Winter 2012 - Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy

WINTER 2012 

CVCA 

TRUMPETER 

A Publication of Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy for Alumni, Parents, and Friends 

IN THIS ISSUE: 

J-term 2012 

New Building Dedication 

Athletic Hall of Fame 

E D U C A T I N G A N D C U L T I V A T I N G S E R V A N T S F O R C H R I S T

CVCA 

TRUMPETER 

Vice President, 

Institutional 

Advancement and 

Programs: 

Jason Spodnik ’88 

Public Relations 

Coordinator: 

Jocey Bolender 

Alumni Relations 

Coordinator: 

Mary Taylor 

Copy Editor: 

Ethel Mae Haslett 

Winter 

2012 

at CVCA 

Designer: 

Anna (Jones) Lile ’84 

Photography: 

Yearbook Staff 

Woodard Photography 

Mike Wise 

The Trumpeter is 

published three times 

a year for friends of 

CVCA. If you would 

like your name 

removed from the 

mailing list, please 

phone 330-929-0575, 

ext. 331, or e-mail 

pzaubi@cvcaroyals.org.

A W O R D F R O M T H E P R E S I D E N T 

Cultivation Involves Action 

On Sunday afternoon February 12 parents, staff, alumni, and friends 

of Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (CVCA) came together to celebrate 

God’s provision for His school. The occasion was the dedication of 

the Step 2 building addition. The 35,000 sq. ft. expansion of CVCA’s 

under-roof facilities is a great blessing and a significant enhancement to the 

school. For the first time in a long time we feel as though we have “breathing 

room!” Yet, as you’ve heard me say before, ultimately our campus facilities 

are simply “tools” to help us with the primary work of CVCA – the 

work of Educating and Cultivating Servants for Christ. 

I hope familiarity with CVCA’s mission statement does not cause us 

to take it for granted or to minimize either of its two distinct parts. Our 

commitment to Christ-centered “educating” is well-documented with demonstrable results. Yet there are 

times when I think that we (as a community) need to be more honest in articulating and embracing what 

“cultivating servants for Christ” can/should mean. Cultivation involves action. When soil is cultivated 

it is challenged, disturbed. It is not permitted to remain in its natural, undisturbed, and uncultivated 

state. And this is a good thing, for uncultivated soil does not result in a profitable harvest. Soil which is 

disturbed and nurtured, on the other hand, has a much better chance of yielding a good crop. 

■ 

■ 

■ 

I believe we can cultivate Christian servanthood in our students/children by: 

encouraging them to trust Christ and to look to Him continually for guidance for life and strength 

to meet life’s challenges 

teaching them to be others-focused rather than self-focused and encouraging their participation in 

service-oriented activities and programs (at school, in church, and yes, at home!) 

continually reminding them that God is at work in the lives of His children, using all of life’s circumstances 

(successes and failures, joys and disappointments) to conform them (us) to the image of 

Christ (Romans 8:28-29) 

■ Constant prayer – “Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.” (Psalm 127:1) 

Thank you for believing in CVCA and its mission. As we move toward the conclusion of yet another 

school year, please pray that the mission of Educating and Cultivating Servants for Christ will have been 

accomplished in the lives of our students and staff and in the greater school community. 

Roger Taylor, Ph.D., President 

IN THIS ISSUE: 

4 Advancement News 

5 A Royal Tribute 

6 Fine Arts 

8 J-Term Stories 

10 A CVCA Family 

11 Soccer Alum Goes Pro 

12 The Dedication 

14 Winter Athletics 

18 Echoes 

WINTER 2012 • THE TRUMPETER 3

ADVANCEMENT 

Kingdom Fund Fast Facts 

• Your gift to the Kingdom Fund is THE 

critical weight to balance the cost of an 

excellent Christian, college-prep education 

with the priority of accessibility 

and affordability. Thank you for partnering 

with Cuyahoga Valley Christian 

Academy to ensure that we continue to 

Educate and Cultivate Servants for 

Christ. 

• The actual cost per student (total 

expenses/total students) is approximately 

$1,000 more than CVCA charges for 

full-price tuition. 

• Part of your Kingdom Fund gift is 

applied to the salaries and benefits of 

our teachers, the dedicated PEOPLE of 

Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy. 

• Part of your Kingdom Fund gift is 

applied to need-based financial aid, 

allowing students to have the CVCA 

experience who may not otherwise have 

the opportunity. 

• CVCA is a critical launching pad for the 

life-long success of our students. The 

class of 2011 received $8,707,009 in 

college scholarship offers. 

We need your help. 

God is transforming the hearts and lives 

of our students through their interactions 

with the Gospel – modeled by their teachers, 

mentors, role models, and fellow classmates. 

We covet your prayers and continued 

partnership with Cuyahoga Valley 

Christian Academy. We cannot meet our 

goal without you. Please visit our website 

to find out how to make a SIGNIFI- 

CANT impact today! You can give online 

directly to the Kingdom Fund, or make a 

check payable to CVCA and include a 

note designating your gift in the envelope. 

Thank you for your partnership. 

www.cvcaroyals.org 

NEW: THE LINK Online Magazine 

We are pleased to provide an upgrade in 

THE LINK, our primary parent communications 

newsletter. The new online format includes a 

redesigned cover, updated layout, and full resolution 

color images. 

“CLICK HERE!” Each month our current parents 

receive an email notification to view The Link 

online. The newsletter is available to everyone on the 

school website. Check it out at www.cvcaroyals.org. 

By simply “clicking” on the picture of The Link, 

you will be able to view the entire publication. 

JOIN US! 

Tickets Required 

for 2012 

Commencement 

Tickets will be required for the 

Class of 2012 commencement 

exercises at The Chapel in Green 

on Sunday, May 27. First priority 

will be given to the families of 

the Class of 2012. Others who 

would like to secure tickets, if 

they become available, please 

contact Mrs. Jeanie Micale at 

jmicale@cvcaroyals.org or 330- 

929-0575, ext. 234 to add your 

name to a reservation list. Please 

include name, number of tickets 

desired, and an email address. 

You will be notified in early May 

regarding the number of tickets 

you will receive. Reserved tickets 

will be available for pick up 

at the CVCA Welcome Center 

during school hours. 

4 WINTER 2012 • THE TRUMPETER

A ROYAL TRIBUTE 

A Royal 

Tribute 

Goodbye and thank you 

to two beloved members 

of the CVCA family 

 

MRS. KYM CALCO 

Former English Teacher and Curriculum Coordinator 

Mrs. Kym Calco, who taught English from 

1998-2008 and served as CVCA’s curriculum coordinator, 

went home to be with her Savior and Lord 

on February 1, 2012. In addition to her teaching 

and curriculum responsibilities, she acted as lead 

mentor to new teachers and worked with the 

school’s Local Professional Development 

Committee (LPDC). 

In the decade she served the Lord at CVCA, 

Mrs. Calco endeared herself to many students 

who sat in her classes and benefited from her 

youthful attitude, her concern for young people, 

and her love for Jesus Christ. Following her 

tenure at CVCA, she accepted the position of high school principal at Lake Center 

Christian School in Hartville, where she worked until the leukemia she had courageously 

battled for almost two years prevented her from working. 

Our condolences to her husband, Jim, and daughters, Lauren (Hammond) ’02, 

Alana (Nolte) ’04, and Leah ’06. 

MR. ROBERT DIPAOLO 

Former Teacher and Friend of CVCA 

The definition of a godly man is not 

something that can be simply looked up in 

a dictionary; it is not even something that 

can be told to you in words. Rather, it is 

the culmination of a lifetime of service to 

God, to family, and to neighbors, always 

thinking one’s own needs second. And for 

that reason, I am not going to tell what a 

good man is and I am not going to tell you 

what a great man is. I am going to tell you 

the kind of man that Robert DiPaolo was. 

In doing so, I hope to paint a picture of 

one of the most godly men I know – my 

grandfather. 

Robert DiPaolo spent his career 

teaching and his life serving. He came to 

CVCA in 1988 to teach wood shop and 

retired in 1997, a year before I started at 

CVCA. While he may not have taught 

everyone’s favorite class, he was most certainly 

everyone’s favorite teacher. During 

my junior high days at CVCA, I would 

often get stopped in the hallway 

by an upperclassman and asked 

if I was related to Mr. DiPaolo. 

Invariably, they would ask me 

to pass along a greeting and a 

hug to their former teacher. 

It never ceased to amaze 

me the impact my grandfather 

had on those around him; students, 

teachers, and faculty all 

had stories of how Bob 

DiPaolo touched their lives. 

He meant so many things to 

so many people over the years. 

From coaching inner city basketball 

to leading the care team at his church, 

my grandfather devotedly served Christ his 

entire life. 

My grandfather’s Christian faith was 

firmly rooted in a deep love for scripture 

and prayer. And out of his steadfast belief 

in God, he modeled what it meant to be a 

godly man. This, more than anything else, 

was the greatest gift he could ever give me. 

While it is sad that he is no longer physically 

present in my life, I rejoice and take 

comfort in knowing that he has received 

his eternal inheritance from our Father in 

Heaven. by Zach DiPaolo ’05 


FINE ARTS 

Performing and Serving in Nashville 

C H O I R A N D H A N D B E L L S S P R I N G T O U R 

During the Music Department’s March tour to Music City – Nashville, the Concert 

Choir, Chamber Singers, and Royal Ringers lived out CVCA’s mission statement of 

Educating and Cultivating Servants for Christ. Many thought this tour the “best tour ever” 

for great food, entertainment, ministry, sight seeing, and performances. The students’ first 

day in Nashville included shopping and dinner at the beautiful Gaylord Hotel and 

Resort, followed by a performance at the National Rescue Mission which feeds over 1,000 

men a day in the downtown area. One student wrote, “I didn’t realize how many people 

are homeless in the world!” 

An early start for the second day found the Chamber Singers packing 600 food boxes 

at the Feed the Children Ministry in only one and a half hours! Students were excited and 

encouraged that they could do SO much in SO little time. 

Later that day, all students performed, helped to serve lunch, and visited with folks at 

the Isaiah 58 Ministries’ Soup Kitchen, a ministry of Belmont Church. Choir member 

Jessica Wise said, “I loved when we sang at the soup kitchen. Abby and I talked to a man 

named James. He was so nice, and I could see that he loved the Lord. He made me appreciate 

how much I actually have.” 

CVCA’s own alum Andrew Patton ’92 of Inpop Records and Patton House 

Entertainment encouraged the students interested in pursuing a music career to “stay true 

to their values and not to compromise what they believe to succeed.” They were also 

treated to an anointed acoustic performance by emerging artist Rhett Walker, whose hit 

single “When Mercy Found Me,” comes out next month on the radio. 

The students had fun learning about country music everywhere they went: line dancing 

at the Wildhorse Restaurant, relaxing on the General Jackson Riverboat, and enjoying 

their backstage tours of the Ryman Auditorium (where they performed a concert), and 

touring backstage at the Grand Ole Opry, where that evening Keith Urban and other 

country greats performed during a live radio broadcast! 

Mrs. Jennifer Moore, CVCA Choir Director, wrapped up her excitement about the 

tour: “We praise the Lord for His mercy and grace for this tour and pray that this feeling 

of community, humbleness, and service carries us through to the end of the year.” 


FINE ARTS 

Speaking and Debating Success 

T H E T A L K I N G R O Y A L S 

The Talking Royals enjoyed another fine season this school 

year. Highlights of the season included: 

• The team brought home another Perry Chair, with Christian 

Corpora taking first place in Humorous Interpretation. 

• A third place win was earned in the 10th annual CVCA 

Holiday Classic Tournament. 

• At the largest tournament in the State, the Wooster Rotary 

Tournament, the Royals had a strong showing. Finishing as 

finalists were the following: 

Johneva Stikes-Jenkins – 4th in Oratorical Interpretation 

Rachel Criswell – 4th in Humorous Interpretation 

Christian Corpora – 2nd in Humorous Interpretation 

Clara King and Hannah Ross – 1st in Duo Interpretation 

Julia Benyo – 1st in Prose and Poetry 

• 13 team members qualified for the State Tournament at 

Jackson High School in March. 

Clara King and Hannah Ross – Duo Interpretation 

Christian Corpora and Rachel Criswell – Humorous 

Interpretation 

Johneva Stikes-Jenkins – Oratorical Interpretation 

Julia Benyo and Grace Bolinger – Prose and Poetry 

Annie Cho and Jennah Romansky – Public Forum Debate 

Maddie Cuckow and Jordan Budrevich – Student Congress 

Sam Hill and Ben Pykare – United States Extemporaneous 

Speaking 

• At the State Tournament, Rachel Criswell finished as a 

Quarter-finalist; Grace Bolinger, Christian Corpora, and 

Ben Pykare finished as Semi-finalists; and Julia Benyo 

became the 8th team member in the history of the Talking 

Royals to finish as a finalist by taking 4th place in her event. 

One more highlight of the season took place at the Eastern 

Ohio District Tournament where Clara King and Hannah Ross 

just missed qualifying to the National Tournament in Indianapolis 

by taking 6th place in Duo Interpretation. Others qualifying for the 

National Tournament in June were Christian Corpora who finished 

3rd in Humorous Interpretation and Ben Pykare took home 

1st place in United States Extemporaneous Speaking. 

The team is lead by coaches Miss April Burchett, Mr. Dale 

Schilling, and Miss Liz Wides. 

This is the 18th year for the Talking Royals Speech and Debate team. 

We are members of the Greater Akron Speech League, the Ohio 

High School Speech League and the Eastern Ohio Chapter of the 

National Forensics League. The team competes in nine individual 

events and Public Forum Debate. 

The Talking Royals are committed to Colossians 4:6… 

“Let your conversation be always full of 

grace, seasoned with salt, so that you 

may know how to answer everyone.” 

April Burchett with Julia Benyo after Julia took 4th place in the State 

Tournament at Jackson High School on March 3rd. 

Talking Royals students who finished as finalists at Wooster on 

January 21. 


J-TERM 

1 2 3 

4 5 6 

7 8 9 

Expanding Learning Beyond 

the Classroom 

8 WINTER 2012 • THE TRUMPETER 

2012 

Adventures in Cooking…Batik the World…Worship Workshop… 

These and other out-of-the-norm classes created J-term 2012. Some 

students traveled as far as Austria and were immersed in the German language; others stayed closer 

to school where they learned that life is More Than Sports. 

All told, over 140 students spent J-term away from home. That doesn’t include students who 

attended a retreat where they were Discerning God’s Call. All of our Junior High students packed 

their bags, too. Seventh graders attended Winter Blast where they worked on unity in Christ. Eighth 

graders went on the inaugural Created for Freedom trip, a learning experience based on creationism 

and the Underground Railroad. 

Over 80 students participated in Career Experience Opportunities. Students in our new School 

of Medical Professions shadowed health care professionals, many seeing careers in a new light. 

Faculty shared their expertise in courses such as Sewing Basics, Strong for Christ, Advanced 

Rocketry, and Leadership Models. J-term offers many classes so all students can experiment with 

learning something new. It is one way CVCA is working to educate and cultivate students to become 

shining Christian lights in the 21st century.

J-TERM 

10 11 12 

13 

14 15 

16 17 

1–Space Camp 

2–Winter Blast 

3–California Trip (Yosemite National Park) 

4–Capturing God’s Light Through Photography 

5–Batik the World 

6–Puritan Theology and Life 

7–Adventures in Cooking 

8–Brazil Trip 

9–Created for Freedom 

10 – Spanish in the Windy City 

11 – Meaningful Music 

12 – Premier Flight Academy 

13 – Space Camp 

14 – Puritan Theology and Life 

15 – Winter Hiking in the Grand Canyon 

16 – Fitness Fun 

17 – Careers in Physical therapy 

18 – Fitness for Life 

Learning from Alumni 

Students in the Adventures 

in Cooking course were treated 

to a morning at DANTE, an 

upscale well-known restaurant 

in Tremont. Chef, owner, 

and CVCA alumnus Dante 

Boccuzzi ’89 (far left) shared 

his culinary experiences and 

cooking techniques with the 

students. It was an amazing 

opportunity for the young 

new cooks. 

18 


OUR C VC A FAMILY 

Our Christian School Experience by Rev. John Wilson 

Rekindling the Historic CVCA and CHCS Connection 

The Wilson family has long been part of the extended CVCA and CHCS family. 

Rev. John Wilson, Administrator at Chapel Hill Christian School and former 

student of both schools, and Laura Wilson, a teacher at Chapel Hill, made a 

commitment to Christian education long ago that has greatly impacted their 

family. Putting their children, Krista (Wilson) Thomas ’08, John ’12, and Emma ‘14, 

through both schools has provided a wealth of Christian education experience. 

We are ending our tenth consecutive year 

with children at CVCA. We have two more 

with Emma after John graduates this May. 

Our experience as parents… 

We have made some wonderful friends by 

relating to the parents of our children’s 

friends through sports, ministry opportunities, 

and the arts. We also count CVCA staff 

and faculty members (past and present) as 

some of our closest relationships. 

We’ve been challenged by the faculty 

and administration’s commitment 

to the students. The 

number of faculty committed 

to mission trips, Jump 

Start, Diakonos, clubs, athletics, 

etc. is amazing! 

We are consistently sharpened 

by CVCA’s commitment to 

God’s Word. Mr. Bova’s emphasis 

in this area is such a blessing, and Mrs. 

Bailey’s commitment to prayer has encouraged 

our dependence on the Holy Spirit. 

How our family has been impacted… 

We look forward to school sporting events, 

productions, and ministry programs. Much 

of our fun and conversation has revolved 

around CVCA’s incredible programming. 

We’ve been able to attend CVCA chapels 

which are always spiritually vital. We walk 

away remembering why we’ve made the 

commitment to CVCA for 12 years. 

Programs like Jump Start, the DR trip, 

Pittsburg Project, Diakonos, and SOAR 

have provided opportunities to serve together 

and talk about God moving. Some of 

these conversations have been the most 

meaningful quality times for our family over 

the past ten years. 

Krista found her husband at CVCA. We’ve 

been honored by the addition of Christopher 

Thomas to our family and the 

blessing of being linked to the 

Thomas family. 

Why the investment? 

In 2002, Mrs. Sharon Ausbury, 

principal at Chapel Hill 

Christian School, had a lifechanging 

talk with Laura that 

placed a call on our lives to give 

our children a Christ-centered 

education. 

Later, Mr. Dale Bissonette spoke 

about giving his children a “seamless” 

life – a continuity in life as a 

child moves from the home, to 

the church, and the school. His 

point was that each of these 

“training centers” should offer 

children a safe environment to draw 

closer to Christ. We agreed. 

Finally, we felt God asking us to obey and 

commit to a Christian education. It was 

His will for us! It was also logical to us 

that our children would emulate 

those whom they called “teacher.” 

If that were the case, and we 

believe it is, we want them to 

emulate followers of Jesus. 

Whenever this commitment 

became a struggle, we had an opportunity 

to attend a CVCA or Chapel Hill 

Christian School (CHCS) chapel service. 

God’s presence always renewed our decision 

to provide this education for our children. 

It is important to note that CVCA and 

CHCS have always ministered generously to 

our family through financial aid and scholarships. 

Had it not been for CVCA’s commitment 

to us, a Christian education would 

not be possible for our children. 

Our CVCA highlights… 

We have one continuous highlight of our 

The Wilson Family (left to right): Pastor and Mrs. Wilson, 

Christopher ’08 and Krista (Wilson) Thomas ’08, Emma ’14, and John ’12 

time at CVCA. Every time one of our children 

has experienced a significant passage of 

life, God has provided a CVCA faculty 

member to provide affirmation, mentoring, 

encouragement, and godly counsel. What a 

profound gift this has been to us as parents! 

The CVCA/CHCS relationship… 

Being as phenomenally old as I am, I was 

present at the founding of both institutions. 

In those days, CHCS lacked space for students 

entering middle school, so they were 

shipped to a nearby church. We were 

blessed and relieved when CVCA opened 

its doors. It was the initiation of a true 

Christian junior high and high school 

that would be continuous with 

everything CHCS valued. 

Today we are seeing a fresh 

unity between our schools. 

Initiatives like the recent J-term missions 

trip to Guatemala united students and parents 

from both schools. This year has also 

seen tremendous cooperation in worship 

and chapel ministries between the schools. 

In addition, younger children are blessed 

and influenced by older students who love 

the Lord. This year CVCA visited CHCS 

campuses through internships, music 

lessons, and athletic instruction with outstanding 

results. I believe we are witnessing 

a deep, cooperative spirit that will bring 

glory to God and win hearts to Him in a 

worldwide way! 


OUR C VC A FAMILY 

ROYALLY PREPARED 

BEN SPEAS ’08, former Royals soccer player, was recently recruited 

to play Major League Soccer for the Columbus Crew. We asked Ben 

how CVCA helped prepare him for this new venture. 

How have the“lessons” learned at 

CVCA helped you today? 

I believe CVCA has been foundational to 

my walk with Christ and set me up to succeed. 

Not just the Bible classes, math classes, 

sports, or events, but it has been the 

people and the 

time they invested 

in me as a person 

that has made the 

difference. I know 

my years spent at 

CVCA are significant 

and something 

I’ve yet to 

find anywhere else. 

What is your 

biggest take 

UNC: 2011 NCAA Champs 

away from your 

journey so far? 

Be grateful for what God has given you. 

Focus on the present and how you can 

make yourself or someone else better 

TODAY. 

What have been a few obstacles and 

how have you overcome those challenges? 

I have had some difficult times with 

injuries and sometimes people in soccer. 

Playing with the Royals 

I’ve learned to focus on what 

I can control and give the 

rest to God. It has been the 

biggest lesson in my life thus 

far, and I am so thankful and 

blessed to still be able to do 

what I love to do. 

Best memories of 

CVCA? 

The people – my coaches, teachers, 

classmates – their positive and 

Christ seeking attitude. It is something 

I will never forget, and it definitely 

has affected me and how I 

treat others I interact with now. Oh 

yeah, and the lunchroom cookies. 

As you think about 

playing for the Crew, 

what are you looking forward 

to? How do you feel about 

playing in your home state of 

Ohio? 

I am very excited to be given this 

opportunity, it is what I have 

worked towards my whole life 

and have been very blessed with 

this chance. I am excited because 

2011 – The University of North Carolina 

• Played in all 26 games, starting 25 

• Collected seven goals and ten assists 

• ACC Tournament MVP 

• College Cup Most Valuable Offensive 

Player 

• NCAA DI National Title 

• Top 100 by Top Draw Soccer 

2010 – The University of Akron 

• Played in all 25 games, starting 4 

• Collected two goals and three assists 

• NCAA DI National Title 

2009 – The University of Akron 

• Appeared in all 25 games 

• College Cup All-Tournament Team 

• Recorded two goals and three assists 

• College News Freshman Top 100 

Practicing with the Crew 

Signing with the Crew 

it is so close to my family and friends 

which is important to me. 

What are you looking forward to in 

the future? 

Whether I’m out on the pitch or behind a 

desk someday, I want to be spreading His 

Word. I want to show my faith in Him 

through my words and my actions. 

BEN’S CAREER 

HIGHLIGHTS 

Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy 

• 8th Ranked Senior in the nation according 

to ESPNRise.com 

• 11th-ranked prospect by Top Drawer 

Soccer 

• Competed for the U.S. National Youth 

teams U-20, U-18 and U-17 

• Two-time Parade All-American ('08,'07) 

• Two-time NSCAA High School Boys All- 

American ('08,'07) 

• Adidas ESP All-Star ('07) 

• Member of the 2008 U-18 Columbus 

Crew Academy National Finals team 


B UILDING DEDICATION 

More than a Building Project 

David Frambes, Construction 

Superintendent for Welty Construction, 

spent every day for seven plus months at 

CVCA during the entire project. 

Throughout the construction, Dave 

would often mention the uniqueness of 

the students and faculty and the impact it 

was having on him. We asked Dave to 

reflect on his time with us…. 

What was your role in the project? 

“As the Construction Superintendent 

for Welty, I oversaw all the foremen and 

sub-contractors. We originally were scheduled 

to have the building completed during 

the summer of 2012, but then we 

decided we could move it up six months. 

“It was really 

uplifting to be 

here and watch 

the students.” 

By knocking 6-7 months 

off the construction 

schedule, we saved CVCA 

considerable money. We 

then had Christmas break 

and J-term to demolish 

the “old” part that connected 

the new building 

to the old, and we were 

able to have the building 

ready for students by 

January 17.” 

What was an unexpected 

highlight? 

“We had three senior interns who 

worked with us: Will VanBuskirk, Chris 

Karnadi, and Connor Holloway. Getting 

to know these boys and watching them 

work was refreshing and enlightening. 

They not only worked hard each day, they 

were enjoyable to be around. Because of 

their behavior, it inspired me to be a better 

man and to follow the example of the 

boys. Being at CVCA strengthened my 

faith. I am a better person for having 

worked here.” 

How was this project 

at CVCA different 

from others you 

have worked on? 

“I saw a marked 

difference in the students 

and faculty here 

compared to other 

schools. When the students 

returned after 

Christmas, there was 

enthusiasm and joy. 

To see teachers and 

Mr. David Frambes students greeting each 

other and even hugging 

showed they were really glad to see 

each other. It was really uplifting to be 

here and watch the students. 

“We also received cookies, snacks, and 

fruit each week. The nicest thing was the 

prayer cards, blessing and thank-you notes 

to the workers. In the beginning, the construction 

crews weren’t sure what to do 

with the notes, and then they became 

eager to read them each week. This type of 

thing really set the tone of the project. 

continued on page 13 


B UILDING DEDICATION 

Celebrating our Expansion! 

On Sunday, February 12, CVCA families and friends gathered to dedicate the new 

35,000 square-foot building addition and celebrate the completion of this phase of the 

Tools for Transforming Tomorrow campaign. 

The new addition provides eight new classrooms, a large, multi-purpose room 

targeted for Fine Arts, four academic department rooms/offices, four new locker rooms, a 

weight room and wrestling room, and new student commons. 

If you haven’t had a chance 

to see the new expansion, 

stop by and check it out! 

The atmosphere from the crews was very 

different from most sites. The guys became 

real team players, which changed the outlook 

on the job.” 

“Personally, I looked forward to coming 

to work every day, because it was 

CVCA. Now that we have completed this 

job, I don’t want to leave – wish we could 

keep on building here.” 

When you think of CVCA, what stands 

out to you? 

“Construction has been my profession 

for 34 years. This project has been one of 

the most rewarding projects I have worked 

on in my 34 years. 

“My time spent with Mr. Gaul and 

Mr. Heasley was a highlight. Mr. Heasley 

can really “reel you in.” I would have an 

hour drive back and forth each day, and I 

would often drive and reflect on my day 

here at the school. I would think about the 

teachers and students and what a unique 

place this is. 

“I’ve had a lot of outstanding projects, 

but not one where I felt as close to the 

community of people as CVCA.” 

Have you toured the campus lately? 

CVCA alumna Jana Chervenic ’76 

recently visited the campus. She was 

excited to share her experience with us. 

“I haven’t been on an official tour of 

CVCA since I was a sophomore coming 

from Falls High! When we got to the Bible 

Department, I was so overwhelmed with 

the realization of how wonderful CVCA is, 

I had to work hard to fight back the tears. I 

am amazed at what God has done at 

CVCA and thoroughly impressed with the 

beautiful students we saw that day. 

Thank you to all the staff, teachers, and parents who have made this 

oasis of love and light available to our community. I love you all! “ 


ATHLETICS 

Royals Wrestling: A Team of Champions 

The Lord blessed the CVCA wrestling 

team with a great 2011-12 season. The 

team began with high expectations and 

ended with an incredible 3rd place finish at 

the Division II OHSAA State Tournament. 

The wrestlers were led by senior captains 

Matt Meadows and David Gray, and 

junior captain Nathan Tomasello. 

The team started the season by bringing 

the nation’s number-one-ranked high 

school wrestling team into CVCA’s gym 

for a dual meet. Then, the tough schedule 

continued as the wrestlers took on the best 

David Gray, Senior 

teams in the country at the Walsh Ironman 

Tournament, where CVCA finished in 

11th place. The team then moved onto the 

Medina Invitational and the Alliance Top 

Gun Tournament, earning an impressive 

3rd place team finish in each. 

In December, the Royal wrestlers 

traveled to the Troy Christian Invitational 

where they won a team championship. In 

January, the team competed in the West 

Virginia Duals and won nine straight dual 

meets ending a 115-match winning streak 

of the perennial West Virginia power 

Parkersburg South to bring home the tournament 

championship. The Royals went 

14-1 for the season in dual meets, with victories 

over Oregon Clay, Lexington, Milan 

Edison, and Bedford St. Peter Chanel, losing 

only to national power Lakewood St. 

Edward. Our wrestlers won the Principal’s 

Athletic Conference Tournament for the 

fourth straight year with eight individual 

league champions. In the post season, they 

won the Sectional and District 

Championships and advanced seven 

wrestlers to the OHSAA State Wrestling 

Tournament in Columbus. 

Outstanding individual accomplishments 

included Junior Nathan Tomasello 

winning his third state championship. For 

the second year in a row, Nathan finished 

the season undefeated and is ranked #1 in 

the nation at 

his weight 

class. Senior 

Matt Meadows 

also won a 

state championship 

at the 

220 lbs. weight 

class. Matt finished 

the season 

with a 46- 

1 record and 

also ranked in 

the top ten 

nationally for his weight class. He totaled 

154 career victories in his four years at 

CVCA. Senior David Gray won a District 

Championship and finished 7th in the 

State at the 170 lbs. weight class. David 

finished his senior year 

with 119 career victories. 

Freshman Ryan 

Bennett, also a District 

Champion, finished 4th 

in the State at the 106 

lbs. weight class. Junior 

Josh Decatur became a 

two-time state place 

winner by finishing 8th 

in the State at 132 lbs. 

Two sophomores 

became state placers, 

with Ricky Simonelli 

Matt Meadows, Senior 

State Champions Nathan 

Tomasello and Matt Meadows 

finishing 7th in the State at 126 lbs. and 

Jeff Hojnacki finishing 8th in the State at 

145 lbs. All seven wrestlers who advanced 

to the state tournament finished in the top 

8 in their weight class. The team also had 

three other wrestlers finish as State 

Alternates: Freshman Andy Dobben at 120 

lbs., Sophomore Tyler Maclellan at 160 

lbs., and Junior Nick Havener at 182 lbs. 

We give God the glory for blessing 

the wrestling program and for anything 

that is accomplished on or off the mat. 

“ We give God the glory… ” 


ATHLETICS 

Record-Setting Season for Royal Hockey Team 

The CVCA Royals Hockey Team 

closed out their best season in history with 

a 24-8-1 total record and 21-7-1 regular 

season record. The Royals captured the 

CVCA/Kent State Christmas Tournament 

Championship and the Parma MLK 

Tournament Championship, made it to 

the semi-final of the Baron Cup 

Tournament, and went to the second 

round of the District Tournament. Several 

Royals set new school records, and several 

state records were approached or broken. 

It was truly a record-breaking season as the 

Royals purposed to live as “living sacrifices 

holy and pleasing to God.” 

The team was led by the three seniors, 

Assistant Captains John Wilson and Jon 

Hart, and Captain Mark Brower. Their 

servant leadership set the standard for a 

team loaded with strong young leaders. 

John Wilson had an outstanding season 

until it was cut short by injury. John’s 

tenacious fore check was sorely missed at 

Luke Sunde Named 

Player of The Year! 

Junior forward Luke Sunde 

was named the Greater Cleveland 

High School Hockey Blue League 

Player of the Year. Luke broke two 

state scoring records in 2012 and 

set a new state single season scoring 

record tallying an amazing 

136 points (77 goals, 59 assists). 

He also set a new state career 

goal scoring record of 172 goals 

in only his junior year. Luke was 

also named to the Blue All- 

League 1st Team for the third season 

in a row. Congratulations 

Luke on an outstanding season! 

the end of the season. He finished the season 

with 10 points. Jon Hart’s physical 

play has been a mainstay for the Royal 

defense for the past four years, and his 20 

points this year added a scoring threat to 

the back line. Captain Mark Brower had 

an outstanding season, playing multiple 

positions and doing whatever was asked. 

Mark finished the season with 

62 points and was named to the 

Blue East All Division Team. 

His overtime goal to win the 

Parma MLK Tournament Championship 

was a season highlight. He closed out his 

prolific CVCA career with 173 points. 

The Royals’ junior class certainly left 

their mark also. Junior goaltender Jonah 

Savitt set school records for season wins by 

a goaltender (19 wins), save percentage 

(89.7%) and shutouts in a season (3). 

Jonah was named to the Blue East All 

Division Team. 

Junior Mark Sunde shattered his own 

school record of 46 assists in a season, by 

tallying a remarkable 66 assists. Recording 

an amazing 120 points, Mark also shattered 

the school record of 85 points in a season, 

previously held by brother Luke Sunde. 

Named to the All-League team as well as 

the Blue East All Division Team, Mark 

stands just 20 assists shy of the all-time 

Ohio High School assist record for a career. 

Junior Luke Sunde had a season for 

the record books. Luke finished the season 

with an astounding, new state record, 136 

points. Luke’s 77 goals this season put him 

at the top of the all-time career goal leaders 

in the state of Ohio at 172 goals and 

counting. Luke needs just 32 points to be 

the all-time career point leader in Ohio 

High School Hockey history. Luke was 

named to the All-League Team for the 

third straight year as well as the Blue East 

All Division Team. 

“ …holy and pleasing to God. ” 

Junior forward Will Anderson also 

had a prolific season. Will finished the season 

with 55 points and was outstanding 

on the penalty kill all season. Junior Zach 

Longo’s solid play on defense, along with 

his 19 points, bolstered the team’s success. 

Junior forward Aaron Corpora recovered 

from injury and was a valuable contributor, 

as was junior transfer Jordan Beard. 

Sophomore forward Andrew Pruitt 

showed great improvement this year, finishing 

with 10 points. Freshman defenseman 

Tucker Anderson had a stellar rookie 

season, finishing the year with 21 points 

and was named to the All-League and Blue 

East All Division Team. 

New to the Royals this season were 

freshmen Will Lowenkamp, Bowe 

Andrews, Christian Teodecki, and freshman 

goaltender Moe Sloan, and sophomore 

Paul Heisey. The future looks bright 

for the Royals as they move to the more 

competitive White Division for the 2012- 

2013 season. 


ATHLETICS 

Royal Swimmers Grow as a Team 

Although swimming is considered an 

individual sport, this year the swimming 

Royals found that team work made a difference 

in the pool. Though small in number, 

both the boys’ and girls’ teams found a 

unique camaraderie that produced special 

memories and enjoyment. 

Each swimmer experienced wonderful 

growth and improvement. The team sent 

Graham Burnell, Senior 

the majority of its members on to competition 

at the District level. Seniors Josh 

Knisley and Nick Donel joined us this year 

bringing a friendly note and pleasant leadership 

to our team. Our two veteran 

seniors, Renee Ormond and Graham 

Burnell, rounded things out with strong 

performances in the water. Renee made it 

to the podium with an 8th place finish in 

the 100 fly at Districts, an event she surprisingly 

developed this year. She is the 

fastest female swimmer in the 100 fly in 

CVCA history. Graham realized his goals 

this year after a 

shocking near 

miss last year 

with a trip to 

State in both of 

his individual 

events. He finished 

his high 

school swimming 

career 

with a 14th 

place finish in 

the State in the 

200 Individual 

Medley and a 17th place finish in the 100 

fly. Both Renee and Graham hope to continue 

swimming at the college level. 

“We were pleased with all that we saw 

from every team member,” shared Coach 

Heather Bailey Rios ’89, “from our seniors 

all the way to our new swimmers.” 

Freshman Madeline Carroscia burst into 

the swimming pool this year showing a 

great feel for the water, while both juniors 

Eric Vlahos and Christian Hanz continued 

to wow everyone with constant time 

drops and surprising improvements. 

Our focus this year was on our 

mouth. We concentrated on Ephesians 

4:29: “Do not let any unwholesome talk 

come out of your mouths, but only what is 

helpful for building others up according to 

their needs that it may benefit those who 

listen.” God gives us clear instruction 

about what should come out of our 

mouth. We tried to be constantly aware 

that our words carry an impact and that 

verbal habits are highly contagious. We 

recognized that the attitude of our heart 

makes the difference. 

For a swimmer, just about every part 

of the body is used to compete effectively, 

even the mouth. For each of us as a team, 

we finish this season with a shout of praise 

to glorify the Lord Who gives us all things. 

“ 

We recognized that the attitude of our heart makes the difference. 

” 

An Exciting Season for 

Boys’ Basketball at CVCA 

The CVCA boys’ basketball team finished off another successful season with a 

16-7 record. The Royals finished 2nd in the PAC and advanced to the Stow District 

semi-finals after defeating Tallmadge in the Sectional Championships. Seniors 

Aundre Burton and John Allen provided some great leadership for the hustling 

Royals team. Their great team spirit will certainly be missed. Several players earned 

post season recognition including 1st Team PAC selections by juniors Caleb 

Kleibscheidel and Bob Peters. Sophomore Marty Lee was named to the Honorable 

Mention PAC squad. Bob, who scored his 1,000th career point this season, was also 

named to the NE Inland District First Team while Caleb was an Honorable Mention 

selection. Several other Royals made tremendous contributions to the team’s success 

including juniors Elijah Brook, Alex Punka, Tony Carroscia, and Arthur Dunkley 

along with sophomore Terry Moorer and freshman Michael Peters who had fine seasons 

for the Royals. 

The future is wide open for the Royals if they choose to seize the day and commit 

to working on their skills as they are young and talented. 

John Allen, Senior 


ATHLETICS 

Cassie Wilson, Senior 

Lady Royals Play 

Impressive Basketball 

The Lady Royals’ basketball team finished the 2011-2012 season when it lost in 

the district semi-finals to returning state champions Hathaway Brown. With an 

impressive final record of 16-7, the Lady Royals played an up-tempo style of basketball 

that relied on defense, outside shooting, and aggressive play on their way to averaging 

60 points per game while only giving up 41 points per game. The 2011-2012 Lady 

Royals set a team record of 80 three-point shots for the season, while recording 328 

steals on the year. 

Senior Cassie Wilson led the Royals in both points and rebounds (15 points and 

10 rebounds per game). Cassie was named 1st Team All PAC, 2nd team Tri-County 

Coaches Association, 2nd Team All Northeast Inland District, and All Ohio 

Honorable Mention. Also receiving honors this year were sophomores Ashley Tyna 

and Halston Maresh. Ashley was named 1st Team All PAC, Tri-County Coaches 

Association Honorable Mention, and 3rd Team All Northeast Inland District, while 

Halston was named All PAC Honorable Mention and Tri-County Coaches 

Association Honorable Mention. Other major contributors to the Lady Royals this season 

were LeAunna Mallard, Megan Foley, Angelica Owen, Natalie Silk, Lauren 

Letner, and Amanda Wesley. 

New Bowling Club Starts at CVCA 

The Lord opened many doors, and 

we were able to begin a new Bowling Club 

at CVCA. Plans began in the Spring of 

2011 to find out how to join the Greater 

Summit Conference bowling league. We 

met with Jim Mansfield, Manager at 

Stonehedge Bowling Center, and he generously 

offered to host our team and also 

graciously gave our bowlers extra bowling 

time throughout the season. We are very 

grateful to Jim and the Stonehedge staff 

for their love and generosity. 

Our inaugural season began in 

November with 13 students – nine men 

and four women. We bowled as a co-ed 

boys’ squad, both varsity and JV. Jim 

Fishel graciously stepped in to coach with 

assistance from Nova Buchanan. Other 

blessings that came our way included the 

generous donation of several bowling balls 

to our students. Few members of the team 

had any bowling experience prior to 

November, so having their own equipment 

improved their game immensely. 

Junior James Fishel set the mark for 

the club’s future by bowling over 5800 

pins in 30 games and setting the team-high 

average of 194. Other members showing 

incredible improvement in a short threemonth 

period include juniors Anthony 

Genova, Antonio DiBiasio, Casey Claflin, 

Skylar Mihalik, and Evan Kovar. Strong 

performances were turned in by sophomore 

Lauren Fishel and freshmen Joseph 

DiBiasio and Matt Genova. The other 

“ The Lord opened many doors… ” 

members of our club include senior 

Christian Corpora, and freshmen Leah 

Corpora, Danae Haynes and Riana Pogue 

who all improved their skills. 

Our season finished 3-11, but we 

expect an even larger participant base next 

year and hope to field both boys’ and girls’ 

squads. 


ECHOES 

News from CVCA Alumni 

Congratulations 

& Celebrations 

ENGAGEMENTS: 

Erin Rhodes ’06 to Peter Shenk; wedding December 1, 2012. 

Mike Wilson ’06 to Val Wrona; wedding July 28, 2012. 

Katie Beirne ’07 to Alex Tavani ’07; wedding June 30, 2012. 

WEDDINGS: 

5/14/2011 Alyssa Bergen ’07 to Zechariah Nitz ’07 

6/4/2011 Mary Lilly ’05 to Jeff Lawther 

7/3/2011 LT Newland ’04 to Audra Lehman 

8/7/2011 Chelsea DiPaolo ’05 to Colby Long 

11/13/2011 Kristin Bennett ’06 to Nathanial Lance ’06 

12/31/2011 Philip Atanmo ’04 to DeAnn Stowell 

BIRTHS: 

Angela (Allen) Herblet ’98 and Jason: daughter, Grace Maria, 

born January 15, 2012. 

Jared Carr ’99 and Bethany: daughter, Charlotte Elizabeth, born 

November 13, 2011. 

Joy (Hyde) Blough ’00 and Keith: daughter, Leah Marie, born 

November 23, 2011. 

Hannah (Carr) Crossin ’01 and Bill: son, William George, born 

June 12, 2011. 

Check out www.cvcaroyals.org. The website contains information 

about CVCA athletics, school events, alumni news and more. 

Use the website to also update your contact information and to 

send items for future issues of The Trumpeter/Echoes. 

Have you moved? The CVCA Advancement Office desires to 

maintain an accurate database for the purpose of staying in 

touch with alumni and providing contact information for class 

reunions. Please notify the Alumni Relations Coordinator (330- 

929-0575, ext. 402) with contact information updates (address, 

phone, e-mail) or submit your data online by completing the 

form available in the Alumni section of the CVCA website. 

We would appreciate information on alumni whose stories 

should be shared with the CVCA community. Please contact 

alumni@cvcaroyals.org with suggestions for future issues. 



1970s 

Vicki (Evans) Zacharias ’73, 

who earned an Early Elementary 

Education degree from The 

University of Akron, is now 

employed at Bethel Lutheran 

Church as Administrative 

Assistant to the Pastor. Vicki has 

two grown daughters and lives 

in North Royalton with her husband, 

Lee. 

1990s 

Julie (Heath) Atkinson ’90 

writes: “After spending 16 years 

living in the UK (Belfast, 

Northern Ireland, and 

Cambridge, England) we have 

moved back to North America 

and are living in Rothesay, New 

Brunswick, Canada where Paul is 

an Associate Professor at 

Dalhousie University, in the 

Department of Emergency 

Medicine. I teach American 

History at UNB. Our three children 

are thriving in their new 

environment. Canada provides a 

wonderful mix of British, French, 

and American culture for our 

international family.” 

Jared Carr ’99 and wife, 

Bethany, welcomed their second 

child, Charlotte Elizabeth, 

on November 13, 2011. She 

joins big brother, Wesley 

Edward, age 2. 

Andy Vogel ’99, head wrestling 

coach at Gettysburg College in 

Pennsylvania, was recently recognized 

for his wrestling career 

at Messiah College by being 

named to Messiah’s All-Time 

Wrestling Team in celebration of 

the school’s last 40 years of 

competition. In addition, he was 

named to their “Dream Team,” 

as a representative of the top 

wrestler at each weight class. 

Andy is a CVCA Athletic Hall of 

Fame recipient, honored in 2006 

for his wrestling successes at 

CVCA, including state runner-up 

in 1998 and state champion in 

1999. Andy and his wife Janet 

live in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. 

2000s 

David Barry ’00 writes: “I was 

married on September 3, 2011, 

and live in Tampa, Florida where 

my wife Deanna is a pediatric 

resident and I work in medical 

sales.” 

Joy (Hyde) Blough ’00 writes: 

“Keith and I were blessed with 

another child just in time for 

Thanksgiving. Leah Marie was 

born 11/23/11 and weighed in 

at a healthy 8 lbs 1oz and 20-1/2 

inches long. She joins her big 

brother Lucas (age 2).” 

Hannah (Carr) Crossin ’01 and 

husband, Bill, welcomed their 

first child, William George, on 

June 12, 2011. 

Heather Moore ’02 has recently 

earned a Master of Education in 

Community Counseling at Kent 

State University and is working 

as a Program Administrator at 

Oriana House, Inc., assisting 

people referred from the criminal 

justice center. She lives in 

Cuyahoga Falls and is in the 

process of planning for her wedding 

in Las Vegas, Nevada for 

August 2012.

ECHOES 

Philip Atanmo ’04 writes: “On 

December 31, 2011, I married 

my college sweetheart DeAnn 

Stowell. DeAnn and I currently 

live in Greensboro, North 

Carolina, but we will soon be 

travel nurses looking to everything 

this country and maybe 

the world has to offer.” 

LT Newland ’04 married fellow 

Moody graduate, Audra Lehman 

on July 3, 2011. LT and Audra live 

in Cuyahoga Falls where LT continues 

as a faculty member at 

CVCA. Audra is employed at BBS 

& Associates and coached the 

CVCA JV volleyball team last fall. 

Chelsea (DiPaolo) Long ’05 

writes: “I met my husband Colby 

through an 11-month mission 

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT 

Missionary Pilot in Training 

Jonathan Weaver ’02, graduated from Kent State 

University with a degree in Aeronautical Studies and has been 

working at the Kent State 

Airport as a flight 

instructor and mechanic. 

After serving in shortterm 

aviation ministry in 

past years, he is currently 

raising support to go to 

Zambia on a two-year 

commitment with Flying 

Mission, whose ministry 

facilitates the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ through 

aviation, training, and care ministries. Jonathan plans to participate 

in pre-field training at JAARS in North Carolina in 

September and leave for Zambia in January, pending his support 

levels. He will be responsible for flying missionaries, doctors, 

and supplies to hard-to-reach areas in Zambia. 

Please contact Jonathan through his blog at 

www.weaversworldtravels.blogspot.com. 


Double Miracle of Life 

Tammie (Ray) Purcell 

’88 and husband, Scott, welcomed 

new baby, William 

Joseph (Liam) on August 27, 

2011. Liam was born one 

month premature, the same 

day Tammie was taken by 

ambulance to Akron City 

Hospital with severe chest 

pain. Diagnosed with an 

aortic dissection that 

required immediate surgery, 

she underwent an emergency Caesarean. Two hours later, 

Tammie was taken by helicopter to the Cleveland Clinic 

where the surgeon on call that night, Dr. Eric Roselli, specializes 

in aortic dissection repair. The eight-hour procedure, 

though very complicated, was successful. After a 

week, Liam was released from the NICU of Akron 

Children’s Hospital, and Tammie finally “met” her newborn 

son. Tammie shares, “God deserves all the thanks He 

gets for the answered prayers and the miraculous way He 

took care of both Liam and me.” Tammie and Liam’s story 

about the miracle of life appeared on the front-page of the 

Akron Beacon Journal on Christmas Day of 2011, and can 

be accessed at ohio.com. Tammie is employed at Akron’s 

Firestone High School where she is the AP European/ 

World History Teacher and Cheerleading Coach. 

trip called the World Race. From 

August 2009 to July 2010, we 

traveled the world doing various 

mission projects. After dating 

long distance for a year (I was in 

Ohio, he was in California), we 

were married on August 7, 2011. 

We live in Fullerton, California, 

where I am attending grad 

school at Cal State Fullerton. I'm 

in a two-year Master of 

Education program studying 

TESOL (Teaching English to 

Speakers of Other Languages). 

My goal is to either teach 

English to non-native speakers 

here in California or perhaps 

overseas. Colby is a physical 

education teacher for elementary 

students.” 

Mary Lilly ’05 married Jeff 

Lawther on June 4, 2011. She 

graduated from The University 

of Akron with a bachelor’s in 

English and is currently 

employed in Accounts Payable 

at National Interstate. Mary and 

Jeff live in Cuyahoga Falls. 

Kristin (Bennett) Lance ’06 

writes: “Nate Lance ’06 and I 

were married November 13, 

2011, at The Chapel in Akron. In 

2010, Nate graduated from 

Baldwin-Wallace College with a 

degree in Political Science and I 

graduated from The University 

of Akron with a double major in 

Marketing and Sales Management. 

We currently reside in 

Pentagon City, overlooking our 

nation’s capitol. Nate works as a 

Development Event Associate at 

The Heritage Foundation, a conservative 

think tank, and I work 


ECHOES 

as a Marketing Coordinator at 

POLITICO, a political journalism 

organization. Christ has truly 

blessed our marriage as we start 

our new life together in a fun 

and exciting city!” 

Alyssa Bergen ’07 and Zac Nitz 

’07, both graduates of Indiana 

Wesleyan University, were married 

May 14, 2011 and live in 

Akron. Zac is an RN at Akron 

General Medical Center on the 

telemetry unit. Alyssa is 

employed at Sylvan Learning 

Center and substitutes at CVCA 

for 7th grade English classes 

while faculty member, Taylor 

(Bissonette) Lombardi ’04 is on 

maternity leave. 

Will Terrill ’07, a graduate of 

Rose-Hulman Institute of 

Technology, was married June 

11, 2011 to Emily Dentler and 

now resides in Kent while 

attending NEOMED. 

Brian Blake ’08 writes: “I will be 

graduating from Emory 

University in May and will join 

PNC RiverArch Capital, the private 

equity division of PNC 

Bank, in Pittsburgh. I look forward 

to being an involved and 

active alumnus of CVCA and 

would love to meet anyone in 

the Pittsburgh area.” 


Alumni Composer 

Krista (Wilson) Thomas ’08, a student 

at Moody Bible Institute, shares 

how her song was selected as the 2012 

Founder’s Week theme song: 

“Each year the Moody Bible Institute 

Sacred Music Department has a themesong 

writing contest. All Moody students 

(not just music majors) are encouraged to write a song 

based on the Founder’s Week theme. This year’s theme was ‘The 

Hope Within Us.’ In September, the Lord gave me an idea, and 

over the next few months I wrote a song entitled ‘In God.’ I 

turned it in to the judges believing there was little chance it 

would be selected because it is more contemporary in nature than 

past winners. Later, I was surprised to find I had won! The committee 

was pleased with the depth of the lyrics and kindly helped 

me through the editing process. 

I was blessed when Tim Stafford (Moody Church Music 

Director) lead the Founder’s Week congregation as they sang the 

music the Lord had given me. Later I was asked to sing with the 

team. I was not prepared for how overwhelming and glorious that 

would be. I have been encouraged by stories of people blessed as 

they sang, listened on the radio, or watched the conference online. 

I am now working on a second edit of the song. We hope to 

have pdf and mp3 versions available soon. They will most likely 

be on foundersweek.org. 


A Role Model in Medicine 

Dr. Brandon Smith ’02 “worked extremely hard and always 

displayed a positive attitude,” commented Dr. Maria Ramundo, 

Director of the Pediatric Residency Program and Associate Chair 

of Pediatrics at Akron Children’s Hospital, Department of 

Medical Education. Brandon is a recent graduate of that residency program. 

At CVCA, Brandon worked extremely hard with a positive attitude, and graduated 

co-valedictorian of his class. In addition to lettering in three sports (football, basketball, 

and track), he was a member of the National Honor Society and C.A.T.S., and the recipient 

of several “book awards” for academic achievement. He was also honored his senior 

year as an OHSAA Scholar-Athlete and a CVCA Royal Servant (top athletic award). 

Brandon earned a degree in Integrated Life Sciences from Kent State University, 

attended NEOUCOM (Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine) and graduated 

in 2008 with a Doctor of Medicine degree, and completed his pediatrics residency 

at Akron Children’s Hospital. During his residency, he won several awards including the 

Heart Center Award, James S. Clark Award (Emergency Medicine), and Neonatal 

Critical Care Award. Brandon is currently in a Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship at the 

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. 

Dr. Ramundo also shared, “Not only is Dr. Brandon Smith extremely intelligent, 

but he was a professional at all times and respectful and supportive of his patients, families, 

and colleagues. Dr. Smith was a role model for other trainees to emulate.” 

In May 2010, Brandon married Shurrell (Suttles), R.N. They are living in Michigan 

while he completes the fellowship, and are expecting their first child in late spring. 

2012 CLASS REUNIONS 

Class of 1972 – 40th Reunion – Date TBA 

Coordinator Needed 

Class 1977 – 35th Reunion – Date TBA 


Class 1982 – 30th Reunion – June 16, 4:00 p.m. 

Coordinator: Scott Marsh, sfm4@texaschristianchurch.org 







Class of 2002 – 10th Reunion – Homecoming, October 5-6 

Coordinator: Amy Allen, amyallen2009@gmail.com 

See Facebook – CVCA Class of 2002 

Class of 2007 –5th Reunion – July 29 

Coordinator: Zach Wise, Amanda LaCava 

Many coordinators are still needed. Class contact information 

and other helps are available from the Alumni office. 

Contact Mary Taylor, Alumni Relations Coordinator, at 

330-929-0575, ext. 402 or alumni@cvcaroyals.org for 

information. 


ECHOES 

Alumni Enjoy 

Re-connecting for 

Basketball Games 

Former CVCA basketball players gather for more 

than just a game. Their efforts help raise support 

for a fellow Royal alumna. 

December 29 found over 50 former 

CVCA basketball players participating in 

the men’s and women’s alumni games in 

the Tim Beyerle Memorial Gymnasium. 

Organized as a fundraiser for the Glenn 

family by Melissa Knepper ’09, this event 

was planned to honor Jessica Glenn ’09 

who is recovering from treatment for the 

cancer she has been battling for nearly a 

year. 

Melissa 

shares: 

“Though she 

never set foot 

on the court, 

Jessica played a 

vital role in the 

2011 alumni 

games. While 

my former 

teammate, ‘Jslick,’ 

had a 

low white 

blood cell count and was unable to attend, 

her essence filled the CVCA gymnasium 

that night. As our community came 

together to uplift the Glenn family, each 

other, and the name of Christ, we were 

blessed to reconnect and enjoy victory 

beyond competition. Generous donors – 

alumni, parents of alumni, and fans – 

raised nearly 

$2,000.00 

for the 

Glenns’ unexpected medical expenses. Mr. 

and Mrs. Glenn shared an update and 

gave a heart-felt ‘Thank you’ after the 

event. The evening was powerful, but not 

as powerful as the philosophy behind the 

event. According to the CVCA Athletic 

Philosophy, 

coaches 

strive to 

equip ‘our 

student athletes 

for 

their real 

test: life as a 

follower of 

Christ.’ 

That 

Thursday 

night, the 

bridge 

between athletics and real life was evident 

for the community to see. We owe our 

gratitude to the CVCA coaches, Bill 

Stalnaker, Jay Peters, and Jason Herblet, 

for their attendance and help. I especially 

want to thank Ryan Tyna, CVCA’s new 

girls’ head basketball coach and the man 

working behind the scenes. I’m thankful 

Class of 1989 Girls with Melissa Knepper ’09 

Women’s Alumni Basketball Team 

to have had the opportunity to work with 

him and be part of the effort to support 

Jess and her family within the CVCA community. 

May God bless the Glenns, and 

may we continue to come alongside them 

in an effort to show Christ’s love through 

athletics.” 

Special recognition goes to alumni 

representatives from the 70’s and 80’s – 

Bob Mosteller ’76, who competed alongside 

son, Alex ’10, and to four girls from 

the Class of ’89, Jackie Smith Cooper, 

Tracy Bush Eck, Laura Gale Shearer, and 

Julie Vogel Petschke. Thank you to each 

one who took time during Christmas 

break to participate in the games. 

Men’s Alumni Basketball Team 

Mr. and Mrs. Glenn 

share their thanks. 

“…we were blessed 

to reconnect and enjoy 

victory beyond 

competition.” 


ECHOES 

ROYAL MERGERS 

Continue 

to Grow 

In February, speciallydesigned 

Valentine Cards were 

mailed to 110 couples who 

found their marriage partner at 

CVCA. This year’s new couples 

include: 

Garrett ’07 and Megan (Currier) ’07 Brown 

Calvin ’07 and Allison (Thompson) ’07 Franklyn 

Nate ’06 and Kristin (Bennett) ’06 Lance 

Ben ’07 and Mackenzie (Montgomery) ’07 Miller 

Josh ’06 and Kristen (Kametz) ’06 Minnich 

Zach ’07 and Alyssa (Bergen) ’07 Nitz 

Todd ’07 and Sarah (Walker) ’07 Pence 

Joe ’05 and Marissa (Beausoleil) ’05 Rogers 

Thank you to Michelle LaNasa ’05 and faculty member, 

Van Misheff, for their contributions of the logo and poem 

used for the card. 

A Royal Merger Story 

Shared by Mackenzie (Montgomery) Miller ’07 

“Although Ben and I both 

attended CVCA starting in 

the seventh grade, our friendship 

did not blossom until 

the summer after our junior 

year on our school mission 

trip to the Dominican 

Republic. Then in the spring 

of our senior year, we began 

dating. We immediately had a special bond because of our 

love for the Lord and athletics. Being involved in CVCA 

sports gave us both special memories and friendships that we 

will always look back on positively. Also, our senior banquet 

and graduation were very 

significant moments in 

our CVCA history, and 

we are so glad that we 

got to experience them 

together. CVCA played a 

big part in both of our 

lives individually and as a 

couple. We look forward 

to what God has planned 

for our future together 

and seeing what role our 

CVCA family plays as 

well!” 


JON BIERMAN ’04 

Baseball: 

1st – Career Hits – 135 

1st – Career Sacrifices – 13 

1st – Career Stolen Bases – 62 

2nd – Career Runs – 86 

4th – Career RBIs – 81 

4th – Stolen Bases/Season – 20 

6th – Career Batting Avg. – .402 

5th, 7th – Runs scored/Season – 

31, 29 

10th – Batting Avg./Season – .453 

5th – Hits/Season – 39 

8th – RBIs/Season – 28 

ALICIA CATLETTE ’04 

Softball: 

PAC Player of the Year – 2003 

1st – Career Runs – 114 

2nd – Career Singles – 99 

Career Doubles – 23 

Career Hits – 129 

1st, 5th, 8th – Runs/Season – 

36, 26, 22 

2nd, 3rd – Hits/Season 36, 35 – 

2 seasons 

2nd, 3rd, 10th – Singles/Season – 

32, 29, 22 

2nd – Doubles/Season – 10 

3rd, 4th – Base on Balls/Season – 

16, 15 

2nd – Sacrifices/Season – 8 

2nd, 9th – On Base %/Season – 

.614, .524 

3rd – Fielding %/Season – .992 

RYAN CROCKER ’05 

Royal Servant 

Cross Country: 

All-Ohio 

State Finishes – 2nd State, 

16th, 28th 

2nd (15:57) 3rd, 9th best time – 

5000m 

4 time All PAC/2 time MVP – 

2003, 2004 

Track: 

All Ohio – ‘03, ‘05 

State Champ – 3200m – 

’05 – 9:24.00 

3rd at State – ’03 – 9:42.18 

6th at State – 4x800m relay – ‘05 

1st (4:21.75), 5th best time – 

1600m 

1st, 6th, 7th best time – 3200m 

4th, 7th best time – 4x800m relay 

ATHLETIC HALL 

DAVID FOULK ’96 

Soccer: 

4-yr starter on state-ranked teams 

(State semi-finalist ’93) 

All Ohio Div II – 2nd team 

1st team All District 

1st Team All Tri-County 

Beacon Journal First Team 

Track: 

1st Team All State – 4th place finish 

in 4x100 relay 

1st and 5th best time – 4x100 relay 

WHITNEY HOLMES ’04 

Royal Servant 

Basketball: 

2nd – Career Points – 1154 

6th, 8th – Points/Season – 357, 342 

4th, 7th – Points/Single Game – 

33, 25 

7th – Career Scoring Avg. – 13.4 ppg 

10th – Avg. Pts/Season – 16.3 

4th, 7th – Steals/Season – 91, 79 

7th – FT%/Season – 69.7% 

7th – 3pt.%/Season – 10/28 35.7% 

KAI KASIGURAN ’04 

Soccer: 

All-State – 2 time, All Midwest – 

2 time 

All American, Academic 

All American 

1st – Career Total Scoring – 

63 goals, 63 assists 

1st – Career Assists – 63 

1st – Career Goals – 63 

1st – Goals /Season – 24 

1st, 2nd, 4th – Assists/Season – 

21, 20, 15 

1st, 2nd – Total Scoring/Season – 

goals 24, assists 20, goals 20, 

assists 21 

MIKE LAUGHLIN ’03 

Baseball: 

2nd – Strikeouts/Game – 13, 2 

seasons 

3rd – Strikeouts/Game – 12, 2 

seasons 

2nd – Career Strikeouts – 181 

4th – Career Wins – 10 

5th – Season ERA – 1.76 

5th (tie) – Wins/Season – 5 

3rd, 4th – Strikeouts/Season – 72, 67 

10th – Career ERA – 3.25

ECHOES 

OF FAME 2012 INDUC TEES 

Congratulations to CVCA’s recent 

Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees. They were 

recognized on Friday, January 20, 2012 at a 

dinner in their honor hosted by the 

Athletic Department. 

Following are excerpts from testimonies 

shared by this year’s inductees: 

JONATHAN BIERMAN ’04 

“I have countless memories of my 

wonderful years at CVCA and am grateful 

for the opportunity to attend a school in 

which God is the main focus. It was in 

those years God molded me into the individual 

I am today and…that I learned to be 

a Christian man. I will always remember 

my coaches and teammates… The Lord has 

opened my eyes to new adventures and provided 

for me in ways I never could have 

imagined. Even though work and school 

take a significant amount of my time, I find 

time to devote to following God and 

embracing His Word. My daily devotions 

are an important part of my life as they 

remind me to continuously try to be more 

Christ-like. Jesus is still and always will be 

the most important part of my life!” 

ALICIA CATLETTE ’04 

“During my time at CVCA, I enjoyed 

a softball career rich with blessings. These 

blessings did not only include success on 

the playing field, but I was also blessed by 

the relationships I built through athletics. 

When my time at CVCA was through, I 

continued my athletic career at Ohio 

University. I knew that I would encounter 

many challenges both on and off the competition 

field that I had possibly never 

encountered prior in this new and very secular 

environment. However, I also knew 

that CVCA had prepared me to face such 

challenges head on.” 

RYAN CROCKER ’05 

“In the four years that comprised my 

high school career, I spent much of the first 

half trying to figure out how God could 

work through me using the gift of running. 

It was in the second half that I learned how 

much my passion for running and competing 

could become an avenue for understanding 

His love and sharing it with others. 

With some particularly disappointing 

months of training before my senior year, I 

finally began to understand that I needed 

to fully invest my running talents in bringing 

honor to Christ to find satisfaction and 

fulfillment in the effort I was exerting. 

Learning to fully rely on God and to find 

my value in Him came through running 

and has helped me to develop a stronger 

walk with Christ.” 

DAVID FOULK ’96 

“I have recently finished my training 

in orthopaedic sports medicine and currently 

practice in Orlando, Florida… At 

CVCA my faith matured and further 

strengthened the previous foundation laid 

down by the Biblical teachings learned 

through grade school. While participating 

in soccer at the collegiate level at Wheaton, 

our motto was “Kopion” which means to 

labor for the Lord until one is utterly 

exhausted. It is my desire to take all that I 

have learned and experienced in my personal 

life and educational career and apply 

it wholeheartedly for the sole purpose of 

pleasing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

As we are commanded: In everything, give 

glory to the Lord.” 

WHITNEY HOLMES ’04 

“Just as I saw my athletic career at 

CVCA as something that I did for fun to 

maintain a healthy lifestyle and my friendships, 

others saw as something more. This 

has been the distinct essence of how the 

Lord has worked in my life and turned my 

mundane efforts into wonderful talents 

Kai Kasiguran ’04, Jon Bierman ’04, and Whitney Holmes ’04 

and gifts… All of the wonderful tools I was 

using, which I didn’t think were special or 

important, God turned and used for something 

larger than I could have imagined. 

This reminds me of the phrase, ‘He makes 

all things new.’ Doesn’t He?” 

KAI KASIGURAN ’04 

“Since I retired from professional soccer 

approximately one year ago, the Lord 

has taught me, grown me, and developed 

me in countless ways. Leaving soccer 

behind was difficult, but I stepped out on 

faith and he has rewarded me. Despite a 

busy schedule, the Lord has given me the 

strength to lead in various areas. I led my 

church summer VBS program, started a 

church choir (and am the director of the 

choir), am part of a small group, and am a 

leader in the youth group. Why do I list 

these involvements? It has nothing to do 

with me. Apart from Christ, I am nothing. 

But God has given me the desire to be 

involved, and He’s provided the strength 

to do so.” 

MIKE LAUGHLIN ’03 

“During my six-year stint at CVCA, I 

made life-long friends while going to 

school and playing sports. Much like my 

time at CVCA, it still feels like the Lord is 

preparing and developing me to become 

the man He wants me to be. I look forward 

to new chapters in life that the Lord 

has prepared for me.” 

Coach Jeff Johnson and Mr. Catlette 

Norm ’78 and Ryan ’05 Crocker 

(both members of the CVCA Athletic Hall of Fame) 

Mr. and Mrs. Foulk

Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy 

4687 Wyoga Lake Road 

Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44224 

(330) 929-0575 


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Congratulations to our Royals Wrestling Team! 

The Royals advanced seven wrestlers to the OHSAA State Wrestling Tournament in Columbus: 

back row: Matt Meadows placed 1st front row: Nathan Tomasello placed 1st 

Jeff Hojnacki placed 8th 

Ricky Simonelli placed 7th 

David Gray placed 7th 

Ryan Bennett placed 4th 

Josh Decatur placed 8th 

In addition to their first place State honors, Nathan Tomasello is now ranked first in the nation in his 

weight class and Matt Meadows is ranked in the top ten nationally. Congratulations!

Winter 2012 - Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy

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