heartWILL BE - St. Francis High School

FALL2010
Focus
ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL
COLLEGE PREPARATORY
For
wHere
treasure
heart
Your
is...
there your
will be
ALSO.
—Matthew 6:21
F a i t h
•
A C A D E M I C S
•
t r a d i t i o n
Our treasures are found...
Wh e n w e r e a c h o u t t o o t h e r s .
Recently, with a deep sense of gratitude, the father of four of our
graduates told me, “My children learned compassion at St. Francis!”
Yes, they had learned Avogadro’s number and the Quadratic Formula.
They knew when to use a colon rather than a semi-colon and
understood the tenets of the Monroe Doctrine. He was happy that
they had been admitted to the universities of their choice. Still, he
appeared to be most delighted that they had come to value compassion
enough to make it their way of being. This dad’s statement brought
to mind these words from the Gospel of St. Matthew, “For where
your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (6:21)
There is an atmosphere
here at St. Francis that
filters into people’s
lives—a sense that
rather than the world
owing us something,
we owe something
to the world.
When taken to heart,
it is not just a gesture,
but rather a way of
life. I am proud of
our students, and I am
proud of our alums.
Inspired by the prayer of our patron, “Lord make me an instrument of
your peace,” we discover that our treasures may rest somewhere beyond
our own interests. They are found when we reach out to the hateful,
the injured, the doubtful, the despaired, the confused, and the sad and
sow love, pardon, faith, hope, light, and joy. As a Catholic school, we
have the freedom and the responsibility to educate our students in our
faith and to promote the values of the gospel of Christ—values that
lead us long after we have left the classroom.
I draw your attention to the stories of B.J. Blake, Class of ’00, and his
efforts to raise money for cancer research and of Lorraine Nelson,
a member of our school’s Board of Directors, and her reasons for
including St. Francis in her will. B.J. and Lorraine have been marked
by the experiences that they have had at St. Francis. They have learned
or observed the values that are being taught to students at our school.
These values have endured throughout the generations.
As we come to the end of one year and await the beginning of a new
one, we celebrate Thanksgiving and Advent. These celebrations make
it clear to me that thank you notes and wish lists reveal the treasures
of our work together at St. Francis High School. Thank you notes
provide us with the opportunities to look back on the blessings that
we have received. Wish lists present us with prospects of hopes for
our future. Both show us where our hearts are!
May God bless you and your loved ones in all your endeavors,
Thomas V. Bednar
President
2
w w w. s f h s n e t. o r g
Rem ark able People—
Livi n g th e i r fa ith day to day
on the next sever al
pages you will meet four
very rem ark able people!
All of their stories are unique. All come
from completely different perspectives,
but all have one very important thing in
commmon: St. Francis High School has
had a profound influence on their lives.
Each, in his or her own way, has taken
A Tribute to the
St. Francis Community
from this school the directive to ”...make
me an instrument of your peace...” We
thought you would like to know their stories.
Jack Bl ak e
Bl ake fa mily remembers their Father
St. Francis has
always taught
its students that
they are not alone
in the world.
They truly are
here to help and
guide each other
on their journey
through life.
St. Francis
teachers, coaches,
and graduates live
this philosophy
in the classroom,
on the playing
field, and in their
daily lives. It is a
legacy they are
proud to pass on
to all current and
future students.
This past Father’s Day marked the 4th Annual
Jack Kicks Cancer soccer tournament to raise
money for LIVESTRONG, the Lance Armstrong
Foundation, and the Wheaton Park District. The
fundraiser was established by the Blake Family,
including alumni Jack Blake ’00, Tim Blake ’02,
and Meghan Blake ’03, in remembrance of their
father, who passed away from cancer over 13 years
ago, and in honor of Jack Blake ’00, who was
diagnosed with cancer five years ago.
Blessed with yet another day of glorious sunshine
and a welcome cross-field breeze, conditions were
perfect as players of all ages and abilities from
14 and up gathered to raise funds for the Lance
Armstrong Foundation.
The tournament serves as a mini reunion every
summer since an estimated 75% of the participants
are St. Francis alumni. “It is a tribute to the outstanding support of the St. Francis community,”
said Meghan. “It truly speaks to the values that are
instilled in its students and how willing they are
to give back.” St. Francis alumni have been a great
support of the tournament each year, helping raise
over $40,000 to date. Almost everyone has been
affected by cancer in some way, and Jack Kicks
Cancer provides a great way for people to give back.
A more emotional highlight followed at the posttournament festivities in Buckingham Court when
key sponsor Mike Abernathy paid tribute to the
late Jack Blake, the husband, father, friend, coach,
and mentor in whose honor this event is held.
Following the toast was the traditional drinking
from the cup by tournament champions.
Beyond the $10,000 raised for the Lance
Armstrong Foundation from this year’s event,
there was also the unveiling of a new $1,000 fund
set up with the Wheaton Park District in Jack
Blake’s name. The fund will provide a resource
to kids unable to afford registration fees for local
soccer leagues and camps. Establishing this fund
allows Jack Kicks Cancer the opportunity to give
back to the Wheaton soccer community while
also continuing to raise cancer awareness and
benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation, an
unparalleled resource for those affected by cancer.
The Blake family would like to thank all players
and volunteers who made the event such a success,
as well as the local businesses, without whose
continued support the tournament would not
be possible. “I wasn’t surprised at the amount of
support stemming from the St. Francis family,”
said Jack Blake. “I was a freshman at St. Francis
when my father passed away and could not have
made it through such a tough time without the
sympathy and support from my classmates and
St. Francis faculty.” In return, the St. Francis
family is also not surprised at the wonderful
example being set by alumnus Jack Blake each
year. He is a true example of the values taught
in every classroom.
Traditionally, Jack Kicks Cancer is held Father’s
Day weekend; information on future events is
posted at www.jackkickscancer.com. Please see
the website if you are interested in future events
or would like to make a donation.
3
Rem ark able People—
Livi n g th e i r fa ith day to day
Lorraine, like so many other members of the community,
understands the importance of Catholic education and appreciates
the quality of the young men and women who graduate from
St. Francis. We thank Lorraine and all the others whose kindness
and generosity continue to help us fufill our Christian mission.
Lorr aine Nelson
Building a Legacy
Lorraine Nelson first met St. Francis
High School through a professional
working relationship when she was
hired as the school’s campaign
consultant for the “Completing
the Dream” campaign to build the
Science Suite and Learning Resource
Center. Lorraine says, “When I
saw the students and teachers in
the learning environment, it brought
back memories of how my high
school experience shaped who I am
today.” Always a strong supporter
of Catholic education, Lorraine
believes that providing Catholic
education is simply a part of our
Confirmation promise.
Living in Wheaton, Lorraine says,
“I appreciate the impact St. Francis
has on our youth. I’ve made a
provision in my will to make sure
the opportunity for Catholic
education is always available in
this community.” After Lorraine’s
professional relationship with
St. Francis ended, she was asked
to serve on the School Board, so
she can continue her involvement
with St. Francis.
Lorraine believes in giving her
time, talent, and financial resources.
“It wasn’t enough for me to simply
write a check for the annual fund
and capital campaign. I wanted to
support the institution for the long
term. My wish is that everyone feels
compelled to offer their support,
too, because of the good work of
this school and the many lives that
it touches.”
There are numerous ways to become
a part of the St. Francis Legacy Club:
through a provision in one’s will, a
trust that returns benefits to both
the donor and St. Francis, or IR A
charitable rollover opportunities. All
of these plans allow for advantageous
tax relief benefits, as well as help
the school.
If you have questions or would like
additional information, you may
schedule a confidential appointment
with Paul Milano, Director of
Development and Alumni Relations,
at [email protected] or by calling
(630) 688-5800, ext. 1144.
A community in which
minds and spirits
4
w w w. s f h s n e t. o r g
Rem ark able People—
Livi n g th e i r fa ith day to day
Ma u r e e n Ca r r o l l
Service to Others her entire life
Maureen Carroll ’62 Boyle always
appreciated the value of her St. Francis
education. The second of eight Carrolls to
graduate from St. Francis, Maureen had
to work to contribute to the family tuition
fund in order to pay for her schooling.
While a student at St. Francis, Maureen
participated in the Glee Club, Sodality
Club, and the Girls’ Athletic Activity
Club. Many of her lifelong friendships
were made through her participation in
clubs and athletics at St. Francis.
The spirit of service has always been
present in Maureen’s life. A nurse for
45 years, Maureen received her R.N. from
Oak Park Hospital School of Nursing
with certification in Orthopedic Nursing.
She is still working because she loves it!
Widowed at a young age, Maureen raised
her five children on her own. She sacrificed
and worked long hours so that her children
could receive a Catholic education. All
of her children have attended St. Francis,
and Maureen couldn’t be prouder of them.
She gives most of the credit to God for
His presence in their lives.
Despite her busy schedule as a nurse
and single parent, Maureen has always
believed in giving back. Her family
got involved in the Ulster Project and
has hosted eight teenagers from Derry,
Ireland. She has served on the parish
council at St. John the Baptist in Winfield
and has been a lector and a Eucharistic
Minister at both St. John the Baptist
and St. Michael. She also distributes
communion to the sick.
One of Maureen’s friends, a fellow
St. Francis alumnus, said it best when
he said, “Maureen’s life has been
exemplified by the words of St. Francis,
‘Preach the Gospel always; when necessary,
use words.’” She has been of service to
others her entire life, constantly putting
others’ needs before her own. She
continues to show the true spirit of the
Lord in her professional life as well as
in her personal life.
Congratulations to
Maureen and Valerie
Distinguished
Year
Alumni of the
rs!
Award Winne
Va l e r i e S e r w a c h
“Communicating” the spirit of St. Fr ancis
Valerie Serwach ’81 Bruggeman
is Director of External Affairs and
Government Relations for AT&T,
responsible for the DuPage, Kendall,
and portions of Kane County area.
In that capacity, she manages AT&T’s
communication with external clients
and stakeholders, including elected
officials, community and civic leaders,
and members of the media. Valerie
joined AT&T in 1999 after serving
as Assistant Administrator for
DuPage County Human Services.
thrive
An active member of the community,
Valerie serves on a number of civic
and philanthropic boards, including
the Downers Grove Area Chamber
of Commerce Board, the Greater
Oak Brook Area Chamber of
Commerce Board, Illinois Republican
Woman Lincoln Series, Teen Parent
Connection, St. Francis High School
Alumni Association, and DuPage
Convalescent Center Foundation.
In 2000, she was appointed to the
West Chicago Fire District Board as
a trustee and the DuPage Workforce
Investment Board.
Valerie is a graduate of North Central
College, with a B.A. in organizational
communication and a minor in business
management. Valerie and her husband
Ken have remained active in St. Francis
High School through volunteering
with the student Fashion Show and
supporting the various sport programs.
Committed to St. Francis High School’s
educational experience, Valerie and
Ken sent their children, Megan ‘10
and Jonathan ‘12, to SFHS.
5
2 01 0
Winning
Teams!
Men ’s
Team
Bubba Brewster ‘95
Jason Watts ‘94
Matt Thomas ‘97
Mike O’Connell ‘95
Nick Zagotta ‘97
Dan Wrocinski ‘93
Women ’s
Team
Bobbi Bergeron ’62
Aschauer
Heidi Schultz-Forsyth ‘84
Meggan Denny ‘83
Alumni Golf Outing
R e u n i o n & Cha r i t y
Greetings to my fellow alumni and all of
our St. Francis family and friends! Watching
these beautiful fall leaves turn to red and
yellow reminds me of all the changes going
on here at school. I am delighted and
honored to take on my new role as President
of the St. Francis Alumni Board. I will have
a challenging time filling the shoes of our
former president, Val Bruggeman. The
board and I would like to thank Val for the
outstanding work she did spearheading our
inaugural years. She was able to motivate
us to get involved, and I look forward to
continuing her efforts.
Shannon Pierce ’84
Denny
Our “signature event” is the Annual
Alumni Golf Outing. I am proud to
announce that this year’s 21st Homecoming round was again a sellout, a
smashing success! This Classic serves as
the major fundraiser for the board. Your
support has been overwhelming. Along
with the generosity of our players, sponsors,
and volunteers, we were able to grant
renewable scholarships, which to date
total over $40,000. Your donations
make it possible to help children and
grandchildren of alumni receive a
Catholic education at St. Francis.
Pictured are
some of the
more than
150 alums
and friends
who competed
in the 21st
Annual Alumni
Golf Outing.
Erin Richmond ‘87
mixed
Co u ples’
Team
Meg Washington ’91
Ciszewski
Jen Washington
Peter Washington
Bob Miller
Grand
Prize
Raff l e
Winner!
Mike Adler ’84 was
the winner of the
grand prize raffle
and walked away
with a 42” LCD-TV!
6
w w w. s f h s n e t. o r g
For those of you who don’t know me, I am
a graduate of the class of 1977, married 29
years to Phil, and mom to Katie ’02, Ryan,
Meghan ’07, and Kelsey ’11. I’ve served on
many SFHS committees over the years and
feel ready to help the Alumni Association
launch to the next level. Please feel free to
contact me with any thoughts or ideas you
may have regarding our school.
In keeping with our “change” theme, we
also awarded a $500 scholarship to a teacher
to use in his or her classroom. This would
not have been achievable without your
participation and dedication to our school.
Golfers were challenged as they battled their
former teacher Peg Kopec, who reigned
over our version of “Beat-the-Pro” Hole.
The competition was fierce, but alumni and
friends found two new opportunities to
win the event. Along with a Men’s category,
we added a Women’s and a Mixed Couples’
division, thereby giving more former
Spartans an opportunity to share in the
bragging rights to the coveted plaque, which
hangs in the hall at SFHS for all to see.
Special Friends
and Sponsors
Relaxation,
fun, and
fellowship
were the
name of the
game for this
foursome
of friends.
The Brewster bunch from the ’90’s won
with a 51, while Team Aschauer/Bergeron
’62 and her children ’80’s scored a 78, and
the Washington/Ciszewski ’91 group shot
a 59. Mike Adler ’84 was the lucky raffle
winner of a 42-inch LCD television. All
classmates had fun renewing friendships
and reminiscing at the 19th Hole. A special
thanks to all of the volunteers, who made
the day so memorable.
The Alumni Board joins me in welcoming
Paul Milano ’71 as our new Director of
Development and Alumni Relations. We
are happy to have him back at SFHS and
are excited to begin working together. Much
thanks, once again, to Jess Buchholz ’00
Stielow for her wonderful years of service
as our previous Alumni Director. We wish
her well in her new endeavors.
I encourage all of you to come home and
see the positive changes happening here at
school. If you are in the area, schedule a
tour to see the new Science/Library wing
under construction. If you live far away,
log on to our website www.sfhs.net.org,
and be sure to register on our alumni page.
Check out what Spartans old and new are
doing. Who knows—you may find an old
friend while looking, and remember: it is
in giving that we receive.
Maribeth Treis ’77 Kerr
President
St. Francis Alumni Board
Thanks to our Mulligan Girls
(L-R) Ann Murray ’73 Harazin,
Joan Murray ’77 Olufs,
Jess Buchholz ’00 Stielow,
and Linda Zierk ’75 Nieting
Special Friends
Save the Date!
22nd Annual Alumni Golf Outing
Friday, September 23, 2011
Arrowhead Golf Course
in Wheaton
Shotgun Start at 9:00 a.m.
Please visit the website
to register or sponsor.
www.sfhsnet.org
All proceeds benefit the
Alumni Scholarship Fund.
Clarice Loiacono ‘76
Mike O’Connell ’95
Tasting Devine
Mary Lou O’Brien ‘77 Fisher
and Gregg Fisher ‘76
The Bruggeman /Serwach Family
Cindy Buchholz
Tom Bednar
Paul McNellis ‘87 and Northwestern
Mutual
Melkandcookies—Rochelle Melka
and Shannon Melka ’98 Grigonis
Barb Knapp ’66 Hall
Stephen Bates
Paul Shoe Service—Doug Herwaldt ’77
and Mary Jones ’79 Herwaldt
Frank Indelli ‘84
t ha n k s t o
our Sponsors
Beverage Cart Sponsors
Cassidy Tire/Ahern Family
Alumni Sponsor
Northwestern Mutual—Paul McNellis ’87
The Dugan and Van Thournout Families
Gate Gift Sponsor
Vaneekeren/Metzler Family
Hole-In-One Sponsor
Webb Chevy, Oak Lawn
Lunch Sponsors
Buck Services Inc., West Chicago
Dunkin Donuts—Todd Shaw ‘89
Power Clean Services—Rock Madden ’77
Eagle Sponsorship (Hole Sponsors)
The Armbrust Family
Beck Houlihan Law Offices
Serwach-Bruggeman Family
The Ferguson Family
Jostens, Lisle
The Kerr Family
The Miller Family
Mulligan Homes—The Jungles Family
R.C. Coil Spring, Glendale Heights
St. Francis Class of 1961
The Theiss Family
Wally’s Printing—The Roskuszka Family
The Russo Family
Party Lite
Diamond Envelope—Jania Family
SFHS School Board
Janor Sports
Finally...no Golf Outing is complete
without remembering to thank the
people who keep our Hole-In-One
dreams alive: Billy and Bruce of
Arrowhead, our honorary Spartans
and former coaches.
7
Focus on..
Alum n i Ac tivities
Alumni Memorial Mass
St. Fr ancis Society
Members Gather for
Mass and Fellowship
With gratitude for the continued support
of St. Francis High School, the annual
St. Francis Society Mass & Brunch was
held on Sunday, October 17. On a beautiful
fall morning, over 100 Society members
gathered in the Kuhn Cultural Arts Center
for a celebratory Mass, followed by a
delectable brunch in the Student Union.
President Tom Bednar expressed thanks
to these individuals, who annually donate
over $1,000 to support the mission of the
school. An added treat was the preview
of the capital campaign project as school
administrators gave tours of the construction
site following the brunch.
Memories of loved ones lost were
celebrated at the annual Memorial Mass
on November 7. More than 140 family
members and friends gathered to remember
and pray for deceased alums, faculty, and
staff of St. Francis. The presence of the family
and friends of Bethani Warner ’08, who
had passed away only several weeks earlier
in late October, was especially moving.
Father Jim Murphy, a longtime friend
of St. Francis, continued his annual
commitment to lead the Mass, which
was started over 20 years ago by alums
Patrick ’69 and Carol Lee ’69 Virtue.
Appropriate readings by several in attendance
and beautiful songs from the St. Francis
Choir, along with Fr. Jim’s wonderful
comments, made the morning one of
quiet, caring remembrances.
Fellowship followed over coffee, juice,
and donuts while all the names of those
remembered were displayed on a permanent,
framed board, as well as scrolling on a
big screen for all to see and reflect. Much
thanks to the Alumni Advisory Board for
their continued support and assistance
with this event.
Cl ass of 1961: Rewrites the reunion rules
The SFHS class of 1961 has been busy for
several years working on their 50th reunion,
which is scheduled for September 16 & 17,
2011. They have organized activities for
both days in order to get reacquainted
with one another. Along with having fun,
they have decided to make this milestone
event more meaningful by establishing a
scholarship fund to assist future students
in obtaining a Catholic education, which
otherwise might not be affordable.
What makes their gift different from other
scholarships is that they have established
an endowment consisting of invested funds
donated by members of the ’61 graduating
class. The earnings generated will be used
to provide scholarships for years to come.
Scholarships will be made available annually.
Hats off to these committed alums, who
are working to build a new avenue to give
back to the school that provided them
the tools to become contributing members
of society!
For more information contact:
Sherry Nybo Lynch
(847) 398-6399 | [email protected]
Matt Gulisano
(630) 327-1889 | [email protected]
Terry Kral
(847) 778-4600 | [email protected]
Donations can be made to:
Class of ’61 Endowment—
DuPage Community Foundation
104 East Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187
Note: This foundation is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization
8
w w w. s f h s n e t. o r g
Remember
the
Spartans!
Alumni Football
Game 2012
For the first time
in almost 25 years,
alumni are invited
to participate in a
full-blown game of
Spartan football. No
two-hand touch or
flag football—this
will be the real thing!
Organized by an
alumni group, with
the encouragement of
the school and Alumni
Board, this event will
take place in August
2012. The game is
open to all alumni
participants whether
or not they played
football for the
Spartans. This could
be the chance you’ve
been waiting for!
Classes ’87-’94 will
challenge classes
’95-’99 for supremacy
on the field. Former
cheerleaders and those
who wished to be
cheerleaders are also
invited to participate.
Playing in the game
will require preparation
and commitment. Proof
of health insurance, a
signed waiver, attendance
at conditioning sessions
and practices in the
summer of 2012, and a
fee to purchase individual
equipment/uniforms
will be necessary.
Afterwards, pads and
other uniform essentials
will be donated to
the school’s football
program, but the game
jerseys will be keepsakes.
If you are interested
in participating in the
game or sponsoring
the event, contact
Kevin Read at either
(630) 768-9403 or
kevinread92@gmail.
Proceeds from the game
will benefit the Alumni
Scholarship Fund.
Focus on..
Meeting Old Friends
Cl ass of 1960
Cl ass of 1975
50th Year Reunion
35th Year Reunion
The Class of 1960 gathered October 8, 2010,
to join the Homecoming festivities during
their 50th Reunion. Before the game eleven
members of the class, along with the team
captains, strode to the center of the field
for the coin toss. The St. Francis president
introduced the alumni, members of the first
graduating class at St. Francis.
The next day the classmates gathered at
St. Francis for a guided tour of the school.
Many changes were noted: air conditioning,
new gym, theatre, new science/library wing
under construction—although the lockers
seemed to be the same lockers! After the tour
all gathered at the home of Marge Hanson
Sheehan and her husband Paul and poured
over the yearbook and pictures from 50 years
ago. What a nice group of people!
Row 1—Joe Hudetz, Pat Kelleher Hudetz, Jean
Parowski Sloan, Lynn Corbeil, Janet Mirabella Bruno,
Sharon Enders Wilhite, Lana Kubicz Haines, Terry
McCabe Apple, Maureen Crowley Rogina, Bob Delaney
• Row 2—Rich Brinn, Tom Otepka, Mike Felker, Cathy
Campagna Andorka, Frank Kaleba, Barb Wolff Urick,
Baron Westphal, Bill Welbourn, Donna Berkes Sable,
Ron Kuhn • Row 3—Bob Sullivan, Tom Sather, Tim
Tyre, Pat Kehoe, Jean Bythell Kaleba, Mike Kelly, Mary
Ann Tonner Calmeyn, Ray Stauber, Ralph Plummer
Attendees included Ray Bauer, Paul Brooks,
Ed Chalifoux, Donna Clark Friesel, Pat Deady
Arends, Colleen Drew Hattendorf, Trish
Feldman Andrae, Bill Hanley, Marge Hanson
Sheehan, Kathy Hetherington Blumberg,
Dee Huberts Swickert, Eleanor Lodeski Webb,
Bill Schaefer, Nora Scully, Flo Smyth Hoving,
and Rita Wilke.
Cl ass of 1970
40th Year Reunion
On October 9 the Class of 1970 celebrated
at Glen Oaks Country Club in Glen Ellyn,
IL. Classmates from as far away as Florida,
California, and Hawaii attended along with
15 spouses and enjoyed a delicious buffet
and full service bar. Tom Bednar, President
of SFHS, stopped by to discuss on-going
and future projects at the school. Music from
’65-’71 was played while yearbooks, scrapbooks,
and old copies of the Spartan newspaper
jogged some faded memories. Many stayed
until 1:15 a.m., laughing, talking, and saying
prolonged goodbyes. We look forward to
seeing everyone at the next reunion!
Left-right: Bill Schaefer, Alum Director Jess Stielow
‘00, Trish Feldman Andrae, Ray Bauer, Donna Clark
Friesel, Ed Chalifoux, Pat Deady Arends, Flo Smyth
Hoving (taller), Dee Huberts Swickert, Kathy
Hetherington Blumberg, Paul Brooks, Marge Hanson
Sheehan, Paul Sheehan, school President Tom Bednar
The class of 1965 celebrated October 15-17.
Classmates met Friday night at Pal Joey’s
and Saturday night at the school for dinner
and dancing. Students provided tours of the
school. Special guests included Sister Maria
Breier (Mother Maria Regina) and Sister
Rosemary Lynch (Mother Donald). The
weekend concluded with a Sunday brunch.
Everyone looks forward to the 50th in 2015!
Cl ass of 1985
25th Year Reunion
The Class of ’85 gathered on October 9
at Hawthorn’s Backyard in West Chicago,
owned by fellow alumnus Frank Indelli
’84. Many classmates showed up, including Patti Brooker Sunde from Georgia
and Elizabeth Eskra Schultz from Florida.
Left-right: Chris Scheckel-Dettmann, Bridget Hyde
Kaempfer, Tom Kearney, Patti Brooker Sunde,
Katheen Knox Heinz, Christine Brusca Hall ,
John O’Reilly, Elizabeth Eskra Schultz , Jennifer
Dolce Marston (All in attendance are not pictured.)
Cl ass of 1990
20th Year Reunion
Cl ass of 1965
45th Year Reunion
The Class of 1975 celebrated its 35th
reunion October 9-10 and had a great
time. Father Gerald Riva and Sister
Barbaralie Stiefermann attended. The
Class of ’75 raised a total of $17,075
for scholarships to SFHS and had an
inspiring and emotional tribute ceremony
dedicated to five deceased classmates:
Steve Gannon, Steve Grgula, Martin
Dreisilker, John Rueth, and Bill Miller.
Next reunion is the 50th in 2025.
Row 1—Judy Gits, Jim Nelson, Bob McGrath, Tom
Brown, Dave Gransee, Tom Golden, Bob Modaff, Mike
Schmidt, Dan Farrell • Row 2—Jim Annerino, Margaret Hennessy, Jack English, Tom White, Theresa Uttich,
Sue Slott, Mary Brzezinski, Lisa Nemeth, Doris Clark,
Mark Furgason, Kathyrn Shaw, Carol Armbrust, Sheila
Connelly, Sue Kartheiser • Row 3—Mark Hamilton,
Stel Pontikes, Fred Annerino, Jim Cashin, Jim Bollweg,
Patty Bruce, Terry O’Connell, John Heller, Jay Mulligan, Maureen Flis, Mike Sanders, Pat Bourke, Mike
Weisbrook, Dan Doody, Mary Hudetz, Tim Trainor
(Not pictured but present: Jim Sheppard)
The Class of 1990 had their 20th
Reunion on Saturday, October 9 at
Mullens. There was a lot of catching up
with fellow classmates. Many conversations
started with “Remember when...” and
ended with “I can’t believe we have kids
that old!” The time flew by way too fast.
Those who couldn’t make it were missed.
We hope to see everyone at the 25th!
9
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k e e p i n g u p w i t h t h e s pa r ta n s
1962
1963
1994
Michael A. Draut III ’62 is semiretired and lives with wife Patricia in
Budapest, Hungary.
Robert Hoppenstedt ’63 is proud
of this recent full-family gathering.
Tara Sweitzer ‘94 proudly married
Preston Jones in Denver, Colorado,
on Friday, October 8. Classmate
Erika Barth ’94 was also in attendance.
Tara and Preston reside in Sheridan,
Colorado.
1963
Several members of the Class of
’63 reunited at the home of Hilary
Harris ’63 and Randy Wilkin in
Michigan this past summer. Jim ’63
and Marianne Coyle ’63 Kehoe came
in from Mexico, where they currently
live, joining Tom ’63 and Maureen
Quinn ’63 Olsen. All have visited each
other at the Kehoe’s home in Mexico
as well. The Kehoes and Olsens both
were married in 1967 and celebrated
their 43-year marriages together!
1972
Jack Mulligan ’72 and wife
Carolyn celebrated their 32nd
wedding anniversary this year.
They reside in Thornton, CO
and have been in Colorado for
11 years. Son John is married
and is a police officer in Parachute,
CO. Daughter Kate just became
engaged to an Air Force Academy
grad, who is training to be a
navigator on B-52’s. Kate will be
graduating from the University of
Colorado-Denver next year, majoring
in Biology. Jack says “Hello!” to
all of his classmates from 1972.
1995
Jaime Sessions ’ 95 Kammerzell
is proud to announce the birth
of daughter Katherine Elizabeth
Kammerzell on August 18.
1983
William Kellens ’83 was recently
appointed to the Board of Directors
of the Chicago Baseball Museum.
Bill has been a lifelong fan of the
White Sox and baseball in general.
He is the great-great grandson of
Charles Comiskey, the founder of
the White Sox and the American
League. Bill is currently a member
of Chicago’s Pitch and Hit Club,
which was founded in 1942 by
his grandfather, John Rigney
(White Sox Pitcher ’37-’47 and
owner), and grandmother, Dorothy
Comiskey Rigney.
1990
Samantha and Don Fenton ’90
celebrated their 5th wedding
anniversary on November 3.
Son Donnie III turned two on
November 7.
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1996
On September 8, John Hagge ’96
professed temporary vows of stability,
conversion of life, and obedience in
the Benedictine community at Subiaco
Abbey in Subiaco, Arkansas. As part
of his profession, he received the name
Matthias. God willing, he will profess
solemn vows on September 8, 2013.
Focus on..
S t. F r a n c i s N o w !
Good
Citizens
Two St. Francis
students were recently
honored with Good
Citizen Awards.
These students were
nominated by the
faculty and selected
by the members of the
senior class. Kaitlyn
Vokaty will receive
the Daughters of the
American Revolution
Good Citizen Award.
She has also entered
the DAR scholarship
competition and will
be recognized by the
local chapter of the
DAR at their February
meeting. Tom Carani
was selected to receive
the Sons of the
American Revolution
Good Citizen Award.
Both students will
receive their certificates
at our Honors Night
Program in May.
Students of
the month
This year St. Francis
has been invited to
participate in the
Kane County Chronicle
Achievement Program.
Each month the
Chronicle invites high
schools in the Fox
Valley vicinity to submit
a Student of the Month,
who lives in their
readership area. The
student’s profile is then
featured in the Kane
County Chronicle.
So far, the following
St. Francis students
have been recognized:
Kyle Gannon in September, Ryan Shulski
in October, and Kayla
Stueland in November.
Joe Giamberdino will
be the featured student
in December.
12
w w w. s f h s n e t. o r g
Academic Achievers
We Appl aud Our AP Sch ol ars
a n d Ot h e r Ac a d e m i c s S ta r s
An amazing number of students at St. Francis High School—32—
have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional
achievement on Advanced Placement exams in Spring 2010. The
College Board’s Advanced Placement Program® (AP®) provides
motivated and academically prepared students with the opportunity
to take rigorous, college-level courses while still in high school and
to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful
performance on the AP Exams.
AP Scholars
These students have received grades of at least 3 or better on
three or more AP Exams.
Current Seniors—Morgan Banti, Kristin Barth, Kyle Bhatia, Grace
Hitzeman, Emily Karpinski, Jack Mordell, Jack Roback, and Ryan Shulski
Class of 2010—Steven Howe, Danielle Janota, William Kernan,
Shannon Koester, Connor Malloy, Martha Mcdonnell, Meghan Moore,
and Dean Quaranta
AP Scholars with Honor
These students have received an average grade of at least 3.25 on
all AP Exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more exams.
Current Seniors—Robert Miller and Patrick White
Class of 2010—Sara Francesconi, Carolyn Griffith, Molly Holinger,
Elizabeth Jensen, Kristen Kelsay, Katherine Parisi, James Pigott,
Adam Seraphin, and Daniel Sledz
AP Scholars with DISTINCTION
These students have received an average grade of 3.5 on all
AP Exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on five or more exams.
Current Senior—Kyle Gannon
Class of 2010—Andrew Caron, Calvin King, Daniel McCarthy,
and James Olofson
Other Academic Stars
Congratulations to the six seniors who were recently named as
Commended Students in the National Merit Scholarship Program.
Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more
than 1.5 million students who entered the 2011 competition by taking
the 2009 PSAT test. Our Commended Students for the Class of 2011
are Morgan Banti, Kyle Bhatia, Sarah Cayer, Luke Halleran,
Grace Hitzeman, and Sarah Holsinger.
Morgan Banti has been selected as a Scholar in the 2010-2011
National Hispanic Recognition Program. The NHRP recognizes nearly
5,000 students selected from a pool of 200,000 students who took
the 2009 PSAT/NMSQT and identified themselves as Hispanic/Latino.
We congratulate Morgan on her success.
New
Faculty
and Staff
U p o n t h e l i g h t e d s ta g e
St. Fr ancis Theatrical Spartans Have Audiences
rolling in l aughter with the production of the
English Farce, tom jones.
St. Francis Theatrical Spartans take the stage again!
On the first weekend in November, their production
of Tom Jones made audience members of all ages
roll in laughter. Director James C. Wall is in his
9th year in theatre at St. Francis High School, his
39th year in the classroom. He has been active in
Chicago-area theatre for more than 25 years. His
plays have won national playwriting awards and
have been produced all over the U. S. A. and Canada. Lauren Ladley, Producer/Assistant Director,
is honored to have worked on Tom Jones. Nothing
gives her more joy than directing and helping students grow in their talent and love of theatre. This
school year will be Ms. Ladley’s fifth year in the
classroom. Thank you for all of the support!
Megan Potokar teaches
Spanish I and II and
Honors Spanish II.
She is also an assistant
girls’ tennis coach. She
received her BA from
Marquette University.
Cast & Crew
Production Staff
Director: Mr. James C. Wall
Assistant Director: Ms. Lauren Ladley ’02
Assistant Student Director: Ms. Catherine
Zimmerman
Technical Director: Ms. Carolyn Brady-Riley
Producer: Ms. Lauren Ladley ’02
Set Design: Mr. John Schuller & Mr. James
C. Wall
Set Construction: Mr. John Schuller
Program Design: Mrs. Kate Doane ’95
Graphic Design: Mrs. Kate Doane ’95
Costume Design: Broadway Costumes and
Mrs. Jeanne Wall
Cast
St. Fr ancis Thespian
Goes to State!
St. Francis High School student Julia Murphy
has been chosen for the cast of Into the Woods,
the Illinois Theatre Association’s 2011 All-State
production of the Tony Award winning musical
by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine.
The All-State production is one of the many
events at the 36th Annual Illinois High School
Theatre Festival, the largest high school festival
in the United States. The show will be performed
on January 7 and 8, 2011, at the University of
Illinois—Champaign/Urbana. The All-State
festival brings together a company of students
and staff from all areas of Illinois. The cast,
crew, and orchestra of seventy-one students
are comprised of the brightest stars in the state!
It is quite an honor for St. Francis’s theatre
and music program to be included in this
great production.
Max Estes teaches
Speech, Introduction to
Computers, and Business
Communications. He is
also an assistant coach
for both football and
wrestling. He received
his BS from Eastern
Illinois University.
Tom Jones: Patrick Bourne
Sophia Western: Allison Slattery
Partridge: Kevin Lusk
Jenny Jones/Mrs. Waters: Dylan Zito
Mr. Western: Ray Rivera/Nick Gedvilas
Ms. Western: Jackie Martine
Justice Dowling: Keller Dellinger
Honour: Meg Jensen
Squire Alworthy: Marc Barrowclift
Harriet Fitzpatrick: Hannah Gannon
Blifil: Dan Harmon
Mrs. Whitefield: Kate Jenkins/Meg Griffith
Mr. Fitzpatrick: Cody Jensen/Jake Sheehan
Lady Bellaston: Lydia Wassman
Reverend Thwackum: Ryan Hamman
Mr. Square: Chris Shearer
Bridget Alworthy: Ellie Clare
Highwayman: Mike Godinez
Deborah: Adrienne Vanco
Doctor: Mike Paolella
Susan: Hannah Star
Constable: Mike Workman
Nancy: Erin Whitington
Captain Blifil: Alex Kwiatkowski
Paul Milano ‘71 is
the new Director of
Development and
Alumni Relations. He
also oversees Student
Recruitment and
Communications.
He received his BA
from DePaul University.
Emlyn Bertsche is the
new Development
Information Manager.
She received her BA
from the University
of Illinois at Chicgo.
Athletic Director Paul
Linden was pleased to
announce the hiring of
Brittany Borgeson as the
first head girls’ lacrosse
coach at St. Francis. In
2005 Brittany served
as the first head girls’
coach at her alma mater,
Naperville North High.
She stayed in that role
for three years before
stepping aside to
concentrate on her
master’s degree in
Christian Formation and
Ministry and work as a
youth minister in Glen
Ellyn. She played lacrosse
collegiately at Calvin
College and is still
actively participating
on teams for Wheaton
College and Lakeshore
Lacrosse.
St. Francis H. S.
welcomes our new
staff members
(L-R) Paul Milano ’71,
Emily Bertsche,
Megan Potokar,
and Max Estes
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Focus on..
F a l l ATh l e t i c s
The faculty, staff, and parents are
proud of our athletes’ success and
sportsm anship. Go spartans!
GIRLs’ Swim Tea m
The Girls’ Swim Team defeated
twelve teams this season despite
having an incomplete roster.
Leading the charge was junior
Captain Alex Niemi and freshman
Marie Bliss. The relay team
of Niemi, Bliss, Fisher, and
Hannon consistently out-touched
opponents and narrowly missed
setting a couple of meet records.
The Spartans have a young team
and are looking forward to the
continued development of Bailey
Stubben and underclassmen
Hilger, Ryan, Weizeorick,
and Carragher.
Dance Tea m
The Dance Team enjoyed
performing at home football games
this fall season and completed
their first competition on Sunday,
November 7. The Spartanettes
finished 2nd in both the Open
Dance and Lyrical categories with
high hopes for the upcoming
competition in December.
The team is looking forward
to the fun basketball performances
and future competitions. This
year the team is blessed with
four exceptional senior captains:
Nicoletta Fiodirosa, Emily Parenti,
Charissa Valdez, and Courtney
Windisch. These young ladies have
brought amazing leadership and
dance ability to the team. We look
forward to a successful year with
the hope of qualifying for the State
Championship later this winter.
FOOTBALL
2010 was a historic year for St. Francis Football.
Never before had St. Francis qualified for the
playoffs three years in a row! With the playoffs
only having begun in 1973, this was a tremendous
accomplishment for this group of seniors.
Coach Greg Purnell completed his fourth year
with St. Francis, providing the continuity that
is always welcome in team sports leadership.
Girls’ CROSS COUNTRY
Girls’ Cross Country won the Suburban
Christian Championship Race, winning the
conference title for the 10th year in a row. The
team won the Regional Championship, was
4th in the Sectional Championship, and won
7th place at the State Finals on November 6.
Seven runners ran the championship race at the
State Finals: Kelly McShea, Meghan McShea,
Kate Roback, Jenna DiValerio, Bridget Reczek,
Joelle Nelson, and Ann Kolker. Five varsity
runners earned All-Conference honors: Kelly
McShea, Meghan McShea, Kate Roback, Jenna
DiValerio, and Bridget Reczek. Kelly McShea
also earned All-State honors by placing 5th
in the State Final race and is a candidate for
the All-Area team. Alyssa Robinson, Maggie
O’Hare, and Lauren Callahan also were strong
varsity runners. This year Joelle Nelson and
Kelly McShea were team captains, and Courtney
Wright was the team manager. The team placed
in the top three in all seven of their major
invitational meets, winning three. The MVP
Award went to Kelly McShea; Most Improved,
to Bridget Reczek and Ann Kolker, while the
Spartan Award went to Joelle Nelson. The JV
team placed 1st in four major invitational meets
and 2nd in the other two. Amanda Schmitt,
Tessa McKenna, Emma Fickle, Christina Ortiz,
Lisa Neary, and Mairead McGuire ran in the
JV meets. Dani Heitz, Lilly Spatz, Anna Spatz,
Rosario Zavala, Melissa Marks, Maria Penas,
Callie Zimmerman, Delany Carani, Alex Fisher,
and Allie Kinzler had successful seasons as well.
Intent
Letters of
Four St. Francis students have recently signed
national Letters of Intent. Congratulations to
all of our Spartan athletes!
(L to R)
Kelly Reinke (Girls’ Volleyball) Cornell University
Meg Vonderhaar (Girls’ Volleyball) Notre Dame
Kayla Stueland (Girls’ Golf) U. of I.–Chicago
(Not Pictured)
Eric Stout (Baseball) Butler University
14
w w w. s f h s n e t. o r g
Coach Taj Jackson led the freshman team of
41 players to a 9-4-1 record. The sophmore
team of 37 players had another winning season
under former parent Pat Rozmanoski, ending
the season 6-3.
The Varsity continued its winning ways with
43 players (four being sophomore starters).
The third consecutive winning season and
playoff team were led by a group of seniors
who far surpassed expectations. Ben Trimble was
the team’s leading rusher, followed closely by
Bob Miller, who scored 16 touchdowns. Colin
O’Donnell started both as a defensive back and
a wing back and was chosen All-Conference,
along with Jack Porter, Miller, and Nick Pfeiffer.
Many other seniors played major roles in the
team’s improvement; Jack Murphy, Brian Herr,
Kevin Walsh, Mike Stolte, and Mike Yanan all
helped carry the load for the young team. The
seniors helped pass on a tradition of building
a strong foundation for a program that is rapidly
becoming competitive and well-respected in
the Western suburbs.
Girls’ Tennis
BOYS’ GOLF
After having their six-year Conference
Championship streak ended last year (by only
one point!), the Girls’ Tennis Team recaptured
it again in 2010! With the newly-enlarged
Suburban Christian Conference, it proved to be
a real challenge. Coming in #1 in Conference
were Alex Moresco and Danielle Krueger at
2nd Doubles and Kit McDonnell and Courtney
Pellettieri at 3rd Doubles. The Tennis Spartans
also captured the I.M.S.A. Quad trophy this
year for the first time!
The freshman/sophmore Boys’ Golf Team
finished 7-4 and 2nd in the Conference. The
varsity team finished the season 8-4, 2nd at
the Glen Oak Invitational, 3rd at the Wheaton
Cup, 3rd at Brad Fowler, 3rd at the Bloomington
Invitational, 2nd at the ACC Invitational,
2nd in the Conference Tournament, and
1st in the State Regionals. Mike Melka was
a State Tournament Finals qualifier.
The senior class led the team with spirit,
enthusiasm, and talent! Winning the special
varsity honors this year were Rookie of the
Year, Claire Eckert; Spartan Award Winner,
Tara Cunningham; Spirit and Pride Winner,
Haley Henseler; Most Improved Player,
Lauren Castronovo; and Most Valuable Player,
Emily Jagielo.
Boys’ Cross Country was 2nd in the Suburban
Christian Conference Championship race after
being seeded 5th. They won 2nd place in the
Regional Championship and seventh in the
Sectional Championship, after being seeded
13th and missed qualifying for the State Final
meet by just a few points. Joe Giamberdino
qualified for the State Finals in Peoria.
He earned All-State honors by placing 9th
and is also a candidate for the All-Area team.
Joe Giamberdino and Matt Denny were
All-Conference. Trevor Holzman, Anthony
Calderone, Robert Delfin, John Lyons, Ryan
Shulski, Ryan McKennna, Josh Penas, and
Mike Kwiatkowski all ran well on the varsity
team. Joe Giamberdino and Trevor Holzman
were team captains. The MVP award went
to Joe Giamberdino and Most Improved, to
Anthony Calderone and Robert Delfin, while
the Spartan Award went to Trevor Holzman.
The freshman/sophmore team placed 4th or
higher in all of their major invitational meets.
Scott Stiff, Mike Deaton, Nick Vilimek, Dan
Reczek, and Nick Kolker ran the majority of
the freshman/sophmore invitational meets.
Boys’ Cross Country
Girls’ Volleyball
Girls’ Volleyball enjoyed another stellar season.
All three teams won the Suburban Christian
Conference titles.
The freshmen sported a 30-5 record and
won the Lisle Invitational. First year coach
Steve Dowjotas was pleased with the team’s
development—on and off the court.
The sophomores, coached by Amanda
DeGrandis ’03, had a season high 31 wins
with only 4 losses. They won the prestigious
Jacksonville Tournament and ended their season
with a championship at the St. Charles East
Tournament. One highlight of their season
was beating Mother McAuley’s JV.
The varsity team was paced by six seniors:
Lauren Duncan, Theresa Katarzynski,
Sarah Dubiel, and tri-captains Gina Madonia,
Kelly Reinke, and Meg Vonderhaar. Fouryear starter Vonderhaar was Player of the Year
in the Conference and in the Daily Herald.
Madonia, Reinke and junior Daiva Wise were
All-Conference. Juniors completing the team
were Taylor Reckards, Maddie Defino, Grace
Churny, Hally Gable, and Carley Warner.
Kiley Read was this year’s manager. The team
won a Regional Championship for the 21st
consecutive year and was a 30-game winner for
the 25th consecutive year.
Girls’ Golf
Members of the Girls’ Golf Team included
Kelsey Kerr, Grace Pinns, Kayla Stuleand,
Meg Van Thournout, Caroline French, Sarah
Pinns, Lexi Bolin, Christina Firodirosa, and
Kat Kuhn. Highlights from the year include a
2nd place finish at both the Rock Falls & York
invitationals in August and a 4th place finish
at the St. Charles East Regional in October.
The team had an overall record of 4-2 in dual
matches. Junior Meg Van Thournout advanced
to the Sectional and missed qualifying for the
State Tournament by two strokes. She was
named to the Kane County Chronicle’s All-Area
Girls Golf 2nd Team. Senior Kayla Stuleand, a
three time State qualifier and a member of the
Kane County Chronicle’s All-Area Girls’ Golf
team, completed her spectacular golf career
by placing 17th at the State Tournament at
Hickory Point Golf Course in Forsyth, IL
(As a sophomore, she finished 7th, and as a
junior, she finished 15th.).
CHEER
The Sophomore Football
Cheer Team had the pleasure
of several returning members
this year, as well as some
new and talented faces. The
team worked hard during the
summer; they were involved
in tumbling and stunting
lessons at Cheer Illinois
Athletics, along with the
varsity team. The majority
of the team also went to
SuperCDA Camp, and
three members of the team
competed for “Best of the
Best.” The girls also helped
make Homecoming, “Paint
the Stands Pink” Night,
and Senior Night a complete
success. It was a great season!
The Varsity Football Cheer
Team worked hard this
summer with practices 2-3
times a week at Hubble. In
addition, they took private
team stunting and tumbling
classes at Cheer Illinois
Athletics. The team also
went to SuperCDA Camp
and had a blast learning new
dances, routines, and stunt
sequences to use throughout
the year. The varsity team
voted and named two senior
captains and one junior
captain, who have done a
great job keeping everyone
focused and organized.
With donations from some
very generous parents, the
team was able to purchase
new uniforms this year. The
Homecoming routine, as well
as the “Blacklight” routine,
was a big success. The varsity
team was excited to help
celebrate “School Spirit Day,”
“Paint the Stands Pink”
Night, and Senior Night. The
entire squad did a great job
supporting the sports teams
this fall. Football season flew
by; they are all sad to see it
come to an end but cannot
wait for next year!
15
St. Francis High School
College Preparatory
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
2130 West Roosevelt Road
Wheaton, IL 60187
(630) 668-5800
PAID
Carol Stream, IL
Permit No. 6053
www.sfhsnet.org
2 011 Ca l e n d A r
of alumni events
January
8 Entrance Exam
12 Alumni Board Meeting
14 Pre-Auction
Spaghetti Dinner
21 Daddy-Daughter
Dance
23 Mother-Son Mass
and Brunch
!
Save the date
February
9 Alumni Board Meeting
27 Mass and Registration
Plan to
attend our
Mardi Gras
Celebration
for the Class of 2015
March
5 Annual Auction
TBA Spring Muscial
April
7 Spartan Initiation
Alumni
I n f o r m at i o n
De v el o p men t Off ice
Paul Milano ’71
Meg Olsen
Greg Purnell
Debbie Quirk
Emlyn Bertsche
Please direct questions or comments
regarding the FOCUS magazine to:
Find us Online
!
Go to www.sfhsnet.org
and click on the “ALUMNI” link.
Also look for us on Facebook!
Search “St. Francis High School
Alumni, Wheaton, IL.”
ch 5, 2011
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Paul Milano ‘71
Director of Development & Alumni Relations
[email protected]
Photos courtesy of Mark McCleary
(630) 668-5800, ext. 1144
F o r m o r e n e w s ab o u t St . F r a n c i s a n d a l u m n i ,
v i s i t o u r w e b s i t e at w w w . sf h s n e t . o r g