The Gospel of JB

Transcription

The Gospel of JB

Summer 2006
the
CHRONICLE
OF
STRAKE
JESUIT
COLLEGE
PREPARATORY
I N
T H I S
I S S U E
The Gospel
of JB
Fr. J.B. Leininger
leaves the classroom
one last time
Houston, Texas
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Page 1
A dozen members of the Class of 2006 are joining their fathers as Strake Jesuit alumni. See page 22 for details.
Table of Contents
Features
The Gospel of JB
p. 4
Graduation 2006
p. 7
Valedictorian Reflections
p. 10
A Better Place
p. 12
Departments
President’s Message 3
Development 14 - 16
Principal's Perspective 17
School News 18
Athletics 19 - 20
Spirituality 21
Alumni News 22 - 23
Class Notes 25 - 26
In Memoriam 27
Births 27
By George 28
THE COVER: Students, faculty, and staff
honor Fr. J.B. Leininger as he leaves his classroom after his last regular school year class
day on May 22, 2006. After over 50 years of
teaching, Fr. Leininger is retiring from the
classroom.
Summer 2006
the
CHRONICLE
Editor
Rick Rivers, Director of Communications
Contributors
Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ
Mr. Richard Nevle
Mrs. Ellen Orseck
Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ
The Chronicle is published four times a year by
the Development Office of Strake Jesuit
College Preparatory, Houston, Texas
President
Principal
Richard Nevle
Director of Development
N.J. Santarcangelo ‘67
Spring_inside_cover.qxp
6/14/06
2:41 PM
Page 1
A dozen members of the Class of 2006 are joining their fathers as Strake Jesuit alumni. See page 22 for details.
Table of Contents
Features
The Gospel of JB
p. 4
Graduation 2006
p. 7
Valedictorian Reflections
p. 10
A Better Place
p. 12
Departments
President’s Message 3
Development 14 - 16
Principal's Perspective 17
School News 18
Athletics 19 - 20
Spirituality 21
Alumni News 22 - 23
Class Notes 25 - 26
In Memoriam 27
Births 27
By George 28
THE COVER: Students, faculty, and staff
honor Fr. J.B. Leininger as he leaves his classroom after his last regular school year class
day on May 22, 2006. After over 50 years of
teaching, Fr. Leininger is retiring from the
classroom.
Summer 2006
the
CHRONICLE
Editor
Rick Rivers, Director of Communications
Contributors
Mr. Richard Nevle
Mrs. Ellen Orseck
Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ
The Chronicle is published four times a year by
the Development Office of Strake Jesuit
College Preparatory, Houston, Texas
President
Principal
Richard Nevle
Director of Development
N.J. Santarcangelo ‘67
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The Loyola Society at Strake Jesuit
G
The
L
ift of a
ifetime
The Loyola Society at Strake
Jesuit includes those individuals
who have made Strake Jesuit
College Preparatory a beneficiary
through a will, a charitable trust
agreement, a gift annuity agreement, a retirement fund, or a life
insurance policy. These gifts
“Time is
the school
in which
we learn.”
are considered part of
Planned Giving.
Such gifts, truly the Gift
of a Lifetime, ensure that the
mission of Strake Jesuit - to
train young boys to become
Men for Others - continues for
generations into the future.
If you would like more
information on Planned Giving at
Strake Jesuit, visit our web site at
www.strakejesuit.org and click on
‘Giving to Strake Jesuit’ and then
‘Planned Giving’. Or contact
NJ Santarcangelo '67 in the Office
of Development at 713.490.8152.
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President’s Message
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The other night four other Jesuits and I were driving home after dinner with the family of a student who had died of cancer this spring. The evening had been delightful,
but we all felt the sadness of the boy's death. In the car we recalled the year's
tragedies: Katrina and the relocation of hundreds of students to our campus, the
deaths of this student and four young alumni, the deaths of several parents, and finally the sudden death of Fr. Brian Zinnamon just the week before.
Each May finds students and faculty tired from the hard work of the school year, and
all of us in the car felt that fatigue. Yet we all agreed when one of us said that this
year had also been full of great grace. It has, and not in spite of what happened, but
in some ways because of it.
President
In retrospect it is easy to see that the challenges of hosting over 400 students from
Jesuit High in New Orleans turned into moments of grace. We helped those in need,
made new friendships and learned life lessons. As I mentioned to someone recently, we were recklessly generous, and it proved successful on all levels.
Our students continue to bring honor to the school through their successes in the
classroom and out. The listing of awards to our seniors was once again impressive.
Our athletic teams prospered, and our golf team won their second straight district
championship. Our debate team continued its national prominence. Graduation celebrated completion for 202 seniors who now move on to some of the finest universities across the country. Our triumphs have been many.
Over 350 people gathered at the Houstonian in May to celebrate five decades of
service by Fr. J.B. Leininger. It was a remarkable evening. Many tales were told and
more than a few tears shed as we gathered around a man whose whole life has been
dedicated to teaching. While Fr. Leininger may have had no need to hear our praise
and thanks, we needed to voice our feelings. While saying "Thank You" was one of
those things we learned in kindergarten, too often we say it only to the person who
passes the salt, not to those who have helped shape our lives.
I am not sure I will ever forget the scene of hundreds of students lining the 200 building corridor in the final moments of the school year. Word had gotten out that this
was the last class Fr. Leininger would teach. Spontaneously students rushed to the
building before the bell, crowded the hallway and hushed each other so that as Fr.
Leininger emerged the last time from 205 they could surprise and cheer him and
chant, "JB, SJ!" and sing him Happy Birthday on his 82nd. How touching to see students so mindful of this aged Jesuit. And an unusual way to end an unusual school
year. You could even detect a smile on Fr. Leininger's face as he parted that sea of
cheering students. And people say there are no such things as miracles.
The following day we celebrated the life of Fr. Zinnamon with the Mass of the
Resurrection in the Parsley Center. Fr. Z served as president here for ten years
immediately prior to my arrival. Just recently he and I had discussed some school
issues, and he had volunteered to assist me with a particular problem. During the
wake many people said that they had recently seen him at a wedding, a parish
renewal, a retreat, at dinner, in their home, etc. Brian had remained strongly connected to this community, and we will all miss him very much.
No one around here can remember a year quite like this one. Tears of sorrow. Tears
of joy. Tears of thanksgiving. Much grace.
Summer will replenish the spirit and fatigue will soon pass. Next year promises to be
an exciting one as we open our new Athletic Complex, and plan for the next project.
We look forward to the fall as we continue to touch the lives of our students in ways
that help them to grow as Men for Others - heart, mind, body, soul.
Have a safe and blessed summer.
www.strakejesuit.org
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The
ospel
G of
JB
by Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ
After more than 30 years teaching
at Strake Jesuit and more than 50
years in his Jesuit teaching career,
this past school year was the last for
Fr. J.B. Leininger in the classroom.
The occasion was cause for both
celebration and reflection.
w
hen she awoke that morning, the Houston
Chronicle reporter had no idea of the challenge that
lay before her. She was to interview Father Joseph
Blessing Leininger of Strake Jesuit College
Preparatory on the occasion of his retirement from
56 years of teaching boys at Jesuit high schools
across the South and over seas. Her task was to
extract loquaciousness from a man infamous for his
economy of words.
She never had a chance.
Legend has it that a St. Agnes student years
ago tried to do the same, but for a different reason.
She approached Fr. Leininger and said, "Father, I
have a bet with these Strake Jesuit guys that I could
get you to say more than two words to me." JB, so
the story goes, turned to her with an expressionless
face and said, "You lose." (I asked JB the other
night, after his gala, to tell me whether or not that
legend was true. His one word answer, "Maybe"
seemed to confirm its veracity.)
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Knowing JB would never, ever brag
about himself about anything, Rick
Rivers, the communications director at
Strake Jesuit gathered a few faculty and
staff to save the reporter from what was
sure to be a very short conversation.
Myself and four or five others moved JB's
classroom desks in a semi-circle facing
the reporter and him.
Here are a few
gems from an interview I will never forget
(and nor will the reporter, to be sure!):
Reporter: Father Leininger, 38 years of
teaching, huh?-That's quite an accomplishment! What's kept you in the class-
Some alum’s fondest memories of Fr. Leininger were the times that he would
spend with them outside the classroom, giving lessons not on math, but on life.
room all of those years?
JB: Obedience.
Thibs: Come on, now JB, you know that
JB: Teach.
year, decade after decade, well, that
even if you were to choose every job
Silence…..
makes him one in a million.
assignment over the years, you would
Thibs: Teach, huh? Anything else?
have chosen high school work every time,
JB: No.
The year that the Marshall Plan was
developed to help Europe recover from
World War II, JB could be found reviewing
right?
JB: Yes.
Then the bell rang for JB's next
declensions with Tampa teenagers. The
class. He turned to the reporter and said,
year that William Golding published Lord
After a few other unsuccessful questions,
"That's it."
of the Flies, JB was wiping out some poor
the reporter nervously looked down at
always, he was right.
JB's service record.
And we all knew that, as
soul in a handball court at Shreveport
I was neither surprised nor disap-
Jesuit. The year that Martin Luther King,
pointed with JB's terse advise to me. I
Jr. gave his I have a Dream speech in
Reporter: Wow, Father, it says here that
was not disappointed because, as all of
Washington DC, JB's students were
you've even taught in Australia?
his fans would attest, the words that JB
going to the board in Dallas. The year
JB: Yes.
speaks are far less important than the
that Rolling Stone magazine debuted,
Reporter: (after waiting in vain for more
Gospel that he has proclaimed every day
there was no nonsense in a classroom at
details): How did you end up there?
of his 82 years. Inspired by his succinct
Jesuit High, New Orleans.
JB: Obedience.
style, I'll state the Gospel of JB in one
word: Constancy.
Change is the name of the game in
After more fruitless attempts, the
reporter turned to the future.
today's world. Changing homes, chang-
And JB was at Strake Jesuit in
Houston teaching math, playing scribbage, presiding at Mass and counseling
young men…
ing jobs, changing wives…this is the com-
Reporter: And I hear that you'll be tutor-
mon currency of our society. I'm often
...the year IBM introduced the floppy disk
ing students next year. How do you plan
asked why, in my opinion, are there so
...the year Johnny Carson retired
to explain those difficult mathematical
few joining the priesthood and religious
...the year thousands died in Rwanda
concepts to adolescent boys?
life today. "That's easy," I say. "My gen-
...the year the World Trade Center was
JB (with an incredulous look on his face):
eration is terrified of anything that chal-
destroyed by terrorists
They're not difficult!
lenges us to do the same thing every day,
...the year the Red Sox won the World
to be the same person every day." It is
Series
Near the end of the interview, thinking
wrong to speak of a priestly vocation cri-
...the year the world said goodbye to John
that I had come up with the ultimate con-
sis. What we have is a commitment cri-
Paul II
versation starter, I turned to JB.
sis.
"Teach," JB said to me. And that is
And then there's JB. It is extraordi-
what he's done all these years. The year
Thibs: JB, what would you advise a
nary enough that JB has remained a poor,
the Beatles appeared on Ed Sullivan and
young Jesuit priest like me, following in
chaste, obedient priest for over 50 years.
the year they broke up, the year JFK nar-
your footsteps, wanting to be like you?
But for JB to do the same thing, year after
rowly beat Richard Nixon and the year of
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his assassination, the year the Berlin wall was
erected and the year it came down: as kingdoms rose and fell, as pop stars and popes
came and went, JB could be found in a classroom somewhere, teaching Latin vocabulary,
the circumference of a circle, the way to
Salvation.
There once were two little frogs who fell
into a deep pail of milk. One of the frogs was a
lazy pessimist and was ready to give up and
drown. The other pushed him to keep working,
despite their hopeless situation…. After a great
deal of paddling, the frogs churned the milk to
butter and happily hopped away.
JB told this story in an unusually playful
homily shortly after I arrived at Strake Jesuit
and more importantly, only months into my
long-awaited priesthood. For the rest of that
year, I woke up every morning, made a pot of
coffee, opened my curtains and sat in my armchair to pray. Every morning, without exception, I looked across the pre-dawn dewy lawn
and watched, or rather, contemplated Father
ABOVE: For many years, Fr. Leininger not only served as the moderator of the
lunchtime Croquet Club, he was an active participant.
BELOW: A very familiar image at Jesuit, Fr. Leininger stands in the back of his
classroom, Room 205, while a student spends time “at the board”.
JB Leininger presiding at his own daily 6:15am
Mass, shakily lifting the host, lifting the chalice,
lifting the host, lifting the chalice, again and
again every day starting some beautiful morning six decades ago and continuing to this very
morning.
And I think of that optimistic, pragmatic
and industrious frog turning something raw into
something rich through steady labor and determination. And I think of those thousands and
thousands of boys going to JB's board laboriously working out the solution to their own raw
ignorance and then moving from that board to
corporate board rooms, judges' benches, missionary fields, operating tables, and yes, even
to the altar of God. And I think of my own fledgling priesthood, at times drowning in the impossibility of bringing God down to a world suffocating from its own affluence, indifference,
woundedness and injustice.
And I hear the voice of God, gravelly,
grandfatherly, speaking to my heart, consistently saying only two words, "Keep going."
And I rise from my chair and put on that same
black outfit and walk to my classroom not far
from JB's.
And on my way over, I pray for constancy.
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Paul Ramirez, Valedictorian of the Class of 2006, offered a unique take on the completion of his
education at Strake Jesuit. Ultimately he had a heartfelt wish for each member of the Class of 2006.
Strake Jesuit, we need to talk. This is
hard, and I'm not sure how to tell you this,
but we have to stop seeing each other. I'm
sorry. But it's not you. It's me. People
change, people grow up, people go to college. Don't make this any harder than it is.
I mean, we had our four years together,
and it was an amazing time, but I just
have to go, we all have to go, okay?
Please try and understand.
In a lot of ways, leaving Strake Jesuit
feels less like simply graduating from a
school and more like breaking up a relationship. And for most people, breaking up
is a hard thing to deal with. In fact, included with your diploma this year will be a
pint of Ben and Jerry's ice cream. Use as
much as you need. I think breaking up is
an apt analogy for graduating, though,
because our Strake Jesuit experience has
been one of such life and of such passion,
that it's hard to simply call this place a
school.
Right now, I don't really have a lot of
advice on graduating from high school.
I've, never done it before and I don't really know what to say. But I do have some
experience with breaking up. In fact, I just
ended a relationship with a girl about a
month ago. I know I know, we'll skip the
sob story, but I do have a little bit of wisdom to share. So my first piece of advice
on breaking up: merely changing your
relationship status on Myspace from dating to single without telling anyone doesn't work. Doesn't even mean you've broken up, it means nothing. Oh, and for all
the parents in the room, Myspace is a kind
of online journal that allows you to whine
about your day, show conceited photos of
yourself, and share useless information. I
got one as fast as I could. Second piece
of advice, when you want to break up with
someone, don't just disappear one day. I
know it's tempting and it sounds easy just
to high tail it out of the relationship and
possibly out of the city, but one day, I
promise you, that you'll be walking
through the cereal aisle of the grocery
store when you'll suddenly cross paths
with your ex and she'll spontaneously leg
sweep you to the ground and pin you
down, all the while yelling at you for being
a "huge jerk" and not giving her "closure."
Anyway, point is, don't date girls that know
karate. Yea, I'm just kidding, that one didn't really happen, but the advice about
disappearing still stands.
Anyway, I know that you came here
today for a graduation, not to listen to a
thin, Asian Dr. Phil. In all seriousness
though, I think there's some wisdom - and
relevance - in these two pieces of relationship advice. In a lot of ways, graduation may seem like that simple change
from dating to single on Myspace. Today,
we're going to get a piece of paper that
says we're done, we've graduated, and
then some of us, particularly me, will
eagerly go home tonight to Myspace and
change the student status under Strake
Jesuit from current student to alumni. And
then, after it's all finished, we'll be tempted to forget all of our experiences here
and just disappear from Jesuit altogether.
But I don't think it's that simple.
Because Strake Jesuit is like an Ex who
stays with you. Not the kind of Ex that
stays with you because she's always calling and leaving messages and for some
reason always driving by your house,
man that was a long week, but the kind of
ex that stays with you because they have
changed something in your heart in a
positive way. An Ex that you'll always
remember even though you have to
leave. And, if the alumni fundraising drive
is any indication, an Ex that always needs
money. But unlike other relationships, I
don't think we'll ever get that sense of closure on this portion of our lives, at least I
won't, because our experiences at Strake
will always be a part of us, and although
we'll move on to other things, the things
we have learned here will continue to
affect us wherever we go.
By now, it may just be hitting you:
"Paul is up there, talking about his ex girlfriends, on graduation." Although this may
seem a little different, I think it's because
Strake Jesuit is a little different. There are
not a lot of schools where you can genuinely talk about graduation as breaking
up. Perhaps if this were some other
school, some other graduation ceremony,
the valedictorian might focus on something like the intense academics that
everyone survived to get there. Here, of
course, it is no exception. We did our
work, we pulled the all-nighters, we
begged our teachers not to fail us, and we
earned a spot to celebrate here today.
But talking about that doesn't really
get to the heart of Strake Jesuit. I mean,
when you're breaking up with someone,
you don't talk about what you had for dinner last night. So let me make this clear.
The essence of Strake Jesuit is not just
the academics. In fact, it's not the classrooms or the smart boards. Strake Jesuit
is not our proud football team or our
nationally ranked debate program. It's not
even homeroom 305. It is a part of all of
these things, but at the same time it is far
deeper.
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But, class of 2006, I think that I don't
really even have to tell you what the
essence of Strake Jesuit is, because by
now, after four years, I think we've felt it.
It was something stirring in the cool air of
the gym during our Freshman retreat
when each of our small groups placed
their candle on the altar. And when the
lights were turned dim, we listened, lit
only by these small flickering flames, as
our classmates shared some of the deepest parts of their lives.
It was there, too, in the sound of our
cheers, when Tomas, dressed up as a
tank, won the Big Brother Little Brother
costume contest along with his squadron
of Barbie soldiers. Kudos again to you.
And only two weeks ago, it was a feeling
of quiet excitement as we gathered for
our final mass and we gave our own homily, sharing with each other what these
past four years have meant. What I said
there that day remains true. It really has
been such an honor to be a part of your
lives.
The essence of Strake Jesuit is there
in all the faculty too. Father Thibs, I'll
never forget the tears in your eyes during
your Farewell Mass last Thursday, when
you looked at me and said "the Body of
Christ." And so, Father, although we're
sad that you too are leaving Strake, at the
very least, allow me to say that we are
proud to call you a member of the class of
2006.
And even our parents have shown us
the meaning of Strake Jesuit. If I may, I'd
like to read part of a letter that my mom
wrote to me during a retreat.
"My dearest Paul, You are a gift to us
from God. Your soft, kindhearted personality has shown ever since you were a
child. You have shared yourself with
"....being here in this
community of
Strake Jesuit has
shown me, has
shown all of us, a
little bit of what it
means to love. "
everyone by sharing your gifts and your
talents so willingly. You are so focused in
everything that you do. Your talents have
awed me. I love you for who you are and
who you will become. I want you to know
and remember that wherever you are, I
will always be there for you. With great
love, mom."
With great love. Sitting in this room
right now are over 200 mothers and 200
fathers who wrote a letter just like this
one: with great love. And it has been only
by your great love, your boundless care,
concern, your passion and your guidance
that we are here today. And mom, I can
only hope that one day I'll love with that
same great love that you have shown me.
But I'll try hard.
So that's why leaving Strake Jesuit
feels more like breaking up a relationship
than simply graduating from a school.
Because a school is merely the campus,
the classrooms, the books. But it's all of
you, parents, teachers, friends, who are
the essence of Strake Jesuit. And when
we graduate, it means that our community, our formal relationship to one another
will have come to an end. But trust me,
Fr. Lahart, Mr. Nevle. Trust me, parents,
faculty, and friends, trust me when I say
that we the class of 2006 are ready to
graduate and to move on. Because
although we will soon go our separate
ways, there remains within each of us the
most essential thing of all: like any good
relationship, being here in this community of Strake Jesuit has shown me, has
shown all of us, a little bit of what it means
to love.
But this kind of education does not
stop here. And so, class of 2006, as we
graduate, as we break up today, I don't
wish you success. I don't wish you
strength. I don't wish you wisdom or
courage. I wish you what our relationship
with Strake Jesuit has already begun to
teach us. I wish you love.
Class of 2006 - Awards and Honors
This group of young men includes 24 students who were recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program.
Collectively, the Class of 2006 earned 463 scholarships and grants totaling over $14 million, the largest amount in the
history of the school. Additionally, in the continuing Jesuit tradition of being Men for Others, the members of this class
performed over 21,000 hours of community service across Houston, the United States and the world.
JSEA Award - Jarrett Thomas Harden
Second Highest GPA - Paul Edward Ramirez
John F. Kennedy Community Service Award - Luis Julian Vallejo
Valedictorian - Paul Edward Ramirez
Steven Brian McConnell '78 Award - Austin Louis Tennette II
Salutatorian - Christopher Dean Harding
Williams Award - Parker Chase Holcomb
Recognized by National Merit Scholarship Program - 24
Rev. Michael F. Kennelly, SJ Service Award - Guillermo Torre
National Merit Finalists - 6
Frank Ribelin Award in the Arts - Micah William Stoup
National Merit Commended Students - 18
Crusader Award - Kelly Benjamin Halaszyn
National Hispanic Scholars - 8
Highest GPA - Kevin James Miller & Taylor Christian Rhyne
National Achievement Finalists - 3
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As alumni from eight different classes prepare for their Reunion in August, on the following pages the
Valedictorians from many of those classes offer a reflection on their graduation addresses and
on their time at Jesuit.
Class of '66 - Kirk Bush
Speaking 40 years ago at graduation, I
noted first my worry at the prospect of leaving
the predictable security of parents and school.
The future did hold insecure moments: starting
college, joining the military, marriage, that first
child, opening a law practice twice, leaving a
secure job for an uncertain future in a new
state.
These experiences made life interesting. Isn't it amazing
that God has made a world where what we do really counts?
Jesuit prepared us for life far better than most schools.
Education rooted in faith has depth, and we also got Jesuit quality and expectations. I closed my comments in my valedictorian
address by deciding that maybe I was not so worried about the
uncertain future after all.
Well, at age 58, a significant part of that future is now in the
past. The birth of my children stands as the biggest miracle. The
most important decision was marriage. I did not know when I left
Jesuit that I would eventually become an attorney, but that work
has suited me. I certainly have not always met my own expectations. But life has never been dull.
I look forward with less worry to what the next decades may
bring.
After Jesuit: Kirk received a degree in political science
from Rice University and a JD from South Texas College of Law.
He practiced ten years in Houston and was assistant District
Attorney in Brownsville, Texas. Since 1986 he has has a law
office and lived in Ft. Collins, Colorado with his wife Kathy (St.
Agnes, '68) and 3 daughters.
Class of '71 Tom Santoro
My valedictorian address of 1971 could be
summarized into two main themes. The first
was the importance of honestly knowing people. The second was the recognition of the
great education which we received at Strake
Jesuit. Based on my experiences during the
past 35 years, the first was an understatement;
the second was an even bigger understatement.
I reflected on my speech while at my thirteenth annual
retreat at Mount Manresa Jesuit Retreat House in Staten Island,
across from the site of the World Trade Center. In 1971 I discussed people who harbor hate and love. There is no better
place to actually see this stark contrast than at this location.
The theme of the retreat dealt with Christ's parables. The
talents given to the three servants, used and buried; the seeds
sown by the farmer, on fertile ground or on rocks; the wedding
feast, many are called but few are interested.
The members of our class are entering the latter part of our
lives. Our Jesuit education has been a very valuable gift. Have
we used this gift, this talent, or did we bury it in our daily cares?
Has this seed flourished or did it die with our normal worries?
Are we preparing for the feast or preferring to go somewhere
else?
After Jesuit: Tom received a BS in Mathematics and
Economics from Tulane University in 1975 graduating Phi Beta
Kappa. He received an MBA in 1976 from Tulane in Accounting
and Finance. He has lived in Connecticut since 1977. He is Vice
President and General Manager, DRS Fermont, a subsidiary of
DRS Technologies, a major defense contractor. His son, Tom,
recently graduated from Villanova University and his daughter,
Larissa, graduated from Providence College and is now pursuing graduate studies in Architecture. He lives in Connecticut with
his wife, Halina.
Class of '76 Ramon Fernandez
It has been 30 years since my class graduated, the Class of '76. At my address, I spoke
about the responsible involvement of our class
in every aspect of school life. I also reflected
on how Jesuit provided a proper atmosphere
for our involvement, encouraging us and challenging us along the way. I emphasized that
our Jesuit education taught us not only the knowledge acquired
from books, but more importantly, the attitudes and values necessary to live our Christian faith.
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Today those comments continue to have meaning for me.
In referring to the involvement of our class, I mentioned the
devotion of the school faculty and staff. Thirty years later I realize more than ever how important the selfless dedication of
those men and women has been to my development as a total
person.
In my decision to become an educator, I have tried purposefully --- though not always succeeding --- to follow in their footsteps. I hope that some day I come close to the wisdom, dedication, and caring attitude of my mentors: Fr. Alchediak, Fr.
Billac, Mr. Gilbert, Mr. Hosty, Mr. Nevle, many others, and, of
course, Fr. Leininger. Fr. Leininger was my senior-year calculus
teacher as well as the bowling club adviser where I was an
active member all four years.
He taught me discipline when he would not allow me to turn
in a quiz after he had called time and I failed to turn it in promptly. He taught me dedication when he participated in the weekly
bowling club activities without fail year after year. And he taught
me to be a Man for Others when he was there for me and any
other student, listening to our problems and concerns and giving
wise counsel.
It is not easy to live these core values consistently day after
day. Fr. Leininger and the rest of the faculty and staff are an
inspiration to the rest of us as we try to live up to their expectations. And for that we should be grateful to be a Strake Jesuit
graduate.
After Jesuit: Ramon graduated from the University of St.
Thomas with a BA in accounting and the University of Houston
with an MBA. He is also a CPA and CFP. For the past 23 years
he has been a professor of accounting and taxation at the
University of St. Thomas. He is particularly proud of his nephew,
Richard Hinkley, Strake Jesuit Class of 2002, who graduated
from Notre Dame this past May and has decided to enter the
Jesuit novitiate at Grand Coteau.
Class of '81 Milan Moore
"Well, we finally made it." So begins my
valedictory address from 25 years past. The
notion of distilling a quarter-century into a few
well-chosen remarks is daunting. It feels like
the quintessential high school nightmare in
which one finds oneself suddenly in an SAT
exam room with a blank test sheet and only 5
minutes remaining in the exam.
Yet, in reading through the long-lost text of my address, I
am struck that I chose Milton's quote from Paradise Lost: "To
know that which before us lies in daily life, is the prime wisdom."
Could I have known then what I have come to appreciate since?
Could I have known with certainty that each day is a gift and that
miracles abound in daily life? I had assumed that it was experi-
10 Summer 2006
ence… raising a family, a ten year stint in the Army, the trials and
joys of medical school, residency, and surgical practice… which
had given me the wisdom to appreciate each moment as a
blessing.
The worldly evils I mentioned in my address, "warfare, terrorism, poverty, and violent crime," are still with us. They have
changed only in detail, not in their immediacy. These threats do
not define us. Our daily response to others defines each of us.
The hug, the smile, the shared laughter - these are the miracles.
At Strake Jesuit, we learned that the examined life must be a life
for others, for our families, for our friends, for our communities,
and for our world. For me, this remains the only answer that
counts. I simply didn't realize, until now, that we knew this back
then. For this, we owe Strake Jesuit an immeasurable debt. So,
I was right after all… we finally made it!
After Jesuit: Milan graduated with a BA in Economics from
Yale and received an MD and an MPH from Harvard. He then
served 10 years on active Duty in the Army, completing an
Orthopaedic Surgery Residency at Walter Reed, and serving as
Chief of the Orthopaedic Department at Fort Hood, Texas. He
followed his military exit in 2000 with a fellowship in joint
replacement at the Anderson Clinic in Alexandria, Virginia and
joined Cascade Orthopaedics in Auburn, Washington. He is the
joint replacement specialist and the practice administrator for his
group. Two years ago he also started a consulting business
focusing on optimizing private medical practices. He has been
married to his wife Sandra for 11 years and they have two sons,
Alexander, 9, and Jack, 8.
Class of '86 Paul Bondor
I am quite confident that no one reading
these paragraphs remembers anything about
the valedictory address I had the honor to give
at our graduation twenty years ago. I vaguely
remember writing it, but until I was given the
opportunity to reread it recently, I remembered
very little about it myself.
Looking at it critically today, in one sense there is nothing
particularly memorable in it; perhaps such things rarely age well.
After all, who among us at eighteen needed reminding that the
best of our lives was yet to come? Everything was new, and
everything held the promise of the unknown. Trite (or at least
innocent) though my speech may appear to me now, I am
pleased to report that I got a few things right.
Twenty years ago, I spoke of the personal journey each of
us made as students at Strake Jesuit (academic, spiritual, and
social), and the new life that awaited each of us after graduation.
In closing, I spoke of our next challenge: pursuit of wisdom to
go with all of the knowledge Jesuit had provided us. I still
believe that our years at Jesuit prepared us well for the begin-
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ning of our adult lives twenty years ago, and I still believe that
the ongoing pursuit of wisdom we began at Jesuit will enable us
to continue to make the best use of our education over the
course of the next twenty years.
I don't know about you, but I've still got a long way to go in
the wisdom department. Jesuit constantly reminded us to be
men for others; I think we're in a phase of our lives when it occasionally seems that our lives may be all about others: certainly
our various commitments to family, friends, and clients provide
more than enough "others" to tend to. Facetiousness aside, it is
the time we have spent, do spend, and will continue to spend
tending to others in the first two categories - as well as to anyone else whose life we have the opportunity to touch in a positive way - that truly makes our lives meaningful. That, too, is a
lesson learned at Jesuit, and it remains just as relevant today as
it was on May 25, 1986.
Although I'm sure we've accomplished a lot in our first twenty years, we've still got a long way to go, and much good left to
accomplish. If these past two decades are any indication, I am
sure that the next two will speed by alarmingly quickly.
Fortunately, the wisdom should show up any day now.
After Jesuit: Paul earned a B.S.E in Mechanial and
Aerospace Engineering from Princeton University. He then
earned his J.D, from the University of Michigan. He is an attorney with Kirkland & Ellis LLP in New York where he lives with
this wife, Page.
Class of '91 Mark Montalbano
to learn and a willingness to give back to the community embodied our class during our four years.
Although we were the smallest graduating class since the
late 1970s, I proudly spoke of the lasting traditions that our class
initiated. The class of 1991 exemplified Men for Others by starting the Sophomore Class Project, which provides Christmas
gifts to needy children. We initiated a recycling program and
started the Big Brother-Little Brother tradition to welcome and
guide the freshman during their first year. Perhaps the proudest
athletic legacy of our class was defeating St. Thomas to end an
8 year run of football losses.
In my address, I borrowed a quote that said, "Success is
about ABCs - Ability, Breaks and Courage." Little did I know that
those words would still ring true 15 years later. We knew our
years at Strake Jesuit had started us on the right path to reach
our greatest level of ability. Hopefully, we have all had our fair
share of breaks over the past 15 years. Through the support of
family and friends, we have been instilled with the courage necessary to continually reach our fullest potential, both professionally and spiritually. Strake Jesuit gave us a solid foundation and
we continue to lead by example every day.
After Jesuit: Mark graduated from Trinity University with a
degree in Business Administration. He worked in the Houston
area for 5 years earning his C.P.A. and then returned to school
to earn an MBA at SMU in Dallas in 2002. He now lives near
Dallas with his wife, Gina and is a Product Manager for Sabre
Airline Solutions in Southlake, Texas.
We entered the halls of Strake Jesuit in
August 1987, during an economic time which
still brings chills to many native Houstonians.
The bottom had fallen out of the oil boom and
many families were facing significant financial
challenges. A spirit of shared sacrifice, a desire
CLASS OF 2006 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES
Allegheny College
Auburn University
Austin College
Baylor University
Boston College
Bucknell University
Case Western Reserve
Clemson University
College of the Holy Cross
College of William & Mary
Colorado School of Mines
Colorado State University
Columbia University
Creighton University
DePaul University
Elon University
Evergreen State University
Fordham University
Georgetown University
Georgia Tech University
Haverford College
Houston Baptist University
Humboldt State
Indiana University
Iowa State University
John Carroll University
Kansas State University
Le Moyne College
1
6
1
12
3
1
2
2
1
1
3
2
1
5
1
1
1
2
4
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
Louisiana Tech University
Loyola - Chicago
Loyola - New Orleans
Loyola of Maryland
Louisiana State University
Marietta College
Marquette University
Mercer University
Miami University - Ohio
Michigan State University
Millsaps College
Northwestern University
New York University
Oberlin College
Penn State University
Providence College
Purdue University
Regis University
Rhodes College
Rice University
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rutgers University
Sacred Heart University
Sam Houston State University
Santa Clara University
School of Art Institute of Chicago
School of Visual Arts and Designs
Southern Methodist University
1
2
7
1
14
1
2
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
2
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
6
Southwestern University
Spring Hill College
St. Edwards University
St. Joseph's University
St. Louis University
St. Mary's Univ. - San Antonio
Stanford University
Stephen F. Austin State University
State Univ. of New York/Buffalo
Texas Christian University
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M Uiniversity/Galveston
Texas State University
Texas Tech University
The Citadel
Trinity University
Tulane University
United States Naval Academy
University of Alabama
University of Arkansas
Univ. of California - Santa Cruz
University of Colorado/Boulder
University of Dallas
University of Dayton
University of Detroit/Mercy
University of Houston
University of Iowa
University of Kansas
2
6
12
1
18
3
1
2
1
5
22
1
1
22
1
7
4
1
3
1
1
3
4
1
1
17
1
1
University of Louisiana/Lafayette 2
University of Miami
2
University of Mississippi
4
University of Missouri/Rolla
1
University of New Mexico
1
Univ. of North Carolina/Chapel Hill 1
University of North Texas
2
University of Notre Dame
3
University of Oklahoma
5
University of Oregon - Eugene
1
University of Pittsburgh
1
University of South Carolina
2
University of Southern California 3
University of St. Thomas
4
University of Texas/Austin
19
University of Texas/Dallas
6
University of Texas/San Antonio 12
University of the South
1
University of Tulsa
6
University of Vermont
1
University of Virginia
1
Vanderbilt University
2
Villanova University
1
Virginia Military Institute
1
Virginia Tech University
1
Wake Forest University
1
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
2
Xavier University
3
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a better place
The death of Fr. Brian Zinnamon in May was an opportunity to reflect on his ten years as
president of Strake Jesuit and his impact on the school, both then and now.
Fr. Brian Zinnamon, SJ arrived at the Jesuit campus on Bellaire
Boulevard in 1986 as a teacher and he left in 2000 after serving the last
ten years as the school's president. In between he touched the lives of
countless members of the Strake Jesuit family - students, alumni, and
parents.
On Tuesday, May 16, 2006, Fr. Zinnamon died of a heart attack and
in that passing the school lost a dear friend.
Born on Hamilton Air Force Base in California on September 2, 1948
to Colonel David R. and Audren J. Berkeley Zinnamon, he graduated from
Jesuit High School in Tampa, Florida. He went on to earn a B.A. in
Secondary Education from Loyola University New Orleans in 1973 and
then a Master of Arts in Teaching History from Tulane University, a
Masters of Divinity from the Jesuit School of Theology at Chicago, and a
Masters of Education in Private School Administration from the University
of San Francisco.
Fr. Zinnamon entered the Jesuits in 1970 and was ordained in Grand
Coteau, Louisiana, on December 29, 1979. As a member of the New
Orleans Province he had been a Jesuit for 36 years and a priest for 26
years.
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Early in his career he served at Jesuit
returned to campus in August, 2004 when
during his time at Jesuit. Additionally, he
College Preparatory in Dallas as principal
the building was dedicated as the Parsley
continued to serve regularly at The
from 1979-1985 before coming to Strake
Center. Then, in December 2000, con-
Cenacle by leading retreats.
Jesuit in 1986. In his first two years here
struction began on the 800 building, a
While he certainly left a legacy of fab-
his primary role at the school was as a
facility that is virtually unequalled as a
ulous new buildings and a magnificent
Theology teacher. In his third year,1988-
high school classroom building in the city
contribution to the arts in the Art Museum,
89, the role of School Chaplain was
of Houston.
most
people
fondly
remember
Fr.
added to his responsibilities. He served in
"Fr. Zinnamon was just the fourth
those duel capacities until he was named
president of the school, so he had the
"Brian genuinely loved people and he
president in 1990. He held that position
opportunity to have a significant impact,"
loved to be with people," recalled Richard
until leaving the school in 2000.
Zinnamon as a people person.
observed current president Fr. Daniel
Nevle. "One of the reasons that I think
While at Jesuit, aside from his over-
Lahart. "He took advantage of that oppor-
that he was so successful as a retreat
sight of the day-to-day operations of the
tunity in numerous ways. In brick and
director was his ability not just to listen to
school, Fr. Zinnamon was leader in the
mortar he left the legacy of the Parsley
a person's story, but his openness and
construction of two new buildings as well
Center and the 800 Building. In the arts
enthusiasm made them willing to tell that
as the establishment of the Strake Jesuit
he began the Strake Jesuit Art Museum
story. One of the lessons I learned from
Art Museum.
which allows our students to study in the
him was not to give up on a kid. He often
surroundings of a wide variety of art
had more faith in people than they had in
works."
themselves."
Under
his
leadership,
the
Art
Museum was founded and incorporated in
1996. Today it is recognized by the city of
After leaving Jesuit, he was pastoral
All that being said, the measure of
Houston as an official museum and has
assistant of St. Francis Xavier Church in
any leader and their impact on an institu-
only grown in importance, size, and
New York from 2001-2004 and then was
tion is the comparison of that institution
impact on student life. In the fall of 1997
assigned to the Jesuit Spirituality Center
when they arrived compared to when they
he was on hand for the groundbreaking of
in Grand Coteau in 2004. Just last sum-
left. By that account, Fr. Zinnamon's time
the Student Center, now know as the
mer Fr. Zinnamon celebrated his 25th
at Strake Jesuit would be considered a
Parsley Center. That facility was complet-
Jubilee as a priest with many of his friends
success.
ed in the spring of 1998 and Fr. Zinnamon
in New Orleans.
"In the hearts of students and par-
After his departure, he maintained
ents, Brian left an indelible mark as a
close ties to many of the friends
priest and a friend," commented Fr.
and families he had grown close to
Lahart. "Strake Jesuit is a much better
school today because of the life of Fr.
Brian Zinnamon."
Fr. Zinnamon was joined by Bob and
Gana Parsley at the groundbreaking
ceremonies for the new Student
Center in the fall of 1997 (top) and
returned to campus in August, 2004
to serve at ceremonies when the
building was dedicated as the
Parsley Center (bottom).
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DEVELOPMENT
The Greater Glory:
Athletic Center Nears Completion
As the 2005-2006 school year was drawing to a close, con-
struction of the new Athletic Center Complex was, itself, entering
the final phase. While the exterior walls had been up for several
months, most of the progress was being made inside.
By mid-June, the basketball floors were being installed in
shape. In addition, construction of the four new lighted tennis
courts was beginning.
Weather and work permitting, it is expected that construction
may be complete slightly ahead of schedule, sometime in early
August.
both the new, 2,400 seat competition gym as well the new field
The excitement and anticipation are building. Students, par-
house gym which includes three full-size courts. Locker rooms,
ents, alumni, faculty, and staff are all anxiously awaiting that first
coaches offices, the new weight room and the training room were
day, that first event. The 2006-2007 school year promises to be
all taking shape.
a memorable one that will begin with the dedication and Grand
Not all the work was being done inside, however, also by the
Opening of this magnificent new facility.
time that school ended, the new competition pool was taking
Clockwise from top left: The exterior of the new Fieldhouse, The 2,400 seat competition gym with goals in place and the floor being laid,
lights installed and early construction of the four lighted tennis courts, the three-court Fieldhouse gym with goals in place and floor being
laid, the competition pool.
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DEVELOPMENT
2006 Fantasy Auction: Fun and Fellowship
A record crowd of over 500 Strake Jesuit supporters gathered at the beautiful Sugar Land Town Square Marriott on April
women’s retreat, a Hawaiian luau, a father/son poker party, and
the Ultimate Scavenger Hunt.
22 for the 26th Annual Fantasy Auction, Beneath the Tuscan
This wonderful evening would not have been as successful
Sun. All who attended will agree that the evening was a
as it was without the dedicated efforts of this year’s auction
resounding success! Along with the “old” auction favorites, such
chairs Lou and Charlie Braun, Strake Jesuit auction coordinator
as the tour of the San Antonio missions with the Nevles, dinner
Sharon Venables, and many, many hard working volunteers.
with the Jesuits, and the coaches’ crawfish boil, there were
The real beneficiaries of the evening were the students who will
many new and unique items up for bid this year. Among the
be able to attend Strake Jesuit through the school’s financial aid
new highlighted items were a skydiving adventure with Fr.
program.
Lahart, a dream vacation to Tuscany, and a breath taking dia-
But the fun really doesn’t stop. Next year’s chairs, Michele
mond and emerald cross necklace all brought spirited bidding to
and John Dearborn, are already signing up committee chairs for
the live auction. Other big hits over the course of the evening
the 27th Annual Fantasy Auction on April 21, 2007.
were the Sign-up Parties. These included such events as a
ABOVE: Chairs Charlie and Lou Braun and Fr. Daniel
Lahart prepare to enjoy a successful evening.
RIGHT TOP: Richard and Nancy Nevle help Auctioneer
Monte Sneed prime the crowd for bids on their San
Antonio Missions Tour
RIGHT BOTTOM: Members of the Jesuit Community are
on hand for the bidding of a dinner in the Community
House.
Terry Crane Foundation Funds Endowment
The Terry Crane Foundation, founded to honor the
memory of Terry Crane '90, recently presented a check
for $150,000 to fund the Terry Crane Scholarship
Endowment at Strake Jesuit. Terry Crane '90 went on to
graduate from SMU in 1994 and was General Manager
of the Lubbock, Texas operations of Republic Waste
Services when he died in November 2001 in a tragic
accident. The main fund-raiser for the foundation is the
Terry Crane Foundation Memorial Golf Tournament held
in Houston each fall.
Left to right: Mark Gannon '88, Akexia
Gannon, Courtney Chisholm, Kelley Chisholm '97, Fr. Daniel Lahart, Trey Moeller
'89, Brian Merchant '89, NJ Santarcangelo '67, Vinny Pilegge '91, and Nick Raia.
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DEVELOPMENT
30th Annual Scramble is Biggest, Best Ever
On May 15, 2006 the 30th Annual Strake Jesuit Scramble,
which benefits Strake Jesuit athletics, was held at Sugar Creek
Country Club. By any measure, the 2006 version of the event
was a record setter. Almost 170 players were in attendance
which was easily a tournament record as the previous high had
been just over 100.
Under the direction of Tournament Chairman Mark Sacra
'74, the organizing committee did a fabulous job of soliciting both
players as well as sponsors. Among the major sponsors was
Resources Global Professionals, which sponsored the shirts
given to each participant. Silver sponsors included Employee
Benefit Solutions, Inc., Grey Wolf Drilling Company, Northstar
Interests, L.C., The Hartford Insurance Company - Group
Benefits Division, Millennium Midstream Energy, DistribAire, Inc.,
Wapiti Energy, LLC, and Production Access, Inc.
This year’s winners were the team of Scott Harrington, Andy
McConn, Mark McConn, and Mark Sacra ‘03 for First Place Low
Gross and the team of Frank Santos, Daniel Reininger, David
Reininger, and Michael Vallejo for First Place Low Net.
The tournament’s success was also due in large part to the
numerous volunteers. Their tireless efforts both in the weeks and
months leading up to the tournament as well as the day of the
event are greatly appreciated.
All golfers in the Strake Jesuit community are invited to
watch future issues of The Chronicle, the school web site, and
their mail boxes for information about next year’s event. Mark
your calendars now for Monday, May 14, 2007!
Third Annual Tournament Benefits
Koch Endowment
The third Annual Jack Koch Memorial Golf Tournament
was held on Friday, May 12 at the Country Place Country Club
in Pearland, Texas. The yearly event benefits the Jack Koch
Memorial Scholarship Fund at Jesuit. Jack Koch was the father
of five Strake Jesuit graduates and each year a host of family
and friends get together honor him and benefit the financial aid
program at Jesuit.
Left to right: Rocquee Johnson, Tricia Koch, Mark Koch '73, Ashley
Johnson, Nancy Johnson, Nancy Koch, Jim Koch '84, Katie Koch, Mike
Koch '75, Steve Koch '76, Jack Johnson, and Tim Koch '82.
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Around graduation there is always a great deal of talk
among Seniors about being together for the last time. Indeed,
after the seniors have graduated and the underclassmen finish
their finals a few days later, our campus which is usually crowded with life, vigorous, kinetic and toward the end of the year,
nearly frantic, becomes very quiet. Like a city park in winter,
save for the regulars who have no place else to go, the campus
is all but deserted.
It's true that the class no longer gathers as a class, but it is
a lesson to me and a tribute to our way of doing things, that so
many of them do stay connected long past even their college
years. Part of the binding force that holds men together long
after they have graduated is, I think, a consequence of their
having shared the experience of growing from boys into men.
The change is a quantum change, a great transition from fragile
tentative boys into confident and decisive men can only be
explained to a man's way of thinking as the result of heroic
action–the past of most men, as we tell it, is the stuff of legends
and sagas. Like Faulkner's observation of human kind–we do
not just endure we prevail.
The experience of going to school at Strake Jesuit
enhances the legends men build of their own lives; the place
does demand a lot. From the arrival on campus that first day,
the burden of the academic load falls on a boy's shoulders and
he bears it into the manhood of his final year of Jesuit. Beyond
the class room boys find challenges in some of the regions' most
competitive teams– from Football to Debate. They work, sweat
and they pray together often; they celebrate and mourn, cheer
and complain, and sometimes just hang out, and all of their
experiences are burned deeply into their memories where they
cannot but grow in scale, meaning and enjoyment.
About a month before graduation I had the opportunity to
ride the MS 150 from Houston to Austin. I had ridden the "OneFifty" several times before going all the way back to 1988, but
for all kinds of reasons I had fallen out of
the habit by the mid-nineties. I was anxious about my comeback and declined
all offers to ride with a team or even a
partner. I knew that I would have to keep
my own pace and there were few, if any,
I believed during my training who had
the patience to do that.
By the time the ride started I found
that I was in better shape than I realized
and I also found that it was impossible to
travel along the Houston-Austin axis
without encountering nearly forty-years
of former students, current students,
their moms and dads and business
associates as I rode. There was somewhere in excess of 12,000 people on
the ride, but the number of people I encountered who were
Jesuit-connected seemed to be disproportionately large. Some
of them I encountered as they were passing me; they would
slow down and we would talk for a while and then get back to
our own pace. Most frequently I ran into them at rest stops
where we searched out shade and a place to sit that had back
support. Sometimes we met waiting in the water-line and both
days of the ride I ran into some of them at lunch. The young
alumni were taller than when I had taught them, the older ones
thicker; the hairlines and waistlines followed a dynamic geometry all their own. Current students were just surprised to see me
there.
Alumni encounters usually followed the same pattern; surprised greetings, and then a question like, "Did you see so and
so? He passed me about thirty minutes back." (In high school
a generation spans a little more than seven years from the seniors you knew as a freshmen to the freshmen you knew as a
senior.) Brothers and even sisters can lengthen the line of connectivity and later social and business relationships expand the
linkage even farther. It doesn't matter that you never knew one
another at school. The school from its buildings to its program,
the teachers, both those still on campus or those who have
gone, create an entire culture. It is ironic that our word "nation"
came from medieval universities where a nation referred to
what modern universities would call a residential colleges–these
"nations" were communities or parts of neighborhoods where
students from a particular part of the world shared housing,
meals and a basic social life–a sort of 13th century Strake
Jesuit.
Combine these two ingredients: the powerful past condensed in a man's memory of his growing out of boyhood and
the shared experience of a demanding school, its strong community and you have the stuff out of which cultures are made
and from which legends grow. In those weeks before graduation the boys who have become men
have no idea how far they will scatter,
how much they will continue to grow
and, somehow remain close to one
another. For some it is the command:
"Go to the board, Mr. Jones"; for others
it is a field goal that meant a first victory
after years of defeat and for some it is
the consolation of a prayer or the support of a friend; they may scatter from
this place, but they are seldom very far
away.
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SCHOOL NEWS
Fleming Teacher Excellence Awards
The Annual Fleming Awards for Teacher
Excellence, which are made possible by a grant from
the Fleming Foundation, were awarded at the annual Awards Day at Strake Jesuit on May 2, 2006. This
year’s recipients are Robert Horn and Elizabeth
Jamerlan.
The awards, named for Dr. George Fleming who
was a teacher early in his life and whose son, Scott,
graduated from Jesuit in 1969, are presented to two
Jesuit teachers for teaching excellence and for their
demonstration of cura personalis. One award is presented to a faculty member who has been at Jesuit
less than 15 years, this year that being Mrs. Jamerlan.
The other award goes to a teacher who has been at
the school for more than 15 years, this year that being
From left to right: George Fleming,
Elizabeth Jamerlan, Robert Horn, Scott Fleming '69, and Fr. Daniel Lahart.
Mr. Horn.
Mr. Horn commented of being presented the award,
“I am very grateful for this recognition. It is gratifying to
Jesuit has a created a fund to support faculty excellence in the
be a part of a school where one's efforts are recognized and
classroom. The fund presents grants to teachers for continuing
appreciated.”
education and other opportunities to improve and grow in class-
Also though the generosity of the Fleming Endowment,
room excellence.
Student Organization Efforts Help Keep
School’s Arts Program Alive
The Strake Jesuit Society of Fine
arts
are
so
Arts Appreciation (SOFAA) got a firsthand
important and
look at what being Men for Others is all
the students
about on Thursday, March 23, 2006.
love the pro-
Working in conjunction with the Houston
g r a m s .
Independent School District, SOFAA used
Following the
proceeds from their Multi-Media Arts
check pres-
Festival to assist a nearby elementary
entation, stu-
school keep their fine arts program alive.
d e n t s
Micah Stroup, President of SOFAA,
demonstrat-
and other members of the group visited
ed what they
Piney Point Elementary and presented
have
their donation to a very grateful group of
working on
students and school administrators. The
in the after
donation was, in many ways, a life-saver
school program including a display of
for the school's arts program.
murals, a square dancing demonstration
been
Piney Point Principal Bobbie Swaby
and the viewing of a student TV program.
said, "We are very excited to receive this
With the help of Stake Jesuit, the students
valuable assistance for our after school
will be able to experience and develop a
Fine Arts Program from Strake Jesuit. The
love for the arts."
18 Summer 2006
Strake Jesuit SOFAA members John Paul
Cashiola (left) and Micah Stroup (second
from left) present their donation to members of the fine arts program at Piney
Point Elementary as school Principal
Bobbie Swaby (right) looks on.
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ATHLETICS
Jesuit Shines on Diamond
The Strake Jesuit Tennis team enjoyed another successful
The Varsity baseball
season, losing only one team match all season while several
team completed a successful
players garnered individual accolades for their outstanding play.
2006 season, going 15-11
Senior Ricky Ardila won two Singles Tournaments, the
overall and a 4th place finish
Beachcomber Classic and the Katy ISD tournament. Junior
in District 19-5A with a 10-6
David Heckler won the tournament in Pearland and then teamed
record. The Crusaders post-
up with junior Tucker Shields to win the Beachcomber Classic
ed a .350 team batting aver-
Doubles Consolation championship. Freshman Dan Morris was
age and 3.12 team ERA, but
crowned District 19-5A Singles champion after going undefeated
many individual accomplish-
in the Spring tournament.
ments and awards made
athletics
Netters Post Big Wins
“We were a disciplined and improved team this year,”
the season that much more
observed head coach Chuck Kenny. “I believe we are ready for
Dallas Jesuit, the first
successful.
Senior Andrew Reinhardt earned
Nine Crusaders earned
a host of post-season honors for
recognition.
his performance on the field as all-district
Junior
Beau
Faulk
earned
well as in the classroom.
first team honors at first
time in six years that the
base along with sophomore Jeff McVaney, who was among the
team has managed a win
area batting average leaders all year long. He was also named
in that annual match and
to the sophomore Sun Belt team for Texas. Second team honors
a trip to Miami to face
were awarded to seniors Sean Hilbe and Andrew Reinhardt.
Belen Jesuit.
Each also earned a spot on the Houston Area Baseball Coaches
the challenges that await us in District 17-5A next year.”
Two major highlights were a win over
Coach Kenny and
Association Southwest All-Star team. Also earning second team
the rest of the team
was junior Thomas McVaney. Honorable mention honors went to
members are especially
seniors Michael Elmer, and Nick Peterson, as well as juniors
looking forward to next
John Stell and David Waters.
year when they can
Academic honors were also in abundance as several play-
practice and play on
ers were named to the Academic All-District team including sen-
their own courts on
iors PC Lauinger, David Lazzeri, and Andrew Reinhardt, and jun-
campus as a part of
iors Alex Cernoch, Beau Faulk, John Stell, and David Waters.
the
Andrew Reinhardt also became the first Strake Jesuit athlete to
new
Athletic Freshman Dan Morris earned the
District 19-5A Singles title in the
Spring.
Center Complex.
be recognized as one of only four finalists for the Houston
Athletic Committee's Scholar-Athlete award in their respective
sport.
Senior Claims first Track & Field Title
The track and field team finished
Casar was later invited to run for the
another successful year in 2006. Senior
South team in the Congress Street Mile
Joe Strawder won the Triple Jump at the
and placed 4th on the south team during
District Meet to become the first track and
the race.
field District Champion in school history.
The track teams looks forward to
He joined junior Zach Jannasch, who
competing in the new district 17-5A next
placed 3rd in the discus, in advancing to
spring.
regionals. Junior Greg Casar placed 2nd
in the 1600 meters at the district meet to
also advance to regionals. He placed 4th
at the regional meet but did not qualify for
state.
Senior Joe Strawder, right, earned the
first District Track & Field title in
school history by winning the Triple
Jump at the district meet.
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ATHLETICS
Lacrosse Team Contends, Individuals Grab Honors
The 2006 Strake Jesuit Lacrosse
athletics
season was a success as the team
A
host of Jesuit players
received post-season recogni-
returned to playoff contention. Led by
tion including McLean and
team
Cashiola,
Daniel York, who were both
Parker Holcomb, Ryan Keel, and Jimmy
voted all-district. Cashiola and
McLean, the Crusaders took 5th place in
Holcomb both were voted all-
South District of the Texas High School
state and Holcomb came in 2nd
Lacrosse League.
place in the voting for Academic
captains
John-Paul
Jesuit's season was highlighted by
All-American.
big wins over Division II champ Cy Fair, as
Despite the loss of some
well as league wins over Lamar and
key seniors, Jesuit will look to
Kingwood. The Crusaders also stormed
return a young and talented team
back from an 8 goal deficit to play to a
in 2007, including 6 returning
narrow 10-8 defeat from city finalist
starters.
Parker Holcomb (#21) and John Paul Cashiola (#1)
were each team captains in 2006 and each also were
recognized with several post-season honors.
Episcopal.
Golfers Go Back-to-Back
as District Champs
Soccer Team’s Late Run
Falls Just Short
The Crusaders golf team cap-
The varsity soccer team finished the 2006 season one point
tured the 2006 District 19-5A title for
from a District 19-5A playoff spot. The Crusaders ended the cam-
the second year in a row. In addi-
paign in fourth place, with a record of 11 wins, 5 losses, and 4
tion, the Crusaders managed to add
ties. The team finished with a flurry by going 6 - 0 - 1 in their last
the individual district title as sopho-
seven games. But the streak came up just short, and Cinco
more Garrett Velarde walked await
Ranch edged out the Crusaders for the final
with that award.
playoff spot.
The district tournament was
Seniors Peter Graham
one of four that Jesuit won in 2006
and Jonathan Moore led the
as they also added titles at Deer
Crusaders all season long.
Park, Conroe, and Katy/Cinco
Both players were selected
Ranch. They also had three sec-
to the District 19-5A
ond place finishes at The Woodlands, Sophomore Garret Velarde
added the Individual
Cypress Fairbanks, and Katy Taylor
District title to the
events.
Crusaders' team title in
Five members of the squad 2006.
District 1st Team. Meanwhile,
claimed All-District honors. Among
District 2nd Team selection.
them were seniors Chance Pipitone and Will Thorseth, sopho-
All-
senior Ricardo Sutherland
led the team in scoring and
was a District 19-5A AllThe team returns varsity
group of young golfers returning next year, the Crusaders will be
Senior Peter Graham served
Pereira, as team captain and was a
William
Fuentes,
Danny first team 19-5A All-District
Garcia-Prats, and Todd Miller. selection.
aiming high next year under the direction of head coach Larry
Miller was also a District 19-5A
Finke. They will be looking for a third straight district title and a
All-District 1st Team selection as a goalkeeper.
mores Ben Thorseth and Velarde, and freshman Nicko Dodd.
With back-to-back district titles to grow on and a strong
veterans
Geraldo
chance to advance through the regional tournament and earn a
berth at the state tournament.
20 Summer 2006
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SPIRITUALITY
spirituality
How do I pray at work?
by. Fr. Flavio Bravo, SJ
This year, during our faculty and staff annual retreat, we contemplated the ways in which we approach prayer and work in our daily
lives. We were blessed to find that, even when our daily routine seemed tedious, we find ourselves practicing what Ignatius of Loyola
called us to be, contemplatives in action. We know that we cannot do our work and mission alone. In prayer, we come to know our
interdependence--our need to trust that Strake Jesuit is indeed one of God's great works. The following is a reflection from a staff
member offered at this retreat. We thank Mrs. Nancy Nevle for allowing us to print her poetry and reflections.
How do I pray at work?
My Job: Entering attendance and discipline data
for the Dean of Students Office. Checking students in and out of school. Attending Students
who become sick during the school day
Other secretarial duties defined by the Dean of
Students.
Where is the prayer in this?
It is, I think, in the listening, which I do a lot of,
and in the dispatching or connecting, of which I
do a lot.
It goes a little like this.......
"Someone stole my wallet and my pants during
Soccer PE yesterday" connect with Mr. Crowley.
"My locker's jammed, and I locked the keys in
my car and my motor's running" connect with Br.
Casey.
"Where do I go with this green counseling slip"
connect w/ counselor of record.
"I have to find Mr. Kornegay, or his mail box or
his office and can you verify that I had this paper ready at exactly 3:15?" connect w/Mr. Kornegay.
"My son is out sick today, he is so upset because today is the day
of baseball tryouts and he is missing them, and that is all he has
been thinking and dreaming about for 14 years" connect with Mr.
Wallis... " Oh, and we should probably get some assignments as
well." connect with Mrs. Sullivan or teacher e-mail.
"I need a transcript" connect with Mrs. Llorens.
dent who is struggling to keep up in math, a boy
who is being singled out, picked on, a family
financial crisis. I listen and with their cooperation
I simply connect these students and parents to
you - their administrators, their counselors, their
teachers, coaches. And that connection is another prayer of mine, a prayer of trust that you will
know what to do to assist these parents and students and that you will do it to the best of your
ability. And you do, you do this day after day,
week after week, year after year, you help parents and you help students, you teach them, you
tutor them, coach them, discipline them, patch
them up, pat them on the back, read them the
riot act, pray with them, laugh and cry with them.
Connecting them to you is the easy part of my
prayer. You are my Body of Christ. Thank you.
Every school day, I sit behind a desk in the
Dean's Office, I input lots of data into the attendance and discipline records, I check students in
and out of campus, and I answer lots of phone
calls and hear many questions.
I'm not always good at it, it can be easy, it is
often very hard. I think my prayer at work is in
the listening because sometimes a young man just wants a
Tylenol, and sometimes his heart is broken.
Poetry and nature also call me into prayer, so I share with you
one of my prayers, written some years ago, on a Sunday walk
through the Houston Arboretum.
This is the day when fishes flew
Birds swam
Spiders spun lightening
Leaves clacked like bones.
"I need a schedule change" connect with Mr. Roman.
"How do I get financial aid, where do I take this check for the
drive. I need to turn in senior service hours... The roof's leaking
in my class room, Who is on cafeteria duty today????"
"I'm throwing up" connect with Mom/Dad, any available parental
unit.
All of these needs are fairly simple to hear and easy to dispatch.
But sometimes, not always and not often, but sometimes while
listening to parents and students either on the telephone or in the
office I am made to hear a nuance of pain, anger, confusion. And
if I continue to listen, I might be told of the recent death of a
beloved family member, a son who is going through a deep
depression, an upcoming divorce, a parent with a terminal disease, a young man who has yet to find his place at school, a stu-
This is the day when minnows bumped the surface of ponds
Circles formed circles danced
Turtles looked like lily pads
Crawled on logs
Praised the sun
This is the day when crows cawed blue
Children sat quietly
Midges mated at middle C
This is the day when trees wore silver, lace shadows, pearls
Pine needle tinsel, oak leaf, vine
Body turned bread
Blood wine
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alumni news
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ALUMNI NEWS
Gray Miller '67 Named to Federal Bench
by Vince Santos '83
On April 25th of this year, the United
States Senate unanimously confirmed
Gray Miller '67 for a position on the
Federal bench. President George W.
Bush formally appointed the Jesuit alum
to this distinguished honor, where he will
now serve as a U.S. District court judge
for the Southern district, which is based in
Houston and covers 43 counties. Gray
Miller is regarded as one of the world's
leading maritime lawyers, and has spent
the past 28 years working at Houston's
own Fullbright & Jaworski International
Law Firm, becoming a partner with the
Top: Judge Miller is sworn in as a Federal
Judge.
Bottom: Judge Miller with his wife,
Joanne, and two grandchildren, Emmelene
and Elizabeth.
firm in 1984.
As he begins this next chapter of his
life, Judge Miller fondly looks back on his
days at Jesuit. "My Jesuit education
taught me the value of critical thinking and
hard work." he said. "I would never have
they were able to form with a particular
and me, he also baptized both of our chil-
been appointed as a United States District
priest or faculty member. Judge Miller is
dren. He will give the invocation at my for-
Judge without that basic grounding and
no different. "Fr. Bill Kidwell taught me
mal investiture in June and is flying in
the example set by the Jesuit priests and
chemistry during my junior year," he
from Miami to do it. Fr. Kidwell is the per-
scholastics who taught us in those early
recalled. "His optimism and enthusiasm
fect example of a Man for Others."
years."
never flagged in those years and has
So, indeed, is Gray Miller.
Many alums can reflect on their days
stayed strong over these last 38 years. Fr.
on campus and detail a special bond that
Kidwell not only married my wife Joanne
22 Summer 2006
2006 Grads Join
Dads in Ranks of
Jesuit Alumni
A dozen members of the Class of 2006, by virtue of their
graduation, joined their fathers as Strake Jesuit alumni.
Pictured here at Baccalaureate Mass are: (top row, left to
right) Sam '72 and John Paul Cashiola, Michael '72 and
Michael McAfee, Gerard '72 and Phillip Sterbenz, James
'74 and Jimmy McLean, Mark '74 and Steve Sacra, Mark
'79 and Chris Dini, J.R. '66 and William Henderson,
Timothy '74 and Kevin Squyres, Sean '76 and Brendan
McPartland, Butch '79 and Will Callegari, and Jay '73 and
John DeBroeck. Not pictured are David '79 and Michael
Hebert.
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alumni news
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ALUMNI NEWS
National Champ Alums
Visit Washington, D.C.
Reunion Weekend 2006
Fast Approaching
Reunion Weekend 2006 is just around the corner and the
excitement and anticipation are building. Scheduled for Friday
and Saturday, August 25 and 26, the weekend will be full of activities for everyone from the classes of 1966, which will be celebrating their 40th Reunion, '71, '76, '81, '86, '91, '96, and 2001.
The weekend will begin on Friday afternoon, August 25 with
an All Reunion Class Golf Outing at Wildcat Golf Course. The
Steve Hogan '03 and Chris Ogbonnaya '04, members of the
University of Texas National Champion football team, take
a moment out of their hectic schedule while in Washington,
D.C. to grant a request from a fan for a picture with the
Champs.
course, which is the official course of all of Houston's professional sports teams, is located just south of Reliant Stadium and
provides unique views of downtown and the Houston skyline.
That evening, the President's Reception will officially kick-off
Reunion activities. School president Fr. Daniel Lahart will host a
gathering in the foyer of the Parsley Center with plenty of time to
reminisce with old classmates as well as Jesuit faculty and staff
members.
Then, on Saturday, August 26 activities will start with SJ Day
n
f
i
Class of '06 Takes
First Step as Alumni
on the school campus. The fun begins at 2 PM with refreshments
and tours of the campus as well as the Art Museum. It will be a
great way to see how much the trees have grown and how new
buildings have been added. Then, at 3 PM, Fr. Chris Billac, SJ
will celebrate Mass in the Parsley Center. The SJ Day activities
At Baccalaureate Mass on Saturday, May 20, the Class of
2006 presented the school with its Senior Class Gift. Now an
are open to all Reunion Weekend class members as well as their
entire families, including parents.
annual tradition at Strake Jesuit, the Class of 2006 is the fifth
Saturday night has been reserved for individual class par-
class to participate. The program provides an opportunity for the
ties. These events will be hosted at some of the best restaurants
graduates to make the transformation to Alumni, and to leave a
and night spots in Houston including Maggiano's Little Italy,
parting gift to the school.
Vincent's, Molina's, and the Hard Rock Cafe.
This year, the Class of 2006 elected to allocate their gift to
Reunion class members are encouraged to watch their mail
the purchase of banners recognizing past district and state
boxes for invitations and reservation information. All activities
championships (TCIL & UIL) for both athletic and academic com-
and reservations can also be done online at the school's web site
petition teams.
www.strakejesuit.org by clicking on 'Alumni'. Reunion year alums
In the last part of their process, the representatives solicited
will also be encouraged to go online and provide a brief update
their classmates for a pledge to the class gift. The gift is then paid
on what they have been doing since their Jesuit days and a spe-
off over the next four years and counts as their contribution to the
cial Reunion booklet will be available on Friday night at the
Annual Alumni Drive.
President's Reception for each alumnus in attendance.
The Class of 2006 is very pleased to announce to the
So mark your calendars, save those dates and watch your
greater Strake Jesuit Alumni Association their Senior Class Gift
mail box, both real and in your e-mail, for more information about
total of $16,300 with 70% of the Class of 2006 making pledges.
Reunion Weekend 2006!
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When you
Sponsor a
student,
your gift
comes with
a face
and
a name.
Whether you have been a longtime
contributor to Strake Jesuit, or you have just been
waiting for the right opportunity to get involved,
consider sponsoring a financial aid student.
As a Sponsor, you will be able to meet the student and
watch him grow throughout his Jesuit experience.
It is a very personal and rewarding way to reach out to
a deserving young man and impact his life
in a meaningful way.
For more information, contact NJ Santarcangelo '67 in
the Development Office at 713.490.8152.
24 Summer 2006
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Page 25
class notes
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CLASS NOTES
Pat O’Malley ‘76 and
his wife, Pat, daughter,
Arlene, son, Patrick.
James H. Lee '84 was appoint-
ed by Texas Governor Rick Perry
to serve as a member of the
Teachers Retirement System of
the Texas Board of Trustees.
Arlene, will attend the University of
Missouri this fall. Their son,
Patrick, will be a senior in high
school this fall.
John Windlinger ‘71 and his
‘60’’s
s
‘60
Don Feehan '67 and his wife,
Donna reside in a suburb of San
Francisco, California. Their children, Matt and Deb, are grown. He
is a Financial Analyst with Chevron
and Donna is an Administrative
Analyst with a local city government.
Douglas Foster ‘69 is practicing
law in Albuquerque, New Mexico
with Foster & Rieder, P.C. His son,
Brian, is an attorney with Jones
Day in New York and his daughter
is an occupational therapist at a
rehab hospital in Chicago.
‘70‘7’0s’s
Fr. Luke “Bob” Uhl ‘70 is the
Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox
Metrpolis of Denver. Two of his four
sons are on active duty. He and his
wife, Ruth, led a tour to Greece last
November, following in the footsteps of Saint Paul.
wife, Maura, have spent the last 24
years in Northbrook, Illinois. Their
son, Tyler, graduated from Loyola
Academy and he will attend the
University of Texas. Their daughter,
Tracy, will work at Laity Lodge in
Leakey, Texas this summer. The
family enjoys frequent trips to their
ranch in Kerrville, Texas.
Robert Leeds ‘72 had a play he
wrote open off-Broadway in March.
Due to its success and a request
from a possible backer, it will be
remounted either this fall or next
spring in Manhattan.
Luke R. Bucci '74 celebrated
his 50th birthday with a business
trip to Korea looking for new products
for
Schiff
Nutrition
International, where he has been
Vice President of Research for 10
plus years. He lives in Reno,
Nevada with wife Naniece and
French Bulldogs.
Brett
Broussard
‘76
is
President and Owner of Broussard
Group Office Furniture and
Services in San Antonio. He is married to the former Debbie Christ
(SAA ‘75).
Pat O’Malley ‘76
is Vice
President of Sales for Browne &
Co. in St. Louis. He and his wife,
Pat, celebrated their 20th anniversary in May. Their daughter,
David Almauger ‘77 is Senior
Captain with the Houston FIre
Department. He has over 23 years
with the HDFD as a firefighter and
is a licensed paramedic.
Capt. Kevin Taylor ‘77 is
Commander Mid-Atlantic Regional
Maintenance Center conducting
maintenance and modernization of
the Atlantic Fleet ships and submarines. He and his wife, Peggy,
and daughter, Amy, live in Norfolk,
Virginia.
James Richard ‘79, his wife
Laura, and their daughter Katie
greeted the birth of twins Trey and
Maggie on May 18. James recently
won his third term as a judge in
Fort Bend County.
Paul Schniedau ‘79 has been
wife, Grace, live in Houston where
he is an attorney with Zimmerman,
Axelrad, Meyer, Stern & Wise, P.C.
He has published several articles
on Texas law and was recognized
in 2005 by Texas Monthly and
Texas & Politics Magazine as a
“Texas Rising Star.”
Lamy Chopin '87 and his wife,
Wendy, had third child, Logan, in
September of 2005. They are currently living in New Jersey.
Joe Hancock ‘87 and his wife,
Michelle, welcomed the arrival of
their newly adopted daughter,
Emilia Faye. She joins their other
children Will, Matt and Emmi.
Stephen Tse ‘87 received his
tenure at Rutgers University. He is
an Associate Professor in the
Department of Mechanical and
Aerospace Engineering, specializing in the thermal sciences. He
lives in Edison, New Jersey with
his wife, Lorraine, and their son,
Dominic.
with Fulbright & Jaworski’s client
relations department for five years.
He and his wife, Karin, have two
daughters, Kristina and Emma.
Bo Bothe '88 earned an MBA
‘80’’ss
‘80
from Rice University and is
President
and
Co-Creative
Director of BrandExtract, a brand
development firm in Houston. He
and his wife, Heather, welcomed
the birth of daughter Hannah in
April, 2006.
Ben Walter ‘80 and his wife,
John Lomax '88 was promoted
Cathy, and their daughters Isabel
and Iris live in Portland, Maine
where he is vice president of CWS
Architects.
Louis Martincheck '83 lives in
Riverside, California and is a
Neonatologist at Riverside County
Hospital
James Richard’s '79 new
twins Trey and Maggie.
Nelson Ebaugh ‘87 and his
Stephen Tse’s '87 wife, Lorraine,
and their son, Dominic.
to executive music director of
Village Voice Media. In addition to
his duties as Music Editor for the
Houston Press, he has oversight
of 16 other music sections including those of the Village Voice, SF
Weekly, Miami New Times and LA
Weekly.
Joe Hancock’s '87 children
Will, Matt, newly adopted
Emilia Faye, and Emmi
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CLASS NOTES
Warren von Eschenbach '89
class notes
recently graduated from The
University of Texas with a PhD in
Philosophy.
90’’ss
‘9‘0
Thomas Bradley ‘90 graduated
from Texas A&M in 1994 with a
BBA in Finance and Accounting
and then earned a Masters in
Science Finance in 1997.
Ron Luster '92 and Tammy
Prukop were married on March 11,
2006, in Corpus Christi and honeymooned in Italy. In attendance at
the wedding were Mark Reed
'92, Vinny Pilegge '91, Dave
Vrana '92, David Rasch '92,
and Brian Merchant '89. While
in Rome, they were also able to
spend time with Fr. Joseph Carola,
SJ '80 Ron and Tammy live in
Houston where he is an Employee
Benefits Broker for HRH Insurance
and Tammy is a Recruiter at Texas
Children's Hospital.
Andy Paradise '92 lives in
Houston with his wife, Kitee, and
their two sons, Aidan and Ethan.
He is a senior developer with the
Rome Corporation.
Doug Doyle '93 welcomed the
arrival of son Dillon in January,
2006.
Stephen Fraga ‘93 and his wife,
Michelle, were married on April 29,
2006 at St, Michael Catholic
Church in Houston. The wedding
was presided over by Fr. Brian
Zinnamon and the groomsmen
included Ken Bales ‘93, Chris
Powell ‘93, P.J. Hennessey ‘93,
Dillon Doyle, son of Doug ‘93
26 Summer 2006
Kevin Dartt ‘93, and Tim Collins
‘93. He is President of Tejas Office
Products and Michelle is an
Assistant County Attorney.
He has been married to his wife,
Stephanie, for three years and she
is a teacher in Virginia Beach.
Pedro Correa ‘98 spent four
Eddie George '94 and his family moved to Austin in May, 2005.
He and his wife are expecting the
birth of their second child in
September, 2006.
Jim Bilnoski '95 started a new
job in June with Honeywell. He and
his wife, Cat, live in Ellicott,
Colorado.
Seth Wallis '95 lives in Austin
with his wife, the former Sarah
Skowronek (SAA '94) and their
son, Benjamin. He earned his MBA
from the University of Texas in
2003.
Karl Reuter ‘96 is currently commanding a military police company
at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina and is
preparing for deployment to Iraq
this fall. He and his wife, Jessica,
were married in June, 2005.
Paul Merkel '97 is a PC specialist with Union Tank Car. He and his
wife, Carina, are building a house
which should be finished by the
end of June.
Josh Saner '97 recently was
engaged to Jennifer Gronauer
(SAA '97) in the Napa Valley.
Kevin Stone ‘97 graduated from
LSU in 2005 with a BS in
Petroleum Engineering. He works
for Precision Energy Services in
Rosenberg, Texas as a field engineer.
years traveling throughout Latin
America and Europe as a
Consultant at the management firm
of Bain & Company. He is heading to
Boston to pursue his MBA at
Harvard Business School.
Doug Goff '98 graduated from the
University of Texas in 2002 with a
BBA in Finance. He then served in
the Peace Corps in Osh, Kyrgyzstan
until 2004. In February he was
engaged to Courtney Kenworthy of
Houston and they have a Carribean
wedding planned for 2007.
Dave Zerda '98 will deploy to Iraq
July for seven months as Lieutenant
Junior Grade in the US Navy. He will
be flying helicopters to resupply
Army troops.
Adam Ciarella ‘99 married the
former Shelly English on April 22 in
Atlanta, Georgia. The Groomsmen
included Peter Stuhdreher ‘99 and
Stuart Sisler ‘99. They currently live
in Anchorage, Alaska where Adam is
flying F-15C at Elmendorf Air Force
Base.
Mark Szafran '99 and his wife,
Alex, welcomed the birth of son
Jacob in May, 2006.
‘0‘000’’ss
Matt Chladek '00 graduated
Sean Tanoos '97 has been living in Berkeley, California and
serving as a lecturer at San Jose
State University. This fall he will
begin work on his doctorate at
Florida State University.
Magna Cum Laude from the
University of St. Thomas in May,
2005 with a degree in English. He
accepted a one year contract at a
Japanese school in Osaka, Japan.
Daniel Skarbek '00 relocated to
Austin, Texas after his house was
destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. He
is working for 9-time Grammy
Award winners Asleep at the
Wheel as Production Coordinator.
He also recently released his first
CD with his band Broken Smokes.
Peder Mainguy '01 graduated
with honors from the University of
California - Berkeley and has since
moved back to Houston and is
working with McDade, Smith,
Gould, Johnston, Mason and
Company.
Dunn Estacio '02 graduated
with honors Magna Cum Laude
from the University of Houston's
downtown campus with a degree in
Psychology and a minor in
Marketing.
Eric Friedlander '02 graduated
from American University with a BS
in Audio Technology and is a sound
engineer for Maryland Sound
International in Baltimore.
Chris Glaser ‘02 graduated
Magna Cum Laude from Texas
A&M in May with a BS in Electrical
Engineering. He began working for
Ratheon in Dallas in June.
Rodrigo Interiano '02 graduated from the University of Texas
with a degree in Human Biology.
He will be attending UT
Southwestern Medical School in
Dallas.
Steve Hogan ‘03 is engaged to
Mary Tschoepe in May, 2006.
Jack Hornberger '03 was
named MVP of the George
Washington Men's Water Polo
Team for 2005-06 as well as All
Conference for the Collegiate
Water Polo Association and named
as and Academic All-American.
Brett
Cochrane '98 is a
Lieutenant Junior Grade in the
Navy serving on the USS Iwo Jima.
Ron Luster '92 and his wife Tammy visited
with Fr. Joey Carola, SJ '80 while on their
honeymoon in Rome.
Steve Hogan '03 and his
fiance Mary Tschoepe
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12:25 PM
Page 27
BIRTHS
Dillon Doyle on January 9, 2006
Doug '93 and Jennifer
Jacob Szafran on May 2, 2006
Mark '99 and Alex
Mary Francis Wilhelm April 30, 2006
Philip '94 and Kathryn
Katy Richard on May 18, 2006
James '79 and Laura
IN MEMORIAM
Jose Arana
Father of Francisco '02 and Uncle of Oscar Rivera '08
Genevieve Baras Bailey
Mother of Brad '71, Tim '75 and Grandmother of
Addison '04
Barbara Berardi
Wife of John '80
Jorge Jose Bravo
Father of Federico '74 and Milhko '78 and Grandfather
of Brian '99, Milhko '00, and Nicholas '02
Barbara Schafer Cash
Wife of Lee '67
Margaret Hilery
Grandmother of Sean Steininger '08
Louis Kramr
Father of John '81 and Grandfather of Aaron '08
William Kuessow
Grandfather of Brad '06 and Matt '08 Brill
Jose Felix Miranda
Father of John '80
Patrick Morgan
Grandfather of Keegan Tooley '03
Donita Watts Morrison
Mother of James '65 and Robert '67
Rose Ferlita
Mother of Brother Casey Ferlita, SJ
Hansen Hall Steele
Father of John '67 and and Patrick '74
Louise Gardes Friedman
Mother of Thomas '69 and Grandmother of Jason '93
August N. Swain
Father of Michael '72
Louise P. Garcia
Grandmother of Tony '94, David '95, Chris '98, Joe '99,
Matt '00, Mark '03, and Tommy '05 Garcia-Prats
David Eugene Harvey
Father of Jerome '69, David, Jr. '72 and Grandfather of
David III '97 and Christopher '00
Patricia Ann Townsell
Mother of Michael '77
Jeff Tritter
Father of Andrew '06
Fr. Brian Zinnamon, SJ
President of Strake Jesuit 1990-2000
So what have you been up to?
?????
Tell us where you are, where you've been and what's been
going on in your life since your days at Jesuit. We'll bring all
your school friends up to date in the Class Notes pages.
Send us an e-mail at [email protected] or log onto the
Alumni Online Community at www.strakejesuit.org under the
Alumni link.
The Chronicle 27
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6/14/2006
12:25 PM
Page 28
A Talk with the Jesuits
athletics
It's a sunny afternoon in South Louisiana. The azaleas are
in full bloom heralding springtime in Grand Coteau. Indeed it is a
fine day for a visit and a chat with the men that I so admire.
Just north of Lafayette and only a mile or two off the busy
Acadiana Thruway, Grand Coteau is nonetheless a rustic and
quiet respite; a place well suited for reflection and renewal. The
grounds are lovely this time of year. Grand old oaks shade the
main building and lend an air of peacefulness to the surroundings. Behind the main building is a quaint little wood frame
church and next to it is the cemetery and final resting place of so
many of my heroes. The deceased Jesuits are buried here and
they are the reason for my visit.
I come out of respect, true enough. But I must confess that
I have other motives. I hope that you will not think me selfish but
I come for their guidance. In truth, I still need their wisdom and
direction. I miss these Jesuits and I long to hear their words
again.
In my youth they guided, nurtured and tutored me. It was all
so simple then. There was right and there was wrong. I was
expected to do the right thing and if I strayed, they were there to
point me in the right direction. They led by example and they
expected only the best from me. Now, so many years later, I
must admit that I still strive to live up to their expectations.
Admittedly, I am still a work in progress and every day I struggle
to be more like them. Standing in this cemetery today, I must be
honest with myself. In my heart I know that I may never measure
up. I take solace in the fact that despite my failings, I am quite
sure that I am nonetheless a far better person than I might have
become without their influence. It is small consolation, but it is
enough.
And so it is that today I come to remember, to chat, to confess, and to ask for help.
Father Mulvihill, you were a quiet, mild mannered gentle
soul. Help me to be more humble and less assertive. I remember
that you were a kind person and helped so many through their
difficult times. Help me to show empathy to others.
Father Coles, you were a tough little guy with a big heart.
You had certain, single-minded determination and were driven to
achieve. Tough and determined; yes you were. But you once
gave me a chance, even though I did not deserve one. Thank
you for that. I try to do the same whenever I have the opportunity. Help me to remember to lend a helping hand to someone who
needs it. Help me also to be driven to achievement.
Father Alchediak, what a fine figure of a man you were. "Big
Mike," that's the way I like to remember you. I shall never forget
your friendly smile, firm handshake and positive ‘can do’ attitude.
You played a major role in saving this school when times were
bad. Help me to remain positive. Help me to recognize my own
potential. Help me to be a friend to all.
Father Baker, I remember that your last days were difficult
ones. Help me to remember how strong you were in the face of
the overwhelming adversity of poor health. I promise to be grateful for the good life that God has given me. I will not dwell in the
negative. I will face problems like a man and I will either overcome them or, if necessary, suffer them with my head held high.
Father Toye, thank for your ministry. You taught a lot of
young men. Rest assured that they understood your dedication
and the sacrifices that you made on their behalf. You meant a lot
to all of them and they remember you fondly. Help me, if only in
my own small way, to show these young men that they are all
very important. I am neither a parent nor a faculty member. I am
just someone who cares about them just as you did.
Father Thompson, how much you are missed. You were the
ultimate confidant and counselor. Your door was always open to
any young man in need of advice. Yes, I know that you are now
with the others and all of you are with the Lord. And I am quite
sure that's what you want me to realize. After all is said and
done, that is the final goal. Yes, I will try to live up to His expectations. It is difficult for me, but I do better everyday. Tell the
Jesuits that I still need their prayers.
Father Zinnamon, thank you for bringing an appreciation of
our cultural heritage to the Strake Jesuit campus. By your efforts,
we have come to understand that throughout history, mankind
has used the arts to illustrate the beauty of this mortal life that
God has gifted to us. I shall always remember your personal zest
for life. You understood that life is precious and meant to be lived
to the fullest. Help me to do the same.
To the memory of all my beloved Jesuits, I pledge to my
shield and my sword.
George
28 Summer 2006
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
July
August
14
Summer School Ends
3
Used Book Turn-in
4
Used Book Sale
7
New Teacher Orientation
8-10 Faculty Orientation
11
Mothers' Club Welcome Brunch
11-12 New Student Orientation
14
Matriculation day
15
Jesuit Vow Day
16
Classes Begin
18
Orientation Dance
Green & White Game
23
Follow Your Son's Schedule
25-26 Reunion Weekend
September
Mass of the Holy Spirit
1
Strake Jesuit vs. St. Thomas
Big Brother/Little Brother Breakfast
8
24
Alumom Mass & Brunch
For up to date event information,
go to www.strakejesuit.org
Ionic Column, from Old Sante Fe State Capital, 19th Century
American measures 204 x 30 x 30 inches and is composed
of limestone. It is on loan from Frank Ribelin and is located
between the Parsley Center and the Hamilton Building.
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6/14/2006
10:52 AM
Page 1
Coming in the fall issue...
The Unveiling of the new
Athletic Center Complex!
PARENTS, if you are still receiving your
son’s Chronicle although he no longer
lives with you, let us know so we can
change our records and send the magazine directly to him. If you enjoy reading
the publication but do not receive a copy
of your own, let us know that too. We
would be glad to send a copy to your
son’s new address and continue to send
you one.
Contact the Alumni Office at
[email protected] or at
713.490.8153
Strake Jesuit College Preparatory
8900 Bellaire Blvd.
Houston, TX 77036
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Houston, TX
Permit No. 11441

The Gospel of JB

Transcription

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