St. John the BaptiSt DioceSan high School

amily NewsF Spring 2015Coming Events

Celebrate our 2015 Men of Vision Honorees

Tuesday June 16, 2015 - 6:00 pm - View Restaurant - $180.00 per personFor fast, safe and secure credit card payments go to

www.stjohnthebaptistdhs.net or www.sjbalumni.org and click on the Gentlemen’s Dinner icon. Order by May 15 to receive 10% off individual ticket price!

Please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at (631)587-8000 x177, ask for Mrs. Jackie Pamlanye in the Development Office.

All proceeds from this event will benefit The Visionary Fund.

Jack Lessing Meritorious Service Award Recipient

&

SJB liBrary renovation proJect half Way there

We are very pleased to announce that we have recently passed the half-way point of our fundraising goal and we invite you to learn more about this project and to be part of it. Our Library Project demonstrates the continuing

efforts of SJB to provide our students and faculty with a state-of-the-art learning and research center, including:

• A MAc LAb for Art And video production • Genesis center for student reseArch projects

• A coMpLeteLy wireLess environMent throuGhout the schooL • AdvAnced 3-d diGitAL ArchivinG cApAbiLities

• fLexibLe LeArninG spAces thAt provide individuAL reseArch And Group coLLAborAtion AreAs

• conference rooMs And AreAs for cLubs & tutorinG

Please visit our School Website www.stjohnthebaptistdhs.net or www.sjbalumni.org and click on the Library Banner scrolling at the top of the

home page. You can track our progress, view artist renderings and floor plans, or make a donation.

Men of vision GentLeMen’s dinner tueSDay, June 16, 2015

ALuMni reunion & hoMecoMinG weekendSaturDay, octoBer 3 &

SunDay, octoBer 4, 2015

tAste for educAtiontueSDay, octoBer 20, 2015

ALuMni MeMoriAL MAssSaturDay novemBer 7, 2015

fAMiLy christMAs festivAL & crAft fAir

SunDay, DecemBer 6, 2015

woMen of hope chAMpAGne Luncheon

feBruary 2016

AnnuAL GoLf outinGfriDay, may 6, 2016

Artist’s rendering of the New Library

Auxilliary Bishop Robert J. Brennan ‘80Diocese of Rockville Centre

Men of Vision Award Recipients

Artie DromerhauserDirector of St. Catherine of Siena

Medical CenterFoundation

Robert R. Spina Jr. ‘81 Attorney

Private Practice

For more information or to register:

Call

631-587-8000 x 125Click

www.sjbalumni.orgEmail

alumni@sjbdhs.org

CALLING ALL COUGARSSAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 3rd & 4th

20152015

CALLING ALL COUGARSSAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 3rd & 4th

ALUMNI FOREVER A Note from Alumni Relations:

ALL ARE WELCOME TO GET INVOLVED & VOLUNTEER!The Alumni Reunion & Homecoming Weekend is a great way to reconnect with old friends. We encourage the

Milestone Classes of 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2005 and 2010 to join the Reunion Committee to make your reunion a success! A great reunion needs a great committee! Join us today! Email us at alumni@sjbdhs.org or sign up online at www.sjbalumni.org, just click on the Alumni tab and then click on the Get Involved – Volunteer tab.

SJB CONNECT

The Office of Alumni Relations uses social media to engage alumni and friends. The following online communities are available for classmates to connect, find and share news. So join today!

COUGAR CORNER: Alumni website at www.sjbalumni.org TWITTER: SJB Alumni Relations@ CougarsSjb at https://twitter.com/CougarsSjb FACEBOOK PAGE: St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School Office of Alumni Relations. LinkedIn: Office of Alumni Relations St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School

Faces may change and campus may look a little different, but the Cougar Spirit remains the same! Gather your friends, family and classmates

to join us as we celebrate you during Alumni Reunion & Homecoming Weekend.This two day celebration will feature social, athletic, and family friendly

activities for all alumni, with a special invitation to the Milestone Classes of 1970 through 2010

SJB Family NewsPublisher....................Nan DohertyCopy Editor................Rob CrossanAssistant Editor....Trish O’DonnellLayout Editor.........Leone Mathon

Saturday, OctOber 3rdMilestone Reunion Reception

Cougar Cafe at SJB7:00-11:00 pm

Sunday, OctOber 4thHomecoming: Mass, Pancake Breakfast,

Pre-game Festivities, Alumni Half-time Procession10:00 am - 3:00 pm

ALL ALUMNI INVITEDJoin the Alumni website at www.sjbalumni.org today!

We’re looking forward to welcoming you back to campus this fall!

ATTENTION ALL SJB ARTISTS!!!! We are planning an ALUMNI ART EXHIBIT

to be held on Homecoming weekend, October 3rd and 4th.

For more information contact Mrs. Abbondola at

Abbondolab@sjbdhs.org or call 631-587-8000 ex. 202.

Details will be posted on the alumni web page also. Let ART be part of the Homecoming / reunion

celebrations!!

cLAss of 2015

pizzA pArty

sjb weLcoMes bAck our newest ALuMni!

On Friday, January 9th, the annual “Welcome Back” pizza party was held in the Cougar Café for our 2014 grads who were home on their winter breaks. Over 220 alumni returned to see their former teachers and mingle among their classmates. An alumni panel was held that morning in the auditorium consisting of eleven 2014 grads who spoke to our Juniors and Seniors about their first semester college experiences.

Special thanks to our Alumni Panelists Robert Abbazio, Christian Brown, Austin Drexel, Jasmin Ervin, Tim Haggerty, Shaina Jaeger, Alex Plumacher, Greg Smith, Lauren Stillwell, Brian Wagner, and Dorothy Wilkinson for coming back and sharing their college experiences and offering some sound advice.

Our community came together that day to help welcome our grads back: Alumni committee members Joe Hickey ’75, Mickey Quinn ’75, and Ryan Hickey ’12, ran the registration table, while F.U.N. parents helped dish out pizza and snacks to our recent grads.

cAthoLic chArities tALent show

The sixth annual Catholic Charities Variety Show was held on Sunday, January 25th. Over 80 SJB students worked with residents of Group Homes to prepare for this fun-filled and inspiring show. This year’s them was “Friends”. Mrs. Trish Callahan, who is the coordinator of this fantastic event, stated, “This show never disappoints. The students and residents work together to make the most uplifting and delightful show. Everyone comes to share the joy.” If you would like to read more about this great event please visit for more information. http://licatholic.org/sjb-students-and-group-home-residents-team-up-for-friends-variety-show

On February 16, 2015 at Lincoln Center’s Avery Fischer Hall, twelve seniors participated in a one-night production of Jason Robert Brown’s PARADE conducted by the composer. This concert performance of PARADE featured a chorus of over 200 singers from the across the United States. It also combined the forces of the New York City Chamber Orchestra as well as a full professional Broadway cast which included Jeremy Jordan as Leo Frank, Laura Benanti as Lucille Frank, Katie Rose Clark as Mrs. Phagan and many more. Prior to Monday evening’s performance, students attended three fast-paced rehearsals to prepare for the show. Mr. Jared Berry, SJB’s Vocal Director, stated, “As the students said, this was a life-changing musical experience. They had the opportunity to be in the chorus of a concertized Broadway show in a prominent venue with a star-studded cast. Musically it was unforgettable, students had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with the cast and production team to learn more about their path to a successful career. They also attended a cast party, where they were able to discuss the show, take pictures and get autographs.”

student vocALists perforM in stAr-studded concert of pArAde At LincoLn center

Over the weekend of March 6th to 8th we presented the musical Footloose. It was the first production directed by Mr. Ed Brennan. More than 80 students participated including the performers and stage crew. Everyone embraced the challenge that old man winter posed with snow days and school delays thrown into rehearsals. The students sang and danced with passion and heart. The stage & lighting crews did a fantastic job setting the stage for the production. Each performances’ dancing, singing and laughs entertained audiences. The very talented cast was led by principal cast members: Ryan Koerber ’15 (Ren McCormack),

2015 Spring Musical

Luke McCoy ’15 (Reverend Moore), Emily Lane ’15 (Ariel), Allison Lane ‘15 (Vi), and Marissa Cunha ’15 (Ethel). Also notable were the supportive comedic characters played by R.J. Rezza ’15 (Willard Hewitt), Bella Ferraro’15 (Rusty), Elizabeth Venezia ‘15 (Urleene), Jillian Sharpe’15 (Wendy Jo), and Christopher Cantanno ’15 (Principal Clark), who provided many laughs. We were honored to have the students from the Nora Cronin Presentation Academy as our guests along with their SJB student mentors. The student performers bid farewell to the seniors and are looking forward to next year’s musical.

AnnuAL ALuMni cAreer dAy

On Friday, March 13th, forty alumni spanning the classes of 1970 to 2011 were welcomed back to SJB. Our alumni represented a wide range of professions and spent the day speaking to our Junior and Senior students regarding their careers and their paths to success. The response from both our students and faculty who participated was extremely positive. A great day was had by all involved! Special thanks to our alumni who participated. If you are interested in becoming involved in next year’s Career Day, please email the Alumni Relations Office at alumni@sjbdhs.org.

School News - School News - School News - School News - School News NATIONAL MERIT AND ACHIEVEMENT

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS

Seniors Mary Ferguson, Allison Lane, Abigail McCabe and Cecilia McCormick have been awarded the designation of Commended Students by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. They each have earned PSAT scores that placed them in the top five percent of all test takers.

Also, four seniors were named Outstanding Participants in the 2015 National Achievement Scholarship Program. All four are now being considered for either a single-payment National Achievement $2,500 Scholarship or a corporate-sponsored Achievement Scholarship award. The four Outstanding Participants are: Michelle Blum, Christopher Dubois, Tatiana Ferraro and Rose Ole-Kuyan.

From left to right: Assistant Principal Darius Penikas, Allison Lane, Mary Ferguson, Abigail McCabe, Cecilia McCormick and Principal Nan Doherty.

As Principal Doherty said,” It gives me great joy to congratulate these wonderful students for being honored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, this distinction is a testament to all their hard work and dedication. We are very proud of the accomplishments of these students and we are so happy that their talent and hard work has earned them this distinction”

From left to right: Assistant Principal Darius Penikas, Christopher Dubois,Tatiana Ferraro, RoseOle-Kuyan, Michelle Blum and Principal Nan Doherty.

BIG BUCK WINNERS

Congrats to our other lucky winners:2nd Prize $ 5,000 Hayhow Family3rd Prize $ 5,000 John Klag 4th Prize $ 5,000 John Maddock 5th Prize $ 2,500 John Bourke6th Prize $ 2,500 Ira & Pamela Schneider

Principal Nan Doherty and Mrs. Nancy Bachety and Mr. Frank Bachety, parents of Kyra ’16,

accepting the $25,000 grand prize.

Thank you for your support and participation in this very important fundraising event!

schooL wins $25,000ceLebrAte My drive GrAnt

for teen driver sAfety efforts St. John’s was among one of the 100 winning high schools in the U.S., earning a $25,000 Celebrate My Drive Grant powered by State Farm®. A total of 3,283 registered high schools participated in this year’s program. Students, parents, alumni, faculty and staff rallied in support of teen drivers, making online safe driving commitments, helping them reach their goal. Crashes are the leading cause of death for teens, and the first year behind the wheel is the most dangerous. Celebrate My Drive is an opportunity to celebrate new drivers, focusing on the freedom, but also the responsibility that comes with earning a driver’s license. It’s a chance for teens and their high schools to amplify conversations about this important topic and help be part of the solution. Celebrate My Drive asks all drivers to think 2n2®: 2 eyes on the road and 2 hands on the wheel. Safe driving starts with this simple message and with each driver and passenger. Special thanks to all who participated to help us win! All winnings will be used towards the SAAD Club initiatives and the Library project.

LonG isLAnders vote : MS. REGINA HALL,

Chair of the English Department, nAMed 2015 best teAcher

on LonG isLAnd! Who is the best teacher on Long Island? Just ask the students lucky enough to have occupied desks inside Ms. Regina Hall’s English class and they’ll tell you. She is known for her knowledge of all things literary, her command of grammar, and best of all, her sense of humor and warmth! Ms. Hall was nominated by voters who took part in the Best of L.I. contest.

conGrAtuLAtions to our 1st prize winners

frAnk And nAncy bAchety, who won $25,000!

Pictured left to right: Nan Doherty, Principal, Darius Penikus, Assistant Principal, SJB S.A.D.D. Club student members, and Mark Redmond of the State Farm Agency in West Islip.

On March 19, 20, 21, 2015 ninety-six Juniors traveled on two busses to our nation’s Capital, Washington, DC. The groups visited: Union Station, Arlington National Cemetery, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, FDR, MLK, Vietnam, and Korea. That was the first day! Juniors also visited the Newseum, the Supreme Court, Library of Congress, The Capitol, and the White House. The highlight of the trip is time spent at the Smithsonian where students were able to pick and choose the museums of their choice. The DC trip has become an annual event which became so popular this year, it doubled in size. Chaperones this year included: Mr. Krebs, Mr. Grasso, Mrs. Joyner, Mrs. Langone, Ms. DeLapi, and Sr. Beth. Students also enjoyed an evening in Georgetown, where they were able to shop, walk, sightsee, and enjoy an ice cream while people watching on M Street. Although this trip only provides a taste of Washington, DC, it is an opportunity for Juniors to discover if they have an interest in Government, or perhaps wish to attend an area college.

students visit our nAtion’s cApitAL sjb dAnce coMpAny perforMs At

LincoLn centerOn Saturday, March 21,2015 our Dance Company performed at the 9th Annual Performing Arts Educator Invitational at Lincoln Center. The Dance Company presented two student choreographed works, a contemporary piece choreographed by seniors Maria Citarella and Nicole Skoglund and a Jazz piece choreographed by senior, Emily Fitzgibbon, and junior, Jordan Bryant. SJB was the only school from Long Island that performed in the Invitational. Mrs. Sussman, the company’s director is extremely proud of the hard work, talent and dedication of our students.

jAzz LeGend coMes to visit - Jazz Band Jams with Popular Trumpeter!

On January 14th the Jazz Ensemble had the great opportunity of playing with Jazz Musician Glenn Drewes, who taught a master class to the students. His diverse career has spanned the likes of jazz greats Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, Dizzy Gillespie and Mel Lewis and includes successful pop artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Harry Connick Jr., David Sanborn and P.

Diddy. In addition to being heard on hundreds of jingles, feature films, network award shows, and sports themes, perhaps Mr. Drewes is best known for his work on Broadway and for playing on the children’s educational show, Sesame Street, for 20 years. Mr. Chris Donohue, Performing Arts Department Chair, commented that “the students had an amazing time; they played great, and got to listen to some incredible stories. That’s what playing jazz is all about anyway, the history of jazz is almost as important as the music. Most of these stories only continue to circulate because people like Glenn pass them on. What is funny about that is that’s exactly how the music of jazz grew, by word of mouth. For me, meeting and hearing people like Glenn, as a young musician, inspired me to continue to work to keep America’s true art form of jazz alive and well. I am so happy and thankful that our students have been afforded the same opportunity as I was, and I can already see and hear results.”

School News - School News - School News - School News - School News

Campus Ministry News - Campus Ministry News - Campus Ministry News

2015 MARCH

FOR LIFEOn January 22nd, SJB participated in

The March for Life in Washington DC.

This winter, Campus Ministry began a brand new mentoring program titled “Nora’s Friends”. Junior and Senior girls from St. Johns mentor 7th and 8th grade girls from the Nora Cronin Presentation Academy in Newburgh, New York. Newburgh is the poorest city in New York State and the Nora’s Friends program was developed for two purposes. First, it seeks to help the girls from the Academy expand their horizons and have an older girl with them as they move through adolescence. Just as important though, is for the young ladies of SJB to learn about perseverance and fortitude through the lives of the girls they are mentoring. On February 13, students traveled to the Academy to meet the girls for the first time. Each SJB student was assigned a NCPA student. Upon arrival, quiet nervousness was almost immediately replaced by laughing, talking and a lot of eating. Then, on March 7, students from NCPA came to visit SJB. After some activities and lunch in the Cougar Café, the NCPA students ‘shadowed’ for the last two periods to see what high school classes are like. After classes ended, Fr. Rob said Mass for the entire group, followed by a trip to the ocean, a site many of the younger girls had never seen. After a pizza dinner, the

mentors and mentees stayed for the opening performance of Footloose. After the show, all the girls went to the homes of their mentors to spend the night. The next morning the girls said goodbye to each other for now, but not forever. Nora’s Friends will continue into next year so the relationships that were started can continue to grow. As is usually the case, we found ourselves more graced and blessed than we ever could have imagined and cannot wait to begin anew next year. To view our student’s visit to the academy, please visit: http://petersboat.net/2015/03/05/the-nora-cronin-academy.

students froM the norA cronin presentAtion AcAdeMy visit their sjb Mentors

The SJB National Honor Society Chapter held its annual Spring Blood Drive on Wednesday March 11, 2015 in the SJB gym. A total of 77 people entered the gym to donate blood which rendered 144 pints of blood. This year, NHS was helped with a heartfelt video featuring the Erlanger family (Dave and Anne 2002 grads), along with their twin sons Aaron and Ryan. They explained their urgent need for blood after the birth of Ryan. Their efforts helped bring out more donors (please check out the video featured on the SJB web-site). The Blood Drive is held twice each year. NHS students, prepare and work the event providing two of the largest donations on Long Island. Mr. Joseph Grasso, Moderator of NHS said “we could not provide this service without the help and caring of our NHS volunteers”.sj

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WinterSport HonorsGIRLS’ BASKETBALL

ALL LEAGUEGianna Locker, Kayla Hill & Janine Conway

MVP AWARDOFFENSIVE – Gianna Locker, DEFENSIVE – Janine Conway

COACHES AWARDEmily Meyer

BOYS’ BASKETBALLALL LEAGUEBrendan EhrhartMVP AWARD

OFFENSIVE – Brendan Ehrhart, DEFENSIVE – Austin Torres

COACHES AWARDEric Torrens

GIRLS’ WINTER TRACKALL LEAGUE

Giselle Barrios, Tyler Brown, Jenna Colucci, Kristen Dulovic, Erin Endres, Kelly Fielder, Annie Fiorillo,

Emily Fiorillo, Alana Mahon, Kate McCormack, Kayla Pollock & Giulianna Vullo

ALL STATEKate McCormack, Erin Endres, Kayla Pollock

MVP AWARDTRACK – Kate McCormack, FIELD – Kayla Pollock

COACHES AWARDErin Endres

BOYS’ WINTER TRACKALL LEAGUE

Dan Antonawich, Pat Dugre, Oscar Frisby, Rory Hannigan, Connor Hatton, Sean Kildare,

Mike LaFemina, Derrick Magwood, Stephen Mercado, Kevin Moss, Frank Pannacchione, Franke Pepe,

Brandon Richardson, James Schneider & Aaron Zigrosser ALL STATE

Rory Hannigan, Sean Kildare & Oscar FrisbyMVP AWARD

TRACK - Rory Hannigan, FIELD – Oscar FrisbyCOACHES AWARD

Pat Dugre

BOYS’ SWIMMINGMVP

Ryan KainCOACHES AWARD

Max Sloan

WRESTLINGALL LEAGUE

Brandon Borrero, Keith Brown, Kenneth Cardali, Drew English, Francis Finn, Robert Gray, Frank Guidice,

Joseph Lanciotti, Michael Weimann & David Wiedenkeller

WRESTLING (CONTINUED)ALL STATE

Brandon Borrero, Keith Brown, Drew English & Jospeh Lanciotti

MVP AWARDKeith Brown

COACHES AWARDDrew English

GIRLS’ BOWLINGALL LEAGUE

Hannah Funk, Katie Lopiccolo & Arisa OssandonMVP AWARDHannah Funk

COACHES AWARDBridget Wisnewski

BOYS’ BOWLINGALL LEAGUE

Liam Mahoney & Joshua LaskowskiALL STATE

Liam MahoneyMVP AWARDLiam Mahoney

COACHES AWARDBrandon O’Donnell

ICE HOCKEYALL LEAGUE

Chuck Peck & Matt AraujoMVP AWARD

OFFENSIVE – Chuck Peck, DEFENSIVE – Matt Araujo

COACHES AWARDJohn Duffy

CHEERLEADINGALL LEAGUE

Teresa CrisciMVP AWARDTeresa Crisci

COACHES AWARDJenna Szabo

KICKLINEMVP AWARD

Elizabeth VeneziaCOACHES AWARD

Joanna Marullo

EQUESTRIANMVP AWARDAlisha Giordano

COACHES AWARDChloe Hoerner

Athletics Athletics Athletics Athletics Athletics Athletics Athletics

jv boys’ bAsketbALL nschsAA

LeAGue chAMpions!equestriAn teAM

7th pLAce At nAtionALs

Senior Alisha Giordano qualified as an individual for the SJB Equestrian team for Nationals. She first qualified during the completion year to compete in Regionals and ended up as the overall high point champion at Regionals. She went on to Zone qualifiers on March 14th and qualified again and advanced to Zone Finals recently. She came in 2nd place at Zone Finals and took 3rd place overall in an elite Class of Champions. The Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) region is very large and has over 300 riders. The IEA was formed and organized to promote and improve the quality of equestrian competition and instruction available to middle and secondary school students. Our Zone 2 includes all regions in NY, NJ and PA. There are 12 Zones in the nation. Alisha competed in Wellington, FL against 300 top riders of the 12 Zones at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on April 24th and took 7th. Go Cougars!

GirLs winter trAck & fieLd pLAce third At the

cAthoLic stAtes. conGrAtuLAtions to

our stAte quALifiers

SJB Varsity Cheerleaders at the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship in Orlando, FL. They have made it to the semi-finals. First time in SJB History! Go Cougars!

Mrs. boukLAs, honored As

cAthoLic schooL AthLetic AdMinistrAtor

of theyeAr

Mrs. Lorraine Bouklas, Girls Athletic Director, was selected by The New York State Athletic Administrators Association as the C.H.S.A.A. Chapter’s Athletic Administrator of the year for 2015. Mrs. Bouklas was presented with the award at the Roy O’Neill Conference Awards Banquet on Thursday, March 19, 2014, at The Saratoga Hilton in Saratoga Springs, New York. This annual award is given to an athletic administrator who has shown evidence of devotion and idealism to athletes through the NYSAAA and has demonstrated their influence in the promotion of athletics in a positive manner. As Principal, Nan Doherty, stated, “Lorraine Bouklas has always been a tremendous advocate for athletics and our student-athletes both at St. John the Baptist and throughout our league. Her energy, organization and passion have been constants during her time here as teacher, coach and Athletic Director. She is an incredible gift to our program and league and a terrific person!”

Congrats to Varsity Head Football Coach, Ralph Carusillo, who has been selected to coach in this summer’s Empire Challenge representing Long Island. The Empire Challenge, also known as the “Boomer Game” for its support of the Boomer Esiason Foundation and its battle against Cystic Fibrosis, will celebrate its 20th anniversary this summer. The game is scheduled for June 23rd at Hofstra University’s Shuart Stadium with NYC competing against a team of Long Island players.

From left to right: Sara Plowman, Fairfield University, Soccer; Colleen Hickey, Fordham University, Soccer; Holly Habyan, Fairfield University, Soccer; Sarah Yurgel, Aldelphi University, Soccer.

AthLetic coLLeGe siGninGs

From left to right: Andrew Ferrante, Philadelphi University, Baseball; Kate McCormack, Fordham University, Track & Field; Carey Browne, Mercy College, Track & Field, Timothy Seeberger, Biola University, Track & Field

Where Are You Now – Class NotesClass of 1972

Class of 1974 Joanne Leoni DeSarle is celebrating 35 years of dedicated service with the New York State Police. She is a Senior Investigator. She is one of the most highly decorated members of Troop K. Senior Investigator Leoni entered the State Police Academy on September 24, 1979. During the brief time she spent as a trooper, she was highly regarded as enthusiastic and hard working. In 1985, she was promoted to Sergeant and named investigator in 1986. In 1996, she was the first woman in State Police history to receive its’ highest honor, the Brummer Award. The Brummer is awarded to those who illustrate heroism, valor or outstanding performance. Leoni was given this award for her role that led to the arrest of three Danbury residents, ending a string of armed robberies in the towns of Southeast and Danbury. Senior investigator Leoni was promoted to Senior Investigator in 1998 and is currently stationed in State Police Department in Hawthorne.Class of 1977

Class of 1982

Class of 1992Jill Suzanne Giovannetti is working for the ASPCA, as an expert in canine behavior. She is currently employed at the ASPCA Behavioral Rehabilitation Center, working on rehabilitating fearful, under-socialized dogs from puppy mills and hoarding situations, using science-based techniques. Prior to working for the ASPCA, she was in the music industry, working for a booking agencies.

Class of 2000

Class of 2003Nora Besendorfer (nee Spadaro), faculty member in the Science Department, her husband Eric, SJB’S Technology Director, and big brother Liam, welcomed their new baby girl, Abigail Shea, on March 3, 2015.Class of 2005

Class of 2006

Class of 2007Brittany Russell is an associate attorney at Belluck & Fox, a New York based law firm specializing in mesothelioma cases. She recently won a $4 million verdict for her client, a plant worker exposed to asbestos. This case set a New York State record for a verdict against an asbestos supplier. The case also set a record in Oneida County as the largest asbestos verdict of any type. Class of 2008

Class of 2009

Class of 2010

Class of 2011Lindsey Pamlanye has been accepted into the Lasallian Volunteers 2015/16 Service Year – a program of the De La Salle Christian Brothers of North America. Lindsey will live in a small Christian community and teach at schools and agencies of the Brothers whose mission is to serve and to empower the poor through education.

Lt. Gen. William T. Grisoli is currently serving as director of the Army Staff at the Department of the Army, Washington D.C.

Gordon Canary is sworn in as a Suffolk County Community College Trustee . Canary was appointed to the post by New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo to replace Walter Hazlitt, 88, of Stony Brook who served as a Trustee for 16 years. Canary’s term expires in June 2020.

Marie Kenyon (née Amendola) has been named director of the newly formed Peace and Justice Commission of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Archbishop Robert J. Carlson made the announcement. Kenyon, who for almost three decades has directed the Catholic Legal Assistance Ministry, will join the staff of the Office of General Counsel for the archdiocese. Marie started Catholic Legal Assistance Ministry 28 years ago, offering legal assistance to families and individuals in need. The ministry, is part of Catholic Charities of St. Louis. “This is an opportunity for me to take a hard look at how (the Church) can help to make systemic changes. I’m honored to be given this position and so grateful to be able to serve.”

Michael Rowan has been selected as the Reserve Command Master Chief (RCMC) for U.S. Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay in Philadelphia, PA. The RCMC is the direct representative of the Commanding Officer on all matters pertaining to efficient and effective management of day-to-day activities in their area of responsibility (AOR). The RCMC assists and advises in enhancing policy, strategy and outreach to the workforce, serves as liaison to the CMC and Chief Petty Officer network and manages communication between the Commanding Officer and senior leaders throughout the AOR. The RCMC provides accurate and timely dissemination of information to the work force, makes routine and frequent visits throughout their AOR and provides field level perspective back to the Commanding Officer. MCPO Rowan’s AOR includes operational units in New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylvania for over 180 enlisted members. MCPO Rowan is the father of Aislinn ‘10 and Patrick ’13.

Chris Wingert is returning to NY to play for the American Football Club after being away from his home and family for a decade. Chris has played for MLS teams Columbus, Colorado and Real Salt Lake. His former coach at Salt Lake, NYC FC boss Jason Kreis, selected him in the December expansion draft. Chris played college soccer at St. John’s University from 2000 to 2003. To read more: http://www.newsday.com/sports/soccer/lier-chris-wingert-comes-home-to-play-for-new-york-city-fc-1.10030617

Jessica Lombardo Wong, a faculty member of the Mathematics Department, and her husband, Nicholas Wong ’02, welcomed their baby boy, Lucas Matthew, on December 22, 2014.

On Saturday, March 14, 2015, eleven friars of the Province of St. Joseph were ordained to the diaconate by Bishop Roger Foys at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on the campus of Catholic University of America: Among them, two members of the Class of ’06: Robert Sica (now known as Brother John Sica) and Robert Murphy (now known as Brother Athanasius Murphy). Please keep these men in your prayers as they continue to prepare for priestly ordination.

Melissa Wood and Luis Garcia, became engaged this past November. The wedding is planned for the July 2016. Melissa is the daughter of Annemarie ’80 and David Wood, SJB’s track coach.

Deanna Knoblauch and Dominick DiGesaro ‘08 are engaged to be married on October 18, 2014. Wedding scheduled to be in June of 2016.

Taylor Soesman and Joanna Fisher ‘11 were married on January 11, 2015. Taylor is currently in the U.S. Navy.

In MemoriamJames Beaton, father of Maureen Hallahan ‘79 and Eileen Whalen ‘80 and grandfather to Kelly Whalen ‘13 on September 14, 2014Peter Cangemi III, son of Barbara Roedel Cangemi ‘70, and Peter Cangemi Jr, on June 19, 2014.Louis Cecere, father of Debbie Lambert, former staff member, grandfather to Timothy ’00 and Patrick ’02 on November 22, 2014.Kathryn Corr, mother of Buddy Corr, former SJB baseball coach and former Man of Vision recipient, grandmother to Buddy Jr. ’81 (deceased) and Christopher ’85, on February 25, 2015.Dr. Kathleen S. Donahue ’81 on December 27, 2014.Robert Feaver, husband of Pat Feaver, former staff member, father to Danny ’02, and Katie ’04, on December 17, 2014.Joan Gargiulo, wife of Andy Gargiulo, former faculty member of the Guidance Department, and mother to Thomas ’75, Carolyn Epifane ’82, and grandmother of Kaitlin Epifane ’08, Meaghan Epifane ’10, and Micaela ‘14 Epifane, on December 2, 2014.Michael Anthony Grosso ’05 on November 15, 2014.Lisa Hickman ’70 (nee Raimondi), sister of David Raimondi ’73 and Mary McConnell ’80, on March 2, 2015.Kerry Anne Jessup ’83 (nee Dee), sister of Catherine Pighini ’88, John Dee ’86, Daniel Dee ’94, James Dee, Terence Dee ’93, sister-in-law of Janine Dee (nee Laino) ’93, and Kelly Dee (nee McNulty) ’86, on March 4, 2015.Herbert Loth, father of Linda Stein, staff member in the Tuition Office, on December 30, 2014.

Stephen M. Mack ’70, brother of Brian ’71 and Kevin ’72, on March 19, 2015.Mary McGowan, mother of Bonnie Abbondola, faculty member in the Art Department and grandmother to Joseph ’10 and Vincent ’13 on February 26, 2015.Richard N. Paganini, former faculty member in the English Department on April 1, 2015.Patrick T. Patwell ’79, brother of Nora Savastano ’81 on February 28, 2015.Patricia Regan ’80 on November 29, 2014.Mary Catherine Sanna, former faculty member in the Religious Studies Department on February 2, 2015. Mavis Seymour, mother of Karlene Johnson, Women of Hope recipient 2007 and long-term volunteer at SJB, grandmother to Jarred Johnson ’05 on March 28, 2014. Patricia Scott, wife of Tom Scott, former Physical Education teacher, mother to Catherine O’Connor ’74, Tom ’75 and Kevin ’80 on January 14, 2015.Scott V. Stelmok, father of Ashley Stelmok ’14 on December 29, 2014.Judith Sussman, mother-in-law of Renee Sussman, faculty member in the Performing Arts Department on December 2014.

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Class of 2012Midshipman Thomas Kloepfer was one of three United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) cadets to receive the Thomas

biG AppLe Get-toGether for younG sjb ALuMni On Thursday February 26, a group of Millennial SJB Alumni met at NYC landmark, Rosie O’Grady’s, to catch up and reconnect. The event, organized by the SJB Alumni Office and hosted by Principal Nan Doherty, is the first of what will be more periodic gatherings of our young alumni. Rallied on by class leaders, Jake Dalpiaz ’04 and Jimmy Hahn ‘07, the group was one of the first to see the new plans for the school’s library renovation.

There were lots of laughs and reminiscing about the good old days at SJB. Everyone enjoyed themselves and left with some great SJB “Bling”. The next SJB Young Alumni get-together will be happening over the summer of 2015 and we look forward to seeing you there. If you want to be on the “to be contacted list” or help us organize the event, please send an email to our Alumni Coordinator, Mrs. O’Donnell at alumni@sjbdhs.org. ALUMNI FOREVER!

Emily Holub received a Higher Education fellowship at Merrimack College in North Andover, MA

Allison O’Donnell has been inducted into Catholic University of America’s Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honor Society for her academic achievement in Musical Theatre at the college’s Benjamin T. Rome School of Music.

Kelly Allar and Tim McGowan became engaged on March 13, 2015 right here at SJB! Tim surprised his fiancé who was here to meet Mrs. Trish Callahan in her classroom. Unbeknownst to Kelly, Tim came in and popped the question, and she said yes.

Katelyn Coon was named Defensive MVP of the Keystone College’s women’s soccer team for the 2014 season. Katelyn is the 2014 Team captain. She started all 17 games in goal and posted a 5-9-3 record and made 108 saves while posting a .761 save percentage. She posted a 2.06 goals-against average for the year while playing 1486:59 as well as recorded lone shutout of the season in a 1-0 win at Baptist Bible College on October 14th.

is studying marine engineering systems with a minor in electrical engineering. He is active at the waterfront with the U.S. Power Squadron, a non-profit educational organization whose mission is to improve maritime safety and enjoyability through classes in seamanship, navigation and other related subjects. During his sea year, Kloepfer sailed aboard the M/V ARC Endurance, M/V APL Belgium and S.S. Horizon Spirit. After graduation in 2016, he plans to go to sea and eventually become a chief engineer.

B. Crowley Sr. Memorial scholarships from the Crowley Maritime Corporation at the Containerization and Intermodal Institute’s Connie Awards luncheon in Newark, N.J in December 2014. Koepler

Will Quick will attend law school at the University of Buffalo in September

Class of 2011 (cont’d)

St.John the BaptiSt DioceSan high School

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PARENTS: If your son/daughter no longer lives at this address, please forward his/her present address to the Alumni Office at alumni@sjbdhs.org.

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heLp st. john’s Go Green by receivinG your newsLetter eLectronicALLy. eMAiL us At alumni@sjbdhs.org, with the MessAGe “I WANT TO GO GREEN”.

This is the second edition of getting ready for 50. It is our way of keeping our SJB Family informed on the plans for celebrating our 50th Anniversary in the Fall of 2016. As part of the library renovation project, which was kicked off late in 2014 and is now in full swing, we are excited about a neat feature that will be part of the new library, 3-D imaging technology. This technology will allow us to create an archive of important artifacts and keepsakes from our 50 year history. Using a 3-D printer we can even print replicas of these scanned items, in three dimensional forms. Principal Nan Doherty announced that SJB will be partnering with St. John’s University Library Science Department where interns from SJU will be working with our students building websites and learning digital archiving processes. If you wish to submit something that reflects SJB’s history, for consideration in our 50th Anniversary Archive, please contact the office of Advancement at 631-587-8000 Ext. 177 or email us at Crossan@sjbdhs.org. Are you an SJB Graduate? Then stay in touch and informed about all things SJB. Please visit our website www.sjbalumni.org and join the Cougar Corner.

Getting ready for...

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR &

FESTIVALsundAy, deceMber 6, 2015

tiMe 10:00 AM – 3:00pM

Crafts, Vendors, Food, Raffles, Live Tree Purchasing, Wreath Trimming etc.

Bring the whole family for a fun-filled day

Vendors wanted: please contact alumni@sjbdhs.org for more information

SAVE THE DATE - SAVE THE DATE

Women of Hope

february 2016