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Central Catholic magazine Winter 2026

N T R A E

RAM OPEN A

We offer leadership, athletic, and summer camps and classes for students entering grades 3-12, focused on discovery, growth, and FUN! REGISTER TODAY! Whether a student is already part of the Ramily, or is attending school somewhere else, they are welcome at Central Catholic this summer to build confidence, explore new interests, and make lasting memories!

Camp Central is Calling

Save the Date: Friday, August 7, 2026

Glendoveer Golf Course • Noon Shotgun Start Four-person scramble with boxed lunch and swag bag followed by an awards dinner. Cost: $150 per person/$600 per foursome There are many opportunities for sponsorships! Contact Dustin Daniel, Manager of Alumni Engagement, at 503.230.1056 ext. 1243 or ddaniel@centralcatholichigh.org for more details on sponsorship opportunities.

Save the Date! Marquee Reunions Legacy Classes Classes of 1942-1955 70-Year Reunion Class of 1956 60-Year Reunion Class of 1966 50-Year Reunion Class of 1976 40-Year Reunion Class of 1986

August 8, 2026 • 3:00-6:00 p.m. Central Catholic Campus Appetizers | Drinks | Photos | Campus Tours Check the website for updates: centralcatholichigh.org/alumni/reunions

Central Catholic magazine Winter 2026 2025

Features:

On the Cover Hannah Galati ’22 and River Sampson ’20 with Peer Mentor Annika Ziels ’20 on the annual Christmas Tree Farm Social.

Volume 33 • Number 1 • Winter 2026 Central Catholic Magazine is a publication of Central Catholic High School 2401 SE Stark Street • Portland, Oregon 97214 503.230.1056 • centralcatholichigh.org

Campus Highlights Page 4

Leadership Msgr. Timothy Murphy ’58, President Emeritus Colin McGinty, President Danyelle Ramsey, Principal Ellie Dir, Vice President of Advancement Board of Directors Molly Paustian ’85, Chair Andrew Bennison ’11 Dena Dooney ’88 Dave Gorretta ’87 Harry Hanna ’93 Colin McGinty, Ex-Officio Elias Moo, Ex-Officio Phil Moran ’76 Peter Rauch ’95 Brennan Scarlett ’11 Jo Willhite, Ex-Officio

Presidents’ Dinner and Auction Page 6

Publisher/Layout and Design Jolyn Winczewski Director of Scholarships and Publications Contributing Writers Leila Charleston • Dustin Daniel Ellie Dir • John Garrow ’76 • Jeanie-Marie Price Editing Team Leila Charleston • Dustin Daniel • Ellie Dir Taryn Lange • Elaine Payne • Jeanie-Marie Price

Celebrating 10 Years of the RAMS Program Page 8

Contributing Photographers Jumoke Askari ’25 • Caroline Bynum ’27 Tom Cook Photo • Faye Doherty ’26 Eli Moss ’26 • Marcus Morton ’27 Amalio Quinteros ’26 • Jesse Quinteros ’28 Elijah Williams ’27 • Brayden Wiltgen ’27 Archdiocese of Portland • Central Catholic Staff Central Catholic Mission Statement: Central Catholic is an Archdiocesan Catholic high school that exists to give witness to the Gospel of Christ. The school offers students a transformational educational experience that forms the whole human person—mind, heart, body, and spirit—and is rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church. With an emphasis on faith, intellectual formation, and service to others, students are developed into critical thinkers who are the best version of themselves, prepared for where their gifts meet the world.

Alumni News Page 14

Central Catholic High School is accredited by the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools, The Western Catholic Education Association, and The Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Notice of non-discrimination as it applies to students and employees at Central Catholic High School: Central Catholic High School admits students of any race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all of the rights, privileges, programs, and activities accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other school administered programs. Likewise, Central Catholic High School does not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of race, color, national or ethnic origin, or gender.

Alumni Profile: Joe Etzel ’56 Page 16 Winter 2026 | 1

WELCOME MESSAGE our staff would serve students with learning disabilities. Former AP Calculus teacher Steve Workman challenged us to recognize that serving a small group of students with special needs is just as essential as serving a small group of the best and brightest math students. Danyelle Ramsey, then serving as Director of Campus Ministry, contributed her inspiration, organization, and dedication in preparing the student body to welcome neurodiverse learners to our college-preparatory campus.

Dear Rams This year, Central Catholic is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the RAMS Program, and this edition of our magazine appropriately marks this special moment in time and the lasting relationships formed through the program (see page 8). As we mark a decade of this groundbreaking work, I am filled with tremendous gratitude for the Central Catholic community that helped turn a hopeful idea into a lasting reality. From the very beginning, this program was shaped by faith, collaboration, and a shared belief in the dignity and potential of every student. 1 Corinthians reminds us that wisdom is a gift of the Holy Spirit, and I believe that guidance was present throughout it’s creation, beginning with its name. Alisa Sinnott, who was the Director of Christian Service at the time, offered a simple truth: “We are all Rams, why does the new program need a fancy name?” With that, the RAMS Program found its identity and its heart.

all are welcome!

A dedicated group of faculty and staff visited other schools, studied existing programs, and collaborated to design the right model for Central Catholic—work that ultimately led to the hiring of Dean Heuberger as coordinator. A graduate of Catholic schools, Dean brought with him a career in public education as a Special Education teacher and helped establish the foundation for how

Alumnae and former staff member Mary (Wilson) Mauldin ‘10 helped lead the program in its earliest years, including the creation of Ram Roast as a meaningful school-based work experience, followed by Mary Beth Pinder ‘85, who continues to guide this work with dedication and care. Additionally, then-President John Harrington ‘66 provided unwavering support to help get the it off the ground. Faculty across campus embraced the work by opening their classrooms and committing themselves to inclusion, and families placed their trust in Central Catholic to provide a highquality, faith-filled education for their students. Together, these efforts helped ensure that the RAMS Program was not simply added to the school but fully woven into the fabric of the community. At the heart of the RAMS Program are the Peer Mentors, whose humility, compassion, and commitment embody the Church’s vision of “one body, many parts.” Through their relationships and daily presence, they help create a culture of belonging that reaches far beyond the classroom. These friendships with the RAMS students remind us that inclusion is not about accommodation alone, but about friendship, shared growth, and mutual respect. As we mark this milestone, I am deeply grateful to everyone who has played a part in the RAMS Program’s journey. It stands as a powerful expression of Central Catholic’s mission and a lasting reminder that at our core, we truly are all Rams.

John Garrow ’76 Principal 2009 to 2019

CENTRAL CATHOLIC

PICKLEBALL

OPEN

Saturday, April 11•11:00 A.M. Competitive and Recreational Brackets!

2 | Central Catholic Magazine

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priz

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drin

fun!

AL CATH R T

E Each December, Central Catholic High School pauses from its regular routine to focus intentionally on service. This year’s annual Week of Giving continued that long-standing tradition in a powerful way, mobilizing students, families, faculty, staff, and alumni to support individuals and families throughout the Portland metro area during the holiday season. The scope of generosity during this year’s Week of Giving exceeded expectations. The community set a goal of collecting 15,000 canned and boxed food items. By week’s end, more than 18,000 items had been donated, allowing Central Catholic to support over 800 local families. “The level of support this year went above and beyond what we expected,” said David Lester ’94, Director of Community

G I V I OF G

IC OL

CEN

WEEK OF GIVING

Ministry. “This abundant generosity is a welcomed gift this year with so much need in our community.” In addition to food donations, the Week of Giving addressed a wide range of needs through partnerships with local nonprofits and parish organizations. Our community collected nearly 900 food boxes for St. Vincent de Paul conferences, more than 400 gifts for Catholic Charities, and over 1,300 coats, sweatshirts, pants, and other clothing items. Donations also included 350 blankets and sleeping bags, more than 200 pairs of shoes and boots, and 2,000 pairs of socks. For students, the experience is about more than meeting donation goals. The Week of Giving offers a tangible opportunity to put faith into action and to better understand

the realities faced by many in the region. Whether organizing collections, sorting donations, or helping load deliveries, students take an active role in serving their neighbors. Now in its twenty-fifth year, Central Catholic’s Week of Giving has become a defining expression of the school’s mission. Through sustained partnerships with local organizations, the initiative reinforces a commitment to service, compassion, and responsibility to others. Year after year, it serves as a reminder that meaningful impact is created not by one individual, but by a community working together. Although the Week of Giving is behind us, its effects continue well beyond the holiday season, reaching families across the region and reflecting the enduring spirit of service at Central Catholic High School.

Winter 2026 | 3

CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS

Nathan Patla continues to foster a passion for science in his Chemistry classes and pushes students toward academic excellence.

It was a blessing to have Archbishop Alexander Sample on campus to celebrate our Christ the King Mass on October 24.

On October 2, the Class of 2026 set out on a pilgrimage to Mt. Tabor as part of their Journey Ahead Retreat—a day designed to foster self-discovery, belonging, and community.

This fall, we welcomed hundreds of middle school students for an array of events designed to connect them to campus, including two nights of leadership summits in December.

Over the course of seven performances, our thespians dazzled and delighted audiences with their fall production of Much Ado About Nothing.

On November 24, we welcomed special guests to campus for Mass and fun for our annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day.

Our student musicians performed on multiple occasions throughout the fall, from football games to concerts, to Open Mic Nights–like this one held on December 12.

In September, we launched our official TikTok account, highlighting the fun pieces of the Ramily. Check us out on TikTok @centralcatholicrams.

Open House, held on October 19, was a huge success: more than 400 future Rams and their families spent time on campus engaging in conversations, activities, and connections.

Mariko Tokoyoda and Bryan Lafaye developed a strong programmatic connection between Japanese and Art. It is blossoming into an impactful experience for our students.

The annual Homecoming Assembly was out of this world! From games and cheers to spirit and smiles, the October 8 assembly kicked off an unforgettable Homecoming weekend.

PRESIDENTS’ DINNER AND AUCTION

irty

THE WAY

- Fir s

t Pr e s i d en ts ’ D i n n e r a n

LIGHT u dA

THIRTY-FIRST PRESIDENTS’ DINNER AND AUCTION

A little fun. A little suspense. A lot to look forward to.

April 17, 2026 | AVENUE Portland

This year's auction will feature multiple raffles, offering guests a fun way to help Central Catholic students.

5:00 p.m. | Happy Hour and Hors d’Oeuvres 6:20 p.m. | Dinner and Program $125 Each or Table of 10 for $1,250 https://auctria.events/2026centralcatholicauction

RAFFLES

Raffle One: VIP Reserved Parking Spot Raffle Two: Ultimate Seaside Escape Scan the QR code to stay in the loop and be part of the excitement. Secure your raffle tickets before they're gone!

Buy Your Tickets Here:

or call 503.230.1056

JOIN OUR ONLINE AUCTION Opens: Noon, April 9 Closes: Noon, April 20

Step 1:

Step 2:

Bid on the packages you enjoy!

DRAWING DETAILS: The winning tickets will be drawn on Friday, April 17, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m. during the Thirty-First President’s Dinner and Auction at AVENUE Portland (631 NE Grand Ave). Need not be present to win. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: Location: Participants must be physically present in the State of Oregon at the time of ticket purchase. Age: Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of purchase. TAX AND LEGAL DISCLOSURES: The winner is responsible for all applicable Federal and State income taxes based on the Fair Market Value (FMV) of the prize. To claim prize, the winner must: 1. Provide a valid Social Security Number and a completed IRS Form W-9. 2. Sign the Oregon Department of Justice Raffle Winners Record as required by Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR 137-025-0260).

6 | Central Catholic Magazine

SUPPORT THE

AUCTION

Last year, the Presidents’ Dinner and Auction raised nearly $360,000 in support of tuition assistance and special projects. Currently, over 40% of our students receive some form of needbased financial aid. Attending, sponsoring, and/or donating items for the auction provides critical help to students who otherwise would be unable to attend Central Catholic.

WAYS TO HELP: BECOME AN AUCTION SPONSOR:

Earn premiere recognition by becoming a sponsor! Sponsorship includes event tickets, digital advertising on all event pages online, and signage covering the professional AV floor-to-ceiling digital walls at the event. Sponsors will also receive other special promotional and event benefits.

DONATE GOODS AND SERVICES:

Donations from our amazing community are a large part of what drives the success of this event. Please consider contributing items like: Airline Miles Vacation Homes/Condos/Hotels

• Hawaii/Mexico/Caribbean

• Europe

• Sunriver/Black Butte/Brasada Ranch

• Nashville/Las Vegas/New York

• Palm Springs/San Diego/Napa

Gift Cards Wine/Beer/Spirits Concert Tickets Theatre Tickets Sporting Events Golf: Trips/Rounds/Equipment Theme Baskets Unique Experiences Landscaping Contact Taryn Lange at auction@centralcatholichigh.org or 503.230.1056 ext. 1229 to inquire about donating to or supporting the auction. Thank you!

2023 Senior Retreat

RAMS PROGRAM

A Decade of Fostering Inclusion and Belonging for All Students:

The RAMS Program Celebrates 10 Years of Impact In 1978, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a powerful call for Catholic schools to fully welcome students with disabilities, affirming that “there can be no separate Church for people with disabilities. We are one flock that serves a single shepherd.” Decades later, that message took root at Central Catholic. In 2010, Central Catholic launched its Student Support Services, a program designed to help students with learning differences receive the tools, guidance, and academic support they needed to thrive. This early work laid the foundation for something bigger. By 2013, Central Catholic began preparing for an expansion of this vision, and during the 20152016 school year, it officially launched the RAMS Program, a groundbreaking academic pathway

specifically designed to welcome students with intellectual disabilities fully into the classroom and school. Built on individualized learning, meaningful inclusion, and Catholic values emphasizing the dignity of every person, the creation of the RAMS Program marked a pivotal moment in Central Catholic’s commitment to ensuring that all students—regardless of background, ability, or need—have a place to learn, grow, and contribute to the broader community. This year marks the 10-year anniversary of the program. What began as a daring idea has become one of the most influential and beloved programs on campus, transforming not only the students it serves but the entire community around them.

Its impact is best understood through the voices of those who have been involved in the program— both as RAMS students and as Peer Mentors. Many RAMS students describe their experience as one filled with friendship, a sense of belonging, and confidence. Senior Jackson Bennett ‘26 shared simply, “I love the Peer Mentors I get to work with. They have become my friends.” His reflections include the everyday joy of connection: walking the halls together, working side by side in class, or sharing moments at school events. For Jackson, the program revealed the true heart of the school: “We are a family and help each other. Everyone is included and treated how they want to be treated.” For others, the program strengthened their sense of self. Alum Cheyenne Kelly ‘20 said the Winter 2026 |9

RAMS PROGRAM RAMS Program taught her that “everything is challenging, but if you believe in yourself, you can do it.” That confidence helped her grow into the young adult who now leads and encourages younger students as a camp counselor.

Dan Zavage ’24

Jackson Bennett ’26

Mia Hunt ’25 and David Hungerford ’25 10 | Central Catholic Magazine

Some students have even found independence and strength in unexpected places. Dan Zavage ’24 remembers the pride he felt learning to stay focused and advocate for himself. Now, a thriving Sophomore at Benedictine College, he reflects, “The RAMS Program means a lot to me, every time I came to school I always saw friends, teachers, and the staff.” For many alumni, the RAMS title feels less like a title and more like a family they carry forward. Perhaps one of the most powerful examples of the program’s longlasting impact is seen through alum Nate Trevino ’20. His experience spanned across sports teams, the RAM Roast Coffee Cart, and friendships that have lasted far beyond graduation. Reflecting on his years at 24th and Stark, he shared, “I was part of something that was so special. I flourished at Central Catholic, and it changed

the trajectory of my life.” Nate has maintained a strong connection with his former mentors and friends, which is evident through various meet-ups. For instance, he enjoyed dinner in Rome with fellow alum Brian Betcone '19 and his family after Brian graduated from high school, and Nate also visited Brian at the University of Oregon. Eleanor ‘21 and Emma ‘19 Ramsey and Annika Ziels ‘20 have also always supported Nate. These Peer Mentors played crucial roles in Nate's life during his time at Central Catholic and beyond, reflecting the depth of the relationships he formed here. Peer Mentors, too, speak about their time working in the RAMS Program as a defining experience, one that has shaped their character, career paths, and understanding of community. For some, this experience revealed their true calling. Eleanor described her years as a Peer Mentor as transformational. “I never imagined becoming a teacher…But during my first year of college, something felt missing. Working with students with physical and intellectual disabilities helped me discover how much I

Hanna Galati ’22, Mary (Wilson) Mauldin ’10, and Matthew Andersen ’22

RAMS PROGRAM love watching people learn. I saw that I could make a meaningful difference—and in that realization, I found myself.” Others shared that the leadership and empathy they developed in the RAMS Program shaped the careers they would later pursue. From nursing to human resources to education, former Peer Mentors say they continue to rely on the patience, communication skills, and compassion they learned from working alongside RAMS Students. Yet for many, the most lasting impact is found in the relationships themselves. Donald Hunter ’18 reflected, “I eventually became a support for Cody Turtola ‘20 outside of Central Catholic and worked with him for many years. Now, I would just call him a friend, and I am grateful that our relationship was able to evolve the way it did.” For Annika, the experience was nothing short of transformative. “Being a Peer Mentor was singlehandedly the best part of my high school experience and will always be one of the most impactful roles of my life. The peer-to-peer

connection built with the students in the program was magic— challenging, raw, beautiful, messy, hilarious, enriching, and centered around love. When you break it down, that’s what any healthy, meaningful friendship looks like. What I gained were real friendships that grew with me far beyond my time at Central Catholic.” Across all these stories, for students and mentors alike, the message is the same: the RAMS Program is a reminder of what happens when a community chooses belonging as a cornerstone, celebrates every person’s gifts, and understands that inclusion is more than just an act of service—it is an exchange of joy, growth, and humanity.

Diana Barragan ’28

Ten years in, and the Rams Program has transformed lives, strengthened the heart of the school, and modeled what authentic community looks like. The next decade can promise the same: students discovering their confidence and voice, mentors finding their purpose, and a community continuing to be shaped by love, friendship, and the belief that everyone belongs.

Marty Mitchoff ’24, Eleanor Ramsey ’21, and Maya Devine ’27

Archer Hinckley ’27

Donald Hunter ’18 and Cody Turtola ’20 Winter 2026 |11

ATHLETIC

HIGHLIGHTS

Men’s Soccer clinched the Mt. Hood Conference title, marked by a season where the team scored the most goals (32 total) of any 6A team in the state during league matches. The Rams made it to the quarterfinals of the OSAA 6A playoffs, losing to Grant High School. Women’s soccer also clinched the Mt. Hood Conference title and progressed to round two of the playoffs.

In October, the 2024-2025 Men’s Volleyball State Championship team gathered on campus for their Ring ceremony. Last season, the Rams had a perfect record (20-0), earning its first ever boys volleyball state title. That same week, Boy’s Volleyball was officially approved as an OSAAsanctioned sport.

Football kicked off the season with a win over rival Jesuit High School, where Archbishop Alexander Sample was on hand to bless both teams. The Rams went 10-3 overall, advancing to the OSAA 6A Championship game where they fell to Lake Oswego High School.

Our Women’s Volleyball Team was recognized in the OSAA Academic All-State rankings for its combined GPA of 3.79. In addition, Grady Heinle and Malia Kaopuiki-Delaney were named to the Mount Hood Conference first team and Sidney Ginter to the second team.

Our Cross Country program had a banner year with both teams clinching the Mt. Hood Conference Championships! Our men ended the season ninth in state, and our women 12th. Most notable was senior Marli Phelps (center left) being named Mt. Hood Conference Athlete of the Year, and coach Madison Nasteff (center right) being named Coach of the Year.

Visit https://cchsrams.pub/athletics for all upcoming Ram action!

CAMPUS NEWS

ALL IN

For Central Catholic

This fall, Central Catholic launched something new, and it worked! For years, our community has rallied behind the beloved Student Fundraiser, where the focus was on students supporting one another by raising money for Tuition Assistance. This year, we took that same spirit of generosity and reimagined it in a bold, new format: the first-ever ALL IN for Central Catholic! campaign. The goal? To inspire every program, team, and club on campus to take ownership of their impact: raising funds for what matters most to them.

A New Home for Rams Athletics In late January, Central Catholic was selected by the University of Oregon as the long-term licensee and manager of their Portland Campus Athletic Field and Recreational Complex. This incredible facility is now home to our Baseball, Softball, Men’s and Women’s Soccer, Men's and Women's Lacrosse, and Flag Football programs! In addition, the field will be available to the broader community for use starting in early summer.

Over the span of just two weeks, more than 40 teams, representing athletics, the arts, clubs, community ministry, and student life, went all in raising funds for things like educational trips, new sports equipment, and much more. With the help of adult leaders, faculty, mentors, and parents/guardians, they reached out to friends, family, and alumni to share their stories and invite support. In this first year, the results were remarkable: over $127,000 raised, countless connections made, and an unmistakable sense of Ram pride echoing across campus. More than just a fundraiser, ALL IN became a community movement celebrating the diverse programs that make Central Catholic a vibrant place to learn and grow. As we look ahead, we are excited to build on this year’s pilot and continue shaping ALL IN into a proud new tradition of community philanthropy and connection. Because when we go ALL IN, everyone wins. Winter 2026 | 13

ALUMNI NEWS

Jim Mountain ’66, pictured here with wife, Toni, received the Oregon State Bar Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his contribution to appellate law in Oregon on behalf of the OSB Appellate Practice Section. Jim previously served as Oregon’s Solicitor General and Deputy Attorney General.

Two-time Olympic medalist Galen Rupp ’04 was inducted into the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame at the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts on November 6, 2025. Also inducted as the newest class of Oregon Sports Hall of Famers were Jerry Allen, Susie Grimes, and Laurie Milligan, along with the 2015 MLS Cup Champion Portland Timbers.

Members of the Class of 1976 volunteered their time during our annual Week of Giving, sporting their “Sensational ‘76ers” hats. Pictured above left to right: Phil Moran, Matt Cassidy, Marty Klinkhammer, Joe Hudson, and Tim Sheahan.

Katie Wartell ’08 married Gabe Haymond on October 11, 2025 at Lakeside Gardens in Portland, Oregon.

Vicki Harms ’84 and her son Max Okazaki ’16 recently completed a route of the Camino de Santiago, walking from Vigo, Spain, to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. They covered more than 80 miles on foot and traveled an additional 17 miles by boat, concluding their pilgrimage at the shrine of Saint James. 14 | Central Catholic Magazine

Akylah McNack ’24 and Hunter Baldridge ’17 are bringing Ram pride to the Hill. McNack, a sophomore at Marquette University, and Baldridge, an MPA (Master of Public Administration) student at American University, are interning in Senator Ron Wyden's D.C. offices.

ALUMNI NEWS • IN MEMORY In Memory • Alumni

2025 Women’s Wine Tour This fall's tour marked the twenty-seventh year of this tradition, bringing together alums, current and past parents, and friends of the Central Catholic community for an afternoon rooted in connection. Held in October, the tour featured stops at ENSO Winery and Amaterra Winery. For nearly three decades, the Women’s Wine Tour has created space for women across generations to gather, reconnect, and welcome new members into the fold. While venues may change from year to year, the heart of the event remains the same: strengthening relationships and celebrating the shared experience of being part of the Central Catholic community. This wine tour served as a reminder that the tradition endures not because of location, but because of the people who continue to show up, invest in one another, and carry it forward.

In Memory • Family of Alumni

What’s new with you MATTERS to the Ramily. Were you recently promoted or started a new job? Newly married or recently added to your family? Started a new educational or life journey? Let your fellow Rams know what is happening in your life. Submit a class note to: cchsrams.pub/alumninews

ALUMNI PROFILE

Joe Etzel ’56:

A Life of Leadership, Faith, and Lasting Impact Joe Etzel ’56 passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 87. For Central Catholic, the University of Portland (UP), and the wider Portland community, Joe’s life stands as a powerful example of steady leadership, service to others, and an enduring belief in the value of education and athletics. Born to Al and Audrey Etzel, Joe attended St. Patrick’s and Blessed Sacrament for grade school. Much of his childhood was spent on neighborhood fields at Wallace Park and Vaughn Street Park, where his love for baseball took shape. He attended Columbia Prep High School before enrolling at Central Catholic, where he served as a class officer while also playing basketball and baseball, pitching for the Rams as well as playing left field. Joe went on to the University of Portland in 1956, quickly distinguishing himself as one of the finest pitchers in school history. A standout two-sport student-athlete, he lettered four years in baseball and one year in basketball, leading the Pilots to NCAA playoff appearances in 1957 and 1958. He still ranks among the program’s all-time leaders in several pitching categories, including career winning percentage (.741) and earned run average (2.45). While at UP, Joe met his future wife, Judy Kehoe. They married in 1962 and shared more than 60 years together. Joe earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Portland and was later awarded an honorary doctorate in public service. After college, Joe returned to Central Catholic, where he served for five years as head baseball coach and a member of the faculty. Those years marked the beginning of his professional life as an educator and mentor, shaping young people through discipline, faith, and athletics. His time back on campus as a coach remains an important chapter in his legacy as an alum who gave back to Central Catholic in meaningful ways. In 1965, Joe returned to the University of Portland to lead the baseball program. Over 21 seasons as head coach, he guided the Pilots to 378 victories and helped elevate the program’s profile. Joe’s influence expanded dramatically in 1970 when he was appointed Athletic Director. At the time, the University of Portland sponsored just five men’s teams and employed three coaches. Over the next 34 years, Joe oversaw extraordinary growth, guiding Portland Athletics to 16 men’s and women’s varsity programs competing at the NCAA Division I level and bringing the university into the West Coast Conference beginning in 1976. Joe also reshaped the physical footprint of athletics on campus. Under his leadership, the university built the Earle A. and Virginia H. Chiles Center, the Louisiana-Pacific Tennis Center, Harry A. Merlo Field, and Pilot Stadium. When the Chiles Center opened in 1984, it became not only the home of UP Athletics but also a vital community gathering space, hosting concerts, speakers, graduations, and world leaders. In recognition of his impact, Pilot Stadium was renamed Joe Etzel Field upon his retirement in 2004. When Joe retired, he was the longest-tenured Athletic Director in NCAA Division I in history. His contributions were later recognized through inductions into numerous Halls of Fame, including the University of Portland Athletics, Oregon Sports, and NACDA. He was also awaded the West Coast Conference Hall of Honor, and the Gary Cunningham Lifetime Achievement Award. Even in retirement, Joe never stepped away from teaching and coaching. He continued to work clinics, give private pitching lessons, and spent two especially meaningful years coaching his grandsons in youth baseball. Joe was preceeded in death by his wife Judy. He is survived by their son: Jim Etzel ’81 and brother: Mike Etzel ’60. Joe Etzel leaves behind a legacy defined not simply by wins, championships, or buildings, but by the people he shaped along the way. For Central Catholic, he stands as a lasting example of what it means to lead with integrity, humility, and a lifelong commitment to service—values that continue to define the Ram community. 16 | Central Catholic Magazine

THE CENTRAL CATHOLIC DEPARTMENT OF THEATER PROUDLY PRESENTS

April 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 • 7:00 p.m. April 19, 26 • 2:00 p.m. Matinee Tickets and Information: cchsrams.pub/springmusical

Central Catholic

Non-profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Portland, OR Permit No. 441

HIGH SCHOOL

2401 Southeast Stark Street • Portland, Oregon 97214

March 5

Central State of Mind

Mother Son Brunch

Upcoming Events April

First Thursday 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Christ the King Chapel

23-27 Spring Break

Holy Thursday

Palm Sunday

Stations of the Cross 10:00 a.m.

Good Friday No School

Easter Sunday

Easter Monday No School for Students

Missy Mack ’88 Memorial Gym

Easter Season Mass

Pickleball Open 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Central Catholic Gyms

For athletic schedules, visit: cchsrams.pub/athletics For the most up-to-date information on events visit: cchsrams.pub/calendar

Crowning of Mary Mother Daughter Brunch

Alumni and Student Affinity Luncheon: Celebrating our Asian, Desi, and Pacific Islander Community

Thirty-First Presidents’ Dinner and Auction LIGHT THE WAY 5:00 p.m. AVENUE Portland

June

May

Missy Mack ’88 Memorial Gym

Senior and Family Luncheon After Mass Cafeterias

First Thursday Holy Hour and Adoration 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Christ the King Chapel

Spring Concert

End of the Year Mass 10:00 a.m. Missy Mack ’88 Memorial Gym

No School for Students

Memorial Day Holiday No School

Open Mic Night 7:00 p.m. Weston Commons

17-26 Spring Musical Production Anything Goes April 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 7:00 p.m., PAC April 19, 26 2:00 p.m. Matinee, PAC

Baccalaureate Mass 10:00 a.m.

Senior Awards Ceremony 1:00 p.m. Missy Mack ’88 Memorial Gym

Commencement 7:00 p.m. Hillsboro Stadium

Sneak Peek for the Class of 2030

Restaurant Nights* Big’s Chicken March 12, 2026

Hot Lips Pizza on Hawthorne April 14, 2026 Noho’s Hawaiian Cafe May 28, 2026 * Restaurant Nights are fundraisers where local restaurants donate a percentage of the sales from that day to Central Catholic High School.

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