The Counselor Magazine | 2025

COUNSELOR The

OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL HIGH SCHOOL A Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School OLGCHS.org : 2025

Welcoming Our Next Principal

EDWARD OWUSU ’89

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Falcons to Follow: Talia Skyles ’17, book illustrator

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Distinguished Alumnus

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Lost History of Wheaton

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Alumni in the Arts

Ten Years of the PAC

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FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

DEAR FELLOW FALCONS, “In today's world, In this issue of the Counselor, among the loving good many things, we’ll say “Goodbye” to a person—even Good Counsel legend, teacher and mentor alone—can make Richie Seel, and “Welcome Home” to our next principal, a difference.” Edward Owusu ’89. You will read about the inspiring focus of our Mission and Identity office, led by Limnyuy Konglim ’01, and reminisce about stories from the Wheaton campus. Don’t forget about our Falcons to Follow section, detailing the incredible work of seven of our outstanding alumni. During the 2025-26 school year, we will celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Performing Arts Center (PAC). On page 25, hear how the PAC has become a signature space for our community. Make plans to come back to campus and enjoy many upcoming performances (see page 27). We hope to see you there! We are grateful to have connected with so many of you on campus or at one of our many events throughout this year. Be sure to read our Events Recap on page 42 and Save the Date for this year’s events (see page 44).

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It’s an honor to continue working alongside our alumni community as we shape a brighter future together. Whether through mentorship, networking, or simply staying connected, our shared commitment has the power to inspire meaningful impact and lasting change. Remember, "In today's world, the loving good person—even alone— can make a difference.” Thank you for your continued support and engagement. I look forward to staying in touch and celebrating all that we’ll achieve together in the years ahead.

Sincerely,

Catie Brown ’13 Director of Alumni Engagement

A publication of OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL HIGH SCHOOL A Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School

CONTENTS

17301 Old Vic Boulevard, Olney, MD 20832 240.283.3200 | olgchs.org PRESIDENT John Ciccone PRINCIPAL Edward Owusu ’89 2025-2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR | William Riley, Jr. ’68 Hollie Bodiford-Taylor Scott Casavant Patrick Caulfield Trista Colbert Dr. Nancy DeNicola Claire Wheeler Desmond ’07 Denny Goforth Pat Howley ’87 Consuelo Kendall ’99 Margaret Kim Leah Kramer ’90 Terry Martin ’80 Larry McAfee Dr. Matthew McCormack ’89 Dan Murphy ’84 Rebecca Neff Robert Ramin Michelle Rubie-Smith Maggie Lynch Selwood ’01 Rob Smith, Jr. Craig Vincent ’12 EDITOR Jane Bornhorst GRAPHIC DESIGN Lori Fields PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTOR Joey Cabigas ’82

40 16 FEATURES

SPECIAL

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17 Spotlight

ADVANCEMENT OFFICE: Chief Advancement Officer Julie Potter Executive Director of Advancement Jessica Laird Director of Alumni Engagement Catie Brown ’13 Director of Annual Giving Jane Bornhorst Director of Advancement Services Karin Boteler MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE: Chief Communications and Enrollment Management Officer Cheryl Plainte Director of Creative Strategies Erica Tituana Assistant Director of Digital Media Paul Kennedy Submit comments, contributions and address updates to cbrown@olgchs.org.

A Conversation with GC's Next Principal

Edward Owusu ’89

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Distinguished Alumnus Spotlight

GC icon Rich Seel retired from teaching

20 GC By the Numbers 22 Mission & Identity Proclaiming good work

Chuck Morton ’83

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Falcons to Follow

Alumni making their mark

16 Great Aspirations

Brother Mark Award winner Eddie Battista ’25 plans for a great future

18 Lost History of Wheaton Memories of GC's original campus

24 Celebrating Ten Years of the Performing Arts Center A decade of inspiring creativity

40 Black Alumni

A new GC alumni affinity group

ADVANCEMENT 28 31 42 45

Community Partners Class Notes Events Recap In Memoriam

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FEATURE

A Conversation with

EDWARD OWUSU ’89 Good Counsel’s Next Principal

For the 2025-26 school year, Our Lady of Good Counsel High School welcomes its next principal, Edward Owusu ’89. Previously, Edward served as Executive Director of the Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals, and on the Board of Governors for the Grace Episcopal Day School. Owusu was the Micro-Credential Assessor for the School Improvement Leadership Academy, Mira Education, and Center for Educational Innovation and Improvement at the University of Maryland, College Park. His prior leadership and instructional experience includes serving as a principal for 15 years at multiple schools, most recently at Clarksburg High School.

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FEATURE

First you have to be genuinely good; do things to enhance who you are as an individual and externally do things for others, to help those who may be struggling.

GC: How does it feel to return to Good Counsel as principal? EDWARD OWUSU: It’s a warm feeling to be back in a place that was formative for me and my classmates. It is a very humbling experience being able to come back. I feel blessed to be able to step into the role of principal knowing all of the principals who came before me.

What have you learned in your years serving as a high school principal that will inform your approach at GC? What do you foresee focusing on that will be a change from your past roles? What I've learned in my years as being a principal is essentially every parent, every guardian wants the best for their child. Every faculty member wants to do their very best for the students. Essentially adults desire the best for the child, and I always keep that in mind. For students, they all have to follow their path in their own ways and time. Some want guidance, some want to have a productive struggle. Some want a role model to show them how things can be done. Others may not want to listen to parents or a faculty member but normally, all of the students in these groups want to succeed. They just have to do it in their own way and time.

What are your impressions of GC’s school community in 2025, based on the time you have spent here over the past few months?

get locked into a path when they start as freshmen. There are many pathways to being successful, and we’re going to support the students in that.

The school has definitely changed from when I attended in the 80s. And although it has changed in some ways, it is still that caring community I remember. After conversing with parents, faculty, and students, I recognize their desire for Good Counsel to remain strong and to build on its foundations and its values, and I see that the community is hungry for growth. It could be technological growth, more STEM or infusion of the IB Program in the curriculum space. I see a longing for spreading those falcon wings even farther to become better.

It is also my intention to get to know the students. I have come from schools with 2,600 students, so I’m used to being involved with a large community. The goal is to get to know the students and the families, and to provide strong foundational pathways for students to be successful. I will work with counseling, athletics, with faculty, staff, and administrators, to help them be successful, to give students opportunities to expand their horizons.

The foundational piece I’ve heard loud and clear is that our community wants to continue living the values and faith that the Xaverian Brothers highlight. The spiritual and the curricular halves of a Good Counsel educational experience are woven together.

There is always a learning curve in a new position. What will your focus be during your first year as principal? Being a principal of an independent school is going to be a learning curve. Leaders of other independent schools have reached out to congratulate and welcome me. I’m looking forward to learning more about the community and to hearing about expectations, and matching those with my experiences and what I can bring to the table. Learning what parents, faculty, staff and students need and want, and working together toward common goals, will be my focus.

What are your hopes and expectations for GC in the future? I have high expectations of success for GC students and faculty. Over the summer, I had a lot of great opportunities to talk with President John Ciccone and other members of the GC administration. I expect to continue to see positive growth at GC, and expansion of the students’ curricular success. I want to ensure students do not

Do you keep in touch with other GC alumni? A few, yes. It is fun to hear from them and reminisce about the days at Wheaton with the boys. We were the last graduating class to have been there. It has been very good to reminisce and to discuss the school’s progress.

Can you share some of your interests or hobbies, and also, what might surprise people about you? I have four sons and a wife, Root. I enjoy watching movies, and I spend a lot of time with my kids. Two are in college, one in middle school, and one is in elementary school. One of my sons is a swimmer, so I love to cheer him on when I’m watching him compete.

Do you have any last thoughts? Foundationally, GC taught my peers and me to be good and to do good. First you have be genuinely good; do things to enhance who you are as an individual and externally do things for others, to help those who may be struggling. I think that message is important. The caring person even alone can do wonderful things.

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FEATURE

A CONVERSATION WITH…

Chuck Morton ’83

2025 recipient of the Brother Robert Arrowsmith ’63 Distinguished Alumnus Award JC: At Mass, you spoke passionately about the impact that your time at Good Counsel had on you. Can you share how receiving a scholarship to attend Good Counsel impacted you? Chuck : It completely transformed my life. I am reminded of something that my mother wrote when she outlined a timeline of significant events in her life for a college course. She noted that in the summer of 1979, ‘Chucky was admitted to Good Counsel.’ I was exposed to things that I don't think I would have been exposed to otherwise, and the school provided a foundation that's been very significant in my life.

You have worked as an attorney for Venable for 25 years. What do you enjoy most about guiding companies and entrepreneurs as they build or grow their businesses and their own leadership?

Interview Conducted by John Ciccone President Ciccone sat down with Charles “Chuck” J. Morton, Jr. ’83, the 2025 recipient of the Brother Bob Arrowsmith ’63 Distinguished Alumnus Award.

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It's really exciting watching people create the future. So these entrepreneurs who are building businesses each start with an intention. I imagine them closing their eyes and imagining a brighter future, and then being part of the team that helps that to come true.

You mentioned in your speech to our students that you've had various famous clients over the years, including Michael Jackson. What have been some of the interesting things you've been exposed to because of the line of work that you're in? There have been so many. It's almost mind-blowing. So, from entertainers, I had the pleasure of representing the person who, at least at this point, had designed the most popular computer game in history and helping him sell his business. I've worked with the head of the National Cancer Institute in very difficult situations. Learning about the business that the clients participate in, and trying to think of ways to add value to their efforts is really at the heart of what we do. It has been a fascinating journey filled with opportunity.

Location: Baltimore, Maryland

FEATURE

▲ The Morton Family What are some notable changes you have seen or observed in your profession? It has become more specialized and industry-oriented with time. What I say to young lawyers is that I have been able to build a career by excelling in middlemarket dealmaking, and I can offer myself to the market in that way, but they're going to need to be the best deal lawyer in a specific industry to have a more focused approach. One of the reasons why law firms keep getting bigger is because of this phenomenon. I often need to pull in colleagues who have specialized expertise, whether it be regulatory or in another area.

We noticed that Venable recently posted a webinar on privacy law, and that there are many efforts by states to develop various pieces of privacy legislation. What impact do you think some of the privacy laws might have for Americans in general, and how should our students and recent graduates think about privacy in the world that they're entering today? One of our most successful practices is our privacy practice because of the rate of change and complexity. That's an area that has three tiers, because you have international rules, national rules, and state rules. As various levels of government become more or less active, the other layers do as well, so our students and recent graduates should be mindful of those rules and how their activity online is preserved. It creates an environment where young people need to be more circumspect, thoughtful, and careful.

You were a student at the Wheaton Campus, and you have visited this campus many times over the years, both as a board member and as an alumnus, and most recently receiving the Distinguished Alumnus Award. In what ways have the campus and the students changed over the years, and in what ways have they stayed the same? This feels much more refined than the Wheaton Campus. It's more grand in scale, and the finishes are certainly different than the Wheaton Campus. The soul of the school, though, is unchanged. The lessons that the students are taught are unchanged. I was so impressed with the students last week, as was my entire family. There's a through line to years gone past, and I am incredibly proud of the way the school has been able to become better, the offerings more robust, without losing its soul.

In your role as an adjunct professor, you see a lot of people who are about to start their careers finishing up formal education and moving into career paths. Do your students seem hopeful about the future? Are they optimistic for what lies ahead? My sense is that happy, powerful people find optimism even in the midst of great challenge. Optimism and accomplishments are cousins at Johns Hopkins, where I've taught for many years. The students are very serious and purposeful, career-driven, and accomplished. I teach a business law class, and many of the students are either aspiring entrepreneurs or heading to law school; those are young people who are optimistic. At the end of the day, they acknowledge all of the things that cause young people to be filled with angst, from climate issues to the political challenges that we're facing today, in terms of trying to have a system that's functioning well. One of the reasons why I continue to love teaching is my students find the optimism of young people to plan for the next steps and to do so in a way that is joyful.

With that next generation that you're teaching, do you see any themes or commonality about what they will bring to the future of the country, the future of this region, in terms of mindset or leadership, something that might be different from the way prior generations have approached society? I think it's fair to say that young people today are more focused on work-life balance. They're committed to trying to find a way to ensure their professional lives and their community lives are in alignment in ways that perhaps were not the case or was not the case as much when I was getting out of law school. They expect a fuller, more multidimensional life. Ultimately, that is helping to shape some things very positively. At the same time, they recognize we are facing some deep challenges, and some students seem overwhelmed by those challenges.

Do you have any words of wisdom for the Class of 2025 or any of the most recent classes that are still in college, about their future or things they should be focused on? I once had the opportunity to ask a similar question of Secretary Condoleezza Rice. I knew she had a cohort of friends with whom she had grown up in the segregated south in Birmingham, Alabama, where she was a young person when the 16th Street Baptist Church was fire bombed in 1963. This group of friends went on to be worldclass leaders in lots of different fields, and so I asked her, ‘What's the secret? What advice would you share?’ And she broke it down into three parts. The first was they were taught the importance of faith, family, and hard work. Secondly, she was taught that the sacrifice of others for your sake should never be in vain. And thirdly, she believed you are defined by where you're going, not where you're from. And while that journey is informed by where you come from, ultimately, what defines you is where you're going. I would share those words with young people.

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FALCONS TO FOLLOW

Falcons to FOLLOW Good Counsel alumni make their mark on the world in so many ways. Here are just some of the accomplished individuals who are doing great things, and whose names you are likely to hear again.

Suzi Blake ’14

Perfecting the Art of Comics Follow Blake on to keep up with her work: @suzi.b_doodles

When Suzi Blake ’14 was a Good Counsel student watching the popular television show “Rick and Morty” with her brother on weekends, she never imagined she would one day create art for the show. A comic illustrator and colorist, Blake has created art not only for “Rick & Morty,” but also “Batman: Wayne Family Adventures,” and “Aggretsuko.” She illustrates several popular comic book series. including one that was nominated for an Eisner Award, the comics equivalent of the Oscars. Blake even creates art for various Web series. When she’s not signing autographs for fans at NYC’s Comic Con, Blake, based in St. Louis, Mo., enjoys playing the videogame “Zelda,” eating pho, and drawing the characters and environments from her childhood. “I love creating new drawings for older characters (like Batman) to recreate the magic surrounding them for today’s children,” Blake says.

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FALCONS TO FOLLOW

She has worked as a storyboard artist for the official Skullgirls Webtoon, a background artist for the first collaboration between Webtoon and DC Comics, and as a cover artist for Oni Press on various projects. “My teachers at Good Counsel helped a lot by helping me prepare my portfolio,” Blake says, crediting art teachers Gretchen Irby, Nick Clulow, and former GC art teacher Amanda Stortzum. At the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), she studied sequential art, which focuses on illustrations for comics and children’s books, and drawing storyboards for television. Blake has studied around the world, including in France Hong Kong, and Japan, where she met a SCAD alum working at Universal Studios who encourage her to try illustrating for licensed comics, like Batman or Spongebob.

Her curiosity piqued, she went to a career fair for comics and made a connection that led to working on Batman, for which she illustrated all of the backgrounds in every scene. It was a collaborative effort with five other artists. The group created an episode a week. “I never expected to work for them because Batman is gritty; my stuff is colorful and fluffy typically,” she says. Blake says she even used some of the hallways at Good Counsel as a inspiration for Bruce Wayne’s private school. “It has been a lot of fun because the fandom around it is a great community,” she says. Another project Blake currently enjoys is illustrating jacksepticeye comic books. Seán “jacksepticeye” McLoughlin started out as a popular Youtuber and then launched the “Altrverse” comic series, about superheroes and not to so super ones.

To young artists wanting to work in illustrating, she advises, “Keep practicing.” Many artists tend get discouraged if their work isn’t immediately great, she says. “Allow yourself to make mistakes; just don't stop. Continue to love what you do. Keep in contact with everyone you meet. Many jobs I’ve had have been [found] through friends.” She works part-time at Fantasy Books and Games, a retail store, where she can see a different side of the industry; she can see the fans buying comic books firsthand. “People sometimes buy my comics and leave them in a folder so I can draw a character for them on there and sign it. I like to have fun with my coworkers, and it’s a win-win because I’m promoting the store and the store is promoting me,” Blake says. “I want to say thank you to Good Counsel itself because they were the ones who laid the groundwork for my success.”

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FALCONS TO FOLLOW

Ian Coursey ’20 Starring On Stage Ian Coursey ’20 has many talents. A performer who starred in “Dear Evan Hansen” on Broadway, a film and voice actor, a musical recording artist with his first album on the way, and a band frontman, Coursey credits Good Counsel with helping to build his success. “GC changed my life!” Coursey says. He initially thought he would focus on baseball during high school. “That is not what happened. I saw GC’s production of ‘Noises Off’ during my freshman year and turned to my mom and said, ‘I have to do this.’” From there, Coursey auditioned for GC’s next spring musical, which was “Titanic.” “That experience changed the course of my life. I quit baseball and poured all my energy into performing. Rosemary Slocum, our producer and costume designer, told me to start voice lessons with a GC alum, Rolando Sanz ’96. Rolando taught me everything I know about singing—he truly changed my life and helped me grow so much,” says Coursey, who adds that former IB theater teacher Kristina Friedgen, current theater director Camille Pozderac, and Dr. Megan Dean ’03 served as important mentors for him during that time. “I did every Good Counsel show from then on and made so many amazing friends. I also joined The Young Artists of America and Ovations Theatre Company. I was doing about three shows at a time and having a blast,” Coursey says. After high school, he starred in “Catch Me If You Can” and “Hair” at the University of Michigan while studying there.

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Arguably his big break came when Coursey was cast as an understudy in “Dear Evan Hansen” on Broadway.“I covered the roles of Connor and Jared and went on a little over 80 times over the course of a year,” he says. “I was a huge fan of the show before I was cast—I had seen it twice on Broadway and had the entire cast album memorized. I was absolutely thrilled when I found out I’d be joining the cast!” “It was wild to be part of a show that had such an impact on Broadway and the theater community. We had fans traveling from Asia to usee us,” he says. “It was incredibly rewarding to perform such powerful material. It’s rare to get to perform Tony Award-winning work every night, and all the songs are absolute bangers!” Although Coursey says touring can be isolating and draining, he was lucky to have a strong support system in the rest of the cast. In 2025, he pivoted to acting in a feature film called “TIGER,” alongside film legend Kevin Corrigan, known for such hits as “Superbad” and “The Departed.” The independent film, directed by Kerry Ann Enright, is slated to be released by 2026. “I’ve also done a lot of voiceover and commercial work, which has been a blast,” Coursey says. He became interested in audio production and recording during the pandemic, which is also when he started writing and recording his own music. Voiceover projects came naturally to him, and he found he enjoyed the process.

FALCONS TO FOLLOW

He also started a rock band called Cereal Monogamy, which has played gigs all over Manhattan and Brooklyn, including at the prestigious venue The Cutting Room. “We mostly perform original music, with a few covers each show, and we’re working on releasing an album on streaming services,” Coursey says. As if that wasn’t enough, he also sings at the Coby, a jazz club in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City, once a week. He loves crooning and lists it as one of his great passions. “In addition to performing, I’m currently recording my first solo album, which I’m incredibly proud of,” Coursey says. He hopes to complete it this fall. “I’ve also had the amazing opportunity to be involved in new original musicals written by my best friend, Daniel Seligman,” he says. Along with Director Mia Ehrlich, they have developed and produced new works in New York, including “Sweet Mother of Christ” and “The 1000 Year Old Man.” Both received positive reviews. This summer, he headed to the Marriott Theatre in Chicago to lead the world premiere of a brand-new musical called “Always Something There,” written by playwright Sandy Rustin. “The show is a love letter to the 80’s and a combination of many classic hits with a ton of killer 80’s music. It was a dream project because I originated a role and play live guitar,” Coursey says. This fall, he is part of the new national tour of “The Sound of Music,” playing the role of Rolf, the conflicted young love interest of Liesl von Trapp. “I’m over the moon about it. The most exciting part is that we open at The Kennedy Center. I can’t wait for all my family, friends, and teachers to come see the show,” he says. “It’s always so special performing there—I grew up attending shows and visiting the stage door, so it’s surreal to now be the one walking out of those doors.”

Erik Simmons PHD ’11 Using Science To Better Society

Erik Simmons, Ph.D. ’11 is a behavioral scientist who is having a significant impact on scientific research, social justice, and athletics. Simmons received his doctorate in psychological and behavioral sciences from the University of Queensland in 2019. “My north star has always been to use psychology and behavioral science to help people improve their lives and create a more just society,” he says. While living in Australia, Simmons worked as a lead scientist and project manager on the Capturing Coral Reefs and Related Ecosystem Services project. Simmons collaborated with low-resource coastal communities across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, that are susceptible to the negative consequences of overfishing and climate change. There, he sought to identify and implement lifestyle and behavior changes that would help the people there live sustainably and improve their quality of life. As a research fellow at Boston College, Simmons worked on an early childhood development home visitation program in Rwanda that supported over 300 households. Today, he works for a behavioral science non-profit, ideas42, on social

and economic justice, specifically designing behavioral solutions and shifting narratives for social good. He leads two projects aimed at helping underprivileged black families in Atlanta receive guaranteed income and reducing gun violence in Washington, D.C. “Gun violence has declined in D.C. over the past year, but it remains an issue close to my heart—deeply personal and deeply urgent,” Simmons says. A former GC wrestler, Simmons maintains a foothold in the world of sports by working with athletes in combat sports as a coach and mindset expert. Some of his clients have competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, a mixed martial arts promotion company with a global audience of over 900 million households.

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FALCONS TO FOLLOW

Brian Saway ’12 Changing Lives One Spine at a Time

Dr. Brian Saway ’12, a fifth-year neurosurgery resident at the Medical University of South Carolina, is researching ways to improve spinal cord surgeries and the well-being of neurosurgeons. He will start a fellowship in complex spinal oncology at Johns Hopkins University this year. “Spinal-oncology is an area of neurosurgery that is growing rapidly and is one where you can make a significant impact in the lives of patients,” he says. He is studying ultrasound technology during spinal surgery, which allows doctors to see the spine in real time. He is also developing evidence-based, behavioral interventions to combat burnout and improve operative performance amongst neurosurgeons. “When taking out a tumor of the spine, we are often tasked with reconstructing and stabilizing the spine following resection, which is like putting together a complex puzzle. A single surgery can involve using a microscope to perform

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delicate surgery around the spinal cord and also using screws and rods to stabilize the spine,” he explains. “Most importantly, in this field, we can truly help patients who are suffering,” Saway says. Eventually, he plans to go into academia to impart his knowledge to others. “While operating on the nervous system is at the heart of what I do, a single neurosurgeon will only be able to perform a few thousand surgeries in their career. However, being involved with research and discovery allows for the potential to help millions of people, even after my career is over. Similarly with teaching, I am able to share with others the knowledge and skills that I have acquired, which they then share with others,” he says. Before his residency, Saway completed his undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and then received his medical degree at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine.

Saway has also been a member of the CNS Wellness and Resilience Committee, where he has collaborated with neurosurgeons throughout the country to develop ways to improve the wellness of neurosurgeons. “Good Counsel instilled in me the importance of finding an occupation that allows you to help and give back to your community while also providing me with the tools to reach the goal of becoming a neurosurgeon,” he says. “The lessons learned, values taught, and lifelong friends made at Good Counsel laid the foundation and provided the fuel needed for me to become a neurosurgeon.” Saway is open to being contacted by members of the Good Counsel community for future collaboration and by potential patients that need neurosurgical care. In his spare time, he enjoys surfing, kiteboarding, soccer, and playing guitar.

FALCONS TO FOLLOW

Kim Ferguson ’01

A Ravens Exec Rallies for Girls' Flag Football Kim Ferguson ’01 has achieved a victory five years in the making. The Senior Director of Fan Development and Activation for the National Football League’s Baltimore Ravens has helped make high school girls' flag football a major success in Maryland.

Ferguson, who worked her way up through the Ravens organization from a post-college internship to an executive role, has been working diligently to generate interest and participation in the sport, which has become extremely popular with girls in the area. Today, 53 public high schools in the state offer flag football for girls. In fact, it is the fastest growing youth sport, Ferguson says. In 2028, the sport will debut at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The idea grew from Ferguson’s work in fan and community engagement with the Ravens. “I work on reaching our fans 365 days a year, wherever they are in their lives, all ages, wherever they live, including in different counties or states,” Ferguson says. She helps organize fan events and contests at the stadium, youth football games, community events, festivals, and more. Part of her focus has been on reaching women and youth. That’s where her interest in flag football came in.

“It’s very exciting,” says Ferguson, who says the sport helps build confidence. Also, flag football is popular with many girls who previously didn’t play a sport because it is easy and inexpensive to get started, she says. “You just need a uniform and a ball,” she adds. Ferguson and the Ravens partner with local public high schools by providing the teams with $5,000 each; Under Armour provides the uniforms. First, Ferguson’s team held flag football clinics, which were very popular. In 2023, they created an 8-week pilot season with ten teams in Frederick, Md., followed by a “Kick-off Classic.” “Frederick County was glowing,” she says. By the following year, 43 teams had been established in Maryland, and ten more have been added for the 2025 season. Public high schools offer teams in Baltimore City, Washington County, Montgomery County, and Frederick County. Ferguson hopes to eventually bring the sport to Catholic schools, as well. The Ravens started with high schools to hopefully generate interest with younger girls using a trickle down approach. It seems to be working. Last spring, the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) launched a spring flag football league for youth players due to the buzz surrounding the sport and its growth in the area. “Our goal is to get it sanctioned. It’s a great opportunity for females to be out there and play a sport that is close to our heart,” Ferguson says. “I love what we’re doing, and am grateful to the Ravens organization for allowing us to go out into the community to do this work.”

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FALCONS TO FOLLOW

Talia Skyles ’17

Bringing Words to Life

After graduating from GC, Skyles attended Maryland Institute College of Art, where she studied many forms of art. She experienced a pivotal moment when she took a children’s book illustration class and fell in love with the medium. In the class, Skyles made a splash with a project in which she had to create a mockup of a children’s book. Her teacher and others were very impressed, which led to her getting an agent at Painted Words and subsequently the Forman book projects.

Artist Talia Skyles ’17 has illustrated children’s books, a romance novel cover, and more. She enjoyed art from a young age, but really fell in love with it during her time at Good Counsel. Skyles says her experience in the GC art program was formative and wonderful. She credits her teachers, Mrs. Gretchen Irby and Mr. Nick Clulow, with providing her a framework for her success. “They helped me take my art to the next level, and gave me the courage to pursue a career in it,” she says. “They made a huge impression on me as a young artist in a really positive way.” In particular, she remembers learning about watercolor and realism at GC. Those art forms came heavily into play when she was illustrating children’s books Bloom and Ours, by author Ruth Forman, published by Simon & Schuster. The books feature colorful, dreamy images that Skyles adeptly used to complement Forman’s poetic prose.

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“After I graduated, I wanted to get a master’s in teaching art. I continued right away with master’s program, and now I am an elementary school teacher in Baltimore, and I illustrate children’s books in my small amount of free time,” Skyles says. She is considering cutting back to part-time teaching in the future in order to have more time for illustrating. Skyles illustrated another book that was released in August 2025, I Am Because We Are, by Alison Matulli, about a group of children who put on a community play featuring a musical dance number. The book is based on African Ubuntu philosophy and published by Disney Hyperion. “It’s about helping and uplifting each other, and working together,” says Skyles, who worked on the book for two years. “I’m really excited about it.” She is also working on an exciting new project that she can’t talk about yet, other than to say she has total artistic freedom. “They want my vision to shine through,” she says. As if that wasn’t enough, Skyles has been writing her own book. “That’s the dream - to have written and illustrated a book,” she says. “That will probably happen farther down the line because I’m so busy right now.”

FALCONS TO FOLLOW

Paul Hogan ’95

Producing a Chilling Tale him to get information for the police,” Hogan says. Clark even told Jack where he had buried one of his victims. Fascinated by the story, he pitched his idea to some television streaming networks. Eventually, he was invited to Michael Bay’s home. “It was the nicest house I’ve ever been in,” Hogan says.

Hollywood producer and director Paul Hogan ’95 has created and developed a true crime documentary series with Michael Bay (director of “Transformers,” “Armageddon,” and countless other blockbuster movies). Called “Born Evil: The Serial Killer and the Savior,” the show is about a killer Hogan knew when he was growing up in Chevy Chase, Md. “Born Evil” focuses on Hadden Irving Clark, an American murderer and suspected serial killer serving two 30-year sentences for the murders of 6-year-old Michele Lee Dorr in 1986 and 23-year-old Laura Houghteling in 1992. The series was released on the ID channel in 2024 and is available for streaming on HBO Max, Prime Video, and Hulu. Hogan has a unique perspective on the story; Clark was an adult who hung around the Episcopal church where Hogan’s mother was the youth minister when Hogan was 13 years old. In fact, the killer lived in a truck in the parking lot of the church. “I interacted with him a lot,” says Hogan, who remembers one incident especially clearly.

“Clark was milling about, helping, and I spent the day talking and painting with him,” Hogan says. “We both liked roller blading, so we talked about that and then he said, ‘I have roller blades down in my car, want to come see them?’ I saw his car in the far distance near a wooded area. I had a funny feeling about it, so I said, ‘No, that’s okay.’”

After an amazing tour of Bay’s house, which included the actual Bumblebee car from “Transformers” in his basement, Hogan was told the film legend wanted to sign onto the project. Their visions for the series were aligned. Hogan and Bay wanted to focus on Clark’s relationship with his cellmate, to whom he confessed his crimes.

“That always stuck with me, that I could have been a victim,” Hogan says. Laura Houghteling, the first victim Clark was convicted of killing, was the daughter of a member of Hogan’s church.

In part, Hogan wanted to tell the story widely to prevent Clark from being released on parole.

Another time when Hogan saw Clark, he says, “I called out and said, ‘Hi.’ He looked at me, but he wasn’t seeing me. In his eyes, it was like he was a different person. He just wasn’t there.” The experiences had a profound impact on the young man, especially years later when he found out that Clark was a convicted serial killer. As an adult in the filmmaking world, Hogan decided to research Clark. A book, Born Evil, had been written about his story, but the facts were nebulous at best. Hogan looked into Clark’s history more thoroughly. “There was a guy named Jack, his cellmate, who was like Jesus to him, who interviewed

Aside from the docuseries, Hogan has many television and film editing projects, and is currently helping to pitch a scripted series about street racers. Despite not being “a documentary guy,” Hogan won a Writers Guild of America Award for another true life limited television series, “Debunking Borat,” starring Sacha Baron Cohen. Hogan co-wrote the show, which won in the category of Adapted Short Form New Media. The six-episode series explores conspiracy theories and serves as a follow-up to the satirical film “Borat 2.” “I knew from the time I was a kid I wanted to be in show business,” Hogan says. “The GC drama department taught me about the craft of acting, literature, and storytelling. It also gave me the sense of how to perform, how to speak. GC is a big part of my success.”

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BROTHER MARK AWARD

Great Aspirations

This Year’s Brother Mark Award Winner,

Eddie Battista ’25

He is inspired by his uncle, Andrew Battista, a Baltimore County judge. Eddie also developed a love for political science in his GC classes, especially history and comparative government classes taught by Jacob Blauvelt. “Eddie’s combination of academic curiosity and work ethic made him a joy to teach,” Blauvelt says. “Eddie brought balanced, nuanced dialogue to every conversation to engage with his peers, regardless of their backgrounds.”

“I was extremely honored when my classmates voted for me to be nominated,” says Neale “Eddie” Battista ’25, winner of this year’s Brother Mark Award, Good Counsel’s top recognition for one graduating senior each year. The award is presented to a student who has given the most of themselves to make Good Counsel a special community. Battista was surprised to hear his name called for the award at graduation. “I didn’t think it was going to be me,” he says. “When I was up there seeing everyone clapping and cheering for me, it really made all the work I put in for the past four years worth it.” Next year, Battista will attend Brown University, where he will major in political science and government and play football. He says the coaching staff at Brown are amazing, and that when he sat in on some classes, he knew he wanted to attend the University. “I would love a career in politics,” says the 18-year-old. “Serving as a U.S. Senator is something I would absolutely want to do.”

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“Every once in a while, a student fully embodies the mission of Good Counsel in ways I didn’t know were possible. Eddie is one of those students,” says Maggie Bykowski-Smith, director of campus ministry. “Eddie is a humble leader who focuses simply on what needs to be done and then does it well,” she says. “He is passionate about helping others, kind to everyone, and trustworthy in the extreme. He’s never been afraid to advocate for what he believes is right, fair, and just, and he is a worthy Brother Mark Award Winner!” Over the summer, Battista worked out at GC to prepare for football camp in Providence, R.I., this August. He is excited about his freshman year in college, but he says he’ll never forget his roots or the GC community. “GC formed me into the man I am today. I came into high school not knowing where I wanted to go or what I wanted to pursue. GC provided pathways to discover myself and explore my interests, especially through activities like Student Government Association, peer education, and XBSS, which aided all my interests.”

SPOTLIGHT

Esteemed Teacher

RICH SEEL RETIRES

After 47 years, beloved teacher Rich Seel retired from Our Lady of Good Counsel High School at the end of the 2025-2026 school year. The iconic figure in the Good Counsel English department and community will be missed by faculty, staff, and students alike. Fortunately for the community, Seel plans to stay in the area for at least a few years and expects to see GC friends and acquaintances often. “I bump into alumni and former parents all the time,” Seel says. “In fact, I recently saw a former student’s mother at GrillMarX, and she gave me a big hug. I coached her son, Tony Wells ’82, in freshman and JV basketball. He went to the Naval Academy, where he played with David Robinson. He went on to open several businesses in Arizona.” The story is just one of hundreds of tales of former students Seel has stored in his memory. GC Assistant Principal Andy Collins ’82 (a former student of Seel’s) says, “Rich Seel’s influence on students and fellow teachers at Good Counsel cannot be overstated.” Collins also taught English alongside Seel for years. “For many new teachers – myself included once upon a time – this has meant showing them not only the job of teaching (classroom management, planning a syllabus, grading, etc.), but also showing them the art of teaching: Of really getting to know your students and seeing them not just as names in a gradebook but as individuals with their own experiences, perspectives, and abilities,” Collins says. Seel encouraged students to reach outside of their intellectual comfort zones by

challenging their thinking, pushing their talents beyond mere adequacy. In particular, Seel is known for taking pains to help students in need. During the height of the pandemic, for example, he spent multiple evenings a week tutoring an international student who was not able to leave China. “Her English class would have been at 2 a.m. over there, and that was crazy. So on the days when she would have English, I would teach her via Zoom. It was better that she got 45 minutes of instruction from me personally rather than watching a video,” Seel says. The following year, the student came back to Olney to attend GC, and then she went on to college, he adds. Known for his compelling storytelling, Seel often looks back on memorable moments from his time at GC, such as the earthquake in 2011. “It was the first day of school, and I was on the third floor in a study hall. I didn’t know my students yet, and I didn’t know the classroom. So we felt vibrations, and a couple of kids picked their heads up. I thought maybe it was just the rumbling of a laptop cart. Then things started really shaking. And it was funny, because a kid ran by my door who was a kid that normally always just shuffled along, wherever he was going, he just shuffled. But he was running. So I told the class, ‘I think this is an earthquake; let’s get out of here!’” The students and Seel all made it outside safely, and afterward, he had another amusing story to add to his collection. Seel originally intended to go to law school after teaching for just a few years, but

ended up staying because he loved the environment and community at GC. “I'm a big fan of Catholic education. You know, there's a good vibe,” says Seel, who attended Catholic University. “I always felt comfortable with the other teachers here.” In fact, he taught several current GC faculty and staff, including Steve Howes ’91, Joey Cabigas ’82, Andy Collins ’82, Maggie Bykowski Smith ’08, and Georgia Chaconas ’03. Seel says he loves seeing former students return to work at the school. “I have enjoyed the experience here. It's fun seeing kids that you taught years ago, when they send their kids here years later,” he adds. Many former students, faculty, staff, and friends from GC gathered at GrillMarX in late May to celebrate Seel and commemorate his retirement. Stories about his quippy teaching style and no-nonsense attitude were shared throughout the evening. “Mr. Seel’s approach to his students’ learning was what I think Theodore Ryken intended when he founded the Xaverian Brothers order many years ago,” Collins says. “He cared less about the ‘English student’ sitting in front of him at that moment than he did about the person he knew that student could be.”

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FEATURE

Wheaton

The Lost History of

“I’ll never forget my first day at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School,” says Ron Lara ’62. “It was basically empty.” It was 1958, and the school had just opened its doors on the Wheaton Campus. Lara remembers it well. “There was a small freshman class and about 20 sophomores,” he recalls. “It was a beautiful campus. We didn’t have the sports fields yet; those came a few years later. There were woods on each side of the high school and also in the back.”

▲ VW Bugs in the library for 1985 Senior Prank

Bob Chambers ’83 and his friends used to call the woods next to Good Counsel “Nam.” “We used logs as seats and would hang out there before football games,” he says. “We just had fun.” Then the boys would go to the football game to socialize with girls and friends from other schools. “We were the only school with lights on the field in the whole county, so we had the only game on Friday night,” Chambers says. He and dozens of other GC alumni from his era stay in touch via a WhatsApp group. They love to talk about the old days in Wheaton.

To share your own memories of the Wheaton campus, scan the code shown here.

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“The brotherhood we have now consists of about 60 guys who like to reminisce and joke around together. We tell all of the old stories, and new stories come out when a new person joins,” Chambers says.

Pranks Many Wheaton-era stories are recollections of pranks, often pulled by seniors nearing graduation, such as gluing locks shut and painting doors, or parking VW’s in the library with the principal’s blessing in 1985. “Racing down Arcola Avenue was fun,” Chambers says, recalling ways he and his classmates would spend time out of school. The 1967 Good Counsel Yearbook edited by J. Wayne Aderhold ’67 notes antics of that year’s freshman class, including a fight behind Wheaton Library, and a ten-minute standing ovation they gave Brother Mark after his farewell address. GC boys were still having fun in the 1980s. “We used to cram people into the dumbwaiter that was used to transport food from the cafeteria to the Brothers’ quarters on the second floor,” remembers GC science teacher Joey Cabigas ’82. “Uniforms have come a long way,” Cabigas says. “As a student, my uniform was anything with a tie. Many wore Levi’s cords and plaid shirts with Frye boots.”

Faculty In the early days, GC classes were taught in large part by Xaverian Brothers, who did their best to keep their students in line while educating and guiding them.

FEATURE

Little Tavern, Roy Rogers, and Barnaby’s for post-game hangouts with friends. Michaels, Cabigas, and former English teacher Ryan Murphy fondly remember Ginger Burch, “the best cafeteria manager ever! She always gave everyone a playful smack,” Cabigas says. Burch was known for her legendary grilled cheese sandwiches.

The Building They would hand out “canaries,” yellow cards given out mid-term if a student was not doing well in a class. Then there were JUGs, (Justice Under God) given as punishment for wrongdoing, which entailed sitting in a silent room doing nothing or cleaning the parking lot, the floors, or the lockers. It wasn’t all about discipline, though. The faculty at Wheaton were caring and dedicated teachers. Lara recalls a time when one of the Brothers - he doesn’t remember which one - turned things around for him in a big way. He had struggled with mathematics for years. “I got a zero on my first math exam at Good Counsel. The teacher asked me to stay after class. I thought I was in trouble, but he taught me the logic of how math works. I got straight A’s in math after that,” he says. Students who wrote for the 1983 yearbook noted that “Counselor/teacher Emmet Davitt is always there to help students deal with problems, or to simply talk.” The Brothers also knew how to have fun, such as during donkey basketball games. For more than four decades, Mr. Rich Seel was known for teasing students and making jokes during English lessons.

A longtime favorite faculty member, the late Dennis Essig, was known for playing songs like “Guantanamera” on his guitar and joking around with students.

Food Another longstanding GC tradition is begging teachers for snacks. “They might yell at you, but you knew you could count on them if you needed something,” Chambers says. Brother Barry Fitzpatrick, GC’s principal from 1980-86, allowed seniors to have open lunch during the last week of school. One group of students tried to take advantage of that perk a day early, and almost missed their senior prom because of it, until beloved art teacher Patricia Davis pled their case. In May 1982, the first International Potluck-Spring Arts Festival was held in GC’s cafeteria, where delicious food was enjoyed. The event later evolved into a popular Dessert Night concert that lasted for nearly 20 years. Shawn Michaels ’94 recalls walking to the Chicken Basket down the street for food after school in the early 1990’s. GC students loved going to eateries like Hot Shoppes,

Anyone who was there will tell you the Wheaton school had its quirks, such as narrow hallways that were tough to pass through between classes. “Kids at their lockers blocked all movement,” Cabigas says. “There was a teeny middle stairwell that went from the second floor to the gym,” he remembers. The top of the stairwell was closed down by administrators because it was too dark, and students would get into trouble there. Murphy remembers teaching in temporary trailers in the outer courtyard. It was an adventure. “Once, a dead raccoon stunk up a trailer, which was rendered unusable until Jorge Gonzalez’s dog sniffed it out,” he says. Andrew Johnson ’69 recalls when the theatre department produced its first full musical in the 1965-66 school year. The school didn’t have a theater or even a stage, so the performance was put on in the gym on a portable stage built by members of the drama club. Lara has only positive things to say about Wheaton. “The gym was fantastic. It was great to play basketball and other sports there,” he says. “We also had a very nice courtyard in the center near the main entrance and the main office.” “It was a great experience going to Good Counsel in Wheaton,” Lara says. “I still have lasting friendships I made there.”

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BY THE NUMBERS

Good Counsel

CLASS OF 2025

262 6 9% 38% 104 33% 99% 70% GRADUATES

130

29

$7 million

$6 million

received scholarship awards totaling nearly

student-athletes offered scholarships totaling

$41 million

$5 million

scholarships earned by the Ryken Studies Program students totaling

students in our STEM Program offered 84 scholarships totaling

attending

colleges and universities in 32 states and D.C.

will attend private colleges and universities

attending a college outside of Maryland

reported* acceptance rate to a four-year college or university as of 5/16/25

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30,000+

community service hours completed

BY THE NUMBERS

48% will attend U.S. News’ Top 100 Colleges and Universities, including:

1 26

National Merit Finalist

Students in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program awarded 120 scholarships totaling over $8 million

National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars

11

9

National African American Recognition Program Scholars

33

Student-athletes offered scholarships totaling $5 million

American University Boston College Brown University Clemson University College of the Holy Cross College of William & Mary Connecticut College Drew University Drexel University Duke University Fordham University George Washington University Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Gettysburg College Indiana University-Bloomington Lehigh University Marquette University New York University Northeastern University Ohio State University-Main Campus Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Main Campus Reed College Rochester Institute of Technology Rutgers University-New Brunswick Spelman College Temple University Tufts University University at Buffalo University of Colorado Boulder University of Connecticut University of Delaware University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Maryland-College Park University of Massachusetts-Amherst University of Miami University of Michigan-Ann Arbor University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus University of Washington-Seattle Campus Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Wake Forest University

2025-2026

Good Counsel Diversity Breakdown White: 45% African-American: 25% Hispanic: 9% Asian-American: 5% Multiracial: 13% Other: 3%

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FEATURE

&

MISSION IDENTITY:

Proclaiming Good Work

I hope that people will better understand what it means to be a Xaverian school, and that it is our mission. — Maggie Bykowski Smith ’08 Director of Campus Ministry

During the 2024-25 school year, Our Lady of Good Counsel High School’s Office of Mission and Identity launched a three-year action plan, “Faithfully Living Out Our Calls,” which complements the school’s strategic plan. It focuses on priorities identified by Good Counsel’s 2024 XBSS Mission Effectiveness Review and its 2024 Climate Assessment report to strengthen and enhance the role of Good Counsel’s Catholic and Xaverian mission in the GC student experience. The plan focuses on several pillars: Xaverian spiritual formation; institutionalization of our mission and relationships; and peace, justice, and inclusion. “The themes themselves were formed in conjunction with our understanding of the Xaverian calls. We developed

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this in concert, not only with our larger strategic plan, but also in conjunction with the mission of the Xaverian Brothers-sponsored school network,” Maggie Bykowski Smith ’08, Director of Campus Ministry, says. Campus Ministry falls within GC’s Office of Mission and Identity, along with Multicultural Affairs and Inclusion. Limnyuy Konglim ’01, Chief Mission and Identity Officer, says a key component of the new plan is to ensure the office’s approach is standardized throughout GC. “We want to be sure that individuals are not seeing the Xaverian formation as work that Mission and Identity and Campus Ministry are solely responsible for. There will be collaboration with all of our departments,” Konglim says.

FEATURE

“Athletics will be a major area of focus, to ensure that we're infusing more of our Xaverian identity into the work of athletics, whether that's through leadership formation, encouraging more service projects, incorporating prayer, which I know many teams already do, and providing support to help them do that,” she adds. “We will also collaborate with the Advancement Office to help enhance the connection of alumni back to our school community.” Both GC’s Mission Effectiveness Review and the Climate Assessment were carried out in deep consultation with all the stakeholders in the school community. “The initiatives that we've planned are in response to the needs identified by those stakeholders,” Bykowski Smith says. The plan outlines much of the work in these areas that already happens within the school. “I think something we are excellent at doing as a school is approaching the whole child. This plan highlights that by identifying the awesome work that athletics is doing and that our teachers are doing, and brings it all under one umbrella so that we can point to it and say, look at everything we're doing. This is mission. This is what we are called to do and it is what we are doing,” Bykowski Smith says. Konglim agrees. “The plan is a faithful extension of what we've already been doing. It is a deepening of our work. There's a lot of quiet work that happens both in Campus Ministry and Mission and Identity that are traditions to GC and really well integrated to GC, but sometimes it isn’t obvious to parents and others.” The new plan, which is available for viewing on the Good Counsel website under “Mission and Identity,” shares details about this good work with the community. “I hope that people will better understand what it means to be a Xaverian school, and that it is our mission,” Bykowski Smith says. “One of the intended positive outcomes is helping people recognize that even

Falcons SERVING Others

Good Counsel’s Office of Campus Ministry encourages students to perform service for the poor and marginalized. Falcons Serving Others has taken an active role in leading the charge. Members of the club focus on volunteering in the community to benefit populations in need, such as residents of retirement homes and people who are hospitalized and fighting diseases. Past volunteer activities have included singing to the elderly during the Christmas season; making and delivering care packages to various populations, including cancer patients; and attending Good Counsel’s service trips to Appalachia and El Salvador. The members of the club are learning the value of helping others. “I like that being part of this club enables us to help local marginalized people,” says GC Isabelle Poole ’26. “Having the opportunity though we've moved from Wheaton to Olney and the school looks physically different, and teachers have come and gone, our values haven't changed. Those are the same as they were 10, 20, 30 years ago, and I think this plan really highlights that. It's really important,” she adds. Bykowski Smith says that as an alumna, an employee, and someone who is committed to GC students, she is excited about the plan. “Being a large co-ed Catholic and Xaverian school is a tall order, but I think

to educate ourselves about what is going on and give back to local communities makes us feel good,” she says. Olivia Baskin ’26, enjoys engaging with families of cancer patients who may have to spend long hours in a hospital. Multiple members of her family have had cancer, so she has felt the positive impact of community members showing they care. “It’s so fulfilling to know you’re helping people. The little things can make a difference,” Baskin says. Jude Buber ’27 says, “It is our responsibility to give back to the communities that have given us so much, and to lift up those who have fallen down.” “In service, you are taking your time and giving toward something bigger than yourself,” he adds. “It is not only what we are taught at GC, it with our calling as students of the Xaverian teachings, and the simply right thing to do.” this plan, in conjunction with everything else good that the school is doing, sets some great next steps for this office.” Konglim says students regularly share with her team ways in which the Office’s work allows them to feel seen and heard in new ways. “Mission should be at the core of what we're doing, so I'm excited about this,” she says. “We are saying, ‘we've heard, we're listening, and we're going to prioritize these actions.’

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

Celebrating 10 YEARS of the

PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: A Decade of Inspiring Creativity and Transforming Student Lives This year, Our Lady of Good Counsel High School celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Performing Arts Center (PAC), which has had a tremendous positive impact on the school and its students.

Shows were performed at Olney Theatre or Sandy Spring Friends School nearby. Sets were built in someone’s garage. “We needed the PAC so desperately,” says Rosemary Pompa, who has worked as a props mentor for GC since 2008.

Opened in 2016, the three-story, 26,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art space includes a 650-seat theatre, set design and construction shop, dressing rooms, fully equipped orchestra pit, costume and property shops, black box theatre, dance studio, and arts education classroom.

Pompa was thrilled when the project was completed. She contributed to the campaign to fund the PAC’s prop shop in honor of her children, Tony Pompa III ’09 and Ciara Rose Pompa ’15.

Before Good Counsel’s beautiful PAC was opened thanks to a capital campaign, the GC Theatre Company had to perform off campus.

“We used to keep props and furniture in a storage unit in Aspen Hill, and rent space to perform at Olney Theatre and Sandy Spring Friends School,” she says. “It has been wonderful to have a place of our own to perform.”

“It was challenging because we had two days to get everything ready for tech week,” says Laurie Bautista, operations manager of the PAC. GC students could not learn about the technical aspects of putting on a show or building sets because those processes had to take place elsewhere.

Former GC President Paul Barker and the Board of Directors led the fundraising campaign for the construction of the PAC. Barker believed building a center for the arts was crucial. The campaign was co-chaired by Al Checchi ’66 and Dave Higgins ’75.

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FEATURE

▲ Cast of "Urinetown," Spring 2025 “To hear the teachers like Stan Spotswood ’81 and Rich Slocum, all the years they had been in the fine and performing arts and having to make do with a lack of space, and the emotion they expressed after it was built was wonderful,” Barker said in 2022. Students learn more thanks to the facilities, Bautista explains. “The students on the costume crew have the opportunity to look for things in a certain color palette and time period in our costume shop,” she says. “Students come away with the knowledge of how to physically do this stuff themselves.” Professional theaters that have toured GC are envious of the costume shop. “A very usable, efficient, practical space was designed for us, and we use it well,” Bautista says. She feels the space enhances student performances by building their confidence. “What they are able to do is really elevated beyond what they were able to do in terms of the audio, and they have much more time for rehearsal in the space.” GC Theatre, directed by Camille Pozderac, is known for its wonderful performances. The Spring 2025 production of “Urinetown”

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was nominated for many regional high school theater awards, including several Critics and Awards Program for High School Students (CAPPIES) Awards, given by a group of student critics representing schools across the DMV. GC was nominated for best ensemble, best female dancer, best male dancer, best stage management, and best scenic crew.

▲ Tom Kramer ’07, band and orchestra director, conducting student musicians

“We are now at the point where our students have never not had the PAC,” Bautista says. “Now it’s part of their experience. They feel at home. We can provide a school ‘home’ for students who don’t have one in athletics or student government or another area.” GC’s choir, too, has felt the profound impact of the PAC. “Having a great facility has made all the difference in the world in the quality of our performances as well as the experience for our audiences,” says Spottswood, GC’s choir director.

▲ Al Checchi ’66, Kathy Checchi, Dr. Paul Barker, “Before the opening of the PAC, we had our concerts off campus, in less than ideal venues with limited control over the sound system. But now we have dedicated

Lisa Higgins, and Dave Higgins ’75 at the PAC ribbon cutting ceremony

FEATURE

Supporting the Arts at GC As a part of our celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Performing Arts Center, we invite all alumni and the GC community to come celebrate 10 Years of Performing Arts with us at these performances in 2025-2026. On Saturday, March 28, 2026, we will invite back alumni and past supporters of the arts to join the GC community for our 38th Grand Celebration. We will celebrate the Performing Arts Center's impact on our students and the community, and raise support during the live appeal to build an endowment for the arts.

▲ "Rag Time," GC's spring musical in 2022

resources to having the right lighting and audio equipment as well as audio and lighting engineers,” he says. “These additions have inspired our students to another level of excellence. This is especially important when combining student performances with some of the professional world-class musicians we’ve brought in.” The PAC is also home to GC’s dance program. Kaya Harrison ’11, dance teacher, choreographer, and producer for the GC Dance Company, says their space, which was built as part of the PAC construction project, has made all the difference. “The studio is our safe space and the place where we make all the magic happen,” she says. “Dancers who are just starting out learn something new about themselves here. Those studio doors open up a world of possibilities for them in an environment that we work really hard to keep kind and encouraging.” “Experienced dancers find community here and purpose in the field of dance education, not just another place to work their technique in a room full of mirrors,” Harrison says. “On stage, we get to share what we love with our audiences and the greater community. Our state-of-the-art facility allows us to put on professional-

24: Chamber Choir Recital Year of Arts September October 9: Fall Vocal Concert Performances October 16: Fall Instrumental Concert 7-8; 14-15: Fall Play 2025-2026 November December 11: Christmas Band and Vocal Concert

Alumni are invited to return to GC and join us as we celebrate the Performing Arts Center's 10th anniversary.

level productions that impress audiences, but also make the dancers feel honored in their craft.” Harrison remembers the first winter dance concert held at GC in January 2022. “It was small and certainly not as big as the concerts are now, but it was the seed that planted the program and is what drives prospective dancers to us now.” The PAC made all of that possible, she says. Most days after school, a group practices in the PAC: theater, dance, poms, or majorettes. The GC music department depends on the PAC, holding instrumental, jazz, and various ensemble concerts there. Instrumental music is led by Tom Kramer ’07. The athletics department uses the PAC stage for athlete signing

January 30: Dance Company Performance February 12: Alumni Gospel Concert February 26: Jazz and Percussion Night March 13-14; 20-21: Spring Musical March 28: Grand Celebration - Celebrating 10 YOPA May 9: Evening of the Arts May 16: Theater Awards

days. Students learn to use power tools in stagecraft class. Yoga classes and camps are held in the dance studio. Faculty and staff meetings are held in the space. Area schools and dance companies rent the space for their performances, generating income for GC. “Every admissions event, every school-wide event that has anything presentational wants to use the PAC,” Bautista says. “Having a place that is beautiful, functional, and comfortable elevates the image of the school. It also creates interest and awareness of GC. We have thousands of people visit, including many community youth.” “They really did a nice job of designing a space that was good for us. I have never even had to change the lightbulb in the projector,” she laughs.

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2024-2025 COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Our Lady of Good Counsel High School’s Community Partners Program

The Community Partners Program offers four sponsorship levels that deliver

offers a comprehensive way for local and affiliated businesses to support

broad-based marketing and networking opportunities for alumni, current

our students and our school community. A portion of the membership fees

parents, past parents, and local businesses. Our partners are integral

help build the school’s endowment, securing the future of Good Counsel,

members of the Good Counsel community. If you are interested in joining

and establishing an enduring legacy that will benefit students in perpetuity.

the program, please contact Jessica Laird at jlaird@olgchs.org.

DIAMOND FALCONS $20,000

Celtnieks Family

Sardelis Family

Worch Family

YOUR

BLUE & GOLD BENEFITS

Your Blue & Gold benefits go on all year!

Mention your Blue & Gold membership at participating locations and SAVE!

Exclusive to Good Counsel parents, alumni, and supporters Enjoy annual discounts at a number of local Community Partner organizations Does not expire

How it works: Visit www.olgchs.org/blueandgoldcard for more information about this program. Share the GC love by prioritizing business with our Community Partners whenever possible! Mention your Blue & Gold membership at participating locations and SAVE! If you have a business or organization that you think would be a good fit for our Community Partner program, please contact Jessica Laird, Executive Director of Advancement, at jlaird@olgchs.org or (240) 283-3384 for more information.

Thank you for supporting our students by patronizing our Community Partners!

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2024-2025 COMMUNITY PARTNERS

PLATINUM FALCONS $10,000 Triumph Development, Triumph Custom Homes, Triumph Mountain Properties James Fangmeyer ’83 & Chris Corcoran ’83

O’Connell Family Celtnieks Family Marc Bluestein

Aimee Loebs-Davis & Family Rockville-Olney, Silver Spring North, Laurel, & Greenbelt NE Beltsville E Michelle Gutierrez ’98 & Family Della Rocca Family

Dickerson Family

Campbell Family

GOLD FALCONS $5,000

Potter Family Falcone Family

McCartin Family Joe Garrison, CFP®, AIF®

Carlisle Family

BLUE FALCONS $2,500

Snyder Family

Shioutakon Family

MedStar Montgomery Medical Center

Marty Murphy George Glekas ’91 & Family

Feerick/Snow Family

Olney | Damascus | Wheaton Studio of Dance Shannon Rush-Locke ’94 Olney, Burtonsville, & Laurel

Celebratory Lawn Greetings O’Brien Family Kristi Weaver '96 & Dave Eynon '97

Callis Family Carlos Covarrubias

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ADVANCEMENT

Alumna Endows Scholarship to Support Students with Financial Need In 2024, Consuelo Kendall ’99 established the Gregory-Bowman Endowed Scholarship, which will be awarded annually to an incoming Black freshman student with financial need. The student recipient will receive $1,250 toward tuition and must maintain a GPA of 3.0. Kendall named the scholarship for Cardinal Wilton Gregory and Sister Thea Bowman, two African-Americans who have made lasting contributions to the Catholic Church. Cardinal Gregory was the first AfricanAmerican Cardinal, and Sister Bowman is on the path to sainthood. Kendall believes no student should have to forgo an education from GC because of cost.

“I want to help ensure that students of all backgrounds can access the same opportunities I had as a student,” Kendall says. “I know how hard my parents worked and the sacrifices they made so I could attend Good Counsel, and I will always be grateful for the strong foundation it gave me,” she says. “Through this scholarship, my goal is to support Black students in particular; students who look like me—helping to open doors, easing the financial burden of attendance, and making it possible for them to thrive in a community that has meant so much to me.” Kendall is a litigator in Columbia, Md., and is a member of Good Counsel’s Board of Directors.

Scholarship support is critical to helping talented students receive a Good Counsel education regardless of need. If you are interested in contributing to or launching a scholarship, please contact Jessica Laird, executive director of advancement, at jlaird@olgchs.org. To view scholarships for incoming freshmen, visit www.olghcs.org/admissions/scholarships. To view scholarships benefitting current students, visit www.olgchs.org/scholarships

Estate planning offers donors at every level a powerful opportunity to align their personal values with lasting impact. By including Good Counsel in your estate plans, you help ensure that generations of Falcons will benefit from transformative learning and unforgettable experiences. Many of our most visionary supporters have chosen to leave a legacy through bequests or other tax-smart giving options. These Find out more by contacting Jessica Laird, jlaird@olgchs.org or (240) 283-3384.

30 THE COUNSELOR // 2025

planned gifts are among the most impactful contributions we receive — sustaining a vibrant education and enriching the GC experience for decades to come. Our advancement team is here to help you explore a meaningful gift that reflects your values and supports the mission of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School. Together, we can ensure tomorrow’s Falcons soar even higher.

Visit www.olgchs.org/plannedgift for our estate planning guide.

XXXX CLASS NOTES

CLASS NOTES

2025

2023

The Class of 2025 graduated 25 legacy students.

GC Majorettes Coach, Chelsea Chambers, won the 2024 Miss District of Columbia Teen USA. Chelsea competed in the Miss Teen USA competition making it to the Top 20.

Alphabetically: The Class of 2025 graduated 10 legacy students. Alphabetically with alumnus and graduate: Emily Bosco ’97, Collin Bosco ’25, Daniel Bykowski ’95, Ryan Bykowski ’25, Joseph Cabigas ’82, Soledad Cabigas ’25, Matthew Davis ’90, Jonathan Davis ’25, Christopher DeLisi '90, Ellen DeLisi ’92, Allyson DeLisi ’25, Michelle Gutierrez ’98, Isabella Gutierrez ’25, Maureen Keefe ’95, Joseph Keefe ’25, Timothy Marshall ’87, Catherine Marshall ’25, Marshall Milam ’84, Marshall Milam ’25, Gregory Potter ’91, Aiden Potter ’25

Madison Smith qualified for and competed in the US Olympic Swim Trials in June 2024.

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CLASS NOTES

2021

2020 Ian Coursey has starred in "Dear Evan Hansen" on Broadway, in an upcoming feature film, and will tour the country as Rolf in "The Sound of Music" this fall. (See page 10.) Mitch Melton helped the Ohio State Buckeyes football team win the College Football National Title on January 20. The linebacker appeared in eight games across the last two seasons, achieving 15 tackles and three sacks. A day after the championship, he transferred to the University of Virginia, where he will play this fall.

Bez Mbeng was named the 2025 Ivy League Player of the Year for basketball and won the Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year for the third year in a row. He helped the Yale Bulldogs win the Ivy League tournament before losing a tough game against Texas A&M in the NCAA Tournament. Sports Illustrated featured Mbeng in March and in June he signed with the Golden State Warriors for the NBA Summer League.

2019

Bridgette Kim was a featured panelist during Good Counsel’s Women’s Leadership Circle event in March.

2017

Members of the Class of 2019 at their reunion in October 2024. Talia Skyles has illustrated cover art and inside illustrations for several books and private commissions. (See page 14).

Danny Velado sang the National Anthem at the Washington Nationals game in D.C. on September 15, 2024. He is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in music education at the University of Maryland, studying with countertenor John Holiday, and working with the Mighty Sound of Maryland. Additionally, he received the Frederick Douglass Transfer Scholarship and the Stringer Family Foundation Scholarship at the university. Outside his studies, he continues to be involved with the Brothers Flanagan, an Irish barbershop quartet group with Good Counsel math teacher Chuck Hoag.

32 THE COUNSELOR // 2025

2015

Chad Frick performed at the Alumni Tailgate during Reunion Weekend. The singer-songwriter played guitar for delighted alumni from across the country.

Congratulations Nicole Enabosi, who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics in Women’s Basketball for Team Nigeria.

CLASS NOTES Erik Simmons is a behavioral scientist working to make the world a better place. (See page 11.)

2014

Lauren Freeny graduated from Washington University School of Medicine in May 2024 with a Doctor of Audiology degree (Au.D). During her time, she specialized in Pediatric Audiology. Most recently, Lauren completed her externship year at UNC Pediatric Audiology (Chapel Hill, NC) where she collaborated with team members, performed NICU newborn hearing screenings, conducted auditory brainstem response testing and diagnostic hearing evaluations, completed hearing aid fittings, and counseled many families regarding their child's hearing loss and next steps. After completing her externship year, Lauren has taken her talents to the Fairfax County, Virginia Public Schools, where she serves as an Educational Audiologist. In her role, she supports K-12+ students with auditory needs in the school setting, provides in-service training to teachers, and collaborates with educational teams for optimal outcomes for students who experience hearing loss.

Members of the Class of 2014 at their reunion in October 2024.

Suzi Blake creates illustrations for comics and Web series. (See page 8.)

Members of the Class of 2009 at their reunion in October 2024.

2012 Mia Poulos was a featured panelist during Good Counsel’s Women’s Leadership Circle Panel in March.

Dr. Brian Saway is working to transform spinal surgeries. (See page 12.)

Kerrianne Maloy was a featured panelist during our Women’s Leadership Circle Panel in March.

2009

2011 James Fangmeyer, Jr. was ordained into the priesthood on June 15, 2024, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, surrounded by family and friends. He celebrated his first mass at St. Patrick’s Church in Rockville the next day. Fr. James has been assigned to the Parish of St. Mary of the Assumption in Upper Marlboro, Md., and is enjoying the early days of his priesthood.

Jelani Jenkins facilitated a workshop at Bridging Generations: A Good Counsel Black Alumni Gathering in February. (See page 24.) Mike Wallz performed during Reunion Weekend at the Alumni Tailgate. Pop star Katy Perry asked Wallz to write a verse for her song, E.T., which was included in her Lifetimes Tour in 2025. Congratulations to Evan Kikla, who graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where he is on a scholarship with the United States Navy, in late May. He was matched into one of the orthopedic surgery residency positions at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He and his wife are expecting their first son.

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CLASS NOTES

2005

2008

2001 Erika Doxey-Salazar was a featured panelist during Good Counsel’s Women’s Leadership Circle Panel in March.

Robert Seng and his team, who manage telemetry between Europa Clipper and Earth, were instrumental in the October 2024 launch of the Europa Clipper by a SpaceX Falcon heavy rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Scientists based at the Caltech Jet Propulsion Laboratory as well as the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab (APL) in Laurel, Maryland, intend to remotely explore and study Europa, an iceencapsulated moon of Jupiter, beginning when Europa Clipper arrives in 2030.

Cecilia (Majors) Newman was honored as one of the Top 100 Under 50 Emerging DEI Leaders by Diversity MBA Media. Cecilia and her husband, Paul, welcomed their son, Nathaniel Andrew Newman on March 25th.

2004

2000

2007 Claire Wheeler Desmond was a featured panelist during Good Counsel’s Women’s Leadership Panel in March.

Members of the Class of 2004 at their reunion in October 2024.

2006 Vicki Anagnostopoulos was the Keynote Speaker at Good Counsel’s Women’s Leadership Circle Panel in March.

Victoria Nelson moderated Good Counsel’s Women’s Leadership Circle Panel in March.

34 THE COUNSELOR // 2025

Kim Ferguson has brought girls' flag football to several Maryland high schools through her role with the Ravens NFL team. (See page 13.)

Priscilla Mpasi is the new governorappointed chair for the Delaware Healthy Mother and Infant Consortium, which leads statewide efforts and initiatives to safeguard maternal and infant health, with emphasis on pregnancy complications/deaths and sudden infant death syndrome. She is the first woman and Black person to be appointed in the role’s 20-year history.

1999 John Lander became a Flight Instructor in 2021, and bought his first house in 2024.

2003 Anna Osinski published her first book in December 2024, a collection of poems entitled Swimming Toward the Riptide. Amazon sells the book in Kindle and paperback formats; more information can be found on her website, annaosinski.com.

Members of the Class of 1999 at their reunion in October 2024. Consuelo Kendall was the keynote speaker at Bridging Generations: A Good Counsel Black Alumni Gathering in February.

CLASS NOTES

1995

Weddings Good Counsel

In September, a True Crime Documentary series created by Paul Hogan released on ID and Max. Developed with Michael Day (Transformers, Armageddon) the series is called "Born Evil: The Serial Killer and the Savior" focused on the story of Hadden Clark. (See page 15.)

Adam Bulk ’11 moved to Detroit, MI, in 2019 for his partner's job. He married Nora Winstead in a small ceremony in Ann Arbor, MI, on December 12, 2023. Adam works in the accounting industry remotely in Detroit with his wife and cat, and they are looking to start their family shortly.

1994

Members of the Class of 1994 at their reunion in October 2024. Angelette Aviles facilitated conversation at our “Can Women have it all?” Women’s Leadership Circle Brunch in October.

▲ Danielle (Lanham) Kaminski ’19 & TJ Kaminski ’19, high school sweethearts, married on May 18, 2024.

1993

[photo] Dr. Elizabeth Reeves & her husband, Travis Reeves, led the Class of 2028 Parents in the Parents’ Blessing at the Class of 2028 Convocation as their daughter, Gabbie ’28, was welcomed as a Falcon.

▲ Patrick Finotti ’11 married Megan Seaman on September 13, 2024, surrounded by many friends from Good Counsel including: Katrina (DeGuzman) Purce ’11, Matt Merryman ’11, James Purce ’10, Kerry Mueller ’11, Casey McGlasson ’24, Brian Alexa ’11, Oliver Sangster ’10, Morgan (Dunlow) Merryman ’11, Michelle (Procaccini) Yost ’11, Matt McCarthy ’11, Caileigh (Sindall) Moon ’11, Kevin Stein ’11, Alexis (Prada) Leonard ’11, Monica DeGuzman ’10, Jake Tran ’11, and Jeanette McCarthy.

▲ Griffin Duffy ’14 and Paulina Kozorosky ’13 married in Frederick, MD, on November 9, 2024. (Left to right) Jackie VanWagner ’09, Shannon Beston ’09, CJ Kozorosky ’17, Sophia Kozorosky ’15, Andrea Alvarez ’13, Will Cottle ’28, Paulina Kozorosky ’13, Jack Cottle ’19, Griffin Duffy ’14, Max Gorman ’14, Morgan (Duffy) Moshovitis ’09, Jack Rioux ’14, Gates Frassetto ’14.

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CLASS NOTES Edward Owusu began as Good Counsel’s Principal in July (see page 4).

1992

Christine Lee was a featured panelist during Good Counsel’s Women’s Leadership Circle Panel in March.

1991

Craig Frick received Good Counsel’s Our Lady Award at the 2025 Grand Celebration, which recognizes an individual who has provided outstanding volunteer support and a tremendous commitment to the school.

1985

Scott Lyerly's debut mystery novel, “The Last Line,” was released in July 2024. Featuring a neurodiverse lead character, the fast-paced, suspenseful story explores both theater and Tourette Syndrome (which both the lead character and Scott have). The book is sold by Penguin Random House on Amazon and Kindle. Lyerly has written two other novels.

Tim Tobin published his third book, “The Clarity Advantage: Overcome Ten Communication Pitfalls and Boost Your Influence,” in June 2024. His other books are “Peak Leadership Fitness” (2019) and “Your Leadership Story” (2015).

1984

James and Amanda Fangmeyer and three of their children had a full circle moment at Good Counsel’s Class of 2028 Convocation. Fr. James Fangmeyer ’11 concelebrated the Mass, Joe ’26 acted as Altar Server, and Maggie ’28 officially joined the Good Counsel community. Chuck Morton received the 2025 Br. Bob Arrowsmith ’63 Distinguished Alumnus Award, which recognizes an alumnus who demonstrates a commitment to faith, service, and Good Counsel; who has achieved professional success; and who has made significant contributions to society through leadership, volunteerism, and philanthropy (see page 6).

1980

1989 Members of the Class of 1984 at their reunion in October 2024.

1983 Members of the Class of 1989 at their reunion in October 2024.

Members of the Class of 1983 gathered at Harpoon Hanna’s in July.

36 THE COUNSELOR // 2025

Some members of the Class of 1980 reunited at their 40th Notre Dame reunion. Eric Haas, Kevin McCarthy, Ted Schwartz, and Larry Beckerle.

CLASS NOTES

1979

1974

1965 David Ross retired from Houston Community College in January, 2023, after 34 years of teaching Academic ESL and College Composition.

1964 Members of the Class of 1979 at their reunion in October 2024.

1976

Class of 1976 gathered for their annual Christmas party in Silver Spring.

1975

Members of the Class of 1975 Golden Falcons at the 2025 Graduation in May.

Members of the Class of 1974 at their reunion in October 2024.

1969

Members of the Class of 1969 at their reunion in October 2024.

1967

Six members of the Class of 1964 held a mini-reunion in Davenport, FL. The group has gathered numerous times over the last 30 years to show their Falcon pride. Seated L-R: Dennis Vermillion, Jim Berulis, Tom Darmody. Standing L-R: Fred Wintrich, Wayne Darrall, Charlie Nalen.

Roland Sorenson retired at the end of 2020 after 48 years in all aspects of Mechanical Engineering. He sold his house in Hagerstown, Md., after 33 years there and is completing his first circuit of America full time RVing with his dog, travel trailer, and truck. He visited with his son, Peter, who is stationed in Bremerton, WA and is a Petty Officer 2nd Class on the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier. He has camped in 23 states in the last 13 months and wintered in Arizona for 4 months before heading east following and exploring Route 66.

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CLASS NOTES

Alumni

Affinity

Networks Some of our legendary faculty and staff got together at GC in mid-October to celebrate the good times both then and now. What a reunion! Paul DeStefano, Art Iwanicki, Marcia O’Mara, John McCarthy, Barry Fitzpatrick, Greg Wood, Tom Hilton, Andy Favret, Jay Long, Pat Bates, Pat Redington, Leo Schubert, Cissy Glading, Tim Fitzgibbon, Art Raimo, Kevin Nolan, Rich Seel, Dick Burns, and Doug Dieringer. Marching band alumni played with our current students on the field and in the stands during the Homecoming football game in September 2024.

On Friday, February 21, over 40 Black Alumni and faculty staff gathered for Bridging Generations: A Good Counsel Black Alumni Gathering (see page 40).

Poms alumni performed a routine during halftime of the Homecoming football game in September 2024.

Falcons flocked nationwide during the 2024-25 school year, gathering from New York City to Los Angeles. Enjoy a few images from our Falcons Flock events. Check out our 2025-26 Falcons Flock schedule on page 43.

38 THE COUNSELOR // 2025

Jabari Outtz ’95 Alumni Basketball Game played in October 2023.

CLASS NOTES

Boys Lacrosse Alumni played against our current team in May 2025.

The day after Thanksgiving, alumni of our Girls' and Boys' soccer teams gathered on campus for games.

The 4th Annual Matt Loudon ’18 Alumni Hockey Game was played in December 2024. Alumni played against our current team, raising money for the Matt Loudon ’18 Memorial Endowed Scholarship.

Women’s Leadership Circle events were held in October 2024 and March 2025. (See page 43).

Annual Alumni El Salvador Trip in Summer 2025.

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SPOTLIGHT

Bridging Generations with the

New Black Alumni Group

▲ Alumnae enjoy the Bridging Generations event

▲ Dr. Patricia Thomas ’93, Elizabeth Reeves ’93, and Board Member Michelle Rubie-Smith

If you or anyone you know is interested in participating in future Black Alumni gatherings, please contact Catie Brown ’13, director of alumni engagement, at cbrown@olgchs.org.

40 THE COUNSELOR // 2025

Last February, Our Lady of Good Counsel High School welcomed Black alumni back to campus for an evening of engagement. The event, entitled “Bridging Generations,” was planned by the Office of Alumni Engagement in collaboration with Limnyuy Konglim ’01, chief mission and identity officer, Board Member Consuelo Kendall ’99, and Jelani Jenkins ’09, who has been mentoring Good Counsel student athletes since the summer of 2024.

and why she supports the school, both through donations of her time and talent, as well as her monetary support, most recently in the form of creating a scholarship for Black students.

The gathering focused on celebrating the attendees’ unique journeys as students and alumni, fostering connections with GC and one another, and creating pathways for future generations of Falcons. More than 40 attendees from across five decades enjoyed an evening of meaningful conversations, inspiring stories, and shared goals.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Black alumni gathering, but the night was a really pleasant surprise—great food, meaningful conversations, and a thoughtful mix of structured and unstructured time,” says GC Board Member Claire Wheeler Desmond ’07. “I caught up with old friends and made new connections with alumni from other classes. It was especially interesting to find common ground in our shared experiences with legendary GC teachers, even across different years and decades. I appreciated the chance to reconnect in a space that felt welcoming and reflective.”

Conversations about bringing together GC’s Black alumni began in the summer of 2024, sparked by the establishment of the Gregory-Bowman Scholarship by Kendall. To open Bridging Generations, Konglim welcomed the group and shared a state of the school report. Next, Kendall delivered a keynote address, sharing her experience as an alumna, board member, and donor. She discussed how she became reengaged with GC after graduation

After dinner, Jenkins facilitated a discussion with the attendees about their expectations, hopes, and goals for this gathering and future gatherings of this group, as well as for current and future falcons.

Ideas for future Black Alumni events were discussed and plans to bring this group together more regularly will be made. A Facebook group was started, called “Good Counsel Black Alumni.” Alumni can request to join and follow along for more information.

SPOTLIGHT

Magnificat Award Spotlight

Recognition

a Longtime Coming

Our Lady of Good Counsel High School’s Magnificat Award is given each year to a member of the Good Counsel faculty or staff who enthusiastically “answers the call” to inspire our students to excel, serve, and love. The award recognizes exceptional commitment, exemplified through long-standing tenure, that has an immeasurable impact on our students and school community. This honor was awarded to Ana Lopez at the 2025 Grand Celebration, in recognition of her dedication to students and to GC. For more than 35 years, Lopez has been a fixture in the halls and the classroom at GC. As Dean of Students and a Spanish teacher, Ana blends a big heart with the ability to hold students to a high standard. She is beloved for treating students fairly in discipline matters and going above and beyond for her students and the GC community. She has consistently supported the Fund for Good Counsel and the school’s greatest needs. Indeed, “Ms. Lopez” is one of the first names alumni fondly recollect when speaking about their time at GC. Clara Stroude Vasquez ’96 recalls how Lopez drove her to school almost every day for four years because her mother, a single parent working in D.C., could not. “If it wasn’t for her,” Stroude Vasquez says, “I don’t know what would have happened to me.” The rides to and sometimes home from school created a strong bond between the two. “It was great to have her as an advocate at school; I was more comfortable there because I knew her,” says Stroude Vasquez. “She was like a second mom to me in some respects.

Ms. Lopez was so friendly and sweet, but still held me accountable. She was really instrumental in my success in high school.”

▲ Ana Lopez, 2025

Magnificat Award winner

GC Social Studies Teacher Laura Fess ’04 says, “For me, there is no one who makes GC feel like home more than Ana Lopez, or as I like to call her A-Lo (a nickname earned during her many years as the Poms Coach, if you know, you know)!” “It was when she was my coach and Spanish teacher that I first came to know what a kind, supportive, and loving person she is,” Fess says. “Since then, she has held a variety of roles and dedicated countless hours to support our students and faculty. I can imagine dramatically running directly into her arms (something I have done often, even as an adult, if we are being honest) and getting the biggest hug back - no matter what.” “You do not meet Ana Lopez and remain unchanged,” Fess says. “GC and all of us are better because of her.”

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EVENTS RECAP

SOCIETY Celebration More than 200 GC supporters attended the Society Celebration dinner on December 3, 2025. The evening celebrates the philanthropic impact our donors make on the GC community.

The next Society Celebration dinner is scheduled for November 13, 2025.

MARIO Fest 42nd Annual Steve Dean

GOLF CLASSIC Nets Over $20,000

The Steve Dean Golf Classic brought generous sponsors, community partners, alumni and friends to Manor Country Club in September 2024, and netted over $20,000 for the Steve Dean ’67 Memorial Scholarship. This year’s Classic will be held on September 15.

42 THE COUNSELOR // 2025

In September, GC celebrated the 70th birthday and 37 years of service of GC legend, Mario Gonzalez, with “Mario Fest” was held inside Kline Stadium before the football game against Riverdale Baptist. In honor Mario, GC also launched the Spirit of Mario scholarship drive. If $25,000 is raised, the scholarship will support a current GC student who embodies the spirit of Mario and contributes to the GC community.

50TH Reunion

Golden Falcons at Graduation Members of the Class of 1975 joined faculty and staff on the altar during the Commencement for the Class of 2025.

EVENTS RECAP

ALL in for ALL FALCONS at

GRAND Celebration REUNION Weekend Classes ending in 0 and 5 are encouraged to join us for Reunion Weekend 2025 from October 10-11; for more information visit www.olgchs.org/reunions.

▲ 2025 Visionary Award Recipients The Good Counsel community went All in For All Falcons at the 37th Annual Grand Celebration. This year’s Casino Royale-themed gala doubled down as a grand event to support the Fund for Good Counsel and the school’s greatest needs. Together, our community raised over $170,000.

Distinguished Alumnus of the Year; Craig ’89 and Julie Frick, the Our Lady Award recipients; Dave and Phyllis Bottegal, our 1958 Cornerstone Award recipients; Ana Lopez, the Magnificat Award recipient; and Chris and Mo Worch, our Concordia Award recipients.

At the event, we also celebrated our 2025 Visionary Recipients, celebrating eight esteemed members of the Good Counsel community. We are grateful to Chuck Morton ’83, the Brother Bob Arrowsmith ’63

Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 28, 2026, and plan to join us for what promises to be an unforgettable 38th Grand Celebration.

Classes ending in 4 and 9 gathered for Reunion Weekend festivities, beginning with a campus tour and an alumni tailgate in Kline Stadium with musical performances by Chad Frick ’19 and Mike Wallz ’09. On Saturday night, reunion classes gathered in the Alumni Gallery for music, food, and reconnection.

WOMEN LEADERSHIP Events

In October during Reunion Weekend and again in March, GC welcomed alumnae who are thought leaders in their fields to Good Counsel Women’s Leadership Circle events, including panel discussions and networking receptions.

COOKIES & COCOA

The annual Cookies & Cocoa with Santa event held in December was fun for all as future Falcons came to campus for holiday cheer.

For information about getting involved with the Women's Leadership Circle, email Jessica Laird at jlaird@olgchs.org. Our next event will be held on October 11, 2025.

2025-2026

FALCONS FLOCK Schedule

Connect with other Good Counsel Alumni in your area. October 21-23 - Falcons Flock New York City February 16-20 - Falcons Flock Florida April 13-17 - Falcons Flock California May 14 - Falcons Flock MD/DE Beaches All dates are subject to change.

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SAVE THE DATE

save the date Upcoming Events 2025-2026

admissions deadlines and activities

2025

2025

September 8-10

Founders Day

September 15

Mid-September

8th Grade Shadow Visits

Steve Dean ’67 Golf Classic

September 26

Sibling and Legacy Day

September 26

Legacy Admissions Breakfast

September 30

Parent Information Night

September 26

Homecoming Football Game

October 26

Open House

October 10 & 11

Reunion Weekend (Classes Ending in 0 & 5)

November 7

8th Grade Invitation to Football Game

October 21–23

Falcons Flock New York City

November 3

Alumni Memorial Mass

December 5

November 13

Good Counsel Giving Society Celebration

Application and Need-based Tuition Assistance (FACTS) application deadline

December 13

Athletic Hall of Fame Induction

December 6

HSPT Exam

2026

2026 February 12

Alumni Gospel Concert

February 16–20

Falcons Flock Florida

February 25

Day of Giving

March 19

Falcons Flock DMV

March 28

Grand Celebration

April 13–17

Falcons Flock California

April 21

Celebration of Scholarships

April 24

Distinguished Alumnus Award and Mass

May 14

Falcons Flock MD/DE Beaches

May 21

Graduation

Month of January

Campus Tours led by the Parents Association Interviews will take place throughout January 2026 for all applicants based on program interest

February 26

Admissions Decisions Mailed

February 27

Admissions Decisions Emailed

March 10

Accepted Students Event

March 13

Freshman Registration Dates are subject to change.

For more information on our alumni events

44 THE COUNSELOR // 2025

IN MEMORIAM

We remember the following Falcons that have passed away. May their spirits soar high. Russ Arlotta ’74 Steven DeLuca ’83 Ed Donohue ’62 Glenn Duncan ’83 Brian Eckenrode ’87 John Erskine ’63 Dennis Essig Andrew Gido ’18 Mike Gretschel ’65 Ruthanne Lopez Robert Lyons ’68 Robert Merlini ’86 Jerry Mundell ’67 Jim Mundell ’67 James (Jay) O’Leary ’74 Gloria Poulos John Russell ’89 Tom Scafide ’73 Edward Tappe, III ’61 Dennis Vermillion ’64 Ralph Weschler ’63

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list based on notifications of alumni who passed between June 2024 and May 2025.

17301 Old Vic Boulevard | Olney, Maryland 20832 PARENTS OF ALUMNI If this issue is addressed to a son or a daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify Catie Brown ’13, director of alumni engagement, at cbrown@olgchs.org or use the below QR code to update their contact information. Learn About Us at OLGCHS.org

FOREVER A FALCON

The Counselor 2025

A Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School