THE MAGAZINE OF BOSTON COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL
Winter 2017
n
Vol. 16 Issue 1
Race Matters at BC High A yearlong exploration of race and racism
Printed with recycled materials.
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e f le cti o n s
IGNATIAN VALUES PROVIDE A MORAL FRAMEWORK DURING TUMULTUOUS TIMES By Mike McGonagle ’70
LOOKING BACK OVER THE SIX DECADES since I first spent time at Boston College High School, I see a certain symmetry between my early student years and recent times. Back then, the Vietnam War was MIKE MCGONAGLE ’70
at its height, and the draft made how you felt about it more than an academic question. Words like Tet, Khe
Mike McGonagle ’70 has been a member of the BC High community for more than four decades. During this time he has served many roles including teacher, football coach, track coach, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid to his present position of Vice Principal for Ignatian Mission and Identity.
Sanh, My Lai, and Agent Orange became part of our vocabulary as television news brought a foreign war
Mike’s current position allows him to work handin-hand with not only faculty and staff, but also students and parents on the important work of implementing our mission into daily life at BC High. Mike’s involvement with students does not end at Morrissey Boulevard as he is a frequent leader on service immersion and cultural immersion trips through the Hyde Center for Global Education. His commitment to service reaches beyond BC High where he is the current Chair of the New England Ignatian Volunteer Corps Regional Council. Mike earned his BA in English from the College of the Holy Cross and a Master’s degree in English from Boston College. He also earned a CAES in School Leadership from Boston College.
into our living rooms nightly for the first time. Civil Rights and the counterculture also challenged our minds and hearts during those years – the Summer of Love giving way less than a year later to widespread civil unrest following the death of Martin Luther King, Jr. We witnessed the violence in Selma, riots in American cities, the introduction of Affirmative Action and the Civil Rights Act, and in October of our senior year more than 100,000 demonstrators demanding an immediate end to the war in Vietnam on Boston Common in the largest anti-war demonstration in New England history. Thank God the Jesuits were here to help us figure it out. Without the moral framework they provided for us to work through ambivalence and zealotry alike, we would have struggled much more than we did, even if the lessons learned sometimes only kicked in years down the road. This year Reverend Brian Conley, SJ, the Superior of the Jesuit Community at BC High, reminded us at the year-opening Mass of the Holy Spirit that while we can be justly proud of our outreach to many marginalized groups through our various service programs and the mite box, that we still have much in our own history to confront. We need look no further than the Jesuits of Georgetown University as models, as they have been seeking to come to terms with their history as slave owners. Starting two years ago, we began to take a hard look at the treatment of women in our community and developed programming to raise everyone’s awareness of our shortcomings in this area. This year we have shifted the focus to race and racism without abandoning our concerns with gender issues. In part, we have stepped forward to participate in the national conversation over the spate of deaths of young black men and women at the hands of law enforcement running from Ferguson to Baton Rouge. The Black Lives Matter movement and its use of social media has forced us to confront uncomfortable realities in real time, much as network news was doing during the Vietnam war. In another way, our efforts this year have been introspective - we have stopped to examine how effectively we honor the commitment in our mission statement that, “…as a Jesuit, Catholic school, we strive to reflect the diversity of our church and community,” so that every student who attends BC High feels equally that it is his school. Crowds are on the streets again, the issues as thorny and complex as the ones my classmates and I faced as students many years ago. At BC High both Jesuits and committed lay people will be working hard to help frame them in a way that our students can make sense of them, as we have always sought to do.
BC High Today
in this issue
Published by: Office for Institutional Advancement Boston College High School 150 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 617-474-5030 • Fax: 617-474-5035 www.bchigh.edu
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Winter 2017 • Vol. 16 Issue 1 William Kemeza, President OFFICE FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
SPECIAL FEATURE
Race Matters
Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement Colleen Carter ccarter@bchigh.edu
A year-long look at race and racism
Associate Director of Communications William L. Burke ’52, GP’17 burke@bchigh.edu Director of Alumni Relations Matthew J. Curran ’89, P’22 curran@bchigh.edu Advancement Systems Manager Kimberly Duong duong@bchigh.edu
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Director of Major Gifts and Strategic Partnerships Tara Esfahanian P’21 tesfahanian@bchigh.edu
SPECIAL FEATURE
Catalysts of Change
Director of Parent Programs Kim Jennings P’21 kjennings@bchigh.edu
BC High alumni lead the way in overcoming obstacles of inequality
Assistant Director of Development Joseph Maher ’03 jmaher@bchigh.edu Director of Individual Gifts and Estate Planning Daniel Kenslea, Jr. ’71 dkenslea@bchigh.edu Director of Development Staci McDonnell P’19, ’22 smcdonnell@bchigh.edu Operations Assistant Ellen M. McKenzie mckenzie@bchigh.edu
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
departments
S. John Hajjar II ’83, P’19
2 On the Boulevard
Reverend Vincent Biagi, SJ
William Kemeza, Ex-Officio
Brendan O. Bradley, PhD ‘87, P’16,’18
J. Frank Keohane, Esq. ‘53, GP’12,’14
5 BC Hire
Gregory E. Bulger ‘68
William J. LaPoint, Jr. ‘80
Patrick F. Cadigan, PhD ’52
John H. McCarthy P’94, ’99
Reverend William Campbell, SJ
Paul F. McManus, Jr. ‘74
John R. Carroll ‘86
John A. McNeice, Jr. ’50, GP’13,
Patricia A. Casey
Reverend Brian Conley, SJ, Ex-Officio
John F. McQuillan, Jr. ‘83, Chairman
Joseph Corcoran’80, P’11
William J. Murphy, Jr. ‘60,
Daniel Coughlin, Jr. ’70
P’87,’89,’93,’95,’09
Paul J. Donato ’95
James M. Norton ’86, P’21, ’22
J. Barry Driscoll ‘48, GP’06,’18,’18,
Timothy S. O’Donnell, Esq. ’83
24 Faculty & Staff Notes
25 BC High Launches New Website 26 The Scene
Martin J. Dunn, DMD ’53
Frank E. Previte ‘61, Vice-Chairman
John F. Ferraro ‘73
Michael C. Ray, Esq. ’86
Margaret M. Florentine
Kelly A. Verrochi P’15
Anne Tamer Hajjar P’16,’18,’21
Richard D. Walsh ‘65
Reverend Mario Powell, SJ
Director of Marketing & Communications Editor, BC High Today Jennifer Tegan P‘17 jtegan@bchigh.edu Copy Editors Bill Burke ’52, Leslie LaRocca Design Mary-Lynne Bohn, Accent Design, Inc. Printing Mass Printing, Inc. Photography LifeTouch Photography Lisa Fischer Photography John Gillooly ’89, Professional Event Images, Inc.
28 In Memoriam
Souren G. Ouzounian ’85, Secretary
Trustee Emeritus
Development Assistant Suzann Sweeney sweeney@bchigh.edu
20 Alumni News Notes
Trustee Emeritus
John B. Dunn ’79, P’16
18 Athletics in the News
14 150th Anniversary Campaign
Internship Coordinator Kristine Smith Kristine.smith@bchigh.edu
John F. Barros ’92
If you would like to send a letter to the editor or update your information, please send the information to the address listed above, or e-mail alumni@bchigh.edu.
BC High Today 1
medscience skills lab
Learning on the Front Line Science teacher Livia Rizzo’s Human Physiology class boards
the BC High bus once a week to travel to the HMS MedScience Simulation Lab in downtown Boston. Students challenge themselves and their classroom knowledge by utilizing critical thinking and problem solving skills while working in a team of their peers. This program is made possible by Harvard Medical School MEDscience STEM education initiative. The class is split into two groups, one group serving in the skills lab where they might learn how to suture a wound, insert an IV, stabilize a spinal cord injury or tie a tourniquet. The other group experiences real-life excitement in the simulated emergency room where they must communicate, diagnose and treat patients. They will administer drugs, perform CPR, order EKGs and drug tests while working collaboratively and under pressure to give quality care. This type of hands-on learning deepens the connection to the academic curriculum. On a recent visit, the robotic interaction patient had overdosed on cocaine and experienced a heart attack. She was
Anatomy physiology students in the MEDscience skills lab.
irritable and would not answer questions honestly and the boys had to be patient, gain her trust and order a series of tests so they could diagnose the patient. The Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services, Mary Lou Sudders, was visiting and witnessed the students in action and was impressed with the level of care given. The bus ride home is always filled with lots of questions and conversation about the cases, “This class has taught me skills and abilities that I will be able to use for the rest of my life and has fostered my passion for the sciences” said student Erik Barber ’17.
N THE BOULEVARD
hyde center for global education
Expanding Its Footprint
The
Hyde Center for Global Education continues to grow and expand both in the scope and reach of global education initiatives in the programs offered to students to travel the world! This year alone, the Hyde Center has initiated new cooperatives in Guatemala, Scotland and Rwanda for a total of 13 partnerships around the world. Participating in service programs, collaborative retreats, and academic exchanges, more than 200 BC High students travel each year through the Hyde Center. This year the Hyde Center officially launched the Hyde Scholars program, BC High’s unique track for students interested in pursuing global and cultural competence beyond BC High’s traditional opportunities. Students will participate in collaborative projects, travel the world, and embrace opportunities to become more familiar with world cultures, languages, customs and traditions. More than 50 students have enrolled in the inaugural cohort.
Dean of Instructional Technology Jennifer Mclarnon P’19,’21 met with 5th Years/11th Graders at St Aloysius’ College higher history class.
2 BC High Today
Both the expansion of student travel opportunities and the efforts to intentionally provide global interconnectedness as a fundamental component of a BC High education, represent the Hyde Center’s strong belief and desire that all BC High students should have the opportunity for a global education. Stay tuned!
winter musical
Arrupe Students Discover Their Inner Elf Engaging in the performing arts is invaluable in building self-
esteem, nurturing creativity and developing skills and techniques that can be used throughout a person’s life. From the very beginning of seventh grade, Arrupe students experience music, drawing and acting as part of their coursework. They are encouraged to spread their wings and try out for the Arrupe Division musical held in the winter. “Theatre challenges the students to open their minds, explore different worlds through scripts and characters, and to be able to tell a story in a variety of ways. It is a creative outlet for them to express their thoughts and views on the world, improving their relationships and improving the world around them. It is a gateway to their endless creativity and imagination. For many of the students in the play, this is their first experience on the stage. I want them to have an appreciation for the work that goes into a production. This process helped the kids learn patience, public speaking, empathy, but most of all teamwork and the appreciation for others and their contributions.” – Director of Drama, Janet Petitbon
This year’s production of Elf, Jr. ran before Christmas and featured Brady Connolly ’21 as the main character, Buddy the Elf. The musical has Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawling into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised unaware that he is actually human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh reality that his father is on the naughty list and that his half-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York City remember the true meaning of Christmas.
humanitarian efforts
Refugee Awareness Week In February, BC High began a week long focus to raise awareness on the growing humanitarian issues of refugees in the world. In collaboration with the Jesuit Refugee Service, the Hyde Center for Global Education and Campus Ministry, students were provided experiential learning opportunities to simulate what life is like for this growing population. While it is impossible to fully comprehend what it is like to be forced from your home and live as a refugee, students from several religious education classes were given scenarios such as, choosing between bringing extra clothing or choosing to bring extra water for their long journey. For example, to represent the size of a rescue boat, a 6’x8’ rectangle of tape was placed on the floor in the Cadigan Atrium for students to sit in. Discussion on what to do if the boat capsized or if refugees were captured seemed to sink in for the 6th period world religion class going through the simulation. During the week, students also had the opportunity to view the powerful documentary Salam Neighbor, a film documenting the experiences of American filmmakers Zach Ingrasci and Chris Temple when they lived among 85,000 Syrians in Jordan’s Za’atari refugee camp, which lies seven miles from the Syrian border.
Simulation exercise of a 6’x8’ refugee rescue boat.
BC High Today 3
N THE BOULEVARD
Essay Winner Nick Fahy ’18 Walks the Silk Road He is a walker who isn’t into limits when it comes to where
he sets his feet. He’s also a thinker, a teen-ager concerned about where the world is headed as he and his peers move onto the adults’ set of stairs. To chat with Nick Fahy, Class of 2018, in the secure, quiet setting of a study room on the BC High campus, where even moderate talk seems immoral, is to listen to a modest and soft-spoken but clearly determined young man as he peers into his future. “I hope to join the State Department after I finish my education,” he says, adding, “that is where things will be happening.” But that will be then; for now, Nick, a Milton resident, is juggling the BC High curriculum, personal research and writing activities, a social life and his Boy Scout experience, with Eagle status next up on the docket. Not to leave out that in the middle of all that there was his participation in the Out of Eden Walk in September, a 50-mile trek across a dusty expanse of Uzbekistan, the central Asian home to ancient Samarkand and Tashkent and for millennia host to travelers along the Silk Road of legend. All of which takes some explanation. The essence of the Eden Walk is that it’s a narrative offering a lesson in history, geography, and cultural appreciations. The National Geographic fellow and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Paul Salopek is retracing, step by step, the route early humans used to migrate from Africa across Asia, over the Pacific, and down to the bottom of the Americas, a route that is about 21,000 miles long. He is about three years into his journey, with hopes of arriving at his destination before a decade is up.
The point of the walk, National Geographic says, is to reflect on current events as a form of pilgrimage. By using the history of our migration as a backdrop for international news, Salopek will examine the most important global stories of our day via “slowform” journalism from Nick Fahy in English class. ground level, at three miles an hour, with the world invited to “walk along” via the internet. Nick Fahy didn’t need the internet to participate; he walked the walk. The project’s educational mission is supported by the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting, which earlier this year sponsored an “Out of Eden Walk” essay contest. The question posed for contestants was: “What do you notice about a place when you slow down?” Nick’s essay, a granular look at daily life and opportunities in a Boston neighborhood, earned him the top prize: He was to join Salopek and a number of other companions and supporters for a two-day caravan across a stretch of central Asia, watching and listening to the sights and sounds of daily life around them. Uniformity was not the order of the march; the trekkers, who in all spoke six languages, wore what was comfortable for them. A story written for the Pulitzer Center by Mark Schulte, Nick’s walking partner and chaperone, about their experience relays this from Nick’s notebook: “There is a beauty to this. The openness of the land leaves room for the vastness of the sky.… We live in a world that has walls. But they are not the walls of a nation, the walls of security, but rather the walls of our consciousness, the walls that ride up against us as we walk down Fifth Avenue in New York, or down the streets of a certain suburb of Boston.…They are the literal and figurative walls which narrow the sky above us, which prevent us from staring at one end of the horizon where it converges with the earth and tracing it across the sky to the other end uninterrupted.” While studying in a tiny corner of the world, the classrooms of BC High on the Columbia Point peninsula in Dorchester, Nick is thinking big picture as he frames the little pictures of life at home. “There’s so much to look forward to,” he says. “I have got to be part of it.”
At the end of the second day of hiking, Paul Salopek and Boy Scout Nicholas Fahy ’18 pose together in the Kyzyl Kum Desert. Image by Mark Schulte. Uzbekistan, 2016.
4 BC High Today
Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr. ’60 is a retired managing editor of The Boston Globe who writes regularly for BC High Today.
CALLING ALUMNI, PARENTS AND FRIENDS OF BC HIGH...
Link Young Alumni to Internships at Your Company Help the BC High network by connecting us to internships at your company or be a resource to other opportunities. Our young alumni are eager to gain life experience in their fields of study and build their resumes. This is an excellent way to grow the BC High network and give back to our community.
“It was certainly a pleasure to have six current and former graduates of BC High for a seven-week internship this summer. These young men got the opportunity to learn about the financial services industry in a fast-paced and constantly changing economic environment while at State Street. All of these students exhibited a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, a testament to the academic rigor and preparedness they receive on a daily basis at BC High.” – Chris Kowilcik P’17, ’17
THE FACTS ABOUT BC HIRE: Established two years ago by members of our network to help our young alumni Last summer, BC Hire offered 140 opportunities The BC Hire program provides career-readiness opportunities for our young alumni Many of the BC Hire interns were offered full-time employment upon college graduation
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FOR EMPLOYERS
The BC Hire program is seeking paid internships for young alumni this summer. Help connect us to internships at your company or be a resource to other opportunities.
FOR YOUNG ALUMNI To learn more about internships for the summer of 2017 please visit our website www.bchigh.edu/bchire • Follow the steps for getting started • Join our Facebook page: facebook.com/groups/bchire
PLEASE CONTACT KRISTINE SMITH WITH ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PROGRAM: 617.474.5102 OR BCHIRE@BCHIGH.EDU
BC High Today 5
Our stu dents hav e always sha red a wi llingness to engage with topics that expand their com fort zones – both in and beyond the classroom. As we challenge ourselv es to lead liv es of cha racter and justice, we must also con front the uncomfortable ways inequalities arise and persist in our communities. One way we do this at BC High is by cho osing an issue to explore in depth over the course of the school yea r. This yea r we elected to examine race.
RACE S R E T T A M
A Y EA R LO N G EX PLO RATIO N O F RA C E A N D RA C IS M By Adrian Pio with contributions from Kimberly Smith, al Vice Principal for Curriculum and Profession Development and Luc Benjamin ’17, Addy Duong ’17 and Will Hansberry ’17
6 BC High Today
Common threads In keeping with our Jesuit heritage and values, BC High remains deeply committed to educating young men who embody compassion, competence, and conscience in their daily lives as well as in their academic and professional pursuits. Our unique community welcomes students from all walks of life, who find in our halls and homerooms a sense of kinship that lasts long after they graduate. Our community’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths; students often learn more from one another than they could ever learn from a textbook.
Participants: Jiar Ahmed, Matt Aumiller, Christina Baik, Andrew Doucet, Melissa Ewing, Sheila Fisher, Katie Griswold, James Hutchison, Eric Mendoza, Michael Miller ’91, Nelson Miranda ’92, Kay Myers, Patricia O’Neill, Emil Penarubia, and Bryce Scottron ’97. Melville Director, Ron Fletcher ’87.
As they do, they come to recognize the common human threads that connect us, learn to see things from different points of view, and discover that diverse ideas make us all wiser and more loving. Often these lessons present themselves organically, whether by collaborating with a classmate on a group project or staying late practicing foul shots with a teammate. But some topics – especially those we find most challenging – require more attention and discussion. Ruth Evee P’18,’22, the school’s director of equity and inclusion, explains, “It’s vital that students learn to discuss these types of issues openly and respectfully, especially during their formative years.”
The Joan Melville Summer Institute
Last year our community resolved to find ways to be more explicit about instilling our values as they relate to difficult topics such as identity and social justice. Our faculty, acknowledging our students’ desire to play a more active role in the evolving national conversation about race, selected race and racism as our collective focal point for the current academic year. Luc Benjamin ’17 explains why he felt it was the right time to bring this difficult subject into the light: “I wanted to talk about racism in the context of things like the death of Trayvon Martin, but those felt like single events instead of a bigger conversation. Now with current events and the way that movements like Black Lives Matter are creating more awareness of inequalities in our nation, the time is – Ruth Evee P’18,’22, Director definitely right.” of Equity and Inclusion
“It’s vital that students learn to discuss these types of issues openly and respectfully, especially during their formative years.”
Getting down to business Our community began to confront this complex issue during the Joan Melville Summer Institute. This intensive two-week professional development workshop touched on various topics related to race and racism – both within our community and in the nation. The ongoing generosity of Dave Melville ’57 made it possible for Ron Fletcher ’87, English teacher and Melville director, to collaborate with his colleagues and then to to orchestrate a program that included top-flight scholars and experienced educators.
In 2000, Dave Melville ‘57 funded the creation of this special professional development program in honor of his wife’s devotion to teaching. By bringing together a diverse group of faculty and staff to discuss key topics within our community, his gift continues to promote excellence at BC High and enables us to keep pace with the complex challenges facing our students today. The result was a number of immensely valuable presentations and sessions. Dr. Khalil Gibran Muhammad, professor of History, Race and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, spoke about systemic racism in the U.S. and identified historical and cultural literacy as vital tools for combating the ignorance that lies at its root. Dr. Bethany Nelson of Emerson College explained how students’ cultural traditions shape their approaches to academics, and how necessary it is for teachers to recognize intelligence and potential on a personal level. Dr. Peter Nien-chu Kiang, professor and director of the Asian American Studies Program at the University of Massachusetts Boston, revealed the importance of first-person narratives for students outside the majority group and shared a sampling of his students’ video memoirs – an idea that resonated with several teachers to the extent that they planned to provide a similar opportunity to their own students over the year. But while the guests were both insightful and inspiring, it was the voices of BC High students and recent alumni that carried furthest. They were able to identify problematic moments and events they had experienced within our community. Rather than invoking abstract notions of equality, they provided poignant – and difficult to hear – examples of where we can do better at BC High. But any initial discomfort quickly gave way to a certainty. “Our efforts must begin with the experiences of those students on the frontline and, paradoxically, the margins,” said Ron Fletcher. “Their voices must frame and guide our two-week inquiry and, most important, provide the prelude to the work ahead.” BC High Today 7
“Our efforts must begin with the experiences of those students on the frontline and, paradoxically, the margins.” – Ron Fletcher ’87, English teacher and Melville director
Students expressed a wish for a more diverse faculty who shared their ethnic, racial, or cultural identity, but they also voiced a willingness to grant real latitude to those current teachers who stumble in their attempts to address the difficult, complex, awkward moments that race so often presents. They spoke of a shared awareness of teachers whose “heart was in the right place,” who may falter at times but who attempt an honest, constructive conversation with their students. Students also encouraged the continuation of recent efforts to modify the curriculum to reflect the diversity of student experiences and histories within our community. What we heard would become the foundation for our dialogue, and gave participants a new sense of purpose. Nicholas Sommer ’17 remarked, “This is a very good thing for BC High and I am heartened and encouraged to hear that there will be meaningful and substantive discussion about race and racism.” At the end of the program, participants collaboratively authored and presented a series of institutional recommendations to the administration, and promised to share their work and goals with the entire faculty throughout the year.
A collective effort Inspired by the work of the Melville summer program, the BC High community invited speakers, created book clubs, led reflective prayer, developed explicit and communal lesson plans, re-tweaked retreats, showed films, accessed professional development, partnered with social agencies, and engaged in ongoing conversation about the topic. The range of activities have made it possible for every member of the community to participate. We recently held our annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Service in January. At the suggestion – and with the encouragement – of Ruth Evee, students helmed the planning and gave the welcome and keynote addresses, both of which related to their concerns about race and racism at BC High. Addy Duong ’17 saw this as a successful way to connect Dr. King’s specific legacy to the enduring pursuit of social justice. He says, “It was powerful for the younger students to hear from their peers. I think it’s important to model good behavior and remember that we can all be part of positive change.”
FEATURED ACTIVITIES SEPTEMBER: During our annual Mass of the Holy Spirit on the feast day of Peter Claver, Reverend Brian Conley, SJ, made race and racism in America the center point of his homily. Principal Steve Hughes announced race and racism as the focus for the year. OCTOBER: Dr. Roland Davis addressed the entire student body about unconscious bias, white privilege and institutional racism. The guidance office hosted a coffee for parents to preview the work of the year.
8 BC High Today
Dr. Davis with a small focus group of students.
Dr. Khalil Gibran Muhammad spoke to the junior and senior class on the history of racism.
Students had a similar opportunity to learn from their peers when BC High hosted the Association of Independent Schools of New England (AISNE) Middle School Students’ of Color Conference in February. More than 200 students attended from independent schools throughout the region. BC High Arrupe students were participants, and with the support of Evee who supervises the Black and Latino Student Union, our BLSU students helped coordinate and lead one of the workshops.
In addition to these events, BC High teachers have worked diligently to integrate these events and activities into the curriculum, where students can get a better grasp on the themes of certain movements and draw connections across history. “We were assigned ‘Letters from a Birmingham Jail’ after the MLK Day service,” says Will Hansberry ’17. “This gave us a chance to really explore Dr. King’s ideas and see how much or how little things have changed since his time.”
NOVEMBER: The Social Studies Department hosted a showing of the Netflix documentary 13th that was attended by more than 300 students.
DECEMBER: Depending on their grade level, students attended presentations by one of two visiting speakers who discussed mass incarceration: Dr. Khalil Gibran Muhammad or Matthew Cuff, who works as a Policy Associate for the National Advocacy office of the Jesuit Conference of the US and Canada.
After Thanksgiving a faculty/parent book club convened to discuss one of three titles in which race places a key role: The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates and Nobody by Marc Lamont Hill. NETFLIX
Later that week, Bryce Scottron ’97, a BC High adjustment counselor, delivered a presentation at the Father and Son Communion Breakfast about implicit bias.
BC High Today 9
Will Hansberry ’17, Principal Steve Hughes ’73, P’98, Addy Duong ’17 and Luc Benjamin ’17
For example, the social studies department will be centering their March curriculum on the topic of historical literacy. With a focus on race in selected American cities, these lessons will attempt to help students to understand that today’s issues are not new in this country. “It is the department’s hope that these lessons – Will Hansberry ’17 will demonstrate the ways in which racial injustice originated, persisted, was challenged, and continues to be resisted in a variety of our nation’s cities.” says Sean Irwin, chairperson of the Social Studies department at BC High. Concurrently, the Math department will adopt a numerical lens as they explore inequality over time. Students will investigate the instances and persistence of racism using statistics and finances.
“We really need to reach out and educate people in a lot of different ways.”
10 BC High Today
The work continues Though much has been accomplished, there is much more planned for the year. The topic is woven into the curriculum already, but our hope is that making a commitment to additional lessons will further highlight the importance of our own historical literacy about racism in America. Additionally, staff and administrators continue to explore options for different speakers to visit to address students in both small and large settings. So far, our entire community has learned a great deal about who we are and who we hope to be: loving, religious, intellectually competent, open to growth, and committed to justice. We’ve also – individually and collectively – learned about ways we can do a better job of living the values we espouse. “We can’t become complacent when the year is over,” cautions Addy Duong. “There’s always more work to do, and we have to be the ones who keep moving the conversation forward.” In keeping with
“I want to continue the work they started, because constantly working to be better is not only about yourself, but those that come after you. We have to pay it forward.” – Luc Benjamin ’17
Taking the Lessons Home Thinking critically and intentionally about racial issues has helped BC High students analyze the influences and effects of race in other contexts as well. For example, Will Hansberry volunteers at a non-profit in Dorchester where he works with a family of Somali immigrants. He says, “Recently I’ve been really concerned about them and their future. These are good, hardworking people who have come in search of the American dream, but it’s not always easy for them to fit in here. We really need to reach out and educate people in a lot of different ways.”
that sentiment, every member of our community has been challenged to recognize we are all works in progress: evershifting selves in an ever-shifting world working to create a just and loving place. That work, of course, is never complete – and could not be more important, given the state of our world today. Luc Benjamin echoes Addy’s message: “From Frederick Douglass to Rosa Parks, so many people were part of that struggle to make things better for our generation. I want to continue the work they started, because constantly working to be better is not only about yourself, but those that come after you. We have to pay it forward.”
Members of the Diversity Cabinet that led the Martin Luther King, Jr. prayer service on January 13, 2017 featuring NAACP Boston President Michael A. Curry, Esq. and Reverend William Broderick, II from the Twelfth Baptist Church
BC High Today 11
Catalysts of Change in the scho ol year to them ed discussions Long before the BC High comm unity devoted time fested their commitment to inclusivity such as race and gender, thes e alumni have mani ge eith er in their chos en profession or and service while serving as catalysts of chan oyed the distinctive leadership qualities their comm unity. They have embodied and empl d in the way of equality. necessary to overcome the obstacles that stan OF MAR KETIN G AND COM MUN ICATI ONS BY JENN IFER M. TEGA N P’17, DIREC TOR
Fritz Friedman ’68 Raised in the South End and now living in California, Fritz Friedman has history of breaking down barriers and being a social activist while maintaining a high profile career as a successful corporate entertainment marketing executive. Even at BC High nearly 50 years ago – decades before the Ignatian concept of “Men for others” was coined – he was a strong participant in BC High’s social service programs including its inner-city tutorial projects and initiatives for racial equality. Fritz was the first Asian American to hold a management role at a major film studio when he joined Columbia Pictures where he ultimately Fritz Friedman ’68 with his long became head of time friend, actress Meryl Streep. worldwide publicity and corporate communications for Sony Pictures’ multi-billiondollar–a-year Home Entertainment division and Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions. During his extraordinary 34 year tenure at Sony Pictures Entertainment, he not only oversaw the publicity campaigns for thousands of highly successful film and television productions such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind, the Spider-Man franchise and the television hits Seinfeld and Breaking Bad, but also oversaw the marketing communication for the global launches of such new technologies as the DVD, Blu-ray, Ultra-Violet, 3-D at home, and Sony’s foray into digital distribution. After leaving Sony Pictures, Fritz became a founding partner of “The Group,” a Los Angeles-based strategic communications and marketing firm with sensitivity towards diversity. He currently works
12 BC High Today
on marketing initiatives for several companies including Sony Pictures, Electric Entertainment, and Parrot Analytics. Friedman served as associate producer for several films including “The State of Marriage,” a documentary on marriage equality, and the live-action bio-pic on world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao. Fritz is currently an adjunct professor at the prestigious Annenberg School for Communications and Journalism of The University of Southern California. Fritz also shares his talents with several volunteer organizations such as; the Coalition of Asian Pacific’s in Entertainment (CAPE), which he co-founded 25 years ago and is the largest entertainment networking platform for AsianAmericans in the world. He also serves on the Selection Committee for the Democratic National Convention and was, most recently, re-appointed by California Governor Jerry Brown to a second three-year term on the California Commission on the Humanities. Fritz also sits on the Boards of Directors for Loyola Productions, the Jesuit content development and Production Company, and The Leaders Forum, a national Asian American organization focused on
Lloyd Wilkey ’73
alumni profiles getting Asian Americans into C-suite positions and senior level/cabinet level government office and the President’s Development Council of Vassar College. Fritz has never been known to shy away from a challenge, and along with celebrity Lou Diamond Phillips, successfully lobbied Congress to gain veterans benefits for more than 18,000 Filipino Veterans of World War II. For this he was given a Presidential Citation by the Philippine government.
Lloyd Wilkey ’73 There are many words that describe Lloyd Wilkey; boxer, trainer, coach, facilitator, community organizer, passionate, and civic minded. Lloyd moved to the Los Angeles area after BC High and began his work in the wake of the civil unrest occurring in 1992 following the videotaped beating of Rodney King at the hands of the Los Angeles Police Department. This break-down of the world as he knew it led him to leave his job in banking and devote his life to bringing his city back together.
Alberto Vasallo, III ’85
Lloyd is a recognized expert on community police relations. He facilitates law enforcement training, community dialogues, and engages in activism to advance his concept of Mindful Policing. He advocates for policies and procedures which will result in transparency, accountability, and restorative justice. Lloyd is a valued faculty member of the Simon Wiesenthal CenterMuseum of Tolerance, Los Angeles and a National Trainer for the Anti-Defamation League. Nearly every law enforcement officer in California passes through the Museum of Tolerance in Beverly Hills where they participate in seminars on diversity, tolerance and dealing with issues at the ethnic margins. The LAPD was first to sign up for the Museum’s Tools for Tolerance program when it started in 1996. Lloyd places a great value on his work as a youth program director, coach, and mentor. He has built positive relationships with young people, developed youth leadership, and encouraged the strengthening of family ties, advocated for fair and equitable treatment in schools and institutions, contributed to reductions in community violence, bullying, crime, truancy, drug abuse, obesity, and other poor health outcomes. This journey has successfully afforded Lloyd the opportunity to work collaboratively with governmental agencies, school districts, non-profits, law enforcement, and business interests to forge alliances and push for progress, to navigate through conflict and develop strategic plans of change.
Alberto Vasallo, III ’85 Alberto Vasallo, III ’85 learned very early on how to be a “trailblazer” in his life. He didn’t have to look to far from
his namesake, Alberto Vasallo, Jr. who started El Mundo newspaper more than four decades ago. Born in Cuba, his father had a work ethic like no other and poured his heart and soul into the newspaper and the importance of connecting the greater Boston Latino community. Alberto, III took over the family business and is President and CEO of El Mundo, the largest Latino newspaper in New England. He is also the 100% shareholder of Caribe Communications and Publications, the parent company of El Mundo Boston and is one of the longest running Latino television personalities and producers in the Boston market. Beginning in 1995, he has worked for two television shows on Channel 7, NBC (Revista Hispana and Urban Update) as both producer and host. Alberto’s love of baseball, writing and reporting helped him with a partnership with the Boston Red Sox in creating The Latino Youth Recognition days at Fenway Park. This nationally recognized community outreach program includes a pre-game ceremony with Red Sox players before a game honoring top Latino academic achievers. To date, the program has honored over 1,500 Latino public school students for their academic achievements and has given away over 15,000 Red Sox tickets to community. It is now in its 20 season. Mr. Vasallo is also the creator of the annual “El Mundo Latino Family Festival” at Fenway Park, which is the largest cultural event of its kind in New England, bringing together 10,000 Latinos of all ages in a unique experience that includes a health and fitness festival with over 50 exhibitors and concert series. He has received numerous awards for his work in the community as well as for his groundbreaking events and exclusive and in-depth coverage of the Latino community through his various media platforms.
BC High Today 13
$77.5 M
390
TOTAL RAISED
CAMPAIGN DONORS
With Gratitude... Launched in March 2011 to address three main initiatives – enhance our ability to increase scholarships and tuition assistance, strengthen our Jesuit identity, and improve our facilities – the 150th Anniversary Campaign was the most ambitious in BC High history. The Campaign embraced both BC High’s distinct heritage and its vision for the future. Look at what we accomplished together:
32
NEW SCHOLARSHIPS CREATED
14 BC High Today
125,000
SQ FT RENOVATED SPACE
7,958
NUMBER OF DONORS DURING THE CAMPAIGN
290
NEW DONORS
130
NEW COMPANIONS’ CIRCLE MEMBERS
$12m
LARGEST GIFT
An Enduring Impact Campaign donors helped us to renovate or build new spaces throughout campus with long term impact on students for many years to come. Newly renovated space includes:
Cadigan Hall • Hajjar Dining Hall cornelius J. Keohane ’51 Track • J. Donald Monan, SJ Park Hyde Center for Global Education
CADIGAN HALL
CORNELIUS J. KEOHANE ’51 TRACK
J. DONALD MONAN, SJ PARK
BC High Today 15
Campaign Timeline
Hajjar Dining Hall Named Through a generous gift from Anne and Charles Hajjar ’82, P’16,’18,’21 the student dining hall was renamed.
Campaign Begins What began with an extraordinary gift from Frank & Ellen Previte in March of 2011 has turned into the most successful fundraising effort in the school’s history.
The Fund for BC High $2,916,246 raised as of June 30, 2015.
Hyde Center for Global Education Established
Celebration at Symphony Hall
The Lawrence H. Hyde ’42 Center for International Studies at Boston College High School was established through a generous gift from Mr. Hyde in 2012. The gift signified his commitment to Jesuit education at BC High and the continuous pursuit of promoting “internationalism among young people.”
BC High celebrated its 150th Anniversary in grand style at Boston’s Symphony Hall and officially launched the 150th Anniversary Campaign. The more than 2,500 guests were entertained by members of the BC High Liturgical Musicians, the BC High Concert Band, BC High Concert Choir, and the Dever Players.
The Fund for BC High $2,818,352 raised as of June 30, 2012.
Cadigan Hall Built from $12 Million Gift from Tandra and Patrick Cadigan ’52
16 BC High Today
NOVEMBER 2013
BC High began celebrating its Sesquicentennial Celebration with the outdoor Mass of the Holy Spirit with Boston College held at Fenway Park.
OCTOBER 2013
Mass at Fenway Park
2013
SEPTEMBER 2012
JUNE 2012
2012
2011
The $12 million commitment to BC High is the largest in the school’s history and the largest ever received by a Catholic secondary school in New England. With these funds the school built Cadigan Hall, 28,000 square feet of space dedicated to music, fine and performing arts and athletics.
The Fund for BC High $3,060,427 raised as of June 30, 2014.
Dedication of Keohane Track The BC High track was completely refurbished and expanded through a generous donation by J. Frank Keohane ’53 named in memory of his brother Cornelius “Connie” J. Keohane ’51 and his remarkable running career.
Menino Scholars Meet the Mayor The Mayor Thomas M. Menino Scholars Program was created, to honor his 20 years of service to our city and his unwavering commitment to education. The Scholars Program supports academically qualified young men from the City of Boston to attend BC High. The first recipients of the scholarships were able to meet Mayor Menino for a special luncheon.
Stephen P. Hughes ’73 Scholarship Announced In recognition of Principal Steve Hughes and his lifelong commitment to the care of the young men of BC High, the class of 1973 endowed a scholarship in his name. This lasting legacy will provide an opportunity for students with financial need.
The Fund for BC High $3,332,642 raised as of June 30, 2016.
Monan Park Groundbreaking
Campaign Close Celebration Dinner On October 29, BC High celebrated the closing of the successful 150th Anniversary Campaign that raised more than $77 million. At the dinner a surprise announcement was made that an extra $1 million was raised for an endowed scholarship for retiring President Bill Kemeza.
OCTOBER 2016
JUNE 2016
$3,166,077 raised as of June 30, 2015.
NOVEMBER 2015
The Fund for BC High
JUNE 2015
MAY 2015
OCTOBER 2014
JUNE 2014
The collaboration between BC High and UMass Boston is the result of a public-private partnership anchored by a $2 million commitment from the Yawkey Foundation, named in honor of J. Donald Monan, SJ. Fr. Monan was deeply honored as he spoke to the nearly 250 attendees about the project and what the new facility will do for the youth in the Columbia Point Area.
BC High Today 17
ATHLETICS GOLF TEAM COMES UP SHORT FOR OVERALL TITLE; NATE INGRAM ’19 WINS FIRST INDIVIDUAL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP IN SCHOOL HISTORY
IN THE NEWS
In challenging conditions at Franklin Park, the varsity golf team finished third overall in the state. While falling short of the ultimate goal, of special note were the efforts of Nathan Ingram ‘19. Nathan won the overall state individual championship in a 4-way playoff. This recap of the individual tournament play was provided by teammate Malcolm Herbert ’18, who also writes for the student newspaper, The Eagle:
L to R: Head Coach Chris Hayes ’85, P’17, Joe Paolucci ’20, Nathan Ingram ’19, Clayton Piantedosi ’18, David Driscoll ’18, Peter Lagrotteria (c) ’17, James Sexton ’17, Mike Dunderdale ’18, Nathaniel Robards ’18, Malcolm Herbert ’18, Jack O’Donnell ’20 and Assistant Coach Guerin Miller
FOLLOW BC HIGH ATHLETICS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
@BCHIGHATHLETICS
BC HIGH SPORTS
18 BC High Today
Nate Ingram ’19 won the Division 1 Individual Golf State Title, becoming the first golfer from BC High to do so. Conditions were miserable – whipping 20-30 mph winds added to the already frigid 40° temperature.The top six players on each team represent the schools, and since I am on the varsity team but outside the top six, I had the opportunity to attend and support my teammates. It was an unforgettable experience. Two of my teammates and I followed various groups around the golf course, but it was clear Nate was the player to follow. While many players were buckling under the brutal conditions, Nate was thriving. We caught up with Nate on the 12th hole (his 6th hole of the day as it was a shotgun start), Franklin Park’s toughest hole. Nate made a clutch up and down for par to keep up his momentum, and headed to the 13th tee. We then watched as he stuck his wedge to 2 feet from the hole. He battled through the entire round, eventually getting to -1 through 15 holes. After dropping a shot on the 4th hole (his 17th), he put himself into position to make birdie on his final hole to shoot 69. He missed his birdie putt, and when his par putt missed because of an aeration mark he was understandably furious. He ended up signing for a +1 71, a very impressive round in the conditions, but not what he had hoped for. “I was -1 through 15 and that’s when I thought that if I dropped a couple more putts and came in at -2 I might have a chance at it but I never thought that 71 would get the job done,” Nate said afterwards. Walking off the green, he said to me, “If we lose the State Title by one shot...,” referencing the short putt he had just missed.It struck me that he did not say, “If I lose the State Title by one shot...,” but was worried his missed opportunity would cost the team. He then headed into the packed clubhouse and was promptly informed that there would be a sudden death playoff. Three other players had shot 71, including Chris Francoeur of rival St. John’s Prep. Nate was the first to tee off in the playoff, and with about 200 people watching, he hit a perfect tee shot, and his approach landed just off the green. He then chipped it to a few inches and tapped in for par, watching as all three other players failed to par the hole, giving him the title. Nate was mobbed by all of us, interviewed by reporters, and awarded the trophy for the Massachusetts Division 1 High School Golf Champion. “It was surreal to take the title especially because of how it was the school’s first individual state title” Nate said. “I didn’t feel like I was playing great but my mistakes weren’t bad so I could put together a decent round and it turned out to get the job done. Congratulations to Nate on the great season and extraordinary win in the State Tournament.
GOING THE DISTANCE: CROSS COUNTRY WINS BACK TO BACK CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS The BC High Cross Country team was undefeated in the Catholic Conference, winning both the regular season and the Conference Championship Meet for the second year in a row. In the Conference Championship the Eagles took ten of the top fifteen places. Co-captain Joe Stover ’17, who led the Eagles throughout the season and posted a 5K PR of 16:20, finished second in the conference meet with fellow senior Jack Flavin outrunning the competition for third. David Nagle ’18 finished 6th, with Joe Resca ’17, Trevor Hu ’18, Liam McDonough ’17, Keenan Byrne ’17, cocaptain Alex Richards ’17, Nick Fein ’18 and Nick Sommer ’17 taking places nine through 15. Team depth was a hallmark of the squad, with eight runners having personal bests under 17:30 and 14 under 18:00 for a 5K. Showing his talents went beyond Franklin Park, Senior Nick Sommer represented the Catholic Conference in receiving the MIAA community service award.
Front Row (L to R): Nico Coloma-Cook ’17, Keenan Byrne ’17, Ian McLaughlin ’17, Joe Stover ’17, Alex Richards ’17, George Bailey ’17 and Gerard Frasca ’17. Middle Row: Joe Resca ’17, Jack Flavin ’17, Aidan Dale ’17, Liam McDonough ’17, Nick Sommer ’17. Back Row: Coach Bonner, Coach Kroeger, Nick Fein ’18, Andrew Golden ’17, Aidan Largey ’17, William Cole-French ’19, David Nagle ’18, Trevor Hu ’18, Marcus Lespasio ’19, Coach Kirby.
Bill Kemeza was presented jersey number 34, chosen for his years of service to BC High.
KEMEZA HONORED AT THANKSGIVING GAME For the first time in 11 years, Catholic Memorial beat BC High on Thanksgiving Day, sending the pumpkin trophy to Baker Street until next November. Prior to the game, fans witnessed a tribute to the seniors and their parents along with a special honoree before kick-off. President Bill Kemeza, his wife Maureen, sons Will and Brendan and grandchildren Liam and Kai were asked to midfield where Kemeza was presented with a football jersey with his name on it. “On behalf of the football team, parents, alumni and the athletics department, we want you to know how important your leadership has been to our school for the past 14 years,” Athletic Director and Football Coach Jon Bartlett ’87 told the packed crowd of Viola stadium. “It is an honor to have you celebrate this game with us and toss the coin for possession.”
FROZEN FENWAY BC High was honored to have received an invitation to participate in the Capitol One Frozen Fenway 2017. The Eagles faced off against their cross town rival Catholic Memorial on Monday, January 9. The game was the first in a series of high school competitions to be played as Frozen Fenway returned to “America’s Ballpark” after a two-year hiatus. “This was a great opportunity for not only our hockey team, but our entire school community. Fenway Park is one of the most historic venues in all of sports. Playing a high school hockey game against Catholic Memorial on that stage, it just doesn’t get any better. I want to thank the Boston Red Sox for making this possible for our players and families,” said Hockey Coach John Flaherty ’88.
BC High Today 19
Alumni News Notes The 30s Having served all his priestly life of 66 years in Jamaica, W.I. Rev. Louis L. Grenier, SJ ‘36 now resides at the Jesuit Campion Health Center, in Weston, MA. He is currently the oldest Jesuit in the North East Province and the second longest serving Jesuit in the USA.
The oldest living alumnus of BC High, Thomas Robinson ’26, recently passed to eternal life. He would have been 109 years old in January of 2017. He taught for 42 years in the Watertown School system and would tell anyone that would listen that teaching brought him such joy in his life. Pictured with his son Tom ’56 for his interview in the BC High Today magazine, Winter 2013.
The 40s
The 50s Rev. Gerard McLaughlin, SJ ‘43 recently celebrated 70 years in the Society of Jesus. He, along with brother Jesuits celebrating significant milestones, were feted at a gathering in September at BC High. Pictured with Father McLaughlin is Dick Gill ‘58, one of his students from the mid-50s. Rev. Francis J. Ryan, SJ, ’43 celebrated sixty years in the priesthood this year.
Rev. Joseph Bennett, SJ ‘45 was this year’s honoree at the BC High Thanksgiving Day Mass. Fr. Bennett moved onto his next assignment after Christmas and was honored for his life of service and selfless humility. One to never seek the limelight, Fr. Bennett’s devotion to the Jesuits has spanned more than seven decades and has included teaching religion, English and Math, not only here in the United States, but in Baghdad College in Iraq. In 1969 he was one of the Jesuits that was expelled from the country. After a moving tribute, one of the many honors was a recently named Vespoli by the BC High Rowing team. Rev. William D. Ibach, SJ, ’46 celebrated seventy years in the Society of Jesus this year. Bob Schiffman ’46 and wife Catherine were surprised by their family on August 17. On that day, MATS, Inc., the company Bob and Catherine founded back in 1971, opened a new headquarters
20 BC High Today
in Stoughton, MA. Their sons, John ’78, Paul ’84 and Richard, the current owners, dedicated the new building in their parents’ names. The photo shows (l to r) Bob ’46 , John ’78 and Catherine Schiffman in front of the new headquarters. Robert Tracy ‘46 gave eight two hour lectures on the poetry of Seamus Heaney in the Winter 2016 term of the Fromm Institute for Lifelong Learning, which meets at the (Jesuit) University of San Francisco. In March 2016 he was the St. Patrick’s Day banquet speaker at the San Francisco Irish Literary and Historical Society. In April 2016 he participated in a symposium about the 1916 Easter Rising at the University of California, Berkeley, where he is Emeritus Professor of English and of Celtic Studies.
Francis McCauley ‘48 is the former Mayor of Quincy and one of the longest serving Class Agents. He recently visited BC High for lunch and a tour with Director of Alumni Relations, Matt Curran ‘89, P’22.
Several alumni from the ’60s and ’70s visited with their BC High Track coach, Rev. Larry Corcoran, SJ ’50 at the Campion Center. Front row Left to right are: Dave Calnan ’70, Rev. Corcoran ’50, James Dempsey ’69; 2nd row, left to right are: Charlie Chaisson ’70, Mike Levins ’69, Tom Minton ’69, Gary Lyons ’69, John Quirk ’69. 3rd row: John Desmond ’70. Rev. David Gill, SJ, ‘52 celebrated sixty years in the Society of Jesus this year. Rev. Kenneth J. Hughes, SJ, ’52 celebrated fifty years in the priesthood this year.
Jack Leonard and Bill Bulger, both ’52, enjoyed a recent breakfast with Mayor Marty Walsh. Rev. Denis R. Como, SJ, ’53 celebrated fifty years in the priesthood this year. The class of 1956 recently got together for lunch. Jack McNealy helped orga-
nize the lunch. Included in this photo are Kevin Crowley, Peter Fallon, Jim Dolan, Billy Jackson, Alan McLean, Craig Dolan, Jim Reilly, David Fay and Jack. Tom Kelley and Brian Frawley left before the picture was taken. Dick Gill ’58 and his wife, Kathy, visited their granddaughter, Kate Reynolds BC’17, while she was in Madrid during her semester abroad. Rev. Vincent Albano, SOLT ‘59 was in town from Rome recently to visit with family including his brother Felix ‘64 and friends.
The 60s
Members of the class of 1961 came back to Morrissey Boulevard for a luncheon to celebrate 55 years since graduation. The group enjoyed a meal together, heard from a current student and enjoyed a tour after lunch. Marty Kane ‘63 collaborated with Paul Christian P ‘93, ‘94 to publish South Boston on Parade, the definitive history of South Boston’s Evacuation Day/Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. They trace the parade’s raucous and storied history from 1901 to the present with hundreds of photographs and news
clippings marking how the parade has changed from a march commemorating George Washington’s first military victory, to a procession celebrating Irish heritage and the Patron Saint of Ireland, and more recently to a day of general good cheer. Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter Walter “Robby” Robinson ‘63 of The Boston Globe was chosen as the Joyce S. Ahern Summer Speaker for the Literacy Volunteers of Washington County. Brian F. Sullivan ‘63 was recently honored by the Massachusetts National Guard as a recipient of the Medal of Valor. The Massachusetts National Guard has recognized only eight Guardsmen with the Medal of Valor for gallantry. Sullivan, a retired Lieutenant Colonel, was a Captain when he helped rescue a trucker from a burning 18-wheeler in 1977. Additionally, LTC Sullivan was the keynote speaker for the town of Plymouth’s Veterans Day ceremony welcoming home its Vietnam Veterans after some 50 years. Each boots-on-the-ground Vietnam Veteran received a special challenge coin in recognition of their service during the Vietnam War. LTC Sullivan was also the guest speaker at Plymouth North High School’s Veterans Day assemblies on November 10th, as well as for the Pine Hills veterans group of Plymouth on November 4th.
include flying (airline transport pilot, jet type rating), scuba diving, reading and sailing. Rev. Edward J. Vodoklys, SJ, ’68 celebrated twenty five years in the priesthood this year. John Shea ‘69 has been selected by his peers as the best lawyer in Environmental Law and Environmental Litigation.
The 70s Frank Arcaro ‘71 directed the play Private Lives at Theater Works in New Milford, CT. Private Lives is a classic, sophisticated comedy by playwright Noel Coward. Classmate Jerry Pallotta attended the production during the opening weeks.
Children’s author Jerry Pallotta ‘71 completed his cross country bike trip in early August as he touched his front wheel into the surf at Peggotty Beach in Scituate. Jerry started his trip with his front wheel in the Pacific in Washington five summers ago. He’s been biking eastward, 2 to 3 weeks per summer for the last five years, some-
times with companions, sometimes solo, and providing a humorous travelogue to friends and family along the way by email. Despite the recent loss of his loving wife Linda to a long battle with cancer, Jerry was determined to complete his cross-country ride, and was able to dip his wheel into the surf at Peggotty, where he grew up, and the site of a number of the childrens’ books he has authored. Jerry lives in Boston’s Seaport District and has sold over 20 million childrens’ books and is a well known speaker at elementary schools across the country, encouraging kids to “read a zillion books!” Charles Pattavina MD, FACEP ‘71 is Medical Director and Chief of Emergency Medicine at St. Joseph Healthcare in Bangor, Maine. He was installed as President of the Maine Medical Association on September 10, 2016. Prior to joining St. Joseph Healthcare, Dr. Pattavina worked for more than 20 years in emergency medicine at Brown University, Providence RI, including ten years as director and chief of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the Miriam Hospital, a teaching affiliate of Brown. He has served on the national board of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). In 2010, Dr. Pattavina was the singular recipient of the ACEP’s James D. Mills Award for Outstanding Contributions to Emergency Medicine. George Driscoll ‘73 retired in June from his position at the Massachusetts School Building Authoritiy where he had been a member of the legal staff. In addition to travel, hiking and
The class of 1967 gathered for their annual Christmas luncheon. At the center of the front row is a chair that is traditionally left empty, in memory of the many classmates who have passed onto eternal life.
playing in an adult hockey league, George continues to work, part time, at the Massachusetts Joint Labor Management Committee. Pictured with George at his retirement celebration are former MSBA colleaguees, Dick Gill ‘58 and Steve Marsters ‘02. Rev. John Hanwell, SJ, ‘74, Socius of the Jesuits’ USA Northeast Province, celebrated the 25th anniversary of his ordination this year. Robert Caputo ‘77 recently joined the Bulfinch Group wealth management team in Needham, Bob has been a wealth management professional for years, mostly with BankAmerica and its predecessor Fleet Financial. An Acton resident for more than 17 years, Bob enjoys spending time with his wife Lisa and their 2 children. Bob is also passionate about giving back to his community, spending time as an Instructor for the Citizens Schools teaching financial literacy to middle school students in underprivileged areas of Boston, as well as fundraising for the National Brain Tumor Society.
Steve Hughes ‘73 was awarded the Cardinal Cushing Medal for Excellence in Service to Humanity from the Missionary Society of St. James the Apotle on October 16, 2016. Steve was recognized for his commitment to advancing the mission of Boston College High School and his founding of the McElroy Scholars Program. Established in 2001, the McElroy Scholars Program* identifies incoming freshmen who might be less resourced than the majority of our students, live in a home where English is not the primary spoken language, or have been educated in an under performing environment prior to attending BC High. Three days a week the scholars report to school forty minutes before the rest of the student body to attend class. They also attend school for five weeks during the summer to prepare them for the academic rigors at BC High. Through the years, more than 90% of the McElroy Scholars have graduated from BC High.
Fred Gibbons ‘67 is currently a consulting professor at Stanford University Graduate School of Electrical Engineering. He holds a BS and MS degree in EE/CS from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He is the recipient of alumnus of the year award from University of Michigan and 20th Century American Leader award from Harvard Business School. He is on the board of several Silicon Valley companies and continues to participate in the incubation process of startup companies. He is also a recognized California Plein Air painter, a French expression which means “in the open air,” and is particularly used to describe the act of painting outdoors. Other avocations
*See page 28 to read how the McElroy Scholars program has been renamed after beloved math teacher Mary Madden RIP.
BC High Today 21
Alumni News Notes Michael Lewis ‘79 has published his second book, Battle for the Knotty List, the sequel to his first book, The Great Pirate Christmas Battle. The books, published by Pelican, are available online as well as at Barnes & Noble bookstores and independent bookstores nationwide.
The 80s Chuck Hurd ‘80 completed his 24th one and a half mile Sharkfest Swim from Alcatraz to San Francisco Aquatic Park near historic Fisherman’s Wharf. Brian Concannon ‘81, Director of the Institute for Justice and Democracy in Haiti, recently received at least a modicum of satisfaction with the acknowledgement from the Secretary General of the United Nations of its role in introducing cholera to Haiti – a public health disaster that has claimed at least 10,000 lives and possibly several times that. That acknowledgement is something human rights lawyers, activists, and Haitian citizens have been seeking for years. Mike Brennan ‘85 began the 20162017 school year as the new President of Cristo Rey, Boston. Life has been very busy for Jim Norton ’86, P’21,’22. In addition to his recent appointment to the BC High Board of Trustees, he has joined the staff of magazine publisher Condé Nast as chief business officer and president of revenue. Michael Dennehy ’87 is the new administrator for the town of Milton, MA. Garrett Bradley ‘88 has retired from public office by stepping down as state representative for the Third Plymouth District, a post he had held for the past 16 years. Garrett will return to private practice.
The 90s The Eliot Spitzer-backed financial data service Tip Ranks indicates that Christopher Glynn ‘90 is the topranked analyst on Wall Street.
HBO’s documentary Marathon: The Patriots Day Bombing. The documentary was designed to chronicle the journey of those greatly affected as they make the first steps on the road to recovery.
David Barton ’08 has been named the new varsity boys’ lacrosse coach at Falmouth High School. David played at the University of Vermont.
Robyn Hegerich P’22, Jack ’22, Rick Kaplan GP’22, Sam and Greg Hegerich ’92, P’22
Tim Schulte ‘08 married Catherine Ramsey on November 12, 2016 in Nashville, TN. The ceremony was at St. Geroge’s Episcopal Church with the reception at Richland Country Club.
returned to campus to talk to the group about Commercial Banking and his role as a market president.
Kristo Kondakci ‘09 conducted the “Messiah” holiday concert in the North End this past Christmas season. In his first foray into the political arena, Bill Driscoll ‘01 scored an impressive victory in the race for State Representative from the 7th Norfolk District (Milton and Randolph).
The lifelong bonds of brotherhood shared by our alumni transcend not only class years, but branches of military. Major Jude Verge ‘97 taking a moment to meet with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford, Jr. ‘73 in Afghanistan. Adam Eskin ‘99, CEO of Dig Inn, a fast-casual restaurant, which specializes in grain and salad bowls, opened its first location in 2011 in New York City. The New York-based chain has grown to include 12 restaurants, with three more scheduled to open there before the end of the year. This summer, the first Boston location opened on Boylston Street with two more locations planned in the future. Conor Yunits ‘99 has joined Solomon, McCown and Company, a Boston based public relations firm. Conor will serve as Vice President.
The 2000s Douglas Rogers ‘00 is the Co-Founder of @PrettyInstant and was nominated as one of the finalists at BostonFest’s Coolest Companies. The company specializes in email marketing, software development and graphic design.
Greg Hegerich ‘92 had an all-in-thefamily day for the last BC High Business Breakfast. His father-in-law, Rick Kaplan GP’22 spoke to more than 100 guests about his four decades in the media.
Tim Bulman ’01 and Chris Mearn ‘01 spoke to students at the BC High Business Club about starting a company and the real estate industry. Chris and Tim founded District Real Estate Advisors.
The BC High Business Club has hosted several alumni for their speaker series, Richard MacDonald ’93 recently
Marathon bombing survivor Patrick Downes ‘01 is an intregal part of
22 BC High Today
and the Special Olympics to raise funds toward their common goal of a better tomorrow. Tim’s team just raised more than $10,000 for the Special Olympics and had the opportunity to play with the athletes at the Boston Garden earlier this month.
For the 6th year, Team Vannoni, coordinated by Dan Vannoni ‘01, participated in the New England Parkinson’s Ride to benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation. The team numbered 13 riders spread across the 50 and 10 mile rides in southern Maine. Dan has also kept very busy volunteering his expertise to enhancing the technological capabilities of his local parish. Myles Herbert ‘05 recently presented at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology 100K Entrepreneurship Competition. Students are allowed to enter the competition by uploading a 90 second video to pitch their idea. Myles was selected as a finalist to pitch again live to the panel and audience at MIT. Tim Smith’s ‘07, who works for Genzyme, recently partnered with the charitable organization, Bio-Ball, to benefit the Special Olympics. BioBall organizes basketball games with Massachusetts Bio-Tech companies
The 2010s Fans of singer and song writer Alec MacGillivray ’11 were able to see him perform at this year’s Marshfield Fair. David Joyce ’12 has returned to his alma mater to teach Spanish in the high school.
Jimmy Moynahan ‘12, graduated from Washington and Lee University in May 2016 with a B.A. in American History and Classics. Jimmy has started his career in education working in college counseling and admissions at Western Reserve Academy in Hudson, Ohio. Jimmy is also coaching football,
Joe Maher ‘03 married Ashley Goodrich on September 24, 2016 at the Saphire Estate in Sharon, MA. Fellow BC High alumni John Lydon ‘03 and Mark Lenehan ‘03 were present.
Patrick Kramer ‘15 is a strong two way forward on the Merrimack College Hockey team. Pat played junior hockey for a year after graduating from BC High and before matriculating at Merrimack. The hockey coach at Merrimack, Mark Dennehy, is also a BC High alumnus, class of ‘86.
Scott Gosnell ’15, along with his brothers Jake ’17 and Joey ’17, hosted the second annual ALS One flag football game to raise awareness and funds for ALS. This year members of the BC High and Notre Dame Academy teams were joined by Xaverian Brothers High School. basketball, and lacrosse. Jimmy joins fellow BC High alumni Dan Morrissey ‘84, Dean of Admission and Financial Aid at WRA, and Tom Barry ‘76, a varsity girls’ basketball coach who announces the home football games for the Pioneers. The three gentlemen posed for a photo at a Reserve football game in September.
John Landers ‘13 was named First team All-Ivy league and one of the top 50 forwards in the division by the Goff Rugby report. John currently plays for Brown University.
Ryan Sweeney ’15 was recognized by the Boston Police Department for his fund raising efforts for a friend’s father. The “Dot Pot” street hockey tournament raised nearly $10,000 for BPD Officer Michael Baker.
Ryan Sweeney ’15 receiving his award
Isaiah Miranda ‘16, a standout middle linebacker on the football team while at BC High, has made the transition to
the team at Boston College as a walk on. The high school scholar athlete – a member of BC High’s National Honor Society – is enrolled in BC’s Carroll School of Management. Isaiah’s proud dad, Nelson, also a BC High alumnus, class of ‘92, is the school’s Dean of Students.
Goff Rugby named Chris Coyne ’13 one of the top 50 forwards in his division. Chris currently plays for Sacred Heart University.
Matt Luongo ‘13 is currently a senior at Harvard University where he studies earth science and environmental engineering. During his spare time, he DJ’s for the WHRB radio station.
Staying connected off the slopes, alumni members of the ski team came together in the North End of Boston for dinner. Pictured here are Cornelius Flanagan ‘13, Colin Quinn ‘13, John Marquardt ‘14, Peter Sugar ‘15, Kyle Hubner ‘15 and Liam Quinn ‘16. Paul Howard ‘13 returned to Triumvirate Environmental this past summer as an intern.
Steve DeForge ’14 and fellow alumni held their annual Need to Lead Golf Tournament that funds a scholarship at BC High benefitting a current student.
On December 5, eleven current students of Latin and Greek attended the annual Latin Christmas Carols celebration at Brown University along with faculty members Mr. Penarubia and Mr. Aumiller. The program has been run since the 1940s and involves Brown professors reading scenes from the Nativity in Latin, Greek, and Sanskrit. Attendees then sing carols in Latin in response to the readings. The students dined at a traditional Greek restaurant and met with alumni at Brown, Liam Walsh ’13 and Jack O’Donnell ‘16. The Classics Department looks forward to this event each year as a way to usher in the holiday season! L to R Bottom: Joseph Leydon ’17, Michael O’Donovan ’17, Ryan McIntyre ’17. L to R Standing: Steven LeGere ’17, Nicholas Sommer ’17, Matt Caron ’17, Aidan Roy ’17, Ryan Caron ’17, Evo Fearnley ’17, Aidan Largey ’17 and Gaetano Ragusa ’17.
Top Ways to Stay Connected with BC High Norbert Kong ‘13 interned with the Office for Institutional Advancement this past summer. Norbert is currently in his senior year at St. Peters University and joined the BC High alumni office on the road on a recent trip to New York City. Pictured with fellow alumni Allen McLeod ’10, Sean Nickley ’10, Charlie Blackington ’15 and Kevin Gens ’13.
Serving as the Boston College men’s Soccer team statistician and scout, Alex Fairchild ’14 visited with the freshman BC High soccer team. Goff Rugby named Noah Hopkins ‘15 one of the top 50 forwards in his division. Noah currently plays for Boston College.
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BC High Today 23
Faculty and Staff Notes Travis Bain is teaching physics and has an undergraduate degree in physics from Arizona State University, and a PhD in physics from The University of Toronto. His background is in experimental particle physics and he spent five years conducting research on the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland. Elizabeth Corsetti is teaching Arrupe math. Mrs. Corsetti has undergraduate degrees in math and education from Villanova University as well as a Master’s degree from Boston College. She spent seven years at Saint Columbkille Partnership School in Brighton where she taught math, religion, was the middle school team leader, and led clubs for robotics, computer coding, and running. Christopher DeVido is teaching science and religion in the Arrupe Division. Mr. DeVido has a degree in biology from the University of Maryland. He comes to BC High after teaching middle school science at Malvern Prep, an all-boys Catholic school outside of Philadelphia. My Doan has joined the Admission Office as the associate director of marketing. She has an undergraduate degree from the College of the Holy Cross and received her Master’s from Tufts University. She spent the last seven years working in career services at The Fletcher School, where she managed marketing outreach and employer relations. Jennifer Ehalt is an associate director in the Admission Office. Ms. Ehalt received her undergraduate degree in management and marketing from Bentley University and for the past ten years worked in their undergraduate Admission Office. During her time at Bentley she managed the Admission Visitor Center, was a regional leader for the west coast leading the application review process. Ruth Evee P’18,’22 takes over as the Director of Equity and Inclusion for BC High. Although new to the position, Ms. Evee has been with BC High since 2014 in the Finance Office. Prior to her work at BC High she was the Dean of Students at Randolph High School and spent 10 years as a classroom teacher at Brockton High School. Ms. Evee will bring her strong mentoring background and passion
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for working with students to fulfill the mission of being a school that develops compassionate and caring young men.
last two years at Stratton Mountain School in Vermont where she taught French and was the dorm head for the boys’ dorm.
Gadisa Goso joins the Arrupe Division as the new Dean of Students. Mr. Goso has an undergraduate degree in international relations from Stonehill College and previously worked at the Nativity Preparatory School, an all-boys Jesuit middle school located in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston. While at Nativity Prep, Mr. Goso served as an AmeriCorps volunteer teacher for two years, and then went on to serve as Director of Admissions, High School Placement Coordinator, and Director of Graduate Support. He is also an alumnus of Nativity Prep. Mr. Goso brings a variety of experiences, including teaching, coaching, and mentoring middle school boys, which will be put to good use in the Arrupe Division.
Joan Perrault joins the guidance staff after a thirty year career at Notre Dame Academy in Hingham, where she served as director of guidance and academic programming. She earned her undergraduate degree in English at the College of the Holy Cross and a Master’s degree in student personnel administration from Indiana University. Joan is the founder of the South Shore Catholic Guidance Counselors Group and is on the Admission Board for Sacred Heart University.
Keren Greene is teaching seventh grade English. Ms. Greene has a degree in English from SUNY Binghamton and a Master’s degree from Columbia University. Ms. Greene taught both middle and high school English in New York prior to moving to Boston. Nick Kline is teaching high school math. He graduated from Le Moyne College where he also was a member of the lacrosse team, winning two National Championships. In his senior year he helped lead the Dolphins to their greatest season in Le Moyne lacrosse history, achieving an undefeated record of 20-0. Jennifer Manning is teaching religious education in the high school. Mrs. Manning has undergraduate degrees in theology and psychology from Boston College as well as a Master’s degree from Boston College and a Master of Arts in religion from Yale Divinity School. Allison McCourt is teaching eighth grade English. She has an English degree from Fairfield University and has worked at Cohasset High School for the past two years. In addition to her passion for literature, Ms. McCourt has coached field hockey, basketball and tennis. Shannon Muscatello is teaching French in the high school. Ms. Muscatello has an undergraduate degree in French and Psychology from Middlebury College as well as a Master’s degree in French pedagogy and linguistics from the Middlebury College immersive language schools program. She spent the
Jillian Pieciak is teaching high school biology. Ms. Pieciak holds an undergraduate degree in biology from Elon University and a Master’s degree in education from Boston College. She formerly taught at Milton High School, and also spent time conducting immunology research at Tuft’s Veterinary School. Joining the information technology department is Darren Sanon, a new graduate from Year Up, a one-year careerdevelopment program comprised of college-level courses, professional training, and a six-month professional internship in Information Technology. He started at BC High after his internship at AstraZeneca NeuroScience in Cambridge, MA and is looking to continue to build upon his professional and technical skills as a young IT professional. Joining the guidance department is Eddie Simmons. Mr. Simmons is a graduate of Rockhurst High School, a Jesuit school in Kansas City. He came to Boston to do his undergraduate studies at Boston College, where he also worked for eight years in the campus ministry department. After getting his MEd in school counseling, Mr. Simmons worked at Watertown High School and then at Chelsea High School. Gabriella Vannoni is teaching chemistry and coaching sailing in the high school. Ms. Vannoni has an undergraduate degree in biology and educational studies from Bates College. Her previous teaching experience includes the Kent School in Kent, CT and The Rivers School in Weston, where she was the curriculum coordinator for their integrated biology and chemistry curriculum, coached JV girls’ soccer and basketball as well as being a member of their Emergency Task Force.
Rob Velasquez is the new assistant director in the Admission Office. Mr. Velasquez has an undergraduate degree in Fine Arts from Endicott College as well as a Master’s degree in Education from Tufts University. He spent the past ten years as a college football coach and recruiting coordinator at Tufts University and Bentley University. In addition to the admission office Mr. Velasquez is an assistant coach for the football team.
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NEW ARRIVALS! A. Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement Colleen Carter, husband John Carter and big brother Jack welcomed Nora Grace into the family on August 2.
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B. Science teacher Maggie Ruddy, her husband Eddie Crane, and big brother Finn welcomed Olivia Grace Crane into the family August 29. C. Henry Hayes Paré, son of Greg and Guidance Counselor Heidi Hayes Paré, was born on July 3, 2016 weighing 8 lbs,12 oz.
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D. Arrupe Division science teacher John Colavincenzo and his family welcomed Nathaniel William into the family on October 4.
A New Year and a New Website After 10 months of development and collaboration from departments across campus, we are excited to announce our newly redesigned, mobile-friendly website at www.bchigh.edu. The new site features a bold, modern design, with enhanced visual content, seamless social media integration and ease of use. In addition to the redesign, we’ve refreshed our logo and extended our color palette. The last major redesign of the BC High website was in 2012. Over time, mobile technology has rapidly evolved, and it’s critical that we maintain a positive web presence to adapt with the increasing number of mobile users. Keeping Marketing in Mind. For prospective families, a website is a critical component in the admission search process—so we teamed up with two agencies to tackle the redesign: Kor, for the website development and design; and Libretto, for the rebranding and messaging component. Both agencies met with members from our community to identify what makes us unique, the “Why BC High?”, and how the website should better reflect our mission and core values. A Better Mobile Experience. The site is fully mobile responsive, meaning it automatically resizes webpages for all
screen sizes. This allows users to comfortably navigate the site no matter what device, browser or platform they choose. Making a Bold Statement. Telling the stories from our community is a powerful marketing tool, and that’s why we’ve swapped our traditional banner photos for quotes. This unique homepage feature sets us apart from other private schools, and highlights the voices from our students, faculty, parents & alumni who proudly share what it means to be part of a loving community. Social Media Integration. The new site seamlessly integrates social media into the navigation, allowing visitors to instantly engage across our social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, and others. Enhanced Navigation. Quickly navigate the site using a dynamic mega-menu that expands to give visitors an intuitive, consolidated navigation, making it easy to find content. We invite you to visit bchigh.edu and take a look around! The website will continue to be improved and updated, with continual stories, photos and videos from our community, as well as an expansion of features.
With the launch of the new BC High website, alumni can stay updated about events and activities through the site, and stay connected with fellow BC High grads through the Evertrue app. Visit the App Store or Google Play Store to download it today!
BC High Today 25
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Mass of the Holy Spirit and Welcome Back Parent Coffee • September 9, 2016 at BC High On Friday, September 9, BC High ushered in the new school year with the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit. This all-school liturgy blessed and welcomed the newest members of our community: class of 2022, class of 2020, transfer students, faculty and staff. Some special guests were in attendance, with more than 140 parents and grandparents joining Mass after the welcome coffee hour.
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A. Jennie and Alfonso De Vito GP’20 and Lisa De Vito P’20
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B Anton Kim P’22, Michael Doyle P’22, Pamela Masters DeSimone P’20 and Mary Doyle P’22 C. Parent Leadership Associates Maggie Begley P’18, ‘20, ‘22, Katie Norton P’21, ‘22, Joan Nunes P’15, ‘21 and Robin Bigley P’18, ‘20
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150th Anniversary Campaign Closing Dinner • October 29, 2016 at BC High To celebrate the closing of the 150th Anniversary Campaign, which raised more than $77 million, 250 donors attended a dinner on October 29, 2016. The dinner was held in Cadigan gym which made the night even more special, as the gym was constructed as part of the Campaign with a leadership gift from Pat Cadigan, class of 1952.
F. Trustee Associate Jack Geishecker ’55, P’91 and Brenda Geishecker P’91
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G. Trustee Associate Robert J. Galibois, II Esq. ‘88, P’20, ‘22, Nikki Galibois P’20, ’22 and Director of Alumni Relations Matt Curran ’89, P’22 H. Tamara MacDonald and Trustee Associate Rick MacDonald ’93 I. President Bill Kemeza and Chairman of the Board of Trustees John McQuillan, Jr. ’83 J. Trustee Associate Charlie Flint ’73, Trustee Emeritus J. Barry Driscoll ‘48, GP’06,’18,’18, ’22 and Trustee Associate Joe Donahue ’74 K. Dr. Thomas Kenney ’55, GP’13, ’19, ’20, ’20 and Mary Kenney GP’13, ’19, ’20, ’20
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BC High Athletic Hall of Fame 2016 • November 22, 2016 at BC High The Athletic Hall of Fame honors legendary BC High athletes and teams, as well as individuals who have supported the school’s athletics program. In addition, the Paul J. Hunter ‘53 Man for Others Award is given annually to a person who shows leadership in the community, church, and his profession, while supporting BC High’s academic and athletic excellence.
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L. Members of the 1975 swim team M. Honoree Brian Durant ’01 N. Director of Individual Gifts & Estate Planning Dan Kenslea ’71, Trustee and 2016 honoree Paul Donato ’95 and Athletic Director Jon Bartlett ’87 O. Honoree Mike Ryan ’99 and Assistant Athletic Director Joe McCabe P. Mike Cotter, recipient of the James Cotter ’55 Courage Award, Rick Johnson ’87 and Agnes Cotter
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Business Breakfast Speaker • December 2, 2016 at BC High The popular Business Breakfast returned to campus and featured News Journalist and Executive Producer, Rick Kaplan GP ’22. Kaplan delighted attendees with stories from his more than 40 year career that spanned CBS, NBC, CNN, MSNBC and HBO, interviewing historical figures such as Ronald Reagan, Fidel Castro, Saddam Hussein and many more.
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T Q. John Manning ’71 and Joseph Manning R. Patrick Jennings ’17, Stephen Oxner ’17, Speaker Rick Kaplan GP’22 and Ted Carnes ’17 S. Vanessa Carnes P’17, Ted Carnes ’17 and Tim Carnes ’86, P’17 T. Sanita D’Souza P’17 and Mark Kelley ’65 U. Speaker Rick Kaplan GP’22
BC High Today 27
IN MEMORIAM Remembering Mary Madden Beloved retired math teacher Mary Madden passed to eternal life on August 8. Mary was one of the first female teachers at BC High, a true pioneer, embracing the necessary hard work and tough love that teachers often mix together to educate their students. Mary’s time at BC High spanned almost four decades and in the fall of 2001, BC High introduced the McElroy Scholars Program in an effort to provide at-risk students with models of success and the extra tools needed to excel academically, which, it was hoped, would in turn instill confidence and present opportunities that may have seemed impossible before their time at BC High.
could teach all levels of math to all levels of students, but she was always partial to those students who struggled. She never gave them a free pass, but she did whatever it took to get them to be competent in mathematics. She did it with a firm insistence on hard work and belief in their ability. Hundreds, perhaps thousands of young men owe Mary a great debt for not only getting them though high school algebra, but for teaching them the life lessons of hard work and a belief in oneself.” In 2012, Mary was honored with both The Shields Medal of Honor and the Paul J. Hunter ‘53 “Man for Others” award for her lifelong commitment to the entire BC High community. To memorialize Mary and her lifelong dedication and commitment to BC High, the administration renamed the McElroy Scholars program to the Madden Scholars in a ceremony after her remembrance Mass on November 9. Her sisters and brother were overcome with joy for Mary.
It came as no surprise at the time that Mary Madden was the first in line to volunteer. Close to retirement, she took on this commitment with the same fervor that she had brought to her teaching career, putting her heart and soul and much of her time, in school and out, into the program. She was a proud coach of the McElroy Scholars, who year after year continued to achieve at levels far beyond their expectations. Her commitment didn’t end on her retirement from the classroom. She worked in the Admission Office welcoming future alumni into the school and continued her dedication to BC High volunteering in the Advancement Office. Principal Steve Hughes ‘73 P’98 best sums up Mary’s contributions to BC High, “Mary Madden was simply the best classroom teacher at BC High. She
Robert Madden, Principal Steve Hughes ’73, Anne Fancelli P’02, Dorothy Dunford and Virginia Mullen.
IN MEMORIAM ALUMNI Thomas D. Robinson ‘26 Father of Tom ‘57 and greatgrandfather of Richard ‘22 Msgr. Paul McManus ‘33 Dr. Robert D. Blute ‘39 Edward J. McEnroe ‘39 William P. Noonan ‘40 Raymond C. Southwick ‘42 Henry McGrath ‘43 Malcolm MacKinnon ‘44 Edward Casey ‘46 Joseph LaBelle ‘46 Victor A. McInnis ‘46 Robert P. Norton ‘46 Richard Shellenbach ‘46 Eugene R. Capuano Esq. ‘48 Joseph F.X. Donovan PhD ‘48 John E. Erwin ‘49 Rev. Joseph I. Martin ‘49 Francis O’Sullivan ‘49’ Roger E. Perfetti ‘49 Michael Carpinella Jr ‘50 Rev. John Fallon ‘50 Richard DiBona ‘51 Dr. F. Russell Sullivan ‘51 William M. Hughes ‘52
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John McDonnell ‘52 Raymond Waldron ‘52 Robert Berube ‘53 James McCusker ‘53 Rev. Paul A. Messer SJ ‘53 Louis A. Ricciardelli ‘53 Paul Kussman ’54 David J. Breen ‘55 Herbert A. Peterson ‘55 James J. Hayes ‘56 Father of Jim ‘87; Brother of John ‘62 John S. Bythrow ‘57 James J. MacKenzie PhD ‘57 Walter Dale ‘58 Peter Feeney ‘58 Paul F. McDevitt ‘59 James P. Mullen ‘59 John A. Fox ‘62 Joseph Recomendes ‘62 Dennis Ash ‘64 Father of Brian ‘88 William J. Power ‘64 Stephen H. Baldi ‘65 Willam G. DeFranzo ‘65 Charlie Houton ‘67 George P. Knasas ‘ 70 Brother of Al ‘69 and Tony ‘72
Charles Arienti Jr. ‘73 Father of Kenneth ‘01 and Timothy ‘02 Jeremiah Toomey ‘83 Kevin Cadigan ‘84 Edward J. King ‘91 Ronald D. Hennessy Jr. ‘09 Michael J. Goulding ‘12 Son of Richard BC High Trustee Associate; Brother of Rick ‘04 and Douglas ‘07
Daniel Corrigan Father of James ’11 and Brendan ’16 James S. DiPerri Father of Rev. Jim DiPerri ‘80 Mary Donius Wife of Kevin ‘80; Mother of Jack ‘16 and Michael ‘18 Robert Donovan Father of Rob ‘89, Brendan ‘98 and Brian ‘00 Helen Dunn RELATIVES AND FRIENDS Mother of Kevin ‘70 and Margaret Flaherty Brian ‘73 Mother of Michael ‘87 and Mary Judith T. Fahey John ‘88; Grandmother of Wife of Bill ‘64 Michael ‘16 and Jack ‘19 Kevin J. Gosnell Mary C. Bisognano Father of Scott ‘15, Joey ‘17 Mother of John ‘84 and Jake ‘17 Mary Frances (Plas) Bumiller Cele Griffin Mother of Donald ‘73 and Sister of Bob ‘67 Mark ’76 Albert (Bert) F. Hanwell Winkie Casey Father of Rev Jack Hanwell, SJ Sister of George ‘66 ‘74, Neil ‘76 and Kevin ‘82 Philip Lee Clark Kenneth Kerr Father of Phil ‘04 and Colin ‘07 Father of Brian ‘88 and Mary Conway Scott ‘84 Sister of Rev. Doc Conway ‘55
Paula Kingston Daughter of Paul ‘53; Mother of Tom ‘10 and Conor ‘13 Gerard Lane Father of Gerard Lane ‘84 Mary Madden Retired BC High faculty member Emma L. Mahoney Mother of Larry ‘73 Maria Meehan Mother of Leo ‘71 Franics Monahan Father of Jude ‘86 Arthur T. Murphy Father of Thomas ‘71, Arthur ‘72, Bob ‘75 and Bill ‘79 Carol Ann (Myers) Cartwright Mother of Walter ‘99 Rev. Larry O’Toole, SJ Former BC High Faculty Timothy O’Connor Father of Noel ‘92 (RIP), Brian ‘93, Tim ‘06 and Kevin ‘08 Linda M. Pallotta Wife of Jerry ‘71; Mother of Neil ‘01 and Eric ‘03’
Barbara Roper Mother of George ‘83 and Sean ‘85 Patricia R. Shea Wife of Bill ‘39 RIP John J. Tobin Father of Dan ‘74 Joy Topping Daughter of Dick ‘67 Ellen B. Young Sister of Thomas ‘62 and John ‘63; aunt of James Darigan ‘03 Joyce Sheehan Mother of Ted ‘85 Members of BC High’s Jesuit Community will offer your intentions and prayer requests to the Lord during Masses in Loyola Chapel. Please visit www.bchigh.edu/ intentions to submit requests.
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CREATING MEN AND WOMEN FOR OTHERS By Bill Kemeza
About seven years ago, one of my dearest relatives became a US citizen. The
swearing-in was scheduled for a September morning at Faneuil Hall so I thought I could run down to watch the ceremony and still get back in time for my afternoon appointments at school. I figured it would take an hour. Was I surprised - it took three hours! The checking in and filling out of forms took up most of the time. At one point the officials announced that they would be locking the doors to assure that everyone- once identified – would be in place. With that, I was committed to stay. But the extra time allowed me to wander around before they called us together. One of the things that I saw – and had a chance to read – was the Preamble to the Constitution of the Commonwealth, written by John Adams. I remember feeling moved by its direct eloquence and wisdom. Unlike the Federal Preamble, it is more substantive. It begins with the premise that the Constitution has to ensure the rights of individuals and to preserve the common good. It recognizes that this is a delicate balance. It states that the Constitution must allow for the people to not only make laws, but also to modify, appeal and interpret laws in order to stay true to this mission to preserve the balance of the common good and rights of the individual. It assumes that we will and we must continue to “re-imagine” what this means in each generation. So then it was time to go back upstairs to the balcony where all of the visitors and families were seated to watch and look down on these new citizens-to-be. As they stood to take their oath, I literally found it as breathtaking as any landscape found in a National Park. Gathered below were folks of every possible shade and shape; wearing dashikis to burkas. As the role was being called, one could recognize names from different parts of Asia and Europe. We watched uniformed American soldiers from Africa and Central America acknowledge their presence. Here they were, gathered beneath a marble statue of John Adams. I wondered what he would have thought of this. I think he would have been moved and very happy. Because here in these new citizens was the fresh idealism, the fresh creativity, new imagination that will write the new laws, modify the old ones and re-interpret what our laws mean in order to preserve our individual rights and our common good. This diverse citizenry is exactly what we need in order to stay true to the original mission of our Constitution. So what has this to do with BC High? Here back at school, we have a mission. Sure we want our students to flourish, to go to good colleges. But that is not all – in fact any good preparatory school wants those things. Our mission is to help form leaders in all walks of life. The early Jesuits would say leaders are those who can help cure souls and reform cities. Today, Jesuit education calls these leaders “Men and Women for Others.” So here is where diversity is important. Our school, like our Commonwealth and Nation, needs the fresh idealism, creativity and perspectives of a diverse population to help us re-imagine and recreate an education that is meaningful and effective in the emerging global culture.
“It states that the Constitution must allow for the people to not only make laws, but also to modify, appeal and interpret laws in order to stay true to this mission to preserve the balance of the common good and rights of the individual.” – Bill Kemeza
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