdoor camps, Medieval Day, and various field trips. But most of their memories and laughter were simply about having fun in class and hanging out with their classmates. “I learned a lot about myself and how to help people,” shared Grace Hyde '22. Others agreed. The staff at Xavier Middle School thanks this class of 2018 for four great years and wishes them well as they blaze their trail into high school!
Q&A
With Mike Birling
Alumni Feature: Introducing Mike Birling '90, Vice President - Baseball Operations of the Durham Bulls
Q A
Talk a bit about how you got started in the profession and the motivation that led you to pursue this line of work.
I majored in Sports Management at UW-LaCrosse, so I knew early on sports was going to be my career path. I had no idea at the time what that meant or what sport I wanted to pursue. I worked for the Continental Baseball Association team in LaCrosse while attending school and really enjoyed basketball. As part of my degree I had to get an internship, so I asked my hometown Minor League Baseball team, the Appleton Foxes, if I could complete it with them. At the time they played at the old Goodland Field and only had a couple full-time employees, so they welcomed the additional “free” labor. It was that summer when I knew what I wanted to do. Baseball was always my first love and I really enjoyed the challenges it presented. I found out early how difficult it was, not only on the field to build a winner, but also off the field with trying to get fans to attend your games. I am a very competitive person and it filled that gap I had when I no longer was able to be the person playing the game.
Q A
What have been the highlights of your professional career?
I have so many highlights in my career. Really hard to narrow them down. If I start on the field I have been fortunate to have been a part of 14 division championships, 5 International League Championships and 2 Triple-A National Championships. Having 5 rings will always be a highlight. Off the field a few stand out. A big one early on was being named General Manager of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. Never dreamed of becoming the GM of my hometown team, especially becoming one of the youngest GM’s at the age of 23. That led to moving on to the world famous Durham Bulls. Started as Assistant GM, moved up to GM and now currently am Vice President. To have spent 20 years with arguably the most well-known Minor League Baseball team has been amazing. Have never been a big individual awards person, but having 3 executive of the year awards has been very humbling.
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Q A
How have you mixed your work load with your family life? Without a doubt that is the toughest part of working in sports. There is no down time. When everyone else is taking summer vacations you are working 12-15 hour days. You just have to make it a priority. When you have kids there is nothing more important than making sure you are there for them. You just have to constantly find that balance. It has been and always will be a work in progress for me. You also need a very patient family.
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Q A
While a career in professional sports seems to be very glamorous what advice would you give to students who are thinking about this type of career?
It definitely can seem glamorous, but the reality hits you very early. Yes, I have been very fortunate to have worked with many famous athletes, but that wears off pretty quickly. You realize they are just trying to figure out life as much as you are. The advice I would give is to be realistic and learn. So many students tell me they want to be a GM, but really have no idea what a GM does. You have to find something that separates you. There are so many people trying to get into the sports industry. Why would we hire you? Are you willing to work harder than everyone else? Are you a great salesperson? You need to do research, gain experience, and see if what you thought working in sports meant equals the reality.
Q A
Are there any special skills that you feel are the most important in your position? What skills do you look for in your employees?
For my particular position it is all about communication, sales and leadership skills. No day is the same in sports. You must be able to navigate through all the different departments that make up a sport organization. Most people only think of the players on the field. What about marketing, ticket sales, sponsorship sales, social media, operations, concessions, retail, grounds keeping? All those department need to be heading in the same direction. For new students looking to get into this business the “easiest” way is to be able to sell. Everyone is looking for good salespeople.
Q A
What are your favorite memories about Xavier?
I have so many incredible memories about Xavier. Playing baseball, basketball, and football there are so many games I look back on with fond memories. The games don’t come close to the memories I have of the friends I made. Between teachers, coaches and fellow students there is no better place to spend your high school career. I look back and realize the impact Xavier had on who I became. It taught me the values needed to live a life you can be proud of and have a positive impact on others. In my opinion, there is no better way to impact people’s lives than through sports. Every year my staff and I can create an unforgettable experience to over 500,000 people. That is pretty special and Xavier will always be a special place for me.
What’s happening ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Buddy Program
Teaches Leadership, Creates Friendships I recently heard one of Jerry Seinfeld’s comedy bits regarding children. He was talking about how for children, everything in life revolves around “up”. Here is a little of what he said, “…cause when you’re little, your life is up. The future is up. Everything you want is up. ‘Wait up! Hold up! Shut up! Mom, I’ll clean up! Let me stay up!’” Upon reflection, it is so true! One thing I have always noticed with my own children and others is that younger children “look up” to older children. We tell our older children to be mindful that they are role models and we hope our younger children look up to worthy role models. Both elementary campuses capitalize on this concept with their “Buddy Programs”. Our Xavier elementary campuses pair older students with younger students in our “Buddy Program”. Older buddies help their younger buddies with reading, projects, sitting still in Mass, reading in Mass, and many other activities.Younger buddies give their older buddies an excuse to do fun “little kid” things once again. Not only can older buddies be mentors and help the younger buddies with their reading, doing actitities and other things, they can make the younger buddy’s day when they say “hi” or high-five their younger buddy in the school hallway. Older children gain a sense of responsibility and often take pride in looking out for their younger buddies. Teachers put a lot of thought into the buddy pairings and often a bond forms. When my oldest son was in pre-school he was paired with two 4th grade boys. He loved having them as buddies and always
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"What I like most about having a buddy is that my buddy is kind, well-mannered, funny, and also, he is kind of like a brother to me. He is truly spectacular." - Owen McGreevey '27
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• Summer 2018
"I like being a big buddy. Because it comes with responsibility. Also it's a lot of fun. And definitely patience." - Adelyn Lumsden '27 looked forward to buddy time. Years went by and when our preschooler was in 5th grade his buddies were freshmen and one of them recognized him at a high school soccer game and sought him out to reminisce some and catch up. As a parent, it was a pretty cool reunion to witness. Our buddy programs are truly a treasure. Students look forward to their time with their buddies and teachers like to watch the relationships unfold. See the quotes for responses when the older buddies were asked to write about what they like about being a buddy; it’ll warm your heart.
"Something I really love about having a buddy is, they will be so kind and loving. I have the best time of my life with them!!!" - Josephine Congdon '27
"I like being a buddy because you get do fun things with them and they melt my heart. I like having a buddy because they are like a friend to me.." - Molly Schmidt '27 xaviercatholicschools.org
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What’s happening ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
The Importance of Volunteerism in the Elementary Years
The elementary school years are filled with so many firsts for parents and students alike. These years are filled with friendships, new challenges, and memories that end up lasting a lifetime. The elementary years go by so quickly, too. I still recall my own kindergarten teacher strumming her guitar as she sang songs to us on the carpet. I can still remember the hooks that I hung my backpack on year after year. I remember the great feeling of seeing my artwork hanging in the halls of the school. I also remember holding my first-born child, looking at her and saying, “Someday she’ll be in kindergarten!” That feels like yesterday, but now my first-born will be a freshman at Xavier High School this fall. It is hard to believe that one of my children has already completed her middle school years, and that my third-born, and youngest, will be in fourth grade at the Marquette Street campus, all too soon completing his time in the elementary level of the Xavier Catholic School System. While the time has flown by, I have so many fond memories of my children’s elementary years. I was fortunate enough to volunteer many hours of my time and talents for the school. This was a blessing, as I had a chance to see my children thrive in an environment in which they spend most of their waking hours. Volunteering allowed me to more intricately weave home and school life together. I found myself making new friendships just as my kids were. I felt an extra special connection and sense of pride with and for the school, as I spent more time there. And when I ask my kids how they felt about me being there, they said it was nice because they got to see me more often, and they would get excited to see me in their school. They also said they were proud to have their friends see me volunteering, and that they felt lucky to have me there. There are many ways parents, grandparents, extended relatives, and friends can get involved by volunteering their time and talents. Many people believe that you can only volunteer if you don’t work outside of the home. That is the furthest from the truth. There are all kinds of volunteer opportunities that vary in time
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commitment and level of responsibility. While a lot of volunteering is done during the school day, such as lunchroom or library duty, or chaperoning a field trip, a lot of things can be done “behind the scenes”, on your own time at home, such as being a new family mentor, counting box tops, or helping with system-wide fundraisers, such as Celebrate or Food Fair. Laura Kalinosky-Sanchez, a parent of a third grader, says, “I really love helping out whenever I can because I get to see my daughter in her school environment, which is very different from home. I get to know her friends and teachers much better than I would if I never had a presence at school, and I also to know the other school staff quite a bit better than I otherwise would. There are so many people who work for the benefit of our children every single day—teachers, principals, office staff, teaching assistants, custodial staff, Home and School volunteers, etc. Volunteering is my small way of giving back to those people and to the school community at large. I feel like part of a larger school community by being active as a volunteer.” Shannon Callies, another parent at the Marquette campus, has been volunteering at the school for 6 years, and she isn’t about to take a back seat anytime soon, as she will step into the position of co-lead for the Home & School Association for Xavier Elementary for the 20182019 school year. She says, “It has been such a great way for me to truly experience the Xavier Difference, and what our school has to offer. Being involved has allowed me to meet some amazing people that do so many great things for our school. I’ve grown deeper in my faith by seeing Jesus working in all of these wonderful people. It truly has been a blessing and a gift for me to be a part of such a great school. I encourage anyone, no matter the amount of time, big or small, to volunteer. It will change your life."
Summoned to Serve
Summone
Under the patronage of St. Francis Xavier, we strive to live our lives through his example. Joining Ignatius of Loyola in the 16th century, he was one of the first members of the Society of Jesus, or the Jesuits. At Xavier, we incorporate many of those early guidelines and values that Francis incorporated into his own life. We believe in: • Opportunities for service that are rooted in the Gospel values of faith, hope, justice, and love. Our students and faculty look for ways in which we can better the lives of those around us. • “Cura Personalis,” or care for the whole person. We look for ways in which we can care for others by recognizing the uniqueness of each child of God. Based on living these values, our students live with a year-round commitment to service. Here’s just a small sampling of events that took place over the past year: Xavier High School The graduating Class of 2018 completed over 23,000 service hours during their time in high school! • At the Ethel Moehring Help Your Neighbor Day, nearly 1,000 students, faculty, parents, and staff fanned out through the community to provide service to the homebound, elderly, not-for-profit agencies, and our Appleton parishes!
• Students participated in the March for Life to Washington, DC in January; a Homeless Vigil, to call attention to the plight of those without jobs, food, or shelter; and fundraising and volunteer hours for Homeless Connections and various food pantries. • At the parish level, our students serve as lectors, altar servers, ushers, and Eucharistic ministers. Through service to the parish they are active in groundskeeping, fish fries, and babysitting. Xavier Middle School
• During Advent, our 8th grade students made rosaries for 3rd grade students; 7th grade students decorated cookies for nursing home residents; 6th grade students made blankets for the homeless; and 5th grade students made dog treats for a local animal shelter. 38
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ed to Serve
Summoned to Serve
• 8th Grade students visited Feeding America, and the religion classes visited Bethesda Thrift Shop. Xavier Elementary School At both of our campuses, Marquette St. and McDonald St., each of our students learned at an early age the importance of doing things for those less fortunate than ourselves. • In February, our two campuses combined to raise nearly $15,000 for the American Heart Association through “Jump Rope for Heart”
• As part of a contest, 1 ½ tons of plastic bags were recycled over a period of a few months, Marquette St. won the competition and received a Trex bench made of recycled plastic. • Books, diapers, baby wipes, toothpaste, and food items were collected for the Appleton Homeless Shelter, Harbor House, Milwaukee Children’s Hospital families, the Warming Shelter, Mother and Unborn Baby Care, and many others!
Each year the second grade at the Marquette St. campus participates in blanket making for a family in our community. In addition, we recently received a thank you note that accompanies the photo on right. Here’s what one of the student’s moms had to say: “Thank you, Mrs. Whitman and Xavier Catholic School System for helping to beautifully instill the gift of service in my children. Today (we) took Vincent's flower and blanket to a friend’s mom, Clara. She was moved beyond what we expected and said it was one of the greatest gifts she’s ever received. She said it was truly precious to her…We shared some good tears. The kind of tears that move you to hug someone you’ve never hugged before and kiss their sweet forehead.”
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 66
Xavier Pride Worldwide!
Greg Buss ‘73, along with his wife Tina Brouillard Buss and 30 other teachers and spouses from Ave Maria Academy - Maple Grove, MN traveled to the Holy Land on a pilgrimage over Christmas break 2017-18.
Joel Pfaff ‘24 and Ethan Pfaff ‘21 visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception while on a Spring Break trip to Washington, D.C.
Over Spring Break, the Hawk showed up in 'Cranberry Country'Tomah, WI. Mary Loker '21 took the picture at her grandparents' home with her mom, dad, grandparents and brother in the picture.
In April, a group of XMS students stopped to show off their Xavier “X” while at a State German contest at Marquette University.
1600 W. Prospect Avenue Appleton, WI 54914
Show your pride for Xavier! Maybe you live out of state, the country, or are planning a trip somewhere. We encourage all Xavier supporters to pack the Hawk or make an “X”, simply snap a photo and email to Xmagazine@xaviercatholicschools.org.