MATTERS MARIAN - Marian Catholic High School

MARIAN
Matters
A Newsletter for Marian Catholic Alumni, Parents and Friends. . . Because Marian Catholic Really Does Matter
FALL 2011
2012 Hall of fame
Celebration announCed
february 16, 2012, at olympia fields Country Club
The Marian Catholic High School community will celebrate the
achievements of its five remarkable Hall of Fame Awardees on
Thursday, February 16, 2012 at Olympia Fields Country Club.
The 2012 Marian Catholic High School Hall of Fame Awards
will honor the accomplishments and endeavors of Alumni of the
Year, Dennis A. Cortes ’82 and Kristin Depeder Cortes ’82;
Athlete of the Year, James Poynton ’85; Fine Arts Distinguished
Achievement, Ann Healey Bowen ’87; Spirit of Marian, Judith
Welsh ’68; and Lifetime Achievement, Rev. William O’Mara.
Mr. Martin’s senior English class utilizes the newly remodeled Computer Lab.
The Hall of Fame event honors alumni, parents, faculty and
friends of Marian Catholic who have distinguished themselves in
their chosen field and have exemplified the Dominican traditions
of unselfish service to others. Established in 1994 to honor those
graduates and friends of Marian who have embodied and upheld
the school’s motto “Teaching Scholars with a Soul,” this year’s
class of inductees recognizes those who have personified the Marian
spirit and celebrates their contributions to their respective fields,
communities, church, or within the Marian Catholic community.
Continued on page 2
Technology/Media Center
• Opens for Students •
From third hall, it looks like an Apple store;
clean, sleek, modern, and full of the latest
computer equipment. The all-glass entry to the
recently renovated Technology/Media Center
offers an inviting space including rows and rows
of new workstations, offices for technology staff,
and access to the Media Center where Video
Editing and Graphic Arts are taught.
The Marian Catholic community made a
commitment to enhance not only the physical
space of the Computer Lab, but provide
additional PC’s, MAC’s and software programs
to ensure students and staff alike have access to
the latest technology.
Continued on page 5

ALUMNI OF THE YEAR
HALL OF FAME
Dennis A. Cortes ’82
Managing Director of the Global
Technical Strategy Group –
Cantor Fitzgerald
Kristin Depeder Cortes ’82
Co-founder and Executive Director -
Current Links in Education
This award honors an alumna/alumnus
who has contributed outstanding and
distinguished service in his/her chosen
profession and who reflects honorably
on Marian Catholic High School..
Beyond the books, band and friends that their years at Marian
Catholic presented them, Dennis Cortes ’82 and Kristin Depeder
Cortes ’82 graduated from Marian with life partners. For 25 years, the
pair has led exemplary lives both as individuals and as a couple with
entrepreneurial spirits.
“Being married to Dennis has been the biggest, most beautiful thing
in my life which would not have happened had I not gone to Marian
where we started dating as juniors in high school,” said Kristin. “I think
Marian was part of our foundation, along with our family who cared
enough about us to give the best opportunity.”
This year’s Alumni of the Year have been successful, not only
professionally, but also in sharing their Catholic faith.
“As I entered into adulthood, I realized that the guidance and care I
received from Marian are gifts that God calls on me to share with others.
Through prayer, listening to others and reflecting on events in our world, I
attempt to discern what needs God wants our family to address, and how to
best serve those needs,” said Dennis, Trader/Market Analyst and Managing
Director of the Global Technical Strategy Group for Cantor Fitzgerald.
Dennis leads the group provides market forecasts to the world’s
largest financial institutions in North America, Europe and Asia. As
Managing Director of the group, Dennis manages the group’s research
and development, trading and global marketing.
Dennis co-founded the Leadership Training Program that teaches
young men from fourth grade through twelfth grade how to recognize,
develop and practice virtues rooted in Christian teaching. The program
is based on Catholic teachings and educates grade school and high
school students from the communities surrounding Marian in Catholic
virtues and leadership skills.
Together, Dennis and Kris also co-founded “Virtue in Action” and
“Character Action Media” – educational non-profits that use current
events and issues to help students understand the virtues and inspire
them to live out the virtues. The program is designed for secular school
systems, and also has a sister program called “Faith in Action” used in
Catholic schools and religious education programs.
“Ten to 15 years ago, we both thought about how we can make our
country a better place and if our county falls it won’t be from outside,
but from within and from a lack of virtues…This is our passion because
we love our country so much,” Kris said.
Elements of the programs can be traced back to their days at Marian
where Mr. Leo Cleary, then history teacher, used current events to drive
home a point, or how Mr. Greg Bimm, band director, created leaders
among the band members, Dennis said.
Over the years, thousands of students in North America have been
touched by the programs produced by the Cortes couple.
“They are very good examples of what we want our children to be,”
said friend and fellow Infant Jesus of Prague parishioner, Jane Peabody.
“When I was sending my kids off to Marian, I was looking for a place
where I would feel confident in the educational program, and to
raise my children in a Christian environment so when they are adults
themselves they will be good Christian citizens. I can’t think of a couple
that emulates that more than Kris and Dennis. The way they work
together brings light to the fact that marriage and kids in God’s eye is a
blessed sacrament.”
A recent example of their charitable work as a family is assisting active
2
duty military service members, veterans and their families with critical
and unmet needs through a national charity, USA Cares. Dennis is a
member of the board of directors, their eldest son Alex has helped in
establishing relationships with major corporations, their son Colin has
established “Hoyas for Troops” at Georgetown University, and all of the
children assist with various fundraising activities. Kris and Dennis have
seen that by involving their children in charitable pursuits, they have
helped them to grow in their Catholic faith and as citizens.
Dennis and Kris have many family members who also attended
Marian Catholic. Dennis’s five siblings all graduated from Marian:
Carla Cortes ’81, Mary Cortes Benjamin ’84, Carmen Cortes
Quinn ’85, Steve Cortes ’90, and Anita Cortes ’95, as well as two
nieces. Kristin’s siblings who graduated from Marian: Suzanne Depeder ’80
and Marybeth Depeder Schwieters ’90 as well as one niece.
The couple are active members of Infant Jesus of Prague Catholic
Church in Flossmoor, where they have been involved with marriage
preparation, as high school youth group facilitators, and with Baptism
preparation. They live in Flossmoor with their children Alex, Colin,
Joey, Christina, and Dominic.
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
James Poynton ’85
MCHS Offensive Lineman -
All-Area, All-Conference;
1986 Iowa Rose Bowl Team
Owner/Director of Sales -
SRC Medical / MJP Medical Device
Management Group
This award honors the accomplishments
of an alumna/alumnus or staff member
who has participated in the Marian
Catholic High School Athletic Program
and has achieved a high level of recognition
in athletics, either professionally,
collegiately, or at Marian.
Growing up in Glenwood with a sister and two brothers, the biggest
influence on the young life of James Poynton ’85 was by far the
guidance and encouragement of his mother, Marney, who raised her
family as a single parent.
As a young athlete, Jim attended Brookwood Jr. High School and the
Religious Education Program at St. Kieran Catholic School, where he
played football for the parish school. It was then that Poynton started
hearing about a different school, Marian Catholic. Yet it was questionable
where he would attend high school. He had uncles in Chicago who joked
that he should attend high school at one of the city Catholic schools.
A standout football player in junior high, the Chicago Catholic League
started recruiting him early, but Marian Catholic kept ringing in his ear.
“All I heard about was the city Catholic schools and I just didn’t want
to go to any of them. Marian Catholic is right here. My coaches at St.
Kieran, Pete Gergel and Leo Lindbloom, became the focal points in my
life and they were involved at Marian. That’s when I started to see that
there was something different,” he said.
A visit to Marian with his mother, and a meet and greet with “bigger
than life” Coach Dave Mattio ’66, sealed the deal and Poynton and his
family never looked back.
“My mother always said she never had to worry about her kids
straying off the right path, because Coach Mattio would make sure we
never would,” Poynton said. An offensive lineman, Poynton played
football all four years at Marian. He was a varsity starter for three years,
named an All-Star player, and was named to All-Conference selections in
1983 and 1984.
As a senior, Mattio used Jim’s skills in the defensive line-up.
“He could change a ball game by himself just by his mere presence,
and he did that often,” Mattio said.
The coach recalled a game against Thornwood where Poynton played
both offense and defense.
“He chased the Thornwood quarterback all the way to the Interstate
and was largely responsible for our 34 to 3 victory. They couldn’t contain

HALL OF FAME
him as a defensive player or as an offensive blocker, and we were able to
move the football. Nobody could contain him as blocker,” Mattio said.
In Poynton’s senior year the team was 9 and 2, and lost in second
round of the playoffs.
His accomplishments at Marian Catholic were noticed by colleges,
leading to offers of full scholarships at the University of Iowa, Ohio
State University, Penn State, and the University of Notre Dame. He
selected Iowa to play under Coach Hayden Fry.
“My mom fell in love with him and I did too,” Poynton said.
With that decision he was able to play in the Holiday Bowl, the Rose
Bowl, and the Peach Bowl.
After graduation, he came back home for a year, coached for a while
at Marian, then returned to Iowa in 1991 when he was named Assistant
Athletic Coach/Football Offensive Line and Strength Coach. He helped the
team advance to the Alamo Bowl and the Sun Bowl. In 1994, he was named
the University Head Athletic Coach/Strength and Conditioning Coach at
Northern Illinois University, where he remained for the next two years.
“He was always very focused and an over achiever. He is gifted, yet
humble about his ability. And he fit in with all the players he played
with. He’s pretty successful on and off the field,” Mattio said.
Today, Poynton is owner and Director of Sales of SRC Medical /
MJP Medical Device Management Group, which focuses on lowering
the cost of healthcare for surgical implants. He and his wife Mary live in
Tinley Park with their children Seamus, Ronan and Conlan.
Poynton has three siblings who also graduated from Marian: Meg
Poynton Hryn ’84, Tom Poynton ’88, and Tim Poynton ’91.
FINE ARTS DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT
Ann Healey Bowen ’87
General Manager,
Madison Symphony Orchestra,
Madison, Wisconsin
This award honors the achievements of
an alumna/alumnus or staff member in
the Fine Arts – drama, art, music, broadcasting
and choral. A nominee should
have achieved a high level of recognition
in his/her particular field.
Ann Healey Bowen ’87 would be the first to say that she is an
average musician, but one who loves music. Yet, as a direct result of a
passion she discovered at Marian Catholic, Bowen helps make music
possible for thousands. As General Manager of the Madison Symphony
Orchestra, Bowen has the privilege of working with and experiencing the
artistry of some of the world’s great musicians.
“Most people think of artists as those who perform. But there are
those who make the art happen. Ann is one of those people,” said friend
Claudine LePenske ’87.
As a cornet and trumpet player at Marian Catholic, Bowen thrived in
the atmosphere of the band program under director Greg Bimm.
“I very much enjoyed my time at Marian, thanks largely to the family
that I found in the band program. I forged deep friendships – the kind
built when striving for a shared goal, an early recognition that your
performance/attitude/behavior influences the larger group has been
‘instrumental’ in my approach to life,” Bowen said.
However, she knew that after graduating from Marian that she was
not going to continue playing the trumpet.
“I was a really solid third chair trumpet player, but that’s okay because
you need the bottom too. And if I had been a solo artist, I would not
have experienced the same things; working with everybody, the ensemble
to produce that final product. That sort of experience stays with you. If I
was going to go off and be a solo trumpet player, it wouldn’t have meant
as much,” she said.
She attended John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio and studied
Economics, but something was missing, she said, until she learned about
3
arts administration and discovered her niche.
“Until that point, that little piece of my life had gotten put away.
It was a revelation to me that there was a business aspect. It was really
perfect. I haven’t looked back since. It was a great feeling,” she said.
She changed course and went to the University of Wisconsin-
Madison where she earned a Master of Arts in Business.
Today, as General Manager of the Madison Symphony Orchestra,
Ann manages orchestra operations, artistic personnel, and financial
management of the fast-growing regional orchestra, a position she has held
since 1997. Responsible for coordinating all aspects of concert production,
she also contracts artists for subscription concert series and special events.
“Ann has been a remarkable, unusual, and beloved colleague, adored by
the members of the orchestra and staff, as well as our board of directors,”
said John DeMain, Music Director, Madison Symphony Orchestra. “She is
an incredible multi-tasker, able to organize and handle an immense amount
of work. She personally supervises the set up for every rehearsal and deals
with the needs of some 100 plus musicians in a truly remarkable way.”
Previously, she was the Orchestra Manager at Honolulu/Hawaii
Symphony Orchestra from 1994 to 1997, and was Assistant Manager of
the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra from 1993 to 1994.
“I watched Ann as she turned her love for music and her exceptional
mind into her life’s passion of being the managing wizard behind
professional symphonic orchestras. She found a way to combine her
loves and passions on both sides of her brain. Ann helps make art
happen every day,” LePenske said.
Ann and her husband, William, and daughter, Kate, live in Madison,
Wisconsin where they attend Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.
Ann has three siblings who also graduated from Marian: Tom
Healey ’81, Pat Healey ’82, and Kate Healey Snedeker ’85.
SPIRIT OF MARIAN
Judith Welsh ’68
Retired, Public Service
Administrator, Illinois Department
of Corrections
This award honors an alumna/alumnus,
staff member or friend of Marian, who
best exemplifies the Dominican traditions
of unselfish service to others and
outstanding contribution to Marian, his/
her community, or church.
From the time she graduated to the present day, Judith Welsh ’68
has maintained a strong and unique bond with Marian Catholic and her
graduating class.
“For our class, she is Marian’s number one ambassador,” said Pam
Petrarca McSherry ’68. “For our 40-year class reunion, I had the
opportunity to go for a short walk of the halls with Judy and was struck
by how many of the current staff knew her. This is an indication that
Judy’s connection to Marian has not been fleeting, but is constant.
“She also provides great comfort for the Marian family as she gives
out hugs at both our classmates’ and parents’ wakes, and has an uncanny
knowledge of the little things going on in our lives. This all makes us
feel loved and appreciated – thanks to Judy. Judy has and always will be
connected to Marian,” McSherry said.
In the 1990’s, a group of alumni expanded the Alumni Association
from grass root efforts in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Welsh and others started
with Homecoming gatherings, put together by-laws and, in 1992, Welsh
became the first formalized Alumni Association President, a role she held
from 1992 to 1994.
Welsh has served Marian by being involved with the following:
Partnership 2000 Capital Campaign Student Life Task Team, The
Courage to Lead Long-Range Planning Committee, Alumni Focus
Group Member, First Annual Homecoming Dinner Dance Committee,
MCHS 50th Anniversary Committee and was a member of all six of her

HALL OF FAME
Reunion Committees.
Welsh worked on a small committee that organized the Henry
Wilson ’68 Memorial Golf Outing which raised money in Henry’s name
to be donated to The American Lung Association.
She also worked with a small group of her classmates to plant a tree in
memory of her classmate, Gail Amos ’68, which included a blessing and
a reception.
“She loves Marian. She loves people and getting together and she loves
organizing,” said her friend since the fifth grade, Arla Day Blocker ’68.
With a set of skills that would lead to success in any career,
Judith Welsh ’68 chose to dedicate most of her adult life to the
population at Stateville Correctional Center in Joliet where she served
in prison administration.
“While most of us are likely to turn our backs on hardened criminals,
Judy went to work each day, year in and year out, as she worked toward
practical and humane solutions in our criminal justice system with
courage and compassion,” McSherry said.
After she graduated from Marian, Welsh attended Marquette University
and earned a degree in history and secondary education in 1972. After
serving as a substitute teacher in the south suburbs and as a private tutor for
several years, she began a career as an educator with the Illinois Department
of Corrections at the Stateville Correctional Center in 1980. She eventually
became a Public Service Administrator at the facility before retiring in 2003.
Since high school, she has also been associated with the family business, the
Dairy Queen in Homewood, founded by her father, Art.
“Marian provided me with an academic foundation that allowed me
to succeed in college and in my career. It gave me lifelong friendships
that began in the halls and classrooms. The atmosphere at MCHS
fostered a beautiful spirit within students. Some little piece of it lingers
within you, calling you to positive action and to return,” Welsh said.
In 2010, Welsh joined the school community as a volunteer, using
her educational background to help tutor MCHS students.
“She has spent the last year tutoring MCHS students, giving one-onone
attention, guiding them through difficult material and leading them
to success,” said Dr. Shirley Morris, Vice Principal of Academics.
Over the years she has committed her time, treasure and talent to her
parents, siblings, friends, community and the family at Marian Catholic
High School. She never seeks attention, nor does she make a lot of noise
about her tireless efforts.
“Her generosity is performed quietly as she prefers the stories remain
about the people she helped – not about her sacrifice. She has remained
loyal to her Marian Catholic family and her Catholic faith,” McSherry said.
Marian Catholic has been a big part of the lives of Judy and her
family. Her five siblings all graduated from Marian: Michael Welsh ’66,
Tom Welsh ’71, Kevin Welsh ’77, Patty Welsh ’82 and Cathy Welsh
Shaw ’85, as well as two nieces and four nephews.
“The atmosphere at Marian Catholic fosters a beautiful spirit within
students and a little piece of it lingers within you, calling you to positive
action and to return,” Welsh said. Together the family established The
Arthur and LaVerne Welsh Scholarship which has evolved from this
spirit.
Welsh lives in Homewood and is a member of St. Joseph Parish.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Rev. William O’Mara
MCHS Chaplain
Father O’Mara arrived at Marian Catholic
eight years ago and quickly became a favorite
among students and parents, attending athletic
events, concerts, plays and retreats. A retiree from
ministry, he jumped in with both feet and became
an integral member of the school community. His
homilies at school liturgies frequently begin with a
story and integrate humorous views, bringing the
scriptures home to students. His compassion and
deep faith have consoled families in death and
encouraged students in times of decision. Marian
Catholic is blessed to have such a wonderful priest
and brother within our school community.
-Sister Kathleen Anne Tait, O.P., Principal
4
Rev. William O’Mara, the founding pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton
Catholic Church in Orland Hills, IL, retired in 2003 and was assisting
with Masses at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Chicago Heights,
considering what he wanted to do to keep himself busy.
He called Sr. Mary Paul McCaughey, O.P., then President of Marian
Catholic High School, and asked her if she would be interested in him
helping at the school as chaplain.
“She practically went through the phone and grabbed me. And now
I am in my eighth year here,” Father O’Mara recalled with a laugh.
“Many of my friends think I am crazy being a chaplain of a high school
in my retirement, but high school has been my life.”
Father O’Mara’s enthusiasm and passion for campus ministry is
evident in everything he does and he continues to be a shepherd to all
he meets.
He goes out of his way to be available to the students, to get young
people engaged in ministry, and attends nearly every men’s and women’s
Kairos retreat scheduled throughout the school year. It is not unusual to
see him guest speaking in a religion or English class; to see him sitting
in the stands of nearly every school activity – whether it be sports,
forensics, theatre, music, or art exhibits. Father O’Mara will either travel
with the band to a competition to say Mass with them, or celebrate Mass
at Marian upon their return.
“There are days when his office is a revolving door of students,
faculty and staff who just need someone to talk to – he is always
available. When you are with Father Bill, you know you are being heard,
respected, and encouraged. The role he has assumed has been much
larger than just chaplain,” said Heather Gordon, Assistant Director of
Campus Ministry.
While some may find working with high school students a challenge,
Father O’Mara said he thrives on it.
“I think it’s life giving. I’m always amazed at the kids. Maybe this
generation isn’t great at going to church, but on the other hand, they are
very involved in service both in and outside of school. I think they are
more service-oriented,” he said.
These last eight years are not the only years he spent at Marian.
Father O’Mara was ordained in the Archdiocese of Chicago in 1958,
the same year that Marian Catholic welcomed her first class. He was
assigned to Infant Jesus of Prague Parish in Flossmoor, and came to
MCHS to help out with Masses, confessions, and visit the classes once
in a while to answer questions.
He stayed at IJP for six years, then in 1964 taught theology and was
Athletic Director at Quigley Seminary South. During the summers,
he attended the University of San Francisco, and eventually received
a Masters in Religious Studies. In 1975, he moved to Tampa, Florida
and taught at Jesuit High School while studying for his doctorate in
education in South Florida. He was named Principal of Bishop Thomas
K. Gorman High School in Tyler, Texas in 1977, and remained there
until 1985 when he took a sabbatical year at Jesuit School of Theology
at Berkeley, California.
He also served as Associate Pastor at St. James Parish, Sauk Village,
Illinois in 1986. It was during that time that he put his name in the
running to be the founding pastor of a new parish that the Archdiocese
was forming in Orland Hills.
“I never gave much thought about being a pastor, but when there was
an opening that came up to found a parish, I put my name in a hat and
the personnel board interviewed me and I was chosen,” he said.
For 16 years, Father O’Mara stayed at St. Elizabeth Seton and opened
a new school, Cardinal Joseph Bernadin School, one of the first new
schools in the archdiocese in 30 years.
“Being with young people both as a principal and as a pastor has
always given him life,” said Rev. John Siemianowski, Pastor, St. Agnes
Catholic Church, Chicago Heights, where Father O’Mara is also an
Associate Pastor. “And being at Marian, he says he can see the future
and he is very positive about the future. I just know Marian has brought
him new life in a sense of retirement, although he has never retired. He
sees the positive in people and he looks for the positive in people.”

“The Marian Fund impacts all aspects of school life. Your investment will have measurable outcomes
and will send a clear message about the importance of Catholic education.”
-from the 2011-2012 Marian Fund brochure
THE LEADERSHIP CIRCLE OF THE 2011-2012 MARIAN FUND
Tim and Eileen Bergen
Matt and Ann Marie Gornick
Bob and Dolores Jones, Jr.
Paul and Dee Jones, MD MD
Bill and Sharon Kiehl
and the Board of Directors Advancement Committee, Charlie Gallagher ’77, Chair, Scott Bening, Sarah
Ceragioli, and Sr. Megan Farrelly, O.P., invite you to make Marian Catholic a giving priority this year.
The three areas of concentration for 2011-2012 are gifts to the Technology/Media Center, gifts to The Sr.
Simeon Fund for emergency tuition assistance, and Unrestricted Gifts used for general school operations.
If you have already made a gift using your Marian Fund brochure reply mailer, thank you very much. If
you would like to make a gift, visit the Marian Catholic website, www.marianchs.com and click on “Give to
Marian” on the home page, or use the giving envelope included in this issue of Marian Matters. If you have
any questions about the Marian Fund contact Peg Massucci (708) 756-9427 or pmassuci@marianchs.com
Mary Ann Crosetto ’13, Will Craft ’12, and Jenna Zander ’12 are among the many students who
use the Mac Lab side of the Technology/Media Center.
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Technology/Media Center
• Opens for Students •
Continued from pg 1
“With a focus on ‘demonstration of values,’ it
is our active commitment to sustain programs
through state-of-the-art technology, giving our
students the contemporary skills to meet world
challenges as media savvy and technologically
prepared Scholars with a Soul,” said Sister Judine
Hilbing, O.P., President.
The enhanced Technology/Media Center is
supported by benefactors to the 2011-2012
Marian Fund, and gifts to The Courage to Lead
Capital Campaign restricted to broadcasting.

VOLLEYBALL
GOLF
MCHS HIGHLIGHTS
Pictured before heading to the IHSA Volleyball Final Four is (seated) Nicole Manno ’13, and Taylor Byas ’13.
Standing from left to right is Melanie Craft ’14, Jenna Zander ’13, Kendyl Todd ’14, Assistant Coach Bob Piekarski,
Jessica Brzozowski-Fryzel ’13, Jasmine King ’13, Rosalind Byrd ’13, Maddie Huekels ’15, Colleen Rynne ’13, Kelsey
Clark ’15, Iteaanna MacKenzie ’12, Coach Ryan Summers, Alexa Nelson ’14, Megan McDonald ’13, and Amber Clay ’14.
The women’s golf team of Samantha Barlage ’12, Nina Nicpon ’14, Sylvie Brick ’12, Bree Veazey ’13, Alexandra
Palmer ’12, and Abby Brunner ’12 won the Irish Invitational in September and paused for a photo with the trophy.
6
It was a season of firsts for the Marian
Catholic women’s volleyball squad. Led
by first-year head coach Ryan Summers,
the Spartan netters made their first-ever
appearance in the IHSA State Final Four.
After winning the Evergreen Park
Regional, Marian Catholic Sectional and
Rich East Supersectional, the Spartans
captured fourth place in the Class 3A state
tournament at Illinois State University’s
Redbird Arena.
Marian was paced by all-ESCC sophomore
Amber Clay, while a very strong junior class
was also complimented by sophomore
Kendyl Todd and freshman Kelsey Clark.
With junior returnees like Taylor Byas,
Nicole Manno, Rosalind Byrd, Jessica
Brzozowski-Fryzel, Colleen Rynne and
Jasmine King leading the way, the Spartans’
future appears very bright.
Senior Sylvie Brick led the way with a
seventh-place overall finish to pace the
Marian women’s golf team to a second
straight IHSA Class AA sixth-place finish
in state. Junior Bree Veazey added a 23rd
place overall finish to spark the Spartans,
who also got scoring from senior Samantha
Barlage and sophomore Nina Nicpon.
Seniors Alexandra Palmer and Abby Brunner
were also members of the state team.
Marian concluded the year with a 13-0
dual meet record, winning both the East
Suburban Catholic Conference regularseason
and tournament titles. The Spartan
golfers also claimed first place finishes
in tournaments at Bishop McNamara,
Sandburg and the Homewood-Flossmoor
IHSA Regional, as well as winning the
Marian Catholic Invite.
The men’s golf squad saved its best for the
latter part of the season, as the Spartans
followed up a third-place finish in the ESCC
Tournament by winning the IHSA Mount
Carmel Regional at Glenwoodie Golf Course.

Although the Spartans football squad compiled a 4-5 overall mark, the Spartan
gridders earned 36-year Head Coach Dave Mattio ’66 his 250th career victory with
a season finale 21-13 decision over rival Bloom Township. Ironically, many of
Mattio’s early victories occurred at Marian’s former home field, Bloom’s Sarff Field.
“He’s taught people for a long time how to do things the right way,” veteran
defensive coordinator Tim Swanson ’86 said of his former head coach and
coaching comrade of 20 years. “He got on kids when the time called for it and he
consoled kids when they’ve needed help.
“To have 250 wins in today’s environment is unbelievable,” Swanson stated.
Mattio and Swanson are both members of the Marian Catholic High School Hall
of Fame.
Head Football Coach Dave Mattio ’66, pictured with Sister Dorothy Marie
Solak, O.P. at the Homecoming Pep Assembly, has notched his 250th win
as coach of the Spartans.
TENNIS
A B C
MCHS HIGHLIGHTS
Marian’s sister act led the way in
women’s swimming, as Illinois Statebound
senior Katelyn Kresal qualified
for the IHSA state meet in the 100-yard
freestyle and freshman sister Abby
Kresal represented the Spartans at state
in the 200 individual medley.
Katelyn Kresal ’12 made a third trip to the IHSA state swim meet in the 100yard
freestyle, while sister Abby ’15 made her first trip to state in the 200
individual medley.
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FOOTBALL
Women’s tennis represented Marian well at the IHSA
state tournament with three qualifiers and a tie for 28th
place as a team. State qualifiers will all be returnees for
the Spartans, including sectional singles champion Gaby
Rosales (sophomore) and the doubles team of Megan
Melby (junior) and Giselle Beebe (sophomore).
A: Gaby Rosales ’14 Sectional Singles Champion
B & C: The Doubles partners of Giselle Beebe ’14 and
Megan Melby ’13 were Sectional Champions.
SWIMMING

BAND
MCHS HIGHLIGHTS
The Marian Catholic Marching Spartans have claimed an unprecedented 32nd consecutive Illinois State
Championship, a 5th place finish among all high school marching bands in the nation, and a 17th First
Place in Class 2A at the Bands of America Grand National Finals in Indianapolis.
The central point of this year’s show, “The Passion Tree,” is a 12 foot tall, three-dimensional tree that
represents Jesus Christ.
The performance begins with Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, a movement full of dance and celebratory
music, with the tree fully leafed. The second movement portrays Jesus’ betrayal and arrest where
the dance and music turn more forbidding, and the tree begins to lose a few of its leaves. In the third
movement, the persecution, intense music and a speaking choir chanting “Crucify Him!” are accompanied
by the tree losing all of its leaves, revealing a cross in the branches.
In the crucifixion which follows, a hauntingly beautiful piece of music is punctuated by alarming hammer
strikes representing nails driven into a cross.
Meanwhile, the brass section is kneeling in the shape of a cross on the field, playing quietly into the
ground, as the rest of the band slowly moves toward the center to watch. A single dancer in red moves
through the cross formed by the brass section and into a second cross formed by the color guard. The
dancer places a red shawl on the tree, and the resurrection begins with a storm, moving out of the tomb,
and finishes with a huge fanfare and the tree spinning around to reveal the newly-blossomed side.
The Marian Catholic Marching Spartans have reached the Bands of America National Finals for 27
consecutive years, placed 6th or higher 22 times, and brought home the Grand National Championship
seven times.
8
MCHS BAND HOSTS 60’s ROCKER
In 1967, if you listened to the radio, you
probably heard The American Breed’s
version of “Bend Me, Shape Me.” The song
went to number five on the U.S. Billboard
Hot 100 chart in 1968. The group appeared
on the December 16, 1967 episode of the
television show American Bandstand,
along with Pink Floyd. The band hailed
from Cicero, Illinois and was made up of
original members Gary Loizzo on vocals,
Charles Colbert, Jr. on bass guitar, Al Ciner
on guitar, and Lee Graziano on drums.
The Marian Catholic Marching Band was
honored to host Lee Graziano as a special
guest and dedicated their performance
at their first halftime show to him and all
those who appreciate the music of the 60’s.
Lee Graziano (center) is pictured with the
percussion section of the Marian Catholic
Marching Band.
THEATER
Bernadette Senick ’12 portrays Annie
Sullivan while Hannah Lang ’13 plays Helen
Keller in the Theater Department’s fall
production of “The Miracle Worker.”

ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP BENEFACTORS
Jim and Jean Fuehrmeyer, parents of Erika
Fuehrmeyer Myette ’95 and Katie Fuehrmeyer ’99,
spoke to the endowed scholarship benefactors and
scholarship recipients gathered November 5.
Philip and Kim Pascarella, chat with Ken Carpenter ’73
at the reception following Mass on November 5. The
Pascarellas are benefactors of The Nicola and Maria
M. Pascarella Memorial Scholarship. Ken and his wife,
Karen Polletta Carpenter ’71 (not pictured) are major
benefactors to The Sr. Simeon Fund.
AND RECIPIENTS GATHERING
November 5, 2011
“The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any
of his possessions was his own, but they had everything in common…There was no needy
person among them…” (Acts 4: v 32, 34)
The Marian Catholic community has touched the lives of countless people in her
fifty-plus year history. Some, so profoundly committed to Catholic education and
belief in the Dominican charism, are moved to invest in endowed scholarships to
benefit Marian Catholic students now and long into the future.
“I have always believed that everything I’ve been given has been given to me for
the common good and it is my job, my responsibility, to use it in ways that uplift
the community. I try to live my life this way,” said Jean Fuehrmeyer at Mass
November 5.
“From our first Open House visit to Marian Catholic High School, I knew this was a
very special place. Our student guide exuded confidence, strong character and a sense
of self. I said to Jim that day, ‘If this is what Marian does for students, I want our
daughters here.’”
Jim was asked to serve on the Advisory Board when daughter Erika ’95 was a
sophomore.
“That gave me the chance to see Marian from a different perspective and to
experience the love that Sr. Mary Paul, the staff, the other sisters and the teachers,
not to mention the alums on the Advisory Board, all had for the students and this
school,” he said.
“We were blessed financially, and it was an easy choice to share those blessings with
Marian. Whether it was the calendar drive, a capital campaign, a band fundraiser, or
the Endowment Classic golf outing, I always smiled when I wrote out a check.”
Jean and Jim Fuehrmeyer, benefactors of The Elizabeth and John Bitunjac Memorial
Scholarship, are among dozens of Marian Catholic parents, alumni and friends whose
belief in providing a Marian Catholic education in perpetuity has resulted in the
establishment of over forty endowed scholarships.
What compels the commitment is almost as varied as the benefactors themselves.
Some wish to remember parents or loved ones who valued and sacrificed to provide
a Catholic education for the family. Others endow scholarships as a tribute to honor
spouses, family members, or a Dominican Sister, and still others feel a responsibility
to help those who endure difficult family circumstances.
Motivation aside, the fact remains that without endowed scholarships, many students
would not be able continue their education at Marian Catholic. Along with thanking
the benefactors during the Mass celebrated by Fr. William O’Mara, MCHS Chaplain,
all later gathered in the Benish College Center for refreshments and fellowship.
To learn more about the endowed scholarship program at Marian Catholic, please
contact Mary Moffatt: mmoffatt@marianchs.com or (708) 756-9767.
Sister Judine Hilbing, O.P. speaks with Laura Bos ’02 and her mother, Donna, at the Endowed
Scholarship Benefactors and Recipients gathering. Laura, along with other appreciative scholarship
recipients, are now a special group of “alumni scholars” becoming established in their careers and
adult lives. Laura is working two part-time jobs, has a degree in communications from Marquette
University, and is working toward a master’s degree in Library Science at Dominican University.
9

1966 • 1971 • 1976 • 1981
2011
REUNION
SNAP-
SHOTS
Several classes of Marian grads
held reunions this fall hosted
in the Sr. M. Paul McCaughey,
O.P. Leadership Center. Reunion
committee members worked
throughout the spring and
summer to notify their classmates,
resulting in successful events with
lively conversations, pauses for
group photos, plenty of food and
beverages, and lots and lots of
laughter. Heads up to the classes
of 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987,
1992, 2002 and 2007 – your
reunions are next fall. If you want
to participate, please contact
Carol Burke Swanson ’81,
Director of Alumni Relations
cswanson@marianchs.com or
(708) 756-9775.
Class of
1962
Special notice goes out now to the
CLASS OF 1962, Marian’s first 50
year reunion class. Plans are being
formulated now. Don’t miss the
chance to participate. Contact
Carol Burke Swanson ’81,
Director of Alumni Relations
cswanson@marianchs.com or
(708) 756-9775.
Paula Pascale, Luke Pascale ’66, Patti Stanfa Denton ’66,
Heather McDonald, Jim McDonald ’66, and Andy Ross ’66
Deborah D’Apice Schrementi ’71, David Bachelder ’71, Mary Lou
Venditti Travaglini ’71, Joseph Goodrich ’71, and
Mary Pat Colby Kersten ’71
Chris Cummings ’76, Ann Jones, Fr. Fred Zagone ’76,
and Karen Vasek Kuersten ’76
Rosanne Ciambrone ’81, Geriann Fagan ’81,
Danny Lagone ’81, and Cathy Mascolino Taylor ’81
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John Meno ’66, David Zagorski ’66,
Janice Rosati Meno ’66, Linda Peppers Spoleti ’66,
and Mike Cavanaugh ’66
Blase Pignotti ’71, Frank Santilli ’71,
and Andy Grossi ’71
Kathleen Maloney Conniff ’76, Jim Conniff ’76,
and Mary Monteleone Weise ’76
Linda Panozzo Billie ’81, Pete Bartolomei ’81,
and Lisa Concialdi Fazzini ’81

1986 • 1991 • 2001 • 2006
A.J. Palmisano ’86, Heather McCann Akiyoshi ’86,
James Brucato ’86, Marie Harrer Loesch ’86, and Carl Loesch ’86
Jeffrey Brezek ’91, Brian Villari ’91, Tim Tilton ’91,
Tracey Nowak Villari ’92, and Michelle Brezek
Jamie Doligosa ’06, Benhur Calaguas’01, and Kelly O’Brien’01
Chad Lesczynski ’06, Allen Green ’06, C.J. Tuskan ’06,
Kristel Dupaya ’06, Jared DeBoer ’06, Kim Nowakowski ’06,
and Katie Bailey ’06
11
Joe Wright ’86, Don Anderson ’86, Jon Gadbois ’86,
Anthony Gasbarro ’86, Jim Nolan ’86, and Mark Brady ’86
Clockwise Standing top left Marcus Turnbo ’91, Narahari Sasty
’91, Nicole Ray-Clark ’91, and Nicole Watkins ’91
Katie Brewer ’01, Christine Konopasek ’01, Angela Miceli ’01,
and Kathleen Mesterharm ’01
Kim Dorsey ’08, David Mitchell ’06, Aubrey Murphy ’06,
Kevin Conway, and Nicole Marchese ’06

Alumni Authors,
Accomplishments and Accolades
AMY RASMUSSEN ’89 HONORED AT THE WHITE HOUSE
The White House has named CAPE (Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education)
Executive Director Amy Rasmussen a “Champion of Change.” Each week the
White House names a group of Champions in different policy areas, recognizing
those who are making a difference across America.
As a Champion of Change in arts education, Amy was invited to Washington
for a “round table” policy discussion in July. The President’s office named nine
arts education Champions nationwide. The group met with representatives from
the President’s Office of Public Engagement and Domestic Policy office, the
US Department of Education, The President’s Committee on the Arts and the
Humanities, Americans for the Arts, the Arts Education Partnership and the
Creative Consortium.
In addition to participating in the meeting, the White House staff interviewed and photographed each Champion. Amy was asked to write a blog
post for the whitehouse.gov website, which is available on the site.
Amy’s recognition as a Champion of Change illustrates the national impact CAPE has in the arts education field across the country.
I am honored to be a White House Champion of Change - I am both humbled and inspired by my fellow Arts Education Champions, who are all
working with passion and persistence to improve the lives of children everyday across our country. I applaud President Obama for taking a leadership role
in acknowledging the power of the arts to transform communities, to improve education and to drive our economy. I truly appreciated the opportunity to
participate in a lively exchange of ideas with members of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities and The Creative Coalition, and
staff from the US Department of Education, the Arts Education Partnership, and Americans for the Arts during our recent round-table discussion.
My work is rooted in the belief that the arts can play a leading role in transforming education, particularly for students who have been left behind by
traditional schools. In fulfilling our organization’s mission to increase student success through arts driven education, we have inspired change.
Kevin M. Folliard ’01 has authored a book called Christmas Terror Tales, which
combines traditional Christmas elements with the spooky fun of Halloween. Sixteen
gripping tales borrow from classical horror and urban legends, and twist holiday
archetypes into chilling cautionary tales.
For generations, the traditionally peaceful December holiday season has been a celebrated
backdrop for frightening tales. A mischievous snowman frames the children who built him
for its misdeeds. A haughty priest offers shelter to a hideous monster posing as an orphan.
A father brings home a cursed Christmas tree resulting in a terrifying haunting experience
for his family. From October through December, these stories of devils, spirits, murderers,
monsters, and surprise twists will fascinate children and their parents.
Kevin appreciates the many English teachers who helped him along the way, one in particular.
I give major props to my sophomore English Honors teacher, Mr. James Martin. He was
my creative writing teacher too, and I’ve even gone to him on a few occasions for advice in
recent years as a published author. He was very inspirational to me at Marian because he
really helped me hone my skills as an academic writer, while still encouraging creativity and
keeping me interested in fiction writing. He also made me read creepy Henry James ghost
stories like “The Turn of the Screw.”
Kevin’s book is available on Amazon.
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CATCHING UP WITH…MICHELLE GLIOTTONI RODRIGUEz ’98
I have always been a writer, ever since my Marian Catholic days. I devised romantic
and fantastical stories that my friends were always eager to read nearly as soon as
the final words were written. Vampires and ghosts, passionate pirates, and men
in masks, mirrored the Phantom of the Opera. My handwritten notebooks were
passed around, and my friends read whatever current tale I came up with, always
anxious for more. It is a miracle my stories weren’t confiscated by a teacher or one
of the Sisters!
At that time, it was a hobby, and music was my main love. But I have never been
able to put my pencil down, constantly engrossed in writing a new story. I have
written 24 full-length novels and over 60 short stories, but Opera Macabre was
my first attempt at publication. It is a Gothic romance novel that combines a love
for music and a love for darker, passionate vampire tales. In addition to stories of
immortal loves, I have been working on an entire series about angels and demons
that I hope to be published, and I have a worldwide fan following for my Phantom of the Opera short stories.
At the same time, I have continued to perform and further my musical training. I’ve done many performances at St. Xavier University in
Chicago, most recently playing Yum-Yum in the Mikado this past spring. Two careers and two little ones, and my hands are quite full! For
more information on Opera Macabre, my phantom short stories, or my singing performances, please check out my website: http://www.
michellegliottonirodriguez.webs.com/
The connection between many Marian Catholic alumni and their former teachers
remains a bond long after graduation. Such is the case with Dr. Josh zumstein ’00
and Mr. Thomas Golden of the MCHS English Department.
After Josh earned his master’s degree in sports rehabilitation and science, and
concurrently, his doctor of chiropractic at Logan College of Chiropractic in St.
Louis, he eventually joined a chiropractic practice in Orland Park. Seeing firsthand
the broad spectrum of back and neck pain issues presented, Josh began to
realize that taking preventative measures to protect one’s back would help alleviate
medical visits and claims. He will soon open a consulting firm for back safety/injury
prevention and employee wellness.
Taking his theory of prevention one step further, Josh began working on a
manuscript titled, “The Secrets to Preventing Back and Neck Pain: 55 Ways to
Protect Your Spine.” Prior to submitting the manuscript to literary agents, Josh
contacted Mr. Golden to see if he would provide editorial direction.
“Josh’s manuscript is written in very readable fashion for the lay person to understand,” Golden stated. “It’s not full of technical or medical
jargon that would confound most people. Additionally, I learned a few tricks to help alleviate my own back pain in the process.”
Josh can be reached via email at drjzdc@gmail.com for inquiries.
KATE KOHLER ’09 MISSION TRIP TO AFRICA
Jambo! (Hi in Swahili)
I’m pictured among the schoolchildren on the left, along with fellow University of
Illinois students Kayla Guzdziol (center), and Tiffany Au (right).
Being a student who is very interested in service and philanthropy projects, I was
excited to learn that three of my friends became team leaders of a mission project
through the University of Illinois called the Childreach International group.
We went to Kirefure Primary School in Moshi, Tanzania, located in a very small
independent village that primarily does most of its own farming and raising
animals for food. But first we raised $3,700 dollars each to pay for supplies and
workers from the village to start the project. Workers put in new bathrooms for the
13

teachers and students. The first group to arrive sanded, primed, and painted half of the school building. When we arrived as the second group,
the children were able to use the already finished half of the school for classes while we finished the other half. We went above and beyond and
finished an extra classroom adjacent to the school, and all of the new bathrooms.
This mission trip was the chance of a lifetime and I am so happy I chose to commit to the hard work. The renovations we made will hopefully
lead to an increase in attendance. We were able to spend time with the children and the community after work, and on our off days. I developed
some great friendships and learned many new things from the children. There was not a day that went by that the kids were not smiling or
playing all day. It is the simple things in life that get them through their day!
Joan stops for a photo while on the “Sound of
Music” tour in Austria.
A SUMMER OVERSEAS BY JOAN FURJANIC ’09
Camp Adventure is a youth program within the Department of Defense that sends
student interns overseas and across the United States to work with children of
military personnel on American military bases. Iowa State University is a training
site, and being an elementary education major there, I knew I could not pass up this
amazing opportunity to teach at one of several different types of camps; there are
teen camps, youth camps, and centers for toddlers and babies.
This past summer, I worked at a day camp with children aged 6-12. I lived on
Ramstein Air Force base in Germany for ten weeks, and was with the children daily
from 8:30-5:30. As exhausting as the days were, I LOVED going to my center every
day; I loved being able to go to a place where I was greeted with screams and hugs
each morning, and truly loved being surrounded by the kids. However, I also loved
being able to relax and travel on the weekends. I was fortunate enough to go to France,
Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and multiple cities in Germany.
I learned so much about myself this summer and what I am capable of doing as a
leader and an educator, and I know for certain that I want to teach. I don’t think
that I have ever doubted the fact that I wanted to be a teacher, but after this summer I am certain that I can be a teacher.
Marian helped me prepare for this experience. My rigorous schedule at Marian helped me easily transition into college. As a current junior I have
always been able to balance academics, work, volunteering, and social activities. Last semester, in addition to a heavy course load and my job, I
had the additional work of weekly Camp Adventure meetings and assignments. Time management was essential, and I am lucky that I developed
that skill early on at Marian.
Thank you Marian Catholic for teaching this Scholar with a Soul!
ALUMNI HOMECOMING GATHERING
Jim Donahue ’81, Ken Silhavy ’81, Michelle
Weaver Klupchak ’81, and Carl Wendell ’81
14
Mary Monteleone Weise ’76, Margie Arr Biltgen ’76, MaryLou Anello ’76,
Debbie Lagone Brown ’76, Steve Laya ’76, John Brown ’76,
Greg Damiani ’76, Vern Fischer ’75, and Kyle Fischer ’03

Accepting the winning payout for the 9-Hole Scramble from EGC Committee
Co-Chair Mark Peifer ’81 (left), is Jim O’Brien ’71, Robert Gromala ’97, Robert
Gromala ’71, and John Brennan ’97. The fearsome foursome carded a score of
31 in the early morning scramble.
2011 ENDOWMENT GOLF CLASSIC A GREAT TIME!
August 15 proved to be a terrific day considering the hot, sweltering summer weather experienced just days before. A picture perfect day
gave way to some awesome golf shots, great camaraderie, and even a chance for six people to try for a hole-in-one to win $100,000.
During the dinner hosted at Flossmoor Country Club, Sister Judine Hilbing, O.P., President, welcomed the golfers and guests saying,
“As the premier scholarship fundraising event for Marian Catholic, the Endowment Golf Classic, with its continued tradition and overall
success, is the perfect way to begin a new school year. The overwhelming sense of purpose and commitment of the golfers and sponsors
remains a key focus throughout the year.”
The outing generated $100,000 for the Endowment Fund at Marian Catholic. Added to the over $2 million principal, the income
generated from interest alone more than adequately funds dozens of student scholarships, helping deserving students succeed at
Marian Catholic.
Many thanks to the committee members, who worked so diligently to secure sponsorships and silent auction donations, plus participate
in the outing as golfers and volunteers. The 2012 Endowment Golf Classic is scheduled for Monday, August 13. Mark your calendar
now, or set a reminder in your mobile device.
15
Six people qualified to participate in the first-ever $100,000 hole in one
contest at the Endowment Classic, while all the other golfers and guests
watched from the balcony at Flossmoor Country Club. Participants included
Anthony DeLuca, Illinois State Representative (80th District); Greg Underwood,
EGC Co-Chair; Gerry O’Brien, MCHS Director of Guidance; Mark Komorowski ’83,
parent; Eileen Gallagher Daw ’78, parent and committee member; and
Kerry Beukema ’00, committee member.
BUY-A-BRICK
There are many ways to honor someone in the Marian family, but one of the most enduring ways is with an
inscribed brick in the Legacy Walkway outside the West Gym. For a graduate, as a memorial, or to honor entire
families, inscribed bricks become a lasting tribute.
Great Gift Idea
The Buy-a-Brick Program allows everyone an opportunity to participate at the low cost of $100. ($75 is tax
deductible)
If you would like to Buy-a-Brick, please call Kathy Dalton in the Advancement Office (708) 756-9441 or email
kdalton@marianchs.com.
ORDER NOW!
To be included in the next round of inscribed bricks placed in time for May 2012 graduation, brick orders must
be received by February 14, 2012!

Anthony Hugh, Alyssa Rose and Anastasia Maria,
children of Anthony Perozzi ’76
Linda (Peppers) Higgins Spoleti ’66 retired from 30 years of
teaching in 2010 and now enjoys supervising new teachers during their
student teaching experience. More importantly, she is the very proud
grandmother of five children who luckily live right down the street from
her in Elmhurst, IL. This summer, Linda taught English teachers for
one month in Vilnius, Lithuania through a program called WIESCO.
Anthony Perozzi ’76 and his wife, Gina, had triplets on Sept. 1,
2009. Anthony Hugh, Alyssa Rose, and Anastasia Maria were born at
University of Indiana Hospital in Indianapolis all weighing just under
five pounds even though they were nine weeks early.
The family and friends of Drew Kaley, son of Mary Baader Kaley ’87,
recently held a fundraiser to raise money to purchase a 4 Paws Autism
Service Dog through 4 Paws For Ability. Drew is four years old and has
a form of Autism called Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD). He
needs the dog to help him stay safe. The fundraiser netted $13,000 of
the $22,000 needed. For more information and to help Drew, go to
www.DrewAPawLooza.com.
Paul Pabst ’87 and his wife, Dana, are proud to announce the birth of
their second daughter, Molly Sloane on August 28. Molly joins her big
sister Payton, who is almost three.
Brian ’94 and Tracy (Patrizi) ’94 Vander Luitgaren were blessed with
another baby girl on July 17, 2011. Kendall Lynn was welcomed home
by big sisters Alexa, 7 and Jordan, 5 and big brother Michael, 2.
Molly Sloane, daughter of
Paul Pabst ’87
ALUMNI NOTES
Jacob Alexander, son of
Lisa (Kocur) Jorsch ’99
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Take a few minutes and let everyone in the Marian family know how
you’re doing by updating your information on the MCHS website.
Owen Kenneth and Molly,
children of Ken ’97 and
Beth (McIlvain) ’96 Czechanski
Hailey, daughter of
Lisa (Kocur) Jorsch ’99
Lilliana Concetta, daughter of
Anjoli (Faso) Siller ’97
Ken ’97 and Beth (McIlvain) ’96 Czechanski welcomed their second
child, Owen Kenneth, on May 25, 2011. Owen weighed 7 pounds 5
ounces and was 19 inches long. He joins his very proud big sister Molly,
who is four years old.
Anjoli (Faso) Siller ’97 and her husband, Roberto, are excited to
announce the birth of their daughter, Lilliana Concetta. Lily was born
on December 15, 2010 weighing 7 pounds 13 ounces and 20 inches
long. The couple resides in Chicago.
Lisa (Kocur) Jorsch ’99 and her husband, Jerry, announce the birth
of their son, Jacob Alexander. Jacob was born on December 28, 2010
weighing 6 pounds 6 ounces and 20-1/2 inches long. He joins big sister
Hailey, who turned 3 on June 10th.
Chris Uhl ’00 and his wife Juli are expecting their first child in January,
2012. Chris received his masters in Aerospace Engineering and works
for General Electric Aviation. Juli is working toward her doctorate in
medical research.
Matt Bartolini ’01 proposed to Lauren Whited ’05 at the Trump
Towers in Chicago on July 1, 2011 which was also Lauren’s birthday.
They are now busy planning a fall 2012 wedding.
Bryan Cook ’01 married Yaicha Peters on July 23, 2011 in the Canada
Pavilion in EPCOT at Walt Disney World.
Elizabeth Uhl ’01 received her Ph.D. in May and is an assistant
professor at Georgia Southwestern State University.
Ginny Elizabeth, daughter of Brian ’03
and Carrie (Beaudry) ’03 Dolan

Lauren Whited ’05 and
Matt Bartolini ’01
Tim Spear ’07
Brian ’03 and Carrie (Beaudry) ’03 Dolan are happy to announce the birth
of their daughter Ginny Elizabeth, born September 16, 2011. Brian and
Carrie have been married since 2008. Proud grandparents are Sue (Hamilton)
’67 and Joe Beaudry ’67, and Pat ’72 and Nancy Dolan.
Mary Kate Gergel ’03 is an English teacher at Homewood Flossmoor High
School this year.
Melissa Uhl ’04 is working toward her doctorate in Occupational Therapy at
Creighton University.
Robert and Vicki Jensen announce the engagement of their son, Cody
Jensen ’06 to Lynn Nguyen. The couple is planning a July wedding.
Tim Spear ’07 was honored at the White Coat ceremony, an annual event at
Stritch School of Medicine. After a Mass with students, family, and faculty,
150 med students received white coats that are worn in the clinic during
training from Loyola faculty and physicians. The white coat itself symbolizes
care, compassion, and respect, and for the students, white as a new beginning.
Two other Marian alumni received their white coats at the ceremony;
Eric Pedone ’07 and Mia Recupito ’07.
Ann Vrdolyak ’08 was named one of two Athletes of the Month at Loyola
University Chicago. She finished atop the leaderboard to earn medalist
honors in two of the Ramblers three tournaments in October, and broke her
own school record at the NIU Huskie Classic in DeKalb with a 36 hole score
of 148 (75 & 73).
Katherine Moffatt
Rhodes ’93 was
named Vice
President of
Advancement
at De La Salle
Institute in
Chicago. Rhodes oversees the entirety of the
operation from fundraising, special events and
alumni relations to external communications
and public relations. Kate’s previous employer
was Old St. Patrick’s Church in Chicago in
the West Loop where she served as Director
of Advancement. Kate and her husband Andy
currently reside in Bartlett, IL.
Bryan Cook ’01 and his wife, Yaicha
17
Cadet Malik McCray ’10
Cadet Malik J. McCray ’10 has
completed basic training at the
U.S. Military Academy at West
Point, N.Y. He plans to graduate
from West Point in 2015 and
be commissioned as a second
lieutenant in the U.S. Army.
During halftime of the Marian Catholic Alumni Homecoming
Weekend football game, Brandon Jones ’01 proposed to
Laurice Thorne ’01 before the hometown crowd with the song
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith playing in the
background. She accepted and the couple plans to marry
in January, 2013. Laurice is an English professor at a local
college and the business manager of a company in downtown
Chicago. Brandon is the Director of Policy for the Illinois
Coalition Against Domestic Violence and a First Lieutenant in
the Army JAG Corps Reserve.
The Marian Catholic Alumni Association and Friends
outing in August to a Cubs game was a good time in
the friendly confines of the Brixen Ivy rooftop pavilion.
Among those present were Shelley Giannini and Kim
Komorowski, with husbands Mark Komorowski ’83,
and Lou Giannini ’82. Both couples are also parents of
current students and alums.

SR. TERESA’S TRAVELS
Hector Sanchez ’08 is a senior at
Loyola University.
Maggie Conway ’09, Langston
Matthews ’09 and Danny Jameson ’11
attend Loyola University.
Katie Pietraszak ’09 and Blair
Lilek ’07 both attend Pepperdine
University in Malibu, California.
ILLINOIS - LOYOLA UNIVERSITY & BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY
Aisosa Omorogbe ’11 and Anthony Ruggeri ’11
are freshmen at Loyola University.
CALIFORNIA - PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY, CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY,
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY & LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY
VIRGINIA - HAMPTON UNIVERSITY INDIANA - UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME &
SAINT MARY’S COLLEGE
Diamond Jack ’08 is a senior at
Hampton University.
Judith Howard ’11, Caitlyn Zarlengo ’08,
Sean Barry ’09, and Mirinda Morency ’11
are students at Loyola University.
Jazmyn Arrington ’09 attends
Hampton University.
Alia Thomas ’11 and
Abriana Anderson ’10
attend Hampton
University.
Rebecca Gustafson ’05 is in
graduate school at Southern
California University of Health
Sciences, studying to become a
Doctor of Chiropractic.
18
Elise Nethercott ’10 on campus at
Loyola University.
Attending Loyola University is Katie Kollath ’11,
Jessica Lolli ’11, Genesis Mancha ’11,
Christine Lydon ’11 and Jennifer Lydon ’09.
Amy (Calhoun) Sanchez ’98 and her husband, Tom,
met with Sister Teresa on her trip to California.
Amy earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree
at Creighton University and is now employed at
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
Vanessa Brignol ’08, Kaitlyn Hathhorn ’09
and Sarah Dejanovich ’09 are all Loyola students.
Katie Ziltz ’11 attends
Saint Mary’s College
and Michael Spear ’11
attends the University of
Notre Dame.
Danielle Smith ’08, Kara Walsh ’08,
Breanne Amadio ’08, and Tracey Walsh ’08
all attend Benedictine University.
Laura Jansen ’11 and Joe Johnson ’10
attend Loyola Marymount University
in Los Angeles, California.
Sister Teresa is on the road again this fall visiting Marian Catholic students on their college
campuses. In the short time she is able to spend with our Spartans, each one shares with Sister
how thankful they are that they had the Marian Experience. With Advanced Placement classes,
rigorous writing assignments, in-depth time management skills, and leadership program success,
these students are poised to transition through their college years and become vital, contributing
members of society, and they love the chance to connect with the Domincans of MCHS.

ADVANCEMENT OFFICE (708) 755-6579
Sister Judine Hilbing, O.P.
President
Mary Moffatt mmoffatt@marianchs.com
Vice President, Advancement
Carol Burke Swanson ’81 cswanson@marianchs.com
Director of Alumni Relations
Gail Young gyoung@marianchs.com
Director of External Communications
Peg Massucci pmassucci@marianchs.com
Director Marian Fund
Patricia Trebe ptrebe@marianchs.com
Alumni Programs Coordinator
Cindy Dupczak cdupczak@marianchs.com
Donor Relations Manager
Kathy Dalton kdalton@marianchs.com
Donor Relations Coordinator
Pat Cak pcak@marianchs.com
Advancement Office Assistant
RECRUITMENT OFFICE (708) 756-9762
Sister Dorothy Marie Solak, O.P. sdm@marianchs.com
Recruitment Director
Diana McDonnell dmcdonnell@marianchs.com
Recruitment Coordinator
MCHS ADMINISTRATION
(708) 655-7565
Sister Judine Hilbing, O.P.
President
Sister Kathleen Anne Tait, O.P.
Principal
William Hogan
Chief Financial Officer
Mary Moffatt
Vice President, Advancement
John Heneghan
Assistant Principal, Operations
John Kozojed
Assistant Principal, Student Activities
Dr. Shirley Morris
Assistant Principal, Academics
Marian Matters is published three times a year under
the direction of the Advancement Office of Marian
Catholic High School. Items submitted after deadline
will be held for publication in a future issue. Any
questions or concerns about Marian Matters should be
directed to Gail Young.
19
IN MEMORY OF...
The Dominican Sisters of Springfield, the
Alumni Association, and the entire Marian
Catholic community sadly acknowledge the
passing of the following members of our family:
To notify Marian Catholic of an alumnus’ death, or to order
Memorial Cards, please call the Advancement Office (708) 755-6579.
MEMORIAL
MASS
ALUMNI:
Mark Altman ’66
Judith DeMayo’65
Valerie (Paul) Basile ’74 Kenneth Elmore ’84
Sam Costello ’71
Pauline Faso ’70
Nancy (Marshall) Wagner ’70
PARENTS OF ALUMNI:
Sungshik An
Virginia Panio
Carol Condes
Marge Pappas
Betty DiLuia William R. Richter
Rosemary Lamarre
David Rohn
Leonard Lula Edward H. Savant
Robert J. Martin Marilyn Slavin
Marilyn O’Leary Stanley Wilczynski
Jennifer Wood
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let
perpetual light shine upon them.
May the souls of the faithful departed, through the
mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen
On Saturday, Oct. 29, 2011, friends
and family gathered in the Student
Chapel at Marian Catholic High
School for a Memorial Mass to
celebrate the Feast of All Souls
and All Saints, and to remember
family and friends who are now
in the loving embrace of the Lord.
Michael Wilczynski ’77, pictured,
was a lector at the Mass.
The Marian Catholic family
remembers these loved ones in
prayer and liturgy throughout the
year, however, we gather as a
community in the fall to honor and
recall the names of those honored
through the Marian Catholic
Memorial Fund.

UPCOMING EVENTS
COLLEGE DAY
Thursday, January 5, 2012
11:00 a.m. to 1:20 p.m.
Marian Catholic High School
MCHS TAIL POWER
TEXAS HOLD’EM
January 14, 2012 - 5:00 p.m.
Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. Leadership Center.
For more information contact Rob Swanson at
swany42000@yahoo.com
MARIAN FUND
ANNUAL PHONATHON
Parent Sessions:
Monday through Thursday
January 23, 24, 25, & 26, 2012
6:15 to 9:00 p.m.
Alumni Sessions:
Sunday, January 29, 2012
2:00 to 5:30 p.m. & 5:45 to 9:00 p.m.
Monday, January 30, 2012
5:30 to 9:00 p.m.
MCHS HALL OF FAME AWARDS
Thursday, February 16, 2012
6:15 p.m.
Olympia Fields Country Club
MCHS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
MEETING
Thursday, March 15, 2012
7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. Leadership Center
MCHS MOTHERS CLUB
Evening of Excellence
Friday, March 16, 2012
Georgio’s Banquets
MARIAN MADNESS
NCAA FINAL FOUR
Basketball Event
Saturday, March 31, 2012
4:30 p.m.
Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. Leadership Center
CAREER DAY AT MCHS
Monday, May 7, 2012
11:30 a.m. to 2:20 p.m.
CHICAGO METRO GATHERING
Thursday, May 24, 2012
5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Chicago Yacht Club
SAVE THE DATE CLASS REUNIONS
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. Leadership Center
Update your information on the
Marian Catholic website www.marianchs.com
Office for Institutional Advancement
Marian CatholiC high SChool
700 Ashland Avenue
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
(708) 755-6579
www.marianchs.com
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Marian Catholic Alumni
Association Meeting
MArIAN CAthoLIC
ALUMNI
A S S o C I A t I o N
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. Leadership Center
MARIAN CATHOLIC
ENTRANCE EXAM
FOR 8th GRADERS
Saturday,
January 14, 2012
8:00 a.m.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
MArIAN CAthoLIC
ALUMNI
A S S o C I A t I o N
YOU ARE INVITED
MARIAN CAThOlIC
hIgh SChOOl
hAll Of fAME AwARDS
Thursday, february 16, 2012
Olympia Fields Country Club
Normandy Room
$55 per person
Cocktail Reception 6:15 p.M.
Dinner 7:15 p.M.
ALUMNI OF THE YEAR
DeNNis A CORtes ’82 AND
KRistiN DepeDeR CORtes ’82
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
JAmes pOyNtON ’85
FINE ARTS
DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT
ANN HeAley BOweN ’87
SPIRIT OF MARIAN
JuDitH welsH ’68
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Rev. williAm O’mARA
for Reservations
contact pat trebe
Alumni Programs Coordinator
(708) 756-9405
ptrebe@marianchs.com
Marian Catholic High School is a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory high school
within the Dominican tradition of study, prayer, community, and preaching. Marian
Catholic students seek truth, exhibit personal responsibility, cultivate their individual
talents, and demonstrate ethical leadership and Christian service.