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MAGAZINE OF ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE FALL 2017

IN THIS EDITION: ANNOUNCING THE CAMPAIGN FOR OUR LASALLIAN MISSION 12

Our Mission: St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute transforms the lives of students from diverse backgrounds through academic excellence and care for the whole person in a respectful, Lasallian Catholic community, developing each student’s unique talents in preparation for college and life.

Robert T. Scott, AFSC President Brother Christopher Belleman, FSC Principal Suzanne Badgley 7 Director of Marketing & Communications Peter Kennedy ’97 Director of Admissions Patrick McNally ’01 Vice President of Institutional Advancement

/sjcipage @sjci @sjci 6

St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute 845 Kenmore Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14223 716.874.4024 sjci.com

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. Please contact us with any questions or comments at [email protected] or 716.874.4024.

1 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE The Collegiate Fall 2017 IN THIS ISSUE 3-4 An Announcement from the President 5-6 Our Challenge, Our Campaign 7 10 Endowing Our Future 8 5 Meeting the Need Today 9 Planning Your Legacy 10 22 Our Tradition of Innovation 11 Celebrating Mr. Scott 12-15 17 Honoring the Class of 2017 16 Lives of Accomplishment and Service 17-18 Celebrating the Marauders 19 Academic Spotlight 20 Believing in Buffalo’s Future

Cover photo: Standing: Ian Klenk ‘20, President Robert T. Scott, AFSC. 21-22 Seated: Spencer Frome ’18 and Mahly’k Fred ’20. Alumni News & Notes Photo taken by John Bressette ’17

FALL 2017 • 2 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE A Year for Our Future. A Campaign for Our Mission.

After 47 years at St. Joe’s, I can honestly say that our community is more intentionally Lasallian now than at any point in my career. The Mission of St. John Baptist de La Salle permeates our campus and is at the forefront of our work in the classroom, our concern for the students entrusted to our care, and our shared faith in the Holy Presence of a Loving God. And, more than ever, we strive together to answer St. La Salle’s call to make the transformative experience of St. Joe’s accessible – regardless of a young man’s financial circumstances.

My greatest professional satisfaction has always been getting to know our students personally. Throughout my career, so many of these young men were able to enter St. Joe’s only because of the generosity of our alumni and benefactors. I think of the young man from the Class Five years ago, together with our Board answer St. La Salle’s call to provide a high- of 2017 who told his Public Speaking of Trustees and many close friends, our quality education that welcomes students classmates that waking up at 5:30 a.m., school fully recognized the significant from all backgrounds – and especially waiting outside in the cold, and riding and growing challenge of accessibility the poor. And it would mirror what has three buses to St. Joe’s was “worth it.” I for our students – and decided to take always happened at St. Joe’s – alumni think of the class valedictorian, who told action. We carefully planned a path to paying it forward – but institutionalize the crowd at Commencement that his expand our Endowment and create a base and increase that tradition exponentially family could not have sent him to St. Joe’s of sustainable Annual Support that – if to meet the urgency of today and the without financial aid. achieved – would make St. Joe’s possible ongoing challenge of tomorrow. for all qualified young men. St. Joe’s is strong – spiritually, academically, Today, I am so pleased to publicly and fiscally. But St. La Salle’s challenge In past efforts, our community has come announce The Campaign for Our remains: the cost of providing an excellent together to build world-class educational Lasallian Mission. With boldness education and preparing students for facilities and expand our campus into characteristic of the St. Joe’s spirit, we success in the 21st century continues to the college-preparatory institution it seek to raise $20 million to make our rise. Tuition is currently over $13,000 – a is today. This effort was founded on the shared Mission, our school, and our number that is out of reach for so many essence of who we are, designed to build commitment to providing financial aid families in . a sustainable future for St. Joe’s. It would to deserving young men sustainable.

3 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE For the last five years, I have met with my central focus will be connecting with education and works to become the best countless alumni, parents, and friends alumni and friends and inviting each of version of himself – the person whom across the country and here in Western you to join us in this important cause. God has intended him to be. New York, telling our St. Joe’s story. From “Brother’s Boys” who graduated in the If we succeed now – if we reach this Our finish line for this campaign is 1950s to the “gentlemen of integrity” ambitious goal – there will be no dramatic painted on the stage at Kleinhans. It is just out of college, I have heard the same groundbreaking or ceremonial ribbon the moment when a boy – who otherwise thing: What can I do? How can I help? to cut. Our success will be found in the could have never come to our school – story of a young man. He is 13, maybe becomes a St. Joe’s man, an indispensable Already, in this short time, our community from Tonawanda, the City of Buffalo, or part of our brotherhood. has raised over $15 million towards this Amherst. He wants deeply to join our goal in Endowment and Annual support. community and become a Marauder. His If we act now – if you become part of family is willing to sacrifice to send him this campaign – we will celebrate our Throughout my career, and especially to St. Joe’s – but they simply cannot do it accomplishment in generations to come. during my tenure as President, I have been on their own. blessed to witness profound generosity from the St. Joe’s community. We have Our victory will come when we open made so much progress, but – over the the doors at 845 Kenmore Avenue to next year – there is so much more work to this young man. When he experiences Robert T. Scott, AFSC do. As I begin my final year as President, the transformative power of Lasallian President

As we begin all things at St. Joe’s . . . Let us remember that we are in the Holy Presence of God. St. John Baptist de La Salle . . . Pray for us! Live Jesus in Our Hearts . . . Forever!

FALL 2017 • 4 OUR TRADITION

Over the years, the St. Joe’s campus has expanded, the curriculum has evolved, and the faces on the faculty have changed. But who we are has remained the same: a community built on the strength of personal relationships, the pursuit of academic excellence, and the recognition that we remain in the Holy Presence of a Loving God.

For generations of students, the opportunity to attend St. Joe’s has been possible only because of those who believe in the importance of our school – the alumnus who paid it forward; the teacher who covered tuition for the boy who needed it most; the Christian Brothers who kept the doors open to young men regardless of their parents’ financial circumstances. All members of the St. Joe’s community collectively share in this rich Lasallian tradition. OUR CHALLENGE

Providing outstanding academics and the best opportunities for spiritual and personal growth are non-negotiable. Our enduring commitment to excellence requires a significant investment from our families – and one that could be out of reach for far too many in our community.

• Current tuition and fees total more than $13,000. • Over half of our students receive need-based financial aid. • Over 80% receive some form of tuition support, including financial aid, academic scholarships, and work-study. • More than 100 of our families have a combined annual income of less than $50,000. Close to another 150 families earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually. • All our families save and sacrifice to send their sons to St. Joe’s. But the challenge for an average family in Western New York has never been greater – and will only increase in the future.

“We can never define people by the rigid descriptions of what clubs they are in, what sports they play, or what their grades are like. We are all St. Joe’s students, and we are all connected by a sense of community. Different people can be, and have been, very important to our high school experience. Sometimes the people that help us are people who we never even met. My high school experience would not have been possible without the generous contributions of alumni to scholarship funds and financial aid packages, and for that I thank them immensely.”

Max Dudek, Valedictorian, Class of 2017

5 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE OUR CAMPAIGN

The Campaign for Our Lasallian Mission was designed to ensure the sustainability of St. Joe’s and provide opportunity for the next generation of deserving students through three strategic priorities:

1 Growing the Endowment to generate a perpetual source of financial aid and scholarships.

2 Strengthening Annual Giving to provide tuition support for current and prospective students.

3 Building an Innovation Fund to continuously improve the quality of education.

Begun in the 2012-13 fiscal year and supported by so many in our community over the past five years, the Campaign’s finish line is now in sight – but it is achievable only with your support.

TOTAL RAISED GOAL Endowment $7.2 M $10.0 M Gifts & Commitments

Annual Giving $7.7 M $9.0 M

Innovation Fund $0.3 M $1.0 M

Total $15.2 M $20.0 M

The following pages describe these ambitious goals – and how everyone in the St. Joe’s community can join this effort and sustain our Lasallian Mission.

St. La Salle calls us “to provide a human and Christian education to the young, especially the poor.”

FALL 2017 • 6 OUR ENDOWMENT

Our Lasallian Mission is the foundation of our St. Joe’s community. Our Endowment is the strategic asset that will ensure its strength and vitality for generations to come. How It Works

The St. Joe’s Endowment is a collection of more than 120 funds that provide a permanent source of student financial aid and programmatic support to the school. Gifts to endowed funds are invested to earn long-term returns and grow over time. Each year, a portion of the Endowment is withdrawn to benefit our current students. Beginning an Endowed Fund

To establish an endowed fund, an individual or group contributes or pledges at least $25,000 to create a perpetual source of support for financial aid for deserving students or – in some cases – to fund a particular program. These endowments are named in The Robert T. Scott, AFSC honor of a family, individual, or class of alumni to create a lasting legacy at St. Joe’s. Endowment Fund Supporting an Existing Endowed Fund On June 30, 2018, Mr. Scott will Endowment gifts are investments in the value of a St. Joe’s education. All gifts to retire as President of St. Joe’s endowed funds are meaningful, and every dollar has a perpetual impact on the lives of St. Joe’s students. Whether your gift benefits an endowed fund in honor of Robert after 48 years as a teacher, coach, Ivory ’47, Joseph P. Wolf ’57, or the Class of 1994, it will help provide the opportunity moderator, Vice Principal, Principal, of a St. Joe’s education to young men far into the future. and – for the last 13 years – President. To learn more about beginning an endowment or see a full list of existing endowed funds, visit www.sjci.com/endowment. Endowment gifts can be made with the enclosed return envelope, at www.sjci.com/givenow, or by calling 716-270-4115. To honor a man who has shaped generations of alumni and always The Endowment in Action put the students of St. Joe’s first, In recent years, St. Joe’s has greatly expanded student tuition support – living out our a group of benefactors established Lasallian Mission more than ever. With a need that will only increase in the future, this Endowment. this commitment to our students and families will only be possible by growing our Endowment. As Mr. Scott spends his final year as President working to advance the 3,000,000 Mission and secure the future of St. Joe’s, please consider supporting his Endowed Fund. 2,250,000

By growing his Endowment, our 1,500,000 community can celebrate Mr. Scott by carrying on his life’s work: providing opportunity, 750,000 Total Tuition Support Provided ($) Support Provided Tuition Total building boys into good men, and bringing our students into a closer

0 relationship with God. 09-10 10-11 11-12 12-13 13-14 14-15 15-16 16-17 SCHOOL YEAR 7 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE HELPING OUR FAMILIES MAKE IT WORK

Building our Endowment ensures the long-term sustainability of the St. Joe’s Mission. But at the same time, we must meet the urgent challenge our families face right now. Each year, every dollar given to the Annual Fund benefits the financial aid, scholarships, and work- study that make St. Joe’s possible for so many students.

The significant increase in tuition support during recent years has only been possible because of the generosity of thousands of alumni and benefactors. The percentage of alumni who give to the Endowment or Annual Fund annually is now 14% – up from 8.9% just three years ago. And in the last five years, the annual number of total donors to St. Joe’s has increased by more than 20%.

We are grateful for these participation increases, which have allowed our school to responsibly expand tuition support and welcome more young men into our community. But we could do so much more. In order to meet St. La Salle’s challenge and the growing need for financial aid, we simply must.

There are many ways to join this Campaign. GIVING MONTHLY FOR OUR MISSION 1861

In 1861, the Christian Brothers brought the Lasallian Mission to Buffalo, NY. Since then, St. Joe’s has built an incredible legacy spanning more than OUR PURPOSE 150 years. The next 150 years are up to us. To sustain the Mission of Monthly giving is an easy – but crucially important – way to support our St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute shared Mission. You choose the amount that is right for you and, each month, your credit card is charged automatically. OUR GOAL By making a monthly gift to the Annual Fund or Endowment, you join The 1861 Society – a group of dedicated supporters who commit to 500 New Members in sustaining the Mission month in and month out. Benefits include special One Year events and updates from St. Joe’s, an annual celebration, and – most importantly – the knowledge that you are providing consistent and vital To learn more and join now, visit tuition support to our students. www.sjci.com/monthly, complete Together, members of The 1861 Society will honor our past – and the the enclosed return envelope, or influence St. Joe’s had in all our lives – by providing opportunity to the call St. Joe’s at 716.270.4115. next generations of young men.

“My class, 2001, is working together to build our Endowment, and we want to make it happen. I think it’s important to keep giving back because of what that means to the students who receive it. As you grow in life, just a little bit of support can really help a future student experience the same education that we all were able to have.” – Luis Rodriguez ’01

FALL 2017 • 8 OUR FUTURE, YOUR LEGACY

This Campaign is focused on the students of St. Joe’s today, and all those who could benefit from a St. Joe’s education tomorrow. Planning a gift from your estate is another powerful way to shape the lives of young men and ensure the strength of St. Joe’s far into the future.

Planned gifts – whether a bequest from a will, a charitable trust, or another method – support St. Joe’s while helping benefactors achieve their financial goals and plan ahead for their loved ones, often reducing their tax liability. A Planned Giving Perspective

Retiring after a long career of helping clients plan their estates, I decided it was time to consider some planned gifts to the schools that helped me achieve a career in trust banking. Of course that learning process started at St. Joe’s.

This Campaign is a wonderful opportunity to make a planned gift. It all depends on your circumstances. Often times, the need for a life insurance policy or retirement account decreases as children grow up or finish their education. And not every planned gift requires a new will or trust, or a change to your existing documents.

The easiest way to make this commitment is to change the beneficiary designation of a life insurance policy or a retirement plan like an IRA. A change of the beneficiary designation allows the owner of the policy to name a charity of their choice and designate all, or a percentage, of the proceeds to go to St. Joe’s. In addition to benefiting our school, the owner’s estate eventually receives a tax deduction. Richard Jackson ’59 I have used both life insurance and an IRA to make planned and current gifts, but there are so many Co-chair, ways to support the school through a planned gift. St. Joe’s, in conjunction with your estate planning Planned Giving Committee professional, would be honored to review your situation with you. For me personally, I simply cannot think of a better investment. The John Barden Legacy Society

By planning a future gift for St. Joe’s, you enter The John Barden Legacy Society – a distinguished group of strategic benefactors and close friends of our school. Members of the Legacy Society are fixtures on the St. Joe’s campus, and provide the foundation for our Mission’s sustainability.

If you have already included St. Joe’s in your estate plans, please let us know so you can be recognized as a member of the John Barden Legacy Society. For more information or to notify St. Joe’s of your planned gift, please visit www.sjci.com/plannedgiving or call the Advancement Office at 716.270.4115.

9 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE OUR INNOVATION

St. La Salle was a visionary. He imagined a world where all young people had the opportunity for a quality education, taught in a language they understood by teachers who cared about them as individuals. His ideas revolutionized education in the 17th century, and developed into the worldwide Lasallian ministry, today present in over 80 countries and responsible for educating more than 1,000,000 young people annually. Our Strategic Plan

As Lasallians, we are called to push – to consider what is next and to provide our students the best opportunities to succeed. Last year, St. Joe’s announced a new Strategic Plan developed from contributions and ideas from across our community. The goal is to become the best version of St. Joe’s: a Lasallian community where we foster a spirited brotherhood and produce young men of faith and integrity – all prepared with collaborative, entrepreneurial, and technical skills necessary for the 21st century. Making the Vision a Reality

The Innovation Fund in this Campaign is designed to implement the boldest aspects of our academic vision: providing the best technology for our students, the newest training for our teachers, and the most contemporary facilities for our campus.

Your support of the Innovation Fund will provide:

• Improved technical infrastructure for courses such as Computer-Aided Design, Engineering, and Introduction to Coding. • Opportunities for advanced professional development to support innovative curriculum development and teaching practices. • Support for the newly expanded Internship Program, and deeper incorporation of entrepreneurship throughout our academic program. • Vital funds for the further design, renovation, and outfitting of the Innovation Center.

The Innovation Center at 842 Kenmore Avenue opened its doors in 2017. Through the assistance of generous supporters, the renovated facility is a dedicated makerspace and has already become the new home for our FIRST Robotics Program. With additional physical improvements and infrastructure, the Innovation Center will become the hub of technology and entrepreneurship on campus. In addition to providing 21st century experiences for our students, it will allow St. Joe’s to develop further partnerships with leaders in the start-up and business communities – and with our neighbors across Western New York.

This summer, we hosted a one-week Innovation Camp for boys entering 7th and 8th grade, where the St. Joe’s technology team led the instruction in partnership with STEM teachers from local Catholic middle schools and alumni who work in the field.

During the week, the boys had hands-on experience with virtual and augmented reality, robotics, drone flying, video game coding, 3D printing, and more – all an indication of the education they would experience as St. Joe’s Marauders.

The Innovation Center is the first-of-its-kind facility for secondary education in Western New York, and – with the support from generous benefactors to the Innovation Fund – is on the way to reaching its full potential.

FALL 2017 • 10 Please join us for an Alumni Reception in your city as Mr. Scott visits Marauders and friends across the country. For event details and to RSVP, please visit www.sjci.com/americantour.

Cleveland, OH Washington, DC Buffalo, NY Dallas and Houston September 27, 2017 October 26, 2017 December 28, 2017 Spring 2018

Charlotte, NC Phoenix, AZ Sarasota, FL New York, NY October 4, 2017 November 7, 2017 February 20, 2018 March 15, 2018

Atlanta, GA Chicago, IL Southwest FL Boston, MA October 5, 2017 November 9, 2017 February 21, 2018 March 22, 2018 More events will be scheduled Rochester, NY Los Angeles, CA October 19, 2017 November 30, 2017 throughout the year!

Save the Date - April 21, 2018 Lasallian 2018 A Tribute to Mr. Scott

Hosted by David ’81 & Mary Pietrowski

Buffalo Niagara Convention Center 153 Franklin Street • Buffalo, NY 14202

For more information, please visit www.sjci.com/lasalliangala.

To make your gift to The Campaign for Our Lasallian Mission, please visit www.sjci.com/givenow, call St. Joe’s at 716.270.4115, or use the enclosed return envelope.

To learn more about the Campaign, please visit www.sjci.com/campaign.

11 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE READY FOR THEIR NEXT STEPS

The St. Joe’s investment paid off for members of the Class of 2017. • 191 Graduates • 100% college acceptance rate • $37 million in scholarship and merit-based awards • 21 graduates continuing their athletic careers in college

Just some of the colleges and universities who accepted our graduates: Boston College Boston University Case Western Reserve University Cornell University Emory University Fordham University Johns Hopkins University Kenyon College Macalester College New York University Northeastern University The Ohio State University Rensselaer Polytechnic University Syracuse University United States Military Academy University of Notre Dame University of Southern California Villanova University

50 YEARS LATER The celebration of our Golden Jubilarians at Commencement was spectacular this year. A total of 49 gentlemen from the Class of 1967 walked across the stage, and more than 50 participated in the weekend’s activities. Special thanks to the men and their partners who traveled long distances to be with us for this annual tradition.

FALL 2017 • 12 CONGRATULATIONS, CLASS OF 2017

Joshua Albanese Logan Cichocki Turner Dirrigl Richard Gardon Ryan Huard Bradley Allan Kyle Clifford Michael Dispenza Kyle Garus Shane Hy Patrick Allen Caleb Cockrell Jack Dormer Ryan Giambra Nathan Iannello Robert Beaulieu III Gavin Collura Matthew Dreyer Mark Gilbert Jeremy Ienco Nicholas Bell Matthew Colucci Max Dudek Thomas Gioia Mark Incorvaia Nathaniel Berke Thomas Comer Matthew Duke Seth Glanowski Ibrahim Naseer Jackson Alexander Bogart Devan Conrad Noah Emminger Jeffrey Goris II Ethan Karamanos Donovan Boshier Trevor Conschafter Christian Falk Benjamin Goupil Nicholas Kelsch Daniel Brady Cross Cordosi Andrew Faturos Marc Graff Tyler Kiblin J. Patrick Brady Dominic Criola Randall Filippone Benjamin Graham Patrick Klopp Conner Branch Henry Curtin Samuel Floriano III Justice Grant Matthew Klute John Bressette Liam Curtin Gabriel Flowers Michael Greco Jason Kovel Jacob Brill Zachery Deakin Conor Flynn Matthew Grugnale Eddie Kowalczyk Jesse Brodka Jesse Decker Joseph Frank Kyle Hall David Krawczyk Benjamin Bryan Roman Denz Kevin Frank Jared Halt Mitchell Kubiak Griffin Cascio Elliott DiChristopher Benjamin Frawley Quinlan Hawkins Joseph LaHood Adam Cavallari Hunter Dimitroff Dennis Gagliardo Quinn Herlan Jack Lalley Joshua Cheston Nicholas DiNardo Ryan Gajewski Phillip Hoffmann Cameron Leber Ryan Chmiel Michael DiPasquale Benjamin Galkiewicz Nicholas Horab William Lee

PHILLIP HOFFMANN ’17, SALUTATORY ADDRESS LE MOYNE COLLEGE ’21 “I’ve found that some of the most unique and amazing moments have been the times when I simply stop to observe, to take a short walk, to think about what exactly it means to be in the ‘holy presence of God.’ And it’s in the phrase itself. Presence: ‘the state of being present.’ While we should definitely plan for the doors we will open, and reflect on what doors we’ve opened in the past, we only really live in the room that we’re in currently. That is where life is experienced.”

13 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE James Lester Cameron More Renato Quiñones Anthony Snyder Thomas Vona Anthony Liriano Michael Motley Ahmad Randall Anthony Sperrazza Tristan Walbesser Jackson Liszewski Brian Murphy Conner Ransom Jacob Springborn Johnathon Warthling Samuel Lobuzzetta Matthew Murray IV Preston Read Maxwell Stanley Andrew Watson Caleb Long Joseph Nasr Jack Rinaldi Matthew Sternin Drew Weber Nicholas Long Anthony Navarro Joseph Rinaldi Zachary Stockman Jordan Weigand Anthony Lunghino Jayln Nelson Michael Rizzo Razhique Sullivan Brendan Weinholtz Landon MacDonald Freddie Nixon Thomas Ruggiero Louis Surace Jr. Michael Wells Nathan Martens Michael O’Neill Rocco Schiavone Michael Telesco Stephen Wells Nicholas Martone Jordan Obrochta Theodore Schulefand Matthew Telford Jared Welnowski Matthew Mayer Yusuf Osman Jacob Schultz Joshua Thermidor Joshua Whipple Charles McIntyre Colin Overdorf Francesco Sciolino Griffin Tolsma Anthony Williams Andrew McLaughlin Nicholas Pace Daimen Sharp Joseph Treanor Ian Woods Patrick McMahon Nicholas Patnella Jacob Shaw Frank Tripi V Michael Wright Jacob Mertz Michael Pesarchick Logan Sherman Carmine Tronolone Blake Zachau Michael Metzger John Pezzino IV Andrew Short Samuel Turecki Alexander Zuchlewski Dominic Miceli Justin Piazza Taryll Sigler Christian Turner Colin Miller Luke Pierce Brett Smith John Turri Michael Mineo Charles Pratt Daniel Smith Austin Velarde Luke Mirco Robert Principe Rickey Smith II Patrick Veltri

JODY LOMEO ’86, COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS PRESIDENT AND CEO OF KALEIDA HEALTH AND GREAT LAKES HEALTH SYSTEM OF WESTERN NEW YORK “Without question, there is no substitute for hard work so be relentless in your pursuit. There are no short cuts. Always do the right thing, no matter how big or small the task, and treat everyone as your equal. Your opportunities and your future are defined by you. Your actions, work ethic, behavior, and beliefs will define your path. And as a St. Joe’s graduate, you can and will lead people to higher ups and better tomorrows. This will be your ultimate legacy.”

FALL 2017 • 14 OUTSTANDING SENIORS

The Class of 1931 Outstanding Senior of the Year Award Nominated by their peers, these five members of the Class of 2017 were chosen as finalists for the annual award. Each shares his own words describing his St. Joe’s experience.

Award Winner TURNER DIRRIGL ’17 Canisius College At freshmen orientation, we were told the best thing we could do at St. Joe’s was to “get involved”. This advice was echoed by my parents, who said I shouldn’t ever turn down an opportunity. That was the best advice I’ve received in my four years, because, at St. Joe’s, there are opportunities everywhere. I’ve been challenged to grow academically, to become part of the “brotherhood”, to grow closer to God, and to leave St. Joe’s the best person I can be.

BENJAMIN GRAHAM ’17 University of Michigan Through the internship program, I had the opportunity to serve as the assistant to a pathologist in a cytogenetics lab at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, spend a summer with an endovascular neurosurgeon at Gates Vascular Institute, and assist PhD students with research on the use of monoclonal antibodies as a novel treatment for cancer at the University at Buffalo. Facilitated by St. Joe’s alumni, these experiences introduced me to the field of medicine and the value of the brotherhood.

MICHAEL GRECO ’17 University of Pittsburgh St. Joe’s fosters a diverse community where kids representing all sectors of society can thrive. There are Catholics and Jews, rich and poor, black and white, and so much more. Where this diversity has caused wars in the past, it sparks lifelong friendships at St. Joe’s. In our increasingly globalized society, my experience with all types of people will prove invaluable on my college campus, my future workplace, and life in general.

JACK LALLEY ’17 The Ohio State University They say that high school is a transition, and I believe St. Joe’s gave me strength to realize my unlimited potential. Arriving at St. Joe’s after attending a public school all my life, I did not know what to expect. However, from day one I was welcomed with open arms into a home that encompassed me immediately as one of its own. The school has changed me into the man I am today and given me a strong foundation to continue to shape me into the man I will become tomorrow.

AHMAD RANDALL ’17 St. John’s University At St. Joe’s, I have developed a deeper understanding of my own spirituality, helping me to hone in on my passion to pursue a degree in Theology. I have also learned about perseverance and grit. Perseverance is the key to success both inside and outside of the classroom. Grit is an attribute that I developed during my time here at St. Joe’s, and it will no doubt prove to be invaluable in the future. Success is not handed to you, but instead has to be earned.

15 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE LIVES OF ACCOMPLISHMENT AND SERVICE 1 FACULTY RETIREES

“You can perform miracles by touching the hearts of those entrusted to your care.” – St. John Baptist de La Salle 2

At the end of the 2016-17 school year, we honored and celebrated the tremendous impact these six members of our faculty have had on so many. On behalf of the entire St. Joe’s community, please join us in congratulating them all on their retirement.

Deacon Greg Feary 1 Religion Teacher 3 1986 – 2017

Mr. Marty Fedchak 2 Business Teacher 1984 – 2017

3 Mr. Michael Gromek 4 Social Studies Teacher 1983 – 2017

4 Mr. Steve Jakiel English Teacher 1979 - 2017

5 Mr. Russ Owens 5 Instrumental Music Teacher 1973 – 2017

Mrs. Catherine Ward 6 Visual Arts Teacher 1982 - 2017 6 FALL 2017 • 16 2016-17 MARAUDER ATHLETICS WRAP-UP

From dominant performances to thrilling come-from-behind victories, the 2016-17 season for the Marauders was one to remember. Our student-athletes played against some of the top competition in Western New York and beyond, proudly representing the Maroon and White. Here are some of the highlights:

FALL: Cross Country won their 5th consecutive Monsignor Martin League title with a decisive victory over Canisius at Delaware Park in late October. The following weekend at the All-Catholics in East Aurora, St. Joe’s captured their 5th consecutive All-Catholic title. The varsity team of Turner Dirrigl ’17, Jordan Obrochta ’17, Ryan Chmiel ’17, Jacob Brill ’17, Kyle Hall ’17 and Michael Gianadda ’18 finished 1st, earning a spot at the New York State Federation Meet.

Golf completed an undefeated season, winning both the Monsignor Martin League title and the All-Catholic title for the second year in a row. Eight members of the team qualified to represent St. Joe’s at the state federation tournament. Senior Jacob Mertz ’17 shot a 75 at the tournament, and was crowned the individual state champion.

WINTER: Federation Hockey won the Niagara Cup Championship in February, defeating Canisius 4 - 0 for the second straight year. It was the Marauders’ fifth Niagara Cup in the last 7 years, and 12th overall since the 1990-91 season. The Marauders played for the state championship against St. Anthony’s of Long Island, where they came out on top with a 5 - 2 victory, and their second consecutive state title. To cap off their accomplishments, the Marauders were named the Buffalo News Prep Talk Team of the Year this spring.

Varsity Maroon Hockey turned in an impressive season, also capped with a state title. After being defeated by Canisius for the WNY Club title, the Marauders headed to the state tournament on an at-large bid. Though they lost the opener of the double-elimination tournament, the team rattled off three straight victories to make it to the championship game, where Canisius once again awaited them. This time, the Marauders would not be denied, winning the game 3 - 2 for the state title.

Wrestling continued their dominance on the mat, winning the Monsignor Martin League and All-Catholic titles. Senior Freddie Nixon ’17 qualified to represent the Marauders at the Catholic State Tournament, where he became the 18th individual state champion in the wrestling program’s history.

SPRING: Baseball entered the Georgetown Cup Playoffs as the 4th seed in the always competitive Monsignor Martin League. After knocking off overall top-seed Canisius in the semi- finals, the Marauders faced a tough St. Mary’s of Lancaster squad in the best-of-three championship series. A decisive Game 3 was needed to determine the champion, with Colin Miller ’17 pitching a complete game, striking out 6 and allowing only 4 hits en-route to a 6 - 1 victory. The team

17 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE finished the season ranked 4th in New York State. Alex Zulia ’18 was named All-Catholic Offensive Player of the Year, and an additional seven players earned either 1st Team, 2nd Team, or Honorable Mention All-Catholic honors.

Lacrosse, coming off the program’s first ever Monsignor Martin League championship in 2016, repeated their success in 2017 by winning their second consecutive league title over Canisius, 14 - 5. After falling behind early 3 - 0, the Marauders rattled off 11 unanswered goals. Jack Lalley ’17 was named the winner of the Tom Borelli Memorial Award, given annually to the best boys high school player in Western New York. In addition, C.J. Goss ’18 was named All-Catholic Defensive Player of the Year, and ten Marauders earned 1st Team or 2nd Team All-Catholic honors.

Rowing continued their dominance at regattas and meets all over the region and beyond, claiming a total of 19 gold medals in 2016-17. A few highlights include winning the All-High Fontana Regatta at the West Side Rowing Club, the Freshman 8 making the first ever trip to Nationals for a St. Joe’s freshman boat, and Charlie Pratt ’17 being named Buffalo News Prep Talk Boys Rower of the Year.

Track and Field had another incredible season, repeating as All-Catholic champions this year. Sophomore Tyler Doty ’19 was the All-Catholic champion and the individual state champion in the discus.

An incredible 56 student-athletes were recognized as Section VI Scholar-Athletes, including three- time winner Jacob Brill ’17, who was honored with the recognition in the fall, winter, and spring. In addition, 21 seniors declared their intentions to continue their athletic careers in college.

Keep up with all the action this school year with our Marauder Reports on the official St. Joe’s Facebook page, and follow the new official athletics Twitter account, @SJCIAthletics. Go Marauders!

ST. JOE’S WELCOMES NEW ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

Brian Anken, a Cheektowaga native and graduate, was named Athletic Director at St. Joe’s on May 1, 2017. He replaces Pete Schneider, who became the Executive Director of the Monsignor Martin League this past spring. Formerly the assistant athletic director and mens lacrosse coach at Division II Davis & Elkins College in West Virginia, Anken has been a collegiate lacrosse coach, and has 15 years of athletic management experience to his credit at the college level. He is thrilled to return to Buffalo to lead the St. Joe’s athletics department. Anken, his wife Mandy, and their two young children live in Tonawanda.

FALL 2017 • 18 ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT

LEADING THE ACADEMIC VISION

After serving a progressive school Kristin relocated to Buffalo after her district in Colorado, Dr. Kristin Garaas- husband accepted a position at the Johnson returned to her home state of University at Buffalo in 2016. Interested North Dakota in 2005 and continued in finding an opportunity where she could to elevate her skills in the classroom. continue to effect real change for students, Constantly reexamining her curriculum she accepted the role of Vice President and approaches to pedagogy, her goal for Academics at St. Joe’s in May of this was to reach and motivate every student. year. She is excited to become part of It wasn’t long before she was asked to a community with a tradition of high- join the school improvement team, quality academics, talented teachers, and assessing academics, infrastructure, and care for the whole student. student experience. “Providing a rigorous and robust As she began to see positive outcomes, curriculum that meets 21st century Kristin realized she could have a broader needs requires creativity, collaboration, impact in a leadership role and began communication, and critical thinking,” pursuing a doctorate in educational stated Dr. Garaas-Johnson. “Guided by leadership, which she earned in 2014. At the Strategic Plan, I hope to share fresh the same time, she was leading external ideas to keep our teachers excited and evaluation teams for school accreditation supported, and our students engaged and across North Dakota. The teams were successful.” comprised of superintendents, principals, curriculum directors, and teachers. Kristin lives in Williamsville with her husband Craig and two daughters.

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE

Just one year into the expanded Internship Program, we are Joe worked long hours that week, pleased to report that more than 50 students from all grade but the rewards were plentiful. levels were matched with opportunities aligned to their strengths He experienced everything from and career interests. Much of the success is credited to our vast surgery to follow-up patient care, alumni network working in all types of industries – from legal to and he traveled back to Buffalo cybersecurity to construction – who eagerly agreed to participate with an incredible first-hand look as hosts for our young men. at the demanding life of a surgeon. Joe is attending Wake Forest In June, Joseph Rinaldi ’17 spent a week working alongside University this fall with plans to Dr. Kyle Eberlin ’99 at Massachusetts General Hospital in pursue medical school. Boston, MA. Dr. Eberlin is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at the hospital, Associate Director of the MGH Hand Surgery We invite anyone interested in Fellowship, and Assistant Professor of Surgery at Harvard hosting a St. Joe’s intern to contact Joseph Rinaldi ’17 University. He is well-known for his participation on teams that Internship Director James Roland have performed ground-breaking trauma and transplant surgeries ’69 at [email protected] for more in the United States. information.

19 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

FELLOWSHIPS AND THE FUTURE

For six young alumni, becoming leaders of tomorrow means believing in the future of Buffalo through the Western New York Prosperity Fellowship Program. The fellowships, made possible through support from the Prentice Family Foundation, are awarded to college and graduate students at the University at Buffalo and Canisius College with an entrepreneurial drive who want to make a difference in our region.

After a rigorous application and interview, each fellow is awarded $25,000 in scholarship and internship support for an academic year. Fellows are given the opportunity to intern in their chosen fields of interest, where they work alongside and are mentored by leaders in upper-level management, building local professional networks and relationships.

Quite simply, the fellows are some of the best and brightest young minds in Western New York. Here are the six St. Joe’s alumni in the program for 2017-18, and some of their accomplishments:

CANISIUS COLLEGE former research assistant in the Institute specializing in 3-D printing in health for Autism Research. Connor is a co- care. He works as a research associate at Gregory M. Kopra ’13 is a rising senior, founder of International Microloans of the Jacobs Institute. As an undergraduate, majoring in Management with a minor Buffalo, a non-profit corporation which Izzo worked as a researcher in UB’s Lovell in Human Resources. His internship funds subsistence business initiatives in Nanomedicine Laboratory to understand experiences have taken him to Rich third-world countries. After graduation, pediatric neurological conditions. He was Products as well as the Aircraft Division he plans to pursue his MBA, and perhaps the first author on one published journal at Moog. He is an involved student leader eventually a PhD or JD. article, and was a featured speaker at the at Canisius, and recently traveled on a Virtual 3D Printing in Medicine Summit. service immersion trip to an orphanage in UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO In addition to his research, Richard assists Poland. He hopes to connect his passion in the Brain Bootcamp program, which for serving others to working in a non- Nicholas M. Eadie ’10 is in his final year of teaches schoolchildren about heart attack profit organization when he graduates. law school, and is also pursuing a Masters and stroke in a fun and interactive way. degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is Marc T. Mallare ’12 graduated this past a registered patent agent at Simpson & Philip J. Schneider ’10 graduated with spring with a dual degree in Accounting Simpson, PLLC and is the co-founder a degree in Electrical Engineering and Accounting Information Systems, and Vice President of Engineering and and is pursuing a PhD in Electrical and is currently enrolled in the college’s Intellectual Property at the start-up La Engineering. As a member of the MBA program. Marc has been heavily Salle Concepts. Holding both a Bachelor’s Sensor and MicroActuators Learning involved in the Accounting Society and degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lab, Phil’s current research includes played hockey for the Golden Griffins. In UB and Physics from Canisius College, the development of health care-related 2016, he became the goaltending coach his law school concentration focuses on wearable technologies for point-of- for the St. Joe’s Federation Hockey team. intellectual property and startup law. care applications. He is the founder His internships have included the Buffalo Additionally, as a member of the Sensor of Project FIS, an ongoing effort to Sabres, M&T Bank, and currently the and MicroActuators Learning Lab, his inspire and motivate underrepresented audit department at Tronconi Segarra, research includes the development of students in STEM fields through hands- where he works in bankruptcy audits, 3-D wax-based microfluidic devices using on, interactive science experiments. In chapter 7 audit planning, onsite audits, additive manufacturing techniques, and addition, he mentors the FIRST Robotics and revenue certifications. He plans to the optimization of such methods. In the team at St. Joe’s and is part of the work in a public accounting firm. community, Nick has mentored the St. Westminster Charter School initiative, Joe’s FIRST Robotics team, as well as the where he teaches science classes to primary Connor J. Rosenecker ’14 is a rising Our Lady of Black Rock School VEX school students. Phil is the co-founder, junior, majoring in Economics, Finance, Robotics team. President and Chief Technology Officer Business Management, and Psychology. of the start-up La Salle Concepts, and He is President of the Canisius College Richard L. Izzo ’11 graduated in May 2015 aspires to be a successful business owner, Chorale, Vice President of the Commuter with degrees in Biomedical Engineering bridging his backgrounds in science and Students Association, a member of the and Chemistry. He is currently pursuing technology to contribute to the region’s All-College Honors Program, and a his PhD in Biomedical Engineering, economic resurgence.

FALL 2017 • 20 1970s Timothy P. Moriarty ’05 was promoted to Brian S. Meyer ’77, who was promoted director, business development, at McGuire to senior director of news & public affairs Development Company. Moriarty manages at WBFO radio, hosted an event that and identifies new business development featured internationally known journalist initiatives, including real estate consulting, John Hockenberry of The Takeaway. tenant representation, and market research. Meyer also moderated a television program on WNED-TV that focused on the Matthew Aldinger ’07 was promoted from Chautauqua Institution. CPA to in-charge senior accountant at Brock Schecter & Polakoff LLP.

1980s Brian Donovan ’07 received a PhD in Polymer Chemistry and Engineering from Francis M. Conway ’80, commercial Southern Mississippi University. Brian has banking risk manager, was promoted from accepted a postdoctoral position at the US group vice president to senior vice president Air Force Research Lab in Dayton, OH. at M&T Bank. Brian has also received a grant from the National Research Center. 1990s Dr. Robert Z. Ferdman ’08 graduated Ambrose Kam ’90 has been awarded the from the Jacobs School of Medicine 2017 Asian American Engineer of the Year and Biomedical Sciences of SUNY at by the industry. The award was bestowed Buffalo on April 29, 2016, with a degree based on technical leadership skills, in medicine. He is currently an internal managerial experiences, and community medicine resident at UB. service. 2010s 2000s Anthony A. Lafornara ’10 was recently Nicholas A. Gianadda ’00 received the promoted from assistant accountant to BETAs 2017 IT Leader of the Year Award experienced assistant accountant in the Tax through InfoTech WNY. Formed in 1998, Division at The Bonadio Group. InfoTech WNY is a rapidly growing consortium of multi-sized software, Sean J. Maher ’11 was promoted from hardware, telecommunications companies, assistant accountant to experienced government and economic agencies, and assistant accountant in the Small Business educational institutions. Division at The Bonadio Group.

Christopher M. Kepner ’02, after nine Alec D. SanLorenzo ’12 graduated from years working for Victoria Sanders & St. John Fisher College with a degree in Associates as a literary agent and director Biology, and was hired at Empire Genomics of international rights, has launched The in Buffalo as a Marketing Associate. Kepner Agency, a full-service literary agency for authors. Cameron T. Rosenecker ’15 is currently working as a finance intern at 43North. Joseph R. Heins ’03, a senior associate attorney at Lippes Mathias Wexler PARENTS: Do YOU still get your son’s copy, many years after his graduation? If so, we invite Friedman LLP, was appointed to the you to update his information for our records! Board of Directors for the Amherst Youth The Collegiate is one of the best ways to stay Foundation. in touch with St. Joe’s and see what is going on in the school, in the community, and with Kevin M. Donovan, PhD ’04, currently our alumni. Visit the “Tell us About Yourself” an Assistant Professor of Economics at page at the Alumni Section of www.sjci.com, or Notre Dame University, accepted a visiting email [email protected] to update your professor position at Yale University during information today! his sabbatical year from Notre Dame. ALUMNI NEWS AND NOTES NOTES AND NEWS ALUMNI FALL 2017 FALL Alumni News and Notes is a compilation of information reported to St. Joseph’s Collegiate Jay W. Herlan ’04 was hired as a real estate Institute. We are not responsible for its accuracy or 21 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE salesperson by 716 Realty Group. content. Births 1

Justin C. Martin ’94 and his wife, Christine, welcomed twin daughters Lucy Drew and Rowan Christine on November 27, 2016. Christopher Vinci ’97 and his wife, Sarah, welcomed son Salvatore Daniel on October 3, 2016. 2 Brian D. Jones ’98 and his wife, Christy, are proud to announce the birth of their son, Lucas Oliver, on January 26, 2017. He joins his big brother Logan David. Christopher C. Panepinto ’02 and his wife, Meghan, welcomed their son, Joseph Philip, on June 19, 2017. 1 Jonathan M. Gromek ’04 and his wife, Courtney, are proud to announce the birth of their son Theodore George, on June 2, 2017. 2 Thomas Rozborski ’07 and his wife, Allie, welcomed daughter 3 Claire Marion on March 4, 2017. Marriages and Engagements

Matthew W. Pitts ’96 married Kelly Dudzik on October 22, 2016. Brett R. Zieglersmith ’06 married Ilana Spector on July 15, 2017. Matthew P. Tracey ’07 married Marisa Vati on June 17, 2017. 3 Justin Waclawek ’07 married Ali Carey on July 7, 2017. Paul J. Bartlett ’08 married Colleen Wagner on June 11, 2016. 4 David J. Marello ’08 married Heather Schmidt on April 22, 2017. 5 5 In Memoriam 4

Paul N. Cecchini ’56 Brian J. Kuzon ’00 Michael P. Cryan ’56 Peter M. Longo ’63 Patrick J. Cunningham ’55 Arthur B. McDonough Clifford A. Cushing ’67 Dennis P. McNally Laurence D’Arcy ’75 Timothy A. Melchor ’82 Timothy W. Dyrek Raymond R. Nuchereno ’76 Michael J. Eadie ’74 Carol Regan Theodore R. Fink ’38 John L. Sinatra Dorothy L. Fink Joseph L. Sinatra ’97 Mary R. Haberman Thomas B. Taggart ’56 Henry Heubusch ’42 Constantine E. Tzetzo Gerald F. Ivancie ’55 Norman Verbanic Douglas Kochan Werner H. Wahl ’48 Jacob Kreutz Edward Wrosz Baron Kuhlewind ’07 FALL 2017 • 22 ST. JOSEPH’S NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE U.S. POSTAGE A C o m m u n i t y o f E x ce l l e n ce PAID 845 Kenmore Avenue BUFFALO, NY Buffalo, NY 14223-3195 PERMIT NO. 83

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UPCOMING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EVENTS

Sunday, September 17 Golden Plus Mass and Brunch

Sunday, October 29 40th Annual Bob Ivory ’47 Memorial 8K Run OPEN HOUSE Friday, November 10 Spread the word! All families with boys Sports Hall of Fame Induction in grades 5 - 8 are invited to attend, Ceremony and no reservation is required. Sunday, November 26 Sunday, October 1 Breakfast with Santa 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, December 20 Monday, October 2 Half-Year Reunion for the 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Class of 2017 Private tours and Marauder for a Day Visit sjci.com/alumni for more program also available. Visit sjci.com/admissions for details. information. 23 • ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE