magazine
GONZAGA
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• T H E J E S U I T H I G H SC H O O L IN TH E N ATIO N ’S C A P ITA L •
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Over the summer, Gonzaga replaced Buchanan Field’s artificial turf and track. The new field hosted its first home games in early September. To read more about the renovation, turn to page 11. And to see another angle of the new purple track, turn to page 18.
GONZAGA’S MISSION A Catholic, Jesuit high school founded in the nation’s capital in 1821, Gonzaga prepares young men for college success and for lives marked by integrity, purpose, and an enduring commitment to service and justice. Gonzaga develops in our students a love of learning, strength of character, an awareness of their gifts and talents, and an understanding of how deeply and personally they are loved by God.
PRESIDENT Rev. Joseph E. Lingan, S.J. ’75
CHAIR OF THE GONZAGA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Scott M. McCaleb ’84
CHIEF OPER ATING OFFICER Stephen M. Neill ’89
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ALUMNI & ADVANCEMENT David Dugan ’98
HEADM ASTER Dr. Thomas K. Every II
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Byron Harper ’84
Gonzaga Magazine, the official magazine of Gonzaga College High School, is published by the Gonzaga Office of Marketing and Communications.
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EDITOR Mary Clare Glover
WRITER AND ASSISTANT EDITOR Annie Rosello
DESIGNER Renee Spencer
CONTRIBUTORS John Heetderks Peter Kentz ’12 Conrad Singh ’00
PHOTOGR APHY Shelly Farace Renee Spencer James Kegley Jessica Taglieri Conrad Singh ’00 Matt Taglieri ’04
INQUIRIES Please send comments, suggestions, corrections, and changes of address to info@Gonzaga.org
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IN THIS ISSUE
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FEATURES 20
Forever Grateful Named for John B. “Jack” Barnes ’43, Gonzaga’s Barnes Award honors a young alumnus who gave his life in World War II and left behind a beautiful farewell letter to his parents. Decades later, Jack’s final words offer a powerful reminder of what it means to live with selflessness and character.
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Why Study…Science Longtime Science Teacher Mr. John Heetderks reflects on why building cardboard gliders, embracing failed experiments, and getting your hands dirty in the lab helps students accept and learn from the unknown.
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Commencement On Sunday, May 31, Gonzaga congratulated and celebrated its newest alumni, the Class of 2026.
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Never Count an Eagle Out Unveiled just before graduation, a new statue on Eye Street turns an iconic 2018 comeback victory into an enduring lesson in grit for future generations.
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DEPARTMENTS 4
Message from the President
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The Good News from 19 Eye Street
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Eye on Eye Street
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Reunions
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Alumni News and Notes
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May They Rest in Peace
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Gonzaga Community, Welcome to the Fall 2026 issue of Gonzaga Magazine. Across these pages, we share stories of character, perseverance, friendship, and discovery that span generations of Eye Street history. I hope you will take the time to read our special feature, “Forever Grateful,” (page 20), a tribute to John B. Barnes, Jr. ’43, who was killed in action in Germany during World War II. Every year in the Charter Day program, we reprint a beautiful letter that Jack wrote to his parents from Germany, reflecting on his deep gratitude for his family and his faith as he faced the uncertainties of war. Jack’s words serve as the inspiration behind the Barnes Award, presented annually to students who embody that same selfless character. In our story, you can read the letter in full, as well as new research into Jack’s life and final days in Europe. Jack’s story is a profound reminder of what it means to live out the values of faith, service, and integrity that we strive to embody on Eye Street.
In this issue, we also highlight a new addition to campus. In “Never Count an Eagle Out” (page 29), you can read about The Rising Eagle, a bronze statue commemorating Gonzaga’s iconic 2018 come-frombehind football championship. Spearheaded by Mark Matan ’84, sculptor Brendan O’Neill ’60, and Michael Bratti ’84, the monument captures an eagle breaking free from surrounding rock—a physical reminder for students to stay in the fight, support one another, and never give up. We also continue our faculty essay series with “Why Study... Science” on page 24, written by longtime teacher Mr. John Heetderks. Drawing on his own days as a student under a Jesuit mentor—and his 20-plus years of watching Gonzaga students launch cardboard gliders and navigate titration labs—Mr. Heetderks reflects on how science teaches young men to embrace trial-and-error, accept the unknown, and find wonder in the messy beauty of God’s creation. Throughout the rest of these pages, you will find snapshots of life on Eye Street: highlights from Commencement for the Class of 2026, snapshots of the newly renovated Buchanan Field, moments captured during an early morning photography field trip to the cherry blossoms in peak bloom, recaps from class reunions, and introductions of new Trustees who have stepped forward to help steward our mission into the future. Whether through historic letters, new monuments, or daily discoveries in the classroom, the story of Gonzaga is one of growth held steady by timeless values. Thank you for your continued support, your prayers, and your commitment to bringing our mission to life every day. With every best wish,
Rev. Joseph E. Lingan, S.J. ’75 President
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THE GOOD NEWS FROM 19 EYE STREET
WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS
As we embark on the 2026-2027 school year, Gonzaga is grateful for the counsel and support of the following new members of the Board of Trustees.
PATRICK NOLAN, S.J. is a Jesuit priest who serves as the Provincial Assistant and Director of Vocations for the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus. A familiar face on Eye Street, Fr. Nolan previously served as Gonzaga’s Director of Campus Ministry and Ignatian Identity, accompanying students in their faith formation, retreats, and spiritual life. In his current role with the Jesuits, he guides young men discerning a call to religious life, directs retreats, and fosters young adult ministry across the East Coast. With extensive experience in Jesuit secondary education, including prior service at Boston College High School, Fr. Nolan brings to the Board a deep commitment to the Catholic and Jesuit mission of forming young people for lives of faith and service.
JOHN SCHMIDTLEIN ’84 is Co-Chair of the Antitrust practice group at Williams & Connolly LLP in Washington, D.C., where he has represented corporate clients and executives in civil and criminal litigation for nearly three decades. A nationally recognized antitrust litigator, John has served as lead trial counsel in major federal and state actions and has taught as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University Law Center and George Washington University Law School. After graduating from Gonzaga in 1984, he earned his A.B. from Brown University and his J.D., magna cum laude, from Georgetown Law. John is a native Washingtonian whose legal expertise and long-standing commitment to the Gonzaga community will greatly benefit the Board of Trustees.
SHERYL WILBON (P’26) is an attorney and community leader who brings extensive experience in non-profit advocacy, education, and volunteer leadership to Gonzaga’s Board of Trustees. A graduate of the University of Virginia and Duke University School of Law, Sheryl previously worked in public relations before turning her focus to philanthropic work, civic initiatives, and supporting educational institutions in the D.C. area. Sheryl and her husband, ESPN commentator Michael Wilbon, are the parents of Matthew, a member of the Class of 2026. Her personal insight as an Eye Street parent, combined with her professional and board experience, makes her a valuable asset to the Gonzaga community.
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Mother-Son Mass and Celebration March 8, 2026 Early March brought another memorable Mother-Son Mass and Celebration to Gonzaga. Mothers and sons gathered in St. Aloysius Church for Mass before heading to the Carmody Center for brunch and the morning’s program.
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EVENTS
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Performing Arts Hall of Fame March 14, 2026
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The Gonzaga Alumni Association celebrated the artistic accomplishments of our school and alumni by inducting several new members into its Performing Arts Hall of Fame in March. Congratulations to this year’s inductees: the late James Carrington ’67, Brendan Gray ’93, Kevin Mann ’94, Mark Noone ’73, the late Tim Rose ’58, Kevin de Souza ’04, and the 1982 production of On The Town.
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1. From left to right: Mark Noone ’73, Reggie Wills ’85 representing On the Town, Kevin Mann ’94, Father Lingan, Rae C. Wright (widow of Jimmy Carrington ’67), Brendan Gray ’93, and Kevin de Souza ’04. 2. Inductee Kevin Mann ’94, who works as a film and television producer. 3. From left to right: Stuart Hunt ’75, Graham Hunt ’84, and Reggie Wills ’85 4. Kevin de Souza ’04 (left) and Paul Buckley ’86 5. Meghan Goldsmith, Producer of the Gonzaga Dramatic Association, and Jim Flanagan ’04 6. The cast and crew of the 1982 production of On the Town take the stage during the induction ceremony.
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THE GOOD NEWS FROM 19 EYE STREET
St. Aloysius Mass and Dinner April 19, 2026 A special event held on Gonzaga’s campus in the spring, the Saint Aloysius Mass and Dinner is an opportunity for the school to thank our most generous benefactors. It’s also the occasion when Gonzaga presents its Saint Aloysius Medal, our highest honor, to several community members.
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1. Father Lingan (far left) with the 2026 Saint Aloysius Medal recipients (left to right): Mark H. Tuohey, III, former Gonzaga Board Member, Gonzaga parent and grandparent; Monsignor Raymond G. East, retiring pastor of St. Teresa of Avila in Southeast, DC; Sister Mary Berchmans Hannan, VHM, former longtime Head of School at Georgetown Visitation; and Helen Free and Douglas J. Free ’72, longtime devoted faculty members and Gonzaga parents. 2. David Dugan ’98, Gonzaga’s Senior Vice President of Alumni and Advancement, and Sister Mary Berchmans Hannan. 3. Tuohey family members bringing up the gifts at Mass from left to right: Devin ’97, Anna, and Joe ’26. 4. Guests enjoyed cocktails in the courtyard after Mass. 5. Helen Free (left) and Kristin Allen. 6. Gonzaga staff members and Visitation alumnae with Sister Berchmans from left to right: Jennifer Doherty, Meaghan Tracey, Maureen McLaughlin, Mary Clare Glover, Caitlin Farley, and Maddie Davin. 7. Monsignor East listens as his medal citation is read during dinner.
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EVENTS
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Athletic Hall of Fame April 25, 2026 The Joe Kozik Gonzaga Athletic Hall of Fame pays tribute to Gonzaga’s rich athletic legacy by recognizing outstanding contributions made by athletes, coaches, administrators, and teams. This year, the Gonzaga Alumni Association was excited to induct seven new members: the late Paul Reuben Underwood ’69, Tommy Hunter ’73, Danny Leonard ’83, Doug Dutch ’04, Brian Shea ’06, Billy Ledder ’10, and the three-peat Rugby National Championship teams from 2014, 2015, and 2016.
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1. From left to right: Rugby Head Coach Peter Baggetta, Brian Shea ’06, Billy Ledder ’10, Rene Underwood (widow of late Paul Reuben Underwood ’69), Father Joe Lingan, SJ ’75, Danny Leonard ’83, Doug Dutch ’04, and Tommy Hunter ’73. 2. Tommy Hunter enjoys the reception in the Arrupe Commons before the ceremony. 3. Classmate Carey Johnson, Jr. ’69 shared words of remembrance to honor Paul Reuben Underwood. 4. Doug Dutch ’04 heads to the podium in Sheehy Theater. 5. Danny Leonard ’83 with his grandsons (both proudly wearing his #10 jersey) in front of Our Lady’s Chapel. 6. Billy Ledder ’10 accepting his plaque from Father Lingan. 7. A future Gonzaga Rugby Eagle looks on during the reception as his Dad proudly wears his jacket from his glory days on Eye Street.
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Father Son Communion Breakfast April 26, 2026 In April, hundreds of Gonzaga fathers, current students, and incoming families gathered for the Father-Son Communion Breakfast. Celebrating its 78th year, the cherished tradition began with Mass at St. Aloysius Church, followed by brunch and a special program at the nearby Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill.
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1. The Gonzaga Fathers Club was honored to have ESPN commentator and Gonzaga parent Michael Wilbon (pictured center) serve as the event’s guest speaker. 2., 3. Fathers and sons on the walk from Gonzaga to the Hyatt. 4. Fathers and sons fill the pews in Saint Aloysius Church. 5. Pat Kimener ’76 was named Alumni Man of the Year. 6. Guests enjoying breakfast before the program begins. 7. Michael Curtin ’82 was recognized with the Father Novotny Service Award.
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by the numbers
96 Days, 5 18-wheelers, and 1 Purple Track This summer, Gonzaga replaced its track and field, upgrading a surface originally installed during the 2015 parking garage construction. To lead the transformation, Gonzaga partnered with national athletic facility leaders FieldTurf and Beynon Sports. The new turf features FieldTurf’s next-generation tri-layer technology with heavyweight infill designed for elite performance and maximum player safety. Gonzaga joins an exclusive list of programs to have it, including the Carolina Panthers, University of Oregon, University of Michigan, and Northwestern University. “Full disclosure, my son is a studentathlete at Landon,” says John McShane, Regional Sales Rep at FieldTurf, “but I can’t wait for him to play on Gonzaga’s field.” Completing the facility’s dynamic makeover, Beynon Sports surrounded Buchanan Field with the DC area’s first—and only— purple track. “Our goal is to make fast look good,” said Ben Schauf, Operations Manager at Beynon. “It’s definitely gonna run fast, compared to the worn-out track we started with. But it also looks damn good.”
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Days from start to finish.
ALL OF THEM Weekends and holidays worked to get the field and track completed (weather permitting).
3,486 Interlocking 3’ x 5’ drainage and cushioning pads pulled up, shaken, stored, and reinstalled.
“Supersacks” of infill required to be stored on Eye Street before the new field went down.
THE PROJECT BY THE NUMBERS Here is a closer look at what it took to bring the new field and track to life on Eye Street—from extreme summer temperatures to the massive logistics behind the scenes.
500,000 Number of pounds of sand and rubber removed from the field during demolition.
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18-wheelers required to deliver the new field to Gonzaga.
178 F Peak surface temperature in July of the black waterproof coating once the old turf and pads were removed.
Places the concrete base beneath the field had heaved, thanks to the “snowcrete” of February 2026. Number of donors who generously supported the project by donating during the Raise the Paddle portion of last year’s Gala.
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THE GOOD NEWS FROM 19 EYE STREET
Early Birds
GET THE SHOTS
Early on the morning of March 26, nearly 100 students and chaperones made their way to the Tidal Basin to capture the beauty of the Yoshino Cherry trees at peak bloom. Since 2023, the trip has been an annual highlight for all Gonzaga photography students, who receive varied assignments depending on their course level. “All are challenged to work with quickly changing light,” explained Art Department Chair Mrs. Shelly Farace. “When we arrive, it is blue hour or golden hour, then it changes to harsh lighting with shadows.” The beginners apply skills they have learned throughout the year - framing,
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exposure, intentional depth of field and shutter speed control - through a structured project outline. Intermediate students apply those same skills as well as more advanced techniques such as double exposures. They also propose what their approach will be before they set out, perhaps focusing on the people looking at the cherry blossoms or the blooms themselves. Advanced Placement (AP) students face additional challenges, including photographing standout ‘selected works’ for their AP portfolio. The photography teachers enjoy the morning as much as the students do.
“I really like seeing all the students together at the Tidal Basin, and sharing moments across their grade and skill levels and giving each other ideas,” said Art Teacher Mrs. Molly Brehne. “This is one of the first times the beginners will get up to take photos in time for sunrise,” said Mrs. Farace, “and these end up being some of their best and favorite photos of the year. It teaches them that planning in advance and getting up a little early has great benefits to their photographic results. It’s also a great way to see how each student builds upon their previous year’s work.”
Table of Contents Photo Credit: Connor Minear ’28
Photo Credit: Gabriel Galdabini ’27
Photo Credit: Aidan Scott ’27 Photo Credit: Everett Eckart ’26
Photo Credit: Landon Lewis ’28 Photo Credit: Jack Riordan ’28 Photo Credit: Cullen Larrabee ’27
Photo Credit: Peter McCorry ’28
Photo Credit: Colin Loyko ’26
Photo Credit: Gregor Bernhard ’28
THE GOOD NEWS FROM 19 EYE STREET
Hail Gonzaga! Highlights from the winter 2025-2026 season
Basketball Keith Urgo ’97 returned to Eye Street to become Gonzaga Basketball’s new head coach. In his first year, the team won their sixth straight DC Classic, and went undefeated on their winter break trip by beating three top teams from New York. After big wins over Carroll, Good Counsel, Spalding, McNamara, and Ireton in January, the Eagles lost a number of close games down the stretch including a thrilling four overtime contest against O’Connell in the WCAC quarterfinal.
Ice Hockey
Indoor Track
The biggest wins of the season on the ice came at the end of the season. The Eagles defeated Georgetown Prep in the final regular season game and then beat O’Connell and DeMatha to advance to the WCAC Championship. The following week, the team won MAPHL playoff games over Bullis and Landon before falling in the semifinal game. Second year head coach Tony DiCarlo earned WCAC Coach of the Year honors.
Gonzaga finished in second place at the DCSAA Championship for the second year in a row. Senior Anthony Sarro rewrote the record books by claiming new school bests in the 1600, 1 Mile, 3200, and 2 Mile races. Nineteen athletes competed at nationals with our Sprint Medley and 4x400 relays breaking school records at New Balance, and our 4x400 team earning a third place All-American finish at Adidas.
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ATHLETIC NEWS
Squash
Wrestling
Playing their home matches at OneLife Fitness in NW Washington, DC, Gonzaga Squash fought hard all season. The team got a notable win over The Heights in January, 5-2. And the Eagles finished the season with a big win over Wakefield in a closely contested match to avenge a loss to the same team earlier in the year.
The Eye Street wrestlers came in third at WCACs and second at DCSAAs in 2026. The team earned a total of six individual gold medals with Bo Sulc ’26 and Lucian James ’28 winning their weight class at both competitions. At National Preps, Sulc earned Gonzaga’s first All-American finish on the mat since 2018. With a number of key contributors returning, the future continues to look bright for Gonzaga Wrestling.
Senior Signing Day Gonzaga’s annual Signing Day was held on March 25, 2026 in Sheehy Theater. Scan the QR to see where the Class of 2026 Eagles are competing at the next level.
Swim & Dive It was another strong year in the pool for the Eagles with the team amassing a record of 15-1. This year, the team won the DCSAA Championship and came in second in the WCAC and WMPSSDL Championships. The 400yd and 200yd Freestyle Relays earned All-American status while Kirk Morgan ’27 also earned All-American status individually in the 200yd Freestyle and the 100yd Butterfly.
Pictured: Rocco Williams ’26
SCAN TO READ MORE! Congratulations to all!
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Eagles Fly High! Highlights from the spring 2026 season
Fencing Gonzaga fencers finished with a winning record for the third straight year, notching two wins over St. Anselm’s and one over Landon. The win over Landon came down to the wire with the Eagles winning a sudden death tiebreaker to end the season on a high note.
Baseball It was another successful spring on the diamond for the Eagles, highlighted by a 6-0 win over St. John’s and three wins on a spring break trip to New Orleans, Louisiana. The team advanced to the WCAC semifinal series once again by defeating DeMatha 6-4 on the road.
Crew Gonzaga Rowing enjoyed another competitive season on the water. The team had five boats advance to the semifinals at the historic Stotesbury Cup Regatta and two advance at Scholastic Nationals.
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ATHLETIC NEWS
Golf
Lacrosse
Gonzaga Golf is a force year in and year out, and in 2026, the Eagles continued their dominance on the course by capturing a tenth straight WCAC Championship and a third consecutive DCSAA title. Jake Lopes ’27 and Matthew Delpizzo ’26 led the way to both team titles with Lopes winning the individual championship at both competitions.
Each spring, Gonzaga Lacrosse competes against one of the toughest schedules in the nation with the goal of bringing a WCAC title back to Eye Street. This year, the squad won key regular season games against Paul VI and DeMatha to earn a home playoff game. The Eagles advanced to the WCAC Semifinal by beating the Stags in the quarterfinal.
Track & Field
Rugby
Tennis
Gonzaga Rugby notched big wins over Jesuit rivals Georgetown Prep and Xavier (NY) while also competing in New Zealand on Spring Break. The team won the annual Gonzaga Rugby Classic by defeating Fort Hunt. At Nationals, Gonzaga fought hard before falling in the semifinal.
The Eagles battled on the court all season and earned second place in both the WCAC and DCSAA tournaments. Doubles partners Nick Reis ’28 and Reid Salamone ’28 led the way and will look to help the team capture a championship in 2027.
Track finished in second place in the DCSAA Championship with both 4x400 and 4x800 relay teams winning gold. Anthony Sarro ’26, who became the first Gonzaga runner to break 9:00 minutes in the 3200 earlier in the season, won two gold medals at WCACs and earned the meet MVP.
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EYE ON EYE STREET
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Purple Pride Visitors to campus this fall will notice a striking change on Buchanan Field: the familiar red track is now deep purple. This summer’s renovation replaced the well-worn turf and track to better support every aspect of student life. “From early morning workouts to lunchtime games of spikeball to back-toback-to-back evening practices, we use our only field incredibly hard,” says Gonzaga Athletic Director Terry Kernan ’08. It’s a fresh, bold backdrop for a field that remains the hard-working heart of campus.
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Every spring, Gonzaga recognizes students of exceptional honor and humility with the Barnes Award. Named for John B. “Jack” Barnes, Jr. ’43, the award honors a young alumnus who gave his life in World War II and left behind a beautiful farewell letter to his parents. Decades later, Jack’s final words offer a powerful reminder of what it means to live with selflessness and character.
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very year on Charter Day, the Gonzaga community gathers in St. Aloysius Church to recognize the many accomplishments of our students and faculty and celebrate the culmination of another academic year. Toward the end of that ceremony comes a special moment – the bestowal of that year’s Barnes Awards. Given to one student from each homeroom, the award is intended to recognize “students distinguished for honor, humility, reliability and deportment” – character traits epitomized by the award’s namesake, John B. “Jack” Barnes, Jr. of the Gonzaga Class of 1943. Before Gonzaga Headmaster Dr. Tom Every begins to read the names of each
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year’s honorees, he asks everyone to take a look in their program to read a letter written by Jack to his parents just before he was killed in action in World War II. Beautifully written and moving, the Barnes letter (reprinted on the following pages) is a centerpiece of the Charter Day tradition and ceremony. Yet beyond the annual ceremony and the text in the program, few on Eye Street today know the full story of the young man behind the award. “The Barnes Award is one of the most widelyknown awards among the student body, and in over 60 years has been given countless times,” says Dr. Every. “I am really excited to be able to share more of his story so that he – and his fellow Gonzaga alumni who also gave their
lives for our freedom in World War II – will be known by our greater community and remembered today and always.”
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n the early 1940s, as World War II encircled the globe, the Gonzaga community was feeling pressure from all sides. Students tried to focus on their education, sports and the normal activities of youth, while knowing the military draft lay ahead. Jesuits and faculty allowed some rising seniors to receive accelerated instruction six days a week in order to complete their coursework early and earn their diploma before their 18th birthday. Because only about a quarter of Americans held a high school diploma, earning one gave draftees a potential route for Officer Candidate School and preferred non-combat placements. One of many Gonzaga alumni who chose to serve his country at that fraught time in history was John B. “Jack” Barnes, Jr. of the Glover Park neighborhood in Washington, DC. His father John sold used cars at Barnes Motors on 14th Street, and his mother Ruth was a homemaker. His maternal grandmother and younger brother Roger completed the household. At Gonzaga, Jack swam and played tennis and football for the Eagles, and was active in Sodality, Debate and the Chemistry Club. He won numerous academic honors, including awards for Algebra and Physics. His senior yearbook entry read, in part: “Jack’s never failing humor has been one of his outstanding recommendations. Being a better than average fullback and sincere student were his prime accomplishments.” Jack graduated from Gonzaga on Monday, June 14, 1943. He went on to enroll at Georgetown University, where he gained acceptance into the Army Specialized Training Program (ASTP)—a placement likely earned through his strong academic record. According to Lynne O’Hara, Deputy Director of Educational Programs at National History Day, the military created the program to send highachieving recruits to college for specialized training in critical fields like engineering. However, escalating wartime demands forced a sudden shift in strategy. “The Army abruptly ended
the program and sent most of these men into infantry replacement units,” O’Hara said. “They didn’t train as a unit, but instead were dropped in as replacements into established units. You can imagine how that went over with the established unit—they needed the men, but they got ‘college boys’ with minimal infantry training. Many fought in the war’s final campaigns.” Jack enlisted in the Army in November of 1943, and trained at the Virginia Military Institute before being sent overseas to fight in September of 1944. It is unclear which Army division he was assigned to, but he quickly found himself at the front, in the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, the longest battle fought by the US Army in WWII. Through dense and treacherous terrain, the US suffered incredible losses in what was regarded as a brutal campaign and major tactical blunder. One of the thousands of casualties of that battle was 19-year-old Private Jack Barnes, who was struck by artillery fire and killed near Aachen, Germany on November 19, 1944. Initially listed as missing in action, three days later he was re-listed as killed in action. He was buried in Belgium, but in 1947 was returned to his home city of Washington and re-interred with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. Somewhere in Germany, perhaps sensing what lay ahead, Jack penned a remarkable letter to his parents. He sent it to a family friend for safekeeping, to be given to his parents in the event of his death. Just over two months later, the text of the letter was shared with Gonzaga and printed in its entirety in the January 24, 1945 issue of the Gonzaga student newspaper, The Aquilian. The letter now hangs in the Headmaster’s office. While the exact year that Gonzaga first began to award the Barnes medal is difficult to pinpoint, Gonzaga records show it was given as early as 1965. In 1972, during his freshman year on Eye Street, Joe Lingan ’75 was given the Barnes Award. “I was honored to receive an award that commemorates the gratitude of a brave young soldier and I still have it in my office all of these
years later,” says Father Lingan, who now serves as Gonzaga’s President. Decades later, the letter still resonates with him. “When I read it during Charter Day, I am always struck by Jack’s maturity and wisdom. I guess that’s what going to war will do to a 19-year-old. In many ways, it’s a heartbreaking letter, but it’s also inspirational. My hope is that when our young men read his words, they see what real character looks like— gratitude, selflessness, and a deep love for others, even in the midst of war.”
Battle of Hürtgen Forest Gonzaga Alumnus Peter Kentz '12, an amateur WWII historian who received his Masters in War Studies from King's College in London, provided a narrative on the Battle of Hürtgen Forest to accompany this article. Scan the QR code to learn more about the battle, and the context and conditions in which Jack Barnes made the ultimate sacrifice.
Scan the QR code to learn more.
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THE BARNES LETTER Dear Mother & Father, This letter will concern itself with a few of the things I have in mind and which I wish you to know about. Since I possess nothing of really great value I am not concerned with a will or anything of that sort. But what I am concerned with and I must say a little worried about is that great debt which I owe you. You will immediately say, “What debt? He doesn’t owe us anything.” I know you will say that because you are such good people and don’t expect anything in return for all the things you have done for me. But just the same, the fact remains that everything I was, am now, or ever will be is due to your efforts. From my beginning, through all these years, you have been everything a Mother and Father could possibly be and more. That is, besides being parents and son we were more than that, we were “friends” and “pals.” Being a son and daughter yourselves, you realize how much this means. To be able to seek and obtain advice from you as one “grown up” to another is something every son doesn’t enjoy. All those good times we had together will never be forgotten by me. To be on such friendly terms with you was truly a wonderful thing and one of my fondest remembrances. In every direction my childish whims carried me, you were there to guide and direct me and to secure them for me if they were for my good. In your eagerness to make me happy, I was almost spoiled. But always your better judgement came to the front and I was saved this calamity. My education was one of your chief concerns. I was to have a good education whereas you were not so fortunate. Nevertheless, I would consider myself well educated if I learned to be one half as good as you. Your example is indeed a monument to all parents. Never was I misguided by any of your words or actions. But on the contrary I was shown how life could and should be lived. I was so very proud of you in everything that you did.
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I have brought out just a few of the things that you have done for me. To be sure there are many, many more, but I think I have gained my point. I do owe you a debt, one that is not possible to repay. Now I come to the purpose of this letter. With mere words it is an impossible task. Thank you. That’s the word for it. All it takes is one small breath, just two syllables, eight letters of the alphabet. No — that doesn’t even things up at all. It doesn’t even scratch the surface. My gratitude goes much deeper than that. But at the present time with things as they are, it’s my only alternative. There is however another alternative, if God with all his goodness grants me life, through this hellish nightmare, I will strive for the rest of my life to try to partially repay you. I say partially repay you, because to fully repay you as I said before is humanly impossible. But I do not doubt that you will be fully repaid in full, not in this life but in the next. All in all the many blessings which I enjoy from you as my parents, will be repaid to you many fold times from God, the parent of us all. I know it will only be natural for you to grieve my death. But remember there is a far greater life beyond. And I have every reason to believe that with God’s grace I will obtain life everlasting with him and you in heaven. So you see I am not actually afraid of death. I am instructing Mrs. Smith to keep this letter for me and to give it to you only if I am killed or missing. Otherwise I will get it from her myself when I return. I hope you never get to read this letter, but just the same I feel a lot better, knowing you know how I feel. Of course everything I have said pertains to my dearest grandmother as well. I remain always your loving and forever grateful son,
Jack
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WHY STUDY…SCIENCE In every issue of Gonzaga Magazine, we invite a faculty member to reflect on the question: What do today’s students gain from studying your subject? In this installment of Why Study…, longtime Science Teacher Mr. John Heetderks reflects on why building cardboard gliders, embracing failed experiments, and getting your hands dirty in the lab helps students accept and learn from the unknown.
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s my student’s glider tumbled to the floor following an unmajestic two foot flight, he looked at me and drily said, “Well Mr. Heetderks, apparently making an airplane is difficult. Who knew?” Students in my Introduction to Engineering class had been trying to build gliders from cardboard, wood, paper and whatever other materials they could get their hands on. Despite younger days of making paper airplanes, they found this project to be quite tricky, and many mediocre gliders were produced. Despite the challenge, the process was enjoyable, with failure leading to success (or frequently more failure), and a change in a glider resulting in a longer glide being a true cause for
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celebration. In my 20 plus years at Gonzaga I have taught nearly every science course that the school offers, and in all of them I have found the same magic in teaching and learning science: the joy of discovery and the embrace of the unknown. There is a special kind of joy that comes in a science class. The hands-on nature of lab experiments helps students see the “science in action.” It also allows for students to see the messiness of life and the real world and see that experiments often don’t turn out as you expect, or arrive with easy answers. Students have different experiences in the lab. Some get excited when the connection between the classroom and
the lab is made, or for others, when an experiment works successfully. For some, it is just the joy of getting their hands dirty during the school day. Regardless of the course, or the lab, for nearly all the students that I have taught, at some point there is a surrender to the joy of the class and a surrender to a world in which they don’t and can’t know all the answers. In my Engineering class, I have seen 18 year-olds jump around in excitement after they have successfully launched a hot air balloon to the roof of the Collins Rotunda. Any sense of coolness is shed, and they just allow themselves to enjoy the moment. My personal relationship with the joy and mystery of science began in the fall of 1995, as a freshman at Fordham University. Fordham was my first experience with Catholic schools, and really my first experience with the Catholic Church, having grown up in a Protestant church and public schools. I am slightly embarrassed to admit it now, but I was very surprised and somewhat skeptical on the first day of class to find that my Introductory Biology professor was Fr. Martin Hegyi, a Jesuit priest. Expecting a watered down version of Biology with some serious creationism thrown in, I forged ahead. Clearly I didn’t know the Jesuits yet. Over the year, yes, I learned a lot of biology, but more so, I was taken by Fr. Hegyi’s enthusiasm and excitement
FACULTY ESSAY for Biology, which could be seen when he would talk animatedly about certain topics, or that way he would playfully mimic spider mating dances while discussing evolution. His love of the world and of Christ seeped into Fr. Hegyi’s teaching, allowing students to experience the joy of learning science. He also taught us that there were always more mysteries to be researched and new things to learn in a messy, beautiful world. By the end of the year, I decided to become a Biology major. It was that other part of learning science that Fr. Hegyi helped me embrace. The mystery (or perhaps failure) in not having all the answers and messing up, a lot. Happily embracing the error in trial and error. Hands-on
experiments can be the great equalizer in our Gonzaga science courses. The student with the 98% test average is not always the one who does the best in the lab. When you are in the lab, things get messy. Things don’t go according to plan. In Introduction to Engineering, I have seen students spend way too much time trying to formulate a perfect plan, only to put it together and find that they missed a critical piece. Then, they have no time to correct their errors. I have taught many straight A students in AP Chemistry, and rarely are they the best (or even close to best frankly) at titration. Students must swirl a flask while simultaneously adding
controlled drops of another chemical to the flask. The chemistry equivalent of patting your head and rubbing your stomach at the same time. The quality varies dramatically, but even the best of experiments never deliver perfect results. No matter how the experiments result, students always enjoy the process, enjoy the connections and, I hope, embrace the mess and the unknown, questioning why results are never perfect, wondering what could be tested next. In my junior year of college, Fr. Hegyi was a chaperone on a week-long field excursion to Puerto Rico for the lab portion of a Tropical Ecology course that I took. I had not spoken to him much since my freshman year, so it was wonderful for me to remember how much I enjoyed his teaching. He snorkeled coral reefs and trudged through mangrove forests with us, all the time pointing out interesting invertebrates and being excited about nearly everything we saw. Later in the trip, he shared his story of growing up in communist Hungary and the sacrifices he had to make to become a priest. He shared the harrowing tale of escaping to Austria in a boat on the Danube, and laying down in the bottom of the boat as soldiers shot at them near the border, all to follow his calling to be a Jesuit. As he was laying in that boat, I am sure there was fear for his life, but I also imagine he had fear of what was to come, and the unknown of what would happen. As I reflected back on my freshman year skepticism, it now made perfect sense that this priest was my Intro to Biology professor. Scientists might call it trial-and-error. St. Ignatius used the terms consolation and desolation. But who could better illustrate the magic of learning science than someone like Fr. Hegyi, someone who found the joy in creation, the joy in discovery, knew there were always new questions to be answered, but also embraced the unknown, the mess and the mysteries of life.
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FLY HIGH, CLASS OF 2026! On Sunday, May 31, Commencement Exercises were held in St. Aloysius Church for the Class of 2026. For the first time in school history, three graduates were named Valedictorian, each earning the exact same highest possible grade point average. Peter Francese, who is attending Duke University, gave the Valedictory Welcome address. Nicholas Fletcher, who has matriculated at the University of Virginia, gave the Valedictory Commendation. Anthony Sarro attends Johns Hopkins University, where he is a member of the cross country and track teams. In his Valedictory Farewell, Sarro reminded his classmates of the words of their collective mentor, Fr. Harry Geib, S.J. “If we wake up each morning remembering Fr. Geib’s favorite quote, ‘God is crazy about you,’ we may begin to see that God is present… in every ordinary moment.” The annual Kohlmann Address was delivered by Mr. John Ismay ’95, a US Navy veteran and Pulitzer Prize winning journalist. Ismay advised the graduates to “carry forward the charge as you live as men for others as much as you can, in every way that you can.” Several awards voted on by faculty and staff were presented to seniors for leadership, service, and advancement of the ideals of Gonzaga. The ceremony also included recognition of the Jubilarian Class of 1976 who proudly led the procession into St. Al’s, as well as musical performances by the Chamber Choir, Symphonic Band and Chamber Orchestra. The graduates and their families gathered to celebrate on Buchanan Field after the ceremony. Class of 2026 Valedictorians (from left to right) Nicholas Fletcher, Anthony Sarro, and Peter Francese.
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CONGR ATULATIONS AND GOOD LUCK, CLASS OF 2026!
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Where They’ve Landed The Class of 2026 has traveled far and wide to begin new adventures at 86 different colleges and universities across the country and around the world.
American University (2) Arizona State University Auburn University (8) Barry University Boston College (6) Brown University Bucknell University (4) Clemson University (2) College of Charleston (2) College of the Holy Cross (2) Colorado School of Mines (2) Cornell University Dickinson College Duke University (3) Duquesne University Elon University (3) Emory University Fairfield University (4) Furman University (2) George Mason University (2) Georgetown University (5) Georgia Tech Georgian Court University Hamilton College (2) Hampden-Sydney College Hampton University (2) Harvard University High Point University Howard University IE University, Spain Indiana University (Bloomington) (8) James Madison University (2) Johns Hopkins University (2) Lehigh University (2)
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Louisiana State University (2) Loyola University Chicago Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Maryland Marquette University (2) Massachusetts Institute of Technology Michigan State University Middlebury College Morehouse College (2) Mount St. Mary’s University New York University (2) Northeastern University Pellissippi State Community College Penn State University (4) Providence College (3) Purdue University (5) Rutgers University Salisbury University Southern Methodist University St. Joseph’s University St. Mary’s College of Maryland Stanford University Syracuse University (5) Texas A&M University Texas Christian University (3) The New School The Ohio State University Towson University (2) Tulane University (8) Union College United States Coast Guard Academy United States Naval Academy (3) University of Alabama (4) University of Arizona
University of Australia University of California (Berkeley) (2) University of Chicago (3) University of Colorado (Boulder) (4) University of Dayton University of Denver University of Florida University of Maryland (8) University of Miami University of Michigan (2) University of North Carolina (Wilmington) (2) University of Notre Dame (3) University of Pittsburgh University of Rhode Island University of Richmond University of South Carolina University of Tampa (4) University of Tennessee (3) University of the South University of Utah University of Vermont University of Virginia (9) University of Wisconsin (4) Vanguard University Villanova University (3) Virginia Tech (11) Virginia Union University Wake Forest University Washington and Lee University William and Mary (2) Xavier University (2)
Never Count an
Eagle Out
Unveiled just before graduation, a new statue on Eye Street turns an iconic 2018 comeback victory into an enduring lesson in grit for future generations. FALL 2026
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From left to right: Fr. Joseph Lingan S.J., ’75, Mark Matan ’84, Brendan O’Neill ’60, and Michael Bratti ’84.
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n Friday, May 29th, just two days before graduation, the Class of 2026 assembled on Buchanan Field to take their senior photo. Dressed in the traditional white tuxedo jackets, their excitement about the events of the weekend to come was palpable. Unbeknownst to the seniors, a talented and generous group of alumni and friends of Gonzaga had gathered just behind them on Eye Street for the unveiling and dedication of a new bronze statue, called the Rising Eagle. The seniors would be among the first to see it. The statue was created to commemorate a remarkable 2018 athletic achievement and inspire future generations of Gonzaga students. Those who were on the campus of Catholic University on November 18, 2018, for the WCAC championship game against DeMatha will never forget sophomore quarterback Caleb Williams’ 53-yard ‘Hail Mary’ pass to senior wide receiver John Marshall with four seconds left to win the game, 46 to 43. It is the stuff of legends. Mark Matan ’84 was at the game that night, and for years afterward, an idea brewed in his mind to commemorate not only the game, but the grit, poise, and determination it took to pull off that come-from-behind victory. “When Mark first spoke to me about his notion for a statue commemorating this victory,” said Gonzaga President Fr. Joe Lingan, S.J. ’75, “he told me that he wanted something that would
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always remind Gonzaga students not just of this memorable game – but more importantly that it would be a reminder to every Gonzaga student and studentathlete to never count themselves out, to always stay in the fight, and to have confidence in their ability to pick themselves up when the odds are not in their favor.” Working with artist and sculptor Brendan O’Neill ’60, Matan envisioned a monument on campus that students would walk by, touch for good luck, and draw inspiration from. Created by O’Neill, the eagle sits on a base of granite generously donated and installed by Michael Bratti ’84, who owns R. Bratti Associates. “I think it makes the statue all the more meaningful that three alumni came together to donate their time and talents to create it,” says David Dugan ’98, Gonzaga’s Senior Vice President of Alumni and Advancement. “And it also sends a message to our current students: Being a Gonzaga man doesn’t end on Commencement Sunday, it’s lifelong.” The eagle is struggling to break free from a pile of shale rocks that O’Neill says represent obstacles it is trying to overcome. “There’s a lot of symbolism in that obviously,” he says. “Gonzaga being down 20 points at halftime, being down with four seconds left to go, Gonzaga struggles free from difficulty and prevails.” Michael Bratti says that during his time on Eye Street in the 80s, Gonzaga
was often the underdog. “Then to be at that 2018 game, to go from winning to losing to winning to losing to winning was really epic,” he says. “It painted a picture of how up to the last minute you still have an opportunity. You just have to use your head, you have to have the right people around you and believe in each other.” Never was that belief in one another clearer than during the final seconds of the 2018 game. For those who watched the livestream or relived it through highlight reels afterwards, they will undoubtedly remember the line delivered by Ken Meringolo (Bishop McNamara ’94) from 1st Amendment Sports just as quarterback Caleb Williams unleashed his 53-yard pass: “Is God purple? We’re about to find out.”
Matan says that with the statue, he wanted to capture that unifying phrase – God is Purple – and the feeling that all Gonzaga students and alumni know well when Gonzaga teams have won. Much like the iconic ‘Play Like A Champion Today’ sign in Notre Dame Stadium, Matan hopes touching the Rising Eagle statue as you walk by it becomes a tradition at Gonzaga. “When current students or alumni pass that statue, they’re touching it. If you’re having a good day, you put the energy in. If you need some energy out, you grab it.” Several items that commemorate Gonzaga traditions were placed beneath the statue before it was secured to the base: a Bicentennial coin from the school’s 200th anniversary, a Barnes Award, which is given to distinguished students each year, and a cross made of wood from Gonzaga’s campus, similar to those given to seniors at graduation. Before any of those mementos could be sealed into place, however, O’Neill had to actually get the heavy bronze sculpture out of his studio. To do so, he recruited a neighbor - a proud St. John’s grad - to help him carry it to his car. “So he comes over and says, ‘Oh, an eagle. Wow, that’s attractive. Well done.’ As we’re carrying it out to the car, he asked where it was going,” O’Neill recalled with a laugh. “Once we loaded it into the back of my car, I said, ‘You just carried a monument that will rally generations of Gonzaga students and players, who will rub this as they go out on the field against their opponents, including St. John’s.’” After the Class of 2026 took their class photo, they were asked to gather on Eye Street for the dedication ceremony. With just two days left on the clock as Gonzaga students before they moved into the ranks of alumni, they cheered when the Rising Eagle was unveiled. As they passed through the breezeway on their way to the Carmody Center, the seniors eagerly reached out to give the statue a grateful pat, inspired to never give up and thankful for their own experiences on Eye Street.
John Marshall ’19, who made the game-winning catch, returned to Gonzaga for the unveiling (page 29). “The ball seemed like it was guided directly towards me,” he said when he was back on campus. “Almost like it was just Caleb and me out there.”
purple? “ IsWe’reGod about to find out.
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Scan the QR Code to watch a video celebrating the statue’s unveiling.
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Golden Reunions Alumni from the Classes of 1956, 1961, 1966, and 1971 returned to Gonzaga to celebrate their Golden Reunions in March. After Mass in Our Lady’s Chapel, reunion-goers enjoyed brunch in the Arrupe Commons.
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REUNIONS
Jubilarian Reunion
As is Gonzaga tradition, the Class of 1976 returned to campus for a weekend of festivities honoring their 50-year reunion. A highlight included participating in the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2026 on Sunday, May 31. To read more about Commencement, turn to page 26.
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1. The weekend kicked off on Friday night with Father Lingan giving a tour of Saint Aloysius Church and the rest of campus. 2., 3, After the tours, the class enjoyed cocktails and dinner on campus. 4., 5. On Saturday evening, Curtis Ruppert ’76 graciously hosted his classmates at his home. 6. Sunday morning began with a private Mass in Our Lady’s Chapel. 7. The Class of 1976 gathered for a photo on the steps of Dooley Hall. 8. The class stands to be recognized during the graduation ceremony.
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ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES
Alumni News & Notes 1959 Peter Kilcullen and Lionel Banda recently saw one another at the funeral of CDR James O’Neill Carter who passed away peacefully on May 14 in Arlington, VA. Peter’s youngest sister (Kieran) had married one of Jim’s younger brothers (Tom) in 1981. Peter (clarinet) and Lionel (trumpet) played together in the Gonzaga Band for their four years at Gonzaga and had not seen each other in many years. After graduation, Lionel went to the US Naval Academy with Jim, and both served in the Navy. Lionel currently lives in Groton, CT. Peter went on to the University of Virginia for undergraduate and law, and was in the private practice of law (government contracts) in Washington DC for more than 40 years. Peter currently lives in Alexandria, VA.
1969 Dr. Michael Iadarola was presented with the 2026 Pharmacia-ASPET Award for Impact on Pharmacological Treatment of Disease given by the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET). The text of the award announcement, given for ‘extraordinary contributions’ read as follows: “Dr. Iadarola is recognized for his pioneering work developing novel, non-opioid approaches to pain management. His research led to the clinical development of resiniferatoxin, an ultrapotent TRPV1 agonist that selectively targets pain-sensing neurons. This innovative therapy produces longlasting analgesia with a single treatment and has shown promise for patients with severe neuropathic and cancer-related pain. As a Senior Research Scientist at the NIH Clinical Center, Dr. Iadarola has dedicated his career to translating molecular discoveries into meaningful clinical advances. His work represents a major step forward in addressing chronic pain while reducing reliance on opioids.”
Class of 1961 Reunites for 65th In June, nearly two dozen members of the Class of 1961 gathered at the Alexandria, VA home of Jack McKay for a festive reunion after 65 years. Pictured left to right: (kneeling) Jack McKay, Rich Cecchettti, Denny McHugh (seated) Mike Burchick; (first row) Dmitri Zarechnak, Dick Flynn, Jim Koerner, Mike Donovan (slightly behind Koerner), Jude Franklin (slightly behind Lynch), Dent Lynch (hand on Cecchetti’s back), Jim Sheahan, Mike Giuffrida, Mal Luebkert (purple hat/shirt), Dick Deerin, Jack Slocum, Mike Ryan; (back row) Joe Haardt, Jay Oberdorf, John Innocenti, Bob O’Connor, Tom Ruth, Jim Willging; (Not pictured, “showed up late as usual”) Dan Boland.
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In June, Jim Bausell and Wayne Lindsey attended their 50th Dartmouth College reunion in Hanover, NH. While at Gonzaga, the two friends were proud members of the Concert Band. Jim is a retired business executive living in Minneapolis with his wife Pat. Wayne entered the US Army after graduating from Dartmouth Medical School, and practiced orthopaedic surgery in Virginia and Las Cruces, NM. He and his wife Deborah are retired and splitting their time between St. Croix, USVI, and Provo, Utah.
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In June, Dr. Steve Brown published an inspiring memoir, The Complete Square: An Olympian’s Equation for Life. He is an Olympian, educator, leadership strategist, and founder of the Steve Brown Academy, an organization dedicated to developing student-athletes and leaders through academics, athletics, character, and service. Steve competed as a two-sport athlete at Wake Forest University, before pursuing professional football and eventually representing Trinidad and Tobago in the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. Following his athletic career, he has devoted more than two decades to education, coaching, leadership development, and mentorship while earning an MBA from Duke University and a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from the University of Pennsylvania.
2000 On Father’s Day weekend in June, Dr. Joseph Eble was awarded “Father of the Year” for “Excellence in Fatherhood” at the Birthright Living Legacy annual gala. “It was a tremendous honor to be acknowledged in this way by fellow fathers,” he shared. “I am prouder of this recognition than any I have previously received or will receive.” Joseph is a radiologist in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Share Your Alumni News! To have your news included in the next Gonzaga Magazine please email it to info@Gonzaga.org. Don’t forget to include a photo!
“You are a Priest Forever” On Saturday, June 6, Fr. John Pignone, S.J. ’97 was ordained a priest at Fordham University Church, surrounded by friends, family, and members of the Class of 1997. Fr. Pignone is the first Gonzaga alumnus to enter the Society of Jesus in 35 years. One week later, he returned to the Great Church of St. Aloysius to celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving on Father’s Day — fittingly, also the Feast of St. Aloysius Gonzaga. Gonzaga President Fr. Joseph Lingan, S.J. ’75 welcomed him home to Eye Street as hundreds of members of the Gonzaga community gathered to celebrate this joyful milestone for the Church and the Society of Jesus.
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ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES
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Tim Ebner recently co-wrote a cookbook about regional food in America titled Eaterland. Co-authored with others, the book is published by Eater, a digital media brand dedicated to all things food and dining with local flair. Tim’s section covers essential Mid-Atlantic dishes, including a DC half-smoke, Maryland crab soup, and Philly’s roast pork hoagie. In his day job, Tim serves as VP of Communications & Marketing at the Can Manufacturers Institute.
Brian McCarthy currently works at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston. In April, he supported the Artemis II mission, the first crewed mission to the Moon since the 1970s. “I was working on-console in Mission Control at JSC, helping with trajectory calculations from launch through reentry,” he shared. “After finishing my Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering in 2022, I have been working at NASA JSC on mission design for the Artemis program in various capacities. Since Artemis II’s completion, I have been helping lead the team of engineers at NASA on designing the upcoming Artemis III, IV, and V missions. Artemis III is slated for 2027 and will test out the docking systems for the crew capsule and lunar landers. Artemis IV is scheduled for launch in 2028, and will be the first time humans have returned to the lunar surface since 1972.”
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Victor Farr and his wife Giselle are pleased to announce the birth of their son, Sebastian Eduardo Farr, who was born December 18, 2025.
Brendan Gilday and Paige Minturn were married on June 13, 2025 in Delaware. Brendan is a Business Development Manager at Palm Facility Services, and Paige is a Strategy and Operations Associate at VerAleo. Over 40 Gonzaga alumni were in attendance, including every groomsman. Bub Minturn ’11, Rex Minturn ’18, John Ganssle ’12, Parker Minturn ’08, Joey Battista ’11, Paige (bride), Brendan Gilday, Patrick Gilday ’06, Justin Myers ’12, Michael Taglieri ’12, John Derry ’10.
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A Chance Encounter in France ’12
Gonzaga Fine Arts teacher and Director of Bands & Orchestra Dr. Andrew Wood earned a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from George Mason University this spring, with a dissertation focused on performing the music of British composer Edward Gregson. He performs as a soloist, orchestral musician, chamber musician and conductor, and recorded an album this summer with the Cherry Blossom Brass Band.
In May, Michael Tierney ’70 and John Doran ’74 were both crossing one off the “bucket list” by visiting the D-Day landing beaches. Neither knew the other was in the same place, but imagine their surprise as they had a chance encounter at Pointe Du Hoc in Normandy, France, where they met in a German concrete pillbox!
2013 Brendan Glynn and Alexis Mozeleski were married on December 13, 2025, with a number of Gonzaga alumni in attendance. Front Row: Joe Viola ’83, Mike Glynn ’81, Mikey Glynn ’13, Brendan Glynn (groom) ’13, Alexis (bride), Mark Horn ’13, Tim Mulholland ’82; Second Row: Sean Glynn ’82, Peter Buckley ’82, Jim Beckley ’82, John McManus ’82, Mark Giuliani ’82, Grant Russell ’13, Terrence Parks ’13, Brady McGowan ’17, Thomas Pullano ’13.
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Ryan Howell and Alyssa Giarrosso celebrated their wedding on April 25 in Maryland. Pictured left to right: Marc Connell ’13 (groomsman), Mike Howell ’70, Bill Belson ’78, Mike Williams ’83, Drew Williams ’13 (groomsman), Alyssa (bride), Ryan Howell ’13, Mark Howell ’73, Nick Howell ’09, Christian Howell ’94, Christopher Shirron ’13 (co-best man), West Connors ’13 (co-best man), Woods Connell ’16 (groomsman). ’13
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ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES
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In April, P.J. Anderson (second from the right) graduated from TOPGUN. After his graduation from Eye Street, P.J. attended Virginia Tech and became an officer in the Navy aviation program after completing Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI. He finished flight school with postings in Pensacola, FL, Kingsville, TX and Norfolk, VA, and spent three years of his deployment on various carriers, flying F-18, posted in Iwakuni, Japan. P.J. Is currently an instructor at the Navy Fighter Weapons School in Fallon, NV.
Ryan Baker graduated Magna Cum Laude from the American University Washington College of Law in May, and started work at Finnegan, a leading intellectual property law firm in September.
2015 On June 27, Jack Iscaro played for the Barbarian F.C. in a match against Wales in Twickenham, England. Founded in 1890, the Barbarians are an invitation-only touring rugby club with no home stadium, no league, and no regular roster; they select players from all over the globe to come together for single-match showcases against top-tier national teams. “A ‘Baa-Baas call-up’ means you are recognized globally as a player who embodies the traditional spirit of rugby—flair, camaraderie, and a commitment to open, adventurous, attacking play,” said Gonzaga Rugby Head Coach Peter Baggetta. “When an American player gets invited to put on the famous black and white top, it is a statement to the rugby world that their talent is undeniable.”
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Christophe Gerlach is CEO and Co-Founder of Comp, a Brazilian HR tech company that he founded in 2022 with a friend and classmate from Cornell University. “Think of us as a turbocharged Chief of Staff that supports everything from complex organizational decisions to day-to-day operational tasks, delivering in days what used to take months,” he explained in a February 2026 profile in Forbes.
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Fundraising for a Great Cause
the last spot on a highly competitive team under the command of a coach with racist tendencies. During his time at Gonzaga, Jack was a four-year varsity hockey player and got his start making short films for WZAG. He graduated from the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts in 2024, and recently completed his second short film.
In March, five alumni of Gonzaga and Penn State got together at the DC Diamonds Gala, which supports Penn State THON, the world’s largest student-run philanthropy, which is committed to helping conquer childhood cancer. Donations Lead John O’Toole ’19 (center) was joined by Jack Loesch ’19, Declan Dolan ’21, Matt Freeman ’19, and Connor O’Malley ’19.
2019 On June 26, LTJG Joshua Bowman of the United States Navy was awarded his Naval Aviation Wings of Gold after completing Advanced Jet Flight Training with Navy Training Squadron NINE in Meridian, MS. His father and mother pinned on his wings.
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In late May, Griffin Belson was promoted to First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. He is currently stationed at Camp Pendleton in California.
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In January, Los Angeles-based writer and director John “Jack” Martino released his first short film, Shorthanded, on YouTube. The film’s release follows a successful film festival run during 2025 which included official selections at the 25th Beverly Hills Film Festival, the Philadelphia Latino Arts and Film Festival and the New Faces New Voices Film Festival in New York. Shorthanded follows a Hispanic ice hockey player battling through an injury as he tries to secure
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ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES
Eagles Flock to First Baseball Reunion Game In early June, Gonzaga Baseball hosted its first alumni reunion game at Capital One Park in Tysons, VA. More than 50 alumni, family and friends came out for the action-packed midday game, which renewed old friendships, created new ones and drew a lot of laughs and cheers from those assembled. “There is something heavenly about old memories re-surging,” said Jonathan Boyer ’00, an integral member of the 2000 WCAC championship team. “Our first alumni game was a perfect event to bask in the Gonzaga spirit and a testament to the strength of the brotherhood we share, both as men for others and champions in battle!”
Gonzaga. People keep complimenting us parents, but we know where the foundation was poured, Eye Street.”
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In May, James Hrdy graduated magna cum laude with a degree in biomedical engineering from Syracuse University and was commissioned into the United States Air Force as a 2nd Lieutenant. He has been assigned to the 47th Student Squadron at Laughlin AFB where he will train as a pilot.
Alumni Rowers Make Waves
2022 In May, Bobby Dingell was awarded The President’s Medal at his graduation from DeSales University. The award is given to the student who best exemplifies intellectual maturity and personal growth, and whose academic and leadership impact extends far beyond the classroom. The university wrote in a congratulatory post: “A graduate of the Waterbury Reilly School of Business with degrees in Marketing and Data Analytics, Bobby’s time at DeSales was marked by achievement, leadership, and a commitment to excellence in every opportunity.” According to his father Bill, “His spirit of service to others, academic excellence, and spiritual awareness started at
In June, Michael LesStrang ’22 was selected First Team All-American by the Intercollegiate Rowing Coaches Association (IRCA). LesStrang and Kyle McHugh ’24 were also named as IRCA Scholar Athletes. Both alumni rowed last season in the Williams College Varsity 8, which earned bronze medals at the IRA National Championship, National Invitational Rowing Championship (NIRC)/NESCAC Championship, and the New England Championship. ’22
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IN MEMORIAM
Quiet Generosity Leads to Monumental Gift
Ed Laios ’60
Long before he became a real estate investor, Ed Laios ’60 stepped onto Gonzaga’s campus as a freshman in 1956, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Straton ’51. Right from the start, Ed cared deeply about the school—its history, its community, and the very buildings that housed it. A lifelong Washingtonian born and raised in Southeast DC, Ed returned to his alma mater throughout his life, building decades-long friendships with Gonzaga presidents Fr. Dooley, Fr. Novotny, Fr. Planning and Fr. Lingan. He also became a familiar face and reliable presence at every Thanksgiving Smoker and St. Al’s Dinner. To his core, Ed was a very private man who didn’t seek the spotlight, and cared deeply for the places that meant the most to him. “Ed quietly observed Gonzaga’s challenges in the 1970s,
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the tight budgets and the degradation of the physical plant during that era,” said David Dugan ’98, Gonzaga’s Senior Vice President of Alumni and Advancement. “But he drew inspiration from the resurgence in enrollment and sound financial decisions made by Father Dooley during his twenty years of devoted leadership.” As a result, Ed gave consistently to Gonzaga for more than four decades, increasing his gift modestly each year. All along, he had bigger plans and shared with his Jesuit friends and school leaders his intention to someday make a more meaningful impact. Upon his death in January 2026, Ed’s estate fulfilled an initial significant deposit on a long-term gift through a foundation that he had established. Ed passed away knowing that his estate would be valuable to the Gonzaga mission and benefit the school for decades to come. “Ed’s generosity has been designated for future renovations, restoration and potential expansion,” said Dugan. “Gonzaga was blessed to have Edward Laios – an alumnus who cared about the traditions of Eye Street and sought to enhance all facets of the school for future generations.” Fr. Lingan once asked Ed about his favorite memories of his time at Gonzaga. “I loved the Jesuits in my era,” Ed told him, “especially the scholastics. They weren’t much older than I was at that time. They each carried a certain discipline, an
order in their duties which instilled a discipline and responsibility in me that I carried throughout my career. Looking back, Gonzaga was a place filled with inspiration.”
MAY THEY REST IN PEACE James C. Adler ’58, brother of John W. ’54 Judy F. Arendes, wife of the late Vincent F. ’59; daughter-in-law of the late Joseph R. ’29; mother of Michael J. ’85 John A. Barrett, brother of William J. ’52 James F. Begg ’76 Paul J. Caggiano ’54 Arthur F. “Tony” Carroll, III, son of the late Arthur F. 1929; father of Thomas K. ’89; grandfather of William J. ’27; father-in-law of the late C. Theodore Lizas ’83; great-uncle of Raymond J. Dufour ’18 James O. Carter ’59 Tania Chomiak-Salvi, wife of Lucantonio N. Salvi ’86; mother of Stephen M. Salvi ’25 and Paul A. Salvi ’21 William H. Cowardin Sr., father of William H. II ’85; grandfather of William H. III ’18 and Christopher M. ’20; uncle of Robert J. Bolger Jr. ’73; great uncle of Gordon B. Finucan ’21 Jo Ann Devaney, wife of Robert A. ’55; motherin-law of Patrick O’Neil ’85 James P. Dolan ’73, son of the late Michael F. ’39; brother of Michael F. ’77 and Joseph V. ’80 Christopher J. Donatelli ’85, former Gonzaga Trustee, father of Christopher J., Jr. ’20 Michael J. Dunn, father of Michael J. Jr. ’84; grandfather of Eamon M. ’24 James V. Durkin ’66, brother of the late Lawrence Jr. ’63; father of Timothy J. ’94; uncle of Antonio M. Ibanez ’97 and Jose M. Ibanez ’00 William H. Edwards, Jr., father of William H. III ’98 and Brian P. ’03 George J. Ellis, Jr. ’48, son of the late George Ellis 1920 Richard S. Flynn ’46 Durand A. Ford, Jr. ’93, step-father of Brandon Q. Hairston ’12 Mary A. Freburger, mother of William D. ’00 and former faculty member John C. Gartland, father of Charles A. II ’94; grandfather of Charles A. III ’28 Mark J. Gormley ’56, brother of Michael J. ’63, Francis X. ’68, Thomas M. ’71 and Joseph I. ’74; uncle of Christopher LoJacono ’79, Joseph M. Gormley ’99, Matthew C. Gormley ’05, Sean M. LoJacono ’08, and Christopher J. Gormley ’13
Elizabeth Hastings, wife of James J. ’63; sisterin-law of John J. Jr. ’61 and Joseph ’69; aunt of Peter C. ’85, John P. ’95 and Thomas ’96; great aunt of William J. ’24 and Owen J. ’28 Teresita Park Jeansonne, mother of Michael A. Park ’84 Thomas F. Jennings, father of Mark ’97 and Patrick B. ’99 James H. Johnson III, father of James C. ’79, Charles L. ’86 and Matthew T. ’88; grandfather of Owen D. ’18 and Jack H. ’19 Richard L. Johnston, III ’09 Jan M. Kaczmarek ’49 Thomas E. Lynch, Sr. ’49, brother of the late John J. ’47 Bobbie Mack, mother of William H., Jr. ’96
Teresita Dino Pasa, mother of Eduardo R. ’94 A. Raymond Pilkerton, Jr. ’52, father of Arthur R. III ’85 and Christopher M. ’91; grandfather of Julian A. ’24 and Giles E. ’27 Ronald A. Pomykala ’52 John O. Poss ’69 Zoe M. Prask, daughter of Michael H. ’91 Edward M. Quinnan ’53 Richard H. Reed ’54 Paul E. Robertson, father of Douglas P. ’04, Gregory D. ’06 and Fr. Thomas S. ’11 William J. Rodriguez, father of William ’90 Richard A. Scully, father of Andrew J. ’85 and Robert ’90
Margaret Carmody Marcou, daughter of the late John J. Carmody 1919; sister of the late John J. Carmody, Jr ’54 and Kevin W. Carmody ’62; sister-in-law of L. Maurice Rowe III ’57; grandmother of Andrew V. Fertig ’06, Nicholas C. Marcou ’10, Theodore A. Marcou ’12, and Claire R. Marcou ’16; aunt of Charles M. Steele ’77, John Steele ’78, James Steele ’83, John W. Carmody ’82, William J. Carmody ’84, Michael J. Carmody ’85, L. Maurice Rowe IV ’84, and Kevin Rowe ’87
Thomas M. Sherman ’65, father of Kevin T. ’93 and Matthew T. ’95; brother of the late John D. ’57 and Francis X. ’72
Blanche “Chelen” Moore, wife of the late William G., Jr. ’57
Marsha R. Sullivan, mother of Hugh V. ’04
Timothy P. Morahan ’89, father of Brendan T. Morahan ’18; uncle of Edward R. Morahan ’20 Michael P. Mullally, son of the late John J. ’48; nephew of the late James A. Jr. ’52; father of Michael E. ’18; brother-in-law of Thomas H. Riley ’81; uncle of Kevin J. Murray, ’06, Maxwell J. Ernst ’08, Spencer T. Ernst ’08, Kevin M. Riley ’10, Brian T. Murray ’12, Winston E. Ernst ’12, John J. Mullally III ’14, Matthew P. Mullally ’16 and William W. Mullally ’20 Joan G. Nalls, wife of the late James T. Sr. ’44; sister-in-law of J. Willard, Jr. ’42; mother of James T. Jr. ’72, Timothy J. ’74, Patrick W. ’76, Michael J. ’77, Daniel G. ’79, John G. Sr. ’82, Joseph P. ’83 and the late Anthony K. ’75; aunt of Michael T. ’67; grandmother of James T. III, ’98, John G. Jr. ’09, Frank P. ’10, Dennis A. ’12, Matthew A. ’14, Chase A. ’17 and Thomas B. ’18; great-grandmother of Patrick S. Langevin ’18, Peter A. Veith ’21, Michael S. Veith ’22, Brian T. Langevin ’24 and James R. Langevin ’27
Barbara G. Sluby Stewart, mother of Thomas G. Sluby ’80 Rita “Pat” Smith, wife of the late Raymond R. ’54; sister-in-law of Michael J. A. ’64, Robert G. de Andrade ’68 and the late Walter R. Smith ’56; aunt of Colin B. de Andrade ’96
Paul J. Summers, Sr, father of Peter M. ’93 and Paul J. Jr. ’96 Richard C. Tilson ’70 Yvonne Wade, mother of Adolph J. Jr. ’82; aunt of Troy B. ’82 Andrew T. Wainwright ’87 Anne E. White-Olson, mother of Christopher L. Olson ’00 Benjamin Winters, father of David B. Winters ’81 John F. Wolf, Jr. ’59, brother of Charles J., II ’59 and the late Thomas M. ’62; uncle of C.J. Jr. ’88 Robert W. Zimmermann ’47, brother of Emile L. ’45, the late Harry ’39, the late Gordon A. ’41 and the late William E. ’44
Bartley M. O’Hara, father of the late Bartholomew ’92; grandfather of Peter O. Newkirk ’27
Stephen H. Greene, brother of James F. ’58 and Thomas G. ’72; uncle of Brian J. ’90, Trevor M. ’08, Kevin C. ’10 and Sean B. ’12
Michael F. O’Hara ’87
M. Jarrett Haring ’04, brother of J. Michael ’06
Richard H. Reed ’54
Stephen G. O’Neil ’76, brother of Patrick A. ’78
FALL 2026
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