mpscapades - Mercyhurst Preparatory School

A publication for the Mercyhurst Prep community
mpscapades
1-8Alumni/school news
9 Upcoming reunions
11 MPSGrand
10-21Alumni notes/photos
22-25Alumni Spotlights
Half million dollar donation makes iPads
for all students & faculty a reality!
Mercyhurst Prep announced in
February a major education and
technology initiative made possible
by a generous donation from an MPS
alumna as a legacy to her parents who
always held Mercyhurst Prep close to
their hearts.
Betsy Hirt Vorsheck ’73 and husband
Bill Vorsheck are incredible people who
are carrying on a legacy of generosity
and caring for others. When offered
the opportunity to positively impact
the lives of current and future MPS
students, the Vorshecks knew they
wanted to help. Their $500,000 donation this year
in memory of Betsy’s parents Bill
and Audrey Sitter Hirt ’45 turns
Mercyhurst Prep’s vision for its
students into reality. That vision
includes a paradigm shift in the
way students learn, integrating the
latest methodology and technology
to prepare them with the skills and
knowledge required to be successful
in academic and business ventures in
a 21st century, global society, while
keeping true to the Mercy charism.* Betsy’s late mother was a 1945
Mercyhurst Seminary graduate who
taught business classes at Mercyhurst
Prep in the early 70s. Betsy and her
husband, himself a former educator,
believe that “Mrs. Hirt” would have
loved the idea of this initiative. MPS president, Sr. Mary Ann Bader,
stated, “This substantial donation will
enable us to initiate a one-to-one
deployment of iPads to every student
and faculty member at Mercyhurst Prep
beginning with the 2012-2013 school
year with intensive training planned
for the faculty beginning this coming
June. It will also provide for the
hiring of at least two additional staff
members. Once again, MPS strives
toward, reaches and exceeds a cuttingedge educational initiative.”
Principal, Deborah Laughlin, said,
“Our desire in creating this initiative
was to ensure that Mercyhurst Prep
continued to offer the most relevant,
challenging, and enriching curriculum
possible for our students. As digital
natives who will be required to have a
high comfort level with 21st century
skills, our students need to have a
learning framework in which stateof-the-art technology is carefully
aligned with current best educational
practices. And, to be true to the
charism of Mercy in which each student
is valued, we needed an approach
that would help us differentiate
our instruction so that all students
would be intellectually respected and
challenged. After a great deal of study,
we determined that the iPad with its
wide variety of apps would best help
us meet these goals.”
The fact that this donation comes in
one lump sum means that MPS is able
to roll out the initiative all at once,
rather than phasing it in over the
course of several years. Rather than
borrowing the iPads, the students
will be able to take the technology
with them when they graduate. This is especially important when
you consider that more than half of
the student body is here with the
assistance of scholarships/financial aid. President Sr. Mary Ann Bader announced
The Bill and Audry Hirt Education and
Technology Initiative at a recent news
conference. Sharon Hiegel, treasurer,
Ed Curtin, assistant principal, Dan Perfetto,
athletic director and Kathryn Donovan,
IB coordinator, were among some of
the spectators.
“Financial support from alumni and
other MPS supporters for scholarships
and aid is even more critical than ever
in order to ensure that the advantages
of a Mercyhurst Prep education are
available to all deserving students,”
says advancement director Lisa
Nietupski. “We will also be setting up
an endowment fund so that with the
incentive of the Vorsheck’s generosity,
the initiative can be sustained for future
MPS students.”
*Mercy charism – Compassionate
presence, justice, service, hospitality and
concern for the dignity of all persons are the
core values which make up the Sisters
of Mercy charism.
Volume 32, Number 1
Winter 2012
2
Dear friend of MPS,
Residents in Erie from November to January could be heard to say, “Can you believe it?
Just a fraction of the snow we usually get! When have we ever had a winter like this?”
While we know that this may be a winter to remember for those snow-free months outside, at
the same time, inside Mercyhurst Prep students and teachers continued to make us proud. The
talent, incredible effort and hard work of our students manifested itself in countless ways: from our
award-winning literary and art magazine, Chrysalis, written, published and distributed by students,
to our outstanding performing arts department holding its auditions for its Spring musical, The
Wizard of Oz, to our numerous Region, District and State champion athletic teams. Mercyhurst
Prep is truly Marked by Pride and Spirit.
In addition to the numerous student achievements this year, our latest initiative, which has
been in the planning stages for two years, came to fruition thanks to the generous hearts of
Betsy and Bill Vorsheck. On February 7, when the exciting announcement was made that we
had received a generous donation providing iPads next Fall for teachers and our entire student
body, the atmosphere was electric. To be true to our Mission Statement which says that we “…
strive for excellence in academic programs,” we are proud to provide the very best in technology for
our students! With this state-of-the-art equipment in their hands, MPS teachers will make that
paradigm shift: taking a major step forward in our approach to 21st century education by using
them as tools for a differentiated instructional approach honoring the intelligence and abilities
of individual students. This is truly a memorable time for MPS.
In closing, please remember that you are always welcome at Mercyhurst Prep. May God continue
to bless each of you and your families for your faithfulness to and support of MPS.
Sincerely,
Sister Mary Ann Bader, RSM
President
3
Alumni honored
Erie Planning Commission, the
Saint Vincent Health System Board
of Corporators, and the Office of
Children and Youth Advisory Board.
She also taught part- time
at Mercyhurst University.
Judge Kelly served as a member
of the Pennsylvania Judicial Ethics
Committee from 2001 through 2003
and as Administrative Judge of the
Erie County Common Pleas Court’s
Family Division from 2001 until 2005.
In 2003, Judge Kelly was appointed by
then-Governor Rendell to the Juvenile
Court Judges Commission. She was
reappointed in 2006 and again in 2009.
She continues to serve as a member of
the Commission at this time.
L to r: Kelly Anne Witchcoff, Charlie Witchcoff, Ellie Hill ’13, Joe Kelly, Bill Kelly, Kim Kelly Hill ’76,
Elizabeth “Libby” Kelly ’76, Jack Kelly, Anne Kelly Schenkel ’75, Chris Schenkel,
Mary Grace Kelly, Barb Kelly and Patrick Kelly.
The Mercyhurst Preparatory School
Alumni Board of Governors held its
Third Annual Alumni Recognition
Dinner, “Traditions in Excellence,” on
September 24th at the school and
recognized many outstanding alumni.
The Honorable Elizabeth ‘Libby’
Kelly ’76 received the Distinguished
Alumni Career Award for her success
during her career as an attorney and
judge in Erie County while being
generous in support of the school.
Libby attended Wellesley College
and then transferred to Georgetown
University, graduating with a Bachelor
of Arts degree cum laude in 1980. She
received her Juris Doctorate in 1983
from the University of Akron where
she served on the Editorial Board of
the Akron Law Review and was elected
Vice-President of the Student Bar
Association.
She spent a year working in the Akron
City Prosecutor’s Office before moving
back to Erie and becoming associated
with Elderkin, Martin, Kelly & Messina,
P.C., in which her father was a founding
member. She was made a partner in
the firm and practiced there, primarily
in the area of family law, until 1999
when she was elected to a ten-year
term on the Court of Common Pleas of
Erie County, only the second woman in
Erie County elected to that position.
Prior to her election, she contributed
her time and talents to a number
of organizations including the
Mercyhurst Prep Board of Trustees, the
Northwestern Pennsylvania Humane
Society Board of Directors, the City of
A publication for the Mercyhurst Prep community
In 2005, Judge Kelly was elected by
her fellow judges to the position
of President Judge of the Court of
Common Pleas of Erie County, the first
female Erie County judge elected to
that five-year post and only the second
female common pleas court judge in
Pennsylvania to earn that distinction.
In 2009, she was retained for another
ten-year term on the Erie County
bench, receiving the highest retention
percentage of all judges retained in
Pennsylvania in 2009.
In addition to her judicial duties, Judge
Kelly keeps busy as a single mother
to a very special daughter. She is also
“mom” to two rescue Newfoundland
dogs and a rescue cat. She is a
frequent competitor in various athletic
events, including swimming, biking
and running. She is deservedly proud
mpscapades
Mercyhurst Preparatory School 538 East Grandview Blvd., Erie, PA 16504-2697
(814) 824-2067 [email protected]
Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcia Izbicki Gensheimer ’71
Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marcia Izbicki Gensheimer, Jessica Horan-Kunco ’89
Contributing Writers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pat Genung ’67, Dan Perfetto ’92
Graphic Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michele Marini
MPScapades is published two times a year for the Mercyhurst Prep community.
We welcome your articles, suggestions and comments. Please direct your
correspondence to its editor, Marcia Izbicki Gensheimer.
4
to include in her accomplishments the
completion of the Ironman Wisconsin
competition in September 2006,
including a 2.4-mile open water swim,
a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile
run, all in the pouring rain!
Asked how her Mercyhurst Prep
education and experience affected
her life, Judge Kelly responded,
“Surrounded by bright, supportive,
open-minded young women (and
a few men), MPS was the perfect
springboard to a life of service to my
clients, my community, and my family.”
Arthur “Art” Martone ’80 (right), Performing
Arts chair at Mercyhurst Prep, is pictured
here with his wife Diane. He received the
Distinguished Alumni Award for service.
When asked how his Mercyhurst Prep
education and experience affected his
life, Art Martone replied, “In the fall of
my sophomore year, September 1977,
I was whisked into the choir room by
Mary Esther Becker, made to sing a
quick song then told I was to have a
new schedule in homeroom the next
day and that I was now in Chorus
Class. I’ve been part of that choir ever
since!”And so began Art’s lifelong
journey on a path of music, music
education, and service.
Arthur Martone graduated from
Mercyhurst Prep in 1980. He received
his Bachelor of Music degree from
the D’Angelo School of Music at
Mercyhurst University in 1984. After
teaching at Saint Peter Cathedral
Center for four years, he returned to
MPS in 1988 and has been a dedicated
member of the faculty since that time.
He is a Member of the Pennsylvania
Music Educators Association and
currently serves as the chair of the
MPS Performing Arts Department.
His teaching duties include Concert
Choir, Show Choir, Musical Production,
Technical Theatre, Music Appreciation,
Beginning and Advanced Piano, and
Beginning Guitar. His classroom duties
extend to the Social Studies and World
Language departments where he
teaches classes on the Civil War, World
War II, and Italian.
Art served as Music Director for the
1996 MPS International Thespian
Society (ITS) production of Nunsense,
which was performed not only at
MPS but also in Lincoln, Nebraska. In
2002, he served as Music Director for
the first production of Les Miserables
ever performed in Northwest
Pennsylvania. He also was the Music
Director for Little Mary Sunshine in
2005, at MPS and at the Fringe Festival
in Edinburgh, Scotland. Last year he
served as Stage Director for the first
Northwest Pennsylvania production
of The Phantom of the Opera while also
displaying his operatic talents in a
supporting role in that production.
In 2005, Art received the MPS
Outstanding Faculty Award. In 2009,
he received the WJET-TV/Edinboro
University Golden Apple Award. In
their essay nominating Art, MPS
students Emily Higgins and Emily
Olszewski wrote, “Mr. Martone always
has so much on his plate, but never
does he even hint that he’s stressed
out because of it. He’s always smiling
and is always there for any student
who needs somebody to talk to, even
if he doesn’t happen to teach that
student. If you ask him for help, you
automatically know he’s going to be
there with you every step of the way.”
Art’s service extends beyond the
walls of MPS and into the Erie
area performing arts community.
He has been a stage director and
performing member of the Erie
Opera Theatre since 1983. He has
shared his talents with the Erie
Playhouse since 1986 in various roles
including music director, conductor,
and performer, and with the Erie
Chamber Orchestra as its assistant
conductor. He previously served as
assistant musical director and head
cantor at Saint Peter Cathedral and
as music director and conductor
for the Erie Parks and Recreation
Department, the Erie Diocesan
Summer Musicals, and the Titusville
Summer Theatre. In addition, he has
performed the National Anthem
at numerous professional sporting
events and has been a soloist with
the Erie Chamber Orchestra and the
Erie Philharmonic.
The Sisters of Mercy received the
President’s Award, presented to
individuals chosen by the Alumni
Association President for their
longtime dedication and unfailing
support to the school, its faculty, and
its students.
The anniversaries of the 1986 Girls
State Basketball Championship,
1991 Girls & Boys State Basketball
Championship, and Kelly Ervin’s
1986 Individual Girls Tennis State
Championship were also celebrated
at the Awards Dinner. These tributes
recognize exceptional achievement
above and beyond the norm
and are awarded no earlier than
the 20th anniversary of the state
championships.
Congratulations
to our
outstanding
Alumni!
5
Pictured here is former basketball coach
Bill Bengel (far left) and some members
of the 1986 teams. (l to r): Lisa Maxson
Beery ‘86, Sue Heidt Koonmen ‘86 and
Kelly Erven Maslar ‘87
Sisters who attended the Alumni Recognition Dinner included (seated) Sr. Natalie Rossi,
Sr. Donna Marie Orton ’49, Sr. Maura Smith (former Mercyhurst Prep principal),
Sr. Bernadette Bell, Sr. Mary Mark McCarthy, and Sr. Mary Matthew Baltus; (back)
Sr. Mary Dolores Jablonski, Sr. Lisa Mary McCartney, Sr. Rita Panciera,
Sr. Maria O’Connor, Sr. Domenica DeLeo, Sr. Joan Sherry, Sr. Jeanne Thomas Danahy,
Sr. Phyllis Marie McDonald, Sr. Mary Ann Bader (current Mercyhurst Prep president),
Sr. Patricia Whalen ’59, Sr. Rita Brocke, Sr. JoAnne Courneen (former Mercyhurst Prep
president), Sr. Trish Tyler, Sr. Michele Marie Schroeck, Sr. Audrey Clauss,
Sr. Edith Langiotti, Sr. Mary Felice Duska ’52, Sr. Joan McCabe ’51 and
Sr. Catherine Edward Delaney. Missing from photo was Sr. Teresa Okonski,
current MPS Campus Ministry director.
Coaches and some team members of the
1991 championship team included (l to r):
Mark Sokoloff, Ron Swanson ’91,
Brian Dahlkemper ’91, Jack Ziacik,
Khyl Horton ’92, Dan Rosenburg, and
Greg Majchrzak ’77.
NOTE:
This year’s Alumni Recognition
Dinner was the largest to date.
You have an opportunity to
nominate candidates for the 2012
Distinguished Alumni Award for
career or service, the President’s
Award, the Mercy Award and the
new Young Alumni Award.
Some boys and girls championship players included (l to r): Ron Swanson ’91,
Jena DiBello ’91, Brian Dahlkemper ’91, Amber Gonser Lutterbaug ’92,
Khyl Horton ’92, Danielle Baginski ’91, Teresa Szumigala ’91 and
Denise Baginski Sonneborn ’91.
Go to www.mpslakers.
com/alumni and fill out the
nomination form or email a copy
to [email protected]
or mail to the MPS Alumni Office,
538 East Grandview Blvd., Erie,
PA 16504.
6
From the desk of Alumni President, Pat Genung
On Saturday, September 24th, more
than 150 alumni, family and friends
gathered at MPS for our annual
Alumni Recognition Dinner in
honor of our 2011 Distinguished
Alumni Award winners, Hon.
Elizabeth “Libby” Kelly ’76 and Mr.
Art Martone ’80; our President’s
Award winner, the Sisters of Mercy;
and the members of the 1986
State Champion girls basketball
team, the 1991 girls and boys
State Champion basketball teams;
and Kelly Ervin Maslar ’87, 1986
individual girls tennis State
Pat Genung
Champion on their 20 and 25-year
anniversaries. Calamari’s Restaurant, owned by Jay Honard ’86, catered the
event. Everyone had a great time! Alumni Art Show
Great Success
Forty plus artists participated in the
Alumni Art Show at the 1020 Holland
Street Galley and displayed over 120
works of art, drawings, paintings,
sculptures, photos and installation
pieces. All of the feedback was
positive and it was certainly one of
the more interesting exhibitions in
Erie this year. Dr. Jamie Borowicz,
visual arts department chair,
coordinated this event.
We need your nominations for 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award
recipients. Go to www.mpslakers.com/alumni and fill out the nomination
form or email a copy to [email protected] or mail your
nominations to the MPS Alumni Office, 538 East Grandview Blvd., Erie,
PA 16504.
Julie Wingerter Lieberman, class of 1988, was the 1987 Gymnastics
State Champion, and will be recognized at our 2012 dinner on the 25th
anniversary of her championship title.
Come join us on Saturday, March 31st, for A Night at the MPS Grand! This
Las Vegas style event features casino games, basket raffles, silent auction
items, and this year, LIVE entertainment! Come see your favorite alumni
and other local talent as they entertain you with music, magic, and
comedy routines. Sample the food, wine and other beverages and play
some games of chance. All proceeds go to scholarships.
Michael Haas ’10 is updating the Alumni Tab on the MPS website
www.mpslakers.com. When that project is finished, he will begin work on
updating our alumni website. We’ll have more details on that in our
Spring MPScapades.
,Basketball Clinics
,Term Electives
,SAT Prep
,Summer Educational Experience
for Kids, (SEEK)
, Drivers education class
, Math clinic for Middle School
and Junior High
, High school and middle school remediation
Donations to MPS can all be made online. Just go to www.mpslakers.
com and click on Donate. Follow the prompts. Nothing could be easier!
In May we will present the Class of 2012 with their alumni tee-shirts and
welcome them into the alumni family.
We look forward to seeing all the alumnae who graduated in or before 1962
at the Golden Anniversary Luncheon on Friday, August 17th at The Erie
Yacht Club.
www.mpslakers.com
P: 814-824-2062 or
E: [email protected]
for more information
Main line: 814-824-2210
7
Black Friday Bash
Our annual Black Friday Bash is always a huge success with many alumni, some celebrating landmark reunions, and some
just having good times with friends! The food is always delicious at Calamari’s, thanks to alumnus Jay Honard and Marci
Honard and their wonderful staff, especially alumnae Renee Brown (Calamari’s) and our own Jessica Horan-Kunco (MPS),
who help to coordinate the event.
Class of 2006 celebrating their 5th reunion at the Black Friday Bash.
Alumni from various decades always enjoy the Black Friday Bash. Mark your calendar for the next one in 2012 on Friday, November 23rd
at Calamari’s.
8
Graduates return to
Mercyhurst to receive
IB diplomas
Even though the IB students received
a Mercyhurst Prep diploma last May,
they returned to their Alma Mater on
Thursday, December 22 to participate
in a second commencement, the
issue of the prestigious International
Baccalaureate World Diploma.
Diploma candidates take the
International Baccalaureate exams in
May and they are scored by examiners
all over the world. This process is
lengthy so the diploma is given at
a later date. These students met
2011 IB Diploma recipients include (back): Mike Yurkovic, Samantha Fugagli, and
Eddie Baxter; (front): Jenna Bekeny, Christine Haverly, Julia Bensur, Caryn Sennett,
rigorous demands of the International
and Nora Pertz. Missing from photo was Zofia Stark.
Baccalaureate requirements at MPS,
the only International Baccalaureate
Bensur is a history major at Cornell
World School in northwest Pennsylvania:
University and her study was titled
Jenna Bekeny, Nora Pertz, Christine
According to varying historical
Haverly, Eddie Baxter, Samantha
perspectives, which aspects of Queen
Fugagli, Mike Yurkovic, Caryn Sennett,
Hatshepsut’s reign and rise to the throne
Julia Bensur and Zofia Stark.
were most pivotal in Tuthmosis III’s
The IB Diploma Program is a
campaign to erase her from
challenging two-year curriculum that
Egyptian history?
is widely recognized by the world’s
Jenna Bekeny and Julia Bensur were
Stark, a history major at Villanova
leading universities. IB candidates
co-valedictorians of the 2011 graduating class.
University, wrote her essay titled
must successfully complete an
To what extent were the Nazi leaders
interdisciplinary course, Theory of
is the implementation of human rights
successful in using propaganda to
Knowledge, which explores specific
principles feasible given the practical
indoctrinate German youth with the
areas of knowledge that involve
difficulties associated with the quandary
party ideals and beliefs?
language, reason, emotion and
of child labor in the carpet industry in
perception; write an extended 4,000
Pakistan?
Yurkovic is a dual mathematics and
word essay on a topic of individual
business major at the University of
Pertz, a psychology major at Vanderbilt
interest; and complete a Creativity,
Rochester. His essay was titled An
University researched How Clear are
Action, Service (CAS) component that
Exploration into the Axiom Status of
the Mirrors? The Mirror Neuron Theory
delves into the arts, sports and
Euclid’s Fifth Postulate and Why it Cannot
of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
a community service project.
be Validated or Invalidated. He stated,
“I must admit that I am extremely glad
Baxter
is
a
history
major
Kenyon
College,
Recipients of the IB diploma are
that I decided to pursue the IB Diploma
and
his
work
was
titled
The
Role
of
the
superbly prepared for college course
for a number of reasons. The rigor of the
Kingdom
of
Jerusalem
in
Causing
the
work and can earn up to 30 college
diploma program has prepared me so
Third
Crusade.
credits. Studies show that students
well for college, especially the workload,
from IB high schools consistently attain
Fugagli is attending Gannon University which is challenging at the University
higher GPAs and graduation rates in
also as a history major. She asked
of Rochester. The critical thinking and
selective colleges and universities.
What were the most significant factors
writing skills that I amassed in my four
influencing David Lloyd George to adopt
Bekeny is a chemistry major at the
years at MPS will serve me well in the
a compromising role at the Paris Peace
University of Chicago, and her paper
future and I know that IB was a good
was titled What is the effect of occluding Conference of 1920?
decision for my life.”
the surface area of inert pharmaceutical
Sennett is attending Dickinson College
The IB Diploma
carrier materials on their rate of heating?
and majoring in English literature. Her
presentation takes place
essay was titled An Investigative Literary annually at an all-school
Haverly currently attends Boston
Analysis of the Pragmatic Elements in the assembly.
College as a human rights major; she
submitted an essay titled To what extent Romance Novel Pride and Prejudice.
9
Celebrating
25 years
in Mercy
education
Catherine McAuley
entered the
novitiate on
September 8, 1830
and founded the
Sisters of Mercy on
December 12, 1831. For nearly
180 years her charism and tradition
have lived on and will live on into
the future. Beginning at the end
of the academic year 2010-2011
and throughout 2011-2012 Mercy
secondary and elementary schools
and education centers are using
the medal designed for the
180th anniversary year of the
founding of the Sisters of Mercy
to recognize veteran Mercy
educators who have demonstrated
outstanding commitment to the
works of Mercy.
Mercyhurst Prep recognized a number of teachers at the Sisters of Mercy Foundation Day
celebration held on December 15: (l to r back row): Mr. Frank Amicucci, Ms. Peg Aste,
Mr. Chuck Stachera, and Mr. Jamie Borowicz; (row three): Mrs. Kathy Donovan,
Mrs. Sue Rounsley, Sr. Mary Ann Bader; (row two): Mrs. Kathy Pirrello, Ms. Debbie
Servey; (row one front): Mrs. Debbie Laughlin, Ms. Carla Betti, Ms. Bridget Whalen
and Mrs. Maryanne Dombrowski. Missing from photo were Mr. Duane Dulin and
Mrs. Mary Anne Welsh.
Reunions 2012-2013
If your year of graduation ends in a “2” or a “7” this is an anniversary year for your class but any year could be a “reunion”
year! Class officers typically plan reunions, but anyone is encouraged to gather a group and plan a gathering. If you
have questions, please contact Marcia Gensheimer at [email protected] or call 814-824-2067.
Class of 1962 – 50th Reunion
Golden Anniversary Luncheon
Friday, August 17th
Mass at Motherhouse @ 11AM
Luncheon @ Erie Yacht Club
@ 12:15 PM
Class of 1967 – 45th Reunion
Saturday, August 4th
Kahkwa Club
drinks, hors d’oeuvres and dinner
(for classmates)
Sunday, August 5th
Attend Mass together if you choose,
and then we will have brunch at a
restaurant to be determined at a
later date as we are not able to make
reservations this far in advance for
those facilities. Spouses and family
members are welcome to attend
Mass and brunch on Sunday.
Contact Pat Genung,
[email protected] or
Carolyn Mango Kacprowicz,
[email protected].
Class of 1972 – 40th Reunion
Cynthia L. Crotty is looking for
classmates to plan a get-together
for the class of 1972. She can be
reached through Facebook,
email: [email protected]
or 440-991-7766.
10
The Golden Anniversary Luncheon
The Golden Anniversary Luncheon, an annual MPS tradition recognizing alumnae who graduated 50 years ago and more,
was held last August. Some who attended in 2011(l to r) included :
Class of 1948: Doris Carlin Shade,
Catherine Sandle Kraft and
Melanie Dombrowski Feretti
Class of 1952 (seated:) Sr. Mary Felice
Duska and the late Charlene Withers
Keinath (Charlene passed away on 9/12/11);
(standing): Joan Szymanski Mancuso,
Nola Weingard Lyons, Sally Schnatter
Schuster, Edith Alo Coccarelli, and
Nancy Meagher Genck
Class of 1957 (back): Carol Sosey Hanley,
Marilyn Heibel, and Denise Illig Robison;
(front): Katherine Heberlein Drzewiecki,
Sally Sontheimer DeDad, and
Janet Liebler Plavcan
Class of 1949: Jay Gould and Shirley
Seelinger Piotrowski
Some members of the classes of 1951 and ’61
who celebrated 60th and 50th anniversaries
included: Marilyn Reiser ’61, Annette
Straub Bailey ’51, Mary Ree Travers ’51
and Joan MacKenzie Eastman ‘51.
Class of 1955 (standing): Carol Veihdneffer
Drongosky and Mary Ellen Housman
Ferrick; (front): Theresa Jozefczyk
Cafazzo and Martha Wurst Hilbert
Class of 1956: Jeanne Wurst Kidder, Judi
Yochim Krahe and Barbara
Byrne Baumann
Classes of 1959 & ’60 (back): Jackie Weber
Johnson ’59, Ann Dwyer Vinca ’60;
(seated): Sr. Patricia Whalen ’59, Sheila
Martin Pierce ’59 and Marilyn Agresti
Renkes ’59
Graduates and Sisters of Mercy enjoyed the
luncheon (standing): Beth Huster Tomczak
’60, Pat Genung ’67, Sr. Natalie Rossi;
(seated) Jean Liebler Vickey ’60, Norma
Cesnick Ryen ’60 and Sr. Pierre Dembinski.
11
Spring Fundraiser Update
We hope that you will join us on March 31, 2012 for
“A Night at the MPS Grand” from 6:30 – 11:00 pm at MPS.
This year’s event will have a Las Vegas flair with great
food, games and entertainment. Must be 21 to enter.
At the MPS Grand you will be treated to a variety of rotating lounge acts including three of our
talented alumni, Anna Zoe Danko Rachocki, Chris Moore and Brandon Vogt.
‘Anna Zoe’ Danko Rachocki, ‘03, is an independent singer-songwriter
who has just released her debut album “Friction in Some Direction.” She
describes her music as a combination of Tori Amos having dinner with
Coldplay, and going for drinks with Death Cab for Cutie. Anna has shared the
stage with Chris Barron of the Spin Doctors and The Bacon Brothers. This year,
she has begun touring around the US and will be performing an acoustic
set for us at Casino Night.
Anna Zoe ‘03
Chris Moore, ‘05, is an acoustic guitarist and singer in the
band, Chasing Moira. Their musical flavor is influenced by
the Dave Matthews Band with a jazzy, soulful and sublime sound you are going
to have to see to believe. Chasing Moira released its first album “Something out
of Nowhere” in 2011 and is currently working on a second album with the recent
release of the single “Live for Today.” They opened for Pat Monahan and Train
this fall at the Tullio Arena and Kansas on the main stage at Celebrate Erie.
A Night at the MPS Grand wouldn’t be complete without a
visit from “Ol’ Blue Eyes.” We are pleased to announce that
Brandon Vogt, ‘06, will be performing songs from the Great
American Songbook. His repertoire includes songs composed
by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and George Gershwin and made
popular by such artists as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and
Nat “King” Cole.
Chris Moore ‘05
Anna and Chris will have their merchandise and albums available for purchase at the MPS Grand. Both have generously offered to donate 10% of any merchandise sales
that evening back to MPS.
Brandon Vogt ‘06
We look forward to welcoming you to the MPS Grand on March 31st for a night of great
entertainment and fun that supports our MPS Scholarship fund.
We’d like to thank our Spotlight Sponsor
12
The class of ’68 met to celebrate their 60th birthdays at
Calamari’s on July 1 and then at the Erie Yacht Club on July 2 for
dinner and dancing. They kindly invited the class of 1971, who
also celebrated at the Erie Yacht Club, to join in their dance party.
Attendees included Barb Braggins Bensur, Jane Bucceri,
Kathleen Dauer Hemme, Denise Dombrowski Gaines, Sue
Finnegan Parsio, Anne Bressan Francani, Kathleen Davitt
Jenkins, Susan Desser, Donna Ferretti Gela, Christine
Brugger Russell, Margaret Finegan, Deborah Magay
Thomas, Frances Mango-Thompson, Susan Morgan
(Friday night), Charlene Schaaf, CDP, Miggy Spoden Wayne,
Kathryn Willis McMaster, Georgeann Hulick-Kamholz,
Jeanne Musarra Behan, Mary Ann Shalkam Barbour, and
Anne Waldron Moore. The group had so much fun, they will
soon be planning for their 45th reunion in 2013.
The class of 1976 celebrated their 35th reunion on August 13th.
They will continue to keep the following Yahoo email account
open for any updates ([email protected]) and, of course,
any and all classmates are invited to contact Lynne Karle Wright
on Facebook.
l to r (front Row): Jessica Barbaro Bengel, Sue Lane Lester, Susan
Martone, Mary Niedzwiecki Scutella, Laura Dipre Luddy, Ann
Held Ciotoli; (second row): Ranee Travis Tozer, Carolyn Gold,
Lynne Karle Wright, Stacy Shimek, Mary Beth Tucker Rinderle,
Pam Wolf, Kimberly Kelly Hill; (back row): Elizabeth Kelly,
Mary Jane Barber Tanner, Kimberly Peterson Chapman, Chris
Konwinski Caskey, Glenn Chojnacki, Karen Tullio Sturm, James
Wilson, Mary Mehl Ebach and Dennis Riley
The class of 1971 celebrated their 40th reunion on July 1 with an
informal gathering at Calamari’s and dinner on July 2 at the Erie
Yacht Club.
Pictured here are (l to r back): Joanne Przybyszewski Kubinski,
Janet Przybyszewski Danielson, Maria Platis Conway, Anne
Strayer, Judy Dunson Spangler, Terri Gardner Fendya,
Cathy Orcutt Bryan, Evelyn Bogdanski DePalma, Mary
(Nell) Dailey Lennon, Lisa Renz, Jeanne Quinn Lillis, Peggy
Beresky Brabender; (middle): Mary Kraft Horvath, Adrianne
Rush, Barb Hewitt Weber and Cindi Pogorzelski Peters;
(front): Marcia Izbicki Gensheimer, Janice DiLuzio, Chantal
Minnaugh DeRose, and Denise Karle Parker.
The class of 1981 celebrating a 30th reunion The MPS class
of 1981 had their 30th reunion this summer on July 9 at
the Sloppy Duck Saloon at Juniors on the Bay with over 40
classmates attending the event.
easer! Two special surprise guests shared
T
in the gathering at Calamari’s and both guests were known
to the members of the class of 1968 and 1971.
Please see page 21 for the answers!
13
Class notes:
Big news, little moments or just a
friendly hello…we would like to
hear from you. If you send us the
birth notices, we will send your
baby a special MPS tee. Email
[email protected].
1940
s
Irene Mszanowski Ropski ’43 and
husband, Dr. Joe Ropski, recently
celebrated their 60th wedding
anniversary. Grandchildren, Meaghan,
’06, and Nathaniel, ’11 are both
Mercyhurst Prep graduates.
1960
s
Nancy Fagan Sarnowski ’69 and
husband Len opened Jitters Coffee
and Bake Shoppe on West Ridge Road
in Fairview, PA in June. Nancy retired
in June after teaching 35 years in the
Girard School District.
Monica Mauer Capabianco ’69
received Pasco County’s Elementary
Counselor of the Year award for 2011.
This was the second time Monica
received this high honor (1991 was
the first) from her peers of over
one hundred district elementary
counselors in her 30-year career. She
is employed at Gulfside Elementary
School in Florida.
1970
s
Mary Ann Mancini Wycech ’72
recently retired from the Pennsylvania
Department of Transportation after 36
plus years of service as a professional
purchaser. She plans to spend more
time with husband Gary and children
PJ, who is a senior at MPS, and
daughter Cara, a 2008 graduate, and
puppy Oscar. Travel plans are on the
docket as well.
Roselle Randazzo Walkiewicz ’73
and husband Stan have outgrown
the space in their successful Erie
jewelry store, “All that Glitters.” The
boutique celebrated a grand opening
in September in the Colony Plaza.
Roselle previously worked as a
probation officer and the manager of
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services.
Son Steve is a 2003 graduate and
daughter Terese is a 2004 graduate.
Laurie Root ’75 is vice-president of
major gifts and planned giving at the
United Way in Erie. She previously
lived and worked in the Washington,
DC area for 30 years in various
capacities. She worked in Seoul,
Korea as a management instructor
and TV writer for a couple of years,
returned to the DC area, and most
recently served as the vice president at
Women in Cable Telecommunications
in Fairfax, VA.
1980
s
Sal Clemente ’80, one of the 10
lead singers of The Ultrasonic Rock
Orchestra, played in Erie in June. The
giant rock band plays hits from Bowie,
Queen, the Beatles, the Who and
Zeppelin. You can follow their tours
at www.anatro.com.
Art Martone ’80 was asked to
conduct the tribute concert in honor
of Bruce Morton Wright in October.
He is the performing arts chair at MPS
and the assistant conductor of the
Erie Chamber Orchestra of Gannon
University, which Wright headed
for many years. His two sons, Philip
’12 and Christopher ’13, are current
students at MPS.
David J. Bidwell ’81 was recently
named the Regional Vice-President of
the Year for an unprecedented second
year in a row for John Hancock LTC.
David is Regional VP for the Sunshine
Region. He and his wife Debbie reside
in Heathrow, FL with their 2 sons,
Cooper and Talan.
Lev Kubiak ’84 is the director for the
National Intellectual Property Rights
Coordination Center (IPR Center) in
Arlington, VA.
Solitaire Miles ’85 recently released
a new CD, Melancholy Lullaby, which
features the work of many great
Chicago jazz legends, including a new
tune from swing violinists Johnny
Frigo and Joe Vito. You can preview
the new CD on www.cdbaby.com/cd/
solitairemiles2, on itunes, and Amazon.
com. Check out Solitaire’s website at
www.solitairemiles.com.
Valerie Koscelnik ’86 is on the staff of
Columbia University Mailman School
of Public Health in New York City. She
is the Senior Director of the AIDS Care
and Treatment programs for eleven
countries in Africa and maintains a
home in Philadelphia while traveling
to Africa regularly.
Jessica Horan-Kunco ’89 has joined
the staff of Mercyhurst Prep as the
coordinator of special events and
fundraisers. She is a 1993 graduate
of the University of Pittsburgh at
Johnstown and is currently pursuing
a master’s degree in organizational
leadership at Mercyhurst University.
Horan-Kunco served as president of
Erie City Council and filled the role
of councilmember since 2004. She is
also president of Erie Area Council of
Governments. She is the co-owner
of Kunco Landscape, Inc. and also
works part-time as an office assistant
and bookkeeper at Mercy Terrace
Apartments. She received the GECAC
Bradley Foulk Public Service award and
the Parade Street Community Center’s
Outstanding Commitment Award for
Community Service. She was honored
with the Young Erie Professionals,
Generation E Award in 2008 and
received the Women Making History
Award by Mercy Center for Women
the same year. Jessica previously
worked as program manager of the
Employment Opportunities Center
division of the Barber Institute from
1993 – 2003. She is married to Ronald
J. Kunco, Jr. and is the proud mother of
Jeremy, Adam and Rachel.
14
1990
s
Samantha Pagni Lees ’91 was
a semi-finalist in the Uncommon
Jewelry Design Challenge. You can
view her designs at http://www.
uncommongoods.com/voting/
product/53047/journal-leavesnecklace.
Todd Scalise ’91 is an artist and
graphic designer who recently moved
back to Erie. He is currently working on
a very ambitious project for the Erie
Art Museum called Higherglyphics. He
also does freelance graphic design
work for a number of businesses and
organizations in Erie including
Erie Reader.
Curtis Jones Jr. ’94 was recently
selected president of Erie City Council
for 2012. His son, Curtis Jones III, is a
sophomore at MPS.
Certified Financial Planner Professional
and Chartered Retirement Planning
Counselor, and the designation of
Accredited Wealth Management
Advisor. He resides in Avon Lake,
OH, with wife Amy and their two
daughters, Mariela and Nora.
Marina George ’95 married Brock
Allen on August 6th at the Sagamore
Resort on Lake George in Bolton
Landing, New York. She graduated
from Mercyhurst University with
a BS in human ecology and is
a clinical dietitian in long-term
care. Her husband is a graduate of
Pennsylvania State University with a
BS in plastics engineering. The couple
honeymooned in Greece and reside
in Erie.
Ed Razanauskas ’94 has been
appointed senior consultant at FTI
Consulting in Pittsburgh where he is
a database developer for the firm’s
Ringtail Software. He previously
was employed at GNC Corporate
Headquarters as a programmer/
analyst. Ed is an avid photographer
who recently sold a series of his
photos for use on the television
program Prime Suspect.
Adam Welsh ’94 is co-editor in chief of
the new Erie Reader, a creative tabloid
for news, arts and entertainment. You
can find free copies at numerous Erie
locations or visit www.eriereader.com
for more information.
Jeremy DiTullio ’95 has been
appointed a managing principal
of the Lincoln Financial Advisors
Corporation in Cleveland and Akron,
OH. He is responsible for growing the
market for Lincoln Financial Advisors
in this territory. Jeremy has worked
in the financial industry since 2000
and held the positions of financial
planner, field vice president, and
division manager. He was previously
employed by Ameriprise Financial,
Inc. and New England Financial. He
holds the professional certification of
Adam Leslie ’95 and family relocated
to Pittsburgh from southwest Virginia
and are enjoying the new location.
Adam ran into fellow alum Denise
Meredith ‘94 while making pie dough
at their children’s school.
The Butler newlyweds
Mr. and Mrs. Allen
Dr. Leah Batkiewicz ’97 married
Dr. Jason Butler on October 8, 2011
at St. Catherine of Siena Church
in Greenwich, CT with a reception
following at Riverside Yacht Club.
Leah earned a Ph.D. in genetics from
Columbia University Medical Center
in 2007. Her husband holds a Ph.D.
in biology from Imperial University,
London. Both Leah and Jason work
as biotech analysts in Manhattan and
reside on the Upper East Side with
their Westie, Fletcher.
E. Rita Camillo ’97 married Michael
Camardo in June in Brecksville,
OH. Lauren DiSantis ’97 served as
maid of honor. Rita earned a BS in
economics with minors in Spanish and
business from Penn State University.
Her husband received his bachelor’s
degree in accounting from Ohio
University. He is a wealth strategist
with Hawthorn PNC Family Wealth in
Pepper Pike, OH.
Denise Meredith volunteering with
Adam Leslie
15
Jacqueline Kozak ’98 married Mark
Thiel on July 9 in their adopted
home of Hawaii. Jackie’s mother
proudly served as matron of honor
at the wedding. Kozak’s parents, Dr.
David and MaryAnne Kozak hosted a
reception at Capers in Erie for friends
who could not make the trip to
Hawaii. Jackie is one of six East-West
fellows living at the University of
Hawaii and working with the state’s
first lady on the Hawaii Invasive
Species Council. Her husband is an
accomplished web master.
Friends of Jackie’s who attended the Erie
wedding celebration included, l to r (back):
Christine Lesh ’98, Megan Trambley ’98,
Janet Jaskiewicz Thompson ’93, Chris
Kozik ’98; (front) Emily Jaskiewicz DeLuca
’98, Jacqueline Kozak Thiel ’98, Julie
Koehler Kaufman ’98, and
Domenic DeLuca ’96
Sarah Warner ’98 married Brian
Rehrig on July 16, 2011. She is
a graduate of the University of
Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Medical
School. Sarah completed her medical
residency in Rochester, NY, where she
met her future husband. She is an
obstetrician at OB GYN Associates
of Erie.
Donna McCoy ’98 married Brian Pruzenski on May 15, 2010. She is pictured here
with her husband. Angie Matusiak Matts ’98 served as a bridesmaid and is fifth
from the left.
Stephanie Frankiewicz Lewis ’99
was recently elected to a 4-year
term as Lawrence Park Township
Commissioner. She is also the advisor
of the Lead ‘n Seed club at MPS.
Penn State Erie, The Behrend College,
Pennsylvania State University, University
Park Campus and at Texas A&M University.
The couple resides in Seven Fields, PA.
Emily Hartwig Wachter ’99 was
one of the nine young people who
received a Young Erie Professionals
2011 Generation E award. She is a
consultant at Decision Associates
and is the vice-president of fund
development for the Junior League
of Erie. Emily is coordinator for Erie
Athena PowerLink Group and director
of Erie County Court Appointed Special
Advocates for Children.
Christine Kleck ’99 married Greg Galket
on July 16, 2011 in Ocean City, MD, on
the beach at 145th Street. They hosted a
reception following the beach ceremony
at Fenwick Wine Cellars on Fenwick
Island, DE. The ceremony and reception
were all part of a beach destination
wedding weekend celebration that took
place from July 14-July 17, 2011. Both
Greg and Christine work for UPMC in
Pittsburgh, Christine in corporate human
resources and Greg in the insurance area
of the company. Greg is a 1995 graduate
of Norwin Area Senior High School in
North Huntingdon, PA and received
an undergraduate degree from the
University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.
Christine received undergraduate
and graduate degrees and completed
academic training and certifications from
Mr. and Mrs. Galket
Christine’s brothers Matt Kleck ’02 and Tim
Kleck ’05 brought her down the “sand” to
her husband.
16
2000
s
Beth Warner ’00 married Jon Altman on November 18. She graduated from
Ohio University in 2004 and the University of Pittsburgh Law School, where
she met her future husband. She is practicing law in Pittsburgh where the
couple resides.
James Razanauskas ‘01 recently
decided to leave the Navy after 10
years of service as a master of arms. He joined the naval reserves, is living
in Erie with his 6-year old son and
recently began courses at Mercyhurst
University using his military benefits.
Lieutenant Sarah Wheaton Kienholz
’01 graduated from Combat Systems
Officer school on September 23rd. She
will be stationed at Offutt Air Force
Base in Omaha, Nebraska and will
work as a navigator on the RC-135
reconnaissance planes.
The Stubenhofer wedding party included l to r: Bryan Sammons ’00, Jamie Stubenhofer
Breneman ’98, David Merski ’89, Mary Frick ’03, Michael Merski ’95, Ann Colonna
Fuhrman ’98, James Stubenhofer ’04, Susie Merski Stubenhofer ’98, Jason
Stubenhofer ’00, Lisa Merski Hudson ’92, David Hudson, Jennifer Haley Merski ’97,
John Denslinger ’00, Rhonda Becker Tobin ’97, Joseph Dworzanski ’00 and
April Sweeney.
Jason Stubenhofer ’00 married Susie Merski ’98 on September 11, 2010 at St.
Patrick Church with a reception at Lake Shore Country Club. Members of the
wedding party included Lisa Merski Hudson ’92, Jennifer Haley Merski ’97,
Jamie Stubenhofer Breneman ’98, Mary Frick ’03, April Sweeney, Rhonda
Becker Tobin ’97, Anna Colonna Sammons ’00, Joseph Dworzanski ’00, John
Denslinger ’00 and David Hudson. Jason graduated from Gannon University
with a BS in Management Information Systems and is a clinical analyst at UPMC
Hamot. Susie graduated from Gannon University with a BS in nursing and a
master’s in anesthesia. She is a nurse anesthetist working for North American
Partners in anesthesia at UPMC Hamot. Jason and Susie reside in Erie.
Bridal party and guests of the Howey/Giles
wedding included (l to r): Meghan
Howey, Emily Lubhan, Cora Howey Giles,
Jenny Maleski Smith, Nick Adams and
Rachel Prischak.
Cora Howey ’01 married Matt Giles
on October 29, 2011 in Brooklyn,
New York. The reception was held at
Bubby’s Restaurant, located between
the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges,
with a backdrop of the New York City
skyline. Meghan Howey ’96, sister
of the bride, served as the matron of
honor. Bridesmaids included Rachael
Prischak ’02 and Jenny Maleski
Smith’01. Guests also included Emily
Lubhan ’01 and Nick Adams ’01. Cora
is a graduate of Penn State University
and works as a sales executive at
Parade Magazine. Matt, a graduate of
St. Joseph’s University, is a writer for
New York Magazine and ESPN. The
couple honeymooned in Egypt and
currently reside in Brooklyn, NY.
Lieutenant Sarah Wheaton Kienholz
Jovan visited MPS recently to proudly show
us his Defensive Player of the Year trophy.
Jovon Johnson ’02 was the winner of
the CFL’s Most Outstanding Defensive
Player Award in 2011, becoming the
first defensive back to win the award
in league history. He is also a two time
CFL All-Star and three time CFL East
Division All-Star.
17
Lee Eighmy ’05 captured his fifth
Times News Open Championship in the
49th annual bowling open tournament
earning the $1,000 prize.
David Pfister ’05 plays rhythm guitar
for the Romantic Era band. The six
piece rock and roll group recently
released its first full-length CD.
Greg Stolar ’05 graduated in May from
Penn State Behrend’s Black School of
Business with a master’s in business.
He scored in the top 10 percent on the
Educational Testing Service Major Field
Test. Greg is employed as a materials
technical analyst at GE Transportation
in Lawrence Park, PA.
Erin Dworakowski ’02, Andrea Dworakowski ’02 with their mom, MPS receptionist and
attendance officer Paula Dworakowski
Andrea Dworakowski ’02 married David Wallis on October 22. Her uncle,
Paul Urbaniak, District Magistrate and member of the class of 1977, married
the couple. Erin Dworakowski ’02, sister of the bride, was maid of honor.
Cousin, Jennifer Thiemann ’99, was a bridesmaid. Andrea attended
St. Bonaventure University and works as a customer service associate
for PNC Bank in Youngsville, PA.
Abby Maloney ’02 married Brian
Dunnigan on June 19, 2010 in
Baltimore, MD. Maura Maloney ’06,
sister of the bride, was maid of honor.
The Maloney girls are daughters
of Melanie Maloney Gillespie
’71 and husband James. Abby is a
graduate of Kent State University
and is a behavioral counselor for the
Baltimore–based non-profit Power
Inside. Her husband is a graduate
of the University of Maryland and
American University. He is an English
professor at the University of Maryland,
Baltimore.
Christine Radomski ’02 received her
BA in art history from John Carroll
University, a degree from Scuolo
Leonardo da Vinci, Rome, Italy, for
Italian language, and recently earned
her master of arts in history from
Cleveland State University. She is
currently the assistant director for the
Cleveland Artists Foundation. Anne Wittman ’02 graduated from
Catholic University Law School sixth in
her class. She is employed at a law firm
in Washington, D.C.
Meg Warner ’03 graduated from Penn
State University with a dual major
in psychology and Spanish. She is
currently teaching high school Spanish
in Charleston, WV.
Dan Zimmer ’03 is the new
development director at the Visiting
Nurse Association of Erie County.
Courtney Sullivan ’04 received a
BA in English and French from St.
Bonaventure University. She is an
organizational leadership graduate
student at Mercyhurst University. She
also worked on Kathy Dahlkemper’s
congressional reelection campaign
in 2010 and interned in Senator Bob
Casey’s Erie office in 2011.
Jake Agresti ’06 graduated from
Gannon University with a degree
in business administration and is
employed as a flow leader at GE
Transportation in Lawrence Park, PA.
Jeremy Crane-Huston ’06 graduated
in May from Penn State Erie, The
Behrend College School of Engineering,
with his bachelor’s in mechanical
engineering technology. He accepted
a position with GE Transportation in
the engineering department.
Karin Waskiewicz ’06 earned her BFA
from Kent State University in 2010. Her
acrylic work, Collective Behavior, earned
the Editor’s Pick in December from
Miami’s Pulse, a contemporary
art gallery.
Amanda Milhisler ’07 graduated in
December from Clarion University with
a dual degree in elementary education
and special education.
Stephen Wittuck ’07 participated in
The Call to Serve trip this past summer
with CTS completing over 860 hours
of service in a three week period.
Stephen volunteered with nine others
and helped to change the lives of
people who experienced flooding in
Nashville, TN, worked with the Capital
Food Bank of Texas and Habitat for
Humanity, teamed up with Operation
Helping Hands in New Orleans, LA, and
helped to renovate damaged homes
from Hurricane Katrina.
18
James Cowles ’08 was the sole
recipient for 2011 of the Dr. Nicholas
J. Hosu Memorial Scholarship. He is
a biology and pre-med major at
Gannon University.
Medical Center. This fall Lauren had
the honor of being selected as a
Morale Captain and led a committee of
33 volunteers in various projects and
fundraisers throughout the months
leading up to THON weekend. In
addition, she is also working on her
Honors Thesis “Perspective of Parents
on the Experience of Having a Child
with an ASD”.
Ethan Johns ’08 completed a co-op
with the Air Force this summer. He
worked at the National Air and Space
Intelligence Center at Wright-Patterson
Air Force Base in Dayton, OH, with
sponsor Michael Beerbower ’99.
Lauren Frey ’08 was in the Dominican
Republic for three weeks this past
summer with International Student
Volunteers. She spent the first week
in a Spanish immersion program with
a host family and attended classes to
learn customs, dance and food and
also to hone her Spanish language
skills. For the next two weeks she
stayed at an ecotourism resort, living
in a palapa atop a mountain, and
volunteered for the DREAM project.
Each morning she boarded a bus to
the village below. She taught various
classes for the children every other
day and did construction work for
the village school on the opposite
days. The Spanish she was taught at
Mercyhurst Prep proved invaluable
as everyone thought she was fluent.
Lauren is currently a senior at Penn
State University, Schreyer Honors
College, majoring in communication
sciences and disorders. She has been
on the dean’s list every semester. At
Penn State Lauren has been a teaching
assistant, a member of NSSLHA, and
is very active in THON. THON is the
largest student-run philanthropic
venture in the world and raised
over $9.6 million dollars in 2011
for pediatric cancer at the Hershey
Stacey Stachera ’08, a University of
Pittsburgh senior majoring in political
science with a concentration in
international relations, was named a
recipient of the 2011 David L. Boren
Award for International Study. The
scholarship required that she spend at
least one year working for the federal
government after graduation.
Gwen Thompson ’08 spent a
“Semester at Sea” that enabled her to
spend time in Spain, Turkey, Greece
and Morocco.
Maggie Cooney ’12 and Anthony Palermo
’09 starred in Fame-The Musical
Anthony Palermo ’09 shared the
Erie Playhouse Mainstage summer
production of Fame-The Musical with
Maggie Cooney ’12, playing the lead
roles of Nick Piazza and Serena Katz
respectively. Also in the production
were Shannon Bentley ’13, Maria
Nasca ’06, Steven Wells ’13 and
Mr. Mike Miele ’03.
Conrad Kubaney ’10 was
inducted into Indiana University of
Pennsylvania’s Phi Eta Sigma National
Honor Society. He is a nursing major
and member of the IUP varsity
swim team.
Eddie Baxter ’11, a freshman at
Kenyon College, played Teddy Brewster
in Arsenic and Old Lace in October and
is playing Barnardo and Lucianus (a
sailor and an attendant) in the large
Theatre Department production of
Hamlet in early February. He also
successfully auditioned into an all
male a cappella group, The Kenyon
Ransom Notes, who have advanced to
the quarterfinals of the International
Championships of A Cappella
this February.
Shane Saginak ’11 received The
Ron Costello Memorial Scholarship for
2011. He is a freshman at Fort Lewis
College
Bethany Woll ’11 received an
Edinboro University Alumni Association
Admissions Grant Scholarship this year.
Mercy Volunteer Corps
service opportunities
Have you ever considered volunteer
service among the poor? The Sisters of
Mercy of the Americas, in partnership
with the lay women and men of
Mercy Volunteer Corps, offer you an
opportunity to do so. Together they
enter into relationship with people who
are economically poor or marginalized.
Volunteers cultivate mercy and justice
in the world through compassionate
service, social justice, spirituality and a
simple lifestyle in community. Mercy
volunteers serve within the U.S., Guyana
and South America. Volunteers make a
one-year commitment beginning the
first week of August. A small stipend,
transportation to and from the site of
service, housing, medical insurance,
school loan deferment and inspiration
to last a lifetime are part of the
experience. Volunteers must be 21
years of age or older. Please visit
www.mercyvolunteers.org for
more information.
19
Sympathy
Alumni:
Autumn Englert Perkins ’30
Audrey Steinfurth Conway Hamburger Babo ’36
Beatrice Sproul Sucharski ’44
Maureen Regan Trippe ’51
Charlene Ruth Withers Keinath ’52
Karen Wolfe Ferretti ’61
Donna Alessi Schultz Connor ’66
Mary Margaret Theiss Malve ‘75
Michelle A. Ganza McCurdy ’76
Pamela Mannarelli Shovlin ’90
Nicholas J. Lombardo ’01
Jeremy Quezada ’03
Husband of:
Mary Schultz Blakeslee ’44
Virginia Lipiec Morabito ’67
Laurie Chrzanowski Uhlir ’89
Lauren Conway Steen ’00
Mother of:
Annmarie Bernadowicz George ’62
Carol Battaglia Zimm ’67
Dr. Peggy Cebe ’66 and
Dr. Juanita Cebe ’70 and
Charmaine Cebe ‘72
Cathy Orcutt Bryan ’71
Cindy Berdis ’73 and Stephanie Berdis Winiarczyk ’77
Margaret Monahan-Bopp ’74 and
Kathleen Monahan ’76
Kevin Conway ’75
Bryan T. Jones ’94
Kate Bowers Lemons ’97 and
Beth Bowers Bauer ’98
Jeremy Infantino ’01
Melinda Rea ’05, Courtney Rea ’06
and Ricky Rea ’08
Son of:
Nancy Meagher Genck ’52
Father of:
Joe Boesch, DDS ’78
Kathleen Polanski Noce ’78
Margaret Gebhardt Heffer ‘83
Kelly Erven Maslar ‘87
Suzanne Schaaf Lichtenwalter ’87
Michelle Marie Iarussi Schroeck ’90
Michelle Wysocki Breter ’91
Gerianne Dudenhoeffer Soliwada ’93
April Simora Nordrehaug ’94
Jeremy Kish ’00
Tom Reisenweber ’02
Other:
Mother and stepfather of former
teacher, assistant principal and
president, Georgia Conway Johnson
Former MPS swim coach Tom Doyle
Stepfather of:
Kevin Conway ’75
Brother of:
Joan Koppelman Hartman ’53
Marilyn Reiser ’61 and
Janet Reiser ’63
Dr. Emma Lee McCloskey ’69
Debbie Laird ’72
Valerie Koscelnik ’86
Sister of:
Paul Mannarelli ’92
*Although we make every effort to offer
our sympathy to immediate members
of the Mercyhurst Prep family who have
lost a father, mother, child, brother or
sister, we are not always aware of the
death of a loved one, so we ask that you
contact the alumni office.
Daughter of:
Mary C. Renz Anderson ’70
A Trusted Name –
A New Convenience
Some of the current opportunities
include:
• Make your annual donation to
the Mercyhurst Prep Fund which
includes scholarships and financial
aid to deserving students
We love it when you stay in touch and
involved with Mercyhurst Prep and
we are happy to announce an easy
and secure way to interact from your
computer or mobile device.
Acceptiva is a trusted name in online interactive communications.
You will now find that many of the
opportunities presented to you on
the MPS website link to a page that
bears both the Acceptiva logo and the
padlock symbol that assures you of
the site’s security.
With more and more of us making
donations, reservations and
communications online, Acceptiva
is the perfect fit with MPS. Check it
out for yourself by going to www.
mpslakers.com, click the Advancement
tab and then click on any of the green
underlined opportunities.
Here is the direct link http://www.
mpslakers.com/advancement.html
and the qr code you can scan with
your smart phone.
• Become a sponsor or buy a ticket
for A Night at the MPS Grand on
March 31st, 2012
Please feel confident about using
our Acceptiva pages knowing
that all of the information and
payments come directly to
Mercyhurst Prep.
Thank you for checking out
Acceptiva and for your continued
support of Mercyhurst Prep. We
are MPS Marked by Pride & Spirit!
20
Congratulations!
Maureen Baer Parker ’03 and
husband Mathew on the August 3
birth of their first child, Mia Kathleen.
She is the niece of Mary Ann Baer
Noel ’84, Mark Baer ’87 and Sean
Baer ’99 (MPS teacher and coach),
Meghan Baer ’08 , Kyle Baer ’10, and
Eric Baer ’15.
Alexa, Arabella, Annalise and Ava Schlaerth
Jocelyn Dee, MD, ’87 and husband
Alan Schlaerth, MD on the April birth
of Arabella Charlize Dee Schlaerth. She
joins sisters Alexa, Annalise and Ava.
Myla and Eric with daughters
Myla Ennis Rinehardt ’95 and
husband Eric on the birth of Emma
Grace. She joins Ellie Ennis (age 3).
Lauren Conway Steen ’00 and late
husband Lee on the May birth of
their first daughter, Kaylee Steen. Lee
unexpectedly passed away on August
26, 2011.
Mia Kathleen Parker
James Swoger ’02 and Jennifer
Hauser Swoger ’02 on the August 20th
birth of twins James Walker and
Cara Lynn.
Emma Russell
Cari Mester Russell ’93, former MPS
faculty member, and husband John
welcomed Emma Clare Russell April
12, 2010. She joins big brother, Eion. Both Cari and John teach in the Harbor
Creek School District. Cari teaches
8th grade science at the Junior High
School and John teaches 3rd grade at
Klein Elementary. Angie Matusiak Matts ’98 and
husband Jeffrey on the October 2010
birth of Abigale.
Jayden Anthony White
Nick White ’05 and Toni Cole on the
October birth of Jayden Anthony
White. He is the grandson of Anna
Coffrey White ’85 and nephew of
Anissa White ’12.
Madison Noelle Matczak
Stacey Szoszorek Matczak ’02 and
husband Michael Matczak ’02 on the
birth of their second child, Madison
Noelle, on August 5, 2011. Her big
sister Abigail, age two, is very excited
to have her join the family.
**If you are a graduate and a new
parent, please let the alumni office know
of the birth of your child and include
a photo if you wish. We send a special
baby tee to your newest family member.
21
Two special surprise guests shared in
the gathering at Calamari’s and both
guests were known to the members
of the class of 1968 and 1971.
Can you guess who they are?
Where are they now?
Ms. Barbara Brairton is a retired
guidance counselor from the North
East School District. She volunteers
for Meals on Wheels in the Erie
community and is an active lector
at St. James Church. She is currently
a member of the MPS Board of
Trustees.
Mrs. Christine Czapleski has taught
math for forty-six and a half years
continuously since leaving MPS
and will most likely conclude her
career this June. She has spent the
last 26 years teaching at Shady Side
Academy in Pittsburgh, PA.
Teaser!
Sr. Christine (left), who taught math and science, and Sr. Barbara (right), English/social
studies teacher and counselor at Mercyhurst Prep in the late 60s and early 70s, were
the surprise guests.
Nominate a
“Distinguished” Friend
Do you know a Mercyhurst Prep or
Mercyhurst Seminary alum who has
achieved notable success, exemplifies
dedication to service, exhibits
commitment to the school and its
mission, or is a rising star? Each year the
Alumni Association honors deserving
alumni who have achieved noteworthy
professional accomplishments and have
made significant contributions to the
school. Please take a few minutes to
nominate an alum. This year there is a
new category, Young Alumni Award,
and the criteria is listed below. This is your
opportunity to help us honor our alums
who should be recognized for his/her
achievement.
Submit his or her name, class year, and
why you believe the nominee should
receive an award. A nomination form is
available at www.mpslakers.com/alumni.
Nominations must be received by
March 15, 2012.
Distinguished Alumni Awards
Career Award and Service Award
The nominees should be individuals who
have achieved a high level of success in
Spring Musical
The Wizard of Oz
April 26 & 27 @ 7 p.m.
April 28 @ 3 p.m. & 7 p.m.
April 29 @ 3 p.m.
Adult $7, Seniors $6 and
Students $5
Spring Concerts
May 11
Dance Concert @ 7 p.m.
their careers and at the same time have
been generous in support of Mercyhurst
Preparatory School and community and/
or have rendered exceptional volunteer
service to the school, their workplace, or
the community.
May 15
Music Concert @ 7 p.m.
FREE
President’s Award
The nominees for this award, chosen
by the Alumni Association President,
should be individuals who have exhibited
longtime dedication and unfailing
support to Mercyhurst Preparatory
School, its faculty, and its students.
Please remember
to change your
address with us if
you move or change
your name.
Mercy Award
The nominees should be individuals
who have demonstrated exemplary
commitment to the Mercyhurst
Preparatory School mission “to prepare
students from all religious and ethnic
backgrounds for a successful, productive,
and compassionate life in an everchanging and interdependent world.”
Email: mgensheimer@
mpslakers.com with “ALUMNI”
as the subject line
Young Alumni Award
The nominees should be individuals
who exhibit leadership in their
personal, professional, or volunteer
accomplishments and also in their
involvement with Mercyhurst Preparatory
School. Alumni from the classes of 19922002 are eligible for the award.
OR
Call: 814-824-2067
OR
Mail: Alumni Office
538 E Grandview Blvd.
Erie PA 16504-2697
OR USE Facebook:
Send a message through
Mercyhurst Preparatory School
or Marcia Gensheimer
22
Alumni Spotlight
Kathryn (Katie) Francis
• MPS 2002 – co-valedictorian
some damage along the east coast
and to our Capital city’s historical
buildings and structures. The National
Park Service immediately closed the
monument to the public and called in
WJE, Katie’s employer since 2006.
• International Baccalaureate
Diploma holder
Jumping at the chance to be part
of the D.C. inspection team Katie
said, “Since I was among the first
• Associate III engineer with Wiss,
Janner, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) group of seven at WJE to get the
Society of Rope Access Technicians
(SPRAT) certification levels, I had
Did you ever wonder as you drive
the experience on ropes necessary
over or under a bridge or maneuver
and had also worked on a variety
your vehicle in that one, narrow lane
of projects involving stone façade
of traffic in a tunnel if it is safe? Has
inspection and repair work similar
that bridge or tunnel been inspected
to the scope of work required for
recently? Are you confident driving
both the work at the Washington
your vehicle there?
Monument and the National
Cathedral.”
Katie Francis, a Chicago resident and
engineer with Wiss, Janner, Elstner
As you can imagine and may
Associates, Inc., doesn’t just wonder;
remember, this job captured national
she investigates and assesses. And
media attention and was often the
not just bridges and tunnels, but also
lead story on the nightly news and
buildings, plazas, parking garages
the lead headline in big and small
and monuments. Most recently, she
newspapers. Katie and team members
added rappelling and inspecting
were photographed, interviewed
the Washington Monument and the
and videotaped on a regular basis, a
National Cathedral in Washington,
challenge not usually encountered by
D.C. to her credentials. Not many,
many civil engineers.
actually only four or five individuals
in the whole world, can claim that
There were more serious challenges
accomplishment on his/her resume.
as well including the uniqueness of
structures, limited accessibility, and
If you recall, a 5.8 magnitude
enhanced security protocol. The
earthquake, the largest to strike the
monument is believed to be the
eastern part of the US since 1944,
world’s tallest obelisk at 555 feet,
struck on August 23, 2011 creating
the cathedral is the second largest
cathedral in the U.S., and both
structures are over 100 years old. In
addition to these characteristics, Katie
noted “the fact that both structures
are historic and very iconic because
that makes them primary tourist
attractions for visitors to Washington
D.C., and all repair options need to
have a consciousness that not only the
function but the appearance of the
repairs is quite an important aspect of
Katie rappelling down the Washington
achieving a successful repair.”
National Monument, the tallest structure in
Washington, D.C., while doing an inspection.
Photo by Colin Winterbottom
No fear of heights for Katie while inspecting
atop the National Cathedral. Photo by
Matthew James Girard
Other large projects/structures Katie
has worked on include the Central
Artery Tunnel in Boston, MA, (AKA
the Big Dig); The David L. Lawrence
Convention Center in Pittsburgh, PA;
Perry’s Victory and International Peace
Memorial, Put-in-Bay, OH; Illinois DOT
bridges; Chicago Transit Authority
(CTA) stations and viaducts; and
commercial buildings in Houston, TX.
Katie finds many positives in her
job such as the variety of projects,
working outside almost 50% of the
time, and problem solving. She
credits some of her accomplishments
to her Mercyhurst Prep education.
“Mercyhurst Prep helped me to get
into a good college and to develop
a solid foundation of knowledge
from which to build on in college. It
expanded my knowledge through
classes such as World Religions
and Art History that I may not have
been exposed to otherwise. Those
classes allowed me to gain additional
perspective regarding a wider variety
23
of people and how their
beliefs have impacted their
actions and contributions
to society over the years.”
Mercyhurst Prep is the only
International Baccalaureate
World School in northwest
Pennsylvania and in addition
to her MPS diploma, Katie
earned an International
Baccalaureate Diploma as
well. She credits pursuing
the IB courses with
improving her writing skills
saying, “I wrote longer and
more technical essays in
high school than I ever did
in college to fulfill any of my
engineering coursework.
The ability to write quality
reports and proposals is
essential for me to perform
my job because without that
skill, I would be unable to
convey to a client the issues
they must deal with on their
structure and what the key
points are regarding the repair
work, etc.”
Another benefit of the IB curriculum is
the development of analytical thinking
skills, some of which are mastered
through the unique course, Theory
of Knowledge (TOK). Katie said, “In
the Theory of Knowledge course you
focused on exactly this skill (analytical
thinking)…this skill is crucial to
my success at the company I work
for since we are constantly solving
problems and trying to defend or
improve upon the variety of solutions
we may create as options…There
are often many factors that may go
into the end result which you need to
logically sort through and analytically
determine which factor you believe
to be the most significant.”
Problem solving is another acquired
skill accentuated by the International
Baccalaureate program. “Problem
solving is generally required to
engineer a retrofit or repair design
that meets the clients’ needs, can be
adapted to the existing condition of
the structure, is cost effective, and
functions to repair the deficiency from
which the problem arose. It also allows
me to watch the repairs being installed
on the structure and work with the
contractor actually implementing our
repairs and solve problems that may
arise during the course of the work,”
commented Katie.
After graduating from Mercyhurst
Prep, Katie earned a BS in civil
engineering from Johns Hopkins
University. She is certified as an AWS
Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), a
Fracture Critical Inspector, NHI, and a
Safety Inspector of IN-Service
Bridges, NHI.
When she’s not traveling for work,
Katie relaxes by playing hockey for a
club team, playing all positions with
the exception of goalie. She also
climbs outdoors and at indoor gyms
as much as possible (in addition to
climbing buildings for work!). In the
last several years, she’s taken two
mountaineering trips, one to Ecuador
for three weeks and one to Chile for
seven weeks. She has climbed to
18,500 feet altitude and learned how
to travel and live on glaciers.
As for the future, Katie likes the
Chicago city life with its share of tall
building and bridges that she jokingly
“hangs from,” and is comfortable and
somewhat partial residing (again)
on one of the Great Lakes. Since
she enjoys her job, her talented coworkers, and the travel, she plans to
continue her work at WJE. She has set
her sights on passing the SE (structural
engineering ) exam licensure in the
future. If she ever has the inclination
to relocate, WJE has 20 other cities
with offices from which to choose.
The next time you’re traveling over
a bridge, tunnel, or looking at a
skyscraper and you notice someone
rappelling on that structure, look
closely, because it just might be Katie
Francis at work or perhaps play.
24
Alumni Spotlight
Megan Kern
• MPS 2004
• Entrepreneur, environmentalist,
educator
Volunteerism and environmentalism
operate as mantras for Megan Kern,
class of 2004, the initiator of the MPS
school garden and volunteer at the
Reserva Ecologica Chontachaka in
southeast Peru.
Some samples of how the food from our
edible garden is used
The idea for the Mercyhurst Prep
school garden began back in 2009
when Megan was returning to Erie
after spending time in Colorado. “I was
looking for a really cool idea for MPS
so I made a proposal and agreed to do
the work and raise some money for
the garden,” stated Megan.
One of the school’s current Middle
States Accreditation for Growth
objectives is to improve wellness in
the MPS student body, so Megan’s idea
of creating and using the garden to
provide fresh vegetables and herbs
within the school fit the bill perfectly.
With some help from Stan’s Garden
Center and graduate Cindy
Skarzenski ’78, Rich Ken Construction
Company, and some alumni donations,
Megan was able to plan, plant, and
grow the organic school garden
beginning in the spring of 2009. “You
have to have a vision about how it’s
going to grow and fit it in with the
curriculum,” said Megan.
The garden, consisting of six raised
beds, is located behind the school and
features a multitude of vegetables,
herbs and some flowering plants to
ward off unwanted scavengers.
stated on the website. This is not her
first visit and it probably will not be
her last as she sports a passion for
helping humanity and preserving our
environment, especially the rain forest.
The first year was somewhat
experimental but much progress has
been made since. With the help of
Mrs. Diane McCullough, dining hall
manager, and our new chef, Ms. Kelly
Sanders, trips to the school garden
to harvest fresh vegetables and herbs
for school luncheons became a daily
routine. The salad bar and homemade
soups were offered daily with veggies
and herbs just picked that morning.
You can’t get food fresher than that
and students, faculty and staff greatly
enjoyed these menu items.
“I knew I wanted to go to South
America since I studied Mayan history.
I stumbled upon this reserve and it
seemed a good fit,” explained Megan.
She first spent five weeks there this
past summer and wanted to go back.
The female director appreciated
Megan’s capabilities and looked
forward to her return.
Megan’s wish for the future is to have
the garden used to its full potential
and have it more fully incorporated
into a departmentalized curriculum
such as art, science, and math. She
enthusiastically reported, “This is a
wonderful tool of teachers to use.”
With the garden on a hiatus for the
winter, Megan, not one to be idle,
set out on a six-month stint to do
some volunteer work in the Reserva
Ecologica Chontachaka in Peru, that
aims to work for “the defense and
conservation of the Amazonian forest
and all the beings that inhabit it,” as
The area where Megan is volunteering
in South America features amazing
natural treasures. It displays a high
biodiversity, so preserving this
ecological reserve is of paramount
importance.
Culprits contributing to the
destruction of this natural resource
include deforestation by mining and
oil companies whose operations
pollute the air and water and often
contribute to health issues and habitat
destruction.
Megan’s passion is evident when
describing her goals to study and
instruct. “I want to educate locals and
preserve their land so they won’t move
out. When you cut down trees, over
90% of nutrients are in the roots, so you
just can’t replenish the rain forest.”
The main bungalow where volunteers cook, eat, talk, study and relax together.
25
A typical day includes an early start
since the sun sets at 5:30 p.m. People
of all ages share communal housing
where one structure can house up
to 30 people at a time. Folks work
until lunch since the afternoon
temperatures can reach extreme
highs. Time can be spent doing
inventory or upkeep of the area,
following fauna or flora trails, and
playing games with the children.
Megan completed her bachelor of
arts at Flagler College in St. Augustine,
Florida, and when she returns to Erie by
August, she plans to then complete her
master’s degree in secondary science
education at Edinboro University. She’ll
have garnered first-hand knowledge
to finish her thesis on the rainforest
as well as some unique memories, a
sense of accomplishment, and innate
wisdom learned from the natives of the
Amazon area.
“Everyone is happy there even though
their future is unknown. I’m learning
from them as well.”
Megan standing in the Rio Kcosñipata which runs along the reserve. The photo taken in
August shows a low river during the dry season. The river rises 30 feet or higher during the
wet season.
MPS Wish List by Department
Here are some of the items currently
needed at MPS. Please contact
our Advancement Department at
[email protected] if you
can help.
Athletics
• Trophy cases in the athletic foyer,
estimated cost $3,000
• New wall padding in the
gymnasium, estimated cost $8,500
• Resurfacing of the gym floor,
estimated cost $30,000
• Replacing of gymnasium bleachers,
estimated cost $75,000
• Camera & dubbing machine for the
coaches, estimated cost $2,000
Math
• 2 document projectors, estimated
cost @ $600 = $1,200 total
• TI-84 emulator software (for 5
teachers), estimated cost @ $150
= $750 total
MPS World Language
• Individual size whiteboards for
student use in classrooms
25 per teacher for a classroom set
(125 total), approx. $5 per board =
$625 total – PURCHASED BY THE
MPS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
• 6 Digital voice recorders @ approx.
$50= $300
• Elmo Visual Presenter (project texts
• Two new treadmills for fitness center, and documents to a screen),
approx. $1,700
estimated cost @ $2,500
• Laminating machine (could be used
by the entire school) approx. $1,350
Science
• Spectrum Tube Power Supply
[~$229.99]
This item can be used in Science
Concepts, Chemistry and Physics. Separate tubes containing
individual gases can be energized
displaying different colors unique
to the gas contained inside. This
phenomenon exemplifies electrons
being energized to a higher
energy level and then releasing
that energy as the electrons travel
back to their ground state. For
example, NASA uses this concept
to identify the presence or absence
of particular gases in and around
planets as space is explored.
26
Fall athletics
Reserve your place on
the MPS memory wall!
Proceeds benefit the
MPS Scholarship Fund!
Our boys soccer team advanced to the PIAA state finals in 2010 and 2011.
As the fall season came to a close we had so much to be proud of. The season
started off with the girls cross country team claiming their second straight
District 10 cross country championship and advancing to the PIAA state meet.
The boys had another great year finishing third in the district and being the first
boys team in school history to advance to the PIAA state championships. Both
teams return a lot of runners next year, so the expectations will be high and their
seasons should be very exciting.
The girls tennis team once again won the region championship and claimed
the District 10 AA team championship. Senior Maggie McLaughlin won her
fourth straight District 10 AA singles championship. Sophomores Katie Elia and
Brittany McBride won the District 10 AA doubles championship for the second
consecutive year. The team returns many players, so next season should be
very exciting. The girls volleyball team had a good season and advanced to the
District 10 tournament. The boys and girls golf teams had good seasons with the
girls finishing second and the boys finishing third in their respective regions. The
girls captured the school’s first District 10 team championship and advanced to
the PIAA western regional.
The boys varsity soccer team had a wonderful season by winning their third
straight District 10 A soccer championship and advancing to the PIAA state finals
for the second year in a row.
We would like to take this time to thank our seniors who have given so much of
their time and effort to their respective teams. We thank them for the memories
that they have provided for all of us and the friendships we have built and wish
them the best in their future endeavors.
Dan Perfetto ’92, athletic director
•
Each memory square is a
4.25” x 4.25” personalized ceramic
tile located in the first floor hall
outside the gym area.
•
Acknowledge a friend, loved one,
club, team, fellow student, event,
accomplishment, organization,
yourself...or simply show your
support for MPS.
•
Buy extra tiles for display in your
home, office...or to give as gifts!
Each extra tile comes with a FREE
easel stand!
For more information, please
contact Lisa Nietupski at 824-2408
or email [email protected]
THANK YOU!
27
Now is the time
to consider taking part in the
PA Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program.
EITC allows you to redirect your business tax dollars
from Harrisburg to Mercyhurst Prep scholarships!
If you are a business owner, or can encourage the owner of the business you work for to take part
in this unique program – it means much needed scholarship dollars for MPS for little or no out of
pocket expense for the company.
Timeline:
• March, 2012-Applications for the 2012-2013 fiscal year will be released by the state.
Educational Improvement
Tax Credit Program
• June, 2012-Applications will be collected at MPS to be delivered to Harrisburg at the first possible
moment they will be accepted. (You also have the option of sending the application in yourself
if you would prefer.)
• July 2, 2012-Applications are accepted by the state (applications received by the state before this
Business
and
Application
| March 2011
date will not be eligible). They are processed
on Guidelines
a first come first
served
basis.
Award of Tax Credits to Business Firms for
Contributions
Scholarship
Organizations,
*These tax credits historically have been exhausted
in just ato
few
days time.
Educational Improvement Organizations and
Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Organizations
For more information about EITC, please call the Lisa Nietupski in the MPS advancement office at
(814) 824-2408 or check out www.mpslakers.com – click on the “advancement” tab and click
on “EITC” or scan this code with your smart phone to go there directly.
Thank You!
>
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Erie PA
Permit No. 22
538 East Grandview Blvd.
Erie, Pennsylvania 16504-2606
www.mpslakers.com
814.824.2210
Please remember to update your informnation with the MPS alumni office.
Please mail this form to Marcia Gensheimer, Mercyhurst Prep Alumni Office, 538 East Grandview Blvd., Erie, PA 16504
or email this information to [email protected]
www.mpslakers.com
Name: (first)(maiden)(last)
Spouse NameYear of graduation from Mercyhurst Prep
Address
CityStateZip
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Place of EmploymentJob Title
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