Volume 10 | No 1 ALUMNI Winter 2016
MagnificatA Publication for The Schools of Saint Mary Alumni, Parents & Friends
Alumni Magnificat | 1 MagnificatALUMNI calendar of events Thursday, February 16, 2017 Ladies’ Night Out – St. Mary’s Elementary School and High School
Saturday, May 13, 2017 St. Mary’s Elementary School Take-A-Break Dinner Dance
Administration Saturday, June 10, 2017 Pastor | Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo The Church of St. Mary Parish Gala Parochial Vicar & School Chaplain | Rev. Fr. Jiha Lim President | Grace M. Cavallo Elementary School Principal | Celeste M. Checchia, Ph.D Saturday, September 9, 2017 High School Principal | Jonathan D. Kramer ‘92 Class of 1967 Reunion
Vice President of Development | Sean T. Collins ’73, ‘77 Saturday, October 14, 2017 Director of Alumni and Parent Relations | Kiera Gmelich Walsh Harvest Festival Director of Communications | Eileen Symmons ’82, ‘86 For more information on activities and events, Elementary School board please contact the Office of Development Vice President | Joseph Cuomo P ’14, ’17 and Alumni Relations at 516.627.4605 or E-mail [email protected] Robert Bossé ’83, P’16, ’17, ‘20 John Broderick’76, ’80, P ’09, ’11, ‘14 Adriana Calosso-Breen P’21 Elaine Caliendo P’14, ’17, ‘23 Frank Caliendo, MD P ’14, ’17, ‘23 On the Web! Andrew Didora P ’21, ‘23 Please visit www.stmary.ws and click on the Our Schools tab for the athletic schedules, Dionne Dixon-Allen P’12, ‘19 school news, and events for the Alumni Association and The Schools of Saint Mary, or call Robert Dunphy ’89, ’93, P’23 the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 516.627.2711 ext 1162. Tim Fulton SMHS ‘96 Maureen Miller P ’14, ’15, ‘18 Amy Murphy P ‘19, ’21, ‘23 Terence Scheurer P’17, ‘21
High School board President | Joseph Mattone P ‘15, ’17, ‘19 Vice President | Tom Hoban ’72, ’76, P’11 Secretary | Carol Dunning P ’14, ’16, ‘20 Tim Ahearn P‘14 Daniel Amoruso ‘76 Kathy Bunger ’78, P’16 Catherine Gugliucci P’16, ‘20 Matthew LoCurto ‘86 Shannon Pompy P’16, ‘21 Franco Sagliocca P ’11, ’14 Larry Siedlick ’68
Alumni Association Officers Co President | Patty Hennelly Anglin ’69 Co President | George Shaughness ’68 Vice President | Thomas Smyth ’86 Treasurer | Robert Pennachio ’86
Board Robert Anastasia ’71 Judi Annibale Betts ’59 Robert Dunphy ’93 Church of Saint Mary, Manhasset Christine Gawrych ’72 Saint Mary's Elementary School, Manhasset Maureen Johnson ’69 John McHale ‘03 Saint Mary’s High School, Manhasset James F. Smyth ’91 St. Mary’s High School Alumni, Manhasset, New York www.inspiredthinkers.org | 2 inside this issue contents 6 Rev. Msgr. John J. McCann (1939-2016) 7 Rev. Fr. Jiha Lim Profile 8 Harvest Festival
9 Youth Ministry 11 Performing Arts 16 College Acceptances 18 Elementary School Leadership Team 20 8th Grade Commencement
24 Hall of Fame 25 Golf Classic 27 Danny Green '05 Camp 28 Alumni Notes
Alumni Magnificat | 3 from the pastor
December 2016
Dear Parents, Alumni, and Friends,
I am so grateful to be the Pastor of St. Mary’s and so proud of our students in both the Elementary School and the High School. As I visit them in our classrooms, see them on the stage, or watch them in the gym or on the turf, I see future leaders in service, business, and society. I reflect upon the vital work we do to educate these young people with a foundation based in the Gospel values of Jesus Christ so that they are well prepared for their journey in education and their life’s work.
Each year, indeed each day, our administration and faculty consider what we teach and how we teach it so that our students will reach the next best level of knowledge and understanding, the next higher level of critical thinking, and - at the very core of our mission - the next deeper level of faith, trust, and hope in Our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. We have purposeful and thoughtful discussions about what this means in daily life. How does Jesus Christ enter the lives of our students in all that they do and in all that they learn?
At an award ceremony in the spring we heard Colin Dunning, a graduating senior, talk about a core value at Saint Mary’s: Service. His words were deep, meaningful, and faith filled. They reflected the very foundation of an education at The Schools of Saint Mary, which is how our faith in Jesus Christ should and does inform and form our words and deeds for now and for a lifetime. The theme of Colin’s words is one that we continue to hear across the campus and in all grade levels. My prayer is that the foundation in which we play such an important role remains with these students both during their time here at St. Mary’s after for many years thereafter.
In this issue of Magnificat, you will read and see the many faces of Saint Mary’s from Elementary School through our High School and our faithful Alumni. I invite you to become active ambassadors of our Schools and our mission in your home and community. Our love for Jesus Christ is unabashed, eternal, and we always strive for the next best level of perfect love for Him.
In Jesus & Mary,
Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo Pastor
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 4 from the president
Saint Mary’s Elementary School N-8 The Schools of Saint Mary |Saint Mary’s High School 9-12 December 2016
Dear Parents, Alumni, and Friends,
This issue of the Magnificat is a wonderful testament to rich and broad achievements of the students of The Schools of Saint Mary – from our youngest children in Elementary School through our High School Seniors. I am so appreciative of our faculty, who, under the direction of our two principals, Dr. Celeste Checchia and Mr. Jonathan Kramer, continue to inspire St. Mary’s students to new levels of accomplishment in academics, athletics, the arts, and in social and spiritual ministry.
I am also so proud that one of our own graduates, Ms. Sarah deVenoge ’02, ’06, is the new Assistant Principal of the Elementary School this year and will take on the role of Principal in the spring. Ms. deVenoge is a true example of the mission of St. Mary’s to provide a superior education based in the Gospel values of Christ. We welcome Sarah to this new position and pray for her success on behalf of the children of St. Mary’s Elementary School.
As we look forward to the years ahead at the Elementary School and the High School, I am also grateful to our School Boards, our Parent Teacher Organization, our Gaels Parents’ Association, our Alumni Board, and our special advisory committees and friends. We continue to move toward a school model in which the curriculum, from our youngest students through our high school seniors, is intentionally designed to provide the best possible outcomes for each student individually. Similarly, our instruction in religious education is a seamless progression to grow in deeper understanding and faith in Jesus Christ. This year, as we do every year, we will continue to discuss how we can provide an even better educational product for our current and future students, while remaining true to our singular mission to know and to love our Lord, Jesus Christ.
To our alumni, I invite you to become involved at The Schools of St. Mary. You may do so by contacting our new Vice President of Development, Sean Collins ’73, ’77, or our new Director of Parent and Alumni Relations, Kiera Walsh, at 516-627-4605. We invite you to share your experiences and life lessons with our present students and to become engaged in the life of the School. You are the fabric of St. Mary’s and I welcome a visit, a chat, or your participation in School events.
I hope you enjoy reading about your School and your alma mater.
With my personal best,
Sincerely,
Grace M. Cavallo President
Alumni Magnificat | 5 parish news
Reverend Monsignor John J. McCann October 6, 1939 – March 2, 2016
Reverend Monsignor John J. McCann, and nephews, and 13 great nieces and Timothy and Megan McCann (Audrey), 76, who served as pastor emeritus of nephews; Virginia and David Hammer Michael and Angela McCann. The family the Church of Saint Mary, Manhasset (Daniel, Shannon, and Michael), Joseph of Monsignor McCann requested that died on Wednesday, March 2, 2016 and Janine Hoey (Lucas, Grace, Rosa Jean donations be made to The Schools of after a brief illness. John J. McCann was and Lily), Christopher McCann, Kathleen Saint Mary Scholarship Fund. This fund born in Brooklyn on October 6, 1939 McCann, Dennis and Heather McCann helps those in need of tuition assistance. to the late Regina and John McCann. (Brigid, Dennis, Molly, Martin and Megan), Monsignor McCann celebrated the 50th jubilee of his ordination, as well as his retirement as pastor for 17 years in June of 2015. Monsignor McCann uniquely held the position of pastor and alumnus of St. Mary’s High School (Class of 1957). Cherished by his adoring family, Monsignor McCann is survived by his brother James and Lucille of Wappingers Falls, NY, and his sister Patricia and Michael Hoey of Dagsboro, DE. Monsignor was a proud and devoted uncle to seven nieces
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 6 parish news
Father Jiha Lim Appointed School Chaplain, Pastoral Vicar
Where did you grow up and do you have any brothers and sisters? I grew up in Seoul, South Korea until I was about ten years old. Then my family and I moved to Valley Stream, United States. I have an older sister.
What was your favorite subject in elementary and high school? In elementary school, I was interested in reading ancient Chinese history, and in middle school and high school, I became increasingly interested in reading primary works of the Fathers of the Church including St. Augustine, Tertullian, and the preachings of John Chrysostom. The Scholastics were also fascinating, especially St. Anselm. I like him because of his logical and well-organized approach to faith. A saying attributed to him is “faith seeking understanding” because he combined reason and faith. His work can be complicated but it is a very valuable reading exercise.
Did you play sports or participate in extracurricular activities in school? I was not a great athlete but I loved baseball, especially the Korean professional baseball team called the LG Twins whose winning record is nothing to speak about but I am still a fan. As a kid, I was so interested in baseball that I wrote my own scouting reports, tracked play and team data, and wrote player evaluations on form and expected outcomes. I also wrote short stories and poetry. Lastly, I participated in the Chess Club, Cultural Society, Students Against Destructive Decision, Mathletes, and many other extracurricular activities. I hold the longest losing streak in the Chess Club of Valley Stream South High School. Anyone is welcome to challenge me in a game of Chess.
What was your spiritual life like as a child and teenager? My spiritual life as a child was guided by my parents, especially my mother. My parents taught me how to pray and recommended excellent books for me to read. My father gave me a book about St. Damien of Molokai and said that he exemplified what it meant to be a priest. My father challenged me to consider St. Damien’s life in my own discernment process to become a priest. As a teenager I was guided by the priests of my home parish in the Holy Name of Jesus Church. I was always impressed by their exceptional selflessness including priests in my home parish such as Msgr. Richard Bauhoff and Fr. Thomas Ju.
What disciple do you believe resonates most in the present day and why? I think all disciples of Jesus have their own gift and distinct legacy that inspire and encourage the people of the present day. Depending on our personal experiences of life, we are all touched and moved by different kinds of examples and models. In my case, I find myself personally drawn to St. John Vianney, St. Anselm of Canterbury, and St. Bartholomew.
Do you have a Bible verse, passage, or story that is especially meaningful to you? I find the calling of Matthew the tax collector especially meaningful. Although Matthew was considered by many as a poor and unworthy sinner (and maybe even a traitor), he got up and followed Jesus as soon as he was called. His example of radical conversion humbles me and inspires me.
What is your hope as the Chaplain of The Schools of St. Mary? Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo was pleased to My hope is to get to know the students and teachers, so that I can better serve them announce the appointment of Rev. Fr. as their priest. I want them to feel comfortable enough to realize that I am THEIR priest. Jiha Lim as the Chaplain of The Schools of Saint Mary this fall. In this role, Fr. Jiha will work in partnership with the faculty Are you excited to be here at St. Mary’s? and parents of the Schools to shepherd I am very excited and happy to be assigned to St. Mary’s. I am especially grateful to the spiritual journey of all of our students Bishop Murphy for giving me the blessing of being here. I also want to thank Fr. Bob, from Nursery through Grade 12. the Pastor of the Church of St. Mary, for his warm welcome and exceptional kindness. Alumni Magnificat | 7 parish news
Saint Mary’s Inaugural Harvest Festival SaintThe weather Mary’s waswas perfectperfect and and the the turnout turnoutInaugural was was phenomenal phenomenal as asthe the ChurchHarvest Church of of Festival Saint Mary celebratedcelebrated its its inaugural inaugural Harvest Harvest Festival Festival Saturday, Saturday, Oct. Oct. 29 29 on on the The weathergroundsthe grounds was of Saint perfectof Saint Mary’s and Mary’s theHigh turnout High School’s School’s was Marist phenomenal Marist Hall. Hall.Among as the Among Churchthe many the celebrated manyfestival its inaugural Harvest Festival Saturday, October festival activities to enjoy were carnival games, inflatable activities, raffles, 29, 2016activities on the for grounds the families of Saint of St. Mary’s Mary’s High to School’senjoy were Marist games, Hall. inflatable Among the activities many festival activities for the families of St. Mary’s to bingo, and arts and crafts. Baked goods and St. Mary’s school and parish enjoyand were carnival games, games, inflatable raffles, activities bingo, and and carnival arts and games, crafts. raffles, Baked goodsbingo, and and St.arts and crafts. Baked goods and St. Mary’s school and spirit wear were for sale, and everyone also enjoyed food truck vendors, parishMary’s spirit wearschool were and for parish sale, andspirit everyone wear were also for enjoyed sale, and food everyone truck vendors, also enjoyed pony rides and a petting zoo, face painting, and musical foodpony truck rides vendors,and a petting pony rideszoo, faceand apainting, petting zoo, and facemusical painting, performances. and musical The performances.whole parish The wholecommunity parish wascommunity invited wasto the invited church to the to attendchurch theto attend 5:00 Massthe 5:00 Mass before returning to the celebration. performances. The whole parish community was invited to the church to before returning to the celebration. “The Harvest Festival was a wondrous, attend the 5:00 Mass before returning to the celebration. “The Harvest Festival “The Harvestrousing Festival success,” was noted a wondrous, pastor rousingFather success,”Robert Romeonoted pastor during Father Mass. Robert “In Romeoa specialwas a wondrous, way I want rousing to thank success,” (Vice noted President pastor of Father Development) Robert Romeo Sean Collinsduring duringMass. Mass. “In The a specialbeauty wayof this I want was tothat thank every (Vice aspect President of our parish of Development) was involved Sean – the youthand of our the Elementary whole committee School, thefor youththe wonderful, of our High fantastic, School, the phenomenal youth of our job religious they did.Collins The and beauty the whole of this committee was that everyfor the aspect wonderful, of our fantastic, parish was phenomenal involved – job education, our youth group – all our youth were involved. The different committees and thethey youth did. The of our beauty Elementary of this was School, that every the youthaspect ofof ourour Highparish School, was involved the – organizationsyouththe youth of in our of our our religious parish Elementary from education, A toSchool, Z all our helped the youth youth to makegroup of our this – High all a wonderfulour School, youth thesuccess, were youth and it showsinvolved.of our what religious we The can different education, do as a ministriesChurch our youth of Saintand group organizationsMary. – allI’m our extremely youth in our were grateful parish involved. tofrom everyone TheA who gavedifferentto Z soall muchhelped committees of totheir make timeand this organizationsand a talent wonderful to make in oursuccess, this parish a success.” and fromit shows A to what Z all we helped can doto makeat the this Church a wonderful of Saint success, Mary. ThanksandI’m to extremelyit showseveryone what grateful who we can helpedto doeveryone as organize,a Church who gavevolunteeredof Saint so much Mary. and attendedI’mof their extremely the timeHarvest andgrateful Festival talent to - to everyonewe make look forwardthis who a gavesuccess.” to sodoing much it again of next Thankstheiryear! time to and everyone talent towho make helped this organize,a success.” volunteered Thanksand attended to everyone the Harvest who helped Festival organize, - we look volunteered forward to anddoing attended it again the next Harvest year! Festival - we look forward to doing it again next year!
Saint Mary’s Inaugural Harvest Festival The weather waswas perfectperfect and and the the turnout turnout was was phenomenal phenomenal as asthe the Church Church of of Saint Mary celebratedcelebrated its its inaugural inaugural Harvest Harvest Festival Festival Saturday, Saturday, Oct. Oct. 29 29 on on the groundsthe grounds of Saint of Saint Mary’s Mary’s High High School’s School’s Marist Marist Hall. Hall.Among Among the many the manyfestival activitiesfestival activities for the families to enjoy of were St. Mary’s carnival to games,enjoy were inflatable games, inflatableactivities, raffles,activities andbingo, carnival and arts games, and raffles,crafts. Baked bingo, goodsand arts and and St. crafts. Mary’s Baked school goods and parishand St. Mary’sspirit wear school were and for parish sale, spiritand everyone wear were also for enjoyedsale, and food everyone truck also vendors, enjoyed foodpony truck rides vendors,and a petting pony rideszoo, faceand apainting, petting zoo, and facemusical painting, performances. and musical The whole parish community was invited to the church to attend the 5:00 Mass performances. The whole parish community was invited to the church to before returning to the celebration. “The Harvest Festival was a wondrous, attend the 5:00 Mass before returning to the celebration. “The Harvest Festival rousing success,” noted pastor Father Robert Romeo during Mass. “In a specialwas a wondrous, way I want rousing to thank success,” (Vice noted President pastor of Father Development) Robert Romeo Sean Collinsduring andMass. the “In whole a special committee way I want for tothe thank wonderful, (Vice President fantastic, of phenomenal Development) job Sean they did.Collins The and beauty the whole of this committee was that everyfor the aspect wonderful, of our fantastic, parish was phenomenal involved – job thethey youth did. The of our beauty Elementary of this was School, that every the youthaspect ofof ourour Highparish School, was involved the – youththe youth of our of our religious Elementary education, School, our the youth youth group of our – High all our School, youth the were youth involved.of our religious The different education, ministries our youth and group organizations – all our youth in our were parish involved. from TheA differentto Z all helped committees to make and this organizations a wonderful in oursuccess, parish and www.inspiredthinkers.org | 8 fromit shows A to what Z all we helped can doto makeat the this Church a wonderful of Saint success, Mary. andI’m extremelyit shows what grateful we can to doeveryone as a Church who gaveof Saint so much Mary. I’mof their extremely time andgrateful talent to toeveryone make this who a gavesuccess.” so much of Thankstheir time to and everyone talent towho make helped this organize,a success.” volunteered Thanksand attended to everyone the Harvest who helped Festival organize, - we look volunteered forward to anddoing attended it again the next Harvest year! Festival - we look forward to doing it again next year! school news
AP Bio Students Participate in Lab Analysis at DNA Learning Center Students from the Saint Mary’s High School biochemistry lab, and prep lab. The 3.5 DNA from the bacteriophage lambda. The AP Biology class took a field trip with their hour lab taught by on-staff educator, resulting DNA fragments were analyzed teacher, Mrs. Donna Hane, to Cold Spring Dr. Zhang, provided an experiment that by agarose gel electrophoresis. In addition Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center demonstrated that DNA can be precisely to the analysis, the students toured the West and participated in a Restrictive manipulated and that it behaves as adjacent Clinical Core Laboratory, which Lab Analysis. Eighteen students traveled predicted by the WatsonCrick structure. is home to one of the largest robotic to the Center located in nearby Lake Students used restriction enzymes, the machines involved in diagnostics. Success. DNALC West includes a genetic/ scissors of molecular biologists, to cut New Youth Ministry Program is Tremendously Popular
Saint Mary’s Youth Minister and Elementary Mass that Saturday morning, celebrated Adoration is and how it can affect our School teacher, Mr. Michael Griffin, started by Father Robert A. Romeo, pastor of St. prayer lives. I also shared with them a a new youth ministry program last year Mary’s. The first program was attended story from my middle school years when I that has had immediate popularity. The by just under 60 students. Its popularity realized that what I was really looking for in program, now called Faith and Service, has grown since then. “The kids have a life was God and that we are all looking for includes sports activities such as basketball blast,” said Michael Griffin, who teaches Him every day.” “Through the message of and dodge ball as well as a strong faith middle school social studies at St. Mary’s Father Brian at Eucharistic Adoration and building and service component. It is Elementary School and who organizes Father Bob at Mass on Saturday morning, open to all youth of the Schools, Religious the events with his twin brother, Thomas I really believe the middle schoolers were Education, and Parish. The inaugural Griffin, a seminarian for the Diocese of inspired,” he added. “There were students program included a Friday evening Rockville Centre. “They are always looking who came to me and expressed how basketball clinic followed by Eucharistic forward to the next program.” He noted much they enjoyed Adoration and how it Adoration led by Father Brian Barr, former that he thought Adoration “was the best moved them in a way that they have never diocesan vocations director and current part of the program. Most of the kids had experienced.” pastor of Saint Mary of the Isle Church, never been to Adoration before. I was able Long Beach. The students also attended to talk to them about what Eucharistic
Alumni Magnificat | 9 school news St. Mary’s High School Girls Basketball Has Impressive Playoff Run
The Saint Mary’s High School girls basketball team took an impressive playoff run all the way to the Class A Catholic state finals at St. John Villa Academy on Staten Island. The girls beat Holy Trinity High School and Sacred Heart Academy and their victory over Our Lady of Mercy Academy at LIU Post in Brookville earned them a spot in the Class A state tournament. It also put the Lady Gaels up against St. Anthony’s High School for the NSCHAA League Championship at Hofstra University. St. Mary’s played hard but was handed a heartbreaking loss by the Friars with a final score of 79-51. Sophomore Trinity High School, winning the game by a Gaels ultimately fell to Sacred Heart by a Kadaja Bailey led St. Mary’s with 19 points score of 61-49. This victory landed them a final score of 61-53. Despite their loss, the and senior Tamia Cutignola scored 16. spot in the final game against Sacred Heart whole St. Mary’s community is proud of Despite their league title game loss, the girls Academy of Buffalo. In an exciting match- our girls for playing hard and playing with were victorious over St. Francis Prep in the up that saw the lead go back and forth heart – congratulations on a great season! CHSAA Class A state semifinal game at Holy and Kadaja Bailey score 21 points, the Lady Gael Force Spirit Week The last days of winter saw lots of exciting addition, there were dressing up days – see,” noted Ms. Cornell. Because each class physical and academic challenges during Twin Day, Blue and White Day, and two was a team, Gael Force Spirit Week was a the inaugural Saint Mary’s High School days when students could wear their good way to “bring the classes together Gael Force Spirit Week. The school spirit class shirts – and each class was able to – they had to work together and it was a raising event, which was organized by decorate one of the school’s hallways chance for them to strengthen friendships Director of Student Life Mary Cornell, as its team season: winter for freshmen, with the other kids in their class.” She also had the theme of “The Seasons.” It was spring for sophomores, summer for thanked all of the administrators and open to students in all grade levels and juniors and fall for seniors. Even some of faculty for their support in launching the encouraged school wide participation the teachers got in on the fun, performing all-inclusive school spirit activity. “Starting by featuring both academic and physical as a band and lip syncing and dancing something new is never easy and it takes competitions. Students were able to to several songs at the Friday afternoon a lot of people to do it right,” said Ms. represent their grade’s team in a variety assembly. At the end of Gael Force Spirit Cornell in appreciation of their efforts. of events, including language studies, Week, a King and Queen were crowned Congratulations to the Class of 2018 on social studies, English, math and science for each class and after the scores from all their Gael Force Spirit Week victory and challenges, cageball, broom hockey, a the events were tallied, the sophomores to all our students for their teamwork, threepoint shot contest, lip syncing and emerged victorious by one point. “The excitement, hard work and school spirit! a technology gaming competition. In enthusiasm of our students was nice to www.inspiredthinkers.org | 10 Performing Arts Take Center Stage at The Schools of Saint Mary
Once again, the Performing Arts Program was center stage this year at The Schools of St. Mary. Our students in both St. Mary’s Elementary School and St. Mary’s High School celebrated the arts; band, orchestra, chorus, Christmas and spring concerts, dance showcases, art shows, and fall and spring open mic coffeehouse performances. Thanks to the Schools’ continued partnership with The Josephine Foundation, many of the students in both the Elementary School and the High School worked tirelessly onstage and behind the scenes under the guidance of performing arts professionals to put on several theater arts productions, including the High School’s fall performance of STEPPIN’ OUT on Broadway and spring musical Anything Goes as well as the Elementary School’s spring performance of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. This Fall, High School students performed with acclaim in 100 Years of Broadway.
Alumni Magnificat | 11 school news
Open Mic Coffeehouse Recitals at Saint Mary’s High School Student musicians, singers and composers performers and the audience,” noted St. from Saint Mary’s High School performed Mary’s High School music teacher and for their teachers and classmates during orchestra director Matthew Elliott, who the fall and spring at open mic coffeehouse organized the event. “The students get recitals in Immaculata Hall auditorium. performance experience without the stress Audience members enjoyed coffee and and anxiety of the formality of a concert and snacks as they listened to performances the audience gets to hear a wide variety of that included classic show tunes, songs performances including music that would by popular recording artists, and original not ordinarily be presented. In the future, compositions by St. Mary’s students. “The we hope to add some dance, monologues, informal atmosphere at the coffeehouse spoken word and other performing arts to performance is great for both the really broaden the students’ experience.” Megan Cain '16: A Spirited Address At the beginning of the 2015-16 school spirituality is a priority. For example, we pray year, St. Mary's High School Senior, Ms. before every class. We also have liturgies Megan Cain spoke to incoming freshmen. throughout the year as a School. One of She commented, “I could not have gotten my favorite liturgies is the Thanksgiving this far through high school without prayer. Prayer Service because after leaving the To me prayer is the number one reason service you realize what the true meaning why I succeed. High school challenges you of Thanksgiving is and how lucky each one in so many ways, but having God right next of us is to be at St. Mary’s and how thankful to you throughout your whole journey we should be to our parents and guardians makes for greater success. To some people for allowing us to get an education of a life I’m the ‘good Catholic School girl’ or the time. One time this year you will attend ‘person who takes religion too seriously,’ a retreat with your fellow classmates to but those aren’t parts I play, that is who I reflect and discover who you are. One of am. Some people laugh when I bring my my favorite spiritual experiences at St. bible to read right before a huge final or Mary’s is on Friday mornings at 7:15 in AP test, but then five minutes later they the Campus Ministry room for Bible Club. are asking me to tell them what Psalm to I believe that this is a perfect way to start read or what prayer to say. An experience your morning because you get to pray encourage all of you to be open to the like this shows me that not only do we just and read scriptures that pertain to you experiences you will be exposed to this pray together in the classroom, but we and what’s going on in your life. It’s okay year and don’t hold yourself back. Come pray together whenever we need help or to be uncomfortable, going outside your to Bible Club, meet new people, and enjoy guidance.” Megan continued, “At St. Mary’s comfort zone creates personality. So I your freshman year.”
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 12 school news
The Schools of Saint Mary Marks Jubilee Year of Mercy with Prayer and Activities Students at The Schools of Saint Mary The students in the High School focused to the church throughout the season to marked the Jubilee Year of Mercy with on the Spiritual and Corporal Works of pray the Stations of the Cross as a class education, activities and prayer all Mercy in their daily morning homeroom during the school day. On Good Friday, revolving around learning about mercy, prayers. Students took part in an event St. Mary’s High School students enacted a acting merciful and enhancing their called the “Power Down to Power Up Living Stations of the Cross for their fellow spirituality of mercy. The worldwide Jubilee Program,” which encouraged students to classmates and parish. The Year of Mercy Year of Mercy, called for by Pope Francis, turn down their electronics and turn up Encounter was a chance for the teens began in December 2015 and closed in their focus on prayer and relationships. of the parish to understand “who God is November. Bishop William Murphy invited Gospel Values Day, a traditional day for St. through His mercy,” explained Michael all Catholics in the Diocese of Rockville Mary’s freshmen and sophomores to focus Griffin, faculty member at St. Mary’s Centre to make a pilgrimage of mercy this on the Gospel values woven throughout Elementary School, who coordinated the year to one of four designated sites around the High School curriculum, was another event. “Instead of simply learning about Long Island. At his invitation, St. Mary’s opportunity to learn about the Year of their faith in a classroom or through a Elementary School students in grades 4-8 Mercy. The Lenten season in particular textbook, the youth will encounter their made a pilgrimage to St. Agnes Cathedral provided time for all the youth to reflect faith by hearing about God’s mercy from in Rockville Centre during the spring, on God’s ultimate act of love and mercy young adults and priests,” Mr. Griffin noted. where they were able to go to confession leading up to the Easter season. St. Mary’s and pray before the Blessed Sacrament. Elementary School students walked over
of their homes that have fallen into disrepair. While in West Virginia, the students spent their days doing hands-on work on Project Rebuild a few big projects: constructing front staircases and simple decks, underpinning trailers to better insulate them, building ramps for wheelchair-bound residents and learning other carpentry and building skills on-the-job. In the evenings, the students had the time to bond and share their thoughts and experiences with each other. Senior Colin Dunning said he had “such a remarkable experience” doing Project Rebuild as a junior that he “couldn’t resist the opportunity to go again. I wanted to make a difference and step outside of my comfort zone.” Junior Rachel Brooks noted that she knew she wanted to participate in Project Rebuild since she was a freshman. “I have always wanted to help people and this hands-on experience is truly like no other,” she said. “My favorite part was meeting the people we were building for. This one man, whose name is Clyde, was very nice. It was the end of the day and it was very hot. I was finishing screwing the deck boards in. I Over Easter Break, eighteen Saint Mary’s High School juniors and knew I wouldn’t have time to shower to go out to dinner and I was seniors went to Webster Springs, West Virginia to participate in the upset, but Clyde came over to me and we started talking. When school’s annual service trip, Project Rebuild. Under the leadership I saw his face when he saw the finished project and I saw how of Mr. Vincent Gschlecht, director of the Guidance Department, happy he was, I became happy, too. I was so happy that I could do this trip marked the 22nd year that St. Mary’s students have that for him and make his life a little easier. This is an experience traveled to Webster Springs to help residents rebuild parts that I will never forget.” said Miss Brooks.
Alumni Magnificat | 13 school news
Elementary Students Follow the Pope’s Visit to the U.S. In honor of Pope Francis’ first visit to the United States in September 2015, the students of Saint Mary’s Elementary School engaged in a variety of projects to celebrate the occasion and learn more about the pontiff. Mrs. Hoffman’s sixth grade students created prayers, poems and small posters featuring photos of and quotes from Pope Francis in the school computer lab. They did online research to find “25 facts about Pope Francis” and to understand the pontiff ’s “to do” list for his papacy. Mrs. Hoffman said that the students watched live-coverage of the visit and created journals including their thoughts and feelings about it. In conjunction with a classroom emphasis on being everyday superheroes, Mrs. Tripi’s third grade students participated in a “Flat Francis” project, taking photos and selfies with a paper cutout of the pope while going to church, praying, doing services projects, even going to soccer practice and a Mets game, illustrating how they are “super” Catholics. They presented their projects to the class, and Mrs. Tripi made a slideshow of all the photos they submitted. Mrs. Hoffman noted that the pope’s visit was a “momentous” event in the lives of St. Mary’s students, one they’ll remember forever, and that this trip was a great teaching and learning opportunity not just for the children of St. Mary’s, but for all Catholics and Catholic school students.
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 14 school news
Saint Mary’s High School Senior Shepherds Commissioned
During the first month of school, Saint students and faculty here at St. Mary’s.” your life for this community.” Principal Mary’s High School’s junior and senior Students wishing to be Senior Shepherds Jonathan Kramer commissioned the Senior classes participated in a prayer service and had to apply during their junior year, Shepherds, presenting each with a special assembly as students were commissioning including submitting an essay and teacher pin and thanking them for their service to as Senior Shepherds, the spiritual leaders recommendations. Those who were the school. Mr. Kupferman also called on of the High School community. “It wasn’t selected have been training and preparing all the junior and senior students present, so much that you chose to be Shepherds since January of their junior year “to lead not just the Shepherds, to be leaders and as it is God chose you to be shepherds,” this community through the things they role models for the St. Mary’s community. noted Larry Kupferman, chairperson of the say and the things they do,” Mr. Kupferman “We’re celebrating in a special way our religious studies department. “Whether explained. “I’m excited about this group Shepherds but we’re also celebrating all it is the advice you give in small group of Shepherds. I think we’re going to have the gifts in this room that can be used in discussions, through your talks throughout a good year because I think you know service to others,” he noted. the school year or through your example, what this means, you know what sacrifice that is how you shepherd the flock, the means. You’re being called to lay down
Alumni Magnificat | 15 school news
Mock Trial Program Sees Success at Both School Levels
The Saint Mary’s Elementary School and Jan Cuomo, Roseann Driscoll, Marjorie 32 teams, down from 64. St. Mary’s would High School mock trial teams are all about Han, Elizabeth Conti Scheurer and Terence be defeated by Massapequa High School, hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Christian Scheurer, all lawyers, assisted in but coach Michael Valente was very proud Both teams exhibited great teamwork coaching the students. At the mock trial of the group. In an open letter to the team that led them both to successful seasons. competition, they faced off against Saint following their win over Friends Academy The Saint Mary’s Elementary School mock Patrick School of Bay Shore. The students and the announcement that they had trial team was victorious at the 13th on St. Mary’s team successfully presented made it past the preliminary round, Mr. annual Catholic Middle Schools Mock Trial the plaintiff argument in front of a real Valente wrote, “I watched the birth of a Program at St. John’s University School of judge, winning their case. This is the team this year. I saw lawyers, not kids, fight Law. The nine students from St. Mary’s – second year St. Mary’s has participated in for what they believed in. … No matter the Christian Alacqua, Andrew Bisch, Justine the program. Not to be outdone by the outcome, this season is a win for all of us.” Cuomo, Nina Kellner, Mia Quan-Soon, elementary school team, the St. Mary’s The team met every Monday since Terence Scheurer, Charlie Strecker, Hugh High School mock trial team also had December, with the lawyers and witnesses Strecker and Melanie Sultan – prepared a great season. Although losing its first meeting every weekend as well. The for the trial for months by practicing after match against Davis Renov Stahler Yeshiva students worked with and were coached school every week for several hours. St. High School for Boys, the team responded by St. Mary’s High School Board President, Mary’s teacher Trudy Hoffman led the with a victory over Friends Academy that Joseph Mattone, whose expertise and law team and parent volunteers Joseph and landed them a spot in the next round of firm provided invaluable tools and resources.
Congratulations! Hamd Mahmood ’16: SMHS Valedictorian
Hamd Mahmood graduated this June at the top of the Saint Mary’s High School Class of 2016. Hamd had just under a 104 grade point average and was one point off a perfect ACT score and earned a 2300 on the SATs with perfect math and reading scores. In addition to his academic achievements, the Roslyn Heights native was also heavily involved in St. Mary’s extracurricular programs including Varsity soccer, Project Rebuild, Science Olympiad, the Scholar Service Institute, Spanish National Honor Society member while serving as a Senior Shepherd and National Honor Society Officer.
Mr. Mahmood also devotes time outside of school to community activities, such as fundraising for the Koohi Goth Hospital, a women’s hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, volunteering at the Queens Hospital Center every July and frequently shadowing doctors in clinics in order to get a better feel for the medical field, in which he plans to build his career. This fall, he will attend Vanderbilt University on a full scholarship, where he plans to dual major in Biology and Journalism.
Good luck Hamd! www.inspiredthinkers.org | 16 school news
College Acceptances 2016 Together with the Administration and Faculty of St. Mary’s High School, Reverend Father Robert A. Romeo, Pastor, is pleased to present the following post-secondary educational acceptances for the Class of 2016. Congratulations to our students on their remarkable achievements. We will keep you in our prayers as you continue your journey as young Catholic men and women.
Adelphi University Iona College Rensselaer Polytechnic University University of California American University LIU Brooklyn Rice University Davis University of Chicago Baruch College LIU Post Roanoke College University of Connecticut Bentley University LeMoyne College Roger Williams University University of Delaware Binghamton University Loyola University Rose Hulman Institute of Technology University of Hartford Boston College Lycoming College Sacred Heart University Hart School of Music (Part of U Hartford) Boston University M.I.T. Salve Regina University University of Maryland, College Park Brown University Macaulay Honors College Santa Clara University University of Massachusetts Amherst Bryant University Manhattan College Sarah Lawrence College University of Miami Bryn Mawr College Manhattanville University Seton Hall University University of Michigan Buffalo State Marist College Siena College University of Pennsylvania The Catholic University of America SUNY Maritime College Skidmore College University of Pittsburgh Chestnut Hill College Maryland Institute College of Art St. Bonaventure University University of Rhode Island Clark Atlanta University Marywood University St. John’s University University of Richmond Coastal Carolina University Massachusetts College of Pharmacy St. Joseph’s University University of Scranton Colgate University Medaille College St. Peter’s University University of Southern California Colorado School of Mines Medgar Evers College St. Thomas Aquinas College University of Tampa Columbia University Mercy College College of Staten Island University of Texas at Austin Cornell University Miami University Stonehill College University of Vermont Daeman College Molloy College Stony Brook University University of Virginia Dartmouth College Moravian College SUNY Alfred Vanderbilt University Dean College Morgan State University SUNY Albany Vaughn College of Aeronautics Delaware State University Mount Holyoke College SUNY Brockport Villanova University DeSales University Mount Saint Mary College SUNY Buffalo Virginia State University Dominican College Mount St. Mary’s University SUNY Cortland Virginia Union University Drexel University College of Mount St. Vincent SUNY Fredonia Washington University in St. Louis Emory University Muhlenberg College SUNY Geneseo Wesleyan University Fairfield University New England College SUNY New Paltz West Virginia University Fairleigh Dickinson University College of New Jersey SUNY Oneonta Western New England University Farmingdale State College College of New Rochelle SUNY Oswego Worcester Polytechnic Institute Fordham University New York University SUNY Plattsburgh Yeshiva University Gannon University NYIT SUNY Potsdam Grove City College North Carolina A&T State University SUNY Purchase George Washington University Northeastern University Swarthmore College Hampton University Northwestern University Syracuse University The Class of 2016 earned over Hartwick College Pace University Temple University Hofstra University Penn State Texas A & M University $16 million in academic Hofstra University (Medical program) Princeton University Texas Christian University College of the Holy Cross Providence College Tulane University scholarships to these prestigious Howard University Purdue University Tuskegee University colleges and universities. Hunter College Queens College Union College Immaculata University Quinnipiac University University of California Los Angeles
Hamd Mahmood '16 Alumni Magnificat | 17 school news
New Leadership Team Announced for St. Mary’s Elementary School Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo, Pastor of The recommendation to me. This year will Church of St. Mary’s, announced the new be one of transition as Ms. de Venoge leadership team for St. Mary’s Elementary completes her Administration degree School. He wrote, “I am proud to announce at Fordham University and then in 2017 the new administration for St. Mary’s takes on the role of principal. Please join Elementary School. Dr. Celeste Checchia me in congratulating Ms. de Venoge and has graciously agreed to stay on for thanking Dr. Checchia for continuing another year, 2016-2017, as principal and for another year. I am so grateful to the faculty member, Sarah de Venoge, who is search committee and most especially a graduate of both the Elementary School to the President of The Schools of St. Congratulations to Miss Maria Swanberg, and High School (’02, ’06), will be the Mary, Mrs. Grace Cavallo, for their hard who retired at the end of the ‘15-’16 Assistant Principal. work, dedication and commitment to school year after teaching First Grade Sarah was the unanimous choice maintaining the academic excellence at St. during her entire tenure at St. Mary’s of the search committee in their Mary’s Elementary School.” Elementary School.
The very first St. Mary’s Elementary School Mets Family Fun Day was held in May. Students sang the National Anthem at Citi Field. The event was a huge success and fun for all of the 500 members of the St. Mary’s family who attended. This year’s event will take place on Sunday, May 21, 2017, at 1pm at Citi Field. www.inspiredthinkers.org | 18 school news Saint Mary’s High School Awards First TwoDon New Monti, Scholarships Timothy J. Coughlin Honoring Scholarships
DonAt the 5:00 Monti PMPM MassMass atat thethe Church Churchand ofof SaintSaint Timothy MaryMary on on Oct. Oct. 29, 29, two two Saint SaintJ. Mary’s Mary’sCoughlin High High School School students students were awarded the first DonDon MontiMonti andand TimothyTimothy J.J. CoughlinCoughlin Scholarships.Scholarships. FatherFather RobertRobert Romeo,Romeo, pastor,pastor, Two introducedSaint Mary’s theHigh scholarships, School students whichwhich were werewere awarded createdcreated the inin first memorymemory Don ofofMonti two students of St. Mary’s High School by their families. “We have two new scholarships that honor two of and twoTimothy students J. Coughlin of St. Mary’s Scholarships. High School This Fall, by theirFather families. Robert Romeo,“We our former students who were taken from us too young,” noted pastor,have introduced two scholarships the scholarships, in the parishwhich thatwere honorcreated two in memoryof our former of two Father Bob. “Through the generosity and kindness of their studentsfamilies,students of St. theywho Mary’s havewere High createdtaken School from scholarship by ustheir too families. young,” funds “We in noted their are awarding Fathermemory.” Bob. two scholarships“Through that the honor generosity two of ourand former kindness students of their who families, were taken they from Timothy Coughlin, who graduated from St. Mary’s High us toohave young,” created noted two Father scholarship Bob. funds.” School in 1976 was killed on Sept. 11, 2001 in the attacks on theTimothy World Coughlin, Trade Center. who He graduated “possessed from a God-givenSt. Mary’s abilityHigh to “ThroughbuildSchool the true in generosity 1976friendships,” was andkilled kindnesssaid on Father Sept. of their11,Bob. 2001 families, “While in the theyat St.attacks have Mary’s, created on two hethescholarship was World a young Tradefunds.” man Center.Timothy who He exudedCoughlin, “possessed life, who vitality agraduated God-given and humor.” from ability St. TheMary’s to Highscholarshipbuild School true in 1976 friendships,” the was Coughlin killed saidon family Sept. Father 11,started 2001Bob. inin “While theTimothy’s attacks at St. onname Mary’s, the wasWorld Tradeawardedhe Center. was a toHeyoung St.“possessed Mary’s man who High a God-given exuded School life, juniorability vitality toFrancesco build and humor.”true Palmeri. friendships,” The said FatherDonscholarship Monti Bob. “While thewas Coughlin a at16 St. year Mary’s, oldfamily heSt. wasstartedMary’s a young Highin Timothy’s man School who studentname exuded was life, vitalitywhenawarded and hehumor.” todied St. Thein Mary’s June scholarship 1972 High from Schoolthe Coughlin leukemia. junior family Francesco “His started mother, Palmeri. in Timothy’s Tita nameDonMonti, was Montiawarded honored was to atheSt. 16 Mary’s life, year vitality Highold St. School and Mary’s love junior Highof Francescothis School young Palmeri. student man whenby reaching he died out in toJune others 1972 who from were leukemia. sick and “His in need,” mother, Father Tita Bob noted. The scholarship started by the Monti and Saladino Don Monti,Monti was honored a 16 year the old life, St. vitality Mary’s Highand loveSchool of studentthis young when man he bydied families in Don’s name is given “to a student who reflects the in Junereaching 1972 from out leukemia. to others “His who mother, were sickTita Monti,and in honored need,” Father the life, Bobvitality noted.goodness The of scholarshipDon.” Sophomore started byMaeve the Monti and loveSullivan of this was young the firstman byrecipient reaching of outthe toaward. others who andwere Saladino sick and families in need,” in Father Don’s Bob name noted. is given The The families of Don Monti and Timothy scholarship“to a student started whoby the reflects Monti and the Saladinogoodness families of Don.”Coughlin, Sophomore including Maeve Don’s Sullivan sister, Caroline was the in Don’s name is given “to a student who reflects the firstMonti recipient Saladino, of andthe Timothy’saward. brother, goodnessFrank ofCoughlin, Don.” Sophomore were on handMaeve along Sullivan with was the firstSt.The Mary’s familiesrecipient High of of Don Schoolthe Montiaward.The Principal and families Timothy Jonathan of Don MontiKramerCoughlin, and Timothy and including President Coughlin, Don’s of Theincluding sister Schools Caroline Don’s of sister Monti Saladino and Timothy’s brother, CarolineSaint Monti Mary Saladino Grace Cavallo,and Timothy’s to present brother, the Frank Frank Coughlin, were on hand along with Coughlin,scholarships were on to hand the students. along with Both St. fundsMary’s areHigh meantSt. Mary’s to be High established School inPrincipal perpetuity Jonathan and School Principal Jonathan Kramer '92 and President otherKramer alumni and President may make of contributions The Schools ofto of The Schools of Saint Mary Grace Cavallo, to present Saintthem throughMary Grace the OfficeCavallo, of to Development.present the the scholarships to the students. Both funds are Congratulationsscholarships to the to students.both Francesco Both funds and meant to be established in perpetuity and other Maeveare meant on receivingto be established these scholarships in perpetuity and alumnithankand may other you make alumnito the contributions families may make of Don tocontributions them and Timthrough to the Officeforthem their through of continued Development. the Office generosity Congratulations of Development.to the St. to both FrancescoMary’sCongratulations and community Maeve onto receivinginboth remembrance Francesco these scholarships andof their and thankdeceasedMaeve you on lovedto receiving the ones.families these of Donscholarships and Tim forand their continuedthank generosity you to the to families the St. Mary’sof Don community and Tim in remembrancefor their continued of their deceased generosity loved to ones. the St. Mary’s community in remembrance of their deceased loved ones.
Alumni Magnificat | 19 Saint Mary’s Elementary School - Class of 2016 Saint Mary’s Elementary School - Class of 2016
ReverendReverend Father Father Robert A. A. Romeo, Romeo, pastor pastor of ofthe the Church Church of Saint of Saint Mary Mary presented is pleased the Saintto present Mary’s the Elementary Saint Mary’s School Elementary Class of School 2016 Classat commencement, of 2016 and the last high June. schools Each member they will of attend the Class this of fall. 2016 Each is unique member and of celebrated the Class for of their2016 academic is unique achievements, and celebrated talents for their and academicservice to achievements, others over the talents course and of their service time to at others St. Mary’s. over May the God’scourse blessings of their betime abundant at St. Mary’s. as they May enter God’s the nextblessings chapter be inabundant their lives. asPlease they enterpray for the their next continued chapter in success their lives. and Pleasetheir relationship pray for their with continued the Risen success Lord and and Saviour, their relationship Jesus Christ. withMay St.the Mary’s Risen ElementaryLord and Saviour,School remainJesus Christ. forever May in their St. Mary’shearts. Elementary School remain forever in their hearts.
LAILA ANAMARIE NATALIA ANTHONY ZECHARIAH LESTAGE LEWIS MARTIN MELUZIO MOE St. Mary’s High School Holy Trinity High School Schreiber High School St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School
ARIANA JUSTIN BRETT HANNAH CHRISTIE BARLAS BARROW BOSSÉ CALLEO CONTOS St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School Kellenberg St. Mary’s High School
NICHOLAS IZABELLA CHRISTOPHER NHA-TRUC MADISON MORTON OAKERSON PARALIKAS ROSEMARY POMPY Chaminade St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School PHAM St. Mary’s High School Kellenberg
JUSTIN EAMON LINDSEY NICHOLAS ALEXIA CROSS DUNNING FIORI GRACIN GUGLIUCCI St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School Our Lady of Mercy St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School
OMAR NICOLE COSMO LUKE SIYOUNG RASHEED REYES SANICOLA SINACORI EMILY SONG St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School Holy Cross St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School
SRAVYA KELLY JINA COURTNEY JOANNA GUNTAKA KEATING KIM KOLEDA KONOPKA St. Mary’s High School Our Lady of Mercy St. Mary’s High School Sacred Heart Dominican
NIA CHARLIE EDMUND MATTHEW STEWART STRECKER TARTARO VACCARO Sewanhaka St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School www.inspiredthinkers.org | 20 Saint Mary’s Elementary School - Class of 2016 Saint Mary’s Elementary School - Class of 2016
Reverend Father Robert A. Romeo, pastor of the Church of Saint Mary is pleased to present the Saint Mary’s Elementary School Class of 2016 and the high schools they will attend this fall. Each member of the Class of 2016 is unique and celebrated for their academic achievements, talents and service to others over the course of their time at St. Mary’s. May God’s blessings be abundant as they enter the next chapter in their lives. Please pray for their continued success and their relationship with the Risen Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. May St. Mary’s Elementary School remain forever in their hearts.
LAILA ANAMARIE NATALIA ANTHONY ZECHARIAH LESTAGE LEWIS MARTIN MELUZIO MOE St. Mary’s High School Holy Trinity High School Schreiber High School St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School
ARIANA JUSTIN BRETT HANNAH CHRISTIE BARLAS BARROW BOSSÉ CALLEO CONTOS St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School Kellenberg St. Mary’s High School
NICHOLAS IZABELLA CHRISTOPHER NHA-TRUC MADISON MORTON OAKERSON PARALIKAS ROSEMARY POMPY Chaminade St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School PHAM St. Mary’s High School Kellenberg
JUSTIN EAMON LINDSEY NICHOLAS ALEXIA CROSS DUNNING FIORI GRACIN GUGLIUCCI St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School Our Lady of Mercy St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School
OMAR NICOLE COSMO LUKE SIYOUNG RASHEED REYES SANICOLA SINACORI EMILY SONG St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School Holy Cross St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School
SRAVYA KELLY JINA COURTNEY JOANNA GUNTAKA KEATING KIM KOLEDA KONOPKA St. Mary’s High School Our Lady of Mercy St. Mary’s High School Sacred Heart Dominican
NIA CHARLIE EDMUND MATTHEW STEWART STRECKER TARTARO VACCARO Sewanhaka St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School St. Mary’s High School Alumni Magnificat | 21 school news
Gratitude to Our Parent Teacher Organization and Gaels Parents’ Association St. Mary’s is so grateful to our parents who are steadfast in their support of The Schools of Saint Mary. Both parent leadership organizations – the High School’s Gaels Parents’ Association and the Elementary School’s PTO – hosted a range of fundraising and community-building events over the course of the school year. This year saw fall receptions for both the High School and Elementary School parents, and dinner, cocktails, music and raffles at the PTO’s Ladies’ Night Out with the theme “A Night in Tuscany” and the Gaels Parents’ Association’s Ladies’ Night Out, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in the spring. The PTO also hosted its annual Take A Break Gala fundraiser at North Hempstead Country Club with the theme “A Night to Shine,” which featured dinner, drinks, a raffle and a variety of fantastic auction prizes while paying homage to the Elementary School’s 90th anniversary this year.
Grandparents Day at St. Mary’s Elementary School The students of Saint Mary’s Elementary School welcomed their grandparents during their grandparents last spring for the school’s annual Grandparents Day. The gymnasium was overflowing with the students’ special guests as everyone was treated to the musical talents of several of the classes who sang for the occasion. The grandparents were welcomed by Dr. Celeste Checchia, Principal of the Elementary School as well as Mrs. Grace Cavallo, President of The Schools of Saint Mary. Afterward, the grandparents visited the children’s classrooms, where they met the teachers, learned what their grandchildren have been up to in school this year and took part in fun, special activities for the day. The younger grade levels participated in story time, colored, sang and prayed with their grandparents, while the older students played grandparent word search and bingo games, interviewed their grandparents to compare and contrast their school experiences and participated in actual class lessons together. Father Robert Romeo, Pastor of the Church of Saint Mary, also came by to say hello to the guests and popped into several of the classrooms to observe the day’s special activities. Grandparents Day was a wonderful opportunity for the students to spend time with their loved ones and to show them what the St. Mary’s experience is all about!
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 22 Saint Mary’s Elementary School family, friends, students, alumni, current and th past faculty traveled from near and far to SMES 90 celebrate the school’s 90th anniversary at the end of the 2016 school year. Following a special anniversary Mass that was Anniversary standing room only, everyone gathered in Wiest Gymnasium for a reception. Those who came had the chance to get Celebration a tour of the school building guided by current students, watch the Take A Break video about a St. Mary’s student from 1926 traveling through time to meet a student in the present, write down their favorite memories of St. Mary’s for a time capsule that will be opened at the 100th anniversary in 2026, and reconnect with old classmates and teachers.
At the end of the anniversary Mass, Father Robert Romeo, pastor of the Church of Saint Mary, recognized all the alumni in the congregation, asking them to stand decade by decade according to when they graduated. He acknowledged the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in attendance; they were the religious order that served as teachers and administrators of the Elementary School since its inception in 1926. Father Romeo also thanked the leadership of The Schools of St. Mary – President Grace M. Cavallo, High School Principal Jonathan Kramer and Elementary School Principal Dr. Celeste M. Checchia. He made note of several St. Mary’s leaders who were retiring, changing roles or moving on, including Elementary School Assistant Principal Elaine Drzymalski, Maria Swanberg, who taught first grade at St. Mary’s for almost 40 years, and parish Director of Religious Education Lorraine Czarniak. “When I was assigned here to St. Mary’s,” remarked Father Romeo, “before I arrived, I couldn’t believe how many people came up and told me they were graduates of one of St. Mary’s schools, either our elementary school or our high school. So the arms of St. Mary’s go wide and far, and that’s a great blessing to us.” Alumni Magnificat | 23 alumni news
Saint Mary’s High School Hall of Fame The Saint Mary’s High School Alumni “Catholic schools not only Association inducted three new members provide an excellent education into the Hall of Fame at a scholarship dinner but more importantly, develop celebration last spring. The inductees the individual. The most were: Stephen Hannan ’80, a trustee of the important lesson is learning Church of St. Mary, chairman of the parish of God’s love, the importance finance committee and loyal supporter of of loving yourself and finally, the Parish and High School; Denise Vey loving others. The formation of Voda ’72, who serves as a Blue and Gold lasting values and a relationship officer, the liaison between The United with God is a lifelong gift.” He States Naval Academy and prospective remarked that, “the School’s students and has mentored many St. Mary’s focus on providing a nurturing students; and Jim Volkland ’57, a former environment in which students baseball and basketball coach, teacher and are challenged to fully develop administrator at St. Mary’s. Students from their spiritual, academic and the High School were also presented with emotional potentials has been a In sadness, we report that Mr. Volkland scholarships by various alumni during the constant from the first day the IHM Sisters passed away this November. We were evening’s festivities. “As I think of the many and Marist Brothers opened the doors at blessed to have had the opportunity to experiences that have influenced my life, I Immaculata.” All proceeds from the Hall of induct him into the Hall of Fame earlier this believe St. Mary’s and Catholic education Fame event go directly to scholarships and year. are one of the most powerful,” noted tuition assistance for students at the High Mr. Hannan in his speech that evening. School.
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 24 alumni news Saint Mary’s Celebrates Bill Miller Alumni at 23rd Annual Don Mentoring Panel Monti Memorial Gives Guidance Golf Classic and Gratitude
The Saint Mary’s High School girls’ lacrosse program in 1993. Alumni Association hosted He continues to be an active its 23rd annual Don Monti member of the parish and Memorial Golf Classic and Fall school community. Among Alumni Dinner at Plandome those who were on hand Country Club, in September, to witness Mr. Miller being 2015. Alumni, faculty and honored were Father Robert A. administrators enjoyed a Romeo, pastor of the Church beautiful day of golf before of Saint Mary, Grace M. Cavallo, gathering together for a lovely President of The Schools of and entertaining reception St. Mary, Jonathan Kramer '92, that included dinner, drinks, Principal of St. Mary’s High and raffles. The dinner was School, many friends of Mr. Miller, also a chance for the Alumni including last year’s honoree, Find a job that makes you happy, a career path can be a Association to honor Bill Tom Raleigh, and numerous straight line or an unexpected journey and no matter what Miller, this year’s recipient members of Mr. Miller’s family. It happens, you can always find comfort and strength in your of the Timothy J. Coughlin was a wonderful celebration of faith – this was just some of the advice Saint Mary’s High ’76 Memorial Award for both Mr. Miller and the St. Mary’s School’s junior class received during the annual Alumni Outstanding Contributions to High School alumni community. Mentoring Panel program. Five alumni from different St. Mary’s. Mr. Miller is a longtime The Timothy J. Coughlin Award, career fields – Michele Dunn ’70, an executive coach at GE parishioner of the Church of which is awarded every year at Crotonville; Melina Giakoumis ’07, a senior staff member at Saint Mary and supporter of the fall alumni dinner, emanates the American Museum of Natural History; Mary Pat Tribble the St. Mary’s community – his from Tim’s beloved family who Gorman ’74, who works in the animal health industry as wife, nine of his children and chose to keep his memory a senior medical director at Zoetis; PhylissAnn Polizzi numerous grandchildren have alive after he perished in the Kalenka ’83, an attorney at the general law firm of Spellman all attended The Schools of Saint attacks on 9/11 at the World Rice Gibbons Polizzi & Truncale; and Jamie Nawojchik ’83, Mary over the years. In addition, Trade Center. Tim Coughlin’s who works in marine insurance as a senior vice president Mr. Miller, who was involved in spirit, dedication, and love for St. at Zurich Insurance Group – gave advice and answered Manhasset lacrosse for over 40 Mary’s are truly found in those student questions regarding college and careers. years, was instrumental in the who receive this special award development of the St. Mary’s in his name. Alumni Magnificat | 25 alumni news
Catching up with some past valedictorians
Taylor Wilson is a sophomore at Swarthmore College. He is double majoring in Engineering and Economics with sights on a career in finance post graduation. He says that the first year of college was challenging, but his experience at St. Mary's of seeking help from accessible teachers has benefited him a great deal at Swarthmore. Outside the classroom, Taylor has participated in the Swarthmore College chorus and the Swarthmore Equestrian Club. This spring he worked with one of his economics professors on projects relating to applications of behavioral economics to government policy. After completing a year of STEM-based coursework, Taylor participated in two short internship programs this Summer at Credit Suisse and Goldman Sachs, then spent eight weeks at a Middlebury Korean language program at Mills College in California.
Taylor Wilson, '15
Juliette deVenoge graduated from Binghamton University is 2015 where she studied biology in a pre- veterinary program. During college, Juliette interned for two summers at University of Minnesota’s Clinical Investigation Center, which develops and facilitates veterinary clinical trials. Juliette is currently studying veterinary medicine at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts and will apply to a U.S. school for the clinical portion of her studies.
Juliette deVenoge ’11
Young Il Chung graduated from New York Institute of Technology with a degree in biology this year and is now applying to medical schools. He reports that he has been accepted to one school already and is waiting to hear about his other applications. Young Il has been doing research with the Prafys Research Laboratory in New Jersey on a range of projects including oral insulin and alternative energy sources. He is also applying to participate in a medical mission trip.
Young Il Chung ’13 www.inspiredthinkers.org | 26 alumni spotlight
Danny Green’s “Team Green” Basketball Camp a Hit at The Schools of St. Mary
The Schools of Saint Mary campus was alive Spurs. Despite a lingering heat wave, the littlest campers, and progressively with the sounds of sneakers squeaking on the kids in the program spent the week increasing his skill level so the older kids the Marist Hall gymnasium floor, whistles learning basketball skills and running drills got a better idea of what it’s like to play being blown, instructions being shouted to increase their endurance, mobility and against a professional basketball player. by coaches and children laughing and agility. Seventy-five campers closed out The Team Green Basketball Camp was learning as the campus became home the week-long clinic Friday with a once-in- founded in 2009 to teach basketball skills to the Team Green Basketball Camp the a-lifetime opportunity, when they got to to kids of all ages around the country. week of Aug. 15-19. The camp and skills put to the test everything they had learned Green is a 2005 graduate of St. Mary’s High clinic, for children in kindergarten through from their coaches and actually play a School. This was the first year that St. Mary’s 12th grade, was brought to the Schools basketball game against Danny Green offered the Team Green Basketball Camp by Danny Green, St. Mary’s alumnus and himself – the towering Green lumbering as part of its summer camp program. 2014 NBA Champion with the San Antonio and laughing as he played against
Alumni Magnificat | 27 alumni notes
Frederick Von Burg '53 William E. Quinn '54 writes the New York Book writes, "alive and kicking. I survived a long and successful business Show (Oct. 13, Battery Park career. My wife Marilyn and I retired some 20 years ago to Jupiter, Gardens) will feature, among Florida. This year we will be celebrating our 55th Wedding other contestants, the cover of Anniversary. We have 4 sons and 6 grandchildren. Three of our sons Todd Freund ('53) and Frederick and their families live within 5 miles of us here in Florida. So we get Von Burg's ('53) cover for their a lot of family time. Still enjoying good health, the beach, golf and book, The Last Torpedo. Don't boating and early bird specials. God has been good to me and my be content with admiring Family and we Thank him every day. We also thank the Brothers the cover, read the book for a of St. Mary's HS for a giving me a good boot in the pants once in a compelling sea story. while and getting me going in the right direction."
Paul Beretz '56 reports "after living in NY, GA, CT we landed in CA in 1967 (San Francisco Bay Area). My BBA is from the University of Notre Dame; an MBA from Golden Gate University, SF, CA. I left the corporate world in 1999 and formed Pacific Business Solutions, working with companies who have cash flow problems. My wife of 52 years and I raised 5 kids and have 13 grandkids. I have been teaching for over 30 years with numerous business associations and St. Mary’s College in Northern CA, where I currently instruct working adults either finishing their BA or working towards their MA in Leadership and Organizational Studies or an MA in Social Justice. The family keeps me busy but I enjoy biking and swimming." Pat King Nevins ‘55 shares this photo she Jeanette St.George Kellerman '57 recently found of some of her reports, "I now live in Sarasota, Florida. My husband and I are in classmates. good health and enjoying our nine grandchildren." Nancy Jaeger '58 Christine Anne Sellmann Schmidt '56 reports she is living in Georgia. She recently met up with Laurie writes, "I am living in Freeport, New York. I am still working for myself, Hoare Whittaker ’72 and Greg Menschion who attended Saint fulltime as a Senior Advocate, for clients who are elderly or physically Mary’s Elementary third grade in 1954. All three of them live in or mentally challenged. I am also doing extensive human rights work Georgia, in three different towns and Parishes. They met at a local online now. I have been involved in human, civil and women's rights abortion clinic where "we pray and counsel each Friday morning! activity here in the USA. Since the 1970's and now on Facebook, Amazing!" I can share that experience with many around the world. It is very interesting activity as I now keep in contact with more than 7000 Facebook friends around the world, most of them in Afghanistan, Pakistan and African countries. My three children live in other states; Rhode Island, Reno, Nevada and Florida. I have few family responsibilities now, my health is good and I am still enjoying life."
John Hinck '58 received degrees at Syracuse University and SUNY College of Forestry at SU. He is a Wood Physical Chemist that lives in both Umhlanga, South Africa and Shelton, WA with his wife. Always follow the sun! They have four sons, nine grandkids that are all independent. He and his wife have traveled through Southern Africa (Tanzania down) for the last twelve years (120k miles). They know it well.
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 28 alumni notes
Jack O’Handley, M.D. '58 Bruce W. Kramer '59 writes, "I continue to work full time with Mount Carmel Outreach retired from Northrop Grumman in 2007, after 42.5 years in radar in Columbus, Ohio. Life is good. My wife Hannah and I have 8 engineering. He went back to school and received a Veterinary grandchildren, 6 of them in St. Louis with our daughter Katie and Assistant certificate. "For the last 7 years I've been a surgical her husband Bernard and 2 of them in Columbus with our daughter assistant with the Baltimore Humane Society - working with the Veterinarian during surgery. Fascinating work - really enjoy the Amy and her husband Brian. I'm looking forward to the 60 year work and the associates." reunion in 2018 if Peter Pace can get his act together." Pat Sanford Tierney '60 Margaret Pryor Farrar '59 The annual gathering of friends from the Class of '60. "This year we writes, "over the 57 years since leaving St. Mary's I have lived in St. went to Naperville, IL, hosted by Margot Worfolk and her husband, Louis, New Orleans , Houston, and for nearly 50 years, Northwestern Joe. This picture was taken at Millenium Park in Chicago." Connecticut. I have written for state and local newspapers including the venerable Hartford Courant, run my own business, The Cannon House Country Store, and for the last 21 years, have worked as an educator serving as a remedial reading tutor and special educator in the Canton public Schools. I recently retired after managing a senior program for the town for 12 years. I have three children and five grandchildren. As a musician, artist and sometime poet, I enjoy sharing music and art with the community." Dick Baumbach '60 and Diane Baumbach will be celebrating their 50th Wedding Top Row: Pat Sanford Tierney, Peggy O'Hagan Stabile, Eileen Schiller Toomey, Mary Anniversary on Sept. 10, 2016. "As was predicted in the 1960 year Salat Pampalk (all the way from Vienna, Austria). Front row: Sue O'Connor Boyd, book, still haven't been a guide for a tiger hunt in India, but have Linda Straus Kearney, Margot Worfolk, Diane Santa Lucia Berger and Pat O'Rourke. lived and traveled all over the world and kept tigers at bay as a deputy press secretary and public relations professional." John F. Mckee '61 writes, "my son, John McKee, Jr., 52, ran his second Boston Marathon. JoAnn M. Smith, MD '61 I ran this race, as well, but 37 years ago. On May 1st, he successfully writes, "I still enjoy practicing psychiatry in New Canaan and Fairfield, ran his 20th marathon in Newport Beach, CA, where I also ran the 1/2 Connecticut with my husband Jeffrey Deitz, MD. The top photo is marathon with relatives who live in the area. My youngest daughter, Laura, will graduate with a BS in Nursing from Fairfield University this of us and our two sons William and Andrew at William's wedding month. In March, 2016 my wife, Rita, and I accompanied Laura and this past fall. I'm also an avid sculler, and the rowing picture is of the University Glee Club to Assisi, Florence and Rome, Italy, where me in a single scull in Florida this past April. I'm USRowing's class G they sang at Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. I will retire in September from national champion 2009 and 2010." Wells Fargo Advisors where I have been a Senior Vice President/ Investments. I have 5 grown children and 11 grandchildren. My plan for retirement is to play golf, travel, run, spend time with grandchildren, and enjoy life in New Fairfield, CT and Naples, Florida." Susan Taylor Magee '62 reports, "I am now residing in Dwight, Ontario, Canada on beautiful Lake Of Bays in Muskoka. My husband Gary and I are very excited to be welcoming our daughter Kristen and her 3 girls, Lucy (16), Niamh (14) and Tess (10) home from Ireland for the summer. They have been living there with their Irish Dad and husband for 11 years and we miss them a lot. Niamh is coming a month before the others (June 2) as she finishes school early. The others follow June 23. They'll stay until the end of August. As we are on the water, they'll be swimming, sailing and canoeing. We're planning some side trips to Toronto and to Niagara Falls. It should be a wonderful summer!" Sheila McCarthy Dunnells-Mangiaracina '63 writes, "my husband, West Highland Terrier and I are moving to Wayne, PA. It will place us between my son, granddaughter, and 3 grandchildren in Annapolis, MD and our home in Albrightsville, PA. "
Alumni Magnificat | 29 alumni notes
Ronnie Henderson '65 Suzanne McLain Rosenwasser '65 after graduating high school attended Florida State, and then to writes, "I retired in 2010 after 25 years teaching high school English C.W. Post (LIU) College, and after serving in the U.S. Army, signed and directing theatre productions to become a full-time writer. My a minor league baseball contract with the Boston Red Sox. current books are Manhasset Stories, memoirs about Baby Boomer Henderson joined the Port Youth Activities board in 1987 and he times in St. Mary's and Manhasset, and a novel, Don't Ya Know, currently serves as the Port Youth Activities Executive Director. He which takes place on Long Island from 1900-1928. I live in Georgia will be inducted in the Port Youth Activities Hall of Fame on June with my husband, Michael, our two children and grandchildren. 17 at the North Hempstead Country Club in Port Washington. In his See more at: www.suzannerosenwasser.com" spare time, Henderson also dedicated time to referee high school and college basketball for 35 years, and is a 50-year member of the Port Washington Fire Department. Ann Doyle Kunovic '66 Joe and Arlene (Gula) Connolly '66 says hello to all of her who live in McLean, VA will celebrate their 45th wedding classmates of 1966. She is anniversary this summer. After twenty-five years of teaching pictured here in the striped top kindergarten in the Fairfax County Public Schools, Arlene retired with her 4 sons & family. from teaching two years ago. However, she flunked retirement and now is back at her school where she is working three days a week as a Resource Teacher. After receiving his Law Degree from Georgetown University Law School in 1973, Joe spent 13 years at the US Securities and Exchange Commission, the last six of which he was the head of the SEC’s Office of Mergers and Acquisitions. Joe then joined the law firm of Hogan & Hartson (now Hogan Lovells) where he has been a partner the past 30 years practicing in the area of corporate and securities law. Joe and Arlene have four children (Mehgan, Ryan, Kate and Aislinn) and have seven grandchildren (Emma, Aidan, Addyson, Connor, Ethan, Brooks and Porter). "To this day we talk fondly of our years at St. Mary’s , the Caryl LoGrasso Timmel ’66 great education we received and the wonderful friends we made. " and William C. Timmel ’64 report, "we will be celebrating our 45th Wedding Anniversary Barbara Murray '66 this fall. We have 4 children (all married), and 3 grandsons ages 9 is an inspector with the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs, years, 6 years, and 8 months. Bill has a law practice in Newtown, planning to retire soon. She hopes. She lives in Flushing, very CT, and, is an active deacon in the Diocese of Bridgeport. I'm near to Queens College, where she wants to take classes in a retired preschool teacher and music specialist. We thank retirement. She has two children, Sean McDonald of East God everyday for our beautiful family and our good health!" Williston, L.I., and Katie Hannah, of Vienna, VA. Each has two wonderful children. "My grandchildren, one boy and three girls, range in age from 4 to 8! It's a great time of my life." Ken Fettinger ’67 retired as an RN with Rochester Regional Health Bill Whyte ’66 System in December, 2014. writes, "I graduated second from last in our 1966 class of about In September, 2015 he and 200 students. I was a bit of a lost soul when it came to showing his wife, Maryfran, visited the up on time, doing homework and turning in assignments. Still, I Tuscany region of Italy and very much enjoyed my time at St. Mary's. I loved-hated track, this past April they visited loved my classmates, appreciated my teachers and I learned several National Parks out plenty. I founded The WS Badger Company (www.badgerbalm. west. Italy is so rich in culture com) 20 years ago. We are now one of the iconic brands in the and tradition and our National natural products industry. We have over 100 employees, 100 Parks are breathtaking, so they plus natural products and we sell world wide. I think my biggest were two GREAT trips! Ken take-away from my high school education at St. Mary's was resides in Rochester, NY and that it helped me develop and refine my moral sense. Having a is deeply in love with his two strong desire to do good in the world has infused my business grandsons, Evan, 5 and Luca life with fun, accomplishment and a sense of purpose. Thanks!" who will be 2 in February!
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 30 alumni notes
Jai Florada '67 Madeline Cannon ‘67 reports, "we have been living in NE Georgia for nearly three years. reports that “in August of 2015, Bunny (Squillace) Caridi from Hawley, PA My wife and I are in an active retirement community. Previously and Madeline (Nazzaro) Cannon from Hanson, MA happened to be in the we retired to the Republic of Panama and enjoyed learning about same place at the same time! They hadn’t seen each other for 48 years and another culture, meeting people from all over the world and had been out of email contact for about 20 years. Their smiles tell it all!” playing in a band."
Paul Tressa Jr. '68 says, "since retiring in 2012 we have been traveling both by packaged trips with groups, and in our RV. We also stay busy with our 2 grand kids during the summer months when they are not in school. It was great to get together with many classmates from the class of ‘68 at our 40th reunion, and I look forward to another fun time at our 50th reunion in 2018. I hope many of you will be able to attend. My thanks to George and the Alumni staff for keeping us Fred Haberle '69 in the loop on Saint Mary's happenings. If any of you from the class writes, "I am class of '69 and was a 440 yard sprinter on the track of '68 are ever in the Corpus Christi, TX area, give me a call. Wishing team, but did not run Cross Country (too far for me). I am now everyone good health and enjoyable times as we move up in age." a Marathon runner, who just ran my 32nd consecutive Boston Marathon! I have gained entry into the Quarter Century Club, which requires at least 25 consecutive completions of the Boston Marathon! I have lived for the last 32 years in Houston, TX with my wife, Sandi (Glen Cove). I will forward a pic from this year's Boston!"
Toni Pennisi Wurth '72 is living in Kansas City where, between freelance consulting projects, she Richard (Dick) Sperry '70 volunteers with After The Harvest. Toni joins a "gleaning" team that lives in Vancouver, WA with his wife Sharon. Dick has two daughters, works with farmers in Missouri and one step daughter, one step son, and one grandson. Dick has a MS Kansas to glean their fields and and PhD in Technology Management and teaches at Portland State orchards after the harvest, to gather University. His research centers on the development of new technology up produce left behind by mechanical equipment and pickers. This fresh, assessment methodology that integrates experts and stakeholders locally grown food - ranging from worldviews using fuzzy cognitive mapping. Dick is also President berries, peaches, corn and greens of all kinds - is rescued and and Principal Consultant of Sperry Management Consulting, Corp. delivered to food pantries and feeding agencies in the KC area..
Alumni Magnificat | 31 alumni notes
Betty Klein Gillen '73 Michael Grosso, MD '73 writes, "I have some exciting news about my brother, Brother reports lots of news! "Our daughter Michaela and oldest son, Michael, John Klein, FMS, graduate of St. Mary's Elementary School and both married in Newport, 1965 graduate of St. Mary's High School, who is the former RI last year. Kath and I Provincial of the Marist Brothers order for the United States and travelled - between the weddings, mind you - to St. Mary's Hall of Fame inductee. He will be celebrating 50 years Tuscany and the Cinque as a Marist Brother at the Marist Jubilee Mass and reception at the Terra. (Don't go there if Immaculate Conception Center in Douglaston, NY on June 18." you want to avoid a serious case of Italophilia!) The Stephen C. McKenna '75 youngest, Jen, just graduated Duke and is on to Harvard for graduate studies in Epidemiology. Meanwhile, Kath is still practicing pediatrics in "would like to express my thanks for the St. Mary’s alums with Huntington. I've still got a toe in clinical Peds, other toes are in resident whom I have been able to connect (mostly on FB). And, on behalf teaching, the Northwell Medical School, Chairing the Department of my family and I, we’d like to recognize and embrace those who of Pediatrics, and serving a sixteenth year as Chief Medical Officer at serve as care-givers. Once, we were all mostly carefree and breezy. Huntington Hospital, a division of Northwell Health. This leaves just Perhaps some of us have been so fortunate. But for those among enough time (but not really) for reading, sailing, piano and spending us like our family and others who struggle to provide care for (in time with our beautiful family and friends." our case) a child, the road can often be one of uncertainty and isolation. As perhaps some who read this will know, our eldest son, Patrick, was diagnosed with Autism in 1997. Thus, my wife and I Kevin Ondrey '75 began the difficult journey. But we have been comforted by the reports the High School Class of '75 held their 40th Reunion on thoughts and sentiments of the St. Mary’s alumni mostly through Saturday, October 24, 2015 at the Port Washington Yacht Club. Facebook. You matter to us. " Over 125 attended, Fr. Bob gave his blessing to open the reunion. The class would like to thank Mary Frances "Muffin" Sauvigne and Kevin Ondrey for organizing and Kristin Graham for her assistance.
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 32 alumni notes
Maryl Mulligan Richey '75 Mary Ellen O'Brien McCooey '77 is pleased to announce her retirement from Polk County Schools is living in NYC with her husband, John and their son who is a high in Lakeland, Florida. Maryl has been working as a teacher and school student. counselor in the school system since 1977 when she moved to Florida. Her husband, Skip, is also retiring after 37 years as a teacher Liz Dolan Durkee '78 and coach. Skip and Maryl have two children, Brian, age 30, is a writes, "I am 55 years old! How did that happen? I haven't worn professional golfer and Kaitlyn, age 27, lives in Los Angeles and navy, gray or white since graduation. I think the tummy dollies performs in various Improv venues throughout the city. caused permanent damage! I hope all my classmates are well!" Dennis Downes ‘81 Deacon George Temidis '79 is a retired Nassau County Police Crime reports on Sunday, September 20, 2015 His Eminence Hilarion, Scene Detective. He shares this 35 year Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, First Hierarch of the old photo of him taking a corner jump- Russian Church Abroad, paid an archpastoral visit to the Nativity shot at St. Mary’s HS gym. Seated on of the Mother of God Church at the New Kursk Root Hermitage in the bench in order: Coach Bro. Kevin Mahopac, NY, and celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Deacon George Conway, Matt Willman, Chris King, Ed Temidis co-served the service. The service took place in the presence McEntee, Tom Sheehan (deceased), of the wonderworking Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God – Kevin McLaughlin, Chris Smollen, Protectress of the Russian Diaspora. After the Great Entrance, parish John Schaeffer, William Accola. At the scorer’s table is Bro. Gerard. In the Deacon George Temidis was ordained to the priesthood and will stands is Bro. Jeff Johnstone, Bro. Roy carry out his obedience at the Nativity of the Mother of God Church. (Principal turned next to Bro. Jeff). On the court playing with Dennis but not in photo is David Brooks, Frank Marsigliano, Jim Bennett and John Schimoler (deceased). The photo was taken by Michael Finnigan. “Basketball at St. Mary’s was everything to the school and community.”
Chris Montalbano '84 writes, "after graduating from RPI in 1988 (Mech. E.) , then Hofstra with an MBA, I joined MIDI (Montalbano Innovation & Development Inc.), a medical/scientific product development commercialization firm located on Long Island (www.midipd.com). Shortly thereafter I married Josephine, and had two children. My daughter is graduating from Our Lady of Mercy Academy this year and going to Fairfield University. My son is currently going into Junior year at Chaminade. We live in Huntington (West Hills). This year Josephine and I celebrate our 20th Anniversary! Recently I finished constructing a new, ground-up Medical Center in Smithtown’s historically zoned Village of the Branch. MIDI will occupy half and Northwell Health’s Smithtown Imaging Center will rent the Christopher Fusco '83 other half. MIDI’s Ribbon Cutting Celebration for their new cutting-edge reports that he continues to serve the Diocese of Medical Product Development Metuchen in New Jersey as General Counsel as well as Innovation Center was this past May 26th. Google “Montalbano Moderator of the Tribunal. He and his wife, Patricia Scalese, or MIDI” & “Smithtown” to see live in Belle Mead, New Jersey just outside of Princeton. published news on the event or visit us at www.midipd.com Tom Curry '85 Additionally, I hold a seat at the reports "on May 1, 2016, I ran the Pittsburgh Marathon in 4:48:42." Center for Biotechnologies Review Board as related to evaluating new Liz Russo Gigles '86 technologies for funding via LIBH." just got back from a silent retreat in NYC with Kim Roeder (DeMaro) Class of '86. Liz will celebrate her 25th wedding anniversary this summer hiking The Camino in Spain. In October she and Catherine Brennan (Allan) Class of '86 are going to see Squeeze in concert! Just like old times! Liz would also like to say that Billy Bergin, Class of '86 and his wife Elizabeth are expecting their third baby in August! (Liz feels entitled to share the good news since she introduced them to each other).
Alumni Magnificat | 33 alumni notes
Luke Driscoll '87 Karl Schaefer '88 traveled from Maryland and was joined by fellow teammates (and reports he is married with 3 children, living in Yorktown Heights, NY. NJ residents) Mark Donnelly '87 and John Farrell '86 in the St. Mary's He spent the last 16 years with the NYPD, currently working in their Alumni Lacrosse Game on May 21. Luke shared, "The event is Employees Assistance Unit, graduated from Adelphi University, great fun and allows the older guys and young alums to meet and Garden City, NY in 2007 with a Masters in Social Work, received his enjoy the game they love. I plan to come to event regularly and license in 2008 ( LMSW ), also completed his NYS Drug / Alcohol encourage other lax players to do the same!" Counselor Certificate ( CASAC ) in 2010.
Robert Church '89 Mike Ricigliano '89 reports "at graduation I received the Don Monti award, which recently completed a screenplay and produced his own award to this day means a lot to me. Following high School I earned a winning short film, which ultimately became the feature film, The BS in Nursing from Adelphi and became a registered nurse and worked as an ICU Nurse and ER nurse. I went on to University of Brooklyn Banker. The movie opened in theaters on August 5, 2016. Maryland and earned a Masters of Science in Trauma/Critical Care Nursing in 1994, working as a trauma nurse at Shock Trauma in Maryland. I then got my MBA from Rutgers in 2010, and I am now the Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at SBH Health System in the Bronx. I am also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. I would encourage everyone to consider jobs in healthcare, which can be clinical or nonclinical. Healthcare is rewarding as you participate in caring for others, and also offers good salaries and job security. Thank you. Please feel free to encourage students to contact me related to healthcare positions."
Scott Harford ‘91 and his wife, Alice, just welcomed their 5th child (4th boy) on May 20, 2016. His name is Thomas Charles.
Laurie Spinella Gibbons '96 reports," welcomed Alice Rose Gibbons in April of 2015. Big sisters Elena Theresa (6) and Meara Marie (4) were very excited to have a new sister! Living amongst a few fellow St. Mary's alums in Manhasset, coming up on 11 years at the Nassau County District Attorney's office. Husband Brian Gibbons and I will celebrate our 9th anniversary in September. "
Kevin Semelrath '00 writes, "I currently live in Washington DC. I am a board certified emergency physician and a major in the United States Air Force. I am currently an Assistant Professor of Military and Emergency Medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD."
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 34 alumni notes
Michael Magas '03 Anthony Mondello, D.D.S '04 writes, "I am presently a New York City Police Officer assigned to received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Columbia University Special Operations. I celebrated my one year wedding Anniversary College of Dental Medicine. He then continued his training as a 5/22/16 with wife Kelly, a grammar school teacher Diocese of General Practice resident at North Shore University Hospital. He Rockville Centre." has joined New York Dental Partners with offices at 29 Barstow Road, Great Neck and 975 Lexington Avenue, New York City. He is currently pursuing further education in Full Mouth Rehabilitation and Sleep Medicine.
Kelly Pilling MacChesney '05 reports she prepares to welcome her second child, Collins, in June Jillian DiBlasi '08 of this year. Kelly lives outside of Austin, Texas with her husband writes, "I am getting married on May 29th to my fiancé James Captain Scott MacChesney, U.S. Army, and their son Harry. Johnis. I have also accepted a job offer with SUNY Empire State College that I will be starting on June 20th. We bought a house in Jonathan Kerby '12 Stony Brook last August. " says from being a collegiate athlete at SUNY Old Westbury to working in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, it is safe to say that this past year has been filled with new adventures and unforgettable memories!
St. Mary's Alumni Lacrosse Reunion last spring was another great success!
Alumni Magnificat | 35 alumni reunions
Class of 1976
Class of 1996
1996 Reunion Co-Chairs Eric Acquafredda and Judy Mejia
Class of 2006
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 36 tribute gifts
Gifts Made In Memory or In Honor of With grateful appreciation, we recognize the following gifts that were made in memoriam or in tribute during the June 2015-November 2016 school year. With the exception of those made in memory of multiple persons, the list is organized alphabetically by the last name of the person for whom the tribute is made.
Lawrence Abbatangelo: In honor of John '12 and Sarah '15 Christopher Fusco: In memory of Rev. Msgr. John J. McCann Joseph Alexandre: In memory of James Alexandre Maureen King: In memory of Mary Ann & Ed McGinley Daniel Amoruso: In honor of The Amoruso Family Ann Kunovic: In memory of Sister M. Lucy McGrath Patricia Axtmayer: In memory of Janet Barth and Ginny Moran Anne Alexander: In memory of Janet McHale Anthony Bellofatto: In honor of Richard Bellofatto Danielle DiCerbo: In memory of Janet McHale Karen Berry: In honor of Richard L. Berry Christina Vega: In memory of May and Andy McKay Michael Rubel: In honor of Anna, Logan and Isabella Braddish Kevin McNamara: In memory of Thomas, Eileen and Chris McNamara Thomas Moriarty: In memory of Timothy Brennan, '67 Milagros Ramos: In memory of Ivan Mrosovsky Rudolph Bunja: In memory of Bogomil Bunja Sr. Richard Mueller: In memory of Richard Mueller Vincent Hartley: In honor of Dr. Celeste Checchia Christopher Murphy: In memory of Kevin R. Murphy '72 Victor Colaio: In memory of Mary C. Colaio John Nelson: In memory of Agnes and John Nelson Joseph Connolly: In memory of Joseph & Emma Connolly Richard Olson: In memory of Thomas P. Olson Elena Bracchi: In memory of Sr. Monica Costello Todd Freund: In memory of Brian Pusey SMHS'53 Kathleen Thornton: In memory of Francis J. Coughlin Sr. Kathryn Pond: In memory of Mary Jill McKay Regan, '55 James Volkland: In memory of Timothy J. Coughlin John Rein: In memory of Pat Rein Marijo Insalaco: In memory of Timothy J. Coughlin Eileen Seeley: In memory of Richard J. Seeley, M.D. Marie O'Malley: In memory of Mr. & Mrs. Vincent deVenoge Diane Zanazzi: In memory of Christine VanErk Selby Charles Eagan: In memory of Kristina Mary Eagan John Polcari: In memory of Brother Victor Serna Diane Doyle: In memory of Pauline Meenan Earle '68 and Janet Barth McHale '69 Allan Poxon: In honor of Natalie Sherwood Suzanne Stephens: In memory of Elizabeth & Joseph Ekkers Ken Dunn: In honor of The Teaching Staff W.G. Ellerkamp: In memory of Tracy Ann Ellerkamp L.T. McKinley: In honor of Rylee Thomas Matthew Filla: In honor of Anna & Michael Filla James Tomlinson: In honor of Anne Tomlinson Eileen Rivera: In honor of "Mr. G" - the best supporter of my sons Paul Tressa: In memory of Eugene Travers, Class of '68 Arnold Gallo: In memory of Josephine Gallo Mary Valentine-Gyorffy: In memory of Christopher Valentine Donna Blanchard: In memory of Mr. & Mrs. Salvatore Gallo John Leary: In honor of Veterans Who've Given Lives in U.S. Service Rowena Morris: In memory of Kathleen Hamilton Gerardi, SMHS'55 William Graffeo: In memory of Brother Sixtus Victor Gennaro Granito: In memory of Meg Granito, Class of '55 Kathleen Bunger: In memory of Diane Villa, SMHS'80 John Greco: In memory of John J. Greco Brian Maher: In honor of James Volkland Albert Groh: In memory of Al and Marie Groh Jean McNelis: In memory of Joan Plante Weil SMES and Gaye Troy SMHS Carmen-Felicia Reciniello: In memory of Jocelyn Guillo SMES'88, SMHS'92 Philip McCabe: In memory of Gregory Wilson '74 Raymond Haller: In memory of Nicholas A. Haller Jr., and deceased members of the Marist Lyda Zissimatos: In honor of Christopher Zissimatos community Multiple Honorariums Jane Hone: In honor of Stephen Hannan Annmarie Keane: In memory of Michelle Rogers and in honor of Sr. Theresa Richard Marylin Grosselfinger: In memory of Sister Jane Hardison, I.H.M. Lolita McKenna: In memory of Arlene Amato Diodorardo, Francine Hurley Rossi and Carol Stephen Johnson: In honor of Jean Caulfield Johnson McCarthy Cavanagh Noel Foley: In memory of Kathleen Kade Charbonneau James Merkel: In honor of Brother Kenneth and in Memory of John Burke, John Keepnews, Peter Antonicelli: In memory of John Keepnews Rich Proscia and deceased members of Class of '62 Raymond Hayes: In memory of Salvatore Lo Presti Joann Tasso: In memory of Jennie & Danny Romero and in honor of Catherine Tasso George Shaughness: In memory of Eileen Magee-Shaughness Elizabeth Malinoski: In memory of Gail V. Malinoski Thomas Keating: In memory of Rev. Msgr. John J. McCann
Alumni Magnificat | 37 supporting our mission
Annual Fund The Annual Fund is an annual fundraising campaign that supports the Schools' most immediate and critical needs. All parents and alumni are asked to make a donation to the Annual Fund. It supports the current year’s programs including classroom supplies, athletic equipment, performing arts and instrumental programs, campus ministry, professional development, maintenance of the buildings and grounds, and technology. You can direct your gift to the Elementary School, High School or a split gift between the two. Every donor sends a message of their confidence in our mission of providing an outstanding Catholic education. Our goal is that every family participates by giving something. Giving is very personal and everyone has different financial circumstances. Just know that every gift, of every amount, is valued and very much appreciated.
To make a gift, please call The Development Office at 516-627-4605 or visit www.stmary.ws/elementary or www.stmary.ws/highschool.
Create a Personal Legacy with a Planned Gift to St. Mary’s
Planned Giving is the smart way for you to join the select group of thoughtful, caring, community members who are investing in the future of St. Mary’s. You can meet the needs of St. Mary’s today and tomorrow while also meeting your financial and personal planning objectives. Planned giving allows you to make gifts beyond what you thought would be possible. When considering charitable gifts, many donors first think about available cash. Cash may not be the best asset to fund a gift. By including St. Mary’s in your estate planning, as a beneficiary of your will, living trust, qualified retirement plan, or life insurance policy, you can create a lasting legacy that supports the future of St. Mary’s. Also, outright gifts of a variety of assets such as appreciated stock, mutual funds, real estate, business interests, retirement plans, or insurance policies, can create substantial tax savings while allowing you to save your cash for other important needs. You can designate your gift to the Church, our Elementary or High School, or a specific ministry.
If you are interested in learning more about planned giving and becoming a member of the St. Mary’s Legacy Society, please contact Sean Collins, Vice President of Development, at 516-627-4605 or email [email protected].
www.inspiredthinkers.org | 38 In Memoriam Saint Mary’s High School expresses its sympathies and prayers to the families, friends and classmates of the following deceased alumni whose deaths were reported to the Alumni Office between June 2015 and August 2016. We invite you to join us at the Alumni Memorial Mass on Sunday, November 6th at 10:30 a.m. to remember them in prayer. Robert Bartz ‘54 Edward Beaudette ‘76 Richard L. Berry ‘63 Brian Brophy ‘61 David Campbell ‘87 Richard Cummings ‘59 Patrick Devine ‘56 William Diele ‘94 William Duggan ‘55 Sheila Dunne Feitelberg ‘55 Margaret Finlay Celentano ‘81 Chris Gerrity ‘74 Donna Hanley Doleman ‘68 Ruth Hellmanzik Cooleen ‘56 Thomas Dishinger ‘64 David Hickey ‘81 Stephen Hickey ‘65 Gerry Jordan ‘66 Maura Kelly Kehew ‘74 John Lindroth ‘55 Alice Loskot ‘75 Joanne Lupetin ‘75 Deborah Malewski Cain ‘79 Peter McCarthy ‘73 M. Jill McKay Regan ‘55 Richard Mueller ‘58 Donal Murphy ‘54 Susan Nardi ‘91 Edward Nash ‘67 Margo Portela ‘72 Margaret Powers Webb ‘58 Anita Puga Fitzgibbons ‘61 James Prochaska ‘81 Mark Renz ‘75 Alfred Ronzoni ‘56 Ronald Ronzoni ‘56 Kenneth Ruggiero ‘67 Christopher Shine ‘00 Diane Valentino ‘65 Charles Velasquez ‘11 Jim Volkland ‘57 John Walsh ‘62 Dan Zenka ‘76 To report an alumni passing, please contact the Office of Development and Alumni Relations via E-mail at [email protected]. All deceased alumni are remembered at the annual Alumni Memorial Mass. Alumni Magnificat | 39 Non Profit Org US Postage PAID Permit No. 8 Saint Mary’s Elementary School N-8 Hanover, NH The Schools of Saint Mary |Saint Mary’s High School 9-12 1300 Northern Boulevard Manhasset, New York 11030
St. Mary's High School students gave a phenomenal performance of 100 Years of Broadway this fall.