falcon network - Bishop Fenwick High School

FALCON NET WOR K
SPRING 2015 EDITION
Building Relationships...
Bishop Fenwick
HIGH SCHOOL
Est. 1952
Contents
B U I L D I N G R E L AT I O N S H I P S
1
3
5
B OA R D O F T R U S T E E S
PA R E N T S C L U B
C U LT U R E
S P OT L I G H T S
7
9
F AC U LT Y
STUDENTS
13
15
18
AT H L E T I C H A L L O F F A M E I N D U C T I O N
AT H L E T I C H A L L O F F A M E 2 0 T H C E L E B R AT I O N
C L A S S N OT E S
IN MEMORIAM
NEW TRADITIONS
19
F A L C O N D AY
1
Falcon Field Day
2
Junior/Senior Prom
3
Spring Instrumental Concert
13
Underclassmen Awards
18-22
Exams
20
Baccalaureate Mass & Senior Awards Banquet
22
Graduation, Last Day of School
26-28
Fenwick Festival
28
8th Grade Mass & Celebration, Class of 2019
July
6-12
School Closed for Maintenance
August
1
Kyle Babcock Memorial Event
12
First Day of School
September
PHILANTHROPY
20
May
June
ALUMNI NEWS
11
UPCOMING EVENTS
SCHOLARSHIP
e Falcon Network is an official publication of Bishop Fenwick High School for alumni
family, and iends. All rights reserved. Care is taken to provide accurate information. We
apologize if an error has occurred. Please contact Robin Blank, Development Specialist,
rblank@fenwickfalcons.org with any suggestions or concerns.
S av e t h e D ate!
20
Golden Falcon Alumni Brunch
23
Evening in the Courtyard - Wine Tasting
October
16-17
Homecoming Weekend
Homecoming Alumni Tailgate,
October 16, 2015
ON THE COVER: Named Scholarship Brunch, February 11, 2015
Photo of senior football players and alumni who presented Scott Bruggeman ‘88 with a #66 Fenwick Falcons signed player helmet in recognition for Scott’s service to the armed forces during Desert Storm and career as a fireman. Scott, his parents, Dave
‘66 and Ginger ‘67, and Scott’s nephew Tim ‘08, attended the brunch on behalf of the Frank A. and Patricia Lolli Scholarship.
(Seated) Tommy Trimbach ‘15, Scott Bruggeman ‘88, Dave ‘66 and Ginger Lolli Bruggeman ‘67
(Standing) Luke Sennett ‘15, Andrew Nix ‘15, Jacob Clary ‘15, Jon Croake-Uleman ‘88, John Willenbrink ‘88 and Tim
Bruggeman ‘08.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much uit;
John 15:5
apart om me you can do nothing.”
Dear Fenwick Family,
With each passing day I am reminded of the scripture quote above and how beautifully it describes our school. Being a Catholic school
affords the opportunity to do much in terms of who we are and the graduates we send out into the world. Our students grow in the
knowledge of what it means to be Christ-centered and to live and grow as people of character and service.
Our campus ministry program continues to grow as it feeds the poor and helps the needy through mission/service programs and takes
care of our own within our family when families need assistance.
Our academics grow as we added a College Credit Plus chemistry class and challenged students to continue to reach for excellence in their
work. Our course of studies has been modified to add Honors classes and civil engineering. We have gone through the accreditation
process and been validated by outside educators for what we do and the direction we are heading.
Our sports and activities continue to provide a top-notch experience for our students, learning the value of sportsmanship and teamwork.
Across the board, students have a variety of opportunities to be involved and strengthen their own skills.
Our development efforts grow as we build bridges to our past, honoring our championship teams of 1973 & 1974 along with the accomplished alumni of our Athletic Hall of Fame. We continue to build bridges as we recently held our second annual Named Scholarship
Brunch so that student recipients know there are people who support our school; giving so others can enjoy a Catholic education at
Bishop Fenwick High School.
Our enrollment grows as students and families hear about who we are and what we do here. People see and feel a place of progress, of
movement, of dynamism. Time and time again, I hear from families who tell me that there is a palpable feeling of belonging that they
want to be a part of our home. Visitors, too, feel it as they walk in the door and are greeted by smiling faces and genuine hearts.
Christ runs throughout as the vine from which we grow and develop. He is the anchor that shows us the way to become better in who we
are. We remain in Him and He in us. Because of that, we continue to grow as a people and institution. We are on the move, continuing to
improve and better ourselves. Without Him we can do nothing.
We do what we do because of who we are and the legacy that precedes us. We are proud to be Fenwick!
God Bless!
Andrew J. Barczak
Principal
“Impossible” is Nothing !
"Impossible!" at's the word he used. Back in the fall of 2007, I was the men's varsity soccer
coach at Fenwick and aer the season, I was talking to the father of one of my players about one
of our first years in the GCL league (GGCL for our Lady Falcon teams).
Aer watching us dominate the old MML league, this father lamented the challenge of playing
the GCL schools. "How can we compete with the bigger schools? Impossible," he said.
What could I say? Although I was extremely proud of that team, we struggled our first year in
the GCL. I had a young team who lacked size and confidence. But I knew with time, those
young men would grow om the lessons they learned that year, become stronger and eventually
develop their talent. ere was great promise in that team and I knew the players would eventually "compete.” ree years later, those same eshmen were seniors and their record against the
so called "big 4" was 2-2-0.
But that brief conversation back in 2007 stayed with me and got me thinking about all things
considered to be "impossible.” Whether it's a person who rises om humble beginnings to become
a star (Louis Armstrong), or the first man to walk amongst stars (Neil Armstrong), or any and
every strong arm in between or since, every story of greatness starts in the same place: impossible. If people lost faith at the point things seemed impossible, many of the greatest human
accomplishments of my lifetime would have never occurred.
BUILD IN G RELATIONSHIP S - BOARD OF TRUSTEES
And as it was with the past stories of greatness, so
it is now with the opportunities Fenwick faces.
Some may think it's impossible for us to tackle
our debt, retain great employees, attract the best
students, become an academic leader in liberal
arts, science and technology, and maintain excellence in sports, extracurriculars and performing
arts. But these challenges are really just opportunities for us to achieve greatness.
No one person can do it. We're a community, and
if we are to reach the goals set by our Board, we'll
need to work together as a community. Board's
top priority is to grow the engagement level at
Fenwick, and we'll measure our progress through
our fundraising and talent retention metrics. If
we succeed, it will be a first step on our path to a
new level of greatness--which our community will
witness through our school's improved tangible
and human resources. I've not considered failure
an option.
We have these opportunities today because just
over 10 years ago, a generous group of people
came together and made the impossible happen:
a new school geographically situated for growth
and success. But as great an accomplishment as
that was, we still carry a $9 million dollar debt,
and every day we face the ongoing struggle to
maintain excellence in Catholic education. We
should remember those past contributions that
brought us here, with sincere gratitude. But we
must also realize our responsibility of stewardship
to provide an even better educational opportunity for the current and future Falcons.
To overcome the impossible, we may need a miracle. I accept that $9 million is a big number and
it may seem impossible. I've observed, however,
that all miracles have one thing in common--a
conversion of the heart. It took a lot of people
believing in the impossible to get us here. We've
done the impossible before. As we face our current challenges and look to the future, I have only
one thing to say: “Impossible is nothing.”
Article Contributed by Andy Vollmar,
Board Trustee Chair
BISHOP FENWICK HIGH SCHOOL:
Board of Limited Jurisdiction
As sanctioned by the Cincinnati Archdiocese,
Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr and Superintendent Dr. Jim Rigg installed a Board of
Limited Jurisdiction (e Board) for Bishop
Fenwick in August 2014. is Board is
subject to the powers and limitations of a
Code of Regulations. e Board, based on
the authority granted by the Archdiocese is
established to act as a decision-making group,
responsible for the governance of the School in the best interests of the School and the
Archdiocese. e former Principals Advisory Board (PAB) was replaced with this Board and
is empowered with broader authority, responsibility and expectation.
Bishop Fenwick Board of Trustees:
•
Board Chair, omas Andrew (Andy) Vollmar, Attorney Partner,
Freund, Freeze and Arnold LPA
•
Board Vice-Chair, Jon Croake-Uleman, COO/Founder, Southwest Ohio Pain
Management Surgery Center
•
Board Secretary, Jennifer L. Brogan, Attorney Partner, Bieser, Greer & Landis, LLP
•
Debby Akers, Owner/Designer, Designs for You
•
Robert Baker, Treasurer, Baker Concrete Construction, Inc.
•
Paul Scherrer, Director of OptoElectronics Group, Sur-Seal Corporation
•
Tom Skinner, Global Safety Manager, Global Clinical Safety & Pharmacovigilance,
INC Research
•
Mike Smith, Owning Partner/VP Sales, Hughes-Peters
2
“If You Come, We Will Build It”
A play of words om the Field of Dreams movie quote
“If you build it, they will come,” the Bishop Fenwick
Parents Club adopted the motto, “If you come, we will
build it.” It references the club’s commitment that if a
parent wants to get involved with the Parents Club,
they will have something for everyone. eir goal is to
guarantee to all current parents, regardless of their
capacity, an opportunity of engagement.
Although the Prom recruits junior parents for aer-prom and “senior specials” offer senior moms the opportunity to host lunch treats there was an
obvious void of an all-inclusive volunteer parent group. When Christine
Iaconis’ daughter Adrianna was a freshman, Christine was recruited by
Robin Blank, Development Specialist, to assist her with running the Falcon
Fan Store. It was very clear early in the process that the Fan Store was a great
opportunity to utilize a team of volunteers to manage all aspects of the Fan
Store, not just working a lunch shi in the store. Christine and Fan Store volunteers were given operational guidelines and financial checks and balances
to manage the Fan Store with some specific goals:
• Design and sell logo approved spirit wear that
supports branding of Bishop Fenwick
Parents Club President Christine Iaconis selling
spirit wear at the Festival
• Consistently and constantly manage inventory
Last summer the Parents Club was launched under the
• Provide value added service/experience to the
Bishop Fenwick community
• Engage parent volunteers
leadership of President Christine Iaconis, Vice President
Lynn Braun, and Treasurer Pauline Bilofsky who guide the
16 person Steering Committee comprised of 4 parent representatives from each grade. Steering Committee members commit to their positions for the full four years of
• Operate at a profit
their child’s high school career. is arrangement builds in
continuity for future years and creates a constant flow of
is empowered experience became a launch for new ideas to broaden par-
new members into the committee. General membership is
ent involvement and incorporate parents to directly support initiatives and
available and encouraged to all parents. e Club has over-
activities to grow and strengthen our community. rough the Develop-
arching support by the school Administration and each
ment Office and energy of Christine Iaconis, Kim Cramer, Joan Welsh and
Parent Club activity/initiative has an assigned school fac-
others, a “straw-man” for a new parent organization was beginning to for-
ulty/staff liaison to strengthen relationships and to create
mulate. A culture shi was in the works!
a collaborative and cooperative environment.
BUILD IN G RELATIONSHIP S - PAREN TS CLUB
Steering Committee members meet on the second Monday of each
month and general membership meetings are held quarterly for planning and sign-up of upcoming events. Each event has a volunteer chair
person who can be a general member or Steering Committee member.
is formula has resulted in effective communication, appropriate authorization and fulfilled expectation of outcome.
Parents Club breaks down their
involvement into three categories:
• Parent Club/Administration Events
• Parent Club/Faculty & Department
Events
Parents assembling over 550 exam week survival kits!
When asked of her personal take-away from the experience as a key
contributor, Christine notes, “It has been very fulfilling to meet so
many parents that otherwise I would never have met, especially outside of Adrianna’s circle of girlfriend moms. Parents Club is an
• Parent Club Guided Events
“inlet” for parents that otherwise might have remained outside the
community.”
Collectively, these activities are spread throughout the school year
What does she say is Parents Club biggest obstacle? “Serving so
beginning in August hosting a parent lunch for parents of transfer
many initiatives from all the various interests is difficult to manage;
students and incoming freshman and ending with a finals week
however, it can be done as evident from this year’s numerous success
donut breakfast during May exams. e range of activities includes
stories.” Her biggest disappointment was that the Class of 2015
planning, organizing, cooking and hosting a variety of events like
never experienced a Homecoming Bonfire as she said, “Four years
the Faculty/Staff Christmas cookie exchange, front line workers for
of planning, four years of rain-outs.” Now, preparing to step down
Falcon Day, creating flower arrangements for the Athletic Hall of
as a current parent and transition to status of “parent of an alumni,”
Fame Induction Ceremony and hosting Parent’s Euchre Night!
she remarked, “I can leave now with a footprint; it is up to others to
maintain it and not let wash away.”
For more information about Parents Club, go to
www.fenwickfalcons.org/Volunteers .
Christmas Cookie Exchange volunteers
is school year Parents Club will support 30 activities! Since August an estimated 150 families have participated in the Parents Club
and/or their sponsored activities. Regardless of time or talent, work
and family schedules, Parents Club is committed to their mission of
“something for everyone!”
Parents enjoying coffee and bagels following an all school Mass
4
Cul ture of F enwick
In February, Scholarship benefactors and students gathered at the Named Scholarship Brunch, (seated) Barb Angel Vonderhaar ‘62, Mike Fulmer ‘62,
Patricia Fulmer,Tom Uhl ‘62, faculty member Christine Minix, Dave Mulligan ‘70 (standing) Jim Vonderhaar, Makenzie Fullerton ‘16, Mitchell Cain ‘18,
Daniel Clary ‘16, Paul Blodgett ‘17
Last summer, aer receiving appointment from Principal Barczak to be the Development Director of Bishop Fenwick, e Development team and I began a series of strategic planning sessions to assess the state-of-affairs and determine our goals and objectives.
e team began with a day-long session at Aileron, a management performance
company, moderated by Aileron President and past parent Joni Fedders. Critical to our
planning sessions was incorporating the planning disciplines learned from the book
written by Chris McChesney and Sean Covey, e 4 Disciplines of Execution. Central
to this book and our planning was establishing our Wildly Important Goal, our WIG!
Aer reviewing the many constituents and groups within our Bishop Fenwick
community, we collectively established our WIG to be “Building Relationships.”
We all agreed that by hosting intentional activities and events spaced throughout the
year, we would build key relationships with alumni, current parents, past parents,
Michael Raiff
special friends, foundations, and business trading partners. ese engagements would
Director of Development
assist us in creating a strong volunteer culture as well as increase our total philanthropic
giving and thus create resources for a thriving and sustainable community in both the short-run and long-term. We believe
so strongly in our WIG that it is written on our office white board for inspiration and as a constant reminder.
BUILD IN G RELATIONSHIP S - CULTURE OF FENWICK
We defined “building relationships” as the means to engage the culture of
Fenwick, a culture that all constituents are “Proud to be Fenwick.” Out of our
analysis and strategic planning was also the recognition that a culture driven by
engaged relationships would require significant changes in the way the Development office would execute the day-to-day business. Focus and effort would
need to include engagement, involvement, recruitment, and empowerment of
our community members and most significantly our current parents. Many of
the successes of the Parents Club that you read about in the previous article are
a result of support and empowerment given to that group. Development
now includes the Parents Club and the Athletic Association in the planning
and strategy process for many activities and events. Both groups have a shared
vision for involvement of current parents to directly support students but they
also embrace alumni and special friends of Fenwick.
Already, the Development team has great examples of collaborative events:
Parents Club worked closely with the Development team and the Alumni
Association to put together an incredible Homecoming Tailgate and State
Championship Celebration hosting over 217 alumni back on campus. e
atmosphere and energy created by this event was incredibly electric and inspired
our alumni to create a new scholarship to help offset tuition for a future Falcon
at Fenwick!
Celebrating the Golden Falcons and benchmark reunions by tying those elder
statesmen of Fenwick with our students and friends of today is critical in
developing a long standing culture of embracement. For the first time in
collaboration with the Hall of Fame and the Athletic department, a commemorative poster identifying our members of the Athletic Hall of Fame recognizing a tradition rich 62 years now hangs for all to see in the main hallway. is
couldn’t have been accomplished without the full commitment of all groups to
focus on the objective of building the relationship between our constituents of
today and those of our past.
Connecting with a special friend, Home City Ice, insures that Fr. Bedel’s
commitment to service and ministry for feeding the poor and the opportunity
for Fenwick students to experience a summer service camp will be assured for the
next 10 years. is investment in our students allows them to meet others and
bring our compassion and service to their worlds. e significant financial commitment of Home City Ice is an example of how Development must seek friends
with philanthropic values who share a common mission.
Scott Bruggeman ‘88 being presented a football helmet by Andrew Nix ‘15 to
honor Scott’s lifetime of military and public service.
For the second year we have taken the time to thank our generous
scholarship benefactors and honor them for their selfless generosity.
eir financial investment in our students lessens the burden of the
high cost of Catholic education and for some families makes the difference between a Catholic, versus a public education.
Engaging our parents, alumni, and other partners through our
newly formed 25 Falcon Summits assists in connecting them to our
current needs and initiatives, making them a valued and impactful
partner in our work at Fenwick.
By building relationships, maintaining focus and diligence to create the best experience for each student during their four years at
Fenwick, the culture, “Proud to be Fenwick,” is sustainable.
God Bless and Go Falcons,
Michael Raiff
Director of Development
Mike has been on staff at BFHS since 2010 serving
initially as the Director of Finance & Operations
before taking the role of Director of Development.
He has two decades of for-profit industry experience and has worked for many years helping other
non-profit groups in strategic fundraising efforts.
Championship team members being introduced on the field during pre-game of Homecoming
6
Interview with Mike Hayes, Assistant Principal:
You have worked in public, charter and Catholic schools as both a
teacher and administrator. What makes a Catholic education special?
-ere is a clear difference in the separation between a Catholic education and all else. A Catholic education provides students with a
community of faith-driven and academically focused students and staff.
Students are surrounded by peers who share a desire to challenge themselves academically as typically 99% of our students are going on to
attend a post-secondary education. e Catholic identity that can be
seen throughout the Archdiocese and notably Bishop Fenwick also
allows students the opportunity to develop as servant leaders while
being pushed by those around them. As a regional Catholic school,
Bishop Fenwick gives students the chance to foster relationships with
students from all over southwest, Ohio which helps expand relational
skills and promotes the well-rounded aspect of the student body. Overall, I truly believe in Catholic education, and I think it provides an
excellent foundation for collegiate, professional, and spiritual growth.
How is BFHS unique or different than other institutions you have been
involved with?
-Bishop Fenwick is unique as it is a regional school that in comparison
to public schools around it, creates an intimate and engaging academic
environment that provides our students the opportunity to truly
develop positive relationships with their teachers and peers. is also
allows our guidance department and the rest of our staff the chance to
focus on specific student-needs while helping to create a compassionate, faith-based environment that our students and staff can feel positive about day-in and day-out.
SPOT LIG HTS - FACULTY
What struck you first about BFHS?
-I’ve known Bishop Fenwick for years having attended the summer
festivals, taking graduate classes on the campus through Xavier University, and having coached baseball against Fenwick for a number of
years. With all that in mind, like most people, I was first struck with
the facility and comprehensive campus that the school stands on while
so many other private institutions are land-locked. Moreover, I’ve been
struck by the great number of individuals and families that care for this
school. For being a “small Catholic school,” Bishop Fenwick has an
overwhelming amount of community support ranging all over the
southwest, Ohio. Having gotten to meet and interact with many of
these individuals and families, I feel truly blessed to be part of this community and to have the chance to serve as a leader within the building.
Mr. Hayes holds a BA in English Literature from e Ohio State
University, a Masters of Education from Xavier University and
is scheduled to fulfill his PhD in Educational Leadership from
the University of Dayton in 2016. He was most recently on staff
with Moeller High School in Cincinnati as an English teacher
and baseball coach, and was appointed as House Dean. He was
one of 90 teachers nation-wide and 1 of 6 in Ohio selected by
Target and Major League Baseball to represent the “2014 Teachers of the Year.” He and his wife Amy, reside in West Chester.
FACULTY
SPOTLIGHT
Sr. Donna Bryant
Sr. Donna Bryant S.C., gave
the school a great reason to
celebrate; reaching a birthday
milestone of 70! The school
held a surprise party for her at
the end of the day with the
band leading her through the
hallway and ending in the
cafeteria to sing happy birthday and serve birthday cake to
everyone!
Photo Above: Final 2014 performance for the Falcon Force Marching Band took place at Grand
National at Lucas Oil Field in Indianapolis.
Jason Umberg
“My goal is to give kids an experience that positively enhances their lives —this can happen in many
ways,” says Jason Umberg, Director of Bands. Since arriving on campus in the fall of 2004, Jason’s
commitment to his goal has yielded great success! is year, 25% of the student body will engage in
music as either a performer or a learner. ese are great statistics for Bishop Fenwick considering
that when he was hired in the summer of 2004, there were only a handful of students who participated in band. Today, Jason directs the Falcon Force Marching Band and what he calls his “side
forces” which include pep band, color and winter guard, winter percussion and jazz ensemble. He
is also responsible for part-time assistants and an army of parent volunteers!
He is very proud of the accomplishments of the students who work tirelessly to continue to improve their competitive performances. e Falcon Force has set next year’s goal as making the finals
for the local MidStates Band Association and to make the semi-finals at Grand Nationals.
Jason has been steadfast in building relationships with other grade schools to establish a foundation for seamless transition from grade school to high school. He works closely with the music programs at St. Francis de Sales, Mother Teresa Catholic Elementary School and John XXIII. Given
Fenwick’s regional position, effective engagement with so many feeder schools challenges
Jason’s time and resources. To that end, he has been working with the
Development Office for a grant request to help fund an expansion of the
feeder program. Bishop Fenwick is the only private school in both Warren
and Butler counties with a marching band.
As he looks to the future, he says, “Improving and expanding our current opportunities in music will always be my goal. Both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the music experience are what I seek to improve.”
Jason is a proud product of Catholic Schools, from grade school through his
masters degree. He graduated from the College of Mount Saint Joseph and received his BA in Music. Mr. Umberg graduated from Xavier University in 2010
with a Masters of Education in school administration. He and his wife Katie, a
teacher at John XXIII, have two children.
S.C.
8
Photo (front row) Haley Hayek, Hannah Kramer, Sydney Watterson, Chloe Kisela, Katie Preston (Back row) Principal Andy Barczak, Kyle Bush,
Vincent Durham,Tayla Manion, Meghan Mulligan and Assistant Principal Mike Hayes. Not Pictured Breanne Johnson
PRO MERITO: Pro Merito medals are awarded annually
to students who achieve straight A's for all four quarters
in the previous school year.The following students earned
straight A's during the 2013-14 school year and received
their respective Pro Merito medal:
Bronze Pro Merito medal (first year recipient)
• Hannah Kramer - Class of 2017, Holy Family Parish
• Tayla Manion - Class of 2016, St. Francis de Sales Parish and School
• Meghan Mulligan - Class of 2015, Holy Family Parish and John
XXIII Catholic Grade School
• Sydney Watterson - Class of 2017, St. Francis de Sales Parish
and School
Silver Pro Merito medal (second year recipient)
• Kyle Bush - Class of 2016, St. Susanna Parish and Royalmont School
• Vincent Durham - Class of 2016, St. Michael Parish and School
• Hayley Hayek - Class of 2016, St. Susanna Parish and School
• Katie Preston - Class of 2015, Holy Family Parish and John XXIII
Catholic School
Gold Pro Merito medal (third year recipient)
• Chloe Kisela - Class of 2015, St. Francis de Sales Parish and School
• Breanne Johnson - Class of 2015, Holy Family Parish and John
XXIII Catholic School
In addition to earning straight A's all four quarters, the following
students earned A's on ALL exams, semester grades, and final grades!
• Kyle Bush • Hayley Hayek • Tayla Manion • Chloe Kisela
• Meghan Mulligan • Katie Preston.
SP OT LIG HTS - STUDENTS
National Merit Finalists:
Seniors, Breanne Johnson and Paul Gillen are
National Merit Finalists. They are eligible to
receive a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship along
with corporate and university scholarships associated with attaining this level of academic recognition. Breanne plans to study nutrition next year
at either Oregon State University or the University
of Georgia. Paul plans to pursue a degree in computer science at either The Ohio State University
or Georgia Tech University.
A
nthony Munoz Foundation
Award Winner:
Ben Stegbauer, stellar multi-sport athlete, academic,
musician and faithful student leader, was presented the
Anthony Munoz Foundation Lineman of the Year award
at the National Football Foundation of Greater Cincinnati Chapter Annual Banquet. is award is given
Jacob Gaston in Drum Corps International!
Jacob is the first Bishop Fenwick student to earn a place in
the prestigious Drum Corps International (DCI). Drum
Corps International has developed into a powerful, nonprofit, global youth activity with far-reaching artistic, educational and organizational influence. rough the annual DCI
Tour and more than 35 World Championships in 17 North
American cities, Drum Corps International provides entertainment to millions through live performances and nationally-televised events. Drum Corps International is Marching
Music’s Major League™. Aer a rigorous audition process,
Jacob was offered a spot with River City Rhythm, an Open
Class DCI group based in Wisconsin. is achievement is a
positive reflection on the growing talent and sophistication of
Fenwick music programs and efforts of Jason Umberg, Director of Bands.
annually to a few select offensive and defensive linemen
in the Tri-State region. In keeping with the mission of
the Foundation, beyond their athletic achievements,
candidates must demonstrate academic success and
community involvement. Additionally, Ben recently
recorded his 100th wrestling win during the GCL tournament in February and advanced out of Sectionals to
wrestle at the District Meet. Aer graduation Ben will
attend Marion University in Indiana pursuing the seminary.
Freshman swimmer
Lauren Olson takes the
podium in Canton!
Small in stature, but big in speed
and skill, Lauren Olson
placed 3rd in the 100 yard
butterfly and 7th in the
100 yard breaststroke at
the Division II State
Swim meet held in
February. Congratulations to Lauren
and Coach
Galvin!
10
2014 Athletic Hall of Fame
Induction Ceremony
2014 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees (le to right) John Jester, Andrea Crane ‘04, Ellie Stonecash ‘04 and Bill Courtney ‘61
The 20th Athletic Hall of Fame Induction ceremony was held Sunday, December 7, 2014
to honor four new and well deserving nominees. This induction class spans a total of 57
years between graduation years and represents athletes, a coach/administrator and both
genders. Coach John Jester was inducted after a lifetime of service to the community
juxtaposed against Andrea and Ellie’s induction in their first year of eligibility. Regardless, all the 2014 inductee’s talents were recognized for meritorious contributions and
service.
Jon Payne, Athletic Director, welcomed friends, alumni and honorees to the ceremony
and introduced special guest Fr. Robert Monnin, himself a Hall of Athletic Fame Inductee, class of 2001. Fr. Monnin offered prayer and blessing before the meal was served.
Principal Andy Barczak provided opening remarks before Master of Ceremony John
Rossi ‘80 took the podium and began the presentation of each of the inductees. John regaled the audience with a few comical stories of growing up under the wing of “Butch” and
some important lessons he learned along the way.
Hall of Fame inductee John Jester and wife Linda
The collective speeches of the four inductees entertained the audience with whimsical flashbacks, poignant memories and humble gratitude for their
award. Bill Courtney pointed to a few teammates seated in the crowd who were on the field or on the court during his high school days and recalled
some of those lessons, like learning the value of teamwork, and getting the ball to the people who could score and the thrill of beating arch rival
Hamilton Catholic at the buzzer when teammate Rob Beck ‘61 sunk a 30 foot shot to win the game! He learned work ethic from his coaches and
when his football team experienced racism, he learned how a team with integrity stood behind each player regardless of color or insult by others.
Andrea Crane thanked the people she felt were instrumental to her success: coaches, teammates and her family, all who inspired her and supported
her efforts. She was especially thankful to her parents for creating the opportunity for her to think big.
ALU MNI NEWS - 2014 ATH LE TIC H ALL OF FAME INDUCTION
Inductees to the Hall of Fame
John Jester
Coach, Teacher, Athletic Director, Principal
•
•
•
•
Hired by Fr. Krusling in 1965, retired in 2002
Football Coach, 17 years
Initiated and was first coach for Boys Tennis Team
Served several years as the Men's Basketball Coach and Swimming Coach
• Served as Athletic Director and Principal
• Lifetime Falcon Fan spanning fiy (50) years of service supporting
the Fenwick Community.
Robert Crane ‘06, Regina and Rod Crane, Andrea Crane ‘04 and Patrick Crane ‘11
Ellie Stonecash laughingly poked fun at herself as a ball hog given her average shots taken per game. Perhaps it’s no surprise she scored 1,000 points
during her high school career. She acknowledged
the faculty and administration for providing her
the foundation and encouragement for her to
travel throughout the
United States and abroad
to find her calling. She Coach Tony Fink ‘82, Ellie Stonecash ‘04, guest
eventually returned to
and former coach Mary Rossi Joseph ‘87
Ohio and now shares her passion for youth by teaching at-risk students in
Columbus.
John Jester, the last inductee to speak, expressed his sense of belonging
within the Fenwick community of family. He shared an early conversation
he had with Butch Rossi shortly after being hired. John was asking Butch
how do “you guys” do this, or “you guys” do that. Butch eventually stopped
John and said, “John, it’s not you guys, it’s we. You are part of the team.”
John wore many hats while on staff at Fenwick: coach, teacher, Athletic
Director and even Principal for a year. His most loved title was always that
of coach.
Mike Raiff, Development Director, closed the 20th Induction Ceremony
speaking directly to the four inductees, saying, “We are here today to celebrate your great achievements. You may think that your performance as a
Falcon, leading the Falcons, setting the bar of excellence as a Falcon and
allowing us to celebrate and honor these achievements with you closes the
chapter of your accomplishments at Fenwick. Truly, your job is just beginning! Each year we enroll 150 students that enter the doors on State Route
122 as Stallions, Chargers, Falcons, Golden Bears, etc...we have the incredible opportunity to shape these student athletes from 30 zip codes, 35
parishes and 9 counties into the Crimson and Gold Falcons of Fenwick.
For us to be successful, we need you to come back. We need our Falcons of
past glory and achievement to share your experiences with our Falcons of
today! I can guarantee you that the Falcons of today will be honored to
meet you. I guarantee you that you will be honored to meet them too.
God Bless and Go Falcons.”
John passed away on March 12, 2015 just prior to publication
Andrea Crane ‘04
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Four-year soccer letterman
Career record holder for goals scored: 72
Career record holder for goal assists: 52
All Mid-Miami League (MML) 1st Team: 2001, 2002, 2003
MML Player of the Year: 2002, 2003
All City: 1st Team 2002, 2003; 2nd Team 2001
All State 3rd Team: 2002, 2003
National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA)
Scholar All American 2003
• Earned Scholarship to Duke University, Division I, ACC
• Member of Duke Women's Soccer Team 2004, 2005, 2007
Ellie Stonecash ‘04
• Earned eight varsity letters across three sports: soccer, basketball
and soball
• Achieved 1,000 career points in basketball
• All MML Basketball 1st Team: 2003, 2004
• MML Player of the Year: 2003, 2004
• All City 1st Team Basketball: 2003, 2004
• All City Player of the Year: 2003, 2004
• All District 1st Team: 2003, 2004
• All Southwest Region: 1st Team 2004; 3rd Team 2003
• All State: 1st Team 2004; Honorable Mention 2003
• Member of the Wittenberg University Women's Basketball
Team 2004-2007
William Courtney ‘61
• ree sport letterman for football,
basketball and baseball
• Member of the 1961 basketball
regional runner-up team
• Member of the 1961 Southwest
Ohio Conference (SWOC)
baseball championship team
• Member of the 1960 1st Team
All-SWOC Football Team
• Upon graduation established new football records for total yardage,
percentage pass completions, and touchdowns thrown
12
Athletic Hall of Fame
Celebr ates 20 YE A R S !
The Butch Rossi Gymnasium at St. John XXIII Catholic Grade School
(former home of Bishop Fenwick High School) was filled from one
end of the court to the other with smiling Athletic Hall of Famers. On
February 11, 2015, the community recognized decades of athletic history represented by some of our best alumni athletes. Although not
all 96 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees could be present for the celebration, many were represented by other alumni, family, coaches and a
resonating Falcon spirit. Bill Courtney ‘61, a 2014 Inductee and Mike
Herr ‘61 concurred about the night, “It was a great night for reminiscing with teammates about games and plays and special moments.
Butch would have loved to have seen the turnout of former athletes
and coaches spread across the gym!”
During the half-time celebration, Principal Andy Barczak, Athletic
Director Jon Payne and Athletic Association President Dave Krebs
presented each AHF member with a special pin commemorating both
the twentieth induction class and providing each inductee with a lifetime admissions pass to attend any regular season home venue athletic
event.
AL U MNI NEWS - ATHLETI C H ALL OF FAME CELEBRATION
Bill Courtney ‘61 and Mike Herr ‘61
Principal Andy Barczak, Athletic Director Jon Payne and Athletic
Association President Dave Krebs presenting AHF members with commemorative pins
The first induction class of the Athletic Hall of Fame was installed on
October 22, 1995 with twelve members being honored out of thirty-two
eligible graduating classes. Four members of the inaugural class, Tom
Augspurger ‘53, Butch Rossi ‘53, Bob Schwab ‘61 and Coach Jerry
Harkrader, have passed away, but their personal, athletic and professional
contributions are still celebrated within the
community. Rounding out the other nine inaugural inductees are Jay Byrne ‘82, Matt
Clemens ‘75, Chris Fening ‘70, Mike
Harkrader ‘76, Greg Klapheke ‘74, Mary
McConnell ‘75, Tom Meehan ‘59, and Fred
Nori ‘61. Of these twelve, four were recognized for their high school athletic achievements and additionally as successful Fenwick
coaches: Butch, Bob, Mary and Fred. Many
of the inaugural class participated on one or
Dick Martin ‘73 and niece
more state championship teams.
Kathryn Brooks ‘17
Player and Coach Fred Nori ‘61 said of his induction, “Being selected by
the committee to be a member of the first AHF Class was a great honor. It
was also very humbling to be chosen along with so many other outstanding
individuals. I have been able to attend many AHF induction ceremonies
and it is always great to see so many deserving athletes recognized.” Tom
Meehan ‘59, shared, “I cannot express in words how deeply honored I was
to be in the inaugural class with those other nine super athletes. It was truly
one of the greatest honors that the school I love so much would honor me
as a Hall of Fame member. God Bless all the Athletic Hall of Fame members and everyone at Fenwick.”
Peter Sherman ‘81, Barb Robertson ‘81, Bob Jorden, and Fred
Dakin ‘57 before the half-time festivities
Over the course of twenty years, many great alumni would be recognized for
their athletic contributions while representing the Crimson and Gold.
Some athletes like recent inductees Andrea Crane ‘04 and Ellie Stonecash
‘04 were inducted in the first year they became eligible (ten years post graduation), while others were inducted many years after initial eligibility. Regardless, it is not just the pure athletic skills demonstrated in competition,
but a player’s character and integrity which determine greatness and leadership as an athlete. Ellie remarked in her induction speech, “Other people
believed in me… so I believed in me! I got to play a sport I loved, with
coaches and people I loved at a place I loved!” Her humble spirit was evident while in high school and still is today.
The Development Department, AHF Committee and Athletic Director,
work diligently to help identify potential nominees and ensure criteria are
followed throughout an alumni’s nomination and selection process. In addition to supporting the Athletic Hall of Fame, the Development Team also
facilitates the Hall of Achievement Committee, which recognizes alumni
who have demonstrated significant and positive impact on the betterment
of their community.
Mary Ann Swartz Rossi ‘53 and daughter Elizabeth Rossi ‘85
The late Tom Bruggeman ‘75, the first Athletic Hall of Fame Committee
Chairman, presided over the inaugural induction ceremony. The Athletic
Hall of Fame Committee created by-laws to define nomination
eligibility, standards, and the process to evaluate and select nominees
for induction.
Classmates and teammates Jeff Hamilton ‘75 and Martin Bidwell ‘75
(pictured right)
14
Class
Notes
Theresa Mulligan Wagner ‘53 has published a
children’s book, The Lady in the Rainbow Hat.
Theresa was inspired to write a book after a recent
visit with her four grandsons who remarked about
her rainbow colored hat. The book is about God’s
constant love for us and although written for children five and under, the message is ageless. For information to purchase a copy contact Theresa
directly at theresawagner@hotmail.com.
Class of ‘62 70th birthday party. See a list of attendees below.
Rose Slezak Huber ‘65 along with her husband,
Walt, (photo below) have written and launched a
new book, How Did God Do It. How did God perform the many miracles and supernatural events
described in the Holy Bible without violating the
laws of physics and chemistry that He Himself put
into place? This book proposes a theory that marries faith and rationality in a symphony of science
and scripture. Available as an e-book, paperback,
and hardcover all available through various commerce’s including Amazon, Google, eBooks,
iTunes or online at www.friesen.com
Class of ‘62 Celebrates 70th Birthday! This class
knows how to have fun! They had such a great
time celebrating their 50th class reunion that they
decided to throw themselves a 70th birthday party.
Class members gathered for a great meal September 6, 2014 at Tom and Cher Uhl’s farn, William’s
Trace, in Oxford, Ohio. In attendance were the
following: (Front row) Tom Uhl, Jack Parrella,
Barb Werner Calabrese, Carolyn Van Horn Parrella, Barb Heggi Eutsler, Sandi Ritter, Mary Lisy
Meyers, Paul Enright, Barb Angel Vonderhaar,
Carol Helps Kampff (Back row) Tim Cole, Tom
Whiteman, Marcia Williams Jones, James Werner,
William Kiesewetter Jr., Fred Bishop, Mike Fulmer.
ALU MNI NEWS - CLASS N OTE S
Peggy Trimble ‘64 on display again! The Fifth
Street Gallery inside the Netherland Plaza Hotel
in downtown Cincinnati is exhibiting her watercolor paintings, together with the Pendleton Art
Center studio partner. An opening reception is
scheduled for April 10 and the exhibit will be open
through May 2.
Ginger Lolli Bruggeman ‘67 retired in December
2014 from a 23
year career with
the Middletown
Area
United
Way of Greater
Cincinnati,
most recently as
senior resource
development associate. After a
very long career
serving the United Way and volunteering for many
different organizations Ginger is now singularly
focused on her family. She has been highly recognized for her dedication to many different organizations and charities in the area. She was
inducted into the Bishop Fenwick Hall of
Achievement in 2014. She and husband Dave ‘66,
and sons Jim ‘86 and Scott ‘88 live locally.
Dan Lueking
‘99 was
an-
nouncedin February as the new
Bishop Fenwick
Men’s
Soccer
Coach! Coach
Lueking introduced himself
to the players
and laid out his
coaching philosophy, values and expectations for
the 2015 season. Upon graduating from Fenwick
he played at Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
Dan has 10 years of coaching experience, most
recently as Assistant Varsity Coach for Lakota
James with his siblings, ( from L to R) Greg Long ‘78, Annemarie Long McCarthy ‘81, Angie Long
Valenti ‘88, Carolyn Long Lenz ‘93, Jim Long ‘77, Kathy Long Maritato ‘90, Maureen Long Gaston
‘83, and Joe Long ’80
East. Over his coaching career he participated in
7 district titles, 6 regional finals and the recent
state semi-final in fall 2014 with the Thunderbirds. John teaches 7th grade math at Norwood
Middle school in Cincinnati. Wel-
James F. Long ‘77 was sworn in on February 24,
Caroline Dineen Bier ‘91
2015 as a Kettering Municipal Court Judge. Jim’s
recently returned to Middle-
wife, Suzette Myton Long held the Bible and at-
town and is serving as the
torney Jamar T. King, a youth player that Jim
Executive Director, Butler
coached years ago, administered the oath of office.
County Veterans Service
A very large ‘Long Family Fan Club’ came to wit-
Commission. Caroline
ness the event including, his parents Frank and
and her husband, Jesse
Jeanne Long, siblings, and MANY of Jim’s nieces
are both retired
and nephews! Jim received a Bachelor of Arts de-
Marines and volun-
gree from Ohio Northern University and earned
teer much of their
his Juris Doctorate from The Ohio State Univer-
time to advocating
sity Moritz College of Law. In 1984, Long began
for veterans who
a private law practice, serving the Cincinnati/Day-
suffer from post
ton area. In 1995, he joined the Montgomery
traumatic
stress
County Public Defender’s Office as an Assistant
disorder. She is
Public Defender. In 2000, Long was named Ket-
very excited to be
tering Municipal Court Prosecutor, prosecuting
back home and
cases for the City of Kettering, the City of Cen-
serving the veter-
terville and for Washington Township. He has
ans
been a full-time prosecutor at the Kettering Mu-
County.
of
come back to Fenwick, Coach!
Butler
nicipal Court for 15 years.
Pictured right: James F. Long getting sworn into office with his wife
Suzette Myton Long and attorney Jamar T. King
16
Engagements
& Weddings
Georgia Ross Cranford
with older sister , Julia,
and brother, Conrad
The Falcon Nest
Erin Mott ‘09 and Greg Johnson ‘08 were
married October 4, 2014. ey were friends
while students at Fenwick and began dating
during college. Greg is an engineer, Erin is a
social worker for the Epilepsy Foundation and
they are homeowners in Goshen, Ohio. Erin
sent this message with their beautiful wedding
photo: “We had an occasion recently to return
to Fenwick for a special experience in the place
we met and both have such fond memories.
We are proud to be Falcons!”
Charlotte Williams ‘10 and Beau Fedders
‘10 are engaged to be married. ey are planning a wedding in 2016.
Don Horn
with grandson
Finn omas
Fred ‘92 and Betsy Robertson Cranford ‘97 welcomed
the birth of their third child, Georgia Ross, on February
2, 2015. e addition of Georgia makes three including
older sister, Julia, and brother, Conrad.
Chris Barger ‘93 and wife Tricia welcomed daughter
Lila to their family on July 9, 2014.
James Francis Akers II was born January 15, 2015 to
Chris Akers ‘94 and his wife Kara of Denver, Colorado.
Andy and Amy Courtney Hawkins ‘96 gave birth to
twins on February 15, 2015. Cooper Andrew and
Courtney Grace Hawkins are, as their grandfather Bill
Courtney ‘61 says, “cute as can be, if I don't say so myself !”
James Francis Akers II
Joe Barger ‘98 and wife Elizabeth added a new face to
their family, Remy Barger on November 13, 2014.
Ben ‘02 and Mallory Hurr Williams ‘02 expanded
their family with the birth of Oliver Felix on November
10, 2014. Oliver was greeted by his older sister Cecilia
when he arrived home. Oliver’s birth also delighted his
grandmother, faculty member Celena Williams.
Oliver Felix Williams and sister Cecilia
Mike ‘03 and Abigail Horn Bambrick ‘03 are proud
parents of their first child, Finn omas born January
24, 2015. His even prouder grandparents are Facility
Manager, Don Horn and Ann Coyle Horn ‘77.
Julie Miller Kirnec ‘10 and husband Mike are proud
parents of their first child, Reid Michael born February
12, 2015.
Reid Michael Kirnec (photo right)
ALU MNI NEWS - CLASS N OTE S
In Memoriam
Christine Andres Engler ‘53 passed
away January 6, 2015. She attended Mt.
Saint Joseph College aer graduating
from Fenwick. She was employed as a
bookkeeper for Universal Homebuilders and J-II Homes for 25 years
and was a member of Sacred Heart
Parish in Fairfield, Ohio.
Doug Angel ‘56 passed away on December 31, 2014. Doug and his family
settled in New Jersey where he opened a
skydiving business. Aer retirement, he
continued to do parachute jumps for
special events and holidays. Doug is survived by siblings, Martha Angel Vance
‘58, the late Kenneth Angel ‘61 and Barb Angel VonderHaar ‘62. Doug’s classmates celebrated his life with a Mass at Bishop Fenwick and also at Holy Trinity
Catholic Church.
Joseph Hornback ‘61 a retired research chemist and professor, passed away November 10, 2014. Before beginning his passionate academic career, he received his
BS in Chemistry from Notre Dame University and his PhD from e Ohio State
University and fellowship at University of Wisconsin. He secured a position at
the University of Denver, Department of Chemistry. He served in a number of
administrative positions including Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies;
Associate Dean for Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Engineering; and Director of the Honors Program. His first love was always teaching and he was a passionate organic chemistry professor to many hundreds of undergraduates
throughout his tenure. He received the University of Denver Distinguished
Award, the Natural Sciences Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the Outstanding Academic Advisor Award. He authored a well-received textbook, Organic Chemistry. He retired from the University of Denver as Professor Emeritus
in 2012. Joe is survived by his wife Melanie, three children and four grandchildren.
Mary K. Kiesewetter Sannes ‘67 passed away August 19, 2014. She worked 22
years for the United States Postal Service and was a parish member of Holy Family Catholic Church. Mrs. Sannes is survived by her husband, William E. Sannes
Sr., four children, three siblings; William ‘62, Kenneth ‘65, Rita Kiesewetter
Sabo ‘69 and her mother, Dorothy.
Amy Elizabeth Rock ‘80 passed away February 4, 2015. Amy formerly owned
and operated Rock’s Custom Car Cleanup. Amy was the daughter of Donna
Buehl Rock ‘56, and sister to Robert Rock ‘78.
Former Faculty:
Sr. Ann Dorenbusch S.C. passed away August 11, 2014. She was on staff from
1969-1971. Sr. Ann Dorenbusch, S.C. passed away among her sisters at the
Motherhouse at Mt. St. Joseph's.
Sara Lawler Galeese passed away at age 96 on January 21, 2015. She was a
teacher and Vice Principal St. Mary's School, as well as Fenwick High School.
John Jester passed away March 12, 2015. John spent 50 years serving the Bishop
Fenwick community as teacher, coach, administrator, parent, grandparent and
volunteer. He was on staff for 37 years. John was inducted into the Athletic Hall
of Fame in December 2014. He was a parish member at Holy Family Church and
active with the Sons of Italy, Knights of Columbus and served as a Board of
Director for MASCU. He cherished his family and leaves behind wife Linda,
children Earl ‘82, Tom ‘82, Amanda ‘91 and granddaughter April Jester ‘14.
We maintain a Book of Remembrance of deceased Fenwick alumni. Please
notify Betty Stueve in the Development Office of an alumnus who has passed
away; bstueve@fenwickfalcons.org or 513-727-1500.
Additional Information Regarding Bishop Fenwick Eagle Scouts:
Included in the last issue of the Falcon Network was a list of Bishop Fenwick Eagle Scouts. Many alumni responded to
this article to identify that they too achieved the honor of Eagle Scout while attending Bishop Fenwick. Following is a list
of all known Bishop Fenwick Eagle Scouts however; this list may not be complete. If you are a Fenwick graduate who earned
an Eagle Scout badge and not listed below, please contact the school so that we can update your information. Contact
rblank@fenwickfalcons.org with name, scout troop, year achieved Eagle Scout and if your service project directly benefitted Bishop Fenwick. Thank you for helping us update our records!
Andy Barger ‘90
Chris Barger ‘93
Joe Barger ‘98
Paul Beier ‘64
Zeb Bell ‘11
Arlie Bell ‘13
Jacob Bignell
Bret Bohannon ‘01
Kyle Bohannon ‘06
Alex Brackett ‘83
Jason Bunn ‘09
H.T. Derivan ‘58
Michael Earach ‘70
Mark Fahey ‘05
Paul Fahey ‘08
Tim Fahey ‘05
William Fahey ‘10
Ray Fay ‘65
Beau Fedders ‘10
Chris Fishbaugh ‘04
Adam Griffith ‘10
Adam Hackett ‘01
Dan Hackett ‘04
Nick Hackett ‘01
David Harrison ‘01
Brandon Head ‘14
Curtis Joseph ‘13
Michael Kleingers ‘03
Keith Lawson ‘67
Kevin Leesman ‘08
Dan Lolli ‘05
Ted McCloe ‘05
Joseph Payne ‘82
Ricky Pearce ‘11
DJ Picard ‘05
Lance Roman ’14
Scott Roman ‘10
Mason Round ‘13
Michael Sievers ‘06
Stephen Snarski ‘11
Michael Sorrell ‘99
Jude Strafford D.O. ‘85
Joseph Walburg ‘70
Michael Weaver ‘94
Scott Weaver ‘90
Jeff Witte ‘90
18
Falcon Day
Last September the entire
school; students, faculty and
staff, along with a well-orchestrated army of parent
volunteers put on the first
ever Falcon Day. The inspiration of Falcon Day came
from students voicing their
ideas to help create a better
sense of family at Fenwick.
Religion teacher Rachael
Zilli took those comments to
school administration and
Director of Campus Ministry
Meg Eckart to discuss a
Students working on a competitive task
means to respond to the students concerns. English Department Chair, Bridget Pierson offered to
help and together these three women put together an amazing halfday of community building activities. They recruited the Parents Club
to provide organization and execution of the day’s events and assigned
each faculty/staff member to a student led team comprised of seniors/sophomores and juniors/freshmen. In total there were 50 teams
created for friendly competition.
The agenda for the day included a picnic lunch, prayer service, talent
show and competitive team building activities. Students, reluctant at
first to let their guard down and have fun, eventually began to understand first-hand what the day’s purpose was. During the prayer service, Meg Eckart spoke to everyone and stated, “We are here today to
remind us that God is not just on the altar but in our community
among us. Today reminds us that our community is centered in Christ.”
NEW T R AD ITIONS - FALCON DAY
The student body was split in half, alternating either participation in
the competitive exercises or talent show. Both students and adults
wowed the audience with vocals, comedy, and instrumentals. Each
team “competed” among other teams and points were given based on
each team’s ability to demonstrate team work, leadership, positive participation and respect to team members.
Mrs. Zilli reflected on the success of Falcon Day: “It was such a joy to
see the students getting to know one another in new ways and get
excited to work towards a goal with people outside of their immediate friend groups. It was great seeing the faculty and staff have fun and
compete with the students too.” By the end of the afternoon, it was
very evident from smiling faces that Bishop Fenwick had grown as a
community and all involved were proud to be Fenwick!
Special thanks to Jon and Dr. Tricia Croake-Uleman and Southwest
Pain Management for their generous financial support of this event.
Mariam Gabadadze ‘16 and Breleigh Berry ‘18 were two of
the talent show winners!
Faces of Philanthropy
named and receive $500 in tuition assistance. e
goal is to grow the scholarship to benefit more
recipients and to expand the scholarship amount.
Scholarship recipients must emulate the qualities
of Tom and Dave:
Tom and Dave were great classmates and even
greater men who inspired us by their leadership,
courage and humor. is scholarship will be given
to a student who exhibits extraordinary courage,
grace and humor in the face of adversity, or who
demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities
through service to others and loyalty to family,
community and Bishop Fenwick High School.
ese are only a few characteristics evident during
their lifetimes. Tom Bruggeman ’74 and David
South ’75 lost their lives to cancer but they le behind a legacy of greatness. Classmates, teammates,
family and colleagues would all agree that Tom
and Dave represented the best of Fenwick.
Tom passed away in February 2014 and many
from his graduating class of 1974 who attended his
funeral were drawn to one another for comfort.
e evening ended with a large group at a local
restaurant sharing stories of the glory days and discussion about their upcoming 40th class reunion.
Tom’s passing created a stir; the recognition of
mortality and importance of cherishing memories
and people associated with those experiences.
remarked to a group of classmates how very sad to
be celebrating the reunion and championships
without Tom and Dave, and was it possible to
create something to memorialize them. e
wheels began moving among a core group of
organizers and soon the classes of 1973-1976 were
involved in creating the Fenwick Falcons State
Champion Football and Baseball Teams Memorial Scholarship. Jim Kleingers, a key reunion and
scholarship organizer, was not surprised at the
quick response of his classmates to fund this
effort. e scholarship is already an endowed
scholarship and has exceeded gis and
pledges of $16,000. is spring the first
recipient of this scholarship will be
For more information or to donate to the Fenwick
Falcons State Champion Football and Baseball
Teams Memorial Scholarship contact Mike Raiff,
Director of Development at 513-727-1500 or
mraiff@fenwickfalcons.org.
Top Photo: Quarterback Tom Bruggeman ‘74
handing off the ball in the state title game
Bottom Photo: David South ‘75, #20, celebrating
the 1974 Baseball State Championship
e summer proceeded and reunion plans continued to fall into place inspired by the celebration of
the 40th anniversary of the three state championship teams scheduled for Homecoming weekend. In July, David South passed away and another
funeral was attended by many of the same classmates and teammates who had attended Tom’s
funeral.
e reunion committee had chosen to piggy back
their 40th reunion on Homecoming weekend
since many would plan to join in the state championship celebration. Two weeks prior to the
reunion, Janet and Don Murphy (aka “Bootie”)
20
V i s i t B i s h o p Fe nw i c k a t w w w. f e nw i c k f a l c o n s . o r g
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Middletown,Ohio
Permit No. 20
4855 State Route 122
Fr a n k l i n , O h i o 4 5 0 0 5
. . . Fo r O u r Fu t u r e
Gathered student leaders showing their team flags at the conclusion of the first ever Falcon Day!