Lamp Post
VOL 101: NO. 2 FALL 2021
Holy Family High School Magazine
HFHS ADMINISTRATION Matt Hauptly Mike D. Gabriel '94 Tricia Darschewski Joseph Galmish '91
Principal Assistant Principal Dean of Students Dean of Students
OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT Eric Nakayama '93 Director Mackenzie Altman '05 Major Gifts Karen Morrow Events Monique Dominquez Alumni Relations COMMUNICATIONS Jeff Beaton BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mr. Matthew Hauptly Mr. Elias Moo Mr. Alex Ariniello Mr. Terry LaVelle Mrs. Ann Marie White Mrs. Jody Harper Alderman Mr. Steven J. Ward Mr. John Napierkowski Father Jason Wallace Mr. Federico Montoya '93
Director
3 Principal's Message 4 Holy Family Hall of Honor 6 Welcome New Faculty/Staff 8 Spirit Week & Homecoming 10 Military Appreciation Night 11 Homecoming Chili Supper 12 State Championships 14 Sports Recap 16 Student Spotlight, Sam Gallagher
Principal, President Superintendent of Catholic Schools Chairperson Vice Chair Treasurer
Notice of Student Non-Discrimination Policy The Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Denver, under the jurisdiction of Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila, S.T.L. and at the direction of the Superintendent, state that all of their Catholic schools admit students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the schools. Furthermore, Archdiocesan schools admit handicapped students in accord with the policy on Admissions in the Archdiocese of Denver Catholic Schools Administrator's Manual. These schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, age, handicap, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of their educational policies, employment practices, scholarship and loan programs, or athletic or other school-administered programs. Assurance Statement of compliance with the purposes of Title IX Education Act The Catholic schools of the Archdiocese, under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop, and at the direction of the Superintendent, attest that none of the Catholic schools discriminates on the basis of sex in its admission policies, its treatment of students or its employment practices.
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In This Issue
17 Student Spotlight, Ethan Ward 18 College Counseling 21 Alumni Spotlight, Alicia (Everson) DeHerrera 23 Tiger Tales 24 Around Campus Editor, Writer: Jeff Beaton Contributors: Jon Yunt Photography: Tamara Van Dale, Greg Stokes, Father Joe Grady, Jeff Beaton
www.holyfamilyhs.com
Lamp Post
VOL 101: NO. 2 FALL 2021
Holy Family High School Magazine
On The Cover: Recent Holy Family graduates proudly represent their college/university. In the last five years, 98% of Holy Family graduates have gone on to attend a 2- or 4-year college or university. Holy Family provides students with outstanding preparation for success in higher education giving students the academic foundation to meet the challenges they will face at some of the nation’s finest universities. It also means supporting students with a personalized process of college advising that helps each find a college or university that represents an excellent personal fit.
Principal's Message Holy Family Community, When I think about Holy Family High School, I am so grateful for our tremendous facilities and resources. However, most importantly, I think about the people. In the 99 years since Holy Family has opened its doors, more than 6,000 students have been educated in our classrooms. Hundreds of passionate teachers have spent countless hours inspiring learning and personal growth. Many coaches have spent long hours working late into the night developing our talented students. Several names stand out in this history, including our colleague, teacher, coach and friend for the past 40 years, Steve Blair. As you may have heard, Mr. Blair was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer which has spread beyond his pancreas and is aggressive. He has started a course of treatment and makes every attempt to visit us at sporting events, but it has been difficult for him. Steve needs your prayers as his prognosis is challenging. This year, our school theme is drawn from Ephesians 4:32. “Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ." At Holy Family every individual soul is of immeasurable value and is our highest priority. Kindness, compassion and forgiveness are at the heart of our community - divisiveness and intolerance are not permitted. “Harmony is not simply the absence of strife - the test of true harmony lies in acceptance of diversity and richness." Holy Family is home to an incredible community of students, faculty, staff, coaches, parents and alumni. The people in the building change, the building itself has changed, but what does not change is Holy Family’s mission to offer a Catholic learning environment that stresses academic excellence, fosters mutual respect, demands responsibility and encourages self-growth. As you will read on the following pages, we have much for which to be proud. Thank you for being a part of the community we hold so dear. May God bless you and Holy Family High School.
Matt Hauptly Principal Holy Family High School
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Hall of Honor 2021 Inductees On June 11, 2021, Holy Family inducted the first class into the new Holy Family High School Hall of Honor. Created as a way of honoring illustrious individuals from our long and rich history, the Hall of Honor recognizes alumni, faculty, staff, as well as friends and benefactors who have achieved a level of excellence in their support of Holy Family. Congratulations to the 2021 Holy Family Hall of Honor Inductees: Sisters of Loretto, Bob & Jean Gryzmala, Sister Aline Daulton, Margie & John Conway, Father Marty Lally and Patty & Mike Gabriel. If you would like to nominate an individual for the Holy Family Hall of Honor visit bit.ly/HFHallofHonor22. Bob & Jean Gryzmala Much of the support Bob and Jean Gryzmala provide Holy Family is often done quietly without much attention or fanfare. But make no mistake, we wouldn’t be the school we are today without their support. Sisters of Loretto In September of 1920 the Sisters of Loretto opened a school near Holy Family parish. The basement auditorium of the fast-growing school was partitioned in 1922 to create a 9th grade classroom. 30 students enrolled, starting what has become Holy Family High School.
Bob served on the Board of Trustees and was instrumental in the planning and construction of Holy Family’s Broomfield campus. Bob and Jean also led the fundraising efforts for the new building. It’s safe to say, their tireless dedication made certain Holy Family continued to thrive in Broomfield.
More than 150 Sisters of Loretto would go on to teach in Holy Family’s grade and high school. From our earliest roots, we have known success and growth only through the combined sacrifices of the many hardworking people, united by our belief in the value of Catholic education. We wouldn’t be here today without the work of the Sisters of Loretto.
Matthew 6:3-4 tells us “when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Members of the Sisters of Loretto and Father Marty Lally.
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Bob and Jean are humble and often inconspicuous as they support Holy Family. We are forever thankful for and appreciative of Bob and Jean.
Principal Matt Hauptly recognizing recipients of the Holy Family High School Hall of Honor on June 11, 2021.
Sister Aline Dalton Sister Aline Dalton was a Sister to be reckoned with and was a positive figure of faith at Holy Family. She knew how to balance a spirit of support and authority, but always sought to do what was best for our students and their families. As a Sister of Loretto, she was committed to improving the conditions of those who suffer from injustice, oppression and deprivation of dignity. Through the scholarship fund she started in 1995, Sister Aline Dalton showed a form of mercy that has remained at the heart of the Holy Family community. Margie & John Conway Margie (’50) and John (’49) have been life-long supporters of Holy Family and Catholic education. During their high school years at Holy Family, they fell in love and were married at Holy Family Church. Their dedication and support of Holy Family continued throughout their marriage and they sent all six of their children to Holy Family. Volunteering at Holy Family functions kept them both busy. John loved announcing at football, basketball and volleyball games. Margie enjoyed selling game tickets and helping at the concessions stand and also volunteered in the school cafeteria. Giving back to Holy Family was always a priority for them and we are thankful for their tireless dedication. To nominate an individual for the Holy Family Hall of Honor visit bit.ly/HFHallofHonor22
Father Marty Lally Father Lally (’68) is a second-generation Holy Family graduate. His parents both graduated from Holy Family Grade School and Holy Family High School. He attended the University of Northern Colorado before entering St. Thomas Seminary in Denver and was ordained a priest in 1978. Father Lally recently retired from Holy Family Parish and has said that his vocation was born at Holy Family High School. He has been actively involved in our school community for decades. Patty & Mike Gabriel Patty (’70) and Mike (’70) have demonstrated their passion for Holy Family High School through their time, talent, and treasure. They have been faithful stewards of Holy Family and have dedicated their lives as alumni, parents, administrators and grandparents. Patty did just about everything at Holy Family. Although her title was Director of Alumni Relations, she was truly a motherly figure at the school. She is now watching over us from heaven and is dearly missed. Mike served twice as interim principal, was the Dean of Students, Athletic Director, a teacher, Football Coach, Baseball Coach, Wrestling Coach and even served one year as the Cheerleading Coach. We are extremely grateful for and forever indebted to the Gabriel’s for all they have contributed to Holy Family over the years. Their name has become synonymous with Holy Family High School.
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Welcome New Faculty & Staff
Angela Smith (Speech & Debate) earned her B.F.A. from Webster University’s Conservatory of Theater Arts and comes to us from Resurrection Christian School where she served as the Chair of the Fine Arts Dept., Speech and Debate Head Coach and taught Speech Communication. She was a 2020 Boettcher Scholarship Teacher Award Winner and was the 2017 Colorado Teacher of the Year for Speech and Debate. Her teams won five Colorado State Championships and were six-time National Tournament Qualifiers.
Patricia Marchesi (English) received her Ph.D. in English Literature and her M.A. in German Literature from the University of Colorado, an M.A. in English Literature from the University of Delaware, and her B.A. in English from Hamilton College. She comes to us from LaGrange College where she was an Assistant Professor of English. She is an award-winning author who has published several young adult science-fiction/fantasy books that have earned distinction by Children’s Literary Classics Awards.
Jacob Pride (English) earned his Ph.D. in English from the University of Denver, M.A. in English from Georgia Southern University, B.A. in English & Philosophy from Ave Maria University and studied Theology at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary as a seminarian of the Diocese of Savannah, GA. He most recently taught English at Arapahoe Community College and prior to moving to Colorado he taught Theology and College English at St. Francis Xavier School in Manhattan, KS.
Mackenzie Altman (Major Gifts Officer) comes to us from the University of Colorado Athletics Department where she spent the last seven years rising through the ranks of the Buff Club – the fundraising arm of CU Athletics. In her time at CU, Mackenzie was responsible for securing high profile transformational gifts, student-athlete scholarships and legacy endowments. Mackenzie is a 2005 graduate of Holy Family.
Taylor Spurgeon (Math) returns to Holy Family after taking time away for the birth of twins. Taylor, a 2011 graduate of Holy Family, earned her B.A. in Economics from Colorado School of Mines while on a basketball scholarship. Prior to starting her family, Taylor taught in the Mathematics Department at Holy Family for two years.
Robert Palumbo (Engineering, Robotics) earned his M.Ed. and MSCIS from Colorado State University, and a MSCS from the University of Nebraska Omaha. He comes to us most recently from Frederick High School where he taught Computer Science. Prior to his teaching career, he held engineering positions with the State of Colorado and Qualcomm.
Rich Everett (History) comes to us after spending six years of government work in Washington D.C. and his native New Jersey. He has experience working on Capitol Hill and in the State House in Trenton. Most recently he taught U.S. History and English as a long-term sub at Hamilton High School East in Hamilton, NJ. He earned his B.A., Political Science, from Rider University and is set to earn his MBA from the University of Denver this spring.
Karen Waples (Government, Politics) received her J.D. degree from the University of Colorado and earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Denver. She is returning to Holy Family to teach AP Comparative Government and Politics, AP US Government and CP American Government in the Social Studies Department after a year in a consulting role. Prior to teaching at Holy Family she taught at Cherry Creek High School.
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Jenna Mauck (English) is a Fulbright Scholar who earned her M.A., English, from State University of New York (SUNY) at Binghamton. She earned her B.A., English and Art History, and her B.A., Honors in English Studies, as a Mandela Rhodes Scholar from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. She comes to us from Grace College Hinton (High School) in KwaZulu-Nata where she taught English.
Waylon Duncan (Theology) received his M.A. in Theology and his B.A. in Philosophy from Gannon University in Erie, PA. He has an extensive background in the French, Latin and Greek languages and started his career as a Seminarian at the Diocese of Buffalo and comes to us most recently from Cathedral Preparatory School in the Diocese of Erie where he served as a Theology teacher.
Marilyn Looker (Spanish) received her B.A. in Theology from Franciscan University and achieved C1 Advanced Spanish Proficiency from the AIL Spanish Language School, in Madrid, Spain. She taught Theology at Holy Family this past spring and came to us from St. Mary's Catholic High School in Phoenix, Arizona, where she taught Theology. Prior to that, she was the Campus Ministry assistant and taught Theology at Xavier College Preparatory in Phoenix where she was a nominee for Teacher of the Year in Arizona.
Sister Mary Rose Lieb, O.S.F., (Math) returns to Holy Family where she served as Principal from 1990-2008. In those years she doubled enrollment and led the move to our current Broomfield campus. She earned her M.S. in Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame, a M.S. in Education Administration and Supervision from Samford University and her B.S. in Mathematics from Ohio Dominican University. She most recently served as Principal of St. Francis De Sales Catholic STEM school in Denver.
Myrna Remington (Social Studies) is returning to Holy Family where she taught Social Studies from 2018-2020. Prior to her coming to Holy Family she taught at Yuma High School and University High School. She is a graduate of the University of Northern Colorado and worked for the Greeley Police Department before her career in teaching.
Hannah Disberger (History) received her B.A. in History from Colorado State University. She has taught at Arvada West High School and was a substitute teacher at Holy Family before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. She comes to us from Fort Morgan High School where she taught American History and served as a girls basketball coach.
James Colley (Spanish) earned his M.A. in Foreign Languages, Spanish Teaching, from the University of Northern Colorado and his B.A. in Spanish from Fort Lewis College. He comes to us from Bishop Machebeuf High School where he taught Spanish. Prior to his time at Bishop Machebeuf he taught Spanish at Broomfield High School.
Frank Ybarra (Math) earned his B.A. in Mathematics Secondary Education from Metro State University and his M.A. in Mathematics Curriculum & Instruction from University of Colorado at Denver. He comes to Holy Family from the Adams 12 School District where he taught math for 29 years – most recently at Horizon High School. He also served as Horizon’s head football coach for 17 years.
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Spirit Week & Homecoming While we have a host of activities associated with Homecoming Week, the Friday night football game has traditionally been one of the highlights for our students. Unfortunately, Holy Family’s football opponent forfeited the contest 48 hours before the game. Our community quickly came together and hosted a girls powderpuff football 3-game tournament under the Friday night lights instead. The play on the field did not disappoint - the senior girls narrowly defeated the sophomores to take the title. The presentation of the Homecoming Court took place at the first all-school pep rally in over two years. Congratulations to our Homecoming King and Queen, Seniors Cruz Keefner and Kaley Anderson. The Pep Rally also saw the Freshmen class win the tug-of-war and included performances by Holy Family’s cheer club and newly formed poms dance team. It was a memorable week in the 100-year history of Holy Family High School.
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CONGRATULATIONS! Cruz Keefner & Kaley Anderson 2021 HFHS Homecoming King & Queen
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Military & First Responders Appreciation Night Shortly after the 20-year anniversary of the September 11th attacks on our country, Holy Family was blessed to honor 35 current and former First Responders and members of the Military at the annual Military & First Responders Appreciation Night. Holy Family awards the Freedom Scholarship, a one-half tuition scholarship, to an incoming freshmen student whose parent or legal guardian is a Police Officer, Firefighter, First Responder, Active Military or Military Veteran. Funding for this scholarship comes solely from dollars raised from Military & First Responders Appreciation Night. Thank you to everyone who participated in this memorable night.
If you would like to contribute to the Freedom Scholarship, contact Holy Family's Advancement Department.
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Homecoming Chili Supper Holy Family’s Homecoming Purple & Gold Chili Supper was back in-person on Friday, October 1, 2021. The soldout event featured chili, salad and cinnamon rolls. Thank you to all the families and alumni who participated in this great Holy Family tradition.
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Congratulations State Champions Class 4A State Girls Soccer State Champions The No. 12 seed Holy Family girls soccer team defeated three consecutive undefeated teams on their way to the state title, going through No. 4 Windsor, No. 1 Northridge and No. 2 Evergreen. Not bad for a No. 12 seed. Speaking of the number 12, that’s how many seconds were on the clock in the championship game when Gianna Sandoval scored the game winning goal, lifting Holy Family to its first-ever Class 4A Girls Soccer State Championship.
Gianna Sandoval reacts after scoring the game winning goal with 12 seconds to play in the state championship game.
The Holy Family girls soccer team hoists the trophy after beating Evergreen for the 4A State Championship.
Holy Family celebrates after their championship win over the Evergreen Cougars.
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Class 4A Individual Girls State Golf Champion – Jessica Mason Holy Family’s Jessica Mason posted a sensational opening round score of 3-under 69 at the Class 4A State Golf Tournament and followed it up with a 1-under par round of 71 en route to a 10-shot victory to claim the Class 4A Individual Girls State Golf Championship.
Jessica Mason in the final round of the 4A Girls Golf State Championships on June 22, 2021
Class 3A 300-meter Hurdles State Champion – Skylar Hawk After an incredible season that saw her break school records in the 100 (12.65 seconds), 200 (25.59) and 300 hurdles (44.70), Holy Family’s Skylar Hawk won the 300-meter hurdles State Championship with a time of 46.05 on Saturday, June 26. Skylar competed in the 100, 200, 400 and 300 hurdles. Skylar Hawk competing in the Class 3A 300meter hurdles at Jeffco Stadium.
Class 3A Shotput State Champion – Brody Welch
Skylar Hawk competing in the Class 3A 300-meter hurdles at Jeffco Stadium.
Brody Welch became the first Holy Family thrower to ever crack the 50-foot mark in the shotput with his state championship throw of 50 feet-4.5 inches. Brody Welch stands atop the podium as the Class 3A Shotput State Champion.
Brody Welch launches the schoolrecord throw of 50 feet-4.5 inches.
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Fall Athletics Recap Baseball
Track & Field
There were high expectations for the Tigers baseball team in 2021. After all, the team had three Division I signees – Izaak Siefken (Illinois), Blake Hammond (Santa Clara) and Connor Cooney (Holy Cross) - and a roster of underclassmen with talent.
Keep your eyes on this program moving forward. Head coach Nick Harris has done great things with the Tigers and the proof could be seen in what they accomplished at the Class 3A state meet in June. Both the boys and girls program feature a quality mix of distance runners, lightning speed from the sprinters and strength in the field events.
The Tigers breezed through the regular season at 15-1 and earned the No. 4 seed in the Class 4A regional tournament before advancing to the double elimination state tournament in Pueblo.
The Tigers rolled to wins on Day 1, scoring 12 runs in each of their first two games. After coming up short against Ponderosa in their third game of the tournament, the Tigers defeated Cheyenne Mountain and made their way to a championship series rematch against Ponderosa, needing to beat the Mustangs twice to win the state title. Holy Family won the first game 10-4 but Ponderosa had just a little more in the tank down the stretch and pulled away for an 11-2 win in state title game. The post season awards rolled in for the Tigers. Siefken was named a First Team All-State selection by CHSAA and was named the BoCoPreps Player of the Year. He was joined on the all-area team by Jared Delgado, Cooney, Hammond and John Ray as the Coach of the Year. FALL 2021 | 14
On the boys side, the quartet of Pierce Kunz, Grayson Arnold, Dom Neely and Grayson Arnold blazed their way to a second place finish in the 4x200 and with Connor Byrne replacing Kunz as the leadoff, the Tigers finished fourth in the 4x100. Senior thrower Brody Welch flirted all season with the 48-year school shotput record and finally beat in the league championship meet. He one-upped himself at the state meet, becoming the first Tigers thrower to ever crack the 50foot mark, with his state championship throw of 50 feet-4.5 inches.
On the girls side, the foursome of Evie Boyd, Moriah Montoya, Alyssa Jany, Maddie Tapp, placed eighth in the 4x800 relay and the 4x200 the team of Bella Rossi, Tapp, Kate Villalobos, Lizzbeth Villalobos finished third in a time of 1:48.32. Sprinter Skylar Hawk made the finals in the 100, 200, 400 as well as the 300-meter hurdles. She finished fifth in the 100 (12.67 seconds), third in the 200 (25.97) and seventh in the 400 (58.08). The junior shined in the 300-meter hurdles with a 46.05 run that landed her on top of the podium as a state champion.
Girls Tennis
Holy Family had three doubles teams in the hunt for a state titles on the second day of the state tournament in Colorado Springs: Sadie Bren and Sarah Stonehocker at No. 2, Audrey Brower and Clara Meisner at No. 3, and Ava Silverstein and Avery Alderman at No. 4. Bren and Stonehocker at No. 2 and Brower and Meisner at No. 3 each won their opening sets on Day 2 and had their eyes on the championship finals. But only Bren and Stonehocker were able to build on their first set momentum and advanced to the No. 2 doubles state title match where they came up just short and settled for a 2nd place state finish.
The future is certainly bright for the Tigers and coach Brittany Storgaard. Six of the seven players that played on Day 2 of state were underclassmen and freshman No. 3 singles player Laura Baker also made the state quarterfinals.
Girls Soccer The Tigers entered the Class 4A state tournament as the No. 12-seed after rolling through the regular season 9-1.
However, with just 12 seconds left, enter Gianna Sandoval. The junior intercepted a failed clearing attempt and with her powerful right foot delivered a perfectly placed shot over the goalie’s head from 25 yards out sending the crowd and the Holy Family bench into a frenzy and the Evergreen players to their knees in disbelief. The heroics delivered the Holy Family girls soccer program their first-ever Class 4A State Championship. Junior goalie Olivia Dietrich was named the Class 4A Player of the Year by CHSAA and was joined on the first team by defender Kacy Clements and Giron. The postseason accolades rolled in from BoCo as Dietrich and defender Sarah Uhler earned first team honors there.
Their state run began at No. 5 Thompson Valley where the Tigers blanked the Eagles 3-0 to advance to the quarterfinals against unbeaten rival Windsor. Lauren Clingman's direct free kick in overtime will live on in Holy Family lore as her perfectly placed bender in the top corner beat the Wizards goalie. Windsor was the first undefeated team the Tigers would take out. Next up in the semifinals they would face No. 1 and undefeated Northridge. After a scoreless first half, Jaelon Giron broke the ice with a goal in the 62nd minute that proved to be the difference and would send the Tigers to their first-ever state title game in Colorado Springs. There they faced unbeaten No. 2 Evergreen and as time ticked down in the second half the two teams were tied at 1-1 and seemed destined for overtime.
Girls Golf Holy Family’s Jessica Mason stepped out in a big way last spring. She won all but one tournament she played in, helped the Tigers to a regional title and then won Class 4A individual state title by a remarkable 10 shots.
Boys Lacrosse
One year after making the playoffs in its inaugural season, the Holy Family boys lacrosse team got a rude awakening in year number two. The Tigers struggled to get things going and finished with a 2-8 record. There were some bright spots for the Tigers, who return three of their top goal scorers: junior Nate Mundt (18), freshman Landon Peters (8) and junior Dalton Lane (7).
Girls Lacrosse It was a tale of two seasons for first-year coach Sarah Brown and her young Tigers. Holy Family started on a five-game losing streak and flipped the switch in the second half to win their last four games. Holy Family will be in good shape going into the 2022 season. Fifty-five of the team's 117 goals in 2021 were scored by freshman Julia Hodell. Her sister Anna added 27 and junior Sidney Edmonds had 17.
Mason, who has committed to continue her golfing career collegiately at California's Pomona-Pitzer College, joins her Tigers teammates in 2022 looking to make a run. The foursome of Mason, Ansley Schnelle, Madison Rooney and Leisel Heitz won the regional tournament and finished fifth at state. FALL 2021 | 15
Student Spotlight Sam Gallagher
'23
It is a tradition that started with his father, moved on to his older brother David and now to Sam – who has quite literally taken the bull by the horns and plans to take his rodeo career even farther than he could have imagined when he started as a third grader. “My dad would team rope all the time and he wanted us to grow up as cowboys,” said Sam, whose latest title came as the Colorado High School Rodeo Association Steer Wrestling champion.
He was also the 2019 Colorado Junior Rodeo Association’s Chute Dogging champion and posted victories in both CJHSRA as a Tie Down Roper and Steer Wrestler. He has always had that competitive itch and there were no shortages of adrenaline rushes. “It’s pretty powerful,” he said. “I’ve just adapted and I’m not scared anymore when I go out there. It’s just another run.” As he looks ahead to college, there are programs throughout the country that have his attention, including the University of Oklahoma as well as the University of Wyoming – where his brother David is currently a freshman on the Cowboys’ rodeo team. “I want to go to college and compete in rodeo,” he said. “I would also like to try pro rodeo and see how far that takes me.”
Sam’s list of accomplishments is already long and will only continue to grow as he gets older. This year, his career best steer wrestling time of 3.4 seconds ranks him 5th best in the world. He was able to qualify for the National High School Finals Rodeo Championship in Lincoln, Nebraska, where he competed against the best rodeo athletes from the United States, Australia, Mexico and Canada. FALL 2021 | 16
Student Spotlight Ethan Ward
'24
Holy Family Sophomore Ethan Ward had no way of knowing that watching a few videos of baker Yolanda Gampp on YouTube would lead him on a new path: baking entrepreneur.
“I just watched her and fell in love with what she would create,” he said. “When I was an 8th grader, I used her recipe to bake my dad’s birthday cake. It took me an entire day to get it right, but it turned out great and started me on this journey.” At first, Ward took orders from mainly family and friends, but after they started promoting him on their social media accounts and talking him up to their friends, he began receiving orders for graduation parties, birthdays, even weddings and his business EJ Bakes was born. “I really do cherish and appreciate that people come to me to help them celebrate,” he said. “I even had the opportunity to bake Christmas cookies for the student body of Our Lady of Fatima school, it was fun.”
Managing a small business along with the demands of a rigorous Holy Family education has some challenges, but Ward takes it all in stride. “There have been times when I was up until 3:00 a.m. decorating cakes or cookies, but I do this because I love it and it is what I’m passionate about,” he said. “I stay organized and have a tight schedule most days. I try to not overload myself, ultimately I love baking and decorating so it helps relax me instead of adding stress.” For the sophomore, it’s almost as much a creative outlet as it is a business pursuit. “I love the creative freedom I have while I am baking and making amazing things,” he said. “I also enjoy baking for friends and family because it is often a surprise and I love to see their reactions. Moments like that, where food and happiness come together, are what I want to give my customers.”
EJ Bakes may have started on a whim, but Ward said he’s thinking about the business long-term. “I would really like to go to a culinary school in France. I would also love to go to college and get a business degree and open my own bakery,” he said. Ward’s eyes light up when he talks about his chocolate cake and his “to die for” carrot cake. His baking repertoire also includes a variety of stylish cookies and cupcakes. “Holy Family has helped me get out of my comfort zone while giving me confidence,” he added. As his confidence grows, his business is sure to match. Connect with EJ Bakes Instagram: @official_ej_bakes Facebook: EJBakes Email: officialejbakes@gmail.com FALL 2021 | 17
College Counseling How do Holy Family students choose the right college? Is there really a college for everyone? How do they start applying to and selecting a college? Holy Family’s College Counselors work to provide support – as co-strategists, sounding boards and mentors. Holy Family’s College Counseling Office is an extension of our education program. Three full-time college counselors – Jacqueline Phillips, Will Wilson and Kelly Fabian - are in constant contact with colleges and universities across the country to remain alert to the issues and trends facing our students, leveraging their expertise and professional relationships to provide strong advice while they support each student in their college search. But before Holy Family students begin thinking about college, they are encouraged to invest in their high school lives. “Ultimately, they will be better college candidates if they have sharpened their talents and discover their passions, academic or otherwise, along the way,” said Mrs. Phillips, the Chairperson of Holy Family’s College Counseling Office. “College is a match to be made, not a prize to be won.” During their freshman year students are first introduced to their dedicated college counselor. In the fall semester of their junior year students begin to work closely with them from researching schools to campus visits and interviews, discerning potential areas of study and finalizing applications. Mrs. Phillips supports students' last names A-G, Mrs. Fabian H-N, Mr. Wilson O-Z. While Holy Family students have access to the collective expertise of the FALL 2021 | 18
Students are encouraged to think of the college application journey as another academic class, one that will take time and energy. The first and most important step for a student is to decide what is important to them – academically, socially and culturally – in a school. There are over 4,200 colleges and universities in the United Sates – and, like the students that attend them, they are all different. They are private and public, large and small, located in cities and small towns.
Baylor University's Admissions Rep Jan Kyster presents to Holy Family students.
full college counseling staff, the individual college counselor serves as the students’ chief advocate and advisor in the college process. Colleges make admission decisions on a wide range of factors, some of which are beyond a student’s control. College admissions offices see thousands of qualified applicants but can only admit a finite number. What each Holy Family student can do is control the body of work they develop during their time at Holy Family, ultimately using their college applications to tell their personal story. “The best way to build a story that resonates with colleges is by immersing yourself in what interests you both in and out of Holy Family life and pursuing those interests,” said Mrs. Fabian. “Colleges want their students to be successful, socially and academically. Students should consider where they would be happy on a typical Tuesday afternoon.”
Holy Family's College Counseling team: Jacqueline Phillips, Will Wilson and Kelly Fabian.
There is no ‘one and only’ college for each student. College Counselors encourage students to explore a variety of options, as they will find that each one has its own advantages. “Understanding there is not a perfect college also makes the application process more exciting,” said Mrs. Fabian. “If a student narrows their sights to only one college, they spend too much time worrying about gaining admission
to that particular school – keeping them from seriously considering other colleges and universities.” “One of the most important parts of the college search is the campus visit,” said Mrs. Phillips. “Visiting colleges gives kids a firsthand impression of the students, faculty, staff, facilities, and programs. A website or brochure can only show you so much. To get a feel for the school, a student needs to walk the campus.” Parents can help their student set goals and help identify any parameters with the college search (financial, geographic, etc.). Parents can also help facilitate visits to a variety of campuses. There are no magical formulas for getting into college. The best way for a student to prepare for college is to work to the best of their ability and build a strong academic record in high school.
“A student’s admission to a college usually depends most on them being a good student in challenging classes,” said Mrs. Phillips. “The closer they get to doing their best in every class, every day, the more choices they’ll have when it comes time to pick a college – keeping your options open is what being ready for college is all about.” Students are encouraged to explore and develop their interests in and out of the classroom. By developing good study and personal habits, students begin to understand their strengths and weaknesses. “Colleges want to see students challenge themselves with classes,” said Mr. Wilson, who is in his 24th year as a college counselor. “With each passing grade year, classes should reflect increased rigor. Success in tough high school classes can indicate success at the university level.”
Many colleges still require standardized test scores. Holy Family students take the PSAT and PreACT during their freshmen and sophomore years. The results of these serve as an indicator of how a student may do on their SAT or ACT and help identify weaknesses that can be addressed through test prep. Students have a range of test prep options. From an abundance of free test prep courses to formal courses offered by outside companies. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of
Students gathered for a visit from the University of Wyoming.
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College Counseling students at most colleges across the country. Phillips, Wilson and Fabian spend a considerable amount of time advising families about financial aid and merit scholarships. Holy Family’s recent graduating Class of 2021 earned over $14 million in scholarships and awards. This college search takes a lot of planning and decision-making. It is normal for students to feel uncertain, overwhelmed, and perhaps even helpless. But, by using the College Counseling team as an aid, students will find the college admission process to be a time of discovery rather than one filled with uncertainty.
Class of 2019 graduates representing their college choices. Left to right: Emma Garrett, Kody Clements, Abby Stokes, Sophie Silverstein, Nicolette Sandoval, Ceili Opp
spring and summer breaks to prepare for standardized tests.
student and their potential at their institution.
“The pandemic has slightly changed the application,” said Mr. Wilson “Colleges that are making standardized test results as an option are seeing an increase in the number of applications.”
Holy Family students are also encouraged to take advantage of the summer months to get a leg up on the college admissions process.
In the absence of SAT scores, some universities are focusing on student essays and letters of recommendation and looking for character strengths. Recommendations from teachers and college counselors help college admission officers learn about a prospective student in a way that test scores and grades do not offer. Most colleges have a set of required materials that are used to evaluate a student’s application and make admission decisions. Colleges want to learn as much as they can about each FALL 2021 | 20
“This experience is a rite of passage that pushes you to reflect on your experiences, your character, your strengths and weaknesses, and your goals,” said Mrs. Phillips. “Students will have input from many well-meaning people including parents, relatives, friends, and admissions officers. But the student is the one going to college. They ultimately need to make the decision for them. We are here for support.”
“What students do during their summer break can distinguish them from other applicants of similar academic caliber,” said Mrs. Fabian. “Whether they complete a community service project, get a job or internship, take a course, or go to a camp, summer is a great time to explore interests.” College costs have risen sharply in recent decades at public and private schools alike. However, Holy Family’s College Counselors recommend students shouldn’t cross a college off their list because of its price tag. Financial assistance is available for qualified
Holy Family Junior Olivia Bertagnoli at the University of Missouri's visit.
Alumni Spotlight
Alicia (Everson) DeHerrera
'13
When many people think of a school nurse, they imagine a person who hands out Band-Aids, ice packs and aspirin. There is certainly some of that, but the reality is that today’s school nurses play a critical role in addressing the physical, mental and emotional health needs of students. Amid the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic Holy Family hired a full-time school nurse. It was something that had never been done in the 100-year history of the school and lucky for us, she is no stranger to the Holy Family community. “I am so grateful that God led me back to Holy Family. I always wanted to work in a place where I could practice my faith through my nursing profession. It’s amazing,” said Alicia (Everson) DeHerrera, a 2013 graduate and Holy Family’s first-ever full-time school nurse. In addition to providing typical daily care, she monitors students with special health care needs such as asthma, allergies, diabetes and forms of epilepsy. She also spends considerable time with students on everything from healthy eating discussions to their mental health. “I want students to realize that I’m not only here to help them when they are sick or hurt, but to also give them a safe place where they can express themselves and feel appreciated,” she said. “We have an amazing team of counselors, teachers, administrators and staff who all work together in different ways to care for each student: physically, mentally and spiritually.”
Working at the school where she once walked the halls as a student has taken some getting use to. “It’s surreal to see some of my old classmates now teaching in the classrooms we once learned in, or having my former teachers come in to ask me a health-related question after all the years of me as the one with the questions,” she said. Holy Family certainly has always held a special place in her heart as it was in the Holy Family art room where she unknowingly first met her future husband, Jared DeHerrera. They quickly became good friends and began dating soon thereafter. “Sometimes I still can’t believe he’s that same guy, and I’m that same girl, but it’s pretty cool to have most of the same memories, experiences and friendships from high school,” she said. If fact, on their wedding day, Alicia and Jared made certain they stopped by Holy Family for some unique and memorable pictures.
“I’d give anything to go back to standing in the student section and cheering on our Tigers. Whether it was a Friday night football game, or the basketball state championship game, that is when we all came together, no matter our differences and we were always one team on those nights,” she said. As her family can attest, Alicia didn’t become a nurse, she was born a nurse. After graduating from Holy Family, she went on to receive her Nursing degree from Regis University and began her career in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Children's Hospital Colorado. She then transitioned to school nursing and began serving elementary, middle and high schools in the Denver Public School system before the opportunity at Holy Family came in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed the role of a school nurse. “School nurses have always FALL 2021 | 21
Alumni Spotlight aimed to promote cleanliness, prevent infection spread, and keep kids healthy so they can stay in school,” she said. “With COVID, the importance and concern for physical health was heightened. In addition, the effects that COVID has had on mental health also showed to be critical. Meaningful, important experiences were missed, causing significant anxiety and fear within our world that negatively affected mental health in some way or another. We are so fortunate that our school community and leaders have worked so hard to keep our students safe and healthy while also keeping school in-person in the most normal way possible.” While some things have changed physically at Holy Family since her time as a student, some things haven’t changed a bit. “I still get the same welcoming feeling when I walk through the doors,” she said. “Teachers and staff here genuinely care about each student, their education and their success.”
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Of all the teachers she had at Holy Family who made the largest impact on her? “All my teachers were truly one-of-a-kind and made a difference in both my education and my life. If I had to pick just one, Mr. Good was not only passionate about what he was teaching you, he also really genuinely cared about you as a person,” she said. “It was easy to stay engaged during his classes due to his interactive teaching style, occasional jokes, and real-life leadership.” The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that high schools aim to have one school nurse for every 750 students. We are extremely fortunate that the “one” we have at Holy Family is living out her dream job in a school she adores and in a school community she cares so much about.
Tiger Tales Tiger Weddings
Tiger News & Notes
Kendall Barnes '12 married Garrett Pashak on August 14, 2021.
Cullen Kafka, the son of Holy Family alumnus Dana Kafka ’79, was drafted in the 9th round of the 2021 MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies. Cullen played his high school ball at De La Salle in Concord, California and collegiately at the University of Oregon where he earned his degree in business and economics.
Taylor Johnson '15 married Averie Mansfield on September 19, 2021 in Thornton.
Kyle Spengler '12 married Erica Warish on July 24, 2021 at the Manor House in Littleton.
Dominic Pena '12 married Leticia Cordeiro on October 9, 2021 in Buena Vista.
Hayley Crossman Cleveland, MD, '09 married Joseph Cleveland, MD, at Carmel Mission Basilica in Carmel by the Sea, CA on September 25, 2021.
Congratulations to seniors Luke Hixson, Alejandra Rodriguez, and Jose Gonzalez, Holy Family's 2022 National Merit Commended Students!
Tell Us Your Tiger Tale!
Calling All Alumni: Send us your news (with photos, if possible) about weddings, births, new jobs, promotions, retirements, and awards – or whatever you’re celebrating – so we can share your accomplishments with our community! If you have moved, please let us know so we can update our records. Please send information one of these 2 ways:
Email: Monique.Dominguez@holyfamilyhs.com Phone:303.410.1411, ext. 130 Alumni, find us on:
HolyFamilyHSAlumni
Holy Family High School FALL 2021 | 23
Around Campus
Long time Holy Family teacher, coach, mentor and friend Steve Blair was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He visited campus for a varsity volleyball game and was presented with a Healing Quilt made by Holy Family parent Melissa Salman and signed by faculty, staff and students.
Marking their last first day of school at Holy Family, a group of seniors met for Senior Sunrise in the early morning hours of August 16, 2021 at Mike G. Gabriel Stadium.
Prior to the start of the school year, freshmen students learn the ins and outs of their daily schedule, find their lockers, and pose for school pictures during Freshmen Orientation. Welcome Class of 2025.
SPRING FALL 2021 2020 | 24 | 24
Holy Family’s unique Shadow Day program returned this school year. The program allows prospective students to spend a day with a current Holy Family student.
This school year, Holy Family is offering a "Jr. Band" program where students in grades 5-8 have the opportunity to practice at Holy Family on Thursday evenings during the school year.
Denver’s 9News Prep Sports Reporter Scotty Gange visited Holy Family’s first home football game as the Tigers vs. Roosevelt game was voted the 9News Game of the Week. He was live for three segments on the evening news from Holy Family’s Back-to-School Bash and also fired the traditional post touchdown cannon.
SPRING FALL 2020 2021 | 25
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Holy Family High School HOLY FAMILY HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2017 Annika Achziger Sydney Alderfer Hannah Bach Anna Bakiera Lisa Banda Sarah Barlow Andrew Barrett Christopher Beatty Willow Belenski Nathan Boselli Lindsey Bovine Mitchell Brinton Ryan Brisnehan Brian Burch Andrew Callaway Emily Campbell Zachary Canaday Katelyn Caviness Estrella Chaffin William Chambers Oriana Chavez Raul Chavez Eric Chiusolo Courtney Christenson Colton Clingman Taryn Cook Tucker Corah Jonathan Coufal Jean-Paul Dalton Zachary Dietrich Cory Dillon Angelina Dinsmore Melanie Doty Sophia Duong Enzo Elliott Philip Elliott
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