Saints in the Seminary Table of Contents Holy Land Pilgrimage

Saints in the Seminary Table of Contents Holy Land Pilgrimage...... 3 Alumnus Answers God’s Call...... 4 Celebrating 25 Years...... 6 Hall of Fame...... 7 Giving Corner...... 8 Teacher Profile...... 9 Seminarians Evan Tinker, ’03, John Trecker, ’04, and Saints Marrying Saints...... 11 Jamie Zarse, ’05, visited Saint Thomas Aquinas in May to Where are They Going?...... 12 speak with sophomores during seminar. Pictured here are John and Jamie with Theology teacher April Bailey, who Student Highlights...... 14 arranged the visits. Class Notes...... 17 Front Cover In Memoriam...... 19 Archbishop Joseph Naumann, ordaining Winter & Spring Sports...... 20 Bishop and Principal Celebrant at the Holy Trivia Challenge...... 22 Mass of Ordination on June 18, 2011 performs Reunions...... 23 the ancient and apostolic tradition of the Laying On of Hands. Later in the liturgy, Father Vince The Saints Spirit magazine is a publication of the Saint Huber, Class of 2000, Thomas Aquinas Advancement Office. We welcome your comments or questions. Call or write: blesses the Archbishop as an ordained priest. Bryan Thrasher Photos courtesy of The Leaven. Director of Communications [email protected] Saint Thomas Aquinas High School 11411 Pflumm Road Overland Park, Kansas 66215-4816 913.319.2425

William Ford, Ed.D. President

Teresa Ahrens Director of Special Events Renewing your magazine subscriptions is now easier than ever and also a great way to support the students at Saint Mary Bridget Kratofil Thomas Aquinas High School! Anytime you see a magazine Director of Media Relations you would like to receive at your home or when your Michon Quick subscription is about to lapse, simply go to www.qsp.com, Director of Alumni & Constituent Relations and use school account #425007423. All profits from the Cindy Winkler sale support student extra-curricular activities, which are Advancement Office Manager an integral part of each student’s development while here at Saint Thomas Aquinas. Order or renew your favorite Special thanks to Michelle Gress, photographer magazines and help support the Saints!

2 COMMUNITY EVENTS Holy Land Community Calendar August Pilgrimage 4 ��POSTPONED: Class of 2011 Yearbook Signing 12 ��Freshman-Parent Gift Gathering for Extravaganza 25th Year Celebration 13 ��Sophomore-Parent Gift Gathering for Extravaganza Kickoff 18 ��First Day of School 19 ��Junior-Parent Gift Gathering for Extravaganza June 9-20, 2012 20 ��Senior-Parent Gift Gathering for Extravaganza with Mike Scherschligt, Catholic Theologian 21 ��Class of 2015 Freshman Mass & Picnic and School of Faith Director 24 ��Holy Land Pilgrimage Presentation 31 ��Parent Back-to-School Night Trip Highlights: Daily Mass, Scripture Teachings and Guided Spiritual Reflections: September six (6) nights in Jerusalem, three (3) nights at 1 ��All-School Mass of the Holy Spirit* Sea of Galilee. Current 2011 pricing (subject to 2 ��Blue & Gold Kickoff Event change for 2012): $3995 per person – includes 11 ��Saints Mass & Supper at KU: St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center airfare from Kansas City; daily breakfast, light 22 ��Homecoming All-School Mass* lunch, and dinner; airport transfers, tours, 23 ��Homecoming Tailgate and Football Game vs. Blue Valley Northwest entrance fees as noted on itinerary, tips, 23 ��All-Years Alumni Mixer after the Homecoming Game – gratuities and all taxes. Saints Pub & Patio, 97th & Quivira (new location) 23 ��Class of 1996 15-Year Class Reunion Join us for an Informational Presentation: 23 ��Class of 1956 55-Year Class Reunion Wednesday, August 24, 2011 October 7:00-9:30 PM 1 ��Class of 1961 50-Year Reunion Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at 2 ��Saints Mass & Lunch at K-State: St. Isadore’s Catholic Campus Center Saint Thomas Aquinas High School 20 ��Grandparents Day Mass* 22 ��Class of 2001 10-Year Reunion (northwest corner of the building) 30 ��Open House

If you cannot attend the informational November meeting or have questions, please contact 1 ��All Saints Day All-School Mass* Michon Quick, Director of Alumni & 12 ��Extravaganza Constituent Relations, at [email protected] 22 ��Thanksgiving All-School Mass* or 913-319-2437. 26 ��Class of 2006 5-Year Reunion December Mike Scherschligt, founder and Director of School 8 ��Feast of the Immaculate Conception All-School Mass* of Faith, has a Licentiate in Sacred Theology 21 ��First Day of Christmas Break (STL) from the Marianum in Rome and previously taught at the Saint Lawrence Catholic Center at January 2012 the University of Kansas for ten years. School of 4 ��Second Semester Begins Faith offers doctrinal and spiritual formation for 7 ��Placement Test, Class of 2016 Catholics through catechetical programs that stress the call to prayer, virtue, and holiness of life, with February 2012 a particular emphasis on mentoring those who have 2 ��Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas Mass* the responsibility to teach the faith to others. The 4 ��Saints Trivia Challenge in the Commons School of Faith program currently teaches over 1200 8 ��Mass of Remembrance Mass, 7 p.m. in the Chapel individuals including students at the University of *All are welcome to attend All-School Masses at Saint Thomas Aquinas! Please Kansas, parishioners and Catholic school teachers check the school website to confirm the date and time. Most liturgies begin at throughout the Archdiocese of Kansas City 9:30 a.m. in the Gym. in Kansas.

www.stasaints.net 3 Feature Saint Huber Takes Priestly Vows in students on campus. His relationship Solemn Ceremony with God strengthened through his ever-growing commitment to prayer, something he learned from his mentor, Monsignor Vince Krische – long-time director of the St. Lawrence Center. “Msgr. Krische taught us how to go deeper with our prayer and ask God for His intercession in our lives,” says Fr. Vince. “One semester he met several of us every morning at 6 a.m. for the Liturgy of the Hours. Sometimes only the two of us showed up. My passion for prayer strengthened even more.” Father Vince celebrated with his sisters at Saint Thomas Aquinas after his Ordination. From left to right: Jessie Huber, ’02, Lindsey Huber, ’05, and Tricia Huber, ’03. Around this time, Msgr. Krische met the Sisters of the Apostles of When Vince Huber was seven or emerging order founded in Rome in Interior Life at a conference in eight years old, Monsignor Tom Tank 2007 by Father Salvatore Scorza. Champagne, Illinois, and invited was having dinner with the Huber Debbie Huber, the young priest’s them to Lawrence, Kansas. With family at their home in Leawood, mom, says that Vince was like every Kansas. He asked Vince if he might little boy growing up. “He really did like to be a priest. Vince replied, “I think he would play major league “As parents we taught would consider it, but only after I’m baseball – especially when he learned our kids about their done with my professional baseball that Bo Jackson’s real name was also career.” ‘Vincent Edward!’” Vince played faith growing up. Ordained into the Holy Order baseball through high school as a of Priests on June 18, 2011, Father left-handed pitcher and first baseman Now, Father Vince Vincent Edward Huber, class of 2000, for the Saints. “He wanted to play constantly leads me became the first graduate of Saint in college but because of his size, he Thomas Aquinas High School (est. decided to follow in his dad’s footsteps to grow deeper in 1988) to become a priest. “I may be and study Civil Engineering at the the first,” he said at a celebration with University of Kansas.” my relationship family and friends in the school’s Vince began discerning his vocation with God.” Commons, “but I am surely not the while at KU but not formally until last.” his junior year. Debbie remembers Debbie Huber, alumni parent and mother Through the ancient and apostolic that Vince became active at the Saint of Father Vince Huber, ’00. tradition of the Laying On of Hands, Lawrence Catholic Campus Center Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann during his freshman year when he ordained five men – Father Vince and his roommate/fellow Saint, Brett the blessing of Archbishop James Huber from Kansas, Father Edward Gaughan, ‘00, signed up for a School Keleher, three sisters from the Rome- Ahn and Father Scott Kallal from of Faith class – then part of KU’s based community took up residence Illinois, and Father Mirco Sosio and nationally recognized Catechetical at the Center and began to actively Deacon Alessandro Borraccia from Institute. participate in the formation of Italy. Four of these men made history Over the next couple of years Catholic students on campus. A trail by becoming the first priests of the Vince continued his involvement in was blazed. Apostles of the Interior Life, an the community created for Catholic

4 Feature Saint

The female branch of the Apostles for the Interior Life was founded in Rome over two decades ago, in 1990 by Fr. Salvatore. As Vince was making a decision on where to further his studies, Sister Tiziana, spiritual director and consecrated woman of the Apostles, encouraged Vince to pray about his calling and consider the ministry of her community. In the meantime, Fr. Salvatore was contemplating the establishment of a male branch of the Apostles. In 2004, after much prayer and discernment, Vince Huber and several other men decided to move to Rome and take vows of poverty, chastity and Alumni parents Debbie and Randy Huber wait with their son Deacon Vince Huber, ’00, to obedience in preparation to become process into Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Overland Park, Kansas, for his ordination into the priests. Because the Apostles did and priesthood. do not yet have the canonical status of a religious order, Archbishop Park, Kansas, Archbishop Naumann sisters, Jessie Huber, ’02, Tricia Naumann extended a welcome emphasized the significant role of Huber, ’03, and Lindsey Huber, ’05, hand to assist the community as a each ordinandi’s family, especially all present to witness their brother’s diocese while the men studied under the parents. “Each of these men has special moments. “I was raised with Fr. Salvatore in Italy. By agreement been given great grace because of the three girls, surely so that I could be a between the Apostles and archdiocese, faith of their parents to grow up in good minister to women through my the men will split time between Rome a strong and believing family where vocation.” He giggled, “Since one of and northeast Kansas. faith was celebrated and lived,” said my sisters is blonde, one is brunette, During the Ordination Mass at the archbishop. and one is a red-head, I should pretty Holy Spirit Church in Overland “These men have received the much have all the personalities beautiful example of parents faithfully covered!” living their marriage vows,” he Then, reaching in his pocket, Fr. continued. “They have seen in the Vince explained to the congregation lives of their parents what God’s the meaning of the liturgical cloth grace can accomplish in those who used to wipe the chrism oil from his surrender their lives to Our Lord and blessed hands at the ordination. “As is seek to follow Him on the path of customary, a new priest presents this heroic love.” cloth to his parents at his First Mass.” During his First Mass at Church He paused, and continued, “This of the Nativity on the day following cloth should be buried alongside my his ordination, Fr. Vince recognized mother so that when she arrives at many people who have influenced the Pearly Gates of Heaven, she can and supported him along the way. He present it to St. Peter and say, ‘I gave invited his advisor Msgr. Krische to to Him my son.’” give the homily, a customary gesture. Vince’s parents honored their He thanked Father Francis Hund, son in the 2000 edition of the Saint pastor at his home parish of Nativity, Thomas Aquinas High School for his support, and well as many Medallion Yearbook, with his senior Investiture of Father Vince by Father Francis others who were instrumental in his ad reading, “Dear Vince: Always Hund, pastor at Church of the Nativity and formation. remember: work hard, follow your brother of STA Math Department chair Before thanking his parents, Fr. dreams and make the pathway lead to Cathryn Hund Radiel. Vince recognized his three little God.” As usual, parents know best.

www.stasaints.net 5 Celebrating 25 Years Celebrating 25 years of growing in knowledge, guided by Catholic values A headline that ran in The Kansas June 2012 November 2012 City Star newspaper on August 5, Mirocke Golf Classic (Monday, June 4) 1987, announced: Construction of Saints Trip to the Holy Land 25th Annual Saints Extravaganza high school is on schedule. (June 9 – 20; see related information, page 3) Saturday, November 10, 2012 The article further stated that a August 2012 fall 1988 opening was anticipated Extravaganza Parent Gift Gathering Parties December 2012 of a new Catholic high school in a Class of 2016 Freshman Mass & Picnic Fine Arts Week field at 114th Street and Pflumm Road in Overland Park– the name of January 2013 the school would be ‘Saint Thomas Mark Your Calendar! Inaugural Alumni/Parent March-for-Life Trip Aquinas.’ to Washington D.C. Sunday, August 12, 2012 And so it began. Saints Trivia Challenge “25 Years of Saints” Five thousand six hundred thirty- Community Kickoff Mass & Picnic February 2013 six graduates, three major building Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas Mass expansions and nearly two-and-a- Mass of Remembrance half decades later, we are gearing up September 2012 to celebrate 25 years of providing Blue & Gold Kickoff exceptional Catholic secondary Grandparents Day Mass Hall of Fame Gala education for families of the Saturday, February 23, 2013 Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. October 2012 Hall of Fame Gala Homecoming Mass, Tailgate The quarter-century milestone will and Football Game actually kick off in 2012 with a year- Homecoming All-Years Alumni Reunion long line-up of events* celebrating our March 2013 Community Service Mass legacy of successful students, generous Open House parents and dedicated teachers. April 2013 We’re starting Saints Walk for Life to plan now, so Dinner Theatre Save These Dates! EVERYONE is May 2013 invited to join – Class of 2013 Graduation – 25th Class of Saint Thomas Aquinas current students High School and parents, alumni, parents of alumni, faculty, Senior Mass and Luncheon for staff, friends, the Class of 1989 former faculty Thursday, May 9, 2013 and Archdiocesan Celebrating the first graduating class priests! Each one of of Saint Thomas Aquinas you is a member of High School our Communion of Saints!

The 1986 Kansas City Star

6 Hall of Fame Announcing the Saint Thomas Aquinas High School Hall-of-Fame Awards Program Saint Thomas Aquinas High School is pleased to announce the establishment of its Hall-of-Fame Awards Program to formally recognize alumni, parents and friends that help define and advance the institution and its mission. Hall-of-Fame Awards will be announced and bestowed on the first class of recipients during the 2012-2013 academic year in celebration of Saint Thomas Aquinas - 25 Years. Moving forward, the school will accept nominations and honor new recipients at an annual induction celebration. Nominations are currently being accepted for the Alumni Award and Distinguished Service Award. Below are descriptions of each award, and also an outline of selection criteria and the nomination process. You may also access this information at www.stasaints.net/HallofFame. Alumni Award This recognition honors alumni who have exemplified dedication and faithfulness to the mission and ideals of Saint Thomas Aquinas High School through exceptional personal or professional accomplishment. Nominations for this award are accepted on an ongoing basis from all STA constituencies, and selected annually by an appointed Selection Committee. Recipients must be graduates of at least ten years from Saint Thomas Aquinas High School. This award can also be given posthumously. Distinguished Service Award This honor is given to a person or persons who by example represent the beliefs and ideals of Saint Thomas Aquinas High School. Qualities for induction include outstanding achievement in a person’s profession, vocation or avocation, selfless dedication and involvement that have led to the growth, expansion or continued development of Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, and/or significantly influencing the lives of students through commitment to and enthusiasm for personifying the mission of Saint Thomas Aquinas High School. Recipients can include friends and benefactors from all STA constituencies. Nominations are accepted on an ongoing basis, and recipients are selected annually by an appointed Selection Committee. Marian Award This award is bestowed upon faculty, staff, and administrators of Saint Thomas Aquinas High School for their life-long commitment to the ideals and values of Saint Thomas Aquinas High School. Recipients of this award are identified and selected by the President and/or Board of Trustees, and can be conferred at any time during the recipient’s tenure. This honor may also be given posthumously. Teachers who have received the Marion Award include Saints Hall-of-Fame Awards Program Jim Enneking, Dennis and Geri Hord, Bonnie Patrick and Bob Aley. a. All nominees must demonstrate Catholic values that represent Saint Thomas Aquinas High School and its mission within the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. b. “Exceptional professional or personal achievement” shall be deemed appropriate and worthy of recognition as determined by the Selection Committee. c. Areas of “outstanding achievement in profession, vocation or avocation” may include – but not are not limited to – fields of industry, religion, science, business, the arts, medicine, the military, or athletics.

Additional criteria and information about the selection process is located at www.stasaints.net/halloffame

www.stasaints.net 7 Celebrating 25 Years Charitable Giving Corner Endowment Gifts Although there are many long-term needs for Saint Charitable Bequests Thomas Aquinas High School, at the heart of the school’s Including a charitable bequest as part of your Will current efforts is our response to the call as set forth by or Living Trust – or naming the school as a beneficiary United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to provide on your retirement plan or life insurance policy – is a affordable and accessible Catholic secondary education for wonderful way for you to provide visionary support for all our families. In order to meet the increasing demand Saint Thomas Aquinas High School while also effectively for financial assistance, Saint Thomas Aquinas High managing your estate. Charitable bequests are not subject School must increase its endowment. to estate or inheritance taxes and therefore reduce the tax burden of an estate. During the past decade, the percentage of families receiving tuition assistance at STA has increased from If you have already named Saint Thomas Aquinas High 8.7% to over 23%. In 2010-11, $745,725 in financial School in your Will, Living Trust, retirement plan or life assistance was disbursed so that families could continue to insurance policy, please let us know so that we can properly provide Catholic secondary education for their children. thank you! That figure is expected to exceed $800,000 during this fiscal year. An endowed scholarship fund that honors or memorializes a loved one can be established with a gift of $25,000 or more. The principal balance of the fund may be added to at any time, thus generating a greater amount of interest income. You may choose to make installments toward establishing a named endowed fund over a period of five years. The STA Advancement Office can help you finalize your Letter of Gift, which will establish your named endowed scholarship according to your wishes. Your gift and legacy will be held in perpetuity for the benefit of Saint Thomas Aquinas High School for generations to come. If you would like more information about Endowment, Honor & Memory or Charitable Bequest programs at Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, please contact Michon Quick at 913-319-2437 or [email protected] Memorial and Honor Gifts There are several ways to memorialize those who are dear to you. Gifts of any amount may be designated for the Saint Thomas Aquinas High School General Honor & Memory Fund to memorialize deceased persons, honor living persons, or commemorate anniversaries or other special events. Proceeds generated from this fund are designated for tuition assistance and faculty enrichment. You may also designate a Memorial gift in lieu of flowers or as an additional sentiment to honor someone who has recently passed away, such as a family member of a friend. Please provide contact information so that we may let the family know of your kind gesture.

8 Faculty Spotlight Engineer turns teacher and joins faculty at Saint Thomas Aquinas Conversation with a fellow Little League coach and reflection on how to make physics more interesting prompt local businessman and STA dad to go back to school

John Tompkins admits that seeing didn’t necessarily evolve in the names of his children’s teachers on classroom but rather developed desks when he first walked across the mostly through experiential threshold into the faculty room at learning from camping trips, Saint Thomas Aquinas High School photography, building models, was very humbling. “I didn’t really and a backyard telescope. know any of them. But I felt like I did His first exposure to career by how they’ve helped my children.” possibilities came through an John and his wife, Connie, are the 8th grade school assignment parents of four STA Saints: alumni when he interviewed one of the Annie, ’00, Beth, ’02, and Johnny, lead architects for the Truman ’06, and current sophomore Julie. Sports Complex. Connie grew up in Topeka’s Sacred “Seeing some of the original Heart parish community and attended concepts on paper resolved into Hayden High School. John attributes a scale model was compelling Connie and her parents, Raymond – particularly the rolling roof and Julia Etzel, for introducing him on railroad tracks,” John to the Catholic faith and instituting remembers. Mr. Tompkins helps a student test his rocket. the importance of Catholic education Growing up in Prairie Village, in their lives. Saint Thomas Aquinas John played golf with his brother Upon earning his Bachelor High School has been a supportive James through high school. And of Science degree from KSU in extension of their family life and also like most of his experiences, John Mechanical Engineering, John worked of their parish community, Prince of still turns the sport into a learning for Kansas City-based engineering Peace in Olathe. opportunity. “Golf provides many firm Burns & McDonnell, designing Now at age 56 and beginning his life skills -- observation, patience, equipment for electric utility third year as a high school Physics attention to detail, rules, problem- companies. John describes working teacher, John Tompkins wants to pass solving, competing with Mother with an experienced project team on the lessons he’s learned and also Nature, and overall respect.” to design and implement emission help students and families recognize John attended Johnson County control technology for coal fired the integral importance of Catholic Community College for one year power plants as a “great adventure faith and tradition in the many facets after high school and then transferred in problem solving, drawing, of their lives. to Kansas State University to study modeling, outdoors, and a meaningful engineering. He considers himself contribution towards cleaning up the Engineering Education fortunate for having “close friends environment.” – Business Background – who were amazing thinkers, outdoor Six years after graduation, John Genuine Curiosity adventurers and problem solvers,” asked his father about joining the and were motivated simply for the John has always allowed his curiosity family business, which provided love of knowledge rather than the to lead him. A 1973 graduate of custom-engineered equipment for the accumulation of points. Shawnee Mission East High School, power industry. His father welcomed John says his interest in science the opportunity and made John an

www.stasaints.net 9 Faculty Spotlight

offer that included a 30% pay-cut based on his limited experience. Recognizing another chance to learn and grow, John accepted his dad’s proposal. “My father challenged me to think through what clients need most to help their businesses be successful,” explained John. “He taught me that a business must operate with the highest standard of ethics, have a clear mission statement, learn from loss, and manage success. And that there is no such thing as failure, but rather that things sometimes don’t work. Mostly, he taught me that the energy business will always have great challenges to resolve into John Tompkins, second from right, in December 2010 with his family, left to right: son Johnny, opportunities.” ‘06, daughter Julie - class of 2014, wife Connie, daughter Beth, ’02, son-in-law John Kearney, During his 25 years in the energy ’02, and daughter Annie, ’00. equipment business, John developed ourselves. I mentioned to my good on science/theology expeditions an interest in volunteering for his friend/fellow coach and STA alumni with faculty, administrators and community which also provided parent Bill Haefele, that hanging students. My experiences through him with some separation from out with kids – not necessarily our the Bishop Ward community along the challenges of managing a small own – and teaching them how to with good counsel from the school’s business. John’s volunteer projects hit, throw and catch would be a nice president Fr. Michael Hermes include work for the City of Olathe, endeavor. Known as ‘Dr. Haefele’ helped me understand the great youth baseball, the neighborhood at Rockhurst University where he history of Catholic education in homes association, Prince of Peace is Vice President for Academic our Archdiocese, the significant Catholic Church, Bishop Ward High Affairs & Student Development, Bill contribution that Bishop Ward is School and the Archdiocese of Kansas responded that there is a great need making in our community today, and City in Kansas. for Physics teachers. He urged me that teaching was an opportunity that A Teacher Emerges to get my transcripts together and I wanted to formalize. “ said he would set up the meeting John’s evolution from businessman John has had lots of help along with the chair of the Education the way and recognizes a few key to teacher was a slow process that department at Rockhurst. I ran the seemed almost inevitable. mentors. “When I was doubting my thought of teaching by Dr. Kathy journey, Steve Kucharo, a classmate “For such a big change, it took O’Hara (Superintendent of Schools and science teacher at Resurrection a number of situations and events for the Archdiocese) with whom I School in Kansas City, Kansas, took including years of coaching baseball had served on the Prince of Peace me into his classroom at 9 p.m. on a and working with youth, time School Council. She agreed that the Friday night and concept-mapped why spent contemplating how science opportunity seemed viable, and gave I needed to keep working on finishing could be taught in schools for more me a volunteer assignment at Bishop my graduate degree. Saint Thomas meaningful learning, a downturn in Ward High School which lasted for Aquinas science department head, Iris business, and – I don’t want to use the next seven years. Flournoy, and STA science teacher Joe the word ‘retirement’ which sounds “I worked with the Archdiocese to Orrick helped me through the process like “tired”— an opportunity to try secure a grant for math and science of getting certified to teach Physics. something new. education at Bishop Ward through And my daughter Annie, a teacher “I remember a conversation during the Kauffman Foundation. I joined herself at Bishop Ward High School, a Little League baseball game, when a project team to rebuild the St. also provided tremendous support. we had a big lead and as coaches Albert Room of Chemistry at the we were feeling pretty good about school, and traveled across Kansas

10 Saints Marrying Saints Combining Faith and Reason When asked what has been the greatest challenge going from the John has made it a priority to make business world to the educational physics enjoyable to learn by infusing arena, John answered, “I’m lots of hands-on experiments related continually learning how to manage to the subject matter. He genuinely the pace of a really fast day. Mornings wants his students to be fired up start at 6:00 a.m. and the day lasts about science but, most of all, about into the evening. Recently I shared learning. Teaching in a Catholic with some former business associates school adds an additional benefit for the concept of going to work each John – his own faith enrichment. Monday and seeing 123 clients in 5 ”The Catholic Church has a rich hours and 41 minutes while making history in the sciences and having the sure that each one’s needs is taken opportunity to teach at Saint Thomas care of. And that’s just on Monday!” Aquinas has really helped me in my Getting to know each student is own formation. Just walking by the another enormous challenge that chapel each day is a reminder of why teachers face, one that requires a we are here. The development of a different strategy than the business Physics lesson-plan that is aligned not world. Most important is how to only with the State of Kansas and apply the school mission statement the Archdiocese, but also through in helping each student be successful, the writings of St. Thomas Aquinas which is John’s goal in developing himself has been an incredible lesson plans. Bridge building in John Tompkins’ physics learning experience for me. St. class. Thomas Aquinas said, “We must first “As a society, I believe we are start by believing, and then we will sometimes so focused on points that “Why do I need to know this?” be led on to master the evidence for the overall mission is missed. I learned Making learning meaningful through ourselves.” What better fit is there for through my own son’s question as inquiry-based instruction is critical a teacher to work in an environment he was studying for a history test, in developing problem solvers rather where science and religion do not than professional test-takers.” conflict?” Saints Marrying Saints Tompkins - Kearney Beth Tompkins, ‘02, and John Kearney, ‘02, were married on December 4, 2010, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church with Fr. Frank Burger presiding. The couple met during their sophomore year of high school ~ John sat behind Beth in their Social Justice class. Years later, at a friend’s wedding, they were reintroduced and starting dating. John is a History teacher at Alta Back row, from left: Chris Overman, ‘02, Liz Novacek, ‘02, Mary St. George, ‘02, Abby Geist, Vista Charter High School in Kansas ‘06, Annie Tompkins, ‘00 (maid of honor); Front row, girls-side from left: Julie Tompkins, ‘14), City, Missouri, and Beth is a Nurse Alicia Heins, Sarah Dorward. Practitioner at Women’s Clinic of Bride and Groom: Beth Tompkins, ‘02, and John Kearney, ‘02 Johnson County. The couple resides Back row, boys’ side from left: Joe Kearney (best man), Kelly Kearney, Luke Kearney, Kyle Moore, ‘02, Chris Grindinger, ‘02; Front row, boys from left: Dan O’Connell, Mike Conlan, ‘02, John in Overland Park. Tompkins, ‘06.

www.stasaints.net 11 12 Where Are They Going? This list is representative of what was reported by students as of May 9, 2011. College Bound map courtesy of Carole Trickey and Murphy Marx.

www.stasaints.net 13 Student highlights Highlights of a very good year at Saint Thomas Aquinas! This year has been a banner one a first- or second-place win for the performers and musicians. Our that will be hard to top. Barely a Saints. It seemed as if an unseen faith tells us that we need to look no week went by that the morning force was fueling the efforts of further than the presence of the Holy announcements didn’t broadcast our academic and athletic teams, Spirit among us to thank for His special gifts.

Wall Don’t Lie! 2011 Saints Debate Team: Coach Steve When Debate Coach Steve DuBois DuBois, Michelle took center stage to introduce his McOskar, Jack Goza, 2011 State-Champion Debate team, Maggie Bernard, Casey he didn’t have a script in front of Hancock, Amanda him, but his mantra – borrowed from Gress, Anthony Frook, a professional basketball player – of Taylor Ruisch and “Ball Don’t Lie!” echoed all day long Zach Watson throughout the school. A former debater himself, DuBois was at ease with the microphone as he described Repetition of the phrase, “Ball don’t Since Mr. DuBois’ infamous speech, the debate team’s climb to the top of lie”, drew loud cheers and applause the halls of STA have resonated with 5A competition. while providing the perfect overture a fitting “Wall Don’t Lie” exclamation His voice resonated throughout the to his introduction of the 5A State of all that Saint Thomas Aquinas gym as he addressed allegations that Champion Debate team consisting students have achieved this year and Saint Thomas Aquinas is “all about of: sophomore Taylor Ruisch, juniors since the school’s inception in 1988. state championships.” Pointing to Jack Goza and Zach Watson, seniors To date, 68 state championship the large crucifix on the south wall, Michelle McOskar, Casey Hancock, banners hang in the school gym, DuBois proclaimed, “This is who we Anthony Frook, Maggie Bernard and underneath the prominent image and are!” followed by, “God asks us to pray Amanda Gress. reason for our existence: Christ on the and this is vital. . . He also gives us Cross. talents and abilities . . . when we take them and make the most of them, we Trombonist Paul Radke are celebrating God’s glory by putting had an incredible senior them to use.” year beginning with being chosen the first To those who claim that sports rule, high school senior from DuBois referred to the 56 students the state of Kansas to honored for their over 100 extra participate in the US hours of service to the community, Army All-American Bowl the penny drive for needy Catholic Marching Band, a 2010 schools and the canned food drive finalist in the US Marine that resulted in over 62,000 items President’s Own collected for Catholic Charities. concerto competition and being a part of the He cited the 2010-11 State Debate MENC National Honor championship as evidence that we are Band. a school that excels in academics while pointing to the banner declaring, “And this is who we are!”

14 Student Highlights President’s Service Award The following students received the President’s Service Award for over 100 hours of service during the 2009-10 academic year. They were recognized after an all-school Mass in April.

Freshmen 09-10 Mackenzie Lutz Mary Kate Pruett Matthew McKernan Ted Clemons Chris Miller Rebekah Tyler Emily Spencer Jillian Pfaff Michael Short Ellie Coater Sarah Moore Erin Gartland Margaret Miller Meghan Zych Lisa Larcom Sarah Coplen Marissa Morgan Moira Reilly Michael Schugart Bridget Dupin Katie Gould James Dold Kelsey Nygren Catherine Kluempers Carly Van Blaricum Libby Voda Margaret Waggoner Hallie Dusselier Clayton Pauls Emily Curran Will Male Paige Vickers Tayler Vena Erin Ebeling Bridget Petersen Jessica Satterfield Jennifer Reichmuth Katherine Elder Kelsey Thomeczek David Ecklund Libby Reichmuth Brian Gier Tess Halling Holly Hutchison Madeline Johnston Renee Flagler Annie Sneed Matt Clemons Jennifer Saxer Lillian Prince Erin Henderson Blakely Swanson Sophomores 09-10 Cari Olberding Molly Porter Matthew Hinck Laura Talken Matthew Mravunac Lauren Watson Ryan Smyth Seniors 09-10 Zach Horn Brigid Walton Emily Wheeler Emily Ewert Elizabeth Amaro Allyssa Adamany Alec Joseph Ashley Washburn Anna Jenkins Michael Hartung Kyle Ahern Katie Heit Matthew Wheeler Samuel Cunningham Juniors 09-10 Brad Matteuzzi Caroline Berko Sarah Kwapiszeski Meagan Wilderson Taylor Haak Brenna Lynch Laura Negley John Bertels Megan Lenhausen Daniel Woodward Scott Davis Matthew Castinado Natalie Bunker Anna Bono Adrienne Mather Elizabeth Zack Mary Bathon Taylor Schulte Anne Clark Audrey Boring Leslie Mecca Alexis Leiker Jack Whitney Anne Jansen Geoffrey Calvert Anastacia Miller

Show Choir / Band Award-Winning Musical Production After receiving top marks at The Saint Thomas the district level, 17 singers and Aquinas fall production of instrumentalists from Saint Thomas “West Side Story” resulted Aquinas qualified for the State Solo in an unprecedented eight and Small Ensemble Music Festival nominations for recognition in Newton, Kansas. These students at the Starlight Theater’s were: Caleb Brewer, Jordan Calovich, Blue Star Ceremony on Christy Jeffries, Mallory Keating, Dan May 26. Each year all high Killilea, Hannah Leiker, Katie Lind, schools in the metropolitan Members of the cast of West Side Story Katie Martin, Andrew Michuda, area are invited to participate performed at Starlight Theater for the prestigious Alex Nagle, Michael Peck, Paul in the prestigious and highly Blue Star Awards Ceremony. Radke, Annie Schugart and Andrew competitive Blue Star Awards Wahlberg. (Katie Gould, Molly Porter program which recognizes area performers, cast and crew for outstanding and Marie Gavin qualified but did work in musical theater. Remarks from Starlight adjudicators (which not participate.) The students were included theater professionals, performing artists, designers and theatre doubly challenged, especially singers, art educators) offered extremely positive comments about the Saints’ because the production of the modern musical production by Robbins/Bernstein/ music festival Sondheim of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The Saints cast and crew coincided was one of just six nominees for “Outstanding Overall Production” and with Dinner wereinvited to perform on the Starlight stage for the Blue Star Ceremony Theater which guests. In addition, Anthony Fortino performed solo for his Best Actor required two nomination as Tony. performances Saint Thomas Aquinas received EIGHT (!) nominations in the following in a day. categories: Outstanding Costume Design, Outstanding Technical Crew, Outstanding Actress in a Lead Role (Katie Martin), Outstanding Actor Abby Hadel accepting her award for in a Lead Role (Anthony Fortino), Outstanding Male Ensemble Member Outstanding Female Ensemble Member (Andrew Walberg), Outstanding Female Ensemble Members (Katie Bourk at the Blue Star Ceremony at Starlight Theater in May and Abby Hadel), Outstanding Overall Production.

www.stasaints.net 15 Student Spotlight We the People Forensics A senior course at Saint A combination of acting and public Thomas Aquinas that focuses on speaking in a competitive format, understanding America’s past and Forensics challenges students to educates students about government perform, think fast and be creative. and civics, We the People culminates The Saint Thomas Aquinas Forensics in an activity that develops critical team was strong from the beginning thinking skills. Each year more than of the year. After seven tournaments 1,200 high school students participate during second semester that resulted 2011 Catholic Forensics League champions, in the We the People national finals. in two first-place, four second-place left to right: Katie Gould, Katie Bolin, Katie The competition involves a simulated and one third-place finishes, the Gwynn, Rachel Stompoly, Jenna Rosberg, Katy congressional hearing. Students are Saints were named 2011 Catholic Wright, Anthony Fortino, Courtney Kern, divided into six different teams and Forensics League champions. Amanda Gress, Maggie Bernard, Jack Goza, each team is connected to a unit in Courtney Bollig This year the Saints qualified eight the We the People textbook. After students for the National Forensics qualifying for nationals, each small the competition, and most were in the League national tournament in team prepares three four-minute top third of the nation. Dallas in June, the most the school presentations over questions provided Forensics head coach Susan has had qualify in one year (the from the national panel. During Dillingham held in high regard the previous record was four). Two the competition, students give their 2011 team, stating: “We had a strong competitors made it to the top 60 in presentations followed by six minutes group of seniors this year, most of their respective events: Katie Gwynn of questioning from a panel of who have participated in competitive in Original Oration, and Courtney judges. Student-teams are scored on forensics all four years. Their hard Bollig in Humorous Interpretation. basic understanding and depth of work and subsequent success inspired All the Saints at the national knowledge on constitutional issues. other members of our team to do tournament scored in the top half of Katie Gould, Amanda Gress, and the extra work necessary to have an Michelle McOsker won first place excellent year.” in the Unit 6 award. The team researched and presented material on challenges that face American Scholars Bowl constitutional democracy in the 21st With three National century. Merit Semi-Finalists on her team this year, it came as no surprise to American History teacher and Scholars Bowl coach Elizabeth Vrabac that the team would do well. Practice began in August with the season running from October through February. The 2010-11 Scholars Bowl team and coaches, left to right: 1st row - senior Molly Porter, coach Elizabeth ‘We the People’ nationals team, left to right: The 2010-11 Scholars Bowl team competed in seven Vrabac, junior Claire Nuti; 2nd row - seniors 1st row - Katie Gwynn, Maureen Treacy, Ali Jonathan Shoulta and David Gier, sophomore Jason varsity tournaments, taking Kruse, Emily Wilson, Amanda Gress, David Gruenewald and assistant coach Nat Burstein Gier, Casey Hancock, and Mitchell Cota; second-place in three matches 2nd row – faculty moderator Amy Sudduth, and third-place in two others. Margaret Bernard, Jenna Rosberg, Mady The team also won third place in Washburn University’s Quest competition. Johnston, Katie Gould, Betsy Donahue, Rachel The Saints were one of the top eight ranked teams in the entire state of Stompoly, Katie Bolin, Michelle McOsker, Roz Kansas, and ended the season with the 5A Regional Runner-Up title. Vrabac Henn, and Molly Porter. was pleased with the caliber of competition this year, saying, “Scholars Bowl students are always enjoyable to work with. It takes practice and dedication to be as consistent as we were this year.”

16 Class Notes

Kansas. Nicole was a founding board member and the couple is actively involved in supporting Class of ’74 Blue Streaks create special of the LIVESTRONG Army of Kansas City, a nonprofit organization which supports the Lance wall-hanging quilt for Extravaganza Armstrong Foundation LIVESTRONG and the University of Kansas Cancer Center. A group of alumni gals from St. Joseph’s High School in 2000 Shawnee have been getting Allison Dreiling is a World History teacher together for years. Many of and varsity cheer coach at Basehor-Linwood High them have known each other School in Basehor, Kansas. since Kindergarten and were Jonathan Ossie is a project manager for classmates through high school R-Squared, a consulting and software group that graduation in 1974. helps global life-science companies develop more efficient and effective ways to adhere to web After an outing to Nell Hills compliance laws and regulations. He recently in Atchison where they saw some Quilters with ties to St. Joseph’s High School are Kathy received his Master of Business Administration Pinkelmann Benedick, ’74, Karen Roberts Horn,’74, Lida (MBA) from the University of San Diego and was beautiful hand-made quilts, Wurtenberger (honorary graduate*), and Carol Wurtenberger a Dean’s Merit Scholar. During this 16-month several members of the group Losey, ‘74. (Not present: Patty McGrew McKiernan, ’74.) fast-track program, he studied abroad in over 15 decided it would be fun to learn countries. Before this he was a consultant for IBM Global Business Services providing e-business the craft. They turned to Lida Wurtenberger, Carol Wurtenberger Losey’s solutions to financial services companies. mother, who graciously agreed to teach them. A quilter’s group was formed. Just for fun, the group decided to create a quilt together in honor 2001 of St. Joseph and the “Mighty Blue Streaks” and donate it to the 2011 Ginny Kersten Chrun lives in St. Louis, Extravaganza auction. The larger group behind the effort including the Missouri, with her husband Greg and their non-quilters are: Karen Roberts Horn, Carol Wurtenberger Losey, Kathy children Lilly, Kennedy and Ella. Pinkelmann Benedick, Patty McGrew McKiernan, Jane Wheeler, Cathy John Creal and Emily Weideman Creal announce the birth of their second son, Lou Campbell, Mary Ellen Bergman Kreigh, Marilyn Lane Figuieras and Linda William Creal - born May 4, 2011. He joins Spero Emy. brother Henry, 18 months. The family lives in *Lida Wurtenberger has nine children who attended of St. Joseph’s, Aquinas and Saint Thomas Aquinas Overland Park, Kansas. High Schools! 2002 Laura Kriegshauser earned her bachelor’s Faculty/Staff 1995 degree in Early Childhood Education from St. Cathryn Hund, Math Jeff Redmond is a project manager for Murray Louis University and her master’s degree from Department Chair at Company Construction. He lives in Lenexa, Vanderbilt University in Deaf Education. She is STA, married Chris Kansas, with his wife Cristine and children now a deaf educator at the renowned Boys Town Radiel at Church of the Madison – age 4, and Erin – age 2. National Research Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. Nativity on Saturday, June 11, 2011. 1996 Colleen Bolin 1977 Hochberg and her William Marshall and his wife Pamela live husband Mike live in in Shawnee, Kansas, where he is a self-employed Olathe with their two health insurance representative. They have two children, Claire, age 3, children: Jennifer – 24, and Billy – 22. and Grace, six months. Colleen works for Brandon Moritz married Anna Dwyer at the Hallmark in product Basilica of St. Louis, King of France on Saturday, 1991 marketing. May 7, 2011 in St. Louis, Missouri. The couple Jodie Long Gittemeier and her husband Kevin was honored at a dinner/reception/dance held live in Leawood, Kansas, with their six children: at Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch. Brandon Mary Jane - 11, Laura - 9, Ella - 7, Harry - 5, 1999 is employed by JP Morgan / Private Wealth Maggie - 3, and Georgia Rose - 22 months. Nicole Gandy Moodie and her husband Mgmt and Anna is a Senior Sales Consultant Patrick welcomed their first child, Jayne Eleanor for Aramark Refreshment Services. The couple on May 5, 2011. Nicole completed her Doctorate resides in Richmond Heights, Missouri, with 1993 of Philosophy degree in Applied Physiology at their dog Huck. Lesley Rigney lives in Louisburg, Kansas, with the University of Kansas in May 2010 and is her daughter, Quinn – age 11. She is a consultant currently a professor in the Exercise and Sport for environmental project management, strategic Science Department at Rockhurst University in planning, and personal/professional development. Kansas City, Missouri. Patrick is the founder and president of Dynamic Athletics in Overland Park,

www.stasaints.net 17 Class Notes

Mikey Needleman released a new praise-and- worship album entitled “All Research All Over the World for You” in March 2011. Inspired by his work with Robert (Bobby) Shriver, ’06, youth ministry, Catholic recently graduated from the grade schools and Catholic University of Wyoming with a high schools including Saint Thomas Aquinas, degree in Biology. Son of STA his goal was to create a CD that would appeal faculty member Dave Shriver, to the needs of the Young Church. Mikey drew sound influences from John Mayer, Owl City, ‘73, and Jane Dillbeck Shriver, U2, Postal Service and Angels and Airwaves for ‘79, Bobby was recognized the collection of songs which is appropriate for as the university’s Arts and youth and also a worship setting. Available on Sciences graduate-of-the-year Bobby Shriver with school children in Kenya. i-Tunes and at www.mikeyneedleman.com. and also awarded membership to Phi Beta Kappa as a higher-education scholar. 2003 During his time at the University of Wyoming, Bobby received grants from NASA Jeff Woodall and his wife live in Overland for environmental research. Through these grants, Bobby researched fungus growths Park, Kansas. Jeff is a store manager for Finish Line and Willow is a store manager for (lichens) which exist in some of the most extreme environments on earth but can be GameStop. vulnerable to environmental disturbance. Bobby also participated in research in the Brooks Range in Alaska, the Snowy Range Mountains in Wyoming, and the Sangre 2004 de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico where he assisted professors in studies that may help predict future ecological effects of climate and allow scientists to better Andrew plan for such conditions. Bock, 1st Lt Marine Corps, Bobby is in Kenya from May to August 2011 where he is participating in returned to the environmental research of plant life at the Mpala Research Centre, a site established United States through the collaboration of The Mpala Wildlife Foundation, the Smithsonian from combat in Afghanistan Institute, and Princeton University. on February Bobby has been awarded a Fellowship for Doctoral Studies from The National 10, 2011. His Science Foundation and a fellowship to Duke University in Durham, North mother, Mrs. Rebecca Bock who teaches French at Saint Thomas Aquinas, shared upon receiving Carolina, where he will complete his Doctorate in Environmental Biology. the notice, “We just got news this morning that his platoon is back at a command post where they have the luxuries of showers, indoor plumbing, 2005 2007 and beds… To those of you who knew he was Megan Specht graduated from Kansas State Gina Littlejohn and there and prayed for Andrew and his men, thank University in 2009. She is Business Manager Chris Pyle were in the you from the bottom of our hearts. If I could, I for Rainmaker Graphics, Inc., a custom apparel cast of the Chi Omega/ would also ask that you please pray for him and and promotional marketing company located in Phi Delta Theta show his men that they will recover from trauma of Shawnee, Kansas. that won Best Overall war.” Show at KU’s 2011 Grace DelNero hasn’t stopped since running Rock Chalk Revue. cross-country and track at Saint Thomas Aquinas. 2006 Chris Pyle A member of Angela Dobbie earned her Dietetics degree co-directed and the Truman in 2010 from Central Missouri State University performed in the 2011 “No Turning Back” State University in Warrensburg, Missouri, where she played performance for Phi Delta Theta and Chi Omega cross-country soccer for four years. Angela was married to Mike at the 62nd annual Rock Chalk Revue at the team (Kirksville, Pope on April 2, 2011. He is an Officer in the University of Kansas Lied Center, which won 12 Missouri) until US Army and she is a nutritionist at Western of 15 awards including Best Overall Show. Chris she earned her Missouri Medical Center. earned top honors for Best Supporting Actor and Communication Caitlin Drew is a Behavior Analyst for Best Set Design. Studies degree in 2008, Grace recently won the Autism Concepts, Inc., a private learning clinic This campus-wide variety show has raised 2011 Olathe Oz Marathon in a time of 3:06:07. for children diagnosed with autism in Lenexa, over $896,000 since 1991. Rock Chalk Revue She broke the women’s course record and Kansas. She is engaged to be married in October. qualified for the Boston Marathon. is one of the largest student-run philanthropies John Jurkovich entered the in the United States. Each year several Saints Sarah Drew is Director of Membership for Marine Corps after high school and alumni participate in the show as actors, stage the Financial Services Roundtable, a financial spent eight months in Iraq followed crew and organizing committee members. The services trade association based in Washington, by a stint at Okinawa, Japan. John five performing teams represent a year of work by D.C. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in worked as a door gunner on a Huey the entire Greek community at KU in writing, Government and Spanish from the University of helicopter which provides utility directing and producing the theatrical event Texas at Austin in 2008. combat helicopter support to the as well as raising funds for the United Way of Valerie Micheels graduated from Paul Mitchell landing force commander during ship-to-shore Douglas County. The School in 2010. She is a stylist and lives in movement and in subsequent operations ashore. Shawnee, Kansas. John plans to attend KU in the fall where he will major in Engineering. 18 Class Notes

The Louisiana Street Band, including Austin Quick on keys, won the “U Rock! Battle of the Best” national band competition sponsored by Wohletz Receives Prestigious Award General Mills Foodservice. The University of Kansas-based blues/rock/jazz ensemble won a Jerry Wohletz, with prospective students. January 2011 trip to Los Angeles where they ‘08, was recognized Within the Ambassador performed original music for industry judges at as one of ten Program, Wohletz was the legendary Troubadour in West Hollywood. Earning top honors, the band stayed in L.A. for a graduating seniors recognized for increasing two-day recording session at renowned Firehouse to receive a 2011 volunteer retention Recording Studios. Chancellor’s Student rates and the numbers Award at the 139th of new volunteers. He 2010 Commencement also worked for two Elizabeth DeMars is a member of the Kansas at the University years as an assistant for State University Rowing Team and was named to of Kansas on May KU Info, the campus the Big 12 Conference 2010 Fall Commissioner’s 22, 2011. These Jerry Wohletz accepts prestigious recognition information desk, and Honor Roll with a perfect cumulative 4.0 GPA. from Bernadette Gray-Little, 17th prestigious awards – Chancellor of the University of Kansas a year as an orientation for whom recipients assistant in New Student 2011 are nominated and Orientation. James Boddicker and the Chipola College selected by students, faculty and staff – Since 2003, Wohletz has helped his Indians from Marianna, Florida, advanced to recognize students’ academic, volunteer parents produce and market vegetables the National Junior College Athletic Association and leadership accomplishments on their farmstead in Lawrence, Kansas: (NJCAA) World Series in Grand Junction, during their time at KU. Jerry received Tomato Allie. He created and marketed Colorado, this spring. James is playing infield for the Donald K. Alderson Memorial the Park City Rangers (Walter Johnson Baseball the family’s brand. When he wasn’t League) in Wichita, Kansas, this summer. Award, established in memory of helping with the farm, he was employed the former dean of men and dean of in local restaurants. Since grade school, student services, by demonstrating Wohletz has also freelanced as a solo In Memoriam loyalty to and interest in the university violinist. At KU, he volunteered his and being active in events and services James Connors, age 79 of Overland Park, violin skills with KU’s Music Mentors Kansas, died May 12, 2011. He is the father of that benefit other students. program teaching youngsters who may STA faculty member Kathleen Halling, and Jerry earned his bachelor’s degree in not have opportunities for private music alumni parent Lori McGroder; father-in-law of three years with majors in American lessons. Wohletz was a member of the faculty member Jim Halling; and grandfather of alumni Anthony Halling, ’06, Brigid Halling, studies and communication studies. KU Board of Class Officers and served ’07, Mary Cate Halling, ‘10, Tess Halling, class A first-generation college student, he as vice president of the junior class. of 2012, Joe McGroder, ’07, Jake McGroder, ’11, funded his education completely with He was a member of the Rock Chalk and Meg McGroder, class of 2012. scholarships and jobs — including Revue advisory board, representing the Michael Patrick Daly, ‘01, age 27 of Overland working on his parents’ farm and as non-greek community for the annual Park, Kansas, passed away on February 6, 2011. a freelance violinist. Wohletz entered benefit event sponsored by fraternities He is the oldest son of alumni parents Debbie KU with a National Merit Scholarship and sororities. and John Daly, and brother of Chris Daly, ‘03, sponsored by UPS and a Summerfield Anna Daly, ‘05, Megan Daly, ‘07, A member of the University Honors and Liz Daly, ‘09. scholarship, KU’s premier four-year Program, Jerry served on the Provost’s scholarship offered to top male Strategic Planning Committee during Kyle Crosby Ernst, class of 2015, age 13 of graduates of Kansas high schools. Olathe, Kansas, passed away on February 24, his senior year, providing perspectives 2011. He is the son of current parents Ann and Wohletz said he learned on the farm related to admissions, advising and Dan Ernst, and brother of Christopher Ernst, that, “Nothing is impossible; the job retention of students. class of 2014, and twin brother of Katie Ernst, always gets done.” On campus, he class of 2015. Following graduation in May, Jerry held jobs focused on assisting new or moved to Rochester, New York, to begin Robert “Bob” Gutierrez, age 59 of Overland prospective students. He worked for Park, Kansas, died July 3, 2011, from cancer. He working for Hobart and William Smith is the father of alumni Jacob Gutierrez, ’98, and three years with KU’s Ambassador Colleges in Geneva, NY (just outside of Derek Gutierrez, ’00, and also of Dusty Gutierrez. Program in the Office of Admissions, Rochester) as a Leadership Fellow with Bob is preceded in death by his wife of 35 years, coordinating 110 student volunteers to the Centennial Center for Leadership. Debbie, who died at age 55 from cancer on provide campus tours and correspond December 31, 2007. David Mirostaw, age 58 of Shawnee, Kansas, Virginia M. “Ginny” Nash, age 78 of Lenexa, Please contact Cindy Winkler in the STA passed away on May 4, 2011. He is the husband Kansas, died on July 2, 2011, from cancer. She is Advancement Office at 913-319-2425 or of alumni parent Gail Mirostaw and father the mother of STA faculty member/alumna Lisa [email protected] if you would like to of Jay Mirostaw, ‘97, Jill Mirostaw , ‘01, Julie Nash Stoecklein, ’81, and alumni Ann Nash Neal, recognize a deceased loved one or submit a Mirostaw,’02, and Jordan Mirostaw, ‘04. ’75, and Michael Nash, ’76 (dec). She is also the records-update. grandmother of Maggie Neal, ’11.

www.stasaints.net 19 Winter & Spring Sports Winter Sports Boys Swimming Regional Sub State: 7th Girls Soccer League: 6th Boys Basketball Team Record: Daniel Ecklund 500 Free-style Season: 15-10 (5:08.04) All State: Daniel Ecklund (2nd team) Regional/Sub State Finish: 1st Coaches: Rick Jenkins (head), Coach League: 8-6, 3rd place Allisantto (Diving) EKL First team: Joe Downey STATE CHAMPIONS Coaches: Sean Reilly (head), Rick Allison, Wrestling Season: 16-5 Bill Kolich, Brian White, Chip Ahern, Jude Season: 1-0 Gerstner League record/finish: 6-1; Regional/Sub State: 4/9th 2nd Place League: 7th Team Records: Tommy Williams (takedowns) Regional Sub State: 1st Place/ Girls Basketball 108 1st Place EKL First team: Luke Henes, Tommy Team Records Broken or Shared: Kelly Williams, Eric Mason Sweeney, 15 assists, 3rd all time: 11th Girls All State: Eric Mason – State Champ. – Jr. State Title; 4th fewest goals given up in a Coaches: Lorne Parks (head), Andy Leiker, season; 15th Regional Title Tom Williams, Randy Ewing, Larry Parks, EKL: Molly Khoury (Defensive Player of the Joe Ibarra (assistant) Year), Claire Pavlovich, Jordyn Beck, Nicky Alfonsin All State: Claire Pavlovich, Jordyn Beck, Nicky Alfonsin, Molly Khoury, Maggie Harrison Spring Sports Coaches: Craig Ewing (head), Chuck Hammons, Brian White, Erin Ellefson, Mim STATE CHAMPIONS Colwell, Erik Jones (assistant) Season: 25-0 Baseball Season: 8-14 Regional/Sub State: 1st place Regional/Sub State: 2nd Place Softball League: 14-0, 1st place Season: 20-5 Team Record: DaShawn Harden - 360 career League 6th, 5-9 steals, 1st all-time; DaShawn Harden - 1243 EKL: Clayton Henning (OF) League: Record/finish: 11-3 total points Coaches: Lorne Parks (head), Brandon Regional: 1st Place EKL: DaSahwn Harden, Nelly Weledji Greeson, Mike Jacobs, Ryan Kinney, John State: 3rd Place All Sun Country: DaShawn Harden, Nelly Hermsen, Bob Specht, Brandon Adams (assistants) Team Records: Paige Mason, Season Doubles Weledji (14), Brooklin Hinz (Season Runs Scored All Metro: Metro Player of the Year – DaShawn (29) Harden EKL: Lauren Thimmesch (IF), Brooklin Hinz All State: DaShawn Harden Boys Golf (P) Coaches: Rick Hetzel (head), Bob Harbour, Coaches: Chris Orel (head), Craig Justin Wrigley, Angela Cordel (assistant) Drummond, Kerri Jennings, Jerry Nosbish, Stan Spurlin (assistant) Bowling The information was not available. Girls Swimming League: 5th Place 5A STATE CHAMPIONS EKL: Sara Lopez (1st Place 200 Freestyle) League: 4th Place Coaches: Rick Jenkins (head), Alison Beck Regional/Sub State: 3rd 5A (assistant) and Allison Ho (diving assistant) Regionals, 1st 5A State Team Records: Low team score (State score) -284 – Joseph Winslow (66), Cameron Wiltse (70), Tommy Williams (74), Kevin Buchanan (74), Jo Stuckenschneider (78), Max Frederes (87) Low Individual Score (and State score) – Joseph Winslow (66) par 72 All State: Joe Winslow, Camber Wiltse, Tommy Williams, Kevin Buchanan Coaches: Ryan Best (head), Mark Smith (assistant)

20 Winter & Spring Sports Boys Tennis Track and Field EKL: Girls -3rd Place, Boys State Individual Event Results: Tom Boys – 7th Place Coffin – 1600 M Run – 13th place, Jordan Kupersmith – Javelin – 10th place, Jack Regional: Girls - 2nd Place, Luther – 3200 M Run – 13th place, Steven Boys – 5th Place Radetic – Long Jump – 5th place, Alex State: Girls – 6th Place, Weitkamp – 800 M Run – 11th place, 1600 M Run – 4th place, 3200 M Run – 2nd Boys – 9th Place place, Nick Williams – Long Jump – 3rd place. Boys Relay results: 4x400 M Relay Girls State Individual Event Results: Bailee (Tom Coffin, Lucas Johnson, Dillon Moran, Cofer – 1600 M Run – 6th place, Betsy Bobby Morrie) – 15th place, 4x800 M Relay Donahue – 1600 M Run – 12th place, 3200 (Chris Ernst, Mike Geist, Daniel Robison, STATE CHAMPIONS – 1st team M Run – 10th place, Kate Drilling – 400 M Bryan Zack) – 13th place title and 1st singles title Dash – 5th place, 800 M Run – 7th place, League: 4th Place Molly Herbic – 100 M Hurdles – 15th Coaches: Craig Moss (head), Darrin Bryant place, Morgan Hicks – Javelin – 15th place, (pole vault), Rick Hetzel (jumps), Jeff Hicks Regional/Sub State: 1st Place/ Maddie Hopfinger – 3200 M Run – 6th (javelin), Greg Wilson (distance), Jim Woods 1st Place place, Rachel Mahon – 3200 M Run – 7th (throws), Justin Wrigley (distance) Singles: Christian Boschert, Blake Jackson place, Brie Putthoff – 800 M Run – 5th (title); Doubles teams: Michael Stukel, place, Megan Teahan – Discus – 8th place, Donald Mulvaney (title); David Gier/ Laynie Timmons – High Jump – 2nd place Christopher Shinn (tie), Long Jump – 6th place, Triple Jump All State Academic Team: Christian Boschert – 3rd place, Girls – Relay results: 4x400 M Relay (Kate Drilling, Kayla Hare, Brie Coaches: Dave Shriver (head), Tim Lillis Putthoff, Anna Sabatini) – 5th place, 4x800 (assistant) M Relay (Anne Clark, Kate Drilling, Kayla Hare, Brie Putthoff) – 2nd place.

Caption Contest National Letter of Intent Signing The Saint Thomas Aquinas student athletes listed below signed their National Letter of Intent. The signings took place Wednesday, February 3, 2011 at 3:00 PM in the Theatre.

Baseball Soccer Alex Drew – Fort Scott Community Nicky Alfonsin – Rockhurst University “…and then by the time I turned College Moira Cullings – Benedictine College 40, I was down to this tall…” Thomas Schermoly – Drake University In the Winter 2011 edition of Basketball Kyle Whigham – Drake University Saints Spirit, readers were asked Katie Brown – Lindenwood University to submit a caption for the photo Dashawn Harden – University of Softball above, taken in June 2010 at Quivira Oklahoma Lauren Thimmesch – Iowa State Lake Golf & Country Club, at the University Class of 1975 35-Year Reunion. Football Our winner is Joe Tschirhart,’75, Richard Davila – University of Central Volleyball of Tahlequah, Oklahoma. He Missouri Lauren Ford – Lipscomb University explains, “I was at this reunion and Sara Rooney – University of Central the person doing the hand motion Golf Missouri in the picture, Dennis Klein, was a Joe Winslow – University of Iowa classmate of mine. We are all in our Isabella Baldacci – Short University fifties now and beginning to “grow” Ali Kruse – Seton Hall University in the opposite direction!” Joe wins a $25 gift certificate to the Saints Spirit Shop.

www.stasaints.net 21 Trivia Challenge/Mendenhall

Over 325 alumni, current and alumni parents and friends of Alumna Beth Mendenhall, ’08, Saint Thomas Aquinas High named Debater of the Year School competed for the $1,000 and 1st place honors at the 2nd Alumna Beth Mendenhall won the national Annual Saints Trivia Challenge championship at the 2011 Cross-Examination on Saturday, January 22, 2011, in Debate Association’s national tournament at the school’s auxiliary gym. Trivial Binghamton University in New York. PurSaints took home top honors, followed by The She has participated in 55 tournaments Tailgaters with $750 in 2ndplace prize money, and during her college career, and received an award Wild, Wild West with the 3rd place $300 purse. at nearly all of them. In her first tournament The all-girls STA Happy Hour celebrated as Best as a K-State freshman, she competed in JV at Decorated Table winning $300 for the team! the University of Northern Iowa and was first speaker, first seed and took first place. She has qualified to the Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 4, National Debate Tournament four times which is the maximum 2012, as Saints Trivia Challenge has become the and this year was named a Cross-Examination Debate Association event not to be missed! Debater of the Year and was on the All-American first team. “She spoke in sentences and learned to read very early,” said Beth’s mother, Joann Mendenhall. “She was simply trying to mimic her older brother and sister.” Beth was a voracious reader with a good vocabulary who as a young child could carry on conversations with adults. Beth will head to Johns Hopkins University to pursue a PhD in International Relations armed with a degree from Kansas State University in Political Science and Philosophy and a minor in Spanish. Long term plans are still undecided, but one thing is certain – the skills honed from her debate experience will give her “Trivial PurSaints” display the 1st Place Traveling Trophy an edge in a broad range of fields. Tom Waggoner, Teresa Ahrens, Bill & Peggy Ford, Gary Mellard, Bit Clark, Eileen Clune Forbes, ’92, Susan Asked if she has a winning formula or specific talents that Dillingham, Brenden Forbes, Peggy Waggoner, Keith Clark have made her a good debater, Beth claims that no set of skills is necessary to debate, except a willingness to learn and try something “STA Happy Hour” wins Best new. Decorated Table. Bottom L to “It helps if you are confident, able to speak in public, and don’t R: Deb Castinado, Becky Mize, mind arguing for things you don’t believe in,” she adds. “It also Susan Schilling helps if you are interested in politics and/or philosophy, and don’t Middle row L to R: Elisa mind making points in a structured and logical format. But there Fernholz, Monica Ahern, Teresa are no rules in debate, except speech times and 2-person teams, Reilly, Mary Beth Mecca, Pam because the “rules” are part of the argument – you must argue that Johnson. Back row: Ellen White a team has violated a rule, and that that rule should be enforced. and Rhonda Kelley So debate allows for all types of expression, including poetry, music, and traditional policy argumentation.” Beth’s success with Debate coincides with Saint Thomas Aquinas High School winning this year’s state title in Debate. A key factor is Debate Coach Steve DuBois who refers to his students as the future world leaders. And as for Beth, he describes her as a “very self-directed and intellectual” person. Beth is quick to praise her coach and debate experience at Saint Thomas Aquinas referring to it as incredible. “Our coach (Steve DuBois) absolutely cultivated my love for Alumni-group “Run for the Roses” sets the table for a fun evening debate . . . Many of the other freshmen debaters at K-State had to John Kratofil, ‘97, Erica Thesing Kratofil, ‘97, John Koehnecke, be taught basic elements of research and argumentation, but I had Kate Kratofil Koehnecke, ‘93, John Menghini, ‘94, Jennifer Ruhl received a thorough and advanced training from Mr. DuBois at Menghini, ’93, Bob Owens, ’97, Jennifer Owens, ‘97, Katie STA that I have never forgotten. Olson Tholkes, ’93, Steve Tholkes.

22 CLASS REUNIONS Class of 1956 Class of 2001 Reunions 55-Year Reunion 10-Year Reunion Friday, September 23, 2011 Saturday, October 22, 2011 Saints Pub & Patio 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.* Coach’s South Old School 9720 Quivira Road 14893 Metcalf Overland Park, Kansas Overland Park, Kansas All-Years Reunion No admission; pay for what you order. NO RSVP needed; pay for what you order. Friday Night, September 23, 2011 *All-Years Reunion to begin after the Sunday, October 23 Where: Homecoming Game at Saints Pub. Join us for a Family Picnic! Details to come. Saints Pub & Patio Please check in at the Class of 1956 table! 9720 Quivira Road Send questions and inquiries to: Overland Park, Kansas Saturday, September 24, 2011 [email protected]. Luncheon & Gold Medal Club Pinning Members of the planning committee are When: 2:00 p.m. Carrie Furman O’Donnell, Emily Wiedeman 8 p.m. ++ (some reunions begin earlier) Hereford House Creal, Alison Darby Boddicker, Mandy And/or after the Homecoming Football 17244 Midland Drive Stanley Menghini, Caitlin Faddis Ginestra and Game at Saint Thomas Aquinas Shawnee, Kansas Stephanie Frost.

No RSVP Needed! For more information and to RSVP: Margie Class members should update their mail and No Cover Charge! VanNieuwenhuyse Miller, 913-631-7965 email information on the STA website at Drink Specials! * www.stasaints.net. Look for updates on Great Dinner Menu! * Facebook: “Saint Thomas Aquinas Alumni DJ Begins at 10 p.m.! Class of 1996 - Overland Park, KS” and “Saint Thomas 15-Year Reunion Aquinas (STA) Class of 2001.” *Pay for what you order. Friday, September 23, 2011

Homecoming BBQ Tailgate Class of 2006 STA Commons Save the Date Class of 1961 5-Year Reunion 50-Year “Gold Medal Club” Reunion 5:00-6:30 p.m. Families welcome! Friday, September 23, 2011 Saturday, October 1, 2011 Special seating for the Class of 1996! Pre-paid reservations required: For more information, contact Rebecca Eads at 5 p.m. Mass www.stasaints.net/tailgate [email protected] St. Joseph Church 11311 Johnson Drive Saints Pub & Patio Shawnee, Kansas 8:00 p.m.* 9720 Quivira Road 6:30 p.m. Overland Park, Kansas. Members of classes Dinner Celebration & Gold Medal Club No RSVP needed; pay for what you order. Pinning ending in “1” Mission Hills Country Club *All-Years Reunion to begin after the or “6” 5400 Mission Drive Homecoming Game at Saints Pub & Patio. Mission, Kansas Please check in at the Class of 1996 table! If you are interested in organizing $40 per person; guests welcome; cash bar. your reunion yet this year, please Class members should update their mail and contact the STA Advancement Office A representative from Project Talent* will also email information on the STA website at www. at 913-319-2425! We can help you get be in attendance. stasaints.net. Look for updates on Facebook: started, provide a class-list to you, and *For more information, go to “Saint Thomas Aquinas Alumni - Overland send out an advance mailing. www.projecttalent.org. Park, KS” and “Saint Thomas Aquinas (STA) Class of 1996.” Simple solution: You can always Questions and Reservations to: reserve a table at the Homecoming Stephen Sullivan For more information, contact Colleen Bolin All-Years Reunion on Friday evening, Sanctuary of Hope Hochberg at [email protected]. September 23, at Saints Pub & Patio – 2601 Ridge Avenue 97th & Quivira in Overland Park! Kansas City, Kansas 66102-4617 913-321-4673 [email protected] Alumni: Please update your mailing address at www.stasaints.net

www.stasaints.net 23 Non-Profit Organization Saint Thomas Aquinas High School U.S. POSTAGE PAID 11411 Pflumm Road SHAWNEE MISSION, KANSAS Overland Park, Kansas 66215-4816 PERMIT NO. 22

25th Year Calendar of Events Inside Ryan Best Selected Girls Golf National Coach of the Year The National High School Coaches Association (NHSCA) the 5A title by 66 strokes. It was announced its selections as National High School Coaches of the Best’s fifth girls statec hampionship, Year for 2011. his first coming in 2002. He also It is the 12th year the NHSCA has honored these achievers has had one of his girls golfers win in the high school coaching community nationwide. This year’s medalist honors six times, including recipients, selected in a total of 20 boys and girls sports, are from each of the past five seasons. The 17 different states. Kansas coaches Association named Best Girls Coach of the Year in 2003. While these coaches represent a multitude of different Best’s boys teams have qualified for backgrounds, they exhibit a common theme: a strong dedication to state every year of his tenure, and supporting and developing high school student-athletes. broke through to win back-to-back “The coaches we are honoring today are outstanding examples 5A titles in 2007 and 2008, to go for successful high school coaches in their sports,” NHSCA with five state runnerup finishes, two third-place finishes, two executive director Bob Ferraro Jr. said. “They place a high value on fourth-place finishes and a sixth-place finish. In 2011 the boys the teamwork skills their players learn for success in the classroom team broke a school and state record shooting 284 (4 under par) and on the field, and we are proud to be honoring them.” to win the class 5A title by 12 strokes. He has coached four boys to state medalist honors, and nearly 20 of his golfers have gone on to Ryan Best holds an interesting dual role at Saint Thomas earn college scholarships. Best was guest speaker at the National Aquinas. He is the chairman of the Theology Department…and High School Golf Association annual conference in 2007 and also has been the coach of the boys golf team since 1997 and the girls created and directed “Golf for the Soul,” a summer golf retreat golf team since 1999. He has held numerous campus ministry program for players of all ages. Best played basketball and golf at positions, including director of the KAIROS Retreat Program, Benedictine University in Atchison, Kan. and earned a master’s and has coached basketball at the school in addition to golf. Last degree from the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas. fall, Best guided the Saints girls golf team to a state-record fourth Courtesy of the NHSCA website consecutive team title, shooting a state-record score of 303 to win