G R E A T E R
C I N C I N N A T I ’ S
J E S U I T
H I G H
S C H O O L Winter 2022
TR ANSFORMATIONA L! Winter 2022
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From the President Like many of you, my wife and I enjoyed the Christmas holidays with our family, especially with our five grandchildren. Our time together made me wonder what their world will be like by the time they are in high school. Thinking about the future energizes me as St. Xavier works on its strategic continuous improvement plan, called St. Xavier 200 (see page 13). What will the school environment at St. Xavier be like at our 200-year anniversary and in the years that follow when my grandchildren and yours are attending St. Xavier? What challenges exist that might need to be addressed today? It is not hard to see that some of our current barriers are significant. The Long Blue Line gives me reason to never have doubts!
It is an exciting time for St. Xavier High School, and we are grateful for all of you who are transforming the lives of the young men in our care-now and future generations of Men for Others. It is no secret that one of the biggest barriers for students is the cost of a St. Xavier education. Harry ’59 and Linda Fath understand this issue, and we are thankful for their $50 million gift towards the St. Xavier Tuition Assistance Fund. Their gift kicks off the $200 million comprehensive fundraising campaign, part of St. Xavier 200. Their transformational generosity helps to set an example of generosity for many more donors to give back to future members of the Long Blue Line.
Tim Reilly ’76
The comprehensive campaign will support the strategic initiatives in St. Xavier 200. St. Xavier 200 will secure St. X’s affordability for qualified young men, rejuvenate and enhance our facilities and programs, and secure a path of sustainable tuition for future generations of St. Xavier students. Some of the articles in this issue illustrate how we are well on our way to a successful campaign. The Fath’s lead gift transforms our fundraising for endowing tuition assistance. We have already tackled some building and campus improvements thanks to the many donors to the Keating Natatorium. And our new Fine Arts Hall of Fame honors those who have made significant contributions to fine arts at St. Xavier and beyond. The induction ceremony (page 11) will also raise funds to endow our fine arts programs, therefore leading us on the path to mitigating future tuition increases. It is an exciting time for St. Xavier High School, and we are grateful for all of you who are transforming the lives of the young men in our care-now and future generations of Men for Others. AMDG
Tim Reilly ’76 President
Inside this Issue
ADMINISTRATION Mr. Timothy J. Reilly ’76, President Rev. Walter C. Deye SJ ’66, Rector Mr. Daniel J. Lynch, Principal Mr. Jonathan C. Ivec, Vice President for Operations & CFO Mr. Anthony E. Schad ’81, Vice President of Advancement
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mr. Gregory G. Achten ’82 - Co-Vice Chair Mr. Robert E. Carroll ’76 Mr. Michael E. Dahm Rev. Walter C. Deye, SJ ’66 - Co-Vice Chair Mr. Michael J. Ehrensberger ’61 Mr. Brian J. Fitzgerald ’91 Dr. Colleen M. Hanycz Mrs. Toi C. Jones Mr. Adam T. Mueller ’96 Rev. William J. Murphy, SJ Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ Mr. Vivek Ramaswamy ’03 Mr. Andrew N. Recker ’97 Mr. Timothy J. Reilly ’76 Mrs. Mabe Rodriguez Steigerwald Mr. Mark M. Ryan ’91 Mr. Timothy J. Steigerwald ’83 Mrs. Linnell R. Sullivan Rev. Eric M. Sundrup, SJ Mr. Nicholas J. Vehr ’77 - Chair Rev. Nathan C. Wendt, SJ
11 Celebrating the Arts:
12 Harry ’59 and Linda Fath:
The Inaugural Fine Arts Hall of Fame Event
$50 million Transformational Gift Kicks off The St. Xavier $200 million Campaign
14 Keating Natatorium Restoration Updates to an Iconic Space
16 Preserving Our History: The Restoration of the 1840-1869 St. Xavier Register
CONTRIBUTORS Joyce A. Bowman Cathy M. Cionni David V. Clapp Christine L. Dauenhauer Grace E. DeGregorio Heidi B. Eveleigh Harry Fath ’59 Edmund L. Franchi Eric M. Gammarino ’09 Ellen K. Gormley Cara L. Hester W. Matthew Keith ’93 Nicholas B. Kemper ’06 Richard P. Klus Wayne Box Miller Ralph A. Nardini ’77 John M. Niehaus ’64 Heidi A. O’Connor Anthony E. Schad ’81 Stephen R. Specht ’86 Andrew E. Sweeny ’68
EDITOR Becky Schulte
DESIGNER Jon Enia ’97, makercreative.com
Cover Photo: Harry ’59 and Linda Fath give $50 million to St. Xavier. The largest gift in school history.
PRINTING
Above Photo: Fr. Terry Baum SJ dedicates the newly renovated Keating Natatorium.
Joseph Berning Printing Company St. Xavier Magazine is published three times a year by the alumni, advancement and communications offices. St. Xavier High School 600 W. North Bend Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45224-1499 Phone: (513) 761-7815 ext. 121 http://www.stxavier.org e-mail: bschulte@stxavier.org
ALUMNI HOT LINE Direct all Letters to the Editor, address changes, or other correspondence to the above address. Postmaster: Send address corrections to: St. Xavier Magazine, 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, OH 45224-1499.
02 WE ARE ST. X 07 REMEMBERING PAUL J. BORGMANN ’58
18 ALUMNI REFLECTION - JOHN NIEHAUS ’64 19 ALUMNI X-CERPTS & X-PEDITIONS
08 PRESIDENT’S DINNER RECAP 25 CALENDAR 09 X-TRAVAGANZA 10 VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Winter 2022
St. Xavier High School Magazine
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We are St. Xavier News and notes around the St. Xavier campus
Feast of St. Xavier On December 2 the St. Xavier community gathered for Mass in celebration of the Feast of St. Xavier. Celebrant Fr. Bill Murphy SJ, offered a moving homily about how ‘breakdowns bring about break throughs’ citing the example of St. Ignatius’ cannonball moment. Music was provided by students in the Liturgical Music group. The celebration included the song, “These Alone are Enough” as we continued our Ignatian Year Reflection.
College Board: National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars The College Board National Hispanic Recognition Program named Alex Gansler ’23 and Benjamin Trujillo ’23 as scholars. Congratulations!
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A Christmas Program On December 1 and 2, Ensemble X, Xmen, Jazz Band, Concert Band, Chamber Blues and the Rhythm ‘n’ Blue groups gathered to present A Christmas Program to live audiences. The students mixed acapella voice, choral, strings, Jazz instruments and more to create a diverse presentation of inspirational and fun music styles. Led by Choirs Director, Angelo Sylvester, Bands Director, Dr. Jody Besse, and Strings Director, Isaac Watras, the students were able to highlight their talents often participating in multiple disciplines. Thank you to Ted Seaman, accompanist on piano.
Alumni Chapter Leads Student to Success The members of the St. Xavier Indianapolis Alumni Chapter have created the Indianapolis Alumni Chapter Scholarship. In keeping with the educational vision of St. Ignatius Loyola, 40 percent of St. X students will receive needbased tuition assistance amounting to more than $4.3 million for the 20212022 school year. Four years ago, members of the Indianapolis chapter saw the growing need and joined together as a group to sponsor a student. The student they sponsored with the initiative was Elijah Smith ’21. Over Elijah’s four years at St. Xavier, he not only met and networked with the Indianabased benefactors, but he was able to thrive as a student. He became a fellow alum upon graduation in May of 2021. The members of the Indianapolis St. Xavier alumni chapter are now sponsoring a second student and wish to challenge other chapters to sponsor more students to join the ranks of the Long Blue Line with a scholarship gift!
Annual Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice Pictured is the St. X/St. Ursula Academy delegation of the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice. The group researched issues of social relevance and presented their ideas to members of Congress at the first in-person gathering since 2019. The participating St. Xavier students were: Seniors: Matthew Carmen-Ugaz Seth (Andrew) Conover Eric Givens-Chapman Will Kerrey Ryan King Andrew Klus Nick Maurer Doug Thorne
Juniors: Brodie Custer Will Darrah Bentley Meyer Evan Stadler Sam Warren Johnny Yost
Sophomores: Eric (Carter) Enslein Benji Strasser
Mass of the Immaculate Conception The St. Xavier community gathered by class for the Celebration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th. Rather than an all-school Mass, each class gathered in either the Chapel of the Holy Companions or the theater to celebrate with their classmates.
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Career ConneXions Siemens Partnership Helps Boost Summer Internship Program St. Xavier is excited to announce a partnership with Siemens for summer internships. “Students will get realworld experience using computer aided design (CAD) and other engineering tools.” They will also have an opportunity to use a number of Siemens tools such as product data management (PDM), simulation, digital manufacturing and execution
Leading the Drive Our community finished the 93rd annual food drive with freshman and sophomore homerooms collecting over 67,500 pounds of food and junior and senior homerooms delivering the food they collected directly to 25 different food banks. It’s great to celebrate big totals, but even greater to celebrate our students working together to give to our neighbors in need of a little extra help.
system (MES) software. These are outstanding opportunities for students to learn new skills and foster growth. Students are actively looking for internship hosts for the summer of 2022. If you or someone you know is interested in hosting students, please contact Christine Dauenhauer, Program Director, at stxcareerconnections@stxavier.org.
Inaugural Trever Hoelker ’09 Memorial Golf Outing On Friday, October 22nd, the Inaugural Trever Hoelker Memorial Golf Outing took place at Aston Oaks golf course on the west side of Cincinnati, Ohio. Trever, a 2009 graduate, lived life to its fullest impacting everyone he met with an infectious smile and remarkable personality. A tough competitor, Trever battled cancer and fought the good fight yet passed away on June 9th, 2020 at the young age of 30. His parents, Jeff and Karen, brothers, Brian ’04 and Kyle ’06, fiancé, Lindsay Silva and classmates, Doug Sammons ’09 and Jon Schroeder ’09 established the “Trever Hoelker Scholarship Fund” in July of 2020. In roughly 18 months, Trever’s scholarship fund has raised more than $150,000 including more than $18,000 from the outing. Remarkable numbers for such a short period of time. Trever’s spirit reminds us that we weren’t placed on this earth to simply amuse ourselves, more so, we were sent forth to “strive for the Magis,” to leave the world better than we found it. Trever lived every day with these principles at the forefront of everything he did. He lived the prayer of generosity as well as anyone. “Lord teach us to be generous, to serve you as you deserve to give and not to count the cost to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labor and not to ask for any reward, save that of knowing we are doing your will.” By Steve Specht
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(left to right) Jeff Hoelker, Lindsay Silva, Kyle Hoelker ’06 and Caren Hoelker (former staff member).
Lives of the Saints The Fall performance of David Ives’ Lives of the Saints was a hit! Running for two weekends, November 12-14 and November 18-20 students took the stage for several in-person performances in the Walter C. Deye Performance Center. The production was described as, “This is not Butler’s stories of the heavenly saints, but rather a comedic, abstract look at everyday stories of daily miracles and the simple saints that invite us to reflect upon our experience. These seven one-acts can confuse and leave questions unresolved, but the tales they portray seek to make life better.” St. Xavier English teacher, Sean Cahill had this enthusiastic endorsement after opening night, “The script demands that the students stretch themselves and they do. To a person, their performances were remarkable. I was especially impressed by the ingenuity and energy behind the acting. The set, lighting, and sound were also perfect. Not a glitch onstage or around it the entire night. Really very impressive. Well done, TX! My family and I had a genuinely good (and thought provoking) time!”
HBCU Presentation Representatives from HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) spent time on the campus of St. Xavier High School December 9, 2021 for a roundtable to talk about the values and benefits of attending their member institutions. Represented among them were doctors, IT executives, engineers, and Health Care practitioners. In addition, the students learned the cultural advantages of attending an HBCU and how it contributed to their successful careers. Thank you to presenters: Brianna Miles – Tuskegee University Chuck Baszile – Morehouse College Toriano Franklin – A&T University Eric and Rukeyser Thompson – Alcorn State University By Wayne Miller
Mock Trial Success!
Riversweep
Congratulations Mock Trial Bombers who competed in the Miami University Invite.
Students in Dr. Laughlin’s AP Environmental Science Class spent a day in October participating in the Ohio River Mini Sweep. Students volunteered to clean up around Caldwell Park and along the banks of Mill Creek. Students collected many bags of trash and even reclaimed the remains of a shopping cart. After cleaning up along the trails and banks, students collected water samples to analyze for macro/micro invertebrates as well as monitoring the overall health of the water Mill Creek.
St. X Team Red placed second overall! Plus, Team Blue’s Oscar Haughey won an individual award for best witness and Team Red’s Kyle Macasilli-Tan won for best attorney. Congratulations! The Red Team is Pictured: Eric Salem Charles Walsh Ali Hussain Kyle Macasilli-Tan Aaron Cosby Will Kerrey Jack Nicely Aarav Kukreja Coaches: Jack Goldberg Brian Hoesl
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Signing Day St. Xavier High School hosted two National Signing Day ceremonies this year for our student athletes. One was held on Wednesday, November 10 and another on December 15. Parents, faculty, and students congratulated the young men as they signed their intent to compete athletically in higher education. Congratulations to the following seniors: November 10, 2021 Aaron Blum - Baseball - University of Kentucky Simeon Graves Jr. - Baseball - University of Louisville December 15, 2021 Sam Buerkle - Football - Fordham University Cam Collins - Football - Air Force Academy Grant Lyons - Football - Miami University Brian Parker II - Football - Duke University
Dennis M. and Lois A. Doyle Family Foundation Seedling Program
Dennis M. and Lois A. Doyle The Doyle Family Foundation Seedling Program has over the last 15 years been instrumental in St. Family Foundation Xavier increasing its endowment by over $12M. Our Advancement team has identified supporters who we believe could co create an endowed scholarship. The Doyle’s plant a “Seed” of $10K or more Program and families agree to grow the seedSeedling by making a matching contribution and further fund the
Students Research Global Issues Students in the Global Perspectives elective, taught by Therese Bower, investigated a global issue of particular interest to them. After researching and consulting with an expert, they created proposals to positively impact the selected issue in some way and shared ideas to invited guests.
Congratulations to the students who researched these issues: Colin Jarczyk - Air Pollution Adam Peters - Ocean Acidification Trey Breitbeil - Palm Oil and Its Environmental Impact Connor Mulligan - The Health Impact of Microplastics J.D. Sniegocki - Immigration in the Media Andrew Scheve - Clean and Sustainable Energy Aaron Peters - Gender Disparity in Education George Fisher - Responsible Investment and its Impact on the Climate Crisis Demetrius (Meech) Ashley - The Effect of Covid on Education Each student also wrote a prayer related to his topic and the Universal Apostolic Preferences. The prayers have been compiled THE DOYLE in an e-book.
endowment to $50 K over a designated number of
The Doyle Family Foundation Seedling Program has over the last 15 years Theincreasing family also agrees to become a member been instrumental inyears. St. Xavier its endowment by over $12M. of our Our Advancement team has identified supporters who we believe could coFather Edward Wieber S.J.a “Seed” Societyofby making a create an endowed scholarship. The Doyles plant $10K or more legacy gift of at least $50 K. Donors are matched and families agree to grow the seed by making a matching contribution and with a particular student receiving aid equivalent further fund the endowment to $50 K over a designated number of years. to thetoincome their giftEdward and areWieber invited The family also agrees become aproduced member ofbyour Father SJ Society by makingtoa meet legacytheir gift ofstudent at least $50 at aK. Donors are matched with a particular student receiving aid equivalent reception every Spring to the income produced by their gift and are invited to meet their student at a reception every Spring MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON A YOUNG MAN’S LIFE BY PARTICIPATING INMAKE THE DOYLE FOUNDATION A FAMILY POSITIVE IMPACT SEEDLING PROGRAM
A YOUNG MAN’S LIFE All funds contributed to your endowedIN scholarship will become part of the St. BY PARTICIPATING Xavier endowment fund. A portion of the income earned, as determined by FAMILY FOUNDATION SEEDLING PROGRAM the Board of Trustees, shall be utilized each year to fund a tuition assistance scholarship for one or more students.
All funds contributed to your endowed scholarship will become part of the St. Xavier endowment For fund. portion of the moreAinformation regarding income earned, as determined by the Board of Trustees, shall the Doyle Foundation Seedling be utilized each year to fund a tuition assistance scholarship program or the St. Xavier Annualfor one or more students. Fund, you can contact St. Xavier Vice President for Advancement,
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For more information regarding the Doyle Tony SchadFoundation at Tschad@stxavier.org Seedling program or the St. XavierorAnnual you can by phoneFund, at 513-618-3228 contact St. Xavier Vice President for Advancement, Tony Schad at Tschad@stxavier.org or by phone at 513-618-3228
St. Xavier High School Magazine Winter 2022
ON
Remembering the Legacy of Paul J. Borgmann ’58 Information compiled by Richard P. Klus, Nicholas B. Kemper ’06 and Tony E. Schad ’81 This past November 3 the St. Xavier community lost a legendary leader with the passing of Paul J. Borgmann from the St. Xavier Class of 1958. As a student at St. Xavier, Paul was class president and was involved in Sodality, the X-Club as well as football and track. He entered the Jesuits shortly after graduating from St. X. He earned an A.B., M.A. and M. DIV from Loyola University in Chicago. He began teaching at St. Xavier in 1971 in the religion department and was chair of the department during the 1975-76 school year. Paul was named the 37th President of St. Xavier High School and began his service to the school on July 1, 1976. During his St. Xavier presidency many significant changes and impactful events occurred: •
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In 1977 the first “lay” board members were appointed and included Bill Besl ’45, Bill Blum ’38, Clem Buenger ’44, Mike Conaton and Paul Sittenfeld. During the incredible winter of 1977, St. X was closed by CG & E and, under Borgmann’s direction, classes were moved back downtown to the Mabley and Carew Company. New concrete bleachers were built and named after Tom Ballaban and the Bombers had a new 4,500 seat stadium. With that, Harry Foley ’27, whose construction company built the bleachers, donated a new cinder running track. It was the first track St. Xavier had on campus. For the 1978-79 school year Borgmann appointed the school’s first “lay” principal, Mr. Mike Trainor. In 1979 the school’s first President’s Dinner was held in honor of the newly formed St. Francis Xavier Society, which is still the backbone of fundraising to this day.
• •
•
• • • •
•
In 1979 Sr. Grace Marie Hiltz, S.C. was the first woman appointed to the Board of Trustees In 1981 the 150th anniversary of the school was celebrated with numerous events including, May Fete festival, Sesquicentennial Speakers Series, Founders Day Mass and Brunch with Xavier University, and the newly established Magis award for service was awarded to Mike Conaton. The Magis Campaign was directed and raised $2.9 million for endowment for faculty salaries, student financial aid and building and grounds maintenance. In 1983 Paul Sittenfeld was appointed the first “lay” chairman of the board of trustees. The Boys Hope program came to the St. X campus in the fall of 1983. In 1984 St. X was one of the 60 schools honored nationwide by the Exemplary Private Schools Recognition Project. The St. X Legacy of Leaders Campaign, conducted from 1988 through 1990, raised more than $11 million and helped to complete such projects as the Barrett Center, construction of the Jesuit residence on View Place and increased the school’s endowment for need-based tuition assistance. Paul Borgmann completed his 15-year presidency at St. Xavier on June 30, 1991. He still holds the longest tenure of any St. Xavier High School president.
Paul’s sense of humor, contagious laugh and spirit will be missed and his legacy of accomplishment for the mission of St. Xavier High School will never be forgotten. His family has requested memorials be sent to the Borgmann Family Scholarship in care of St. Xavier High School.
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President’s Dinner Gary Gruber ’73 addresses guests
St. Xavier High School benefactors and supporters gathered for the
Faculty and staff members were recognized for their 25 years of dedicated
annual President’s Dinner on Tuesday, October 12. The 2020 dinner
service to the St. Xavier community. Thank you to those who were
was postponed because of COVID but was an exciting event for 2021.
recognized for reaching this milestone in 2020: Mr. Theodore R.
President Tim Reilly ’76 welcomed guests and thanked them for their
Mechley, Sr. ’89, Mr. Thomas E. Mills, Mr. Michael M. Odioso ’81 and
continued support of St. Xavier students. As guests arrived, they were
Ms. Heather K. Nardini and to those recognized in 2021 Ms. Cheryl
greeted by the melodic tones of the St. Xavier Jazz Band.
L. Asper, Mr. John P. Cole ’85, Ms. Diane M. Seifert and Mr. Stephen R. Specht ’86.
Rev. Terrence A. Baum SJ provided the opening prayer and guests enjoyed dinner music provided by the St. Xavier Strings Ensemble.
St. Xavier High School board of trustee members from 2020, Mrs. Constance L. Perme, Rev. Patrick A. Fairbanks SJ, Mr. Robert W.
The choral group Ensemble X performed the National Anthem and then
Dieckman, Jr. ’82 and from 2021, Mr. Gary J. Gruber ’73 and Mr.
delighted guests with the musical performances of the songs “Joshua Fit the
Michael P. O’Rourke ’86 and Rev. Michael J. Graham SJ were honored
Battle” by Ramon Gonzales, “Prayer of the Children” by Kurt Bestor and
and thanked for their service.
“Lean on Me with We Shall Overcome” by Mark Hayes. Mr. Michael J. Ehrensberger ’61 was recognized and received the 2020 St. X past Board Chairman Mr. Gary J. Gruber ’73 and current Chairman
Magis Award. The Magis award recognizes and honors those who have
Mr. Nicholas J. Vehr ’77 reviewed the past few years, and the success St.
made an exceptional contribution of service to St. Xavier High School. Mr.
Xavier has seen during the most recent trying times.
Timothy J. Schroeder ’75 received the 2020 Insignis Award. The Insignis Award is the highest honor that can be bestowed on an alumnus. It recognizes a graduate who has served God, family and community in an outstanding manner. The evening concluded with a note of thanks from Mr. Reilly to all in attendance for their support not only financially, but through prayer and volunteer service as well.
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Mr. Michael J. Ehrensberger ’61 and Mr. Timothy J. Schroeder ’75.
T H E
L O N G
B L U E
L I N E
Our St. X Family
X-Travaganza is an annual St. Xavier High School tradition which brings together the parents, alumni and friends of St. Xavier to enjoy fun events while supporting the students. We are pleased to bring this X-citing event back IN PERSON this year! While grateful for the tremendous support given by our patrons to last year’s virtual event, our committees are enjoying planning X-Travaganza 2022: Celebrate the Long Blue Line – Our St. X Family. This theme reflects the purpose of X-Travaganza, whose proceeds directly benefit all St. Xavier students by funding educational programs and cocurriculars that contribute to the students’ development as Men for Others. Opening Party – There’s No Place Like the St. X Family – will be held Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 7 to 10 p.m. in the Ellis Gym. Guests will enjoy this casual evening of food, drinks, music, raffles, baskets and exclusive Silent Auction items. Opening Party is an informal opportunity to meet new friends, reconnect with fellow St. Xavier supporters and enjoy a fun atmosphere that includes a performance from St. Xavier’s acclaimed music groups. Opening Party Chair Jennie Tiemeyer will create an evening of excitement you won’t want to miss! New this year, Silent Auction opens Tuesday, March 1, 2022, giving everyone an opportunity to bid on items posted online. The main event, X-Travaganza 2022: Celebrate the Long Blue Line – Our St. X Family, takes place Saturday, March 5. Mass will be held in the chapel at 5 p.m., with the dinner auction moving this year to the Berning Gym - which will be transformed into a welcoming gathering space worthy of a warm family reunion! The fun begins with a variety of raffles, open bar and tasty appetizers to enjoy while browsing the many Silent Auction items on display - only guests in attendance at X-Travaganza that night will be able to bid on these items. The Grand Raffle drawing for cash prizes of $20,000, $10,000 and $5,000 brings an exciting start to the delectable sitdown meal, with the fast-moving Live Auction starting at 7:30 p.m. The X-ceptional items presented are sure to grab your attention to bid – everything from naming rights of the St. X driveway to a fabulous trip to Palm Springs! X-Travaganza 2022 Chairs, the Klare Family - Susan and Andy ’87, Karen and Dan ’85, Bob ’83 and Lisa and John ’82 - promise a memorable event!
Make your X-Travaganza reservations and purchase Grand Raffle Tickets online at www.stxavier.org/xtravaganza
SAVE THE DATE X-Travaganza Golf Outing – MAY 23, 2022
at Oasis Golf Club for more information www.stxavier.org/xtravgolf
Opening Party There’s No Place Like the St. X Family – SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26
X-Travaganza Celebrate the Long Blue Line – Our St. X Family SATURDAY, MARCH 5
Our appreciation goes out to the hundreds of volunteers, donors and sponsors whose countless hours make these unforgettable events possible. This collective generosity and enthusiasm creates a unique opportunity for fun and purpose, with proceeds benefiting all the young men of St. Xavier. Your ongoing support of X-Travaganza – whether being part of an event, purchasing Grand Raffle tickets, donating gifts for the auctions, volunteering or numerous other roles – fulfills the long-standing tradition of student support by the St. X community. Winter 2022
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Vice President’s Message Tony Schad ’81
This past fall was my 16th year calling Bomber football play-by-play
He was a phenomenal teacher who could talk baseball as well as
with my partner Ralph Nardini ’77. One of the great things we get
poetry. He could mesh anything going on during the time with
to do each year are halftime interviews with alumni who have made
something from the great classics. The entire time I had him in class,
an impact on St. Xavier High School. A question I like to ask an
and then later as a co-worker, I never heard him raise his voice, but he
alumnus is “Who from your time at St. Xavier would make your
always had my attention. I was always interested in what he had
St. Xavier High School Mt. Rushmore? ”
to say.
Sometimes the answer is surprising. The answers range from former
Not only was Mr. Hussong one of my favorite teachers, but he was
teachers to coaches to staff members. Some are very consistently
also a favorite of my son, Andrew, as well. I remember my son playing
named among those mentioned. I say this because this past October
a varsity baseball game for the Bombers on the road back in 2013
we lost one of those people whose name always comes up during that
and there in the stands cheering the boys on was Mr. Hussong. He
discussion. At the age of 87, and having given 50 years of his life to
delighted in Bomber victories and always supported our students,
the mission of St. Xavier High School, we said goodbye to a member
inside and outside the classroom.
of my “St. X Mt. Rushmore,” Mr. John Hussong. So, as you learn of all the wonderful things happening at St. X, and as we prepare to celebrate two hundred years of St. X educating young
“...thank you to our incredible team of educators, staff and administrators who have followed Mr. Hussong’s lead in working with our students.”
men here in southwest Ohio, there are those like Mr. John Hussong who have paved the way for the magic that happens here daily. With that in mind, thank you to our incredible team of educators, staff and administrators who have followed Mr. Hussong’s lead in working with our students. And thank you to you, our alumni, friends, and parents who financially support the mission of this school each year. As we do with Mr. Hussong, we stand on your shoulders and move
Mr. Hussong (sorry, as a former
forward. After 50 years of educating young men in the tradition of
student of his I never really
the Jesuits, no one has been any better than John Hussong. It was
could call him John), had such
mentioned in Mr. Hussong’s obituary that one of the last things he
an impact on so very many St.
did was listen to our radio broadcast of a St. Xavier victory. I’d like
Xavier students. I was one of
to think that brought a smile to his face. I know Mr. Hussong has
those students. While I was never
brought many smiles to thousands of faces… including mine.
in contention to be on the St. X Quiz team, which he moderated,
AMDG
I did have him as a teacher in the classroom for both Creative Mr. John Hussong
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Writing and Literature of War.
St. Xavier High School Magazine Winter 2022
Tony Schad Vice President of Advancement
S A V E THE D A T E S T. X A V I E R ’ S I N A U G U R A L
Fine Arts Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Among St. Xavier’s many traditions are the outstanding Fine Arts programs. On April 28, 2022 St. Xavier will celebrate is inaugural Fine Arts Hall of Fame class. The following inductees were chosen because of their contributions and accomplishments in theatre, music, writing, and visual arts, and graduated or served at least 10 years before our induction event.
April 28, 2022 | 7 p.m. Tickets available beginning March 1, 2022 www.stxavier.org/finearts/halloffame
This year’s inaugural class includes:
Andy Blankenbuehler ’88 Theatre
Phil DeGreg ’72 Music
Linda (Donahue) Mace Theatre
Michele Mascari Theatre
Mary Ann Meyer Visual Arts
Patrick Osborne ’99 Visual Arts
David Quammen ’66 Author
Michael Sparough SJ Theatre
If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please contact Ed Franchi at efranchi@stxavier.org or Steve Specht at sspecht@stxavier.org Winter 2022
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Harry and Linda Fath $ 50 Million Gift Transforming the lives of future Men for Others In the fall of 2019, Harry attended a St. Xavier football game with current president Tim Reilly. In their discussions, Harry asked Tim the same question he had asked other presidents regarding cash flow and if any qualified students are lost because of the cost at St. X. Tim conveyed that unfortunately there are still qualified students that choose not to come to St. Xavier because of the cost, even though 42% of our students receive more than $4.2 million in need-based assistance annually. The economic challenge is very real for many families. When Harry asked how many, Reilly answered that we believe an average of 25 students a year (100 students in four years) do not attend St. X because of the cost. This disturbed Harry and he mentally concluded that “we” had to think much bigger. The Faths fully appreciate the fact that tuition assistance is just one piece
Turn Gratitude Into Generosity. Harry Fath Sr. graduated from St. Xavier High School 100 years ago in 1922. Harry Fath Jr. followed in his footsteps by becoming a member of the St. Xavier Class of 1959. Harry Fath ’59 recounts his days at St. Xavier as critical to his formation. “St. Xavier changed my life for the better,” reflects Fath. “The expectations and opportunities people made for me transformed me into the man I am today. Linda and I feel it is imperative to make that experience available to other young men who want to attend St. Xavier.
of the financial puzzle at St. Xavier. The other pieces include the need to keep annual fund giving at a rate that covers the “gap” each year (difference between the cost of tuition and the actual cost to educate each student). Another large need is the one that mitigates future tuition increases so that tuition rates do not outpace family incomes. Finally, it is not lost on them that a 61-year-old building needs some modern renovations. With these thoughts, and a $50 million lead gift, St. Xavier is now announcing a $200 million campaign as part of St. Xavier 200. This campaign will be part of a continuous improvement strategic plan that will lead the school into its 200-year anniversary, which will begin in October
Our gifts to St. Xavier, in the past, have been focused on one concept
of 2031. This campaign will need the support of the entire St. Xavier
- a family’s ability to pay for a St. Xavier education should not be the
community to be successful.
barrier that keeps a qualified young man from attending. As I learned in conversations over the years with different presidents, and most recently Tim Reilly, affordability is still a barrier for many. I don’t ever want it to be the case that tuition cost is what eliminated the opportunity for any young man. To that end, Linda and I are excited to make a lead Tuition Assistance Fund gift of $50 million toward the $200 million capital campaign leading
Harry has agreed to be the honorary chairman of the capital campaign and hopes that other members of the Long Blue Line will remember their experience at St. X and turn their gratitude into generosity by giving transformational gifts to St. Xavier as well. The legacy of the Fath’s gifts will live on in perpetuity.
up to St. Xavier’s 200 anniversary. th
“I have no doubt that the future world, just like our current world, is a better President Tim Reilly ’76 stated, “We are both humbled and grateful to
place with more St. Xavier graduates in it,” said Reilly. “The Faths have
receive this transformational and inspiring gift from the Faths.
secured that our mission is lived out in future generations of the Long Blue Line. We thank them. The city, church and world should thank them too!”
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St. Xavier 200 Strategic Continuous Improvement Plan Objectives
Mission and Catholic, Jesuit Identity Focus
Facilities and Campus Master Plan Focus
Objectives:
Objective:
• Expand participation in Catholic sacramental, liturgical, and devotional practice at St. Xavier High School. • Extend the Ignatian formation program for faculty and staff beyond the first five years of employment by incorporating intentional Ignatian experiences throughout the careers of the employees. • Create programs that provide parents opportunities to
• Create a campus master plan that, by 2031, will establish exceptional facilities adaptable for future generations while advocating the Society of Jesus’ Universal Apostolic Preference, “Care of Our Common Home” directive, including classroom improvements, security, technology, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Zero initiatives and a comprehensive schedule of capital depreciation.
experience Ignatian Spirituality. • Study and assess alumni faith development post-graduation and develop programs in partnership with Jesuit and other pastoral works in the metropolitan area that enhance the faith formation of alumni.
Human Resources and Programs Focus Objective: • Develop programs and practices to attract and retain students, faculty, staff and Board of Trustee members whose demographics directly correlate to those within the
Educational Standards and Instruction Focus
Greater Cincinnati Community, while providing consistent
Objective:
opportunities for professional and spiritual growth of faculty,
• Improve St. Xavier High School’s ability to meet the diverse
staff and Board of Trustee members.
academic profiles of students, preparing them for college according to our mission.
Fiscal Viability Focus Objectives: Marketing and Communications Focus Objectives: • Maximize the use of technology and data to develop, nurture and steward personal relationships with key audiences. • Increase engagement with and from each key audience.
• Achieve a tuition cap by 2031 through increased endowment, yearly fundraising and stewardship of all school resources. • Establish organizational structures and accountability to leverage alignment with Advancement, Admissions and Communications and Marketing.
• Reach and maintain enrollment levels that maximize efficiency while maintaining an enrollment that reflects the diversity of our region. • Grow and sustain contributions from alumni, parents, faculty and staff. Winter 2022
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Keating Natatorium Undergoes Major Restoration Keating Natatorium has been an iconic fixture on the St. Xavier campus for more than 50 years. Home to the perennial state and national champion AquaBombers and swimmers for the Cincinnati Marlins, it has welcomed some of the best swimmers, divers, water polo players and triathletes ever to come out of Greater Cincinnati. After serving as such a beloved home to so many, Keating Natatorium needed some major renovations. St. Xavier launched a capital campaign to fund the needed upgrades, including the replacement of all underground plumbing and air systems along with the renovation of the locker rooms, pool decking and other enhancements. These necessary restorations position the St. Xavier Swimming and Diving Program, the St. Xavier Water Polo Program, the St. Xavier Triathlon Team and the Cincinnati Marlins for continued success for decades to come. Mike Keating ’73 and the Keating Family lead gifts, along with some other major naming gifts, enabled the renovation to move forward. The pool reopened just in time to host a St. Xavier Water Polo match and for the beginning of the AquaBombers’ winter season. Some details of the project are still being completed. On Sunday, December 26, prior to the annual Alumni Swim Meet, the pool and named areas were blessed and re-dedicated by Fr. Terrence Baum SJ. The well-attended event gave guests a preview of the newly renovated space. The Long Blue Lane is deeply grateful to all those who have supported the renovation so far.
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St. Xavier High School Magazine Winter 2022
There is still time for you to help with this wonderful project and have your name included on the Donor Recognition Wall. Click on the QR code and make your gift by the end of February to be included.
Winter 2022
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excerpts from the ARCHIV E S
Nicholas Kemper '06
Sometime in 1840, a Jesuit in Cincinnati sat down with a newly purchased register book and opened it to the first blank page. With a steady hand, he carefully began to write: A.M.D.G. Alumnorum Album Regulae Quibus Alumni Collegii Sti. Francisci Xaverii diriguntur These few words, written in beautiful Latin script, roughly translate to: For the Greater Glory of God A List of Students and the Rules by Which the Students of St. Francis Xavier College
Original register cover
First page of register
are Being Directed This seemingly innocuous statement is the beginning of
Xavier between 1840 and 1869. The data provided for each
what is arguably the most important historical document
student includes: first name, surname, parent/guardian,
among the many documents and items contained within the
place of residence, date of entrance, age, religion, and
St. Xavier High School Archives: the 1840-1869 St.
status as a boarder or day scholar. A cursory glance
Xavier Register.
reveals that most of the students ranged in age from six to eighteen; a few came from as far away as Cuba and
After arriving from St. Louis in 1840 at the invitation
Mexico; some attended for a few years, while others stayed
of Bishop John Baptist Purcell, a handful of Jesuits took
for only a few days; and a diverse array of Catholics,
over a struggling diocesan school (the Athenaeum, founded
Protestants, and Jews comprised the student body.
1831) and renamed it St. Xavier College. The opening pages of the Register were most likely penned shortly after the
Over one hundred and eighty years have passed since the
Jesuits’ arrival in early October of that year, making it
Register’s first page was written, and in a reappraisal
one of the school’s earliest institutional documents.
last winter it was discovered that time had not been kind. The book’s binding had disintegrated almost to the point
The first portion of this seminal book contains the
of non-existence, leaving quite a few pages loose and
various regulations implemented by the Jesuits in the
no longer attached to one another. The pages themselves
mid-19th century: required clothing (frock coat and
had become acidic, brittle, and prone to crumbling.
pantaloons), expectations of cleanliness (no spitting on
And although the ink was still crisp and legible, the
the floor or throwing quills), lavatory etiquette (strict
Register’s overall condition prevented it from being
silence in the privy), and prohibitions regarding student
handled except in extraordinary situations. Something
behavior (no Grogshop visits).
had to be done to preserve this invaluable piece of St. Xavier history.
The second portion of the book details the registration information of every single student who enrolled at St. 16
St. Xavier High School Magazine Winter 2022
If anyone could save the Register, it was Jim and
and helps to neutralize any harmful acidic buildup
Mike Fallon of the Ohio Book Store. These two expert
within the paper’s cellulose fibers, thus helping to
craftsmen, who ply their bookbinding craft in the
preserve the pages for many years to come. Each page was
basement of this iconic Cincinnati establishment, work
then encapsulated in archival-quality polyester sleeves
diligently to rescue and preserve centuries-old books,
for added protection.
manuscripts, and family Bibles. Back at the Ohio Book Store, Jim rebound all of the Unfortunately, since much of the Register’s binding no
encapsulated pages and created handsome leather
longer existed, nothing short of a complete conservation
covers. The final act in this marvelous and fascinating
overhaul would do. But that came with a hefty price tag
production was the stamping of the cover and spine with
— almost $8,000.
St. Xavier College Register 18401840-1869 using silver foil.
However, thanks in part to a federal Institute of Museum
The Register has since returned to its home in the
and Library Services LSTA grant awarded by the State
St. Xavier High School Archives. Thanks to the Fallon
Library of Ohio, as well as generous contributions from
brothers and the Ohio Book Store, the Register can now
alumni, the restoration was able to commence during the
be handled and read without fear of further damage and
summer of 2021.
deterioration. And better yet, this priceless historical document is now preserved and protected for future
Up first was separating the various sections of pages,
generations.
or “signatures.” Each signature is bound together with string, with 30-40 signatures comprising the entire
If you are interested in viewing this magnificent
Register. Using a sharp bookbinder’s knife, Jim carefully
piece of Cincinnati and St. Xavier history, whether for
sliced through the old glue and tattered thread holding
genealogical research or out of plain curiosity, please
the sections together. Countless hours later, all the
contact archivist Nick Kemper at nkemper@stxavier.org to
signatures were separated, and soon the individual pages
arrange for a visit.
themselves were removed one by one. The next step was mending any lacerations in the pages. Jim painstakingly repaired all of the tears using a German-made, acid-free mending tissue that he applied gently with an iron. With the tissue firmly in place, the tears would be prevented from worsening further. The individual pages were then sent to a local paper conservator with whom the Fallon brothers work closely. The conservator proceeded to apply a deacidification spray to each side of every page. The magnesium oxide contained within the spray creates an alkaline buffer
Stamping of cover
Newly conserved register
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Alumni Reflections Alumnus and Former Teacher, John Niehaus ’64 Shares a Dream
It is fairly common for a student’s dream to evolve as he enters the career world. John Niehaus ’64 reflects on his common experience which developed into extraordinary results. “I was very fortunate to have three faculty members who had a very positive impression on me (a very average student who struggled with any reading and English).
John Niehaus Then and Now
First was Fr. Wieber for religion. He gave a very calm and professional understanding to a young teenager. He made me happy. I liked his disposition so much that when he announced in my junior year, he was going to take a group of students to Europe for 44 days – I was all in. I talked my parents into letting me go if I paid for half. I worked my butt off to earn the money, $700. Fr. Wieber ended up with 33 students and he was the only chaperone. We had lots of fun and saw a large part of Europe with our bus driver, Luigi who knew no English. Next was John McAnaw who taught me geometry and trigonometry in junior year. He made math very practical, and I could see how to use it in life. His favorite expression when class got rowdy was, with his arms and hands in bird form, he spoke softly and calmly said, ‘Fly right’. I use the math from ‘MAC’, (his affectionate nickname for McAnaw) every day.
Fr. Wieber
In senior year I had Terry Toepker ’59 for Physics. He taught me, “Learn the Concepts” for how nature works and how to use the math I liked from ‘MAC’.” Niehaus also shares an example of the Long Blue Line in action as his relationship with Toepker continued into his professional career. “I went on to Xavier University and studied math and physics and then back to St. X to teach both subjects from 1968-1974. When I needed advice on how to approach a concept that I was having trouble explaining, I’d contact Mr. Toepker, then at XU. Many of my students became engineers, scientists, mathematicians, and physicists. I am always amazed at the stories my past students tell me when I see them years later. One is my dentist; one is a business partner in the mini warehouse business.” John McAnaw
Niehaus reflects, “All these experiences led me to become a land developer, designer of 300+ custom homes and builder of 130 homes. My wife Ginny and I have enjoyed building “dreams” for many people over the last 48 years. We have built 28 developments comprising of 1500 acres with 1500 homesites on the West side of Cincinnati including Aston Oaks. Aston has 680 acres with seven miles of Ohio River view and a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course and 770 residences. I have four brothers, Ferd ’54, Jim ’60, Fran ’69 and Greg ’75 who went to St. X. We have three sisters who went to Seton High School, Mary Joan ’57, Nancy ’66 and Theresa ’71. Many nephews and cousins have gone to St. Xavier from our many good experiences. They have continued the Long Blue Line. I feel very proud when I see and hear the stories of students I taught doing so many great things in life. I know from experience that much of that success is because of the “St. Xavier Advantage.” Ginny and I are leaving a legacy of scholarships for students who need financial assistance to experience St. Xavier and start their own Blue Line.
Terry Toepker ’59
News from the Long Blue Line
Alumni X-Cerpts 50’s
80’s
90’s cont’d
Dr. Roger Edward Kanet ’54 was
Eric Ernst ’80 was recently awarded the
Michael Green ’97, president and co-
presented with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by Marquis Who’s Who. This prestigious award was granted to Dr. Kanet for his many achievements in Education. Dr. Kanet shared, “I am well aware that I, a 14-year old from Russellville, Ohio [population = 452 in 1940] when I arrived at Sycamore St. in 1950, would never had such a career and travelled much of the word without the outstanding Jesuit education that I had at St. X!”
Southwest Ohio District 15/16 Div III/IV Mariemont High School boys’ assistant coach of the year for basketball.
founder of Athena Security, was featured on WCPO Ch. 9 in Cincinnati for his mission to improve security by creating a process to detect guns before they enter schools and other buildings.
Read the full profile of Dr. Kanet’s illustrious and adventurous career here: Roger Edward Kanet Presented with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by Marquis Who’s Who (24-7pressrelease.com)’ https://www.24-7pressrelease. com/press-release/452530/roger-edward-kanetpresented-with-the-albert-nelson-marquis-lifetimeachievement-award-by-marquis-whos-who
60’s Raymond Vendryes ’64 retired after 18 years of teaching and 22 years with the Federal Government.
Glen Grimme ’67 is a “Global Patient Advocate” for a foundation to assist children with rare neural diseases in Latin America and Argentina.
Paul Hemmer ’67 shared that the Hemmer Company celebrated their 100th Anniversary.
Randy Overbeck ’69 published the story Scarlet at Crystal River in the best-selling collection Haunted Shores Mysteries.
Army Col. Burke Hamilton ’87, Secretary of the United Nations Command’s Military Armistice Committee, joined North and South Korean military officials during the first trilateral meeting on disarming the border area. The meeting was held on the South Korean side of Panmunjom, October 2018. In February 2019, Burke received an award from the Minister of Defense for his great contribution to the peace drive on the Korean Peninsula during a very critical and historic time on the Korean Peninsula.
90’s Mark Ryan ’91 is managing director of Merrill Lynch and executive president of Bank of America.
00’s On October 1, 2021 alumni Will Reilly ’09, Mason Meier ’09, Michael Green ’97, and Josh Green ’02 spoke to the History of American Capitalism class about their start up Pursuitoutside.com They suggested several resources to the students for further study toward business success! 2021 Commencement St. Xavier speaker, Vivek Ramaswamy ’03, has been named a “Person to Watch in 2022” by the Cincinnati Enquirer. Ramaswamy is an entrepreneur in the medical and technology industries and the author of Woke, Inc.
After St. Xavier, Andy Chiodi ’93, went on to graduate from Ohio State, B.S., Physics in 1997 and earned a Ph. D. in Physical Oceanography from the University of Washington in 2006. He recently wrote an article about the fires along the west coast. His article was published in a University of Washington paper in 2021.
Pete Carothers ’04 was named to the 2021
Acclaimed pianist Alex Smith ’96, who is known for his partnership with Lady Gaga, accompanied Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett in Bennett’s final public performance in November 2021 on Paramount+ Learn more about Alex’s latest releases at Alexsmithkeys.com
Buddy LaRosa high school Sports Hall of Fame for his outstanding football career at St. Xavier, Boston College, and the Carolina Panthers. Learn more about his illustrious career with records and awards at larosasmvp.com
Buddy LaRosa high school Sports Hall of Fame for his outstanding swimming career at St. Xavier. Learn more about his decorated career as a Marine with distinguished commendations at larosasmvp.com
Luke Kuechly ’09 was named to the 2021
Richard Fleming ’68 is a Nashville songwriter who, along with co-writer Tom Hambridge, has several songs (including “A Few Good Years” and “Born to Play Guitar”) in the recent (July 2021) PBS documentary “American Masters—Buddy Guy: The Blues Chase the Blues Away”. Richard also wrote songs on the Kingfish debut album (“Kingfish”) which was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2020.
Will Reilly ‘09, Mason Meier ‘09, Michael Green ‘97, and Josh Green ‘02 with the History of American Capitalism class
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10’s
BIRTHS
Marcus Hughes ’11 is a new Associate Attorney practicing in Tax and Real Estate at Vorys, Sater, Seymour, and Pease and recently passed the Ohio Bar. He is pictured here with his new employer, Nathaniel Lampley, who is the father of fellow Bombers, Trey ’14 and Hunter ’16. (Below)
A new Jesuit elementary school is coming to the Bond Hill neighborhood of Cincinnati. Sam Burchenal ’12, along with his parents, have been instrumental in supporting the Catholic Inner-City Schools initiative and are helping with the formation of the new all-male Jesuit elementary school. The new school will be on the site of the former St. Agnes on the campus of the present Church of the Resurrection in Bond Hill. A recent Catholic Telegraph article tells the story of the school – including Sam’s role in the process.
Wynston Wilcox ’13 recently began writing for the Commercial Appeal online platform. He will be reporting on high school sports in the Memphis area.
GRAHAM Henry “Hank” Graham was born in August to David ’08 and Gretchen Graham.
SHAFER Jeff Shafer ’98 and wife, Michelle, and 3 daughters were surprised and blessed with a future Bomber, Grant Edward, in June. They decided to stick with their 2-week trip in August, which had been planned a year in advance. The family hiked in Southern Utah and the Grand Canyon. Here they are in Zion National Park halfway to the well-known “chains” section with 6-week-old Grant in tow.
Both Matt Bockhorst ’17 (Clemson) and Sean Clifford ’17 (Penn State) were nominated for the William Campbell Trophy. The award is described as “Celebrating its 32nd year, the Campbell Trophy® recognizes an individual as the absolute best football scholar-athlete in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.”
WEDDINGS BURLEIGH Peter Burleigh ’17 married Helen Maier on May 28, 2021. Attendees in the photo: front, left to right – David Burleigh ’86, Peter Burleigh ’17, John Schenk ’16, middle, left to right – Andrew Seta ’16, William Burleigh ’15, Mike Momper ’86, back, left to right – JP Burleigh ’14, and Dan Klare ’85. Peter is working on a master’s degree and teaching at a Catholic high school in Dallas, TX.
FACULTY/STAFF Fine Arts faculty member ELIZABETH HARRIS wrote the play Daughter of War about a female soldier who served in Iraq. The play is being produced by Cincinnati LAB Theatre.
IN MEMORIAM 1964 1972 1957 1951 1964 1965 1949 1963 1957 1961 1962 1939 1979 1953 1964 1957
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Mr. John GAUCHE Mr. Ronald BAUMGARTNER Mr. Robert MOEVES Dr. Anthony DAMICO Mr. Gerald GLUECK Mr. James FRANK Mr. Robert KULLE Mr. Edward BERNATH Mr. Charles OELSNER Mr. Robert GANIM Mr. Kevin RIORDAN Mr. John BERTKE Mr. Christopher DEYE Mr. Norbert ROMBACH Mr. Albert SAUER Mr. John REED
St. Xavier High School Magazine Winter 2022
1957 1986 1960 1954 1993 1964 1956 1946 1985 1957 1965 1958 1966 1965 1950 1957
Mr. William OHR Mr. Robert DOYLE Mr. Edward SOELLNER Mr. Thomas COTTINGHAM Mr. Michael LAMPING Mr. Michael DONOVAN Mr. Thomas KALLMEYER Mr. David KUNTZ Mr. Robert MILLBOURN Mr. Thomas MASON Mr. Blake BAIRD Mr. Paul BORGMANN Dr. Ralph WATSON Mr. Fred GRUBER LTC Norman HAYES Mr. Ronald BOSKEN
1994 1956 1969 1956 1951 2008 1965 1974 1952 1961 2018 1948 1978 1958 1966 1992
Mr. Eric DEGRAVE Mr. Clyde DORN Mr. Edward HOLMAN Dr. Frank MESSMANN Mr. Theodore MEYERS Mr. Alex GRIFFIN Dr. Frederick GIGLIA Maj. Lawrence KANE Mr. Walter BECK Mr. James CARSON Mr. Connor MCSHEA Mr. Daniel DELL Mr. Raymond PATER Mr. Peter DINNESEN Mr. Joseph LIBIS Mr. Adam SEIBEL
X-Peditions On the globe, the Long Blue Line is the equator. In St. X parlance, the Long Blue Line of alumni and student body appears all over the globe. Bomber blue turns up all over the map and we want the evidence. Send us your pictures wearing St. Xavier High School gear or hoisting a copy of a St. Xavier magazine at an exotic locale or local landmark. Maybe a picture of Bombers at the Pyramids of Egypt or posing at the Pit. Either way, let us know where you’ve been displaying your X pride. Send your high-resolution digital images to bschulte@ stxavier.org or mail prints to Becky Schulte c/o St. Xavier magazine, 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45224.
1. Pete Henkel ’75, Mark Menkhaus ’75, Mike Menkhaus ’72, and Mark Rosemeyer ’72 tore it up at Miami Whitewater Golf Course in October. 2. Cameron Specht ’19 was honored with the prestigious Lt. Andy Zulli Memorial Trophy which is awarded to one member of the Dayton Flyers Football team annually. Lt. Andy Zulli was a UD alumnus who was killed during his military service in 1954. Cameron best exemplified the characteristics of sportsmanship, scholarship and leadership for which Lt. Zulli was known. 3. In November, the St. X Class of 1956 gathered for lunch at the Hofbrauhaus, Newport. 4. Classmates from the St. X Class of 1968 visited New Orleans. From L to R: Steve Rabe, Jim Murphy, Ray Connaughton and Steve Beck. 5. In 2021, Westside Bomber grads took their 14th annual golf trip to New Mexico. Pictured L to R: Tom Bruns ’73, Jack Kortekamp ’73, Mark Ahern ’73, Pat McCafferty ’73, Greg Buchert ’73, Jim Murphy ’68 and Ed Zenni ’73 (Mike Schmerge ’73 not pictured).
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6 1. At the 40th annual Fairview Farm Rod and Gun Club Trapshoot, members from the Class of 1975 gathered. L to R: Peter Henkel, John Fries, host Terry Deters, and Mike Russell. In the background are Pete’s 40 years of trophies from the event. 2. Doug Lange ’71 and Mike Maier’ 70 visiting the Basilica of Athens, Greece in September 2021. 3. Nate Schulte ’24 and his brother Zach Schulte ’21. Nate was visiting his brother in South Bend for the Notre Dame Georgia Tech Game and cheered on the Irish to a 55-0 victory. 4. Dedicated listener to St. Xavier football on the radio, Mrs. Agnes Reilly with the St. Xavier Radio team. L-R: Tony Schad ’81, Agnes Reilly (aka., St. Agnes the Boy Maker) mother of St. X President Tim Reilly ’76 with Ralph Nardini ’77. 5. The Class of 1971 held its 50-year reunion October 8 & 9, 2021. Three members of the Class of ’71 re-assembled their band from the 1970 era to provide musical entertainment for the event. The photo includes Robert Bunning (center), Tom Heitkemper and Tom Trautmann (far right). Also included in the photo is Teddy Mechley ’22 (far left) who graciously contributed his talent on the drums. Teddy did a superb job with little or no rehearsal time. We all believe that Teddy now has a better understanding of what the “Long Blue Line” is all about. 6. Kevin Sasson ’93, Matt Meyer ’99 & Tom Critchfield of St Louis University High ’13 - Jesuit Men for Others on the last day of our Mission Trip to Olancho Honduras with SonLight Power.
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X-Peditions 1., 2. AND 3. The Houston Alumni Chapter Dinner took place at Fresco Italian Cafe, owned by Steve Gonzalez ’75, and featured special guests President Tim Reilly ’76 and Principal, Dan Lynch. 4. St. Xavier alumni gathered for a hockey game in December. Chris Auberger ’84 and fellow players gathered for a quick picture after the event. 5. Zach Vogelpohl ’12 finished his first full Ironman in Cambridge Maryland in September 2021 repping the gear of the St. Xavier triathlon club!
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1. St. Xavier faculty attended the Notre Dame vs Georgia Tech on November 30, 2021. L-R: Tom Wynn, Mike Bellamah (Notre Dame alumnus), Mike Haskins, and Tim McDonald. 2. Joey Arbino ’14 and Blake Cabanas ’90 came together at the 2021 Chicago Pickleball Open. 3. Quinn Posey was welcomed into the Long Blue Line at his 8th grade graduation party by fellow Bomber brothers. From L to R: Quinn Posey ’25, Benjamin Luebbers ’24, Thomas Keefe ’23, Johann Lutmer ’22, Carter Posey ’22, Rylan Earl ’22, John Luebbers ’84, Kevin Keefe ’72, Tom Keefe ’68 and Dr. John Keefe ’67.
X-Peditions What is up? You can let us know in a variety of ways–send a photo for our X-Peditions feature or tell fellow Bombers about your wedding, a recent move, your latest promotion, a family addition, your retirement or other news via the Alumni X-cerpts pages. Just fill out and send in the form below. We’re looking forward to hearing from you soon. Mail the form to: St. Xavier High School (Magazine), 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, OH 45224 Fax: 513-761-2586 or E-mail: bschulte@stxavier.org
Name St. Xavier Class Year Home address
City State
Zip
Home Phone Cell Phone E-mail Address Business Firm Your Position Business Address
City State Work Phone Spouse’s Name
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St. Xavier High School Magazine Winter 2022
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Calendar
Alumni Gatherings and School Events Winter/Spring 2022
March
May
X-Travaganza at St. Xavier High School
31 Chicago Alumni Chapter Event at South Branch Tavern and Grille To view an extensive list of regularly updated events, please visit the Reunions/ Events section online at www.stxavier.org/alumni
April 3
Dallas Alumni Chapter Golf Outing
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Grandparents’ Mass and Breakfast (for Freshmen)
26 Golden and Then Some Reunion (classes of 1969 and prior) 28 Fine Arts Hall of Fame Inaugural Induction Ceremony
Class of 1996
Class of 1975
August
6-7 Class of 1970 Reunion Weekend
14 Young Alumni Golf Outing at Glenview Golf Course
23 X-Travaganza Golf Outing
22 Alumni Golf Outing at Western Hills Country Club
26-28 Class of 1972 Reunion Weekend
*First Friday resumed in January at St. Xavier Church downtown and will continue on the first Friday of each month in 2022 except for June, July and August.*
Class of 1981
Reunions/Golf Outings/Other Events Despite the obvious challenges presented by COVID-19, we were able to host 20 class reunions this fall along with two golf outings and several other alumni events! To all those alumni who were able to attend any event this fall, we sincerely hope you had a wonderful time reconnecting with friends and classmates and, with respect to the reunions, being back on campus once again! Looking forward, we will be hosting two reunions in May (i.e., 1970 and 1972) along with ten in the fall (i.e., 1967, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, 2007, 2012 and 2017) and while we do not have dates for the fall reunions yet, we are currently seeking assistance from alumni from these classes to help with reunion planning committee efforts. To be clear, the best reunions invariably involve fairly large planning committees with members who are actively engaged and interested in (most) aspects of the reunion planning process. If you are interested and able to assist with your class’s reunion planning efforts, please contact Eric M. Gammarino, Director of Alumni Relations, at egammarino@stxavier.org or 513-761-7815 ext. 155.
Class of 1971
Class of 2006
Class of 2005 Winter 2022
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X-Travaganza 2022
Opening Party Saturday, February 26, 2022
Saturday, March 5, 2022
Proceeds from X-Travaganza benefit all St. Xavier students. Join us for St. Xavier’s 49th X-Travaganza and Xperience a magical evening, including the Silent Auction, Live Auction, raffles and the exciting Grand Raffle Drawing for cash prizes of $20,000, $10,000 and $5,000. The Live Auction will surprise and amaze guests with more than 30 unique items and packages, including: • Trip to NYC to see “Hamilton” • Three-bedroom home in Palm Springs, CA • 2022 Harley-Davidson Street Bob • Four tickets to the 2022 OSU vs Michigan football game
GRAND RAFFLE 2022 Directly benefiting St. Xavier Tuition Assistance. Sponsored by
TICKETS Tickets available now through Friday, March 4, 2022 Purchase Grand Raffle tickets online at www.stxavier.org/grandraffle
Looking for more information? Contact X-Travaganza Director, Cathy Cionni, at ccionni@stxavier.org 26
St. Xavier High School Magazine Winter 2022