The cover of the 2026 Cardinal Connection highlights key moments from across the Bishop Ireton community. From school spirit and athletics to the Cultural Fair, Student Council activities, and daily life, each image represents a different aspect of the student experience. Together, they reflect the daily connections that define the Cardinal community.
Mr. Jack Murray - Vice Chair
Mrs. Jane Pisano - Secretary
Mrs. Michaelen Kastantin Barsness SMA ‘87
Mr. Blake Bynum ’08
Ms. Kathryn Doherty
Deacon Malcolm D’Souza ’84
Mr. Scott Fedder ‘76
Mrs. HJ Fleming
Rev. Christopher Christensen , Pastor, St. Rita’s
Mrs. Nkem Konkwo
Mrs. Katherine McSween ’03
Mr. Richard Mondloch ’77
Mrs. Meghan Roberts
Mrs. Mary Kate Sparrow
Rev. Joseph Moschetto, Chaplain, Ex-Officio
Dr. Timothy Guy, Principal, Ex-Officio
Mrs. Kathleen McNutt SMA ’87, Head of School, Board Executive Officer
Dr. Joseph E. Vorbach , Superintendent of Schools, Diocese of Arlington
SENIOR ADMINISTRATION
Mrs. Kathleen McNutt , Head of School
Dr. Timothy Guy , Principal
Rev. Joseph Moschetto , Chaplain and Campus Ministry Director
Mr. Dwayne Bryant , Athletics Director
Mr. Chris Gilliland , Advancement Director
Mrs. Nicole Mahon , Admissions Director
Mr. Joshua Goldman , Communications and Marketing Director
Mr. Greg Zabicki , Finance Director
Mrs. Tania Slaton , Assistant Principal, Dean of Academics
Mrs. Jeanne Bliss , Assistant Principal, Dean of Faculty
Mr. Timothy Dodds , Assistant Principal for Student Life
Ms. Gabrielle Baniqued , Diversity Director
Dr. Agnieszka Snyder , Special Services Director
Mr. Mike Gibson, Technology Director
Mr. Christopher O’Hara, Counseling Director
Mr. Joshua Goldman , Editor and Head Writer
Mrs. Kaitlyn Gerke , Creative Director
Contributing writers and photographers: Kathleen McNutt, Tim Guy, Chris Gilliland, Ryan Fannon, Victor O’Neill’s Studios CARDINAL
Cardinal Connection is published once a year by the Office of the Head of School for alumni, students, families and friends of Bishop Ireton High School and St. Mary’s Academy. For comments and suggestions, or to request a copy of Cardinal Connection, please send an email to advancement@bishopireton.org.
In the Catholic tradition and in the spirit of St. Francis de Sales, Bishop Ireton High School is a college preparatory high school that promotes spiritual, intellectual, creative, social and physical development.
As a Salesian community of learning and service, Bishop Ireton High School prepares and inspires students to Advance Always with a
focus to
and
Letter from the Head of School
Hope is not wishful thinking. It is the steady confidence that God is at work— often quietly, sometimes unexpectedly—guiding us toward a future filled with purpose.
Here at Bishop Ireton High School, hope is visible every day. It starts on Cambridge Road (navigating Duke Street traffic!) as our families and staff make the choice to engage in a Christ-centered school environment. It lives in our classrooms where curiosity is encouraged by our outstanding teachers and truth is pursued with both intellect and heart. It shines on our athletic fields and stages where discipline, skill, teamwork and creativity take root. It is present in our sacred chapel, where prayer grounds us and reminds us that we are never alone in our striving. Most powerfully, hope is embodied in our students - young people who are learning the truth and discerning not only what to think, but how to live. Our Cardinals ask hard questions, serve generously, and look beyond themselves toward the needs of others. In a world that can often feel uncertain, their optimism and hopeful energy give me great confidence in tomorrow! Each year, Bishop Ireton is guided by a quote from St. Francis de Sales or St. Jane de Chantal, which becomes the
theme for that school year. Fittingly, this year’s quote from our patron, St. Francis, speaks to the power of hope in our Lord: “Be at peace. Do not look forward in fear to the changes of life; rather look to them with full hope as they arise.”
As a proud St. Mary’s Academy graduate and Bishop Ireton’s 11th leader, I feel incredibly blessed to be part of Bishop Ireton’s legacy, and I am excited to be connected to its future. My Cardinal connections start at home through my own family graduates: my husband, Geoff (BI ’87), our five grown children and three sons-in-law, Kaitlyn and Stephen (’14), Megan and Tim (’16), Camryn (’18), Morgan and Sam (’19) and Connor (’22). With two Cardinal grandsons and two on the way, our nest continues to expand! We recognize that our blessings are grounded in the beautiful gifts of faith, family and community, which are certainly rooted in hope and in what we have received from Bishop Ireton and Catholic education in the Diocese of Arlington.
Through my daily work, I have the privilege of connecting with Bishop
“Be at peace. Do not look forward in fear to the changes of life; rather look to them with full hope as they arise.”
- St. Francis de Sales
Ireton and SMA alumni locally and across the country, and I experience daily the success and excellence of our graduates. We work hard to ensure that this excellence continues into the future, providing our current students with the best in instructional strategies, classroom engagement, technology tools, state-of-the-art facilities, extra-curricular experiences, service opportunities and loved traditions, as well as a special sense of community focused on the hope of Christ. At the same time, we are so grateful for the alumni, families, faculty and benefactors whose faith and commitment bring hope to fruition, allowing us to enhance our academic programs, strengthen our Catholic identity, and expand opportunities that prepare students for lives of meaning and leadership. The combination of philanthropy and engagement have allowed our Cardinals to soar.
As a community, we choose hope. We choose to believe that education rooted in Christ transforms lives. We choose to invest in young people who will shape the world with wisdom, compassion and courage. And we choose to move forward together, grateful for Bishop Ireton’s 61-year history and confident in where we are called to go. With full enrollment and thriving programs, it’s hard not to be hopeful! May this issue of Cardinal Connection provide you with the opportunity to reflect upon your time at Bishop Ireton High School and St. Mary’s Academy and the people who made an impact on your life while you were here. I look forward to our connection in the year ahead as we Advance Always with hope.
Live Jesus,
Kathleen F. McNutt Head of School
I Letter from the Principal
t is a great time to be a Cardinal. I count myself blessed to serve as principal of Bishop Ireton and to be part of a community rooted in faith, scholarship and the relationships that we proudly call Cardinal Connections. The care and support of our students and families, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the continued engagement of our alumni and friends strengthen our mission as a Catholic, college-preparatory high school in the Diocese of Arlington.
At Bishop Ireton, we are called to Advance Always. That commitment challenges us to continually reflect upon and strengthen the academic opportunities we provide for our students as we remain firmly grounded in our Catholic identity. In that spirit, we continue to review and enhance our curriculum each year, expanding access to challenging academic opportunities while ensuring that students are supported and positioned for success.
One area of growth stems from our objective to expand student access to Advanced Placement coursework. Beginning next year, students can enroll in AP Physics I, providing the opportunity to earn AP credit in physics for seniors taking it for the first time, while also serving as an additional pathway to AP Physics C. Likewise, our Computer Science department is expanding its offerings through the addition of AP Cybersecurity. This course builds upon our current cybersecurity offerings and reflects our commitment to preparing students for
fields that are increasingly vital in our modern world.
We are also pleased to introduce two new interdisciplinary semester courses: Humanities I: The Classical Imagination and Humanities II: The Birth of Modernity. These courses strengthen our longstanding commitment to the Humanities while responding to growing interest in classical modes of inquiry. While Bishop Ireton is not a classical education school, our Humanities program has long included classical literature, ancient history, Latin studies, Socratic dialogue and close reading of original texts within a faith-infused framework. They also provide meaningful opportunities for students interested in completing the Distinguished Scholars Program with a focus in the Humanities.
Additional enhancements across departments reflect the continued vitality of our academic program. New offerings such as Introduction to Robotic Design support our efforts to expand both the study of robotics and participation in interscholastic robotics competition, while courses such as Screenwriting expand opportunities for artistic expression and Adaptive Physical Education reflects our commitment to meeting the needs of students in our Options program.
As a Catholic school inspired by the Salesian tradition, our mission extends beyond academic preparation. Through the sacraments, retreats, service opportunities and daily community
life, we strive to help students grow intellectually, spiritually and personally. We challenge our students to follow the words of our patron, St. Francis de Sales, to “be who you are and be that well, giving honor to the Master Craftsman whose handiwork you are.” In doing so, we encourage our students to not only achieve, but also to Live Jesus in their relationships and service to others.
Thank you for your continued support of Bishop Ireton High School and for the many ways you strengthen our Cardinal community. The bonds formed here endure long after graduation and continue to inspire generations of Cardinals to come.
Dr. Timothy Guy Principal
Day of Giving:
Bishop Ireton High School April 29 - April 30, 2026
Bishop Ireton High School is excited to announce our 36-hour Day of Giving, “Tradition. Tomorrow. Together.” running from April 29 to April 30, 2026. This event offers an incredible opportunity for our community—alumni, parents, parents of alumni, students, faculty, and friends—to come together and make an impact on our school community by continuing to support our Annual Fund.
The Day of Giving is a dedicated period of time where our Bishop Ireton community can contribute directly to the continued growth and excellence of our school. Whether you’re a past graduate, a current family or a supporter of Catholic education, your donation will help ensure that future generations of Cardinals have the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Why Participate?
By contributing, you’re supporting the many facets of life at Bishop Ireton, including:
Student Financial Aid:
Campus Enhancements:
Academic & Extracurricular Programs:
Providing financial assistance to ensure that deserving students have access to a transformative Catholic education.
Upgrading our facilities and resources to provide students with the best learning environment possible.
Matching Gifts & Incentives
Throughout the 36-hour event, your donations will go further! Generous matching gifts from alumni and community members will double your impact, making your contribution even more meaningful.
How to Get Involved
1. Donate: Visit bishopireton.org/give, and make your donation on April 29 and April 30. Every gift, no matter the size, helps us reach our goal.
2. Spread the Word: Share the event on social media and encourage friends and family to participate. The more people who get involved, the bigger our impact!
Supporting programs that foster growth, leadership, and success in academics, athletics, the arts, and more.
Mark Your Calendars and SUPPORTBISHOPIRETON!
the family
Ifyou’ve driven around Alexandria or Northern Virginia–or perhaps in Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Washington, DC, Delaware or North Carolina–in the past 45 years, chances are, you’ve seen a Keany Produce & Gourmet truck on the road. What you might not know is that in addition to starting the now-huge regional produce supplier in 1978, the family behind the company has deep ties to Bishop Ireton and Cambridge Road.
Before they ever came to Virginia, Patrick and Marianne Keany grew up together in Phoenix, Arizona. They attended grade school and high school together before falling in love and getting married. Devout Catholics, Patrick and Marianne quickly grew their family. When a job opportunity came about in Washington, DC in 1962, the family and their children
moved east, initially thinking their stay in the Nation’s Capital would only be for a year. What was meant to be a short time in their new home turned into much more than that. Patrick, Marianne and their children settled on the east coast.
While the family lived in Washington, DC, the eldest Keany child, Shenny, continued to deal with severe medical issues that she had from birth and was unable to attend school. She would ultimately pass away due to those medical complications at the age of 31. The next three eldest Keany children began high school in the District once the family made its way to DC. Jan attended Notre Dame Academy, Patrick studied at Gonzaga and Kevin went to St. John’s. In 1968, the family moved to Virginia, and the younger siblings were presented with a new opportunity for their grade school and high school education. Danny,
Chris, Ted and Missy all enrolled at St. Mary’s Catholic Grade School on Green Street (now known as the Basilica School of St. Mary) where they completed their primary and middle school education. When it was time for high school, there was really only one choice for the boys and one for their sister: the still relatively new Bishop Ireton and the well-established St. Mary’s Academy.
Danny was the first of the younger siblings to start at Bishop Ireton in 1970. “The cost of BI in the early 70s was just $350 to $400 per student,” recalls Danny. “My parents believed Alexandria was the best place to continue our Catholic education. [The importance of Catholic education] was instilled in us since we were little kids.”
While at Bishop Ireton, Danny was involved in a number of different
activities. He fondly remembers playing freshmen football, tennis and basketball. He and his younger brothers also attended BI at a unique time for the school. In the 1970s, the school had moved away from traditional classes. Instead, it turned its focus to a flexible academic schedule and then into modular scheduling. “It emphasized a lot of self-discipline to be successful,” said Danny of the nontraditional approach to learning. Danny graduated from Bishop Ireton in 1974 and celebrated his 50th high school reunion in 2024. “I still have a group of 12 best friends who’ve remained close for more than 55 years since we first met as freshmen at BI in 1970,” said Danny. “We still see each other often.”
Danny’s younger brother, Chris, began at Bishop Ireton in the fall of 1971. While at Bishop Ireton, he was also very involved. He remembers the outstanding education he received and the spiritual enrichment the school provided him. Chris also recalls that while modular learning was challenging for him, it is also a big part of how he learned time management and his passion for American history. Chris graduated in 1975 and celebrated his 50th high school reunion in 2025, just a year after his older brother. “I cemented lifelong friendships with guys I went to BI with,” recalls Chris. “It was an incredible weekend seeing some classmates for the first time in 50 years.” Chris and his wife Robin continue to stay incredibly connected to and supportive of the school to this day.
The youngest brother of the Keany family, Ted, started at Bishop Ireton in 1973. For the 19731974 school year, all three younger brothers were on Cambridge Road together. Ted vividly remembers driving to school with his older brothers his freshman year. Beginning with the 74-75 school year, Bishop Ireton shifted to an “education by appointment” approach for the next five years. This style of learning was predicated on students making their own appointments with faculty and learning at their own pace. Like his brothers before him, the unusual approach to learning was challenging. But Ted attributes some of his success in high school to his homeroom teacher beginning his sophomore year, Father Grant. “He was a disciplinarian and helped push me,” remembers Ted. “[Thanks to his encouragement] I finished strong academically in my final semester to graduate on time.”
In 1974, the youngest Keany, Missy, began her time at St. Mary’s Academy. She attended school on Russell Road for four years and graduated in 1978. From there, she attended James Madison University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education. Her ties to the BI/SMA community continued right out of college. Her first job was working at Bishop Ireton as a resource room teacher with a fellow SMA ‘78 graduate Mary Keller Goodyear. In 1984, Missy married a BI Class of 1977 alum, Dana Rolander, who was an
Marianne and Pat Keany
Marianne with Keany children
outstanding basketball player while at Bishop Ireton. The two currently reside in Arizona and are the proud parents of three daughters and two sons.
Following their time at Bishop Ireton and St. Mary’s Academy, the Keany family remained close in large part due to the establishment of Keany Produce. In 1978, Kevin Keany founded the company in the Florida Market of Washington, DC with a single van and a single customer. Soon after, the company began to expand and by 1982, patriarch Patrick Keany, Danny (BI ‘74), Chris (BI ‘75) and Ted (BI ‘77) all worked for Keany Produce. In the early days with just a handful of employees, it was an all hands on deck operation. Trucks were loaded at night and produce was delivered throughout the day.
The company continued to grow for nearly the next 40 years, expanding in both the size of their facilities and the routes to which they delivered. In 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic struck the world, Keany Produce & Gourmet–it was renamed in 2017 to better suit the products it distributed–struggled just like most companies. Business dropped by 80% at the outset of the global pandemic and the company quickly pivoted to find ways to serve its customers and help their employees keep their jobs. “We created boxes of fruit, vegetables and dairy products that our customers could order online and then pick up at various locations,” said Ted. “This included locations like Good Shepherd Parish where our family had been parishioners since 1968. Father Tom Ferguson (BI ‘84) was a huge help in facilitating this. We even used the Bishop Ireton parking lot thanks to the generosity of BI Head of School Kathleen McNutt for a few days as well. We were so grateful to be able to provide a service to our community at such an uncertain time.”
Today, Keany Produce & Gourmet continues to prosper with close to 1100 employees, 450 trucks and business in eight different states throughout the USA. The company still employs numerous Keany family members as well as several Bishop Ireton graduates. Chris retired from his role as a VP at Keany Produce & Gourmet in 2022, the same year that Ted (BI ‘77) stepped into the role of CEO. Danny continues in his role as a longtime VP at the company.
The Keany family remains close with Bishop Ireton to this day. Members of the family have contributed to the school in big ways, both financially and with their time. One area that the family always bonded with BI was Bishop Ireton basketball. Chris remembers varsity boys 1968-1969 basketball Head Coach and BI Athletic Hall of Famer Tom O’Keefe as having a big impact on him. “Coach O’Keefe lived in Fort Hunt and we played a lot of neighborhood basketball with him and his sons,” said Chris. “He played college basketball at Georgetown and won a Catholic State basketball championship at BI in 1969. He was a big influence on my love of basketball.”
The Keany parents, Patrick and Marianne, attended games throughout the 70s when their sons were student-athletes. They could often be found in Godley Gym from the start of the freshmen games through the end of the varsity games. The family’s love of BI basketball continued long after Danny, Chris and Ted’s graduation from the school. Danny remembers a BI boys varsity victory in 2013 during the WCAC quarterfinals against a Gonzaga team that had gone undefeated in conference play that season. “We had one great postgame dinner in DC after that Cardinal victory.”
Today, you can still spot the Keanys often in the stands at home and away games supporting both the BI boys
and girls basketball programs as well as many other Cardinal sports.
The Keany family still has ties to Arizona in both the Phoenix and Tucson areas and they travel back often to see their cousins. In 2021, the Keany family matriarch, Marianne, passed away. Yet her love and the love of the Keany family patriarch, Patrick, still resonates with their kids today. “Over the years I’ve come to understand what a huge sacrifice it was for our parents to send their kids to Catholic schools,” says Chris. “Education was so important to our parents, and they generously offered to even help send their grandchildren to college. We are privileged to contribute to such an incredible endeavor as Catholic education for our family and current and future students of Bishop Ireton High School.”
The legacy of the Keany family and Bishop Ireton has continued well beyond the graduates of the 1970s. Ted (BI ‘77) and his wife Julie had a daughter, Jenna, who graduated in 2008. She was a basketball player and rowed, which helped her make lifelong friends. Jenna just welcomed her first child Quinn on March 13 of this year. Chris’ daughter, Shannon, graduated from Bishop Ireton in 2014. She came to Cambridge Road after attending St. Louis Catholic School where she got to know current BI Head of School Kathleen McNutt. “I was so proud of [Shannon] when she was accepted at BI,” said Chris. “I was that much prouder when she attended college and graduated from there. Her work ethic, honed at BI, made that possible.” In 2024, Shannon and her husband welcomed a baby boy, Silas Theodore Harding. Perhaps the deep legacy and support of the Keany family, which started on Cambridge Road in the 1970s, will continue with him or his cousin Quinn. Future BI Class of 2042 or 2044? We’ll just have to see but the nest will be open for them!
1. Chris Keany ‘75 and Dana Rolander ‘77
2. Dana Rolander ‘77
3. Jenna Keany ‘08
4. Missy Keany Rolander - SMA ‘78 and Bishop Ireton employee
5. Shannon Keany Harding ‘14 and Chris Keany ‘75
6. Silas Theodore Harding
E ADDING MORE CARDINALS TO THE Alumni Nest
arly in the morning on May 30, 2025, parents, students, friends, family and guests entered the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC for Bishop Ireton’s annual commencement exercises. This group of stellar seniors began school during the pandemic in 2021 and persevered through four years of challenges to receive their diplomas in the holy space.
As has become tradition, Baccalaureate was held on May 29, 2025 at St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Springfield. The entirety of the Class of 2025 and their families had the opportunity to worship together during Mass and then celebrate the faculty after Mass. Father Noah Morey was awarded the Outstanding Leadership in Christian Service Award and the Salesian Medal of Honor for his contributions to the BI community, his humble nature and his powerful profession of faith. Father Noah served as the BI Chaplain from 2019-2025 before being assigned to his current role as Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Arlington.
During graduation, attendees heard from the Most Reverend Michael Burbidge,
Bishop of the Diocese of Arlington, Head of School Kathleen McNutt, Principal Dr. Tim Guy, Chaplain Father Noah Morey, Salutatory speaker Sofia Meller and Valedictory speaker Kathleen Ferguson. The Peter L. Ireton awards for general academic excellence were presented to Annaliese Ludvigson (who earned the highest grade point average in the Class of 2025) and Charlie Kelly (who earned the second highest grade point average in the Class of 2025). The Salesian Medal of Honor, which is considered the highest honor bestowed on any student by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, was
presented to Michael Bobrowski and Yunika Suwandhi. The Diocese of Arlington St. Thomas More-St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award was presented to Kathleen Ferguson.
As the attendees departed the Basilica with the rest of a beautiful day ahead of them, so too did the newest graduates depart from that holy place with the rest of their lives ahead of them. But from that moment forward, they had a permanent place in the Cardinal’s nest.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
To see a 2.5 minute recap of the 2025 graduation, scan the QR code below or visit www.youtube.com/bishopiretonhighschool.
2025 class of
The students from the Class of 2025 have graduated from Bishop Ireton and are now attending some of the finest colleges and universities around the country.
Amelia Adams
Antonio Adorno
James Alwine
Anthony Amedome
Amirah Anderson
Hutson Anguita
Edna Aron
Eldana Aron
Gabriella Lynn Asesor
Mykhailo Aslanian
Samuel Barker
Lucia Bell
Sebastian Bliss
Michael Bobrowski
Lucy Boehlert
Brianna Bokino
Brennan Boyle
Cecily Boyle
Nyla Brooks
Vincent Brown
Joseph Bucca
John Burke
Sean Burke
William Burns
Andrew Callas
Joshua Candia
Daniel Canty
Lauren Capistran
Lucero Carcamo
Jackson Carnemark
Catherine Carow
Gwendolyn Caslow
Sophia Cassidy
Audrick Castillo
Lucas Castro
Kiera Cates
Nadejda Cebotari
Alexa Charuhas
Emily Christensen
William Clark
Maria Cleary
Sophia Clendenin
Helena Coleman
Aidan Conner
Auburn University
Rochester Institute of Technology
Gap Year
Virginia Tech
Boston College
Virginia Commonwealth University
University of Virginia
University of Virginia
Virginia Commonwealth University
Northern Virginia Community College
Bucknell University
Christopher Newport University
Susquehanna University
Villanova University
James Madison University
Towson University
Hobart and William Smith Colleges
College of William & Mary
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
James Madison University
James Madison University
High Point University
College of William & Mary
Christopher Newport University
Clemson University
Salamanca Club de Fútbol Academy
University of New Hampshire at Manchester
James Madison University
Christopher Newport University
University of Alabama
Savannah College of Art and Design
Northern Virginia Community College
DeSales University
James Madison University
Virginia Commonwealth University
College of Charleston
University of Pittsburgh
Northeastern University
University of Oklahoma
Virginia Tech
University of Tennessee
University of Kentucky
Sacred Heart University
Concord University
Wesley Cooper
Adam Corley
Quinn Coughlin
Olivia Cruz
Sariel Angelo Cruz
Emmett Cummings
John Danaher
Megan Danaher
Alexandra Daniel
Nicholas Danshaw
Pearl Danthis
Jamal Davis
Matthew Raphael De Guzman
Karenna DeCourcey
Jennifer Dee
Karissa Dinh
Sofia Dooley
Cullen Duff
Emmanuel Ehumah
Lindsey Evans
Katherine Favaro
Kathleen Ferguson
Eleanor Fitzgerald
Zoe Flynn
Aidan Fogarty
Conor Fogarty
Therese Forrer
Jose Franco
Donovan Furey
Marcello Gabalda
Nora Garland
Amanda Gelfound
Sean G. Gilliam
John Paul Giza
Shriya Gnanasekaran
Camilo Gomez
Katherine Gomez
Trevor Gorski
Aiden Gray
Capriana Graziano
Christopher Green
Caelan Griffith
Carlos Guevara
Cooper Guzik
Theresa Hagans
Ethan Hanik
Charlize Hansford
Kate Hare
Kendra Harris
Christian Harry
John Hays
Catherine Hicks
Nora Hixson
Wesley Hodges
Mia Inzerillo
Alexandros Ioannou
Juniata College
Northern Virginia Community College
Butler University
High Point University
Wingate University
Christopher Newport University
Christopher Newport University
Christopher Newport University
Temple University
Rochester Institute of Technology
Virginia Commonwealth University
University of Maryland
George Mason University
Miami University
University of Mary Washington
Virginia Commonwealth University
Florida International University
University of Virginia’s College at Wise
Christopher Newport University
Northwestern University
Virginia Tech
Catholic University
American University of Paris
Virginia Tech
University of Kentucky
University of Connecticut
Clemson University
DePaul University
Ohio State University
Hampden-Sydney College
College of William & Mary
American University
Shenandoah University
Northern Virginia Community College
James Madison University
Universidad de Navarra
DeSales University
Pennsylvania State University
Bridgton Academy
University of Mary Washington
Louisiana State University
Fashion Institute of Technology
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Tech
University of Pittsburgh
West Virginia University
Virginia Commonwealth University
Temple University
University of Denver
Fairfield University
University of Rhode Island
James Madison University
Virginia Tech
Ohio State University
University of Tennessee
Virginia Tech
Chloe Jackson
Amari James
Abigail Jiron
Rex Johnston
Davis Jones
Joshua Jones
Lucy Jones
Charleston Kelly
Gabrielle Knight
Chelsey Ko
Sofia Kortanek
Braden Lanier
Anna Katherine Lass
Madison Alexandra Lazar
Emma Lentini
Henry Leopold
Brandon Louis
Annaliese Ludvigson
Andrew Luff
Gwenith Lutz
Bryan Lynch
Harrison Lynn
Andrew Madden
Elisa Manalo
Jaylen Manning
Amelia Martinez
Cayleigh Marzluff
Maximilian Mathews
Cadence McCarthy
Maeve McCarthy
Iona McCluskey
Blythe McDaniel
Annabella McDowell
Rory McGuire
Colin McLallen
Robert Meehan
Sofia Meller
Elizabeth Michael
Ashley Middel
Santiago Miller
Zoe Millett
Ian Monteith
Benjamin Moore
Natalie Mueller
Brady Mull
Joseph Edward Myers
Paul Nguyen
Ella Nick
Stephen Ntambwe
Tamra Ntambwe
Elmer Ochoa
Catherine Page
Garo Partoyan
Bryce Patterson
Juan Paz
Christopher Persico
Gap Year
Saint Francis University
Saint Joseph’s University
Virginia Commonwealth University
University of Kentucky
Virginia State University
University of Central Arkansas
University of Virginia
Fordham University
University of Connecticut
Northern Virginia Community College
Virginia Wesleyan University
University of Mississippi
Catholic University of America
University of South Carolina
University of Pittsburgh
Virginia Commonwealth University
University of Notre Dame
Georgetown University
Auburn University
West Virginia University
Auburn University
The Catholic University of America
Virginia Tech
Hamilton College
Louisiana State University
University of South Carolina
Elon University
Xavier University
James Madison University
College of William & Mary
Virginia Tech
Christopher Newport University
University of Virginia
York College of Pennsylvania
James Madison University
College of William & Mary
Longwood University
University of Kentucky
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Savannah College of Art and Design
West Virginia University
University of Arizona
College of Charleston
University of Dayton
Louisiana State University
Virginia Tech
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
Long Island University
Saint Joseph’s University
Northern Virginia Community College
American University
Miami University
Virginia Tech
Northern Virginia Community College
Christopher Newport University
Sarah Petz
Wolde-Giorgis Pietros II
Julia Plunkett
Daniel Pressley
Rachael Pulice
Samantha Queen
Isabella Quinn
Kieran Radke
Tyler Richards
Madeline Roche
Robert Rosado
Aundrea Sanchez
Gemma Santucci
Delaney Scanlon
Martin Scanlon
Vincent Scheivert
Charlotte Schouten
Anna Scolese
Gwenyth Shearon
Maya Shenkut
Alessandra Siervo
Isabella Siervo
Katerina Skowronek
John Snowden
Tucker Spendley
Caitlin Patricia Stedt
Tyler Stohs
Alexa Stone
Alexandra Stuart
Greydon Stuber
Ethan Stump
Yunika Suwandhi
Kathleen Taylor
Isabella Tesfaye
Charlee Thompson
Jackson Toof, Jr.
William Tracey
Joseph Tuminaro
Alex Turcios
Joshua Underly
Colette von Schaumburg
Lillian Voorhees
Hudson Ward
Kayla Washington
Amelia Weiler
Georgia Whitehead
Anaya Wilson
Anna Wisneski
Loza-Mariam Woldesemait
Matthew Worth
Cecelia Wright
Eyob Zebro
Nardos Zekarias
University of Maryland
Miami University
University of South Carolina
Oberlin College
James Madison University
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Mississippi
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Virginia Military Institute
University of Tennessee
Ohio State University
Louisiana State University
University of Kentucky
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Pittsburgh
Long Island University
College of William & Mary
Pennsylvania State University
Pennsylvania State University
Virginia Tech
Northern Virginia Community College
Northern Virginia Community College
University of Delaware
High Point University
Pennsylvania State University
Saint Joseph’s University
Louisiana State University
University of Florida
Michigan State University
Rollins College
University of Kentucky
University of Massachusetts
Florida Atlantic University
Virginia Tech
Coker University
James Madison University
Wittenberg University
West Virginia University
University of Maryland
College of William & Mary
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
United States Coast Guard Academy
Longwood University
James Madison University
Virginia Tech
Shenandoah University
George Mason University
James Madison University
James Madison University
Auburn University
George Mason University
University of Virginia
RISING WITH SPEED
From city titles to national stages, BI Cross Country and Track & Field are surging forward.
It’s a cool evening in October 2025 and dusk is settling quickly on the campus of Episcopal High School.
More than a hundred people line both sides of the finishing meters of a five kilometer cross country course, funneling to the finish line. This last part of the last race of the day–the varsity boys–is out in the open and comes after a sharp curve from within a wooded area. Spectators stand with their phones out, ready to grab a picture or video but for the moment, there are no runners in sight. The quiet stands out as supporters from the four Alexandria city high schools wait to see which athlete would emerge first and potentially take the city title. Would it be a runner from Alexandria City High School? St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes? The host school, Episcopal? Or would it be someone from Bishop Ireton?
All of the sudden, a roar erupts from the crowd of people closest to the curve. The runner in first emerges. It’s Jason Day, Bishop Ireton Class of 2027. And there’s not a single competitor close to him. He crosses the finish line in a school record time of 15:58 to claim the Alexandria City Cross Country Championship. His win comes just a short while after Regan Schultz, BI ‘26, handily took home first place for the girls with a blistering time of 18:52.
In the end, the boys team finished in first place and the girls finished in second–a stunning day of running for the Bishop Ireton Cross Country team. But if you’ve been paying attention, it wasn’t out of the blue. It was the result of a culture and drive built in and around the program for years. If the talented runners on the team are the legs of the operation, its head coach, Bob Artman, is the heart.
Bob has been a coach for the Cross Country and Track & Field teams at Bishop Ireton for more than a decade. He first came aboard as an assistant coach under former head coach (and talented alum runner) Brad Byrnes. Really, he was following in the footsteps of his own father who was an athletic director and Bob’s cross
country coach when he was in high school outside of Chicago. When Brad stepped away three years later, Bob took over both the Cross Country team head coaching duties as well as the Track & Field head coaching duties. Not only is Bob a beloved coach, he’s also a respected member of the BI faculty.
As the school has improved in athletics in general, there’s been a trickle down effect for Cross Country and Track & Field. While there are student-athletes who focus solely on Cross Country and Track & Field, there are others who join these teams to keep up fitness in the offseason of their other sports. Either way, it’s paid off in the past few years. Last year, Drew Madden (BI ‘25), an overall exceptional athlete, had a banner year. “[He was the kind of athlete] I could put in any event and he would place,” remembers Bob. At one point last year, his high score in a pentathlon event (long jump, high jump, shot put, 60 meter hurdles and 1000 meter run) was the 7th highest score nationally. After being named Bishop Ireton Athlete of the Year last year, he now competes for Catholic University.
This year, a trio of runners have anchored the team performances.
The aforementioned junior Jason Day holds three track & field records, the fastest 5K cross country performance in school history and placed 7th overall at the 2025 WCAC Cross Country Championships and 4th overall at the 2025 VISAA Cross Country Championships. In October 2025, he was named the Alexandria Sportsman’s Club Athlete of the Month.
In 2024 as a freshman, Cate Messing (BI ‘28) had a tremendous Cross Country season. She was the Alexandria City Cross Country Champion and won the WCAC Cross Country Championship, the Catholic State Cross Championship and the VISAA Cross Country Championship. For her outstanding season, she was named to TheWashingtonPost All-Met team. Despite recovering from injury in the 2025 season, Cate still finished 3rd in
the Alexandria City Championship, 3rd in the WCAC Championship and won the Catholic State meet. She currently holds the fastest girls cross country time in the history of the school.
Last but not least of this trio of runners is Regan Schultz. She currently holds 16 school records including all distances from 400 meters to the 3200 meter run. Last Track & Field season, she won the 1600 meter run at the WCAC Championships and was named Athlete of the Meet at the prestigious Draper Invitational where more than 700 athletes were competing. This past Cross Country season, in addition to winning the Alexandria City Championship, she also finished second at the WCAC Championship and VISAA Championship. For her efforts, she was named the Alexandria Sportman’s Club Athlete of the Month in November 2025. She will run at the United States Naval Academy after she graduates from Bishop Ireton in May 2026.
Of course, these running performances are just part of the teams that have had amazing success these past few years. In the fall of 2025, both the boys and girls teams traveled to the Adidas Cross Country Championships in North Carolina and returned with two first place trophies. In addition to the first place Alexandria City finish and second place Alexandria City finish for the boys and girls teams respectively, the girls also won the Catholic State Championships and were the runnerups in the highly competitive WCAC Championship.
As the page turns to the spring season for Track & Field, the sky’s the limit for the runners and athletes at Bishop Ireton. What’s the secret to their success? Maybe it’s not so complicated after all. “The dedication that these athletes have to their craft always amazes me,” said Coach Bob. “Most of these athletes are not only great on the course [and the track] but they excel in the classroom as well. It’s a special [thing] to work with these athletes.”
BREAKING AWAY
Girls Ice Hockey Has Arrived at Bishop Ireton. It’sHeretoStay.
very few years since ice hockey started at Bishop Ireton, there would be a few girls who would join the team. They competed hard and well. Most probably didn’t think much about being on a co-ed team having grown up watching The Mighty Ducks, which featured both boys and girls on the ice in the Disney classic. More to the point, though, the reason for a co-ed team for many years was more practical. Ice hockey is a tough sport. It’s physical and requires skill in several disciplines. You not only have to skate well. You also need to be able to handle a stick and the puck while skating well. But as more young ladies showed interest, it became clear that there might be enough pieces to start an all-girls team. From that germ of an idea, a new sport was born at Bishop Ireton.
When Stephen Gerke (BI ‘14) interviewed to be the head coach for the boys ice hockey team, he was already thinking about a girls team. Before returning to BI, Stephen coached both U12 and U14 all-girls teams at the St. James. That fueled his passion to grow the game for both boys and girls. “I brought up the idea of starting a girls hockey team to [Athletic Director] Dwayne [Bryant] and [Head of School] Kathleen [McNutt], who couldn’t have been more supportive,” remembers Stephen. “It may have already been
something they were considering, but I was encouraged by how they were just as excited about it as I was.”
From there, the next step was putting the pieces in place to actually make this a reality. Stephen, Dwayne and Kathleen got to work and hired Tanner Jones to be the school’s first girls ice hockey head coach. Tanner and Stephen played ice hockey together at Virginia Tech so their rapport was a key reason why the hire made so much sense. Tanner got to work right away after he was hired in February 2025. Tanner hired Lily Espino as an assistant coach and started to recruit players. With just 8 months until the inaugural season began, the clock was ticking.
When the winter season finally came around, Tanner fielded a team of eleven athletes. “Our skill value ranges from travel players, with close to 10 years of experience, to girls who are brand new to hockey,” said Tanner. After a short window of practice, the team laced up their skates and took the ice for their very first game on November 14, 2025. Despite a loss, sophomore Addy Soto scored the first goal in program history. Just a week later on November 21, the team secured the first win in program history, defeating St. Mary’s Ryken 4-3.
“The girls have worked extremely hard this year and have really developed together as a team,” said Stephen. “As is expected with a new program, we have a smaller team roster… in spite of this, the team has seen immense improvement. We couldn’t be more proud of how far they’ve come.” Tanner echoed the sentiment saying, “Our team has drastically improved since the first game in November, as veteran players have stepped into leadership roles and new players have improved fundamentals.”
In a season of firsts, there was yet another on February 2, 2026 when the team recognized its two members of the Class of 2026 in the first senior night for girls ice hockey.
Now, with all the firsts behind them and a historic season in the books, what’s next for the program? Well, the future is bright and that’s in large part thanks to the 11 young ladies who paved the way. “These wonderful student-athletes have established a culture of positivity, passion and commitment,” said Tanner. “BI hockey looks to build upon that for years to come.”
LEADING IN
F I A T H
Meet Father Joe MoschettoBishop Ireton’s New Chaplain
After Bishop Burbidge announced that Father Noah Morey, BI’s Chaplain since 2019, would be moved to a role as the Vocations Director for the Diocese of Arlington, students, families, faculty and staff awaited the news of who would step into his shoes. In May 2025, Bishop Burbidge named Father Joseph Moschetto as BI’s newest chaplain. He came to the school after serving at St. Veronica’s parish in Chantilly. When Father Moschetto first came to Cambridge Road to see the school, he was quickly identifiable with his tall stature and gentle spirit. Now, more than six months into his new assignment, Father Moschetto is well entrenched in the Cardinal community.
Father Moschetto was born and raised in Loudoun County and is a Virginian through and through. He grew up in a close-knit family. His father worked as an accountant for the government and his mother was a teacher. He had two older sisters who he remains close to to this day. As with many families, Father Moschetto’s faith was formed in the home. “My parents were tremendous role models for me in the faith,” said Father Moschetto. “Not only did they teach me and my sisters what we believe, we saw them pray and take care of their own spiritual lives. They truly sought to model and teach us the faith.”
You might be surprised to hear that the priesthood wasn’t always top of mind for the future cleric. He recalls that as a child and teenager, despite his strong faith foundation, he didn’t want to be a priest. “Like at all,” he remembers. It was only when he was getting ready to head to college at George Mason University that he really started to consider his future. It was at that time that he received a call in prayer to “something greater.” While in school, his
faith continued to grow and mature and the desire to be a priest became stronger and stronger. After his sophomore year, he entered the seminary. Six years later, he was ordained a priest. There wasn’t perfect clarity but Father Moschetto “had a desire to follow the Lord, and the courage to do so.” That was enough and the call from God became clearer and clearer.
Outside of his ministry as a priest, Father Moschetto enjoys reading–he is currently loving Michael Sullivan’s LegendsoftheFirstEmpireseries–, exercising, painting and seeing friends and family. He loves playing sports and has a special affinity for soccer. Of exercise he says, “A few years ago, I got into CrossFit, and even started to train to become a coach. There is a joke that goes, ‘How do you know if someone does CrossFit? Don’t worry, they’ll tell you.’ So this is me fulfilling that joke. You’re welcome.” And despite the fact that he’s an adult, Father Moschetto is still learning from his parents. His mom is an artist and he’s recently begun exploring watercolors under her instruction.
After more than half a year in his role, Father Moschetto is fitting in well. He’s a constant presence at sporting events, arts productions and more. When he first started in June 2025, his first impression was one that remains today: “[The community at Bishop Ireton is] invested.” Father Moschetto says, “I find it remarkable how many alumni have stayed connected to the school, how long some families have been here, and the time that staff and faculty give to making this community thrive. To me it demonstrates the impact that Ireton as a community and as a school has had on so many.” If his first few months here are any indication, Father Moschetto’s kindness, sense of humor and verve for the Catholic faith are sure to contribute to the feeling of investment in Bishop Ireton and the Cardinal community for numerous families and alumni.
The Finishing Touches on the St. Francis de Sales Chapel
Six brand new stained glass windows will adorn the recently renovated St. Francis de Sales Chapel later in 2026.
When Bishop Burbidge dedicated the altar in the newly renovated St. Francis de Sales Chapel in March 2025, attendees in person and watching the livestream were greeted with a stunning redesign, exterior tower and pronounced roof, beautiful statues, new floors and pews and ornate painting. Despite the immense amount of newness both inside and out, there were reminders of a project still to come. Six, in fact. The original stained glass windows, which stand tall three in a row on both sides of the chapel, remained intact (albeit with a few broken sections and insulation challenges)… for now.
Those original windows will be removed and relocated in 2026. And it was all part of the original plan. Due to the massive nature of the other parts of the renovation, the changes in the windows were slotted into a second phase. It also gave time for the selection of the saints to be featured in the windows and time for the chosen artist to design something truly unique for Bishop Ireton. While the original windows are relatively abstract in design, the new windows
will be much more focused with distinctive stories to tell.
Each of the six new windows will feature three sections. The large central area of each window will display the image of a saint. The process of selecting the saints was done in consultation with the faculty & staff, input from the students and the expertise of the Salesian Leadership and Catholic Identity teams. Ultimately, the six saints chosen were: Saint Carlos Acutis, Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, Saint Pope John Paul II, Saint Joan of Arc and Saint Charles Lwanga and Companions.
Father Noah Morey, Bishop Ireton’s chaplain from 2019-2025 was heavily involved in the process of selecting the saints for display in the chapel.
“For centuries, the Catholic Church has used stained glass windows to teach the faith, inspire countless people, and bring God’s beautiful light into a given space,” said Father Noah. “By selecting saints who are role models for youth, and who represent different countries and time periods, we want to highlight
that all people, regardless of age or nationality, are called to holiness. We hope that the Bishop Ireton students, faculty, and families will see themselves in these images of the saints, thus seeking to live heroic sanctity in imitation of Christ.”
The top section of each stained glass window will feature a connection with the Diocese, Catholic education and Bishop Ireton and St. Mary’s Academy history. Each upper portion will feature one of the following: the Bishop Ireton seal, the St. Mary’s Academy seal, the Diocese of Arlington seal, an image of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (the founder of the Catholic school system in the United States), an image of St. Jane de Chantal (the other patron saint of Bishop Ireton) and an image of Saint Thomas More (patron of the Diocese of Arlington). You might be wondering why St. Francis de Sales isn’t represented here. Well, St. Francis has his own stained glass window and statue in the front entrance at the chapel’s narthex, welcoming visitors as they arrive at the sacred building bearing his name.
The bottom section of each stained glass window will reflect the six original parishes who came together to formally support and encourage the building of Bishop Ireton in the 1960s under the leadership of the Diocese of Richmond and Bishop John Russell. Those six parishes, who also served an important role in fundraising to build the high school, will each be featured on one of the six windows. Those parishes are: The Basilica of St. Mary (formerly St. Mary’s), Blessed Sacrament, St. Louis, St. Rita’s, St. Joseph’s (in Alexandria), and Our Lady of Lourdes. “Highlighting these parishes is so important to telling the story of Bishop Ireton,” said Head of School Kathleen McNutt. “Without their fervor and energy in the early 1960s, Bishop Ireton wouldn’t be the school it is today. We’re grateful for the effort these parish communities put in and their continued support of our wonderful institution.”
“The countless restricted donations for individual classrooms, gym, desks, chalkboards, classrooms, library, doors, windows and more, as well as the many special collections during Mass at each of these founding
parishes made it possible for my classmates and I to enter Bishop Ireton High School in the fall of 1964,” said Marty Marinoff (BI ‘68). “These parishes are embedded in the rich history of our school.”
As for what will become of the previous windows, that plan is coming to fruition soon. Once removed from their current location, the original stained glass will be prepared for display in the lower lot entrance area nearest to the stairwell that heads from the academic wing down to the chapel. We look forward to preserving decades of history through those windows and providing a reminder of that spiritual foundation as students, staff and visitors head into the sacred space.
The new window designs are being finalized in order to move onto the production line, and the specialized window frames are being measured and prepared. Beyer Studios, located in Philadelphia–the same specialty manufacturer that designed and produced the stained glass in the chapel’s narthex and above the altar — is the company completing the project.
“The visual beauty of our sacred spaces, and specifically stained glass, has always been intended to lead the mind and heart upwards towards God, and to teach the faithful about the life of Christ and lives of the saints,” said current Bishop Ireton Chaplain Father Joe Moschetto. “Our windows do the same. They are great touchstones and visual reminders of their lives of holiness, and inspirations to imitate their virtue in our own lives.”
Bishop Ireton High School is preparing for an exciting new phase in the continued improvements on its campus: a comprehensive renovation of the school’s exterior athletic facilities designed to enhance student skill and experience, strengthen community engagement, and support the long-standing tradition and growth of Cardinal athletics.
This project includes the full replacement and expansion of the school’s track and bleachers, an upgraded and expanded athletic turf field, new baseball batting cages and field event spaces, the addition of new concessions and exterior-facing restroom facilities, added storage and a school spirit store in the enclosed bleacher spaces. There will also be significant improvements to the stadium entrance and plaza areas surrounding the bleachers. A new stormwater drainage system and retaining walls will also be added to provide needed facility improvements both in functionality and aesthetics. Together, all of these enhancements will not only improve our athletic spaces for student athletes, they will also
create a more welcoming, functional, safe and vibrant gathering space for students, families, alumni and visitors.
“At Bishop Ireton, our commitment to educating the whole person extends beyond the classroom,” said Athletic Director Dwayne Bryant. “These improvements reflect our belief that athletics, community life and school spirit are essential parts of forming young people who lead with character, resilience and faith.”
A VISION FOR TRADITION AND TOMORROW
The new track will provide expanded training and competition opportunities for student-athletes while improving safety and accessibility. The upgraded field will continue to support
multiple sports programs and allow for use throughout the academic year, ensuring that Bishop Ireton continues to offer high-quality athletic experiences rooted in teamwork and personal growth.
Equally important are the addition of permanent concessions and exterior-facing bathrooms–enhancements that will greatly improve the game-day experiences for families and visitors alike. The redesigned plaza areas at the entrance and around the bleachers will create welcoming spaces for gathering and community connection,
reinforcing the Cardinal spirit that envelopes the Bishop Ireton campus and community.
These renovations will be more than physical improvements; they represent an investment in the future of the Cardinal community. Rooted in the school’s Salesian tradition, the project reflects a commitment to fostering environments where students can grow in confidence and skill, build friendships, and develop the habits of leadership and service that last a lifetime.
BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH SHARED SPACES
Athletic events at Bishop Ireton are moments when the entire community can come together–students, parents, alumni, and friends united in support of one another. The upgraded facilities will allow the school to host events with greater hospitality, safety and accessibility, creating an atmosphere that reflects both pride in tradition and excitement for the future. As an urban campus nestled in a suburban footprint, Bishop Ireton High School values the spaces that we use everyday, and that includes our exterior athletic
facilities. We want to ensure that they shine and enrich our Cardinal spirit.
Project design and work with architects, engineers and the City of Alexandria have been in process over the past year, and now final detail work begins. The school’s Advancement and Athletic departments look forward to sharing more about the project and asking for your help over the coming months. While some of this project has funding in hand, the full scope will need the assistance of our community through a capital campaign. Bishop Ireton supporters have made such transformational projects possible: our new academic building and interior athletic facilities renovation project and our chapel project. And thanks to such generosity, our campus is thriving. We know this external athletics update will extend our ability to thrive in all that we do.
“As we continue to Advance Always and Live Jesus, these renovated spaces will serve as places where faith, teamwork, excellence in athletics and Cardinal spirit come alive,” Head of School Kathleen McNutt shared. “We are excited about this project and the work ahead as we renew our home for athletics and community spirit.”
BWhen Bishop Ireton’s expanded campus opened in February 2020, part of the new building that replaced the Oblate House was dedicated for use by Special Services programs at Bishop Ireton. Nevermind that the actual use of those spaces would be delayed six months due to a global pandemic. The underlying fact to take away is that they were there, ready for use, when students returned to campus in August 2020. That was in large part due to an initiative from Bishop Michael Burbidge, Bishop of the Diocese of Arlington, who emphasized the need for inclusion at Diocesan schools. For him, students of all learning abilities should have access to exceptional Catholic education. And so, Bishop Ireton, led by Head of School, Kathleen McNutt, got to work with the full support of the Diocese.
program is to teach students the study skills necessary for student success.” Classes are small and teachers model critical workload management. A large number of Bishop Ireton students with varying needs utilize Student Assistant Plans (SAPs), so the need for a robust Academic Support program and team is both important and critical to student success.
Students of all learning abilities should have access to exceptional Catholic education.
Bishop Ireton began with the modification of an existing service, Academic Support. This service, which is still available to students today, is “designed for students with a history of learning challenges or deficits in organization and planning, who, with support, can succeed with college-prep curriculum. The primary role of this
The BI Special Services program was then bolstered with the creation of two new areas of support. The first, called the De Sales Program (DSP), was designed to “serve students with a diagnosed mild to moderate specific learning disability or developmental disability. Students take all core subjects in regularly scheduled classes and attend DSP in a resource classroom in place of one study hall period.” The supports from this program allow for the inclusion of students with specific neurodivergent needs to be integrated into all levels of academic instruction and immersed in the culture of the school while also accommodating and addressing their specific learning styles.
The second added program was the Options Program, which is “a special education program for students diagnosed with moderate intellectual disabilities, providing students with an individualized inclusive, student-centered Catholic education.” These students are integrated into some college-preparatory classes and also take specific classes with specialized teachers and student peer mentors to help with the transition to adulthood. While Options is a certificate program, as opposed to a diploma program, these students are fully immersed into the life and culture of the school, including extracurricular activities.
Since the official establishment of the three Special Services programs in 2019, and despite the stress of building the programs through the brunt of the Covid-19 pandemic, all three programs are currently flourishing. The Special Services team is now led by Dr. Aga Snyder who moved into the role in 2023 after the departure of J-Lynn Van Pelt, who was responsible for helping to develop the De Sales and Options Programs. Aga has led the popular and growing program for more than two and a half years and now directs a staff that has quadrupled from three educators to over 10.
“Being in the classroom and working with our students is an adventure and a blessing every day.”
- Elizabeth Subasavage
“When I think about Special Services, my focus is on how best to support students at BI while taking into consideration our school profile and its demands,” said Aga. “For all of our programs, a teacher or another professional works directly with students. I emphasize this because working with another person is powerful and far more effective than anything else we can offer.”
In addition to the three main programs in Special Services, Bishop Ireton also offers support programs that can be utilized by any student at the school. These include the Homework Center, the Math Center, the Writing Center and the Testing Center. The Special Services team is made up of over 10 talented teachers including Elizabeth Subasavage (BI ‘98), who serves as the current chair of the Special Services Department and the De Sales Program lead, roles which she has held for more than five years. “Being in the classroom and working with our students is an adventure and a blessing every day,” said Elizabeth. “I love my job because of the endless opportunities to learn. Watching students in the De Sales Program evolve over their four-year journey at Ireton is an experience unlike any other. The graduation of our ‘inaugural class’ in 2024 was bittersweet, as we formed unique bonds with those kids who helped us launch the program. There is nothing more gratifying, though, than hearing from our graduates as they continue to navigate their successes and challenges, still knowing that BI will always be a safe place to land.”
For Dr. Snyder and her team, finding new ways to improve their work has been paramount to their success. “Over the past several years, we have promoted a deeply collaborative approach to working with students and their families,” she said. “It’s powerful to bring together Special Services teachers, general education teachers, counselors, nurses and administrators with all contributing their expertise and experience. Hearing different perspectives helps us develop stronger and more effective outcomes for our students.”
Though the entire Special Services team does their best to remain in the present with the students currently enrolled in the various programs, it’s not the only focus. Perhaps just as important is preparing them for the future. “Supporting students while they are at BI is only one part of our work,” remarked Aga. “Our long-term goal is to help students learn and practice new skills so they can become as independent as possible.” Head of School Kathleen McNutt shared, “Bishop Ireton Special Services will continue to thrive because they are central to our mission to Advance Always and Live Jesus. We provide programming that serves the needs of the whole person, and thus, we serve the whole family.”
Based on the success of the program so far and the numerous students and families who have successfully made their way through the program, the team is well on their way to seeing that to fruition.
Elizabeth Subasavage, Special Services Department Chair and De Sales Program lead, congratulates Adam Corley ‘25 after graduation. Corley was part of the ‘inaguaral class’ of the De Sales Program.
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Lori Whitley has served on Cambridge Road for more than three decades. Her legacy will live on even longer.
There are a lot of smiling faces as new Cardinals set foot on Cambridge Road to start their high school journey. And one of those faces is a particularly special one. If you were a student at any point in the past 30+ years or visited campus, it’s surely one you would recognize. It’s one that emanates warmth, care and compassion and it belongs to Ms. Lori Whitley, the second longest tenured employee at Bishop Ireton.
Lori was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and was the fifth of six girls in her family. Her father worked in construction and her mother was a stay-at-home mom. It was a loving family–despite the fact that she does recall fighting for space in the bathroom with her sisters. The family remains close to this day. Though her father has passed away, Lori makes frequent trips to the Steel City to see her mom and sisters and is on a very active group text with her siblings.
While living in Pittsburgh, she was offered a position in Washington, DC with the National Association of Life Underwriters. Lori eagerly accepted the opportunity and relocated to the Nation’s Capital. After a little time working there, she was offered a position to be the Attendance Coordinator at Bishop Ireton by Pete LeFevre
“It’s wonderful seeing the students graduate and go on to their colleges and different endeavors. And it’s also great to embrace a new class of students.” - Lori Whitley
(affectionately known at Bishop Ireton as “The Colonel”). “He was no joke. He was a big guy, retired [military] but he was like a teddy bear inside,” Lori remembers.
For years, Lori diligently served in her role managing attendance at Bishop Ireton. She had just completed her Master’s degree in Human Service Counseling and an opportunity to serve as Assistant Dean of Students became available at Bishop Ireton. In 2011, at the encouragement of Tim Hamer, the principal at the time, and Laura Fannon (née Finnegan), an assistant principal at the time, she applied for and received the role of Assistant Dean of Students. She has worked in that position for the past 15 years.
For the past three plus decades that she’s worked at BI, she’s seen the school undergo a tremendous transformation. She witnessed the construction of the K-wing and Garwood Whaley Auditorium. She saw the demolition of the Oblate House and the subsequent construction and opening of the 41,000 square foot academic building. She saw the St. Francis de Sales Chapel transform inside and out just down the hall from where her office now sits. Of the history that now remains only in photographs and memories, Lori says, “It’s sad but it’s also rejuvenating to welcome something new. It was time for a new chapel and cafeteria and [the addition of] the auxiliary gym. It’s exciting to see change.”
It’s through her two important roles at BI that Lori has gotten to know so many different people on Cambridge Road. From students, to faculty members, to families and to families of former students, Lori has seen it all. “I knew I was here for a very long time when I was doing attendance and this kid–Ben Zegada (BI ‘15)–came up to me and said ‘My father (Gus Zegada, BI ‘96) told me to tell you hi!”
She’s seen thousands of students walk the hallways of Bishop Ireton and thousands walk at graduation. “It’s wonderful seeing
the students graduate and go on to their colleges and different endeavors,” said Lori. “And it’s also great to embrace a new class of students. They come in with their eagerness and excitement, ready to follow the rules—at least for a couple of months,” she jokes. “Welcoming new students never gets old.”
The 2025-2026 school year is Lori’s 34th at Bishop Ireton. She’s served under five different principals and two heads of school. She attributes the strong reputation of the school and its growing enrollment to both the firm foundation laid by the Oblates, previous administrations and the exceptional leadership of Mrs. Kathleen McNutt.
In 2022, Lori was awarded the Salesian Medal of Honor, which is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an individual at a school associated with the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. It is given to individuals who best demonstrate the traits and virtues of St. Francis de Sales. “I was genuinely surprised,” remembers Lori. “It was a moment I’ll never forget. I know the seriousness of the medal. I was tremendously honored, humbled, excited and really proud that they selected me to have that honor.”
Outside of her work, Lori loves spending time with her family–she has a son, Kenneth, who graduated from Bishop Ireton in 2001, and a daughter, Alana, both of whom are local. She enjoys tennis, football (“Go Steelers!”), walks in the park with her two dogs and kayaking in the summer. She will soon earn the title of “author” as she finalizes her children’s book, which is due to be completed in the summer of 2026.
To know Lori or to interact with her is to know kindness, humility and joy. Though her personal life, professional life and workplace might look a little different than it did when she started at Bishop Ireton in 1992, there’s one thing that hasn’t changed much. That warm face that so many have come to know and love shines as brightly as it ever did.
Q&A WITH MARY PAT SCHLICKENMAIER (SMA ‘71)
Can you tell us about your early years growing up in Alexandria, where you went to school and the experience of living overseas in Japan for 8th and 9th grade?
While I was actually born in Missouri, I moved to Alexandria when I was one and have lived here most of my life. I started in kindergarten at what we called “little St. Mary’s” on Royal Street and was there until the summer after sixth grade, when the Bishop decided to move all the children who lived south of Morningside Lane to St. Louis. I attended Saint Louis for 7th grade, and then my father was assigned to go to Okinawa. I spent eighth grade and freshman year of high school at Christ the King in Naha, where I was one of only six American students, although the school was taught in English by the Sisters of
Dr. Mary Patricia Schlickenmaier (SMA ’71) is an Alexandria native and attended both St. Mary’s School and St. Louis School before entering St. Mary’s Academy her sophomore year after two years overseas. She attended Dunbarton College of the Holy Cross and then Loyola College. She holds a Masters degree in Administration and Supervision and a Doctorate in Education. Her sons William and John graduated from Bishop Ireton in 1997 and 1998 respectively. Schlickenmaier taught at Elizabeth Seton High School for two years, at St. Mary’s School for 13 and was principal of Saint Rita’s School from 1998-2019. She currently supports student-teachers and first-year principals.
Notre Dame. When I returned after my freshman year, I was a bit anxious about entering St. Mary’s Academy, as I feared that all the friendships had already formed and it would be very difficult for me to fit in. I needn’t have worried–everyone remembered me from either St. Mary’s or St. Louis, and it was as though I had never left.
After returning from Japan, what was the transition like to St. Mary’s Academy and what were some of your fondest memories of your high school days on Russell Road?
The girls were very kind in remembering me and letting me ease back into the school’s culture. I was out of alignment on some of the required coursework, as I had attended a Catholic school in Okinawa, which followed a different
curriculum. I had taken two years of Japanese and two years of the history of Asia–I could speak some Japanese and tell you the dynasties of China–but was behind in modern foreign language and social studies. The teachers and fellow students were great about getting me caught up and it wasn’t long before I was up to speed. I was always a science and math geek and found my spot at the Academy. Since it was the late 60s and early 70s, women were still being directed into professions that were “suitable” until they married. But at the Academy I met strong, independent women who were ready to buck those trends and enter previously male-dominated professions. I had a number of amazing teachers but I will credit Sister Virginia, my Biology teacher, with inspiring me with a vision of a career in science. I ended up taking every science and math class that was
offered – I wanted to go over to Bishop Ireton to take some additional classes but the Sisters were not ready for that, yet!
The social scene at the Academy had a lot of different paths–there were sports enthusiasts, musicians, drama devotees and any other interest group you can imagine. It might be hard to believe in this day and age but we were “tracked” – there was a college prep track and a business track and the coursework was tailored to the track into which you were placed. The Catholic Faith was very present but again, it was the 60s and 70s and so there were a lot of Masses with modern music and dance, Masses outside and liturgies that were designed to engage the young women of the time. The Sisters were strict but it was clear we were loved. I do remember a constant battle over uniforms, especially skirt lengths. Our skirts had to touch the ground when we knelt. For big Masses and our Baccalaureate, we would walk down Russell Road to St. Rita’s School. That certainly came full circle for me when I served as the principal of Saint Rita’s for 21 years.
As you reflect back on your high school days at SMA, can you describe the impact the Sisters of the Holy Cross had on you? What were the shared connections between Bishop Ireton and St. Mary’s Academy?
I mentioned Sister Virginia as a genuinely transformative force in my life but there were many others. Sister Marian Daniels was the principal through much of my time there, I remember Sister Margaret Lusby who was my Latin teacher and a very memorable character. Sister Thomas Aquinas taught English and was beloved. She was a sweet and gentle soul with a tremendous knowledge of her subject matter. When I left Alexandria for Okinawa in 1966 the Sisters were in full habit. When I returned in 1968 the world had changed dramatically and the Sisters were now in modified habits which looked much more like street clothes. It was quite a shock to see their hair! But they were still
the same Sisters. They guided the young women in their care with a firm hand but still encouraged us to challenge ourselves both academically and spiritually. The connection with Bishop Ireton was mostly social at that time. Most of us dated BI boys and there were some early initiatives at joint extracurriculars.
As a young woman pursuing a career in science, the Sisters were supportive and left you with the feeling that you could do anything. When I graduated from the Academy I went to Dunbarton College in DC–also run by the Sisters of the Holy Cross–and loved every minute of my life as a pre-med major. I worked for the Chemistry department which was headed by a Sister and learned a great deal about Chemistry and life from her. The College closed at the end of my sophomore year and I transferred to Loyola College in Baltimore, continuing as a pre-med major. I have a theory that I have felt the hands of God on my shoulders multiple times turning me to a different direction than I had chosen.
After you graduated from Loyola College in 1975, you began an amazing 40+ year career in education. Where did that begin and how did it evolve over the years?
I graduated in 1975 with a major in pre-med and every intention of going to med school. I did well enough on the medical school entrance exams to be granted interviews at a number of schools but was deferred at all of them for a year. I needed a job! I went to an agency and they told me that the only thing I could do with my degree was teach. I thought, “Oh no. I don’t want to teach!” I was 21 and they placed me at Elizabeth Seton High School in Bladensburg (she wasn’t a saint yet) to teach Chemistry, Physics, Advanced Biology and Bioethics. Yikes! I had never gotten in front of a classroom before in my life and had no idea what I was doing. Yet somehow, it felt like what I was supposed to be doing. The hands of God on my shoulders again. I loved it so much and they were kind
enough to invite me back for a second year.
Probably the most dramatic example of God’s hands on my shoulders turning me in a new direction happened during the summer between those two years at Elizabeth Seton when I met the love of my life. There was no question, again, that a life with him was my proper path and we were married the following summer. God was right, as He always is, and we celebrated 48 years of marriage this past summer. I left Seton and decided to return to medicine but not to apply to medical school. I started working as a medical assistant in a pediatric practice and enjoyed the work and being back in medicine, but God had His plans and we welcomed our first son, William, in 1979 and our second son, John, in 1980. There was no question in my mind that I should stay home with them and so I did until William was in first grade and John in kindergarten at St. Mary’s (my alma mater). The house seemed so empty and I wondered what would be my next shoulder turn and it wasn’t long before I had my answer. The principal at St. Mary’s called me in October and told me that the science teacher for the middle school was leaving unexpectedly and would I be a long-term sub until they found a suitable replacement. It was such a surprise to both my boys and our carpool! I remember one of the older members of our carpool saying that they had announced that a “Mrs. Schlickenmaier” was going to take over their science classes but that couldn’t be me, could it? The long term sub stint turned into 13 years of teaching full-time middle school science and math and loving every minute of it with the full intent of staying right where I was until retirement.
That was, until there was another shoulder turn. The Diocese approached me about becoming a principal. I took a lot of time to think and pray before answering but I said yes and was accepted as the principal of Saint Rita School. I completed my master’s in Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia and the next 21 years were filled with such great joys and blessings that they seemed to fly by. As
“I AM HAPPIEST EITHER IN FRONT OF OR IN A CLASSRO OM.”
- MARY PAT SCHLICKENMAIER
one of the “daughters” of Bishop Ireton–as the founding parishes were called–we had a special relationship with BI and sent most of our students there. At BI, they flourished and grew in both their academic and spiritual lives. I retired from St. Rita’s in 2019 and have found that working with student- teachers, which I do for both George Mason University and the University of Phoenix, keeps me in the classroom and engaged in education. I mentor first year principals in the Diocese of Arlington and taught for three years at Marymount University. Four and a half years ago I started a doctoral program (as I had neither the time or the funds to do it before!) and successfully defended my dissertation at the end of October of 2025. I have joked often that it has been a vanity project but the truth is that I loved the challenges and the new opportunities to learn and hope to publish based on my research in the coming year.
As a lifelong learner, what did earning your doctorate mean to you?
My husband once said that I am happiest either in front of or in a classroom and I think that is very true. I have sought coursework and professional development my whole adult life. When I retired, the first principal I was asked to mentor in the fall of that year was a Montessori principal. While I had been exposed to the Montessori method–especially through the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd which we had built into the preschool at Saint Rita’s–I was not familiar with much of the basis for the philosophy of Montessori, so I took coursework through Loyola and earned my Montessori aide certification. Having fallen in love with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, I spent 45 hours each of the four summers from 2022-2025 earning my level one and then level two certification in the Catechesis. The coursework for my doctoral studies was very rigorous–I completed 57 credits and
a 155 page dissertation. The work was both challenging and very interesting.
What is the importance of the newly developed St. Mary’s Academy Alumnae Association Endowed Scholarship and the new leadership role you and others have taken on with the St. Mary’s Academy Alumnae Association?
When I returned to St. Mary’s as a teacher, Ann Godfrey was one of the school secretaries. Ann was a Nugent, a very well connected and generous Catholic family in Alexandria and Ann wanted to start a scholarship program for a student from St. Mary’s. That original effort, maintained and sustained by the St. Mary ‘s Academy Alumnae Association, has given an additional boost to many young scholars to assist them in attending Catholic high school. Recently, the opportunity presented itself to grow that original idea into something larger and more sustainable. The Saint Mary’s Academy Alumnae Association Endowed
Scholarship, created in collaboration with Bishop Ireton, promises to honor the history of the Academy, the work and devotion of the Sisters of the Holy Cross and “help future generations of young women grow in wisdom, character and service”. What a beautiful legacy!
Tell us about your two sons’ Bishop Ireton HS experiences and how it prepared them for college from your vantage point.
Both William (’97) and John (’98) entered Bishop Ireton with strong academic records which they maintained throughout their time at Ireton. The range of courses that they were able to take was amazing–even almost thirty years ago there were so many AP and Honors classes that students would really pursue their interests. They were both blessed to have been taught by some legendary teachers–Mr. Bulcavage,
Mr. Umbeck and Brother Rick Wilson just to name a few. They both were involved in the drama program and enjoyed being part of the backstage crew. William was on the It’s Academic team which was great fun and John was a percussionist for the band. The band trip was an extraordinary opportunity for the members of the band to experience a foreign country and play for new audiences. We sold a lot of oranges and grapefruits [to fundraise for the trips]! They were also blessed to have the presence of the Oblates, both principals and faculty, during their years at Ireton. Both William and John had acceptances from a number of schools. William chose to go to Georgetown and John to Catholic University and both found that they were very well prepared for the rigors of a college curriculum.
Can you share some of the tremendous experiences you have had over the years working with the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales and their Salesian Spirituality teachings?
As a product of Catholic education myself, from kindergarten through graduation from college, I was exposed to a number of different charisms and religious order philosophies. The Holy Cross Sisters, who were part of my education from kindergarten through high school, had “Spes Unica”– the Cross our only hope– as their motto, which was a clear guide for virtue and spirituality. College exposed me to a wider range of other charisms, but when I started to study The Introduction to the Devout Life, I knew I had found a spirituality that was accessible and something that an ordinary soul like me could strive to live. In this day and age where young people are so confused about what or who they should imitate, this gentle saint provides clear and understandable guidance:
“Be who you are and be that well.”
“Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength.”
“Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit.”
How countercultural are these maxims for life? And my personal favorite has always been “Have patience with all things - but first with yourself. Never confuse your mistakes with your value as a human being.”
Truly words to live by!
As the principal of St. Rita’s I was privileged to spend time with Father Metzger, Father Nadolski and Father Hillyard in their roles as principals of Bishop Ireton. I have also known [current Head of School] Mrs. Kathleen McNutt for some time, both professionally and personally. These leaders have formed a school community that reflects the Faith and puts that Faith into action, both every day in their interactions with all members of the school community and on a larger, mission-focused outreach to those in need. Inspiring in the students that desire to serve others is a unique feature of a Catholic school and sets it apart from public education. The shared mission, the shared sense of belonging to a community – these are hallmarks of the Bishop Ireton experience.
How is your family doing today?
We are great! My husband has his own consulting firm and works in aviation, particularly electric-powered airplanes. I continue to support student-teachers from George Mason and Phoenix, as well as first-year principals. We travel quite a bit–Puerto Rico every February for a week and a week in Emerald Isle in October are musts–John moved to Australia five years ago, and we visit him and his lovely wife Alex every other year–what a trip that is! But it is worth it to spend a month or so together. They are so very happy and we have fallen in love with the country! William works for the government, teaches at Georgetown, and also lives a very happy life locally with his lovely wife Elena. They have a son, Teddy, who has captured our hearts in a special way – we love being grandparents!
the St. Mary’S acadeMy aluMnae aSSociation ScholarShip Introducing
The history of St. Mary’s Academy, the all-girls Catholic high school run by the Sisters of the Holy Cross, goes back more than 150 years to its establishment in 1869 through its closing in 1990. The all-girls school developed a closeknit relationship with the all-boys Bishop Ireton when its doors were opened in 1964. That relationship in shared community, extracurricular activities, fine arts and some academic coursework continued until 1990 when SMA closed and Bishop Ireton became co-ed, welcoming the SMA students to Cambridge Road.
Despite times of challenge and change, including the wartime relocation from Prince Street to Russell Road and the eventual closure and transition in 1990 to Bishop Ireton High School, the spirit of St. Mary’s Academy has endured. Its values—faith, community, courage, and compassion—remain alive in the hearts of all who walked its halls.
In order to preserve and strengthen the enduring legacy of the many incredible women who attended and graduated from SMA and the many religious sisters and lay teachers who served there, Bishop Ireton, in partnership with the SMAAA has set up an endowment. It is being established to honor the Academy’s proud history and to ensure that the mission of Catholic education for young women in Alexandria continues to thrive. To reach the initial endowment level for the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Arlington, Bishop Ireton, in partnership with SMAAA, must raise $50,000. Gifts to
the SMAAA Endowment will:
• Honor the legacy of the Sisters of the Holy Cross and generations of alumnae who built St. Mary’s with faith and dedication.
• Support Catholic education in our community, helping future generations of young women grow in wisdom, character and service.
• Keep alive the spirit of St. Mary’s Academy, ensuring that its story remains a living influence within Bishop Ireton and beyond.
If you are able to give, regardless of whether you are an alumna, a family member or a friend touched by the legacy of St. Mary’s, your contribution will make a lasting difference. The history of St. Mary’s Academy can help shape the future of young women at Bishop Ireton for generations to come.
This merit-based tuition scholarship, which is rooted in the mission of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, will be presented annually to a current 9th-11th grade female student at Bishop Ireton High School who is a recognized leader in the areas of service and academics. This young woman will exhibit the core values of the Sisters of the Holy Cross and the Academy, demonstrating compassion through service to others in the community, living her faith with integrity, fostering a sense of community amongst her peers and showing a commitment to justice and personal growth.
Scholarship selection is determined by the faculty and administration in consultation with the SMAAA Board and will be presented at Bishop Ireton’s Marguerite Scafati Academic and Service Awards Banquet in the spring. This banquet honors student service leaders and those students with a grade point average of 4.0 or higher for the year.
the NEST Homecoming & Reunion Weekend 2025 and Looking Ahead to 2026
Bishop Ireton had a great turnout on Friday evening, October 3, 2025, where we celebrated the Classes of 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020 along with many other alumni from other classes.
On Saturday morning, the fun continued when the Cardinals faced off with an early kickoff against the Landon School. At halftime, the Class of 1975, celebrating 50 years, was recognized at midfield. Saturday closed out with several alumni classes hosting reunion events in the evening, including Class of 1975 who held their get together in Old Town Alexandria with a great attendance!
Mark your calendars for the 2026 Homecoming and Reunion Festivities!
Friday, October 9
BI/SMA All-Classes Friday Night Social in Murphy Hall from 7-9 pm (21+ to attend) with special emphasis on the classes of 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016 and 2021. Make sure to register early. The early bird price to attend the Friday evening festivities is $50 until September 9. The cost includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Register by scanning the QR code.
Saturday, October 10
Home Football Game vs. Bishop O’Connell – 11 am Kickoff on Fannon Field
Sunday, October 11
Mass @ 10 am in newly renovated chapel with refreshments, coffee and tours of the new and renovated spaces around campus to follow.
Be on the lookout for more information in the BI alumni e-newsletter News from the Nest and through your class agent. If you have any questions, please contact Chris Gilliland or Ryan Fannon in the Advancement Office at Advancement@bishopireton.org
Bishop Ireton Athletic Hall of Fame Inducts Four Athletes and One Team
The Bishop Ireton Athletic Hall of Fame got a little bit deeper during Homecoming & Reunion Weekend 2025.
Four athletes and one team were inducted into the exclusive group of athletes, which, before the 2025 induction, had only recognized 43 individual athletes, six coaches and four teams since it was first established in 2008.
This year, the honorees were John Gallagher (BI ‘70, Wrestling), Lynn Ryan Johnson (SMA ‘80, Swimming), Mike Johnson (BI ‘80, Swimming), Akunna Konkwo (BI ‘19, Basketball) and the 19681969 Boys Varsity Basketball Team.
The honorees were officially inducted in a ceremony held at the Westin Alexandria Old Town on Thursday, October 2 with more than 100 people in attendance.
Nominations will open for the next class of Hall of Famers–who will be inducted in the fall of 2028–in 2027. Stay tuned for the nomination form!
John Gallagher BI ’70
John was a four-year member of the boys wrestling team. He was co-captain his senior year and was the 1970 Alexandria Sportsman’s Club Co-Athlete of the Year for Wrestling. He was also the first Bishop Ireton wrestler with an undefeated season (22-0) in 1970. During his high school career, he twice won the Catholic University, the Kiwanis Club (at William Tennant High School) and the St. Albans Independent School Tournaments. He concluded his high school varsity-wrestling career with a 65-5-1 record.
Lynn Ryan Johnson SMA ‘80
Lynn was an outstanding swimmer during her high school years at St. Mary’s Academy. She began her journey as a freshman, quickly setting multiple school records and earning five All-American honors. By her senior year, she was the captain of the girls swim team and a standout leader both in and out of the pool.
Mike Johnson ‘80
Mike began at Bishop Ireton as a junior and during his two seasons under Coaches Harry Sober and Fr. Al Smith, he was undefeated in dual meets and Metro Prep Championships, while winning events at multi-school invitationals including the ODU Invite and Virginia State Independent Schools Invite. When he graduated, Mike occupied positions in the BI All Time Top-5 performers’ list in events ranging from 100y to 500y in freestyle, butterfly, breaststroke and Individual Medley, as well as the 400y Freestyle Relay. He served as cocaptain in 1980.
Akunna Konkwo BI ‘19
Akunna earned numerous accolades during her four years on the girls varsity basketball team, including being a four-time WCAC First-Team selection, a multiple-time Washington Post AllMet honoree and a three-time All-State recipient. She was also named to the USA TODAY All-USA Virginia Girls Basketball Second Team.
By the end of her sophomore year, Akunna had scored more than 1,000-points. She went on to score another 1,000 points over the next two seasons, ultimately graduating as Bishop Ireton’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder with 2,345 points and 1,800 rebounds. Her outstanding achievements earned her the 2019 Alexandria Sportsman’s Club Girls Basketball Player of the Year award and The Howe Family Scholarship Fund.
The 1968-69 Boys Varsity Basketball Team
After two years of building, the 1968–69 Boys Varsity Basketball Team posted its first winning season with an 18-10 record under new head coach Tom O’Keefe. The team won the Virginia State Catholic High School Championship—the first in school history.
THE MYSTERY & HISTORY OF THE
Spirit Rock
THE BISHOP IRETON SPIRIT ROCK IS HARD TO MISS. EVER WONDERED
HOW IT GOT
TO BI IN THE FIRST PLACE? MYSTERY SOLVED.
BY: JOSH GOLDMAN
It felt like the middle of the night, though it was probably actually only somewhere between 10 pm and midnight. It’s May 2006 and I, along with two close friends and classmates, had traveled from Arlington to Cambridge Road under the cover of darkness, clad in old clothes with a bag of supplies. Spray paint and flashlights were spilled in front of us on the sparse stretch of grass between the upper parking lot at Bishop Ireton and the road. We were seniors, getting ready to graduate and we weren’t there to vandalize the school. We were there to paint the Bishop Ireton spirit rock.
I wish I could say there was a plan. That there was some greater artistic vision. But truthfully, there was no plan. There wasn’t really even part of a plan. Instead we were just a trio of high school kids looking to leave a mark for the Class of 2006 in the most responsible way we knew how–painting the rock.
As we were dousing the rock with cans of red and yellow paint, a handful of cars drove by on Cambridge Road. Most didn’t pay us any attention. Then, one approached and slowed as it got to us. Out stepped Mr. John Schlickenmaier (BI ‘98) who also happened to be a member of the faculty at the time. Busted. Except, not really. We technically weren’t doing anything wrong. The rock was there to be painted. And so instead of reporting us to the administration and being marched unceremoniously to Father Matt Hillyard’s principal’s office on Monday morning, he took a picture for us (I’m pictured center squatting in front of our masterpiece).
It never really occurred to me until I started working at Bishop Ireton to consider where this rock came from. I suppose as with all things that exist before you arrive, you just kind of assume they were always there. But as I began to dive deeper, I realized that the rock, in fact, was not always a part of Bishop Ireton. Between myself and other members of the Bishop Ireton Advancement team, we contacted alumni from all different decades to determine if anyone could remember when the rock first appeared at the school.
When we couldn’t find anything definitive, I envisioned writing a fictional piece about the rock for the magazine to “create” its history. Perhaps the rock originated from a mountain in Switzerland, was blessed by St. Francis de Sales himself in the 16th century, made a journey over land and sea to America where it was dropped in the port town of Alexandria. In reality, the story was far less complicated but no less interesting.
I started to look through Bishop Ireton yearbooks, which have become core texts of Bishop Ireton history, to see the first time the rock made an appearance. It turns out the first photographic evidence of the rock was in Flight 1993. That, combined with my knowledge from Associate Director of Advancement Ryan Fannon (BI ‘89) and Head of School Kathleen McNutt (SMA ‘87) who had no recollection of a rock, gave me a small window in which the rock could have appeared, likely in 1991, 1992 or 1993. I had a road to go down but without more finite details, it seemed like it was going to be another dead end.
And yet, my determination to find the origins of this misshapen geological substance wasn’t quelled. So I put out a call asking for any and all
information about the rock in the BI alumni e-newsletter, News from the Nest, hoping that someone might see it and reach out. At first, there was no response. Then, I got an email that someone could put me in touch with someone else who maybe had some information I could use.
I didn’t think much of it but I reached out to the contact I’d gotten. That person put me in touch with Melissa Gardiner (née Ward). And it turns out that not only did she have information about the BI spirit rock, she actually was the person who had brought the rock to Cambridge Road. I didn’t just have a lead. I didn’t just have a source. I had the source.
The 1992-1993 school year was Melissa’s senior year at Bishop Ireton. That year, she served as the student government vice president with fellow senior Ross Dessert as the student government president. While thinking about the legacy they wanted to leave at the school, they came up with the idea of finding a spirit rock to sit on campus. It could be decorated or painted and would serve as a permanent place for students to show their Cardinal pride. They approached the administration with the idea. Melissa recalls that Father Metzger, who was principal at the time, said, “If it’s okay with the Colonel, it’s okay with
me.” The “Colonel” referred to Pete Lefevre, the BI Dean of Students in 1992. After hearing the proposal from Ross and Melissa, he agreed. From there, Melissa remembers going to a nearby quarry–she doesn’t remember which one now but likely one in a neighboring county–with her dad and the Colonel himself. There, they selected the rock and Melissa’s family paid to have it moved to Cambridge Road. The details this many years later are a bit fuzzy but Melissa does recall a big crowd of people gathering in the upper parking lot when the rock was brought to campus. The excitement was palpable as heavy machinery lowered the rock into place.
Original pictures I found in yearbooks suggest that the rock was originally placed near the entrance to Fannon Field. It sat there for a number of years. Sometime between when it was originally brought and when I painted it in 2006, it was moved to its current location between the upper parking lot and Cambridge Road.
Today, the rock is painted multiple times per year. It’s used to celebrate team wins, cultural months, the senior class and more. There may even be times when students steal away in the middle of the night to leave their mark just as I did with my friends in 2006. It’s hard to know what kind of rock the BI spirit rock is. That information might be lost to history. Perhaps someday, a geologist will take a sample and determine what
kind of rock it is and from which quarry it came. But maybe the kind of rock and where it came from specifically doesn’t really matter. Maybe contrary to the typical saying, it’s not the inside that counts. In this case, maybe it’s the outside that counts. Maybe instead it’s hundreds and hundreds of layers of paint that represent the rich history of Bishop Ireton and the Cardinal spirit.
When you watch Gabby Baniqued teach, one of the things you might notice is the attentiveness of the students. It’s that much more impressive when you learn that the poised and confident faculty member graduated from Bishop Ireton just eight years ago in 2018 and from college just four years ago in 2022. Now, in addition to her role in the Computer Science department at BI, she has also taken on the mantle of Director of Diversity following Milton Powell’s departure from Bishop Ireton in 2025. She’s wise beyond her years and she’s up for the challenge.
Gabby grew up in Maryland in a Filipino-American family and in a community that was notably diverse. She remembers experiencing her culture through faith and food. The parish where her family worshipped was predominantly Filipino Catholics. Her parents worked hard to ensure that Gabby and her sister learned about their culture
through Filipino dishes for lunch and dinner and with knowledge and experiences. “Growing up, we were booked and busy with loads of extracurriculars, which I believe formed us into creative, outgoing, and curious young women,” recalls Gabby.
When it was time for high school, Gabby already had a connection with Bishop Ireton. At the age of just four, she performed in a dance recital in Garwood Whaley Auditorium. Things would come full circle when Gabby saw a fellow Filipino-American and BI student, performing on stage at Bishop Ireton while she was in middle school. Once a Cardinal, she spent much of her time outside of class involved
with the theater department, in the tech booth or behind the camera. She also fully immersed herself in the school’s computer science program, which Gabby says is one of the main reasons she pursued that discipline in college.
After graduating from the University of Maryland with a degree in computer science, she didn’t initially have intentions of teaching. When a former teacher reached out letting her know a computer science position was opening, she considered the opportunity. “While I was set on continuing working in data analysis, during college I had developed a passion for working with young people in youth ministry settings,” said Gabby. “Teaching high school computer science felt like a beautiful mix of both.”
Even before returning as a faculty member, Gabby was aware of the work being done at Bishop Ireton to improve the student experience relating to issues about race. She wanted to be involved in some capacity but didn’t bring it up
MEET GABBY BANIQUED
Director of
may be young but she’s ready for the rigors of the role.
before interviewing. Through what she credits to God’s timing, she was connected with Milton Powell during her interview process and agreed to a role on the Diversity team as a Diversity Initiatives Coordinator in addition to accepting a role teaching computer science.
When Milton departed Bishop Ireton to work closer to home, Gabby was a natural fit to assume the role of Diversity Director. “Milton was a great mentor and teacher,” said Gabby. “This year, we’ve kept up many of the activities and traditions [begun in years past].” As for additional initiatives for the team, there is a newfound emphasis on supporting student-run cultural clubs culminating in what Gabby hopes will be the best school wide cultural fair yet.
Since the diversity initiative began in earnest in 2020 at BI, the school has done amazing work through the Diversity team to embrace all races, cultures and backgrounds. And as recognized by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, diversity is a key component of living our Catholic faith:
“My hope for the future of the Diversity Team at BI is that it can grow to respond to each unique set of students we welcome each year.”
- Gabby Baniqued
“As Catholics, we believe that every person is beloved by God and created in his image. Each child of God has value and dignity… May we recognize the rich gifts that neighbors from diverse cultures bring to our communities. The Body of Christ is beautiful in its diversity and each part, while different,
BANIQUED
is valued and needed. I pray that together, we can be people of welcome, respect and understanding.” - Bishop Daniel E. Garcia, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee for the Promotion of Racial Justice and Reconciliation
Gabby hopes to continue the important work started by Milton and Head of School Kathleen McNutt. “My hope for the future of the Diversity Team at BI is that it can grow to respond to each unique set of students we welcome each year. I hope that it can become more accessible so that more people feel comfortable sharing their hopes and ideas on how to enhance the student experience at BI and how to better cultivate belonging at BI.”
GOLF Classic
Thank you to the golf committee, sponsors, volunteers and golfers for attending the 38th Annual Bishop Ireton Golf Classic, which was held on May 5, 2025 at Mt. Vernon Country Club in Alexandria.
The winning scores for the event were:
NET WINNER (Score of 55)
Connor Tracy ‘04
Kyle Richards
Liz Tracy
Mike Thomas ‘04
GROSS WINNER (Score of 53):
Mike Brideau ‘06
Matt Brideau ‘02
Dave Brideau ‘04
Terry Brideau
As is tradition with this event, the money raised from the Golf Classic goes toward the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales retirement fund, financial aid for Bishop Ireton students and funds for ongoing athletic projects.
Join Bishop Ireton for the 39th Annual Bishop Ireton Golf Classic on May 4, 2026 at a new location - Belle Haven Country Club!
Each year, the Golf Classic welcomes a full field of golfers and dozens of sponsors. Since 1988, alumni, parents and friends of Bishop Ireton have raised more than $2 million to support the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, provide needed financial aid and to assist with ongoing projects.
To register for the 39th Annual Bishop Ireton Golf Classic, visit bishopireton.org/ golfclassic or scan the QR code.
Head of School Circle & Cardinal Leadership Circle
The Head of School and Cardinal Leadership Circles are a community of our most engaged alumni, parents, and friends who support the school with annual fund gifts of $1,000 - $4,999 for our Cardinal Leadership Circle and $5,000 in our Head of School Circle each fiscal year (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025).
Bishop Ireton is deeply grateful for the commitment of our philanthropic leaders. Your investment in the School allows us to provide the highest quality Catholic education possible and ensures the future of Bishop Ireton for generations to come. Please know that the decision to be a major donor makes a huge difference in the lives of our students as we continue our mission to Advance Always and Live Jesus.
In the following pages you will find both our Cardinal Leadership Circle and Head of School Leadership Circle donors. Tuition does not cover the total cost of educating a Bishop Ireton student, and many of our families receive financial assistance to enable their children to attend. Gifts to our Annual Fund or one of our scholarships play a key role in supporting the daily operations and enhancing the mission of Bishop Ireton High School.
Head of School Circle Donors
Anonymous
Rebecca Aughney and Jeffrey Williams
James and Carolyn Barker
Jay and Patricia Barnwell
Rob Beer
Mike and Niki Bennett
George Blackman
Mike Cammisa
Alberto Chalmeta
Ernie and Diane Coggins
David and Sheri Dennison
Peter and Louis Fecanin
Scott Fedder
Full Spectrum Catering, INC.
Jon and Nancy Futrell
Linda Gaghan and Gaghan Mechanical, INC.
Janis Garcia Keating
Mary Gillespie and Patrick Brown
Everett and Robin Hellmuth
Kate and Jeff Hull
Adam and Abigail Ingols
Katherine Kopp
Philip and Marguerite Leopold
Seven and Jennifer Maceda
Margaret McAneny
Tim and Lauren McCarthy
Eric McNutt
Marion Moon
Brian and Pam Murphy
The Oblates of St. Francis de Sales - WilmingtonPhiladelphia Province, INC.
Ourisman of Virginia
Passport Automotive
Thomas Perry
Jim Schoenadel
Harry Sober
Joe and Jennifer Sprague
Hank and Ann Sterbenz
BJ Sullivan and Angela Santini
Anne Termine and Greg Welsch
Cardinal Leadership Circle Donors
Heidi and John Abegg
Najib and Gisele Azar
Christopher Ballard
Victor Baran and Dawn Ortell
Rosemary Gutierrez and Michael Bailey
Lamont Belk
Leslie Beyer
David Boyd
Lynne Boyle
Buddy Buckner
Susan Buenaventura and David Sendi
Moira and Tim Buzby
Patrick Cady
James Cammisa
Shannen and Casey Coffin
Mark and Jane Chopko
David and Lisa Marie Cheney
Christine Codd
Mary and Pat Costello
Dennis and Christine Curry
Barbara Dalmut
Matthew and Laura Danysh
Amanda and Randy Davis
Marc and Alison DeCourcey
Paul and Jennifer Dyck
Kurt and Angie Ebey
Gary and Mary Fedorochko
Michael Moses and Carey Fenn-Moses
Anne Farrell
Fidelity Charitable
Gregory Flessate
Mark and Brenda Franke
Kathleen and Michael Gaffney
Richard Gannon
Pete and Janet Gartlan
Joan Gartlan
Mary and William Gately
Cecelia and Michael Gilliam
David and Roberta Giammittorio
William and Dorothy Gray
Nestor Garcia
Janis Garcia Keating
Tim and Kathy Guy
Jennifer and Jeff Hare
Craig and Susan Hodges
Jeffrey Hoge
Rosemary and Colin Jellish
Sara and Ian Jefferies
Peggy and Rick Jensen
Johnson and Johnson
Holly and Conrad Lass
Daniel Lungren
Sarah Magruder Lyle and Brian Lyle
Clare McCaffrey and Robert Mate
William and Abigail McCarthy
Bonnie McDonald
Aris and Gibson McMahon
Eric McNutt
Daniel and Martha Mica
John and Katherine Miller
Regina and Michael Mohr
Brian and Sunny Mullery
Kory and Maerose Naduvilekunnel
Stefani and Andy Nick
Jennifer and Brian Persico
Rob Peterson
Cassie and Byron Pickard
Paul and Jane Pisano
Reince and Sally Priebus
Mark and Laura Rayder
Ed Rana
Veronika and Phil Riley
Rising Phoenix Charitable Foundation
Becci and Sean Roberts
Rob and Mary Rosado
Livingston Satterthwaite
Patrick Scheetz
Paul and Nancy Skelly
Steven and Brenda Sprague
John St. Hilaire
Robert and Mary Storch
Justin and Mary Kate Sparrow
Matthew and Allison Travis
OBITUARIES
We pray for the repose of the souls of all those lost in the Bishop Ireton and St. Mary’s Academy communities.
Scott Cady Marinoff (Former Student and brother to Marty ’68 and George ’77) June 12, 2023
John Bradberry (BI ‘71) January 20, 2025
Dan Carroll (BI ‘73) March 3, 2025
Ann Guiffre (Mother of Michael ’79 and Susan Guiffre-Hebbel SMA ’82 and Grandmother of Katie ’05) March 5, 2025
William Patrick Darmody (Grandparent of Dylan Westphal ‘15 and Hallie Westphal ’18) March 12, 2025
Allie Murl York (Parent of Bill ’68 and Bob ’70) March 21, 2025
James Resetar (Parent of Kathleen Sain ’03, and Laura Koch ’07) March 21, 2025
Ellen Chambers Rooney ( Parent of Charlie ’82 and Bill ’85) March 26, 2025
Timothy Campbell ’69 (Brother of Daphne Campbell McClosekey SMA ’61, Susan Campbell Allen, Former SMA Student, Harry Campbell ’70, and David Campbell, Former Bishop Ireton Student) April 3, 2025
Dorothy Northcutt (Mother of Mauris Mackenzie ’76) April 11, 2025
Danny Brown (BI ‘72) April 15, 2025
Frances Patricia Geoghegan Dunphy (SMA ‘61) April 21, 2025
Sandra J. Neilson (SMA ‘62) April 24, 2025
Cornelius “Neil” Deir (Parent of Kay Green SMA ’82, Sean Deir ‘85, Brian Deir ’90, grandparent of Jay Green ’10, Larkin Green ’13, and Emma ’17) May 7, 2025
Leo J. Arico ’70 (Brother of Paula Arico SMA ’72) May 9, 2025
Janet McGraw Hayden (SMA ‘64) May 15, 2025
Carl Smearman (BI ‘14) May 30, 2025
Claudia H. Faherty (Parent of Kathleen Faherty McNutt SMA ’87 (Geoff McNutt ’87), Mark Faherty ’96, Megan Faherty ’98, Bridget Flaaen ’02 and Grandparent of Kaitlyn Gerke ’14 (Stephen ’14), Megan Newell ’16 (Tim ’16), Camryn McNutt ’18, Morgan McNutt ’19, and Connor McNutt ’22) June 7, 2025
Andy Burns (BI ‘06) June 18, 2025
Michael Coyne (Former Basketball Coach) June 29, 2025
Daun Michelle Kopca (SMA ‘77) July 1, 2025
Laura M. Carver (Mother of Karl (Kasey) Carver ‘86) July 5, 2025
Fitzhugh Lee Opie (BI ‘75) July 25, 2025
Julie Johnson (SMA ’73 and sister of Brian ’70, Kevin ’72, Kurt ’74 and Susan Vega SMA ’90) July 26, 2025
David Langley (Spouse of Carolyn SMA ’67, Parent of Scott ’90 and Former Coach) August 11, 2025
OBITUARIES
Susan Ann Lauver (SMA ‘62) August 14, 2025
Matthew McCormack (BI ’92 and Brother of Edward ’89) August 19, 2025
Nancy Simpson Davis (SMA ‘58) August 21, 2025
Barbara Jane Murphy Edlund (SMA ‘62) August 24, 2025
Richard (Dick) O’Brien (Parent of Bob ’88 and Former Board Chair) August 26, 2025
Barbara Jean McNulty (SMA ‘53) August 31, 2025
Barbara Holsclaw (Grandmother of Sydney ‘22 and Catherine ‘26) September 10, 2025
Joseph Ferguson, Sr. (Former Teacher, Director of Alumni Relations, and Honorary Graduate, Father of Reverend Thomas Ferguson ’84, Michael Ferguson ’85, Joseph Ferguson, Jr. ’87, Mary Elizabeth McNicol ’92, Brian Ferguson ’95, Clare Greksouk ’02 (John ’02) and Grandparent of John Ferguson ’18, Kieran Ferguson ’20, Elizabeth Ferguson ’22, Kathleen Ferguson ’25, Monica McNicol ’19, Maggie McNicol ’20, and Molly McNicol ’23) September 11, 2025
David Gifford (BI ‘81) September 12, 2025
Patrick Garrity (BI ‘80) September 23, 2025
JoAnn Herr (Parent of Alison Herr ChristmasSMA ‘88 Alicia Herr Jensen - SMA ‘88 Valerie Herr McWhorter - BI ‘93 grandparent to Stephen G. Christmas - BI ‘23 Patrick A. Christmas - BI ‘26) October 15, 2025
Anne Manning (SMA ‘54) October 16, 2025
Evan Motta (Bishop Ireton Assistant Lacrosse Coach) October 27, 2025
Josephine Cofer (Mother of Leslie (Cofer) Church SMA ‘89) November 11, 2025
Margaret “Peggy” Lee Christoff (SMA ‘65) November 14, 2025
Elizabeth Christensen (Mother of Emily ‘25) November 23, 2025
Tanuja Gnanasekaran (Mother of Angeline ‘17, Jay ‘20, Shriya ‘25, and Sathya ‘29) December 7, 2025
Janice “Jan” Foley (Former employee and Mother of Paige ‘12) December 10, 2025
Jay Lawrence “Larry” Hirsch (Father of Andrew ‘09) December 31, 2025
Rev. Thomas Patrick Norris, OSFS (Former teacher at Bishop Ireton and religious superior for the Oblate community (1983-1990)) January 9, 2026
John Andrew Barnes (Father of John Barnes ‘85 and Jennifer (Barnes) Hamer SMA ‘90 (Pete Hamer - Former Employee), grandparent of Kaitlin Hamer Slack ‘13, Joey Hamer ‘17, Nick Hamer ‘21, and Meghan Hamer ‘27) January 11, 2026
Paul Painter (BI ‘85) January 16, 2026
Natalie Schoenadel (Mother of Carmel “Candy” Falvey SMA ‘75 and Jim ‘77) January 25, 2026
