BlueprintBUI L D I N G C O N F I D E N C E , C R E AT I N G L E A D E R S

S P O N S O R E D B Y T H E C O N G R E G AT I O N O F S T . J O S E P H

N A Z A R E T H A C A D E M Y. C O M W I N T E R 2 0 0 9

INSIDETHIS ISSUE

President’s & Principal’s LetterALUM you Should Know

Athletic Hall of FameCapital Campaign

Nazareth Academy DevelopmentAlumni Updates

In MemoriamCalendar of Events16,019

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Nazareth Academy, sponsored bythe Congregation of St. Joseph,

is a Catholic, coed, collegepreparatory high school dedicatedto living Jesus’ mission of unityand committed to educating

the whole person.

1209 W. Ogden Ave.LaGrange Park, Illinois 60526Phone: 708-354-0061Fax: 708-354-0109Website:www.nazarethacademy.com

President:Mr. Dennis MoranPrincipal:Ms.Deborah VondrasekAcademic Dean:Sr.Terry Middendorf,CSJDirector of Curriculum andInstruction: Mrs. Karen BrownDean of Students:Mr. Tim RackiEditor:Mrs. Cecilia ThunanderGraphic Design and Print:Performance GraphicsPlease direct comments to:cthunander@nazarethacademy.comView Blueprint online at:www.nazarethacademy.com/blueprint.pdf

Contact the alumni office to help stopduplicate and undeliverable mail byupdating addresses. Your help is appreciated.Contact Maryann Polivka in thealumni office at 708-387-8545 ormgpolivka@nazarethacademy.com.Alumni can stay informed of NazarethAcademy news and events, reconnectwith classmates, post personal updatedinformation, list job opportunities, postresumes and receive the latest eBlastnews by registering online. Alumni canimmediately access the online communityatwww.nazarethacademyalumni.org.ID numbers or a reminder of user namesand passwords can be obtained from thealumni office. Stay connected andcheck us out!

16,019 strong… Alumni,faculty, staff, students, and parents havemade Nazareth Academy a strong force inthe Western suburbs and the communityat large. Every interaction we have withothers while representing Nazareth leavesa lasting impression. Whether it is hostingan athletic event, renting our beautifulnew auditorium or through our marketingand recruiting efforts at area gradeschools… we are touching others and help-ing them form opinions about our schooland our mission.

Over this past year, I have received somany positive comments about ourstudents and representatives that I wouldlike to take this opportunity to thank all ofyou for all you do to represent Nazareth.Nazareth is only as strong as the incredibleforce of students, parents, alumni, facultyand staff dedicated to it.

Recently, Nazareth was the recipient oftwo substantial bequests by women withno direct connection to Nazareth. Theconsistent theme communicated by theircaretakers was the positive impressionthey had of Nazareth through theirinteractions with students, alumni andstaff in their communities.

Another positive outcome of your good-will was the strong turnout we had for ourentrance exam. The interest in Nazareth iscontinuing to grow and through your com-munication and interactions it is no longerthe best kept secret. The word is out aboutNazareth and its commitment to excel-lence in education and …Your goodwill ismaking a difference! When you speak andact positively, it resonates and impactsothers positively. And so I thank you, ouralumni, for continuing to spread goodwilland helping your alma mater to thrive.You are our greatest ambassadors!

On or about the last week in January everyyear is dedicated by the Archdiocese to

observing “Catholic Schools Week.” Your con-nection to Nazareth Academy gives you greatreason to join in celebrating this special time.There are many reasons that people choose aCatholic education for their children. Thesereasons need to be not only mentioned, butcelebrated for the overall impact they haveon individuals and on society as a whole.

I am not sure that the Sisters of SaintJoseph contemplated this complete list whenthey first founded our school in 1900. Theydug in… figuratively and literally to create aschool that would foster the education of thewhole person. They knew, without extensivestudies, graphs and years of hard data… thatyou cannot attempt to fully educate youngpeople in the absence of religion and spiritu-ality. It is because of them and many otherswith a similar vision, that so many of us havehad the opportunities to attend Catholicschools.

Parents and families have, for manygenerations, made significant sacrifices toafford Catholic school tuition. We now havethe research and data to support the fact thatCatholic schools provide an education,culture and atmosphere that can all be linkedto better test scores, overall academicachievement and graduation success rates.And all of that great news is, of course, inaddition to the fact that students are educat-ed in a faith and Gospel-based curriculum…with opportunities to discover more abouttheir relationship with God through prayer,worship, retreats and service.

So… go ahead… CELEBRATE! And don’tforget to say thank you to the people whohave provided this opportunity for you…moms, dads, grandparents…And THANK YOU for the many ways YOUcontinue to support the mission of theCongregation of Saint Joseph through yoursupport of Nazareth Academy.

Letter fromthe Principal

Deborah Vondrasek ’82

Letter fromthe PresidentDennis Moran

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ALUMyou Should Know

Frank Jareczek, the Nazareth 2006Valedictorian and Boston University junior

spent ten weeks at the Texas Medical Center inHouston on a biomedical engineering internship.The program, sponsored by the University ofTexas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center and RiceUniversity, included both medical and researchcomponents.

During the first four weeks, Frank rotatedthrough hospital clinics and operating rooms inthe morning, observing procedures that includedtotal hip replacements, kidney removals, andcraniotomies. In the afternoon, he studiedhuman anatomy through a dissection-basedcurriculum developed by program directorDr. Kathryn Peek. “Frank was one of 27 studentschosen nationwide, and was selected to receivethe Service Award for the 2008 internship.He demonstrated a keen interest, intellect, andcommitment we look for in our future physiciansand medical researchers,” said Dr. Peek.

Frank’s remaining six weeks were focused onperforming cancer research under the guidanceof Dr. Walter Hittelman, Chief of Cellular Oncologyin the Department of Experimental Therapeuticsat M. D. Anderson. His work focused on studyingmicroscopic images of cells in order to clarifypotential mechanisms of tumorigenesis in lungand colon cancer. “Frank addressed his researchquestion with intelligence and outstanding analyt-ical technique… His laboratory work was highlyproductive due to his ability to remain focusedon the project while in the laboratory and makingsure he achieved the goals,” said Dr. Hittelman.

Taking full advantage of his location in theTexas Medical Center, Frank spent several hourseach week in the Trauma Emergency Departmentat Hermann Memorial Hospital, working closelywith both nurses and physicians as they treatedpatients.

Although Frank is not quite sure where hisfuture will take him, his comprehensive summerexperience provided him with significant insightinto the plethora of opportunities available inthe fields of medicine and biomedical research.

He is an alum you should know!

Frank stands ready to answer questions during the final poster presentation of theSTEP-UP 2008 internship program.

newsNAZ

Frank receives the STEP-UP 2008 ServiceAward from Education Coordinator May Wu asProgram Director Dr. Kathryn Peek looks on.

Frank received theService Award inrecognition of hiswork through theten weeks of theSTEP-UP 2008Summer Internship.

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We had an impressive

response this year and

are proud to present

the 2009 Hall of Fame

recipients.

The ceremony will

take place February 7,

2009, during halftime

of the varsity boys’

basketball game.

We proudly present

our honorees.

NazarethAthleticHall ofFameInduction

2009

AthletePhilip Reed

(’99) played three sports, foot-ball, basketball and baseball,while a student at NazarethAcademy. As a football star hewas awarded All-State and All-Conference in ’96, ’97, and ‘98,Conference MVP in ‘97 and ‘98,Player of the Year in 1998, andset school records in rushing,points and touchdowns scored.

He remembers fondlyhanging out with buddies afterschool, like Lundy Swilley (’99),Kenny Baker (’99) and hisbrother Laron (’01). “I especiallyappreciated the time convers-ing with Dennis Moran in thecafeteria talking over gameplans and life in general.”Phil is grateful for the personalattention he received atNazareth and always feltappreciated for his effortson and off the playing field.

“This honor means so muchto me because it gives credit tomy parents and family,” saidPhil. “My Dad inspired disci-pline and a strong work ethicand my Mom shared her spiri-tuality and humility.” Philipadded “it’s my family’s valuesbeing honored on February7th”, at the Nazareth AcademyHall of Fame induction.”

After leaving Nazareth,Philip earned three varsityletters playing football as ateam captain for the Broncosat Western Michigan. He wasOffensive Player of the Year in2002, awarded the Iron BroncoAward, and MAC Player ofthe Week.

Philip attends PalmerCollege of Chiropractic inDavenport, Iowa and will begraduating on February 21 ofthis year. At that time, Dr. Reedwill head back to Chicago tolook for an opportunity topractice chiropractics in thewestern suburbs of Chicago.Congratulations Phil – yourhard work, discipline andvision have taken you far!

AthleteCara Kokenes Samson(’93) is being inducted into theNazareth Hall of Fame as a gift-ed athlete while at Nazarethand for her significant accom-plishments post Nazareth. Carawas a State Gymnastics Finalistin 1993 and was “the”Nazarethvarsity gymnastics team forfour years, a Cheerleader, onPom and Dance Team and rantrack. She won the Nationaltitle for Ms. Fitness USA in 2007,as well as numerous othernational and internationalcompetitions.

Cara is honored to beremembered by the NazarethCommunity and especiallyin the company of theseother gifted athletes. “TomRichardson, the Nazareth ADwhile I attended Nazarethcoordinated and helped mecomplete a full season as theonly Roadrunner gymnast” saidCara. She credits her parentsfor the discipline it takes to bean athlete and especially agymnast. “It is my parent’sunconditional love that got methrough the trials, tribulationsand helped celebrate myaccomplishments. I am alsograteful to Ellen Lacina,mychildhood gymnastics coachwho brought me out of myshell and helped me matureinto a competitive gymnast.”It’s hard to believe, that Carawas once shy and introverted.

Cara graduated from MiamiUniversity with a B.S. inExercise Physiology and aB.A. in Psychology. Sheearned a Master’s degree inKinesiology specializing inCardiac Rehabilitation. Cara ismarried to Bryan Samson andworks for IBM as a TechnicalSales Specialist. She livesquite a “double life”…her IBMbusiness suit by day and com-petitive fitness persona afterhours. Congratulations Cara!

AthleteDaniel Chopp

(’81) is the core of boys’athleticsand in particular the foundationfor the football program whenthe school went co-ed in 1977.AsMale Athlete of the Year in 1981,he lettered in three sports (bas-ketball, baseball and football),was football team captain andmade All-Conference in 1980.

Dan is proud to be aRoadrunner and especiallyproud of the building blocks heand his teammates establishedin the early years as part of thefirst graduating class of males.“It’s those friends, like JimFalduto (’81), Ed Flowers (’81)and Rob O’Hagan (’81) that I stillkeep in touch with today. Wewere a unique group to theschool and were lucky to be ableto participate in all sports andactivities.” Dennis Moran refersto this first group of guys as“Mr. Everything”!

The school has come a longway according to Dan. Theboys’ teams practiced againstthe girls’ teams, the football fieldwas affectionately referred toas “rock field”, and there wasno boys’dress code!

As a founding memberof the H Foundation whichbenefits the Robert H. LurieComprehensive Cancer Centerof Northwestern University,Dan has never lost sight of theNazareth mission to serveothers. The H Foundation hoststhe Goombay Bash and in justeight years has raised almost$2.5 million for cancer research.

Dan went on to play footballand soccer at St. Norbert Collegeand has coached numerousyouth sports teams.He is theowner of Chopp CommercialProperties, a commercial realestate brokerage and manage-ment company. Dan and hiswife Maureen have two chil-dren, Danielle, age eight andJohn age six. CongratulationsDan . . . or should we sayMr. Everything!

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Coach/AdministratorSr. Jackie Schmitz

(’64) will be inducted into theNazareth Hall of Fame as aCoach/Administrator. Sheserved as Head VolleyballCoach, twice winning theGirls Catholic AthleticConference (GCAC) VolleyballChampionship in 1975 and 1978,moderated the Girls AthleticAssociation and SportsActivities at Nazareth andwas in charge of intramuralsfor four sports.

It should be no greatsurprise that Sr. Jackie herselfis an awesome athlete. As astudent at Nazareth, she playedon the varsity basketball andvolleyball teams all four yearsand is most grateful for thewonderful friendships madeat that time. Jackie said recentlyin an interview“I am my bestself, either singing, dancing orparticipating in sports!” Shecredits her mother for herathletic ability and thanksher father for instilling agreat sense of discipline.

Sr. Jackie is co-founder ofthe GCAC. “Back in the earlydays, there were not many girls’competitive leagues, and soalong with a few other coacheswe created this league.” Theseco-founders were recognizedin 2004 at the 30 year annualdinner and awards ceremony.She proudly states “the leaguehas come a long way!”

Sr. Jackie enjoys life to thefullest …and… has even beenknown to pull some fast ones!She is the creator of Nancy andNicky Nazarene, a fictionalcharacter used to elicit enthusi-asm for the Nazareth walks.Nancy and Nicky’s arrivals oncampus were always unique…for instance galloping in onhorseback, screeching to a stopon a moped, gliding in on rollerskates or soaring on a tandembike.

Sr. Jackie, congratulations,we are singing your praises.

AthleteMary-Kate Geraghty

Sableskigraduated from Nazareth in1994, as the first girl in theschool history to be a CrossCountry State Qualifier in 1993,as well as Conference Champ.She was the Female Athlete ofthe Year in 1994, RoadrunnerAward winner in ‘92 and ‘93 inCross Country and Track win-ner in ’93. Mary-Kate went onto University of Dayton whereshe ran Cross Country for threeyears, track for one, and was thecaptain of her team two of thethree years and MVP in 1994.

After graduating fromUniversity of Dayton,Mary-Kate completed her PhD inLiteracy at Ohio State and wasnamed Teacher of the Year in2007. All the while,Mary-Katecontinued her affinity forrunning by coaching highschool track in the Dayton area.

In a recent interview,Mary-Kate remembers fondly howthe school community support-ed her as she ran downstate.“I was so touched because therewas a ‘Mary-Kate Geraghty Day’,where everyone wore theirrunning shoes and attendedthe meet downstate.” She isgrateful to Phil Cahill, hermath teacher in freshman year,because as she states “I wasreally not an athlete, howeverMr. Cahill saw potential andencouraged me to try out forcross country. He is an impor-tant part of my success!”

“Running is a great disci-pline – it has taught me tofocus, set goals and managemy time.” Mary-Kate and herhusband Matt have four chil-dren, four and a half year oldtwins Annie & Patrick, threeyear old Nora and three monthold Colleen. She recently ranthe Chicago Marathon withher husband and is a part-timefaculty member of theUniversity of Dayton in theschool of education.

CoachAnthony Manfre

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said“Success is… to win the respectof intelligent people and theaffection of children…”AnthonyManfre (1946-2005) epitomizedEmerson’s belief of a successfulperson. Coach Manfre is beinghonored posthumously as thefirst Head Football Coach atNazareth Academy with arecord in the first two yearsof 17-0. After coaching atNazareth for six years he wenton to coach another twenty-eight years at St. Joseph andCarmel in Mundelein. He wasrespected by many and espe-cially by his son, Brian Manfrewho reminisces about hisfather.

“My Dad’s hard work anddedication to coaching andteaching in the Catholic Schoolsystem has touched thousandsof students, and while he onlyspent six years at Nazareth, hewas influential in laying thegroundwork for what isNazareth football today,” Brianproudly states. Brian remem-bers, as a four year old, stand-ing on the sidelines in full foot-ball equipment wanting to be aRoadrunner. He mentions thathis dad made great friends withthat first team and spent manyhours recruiting the first classof boys to attend Nazareth.

Joe Green is one of thosefirst players and had the privi-lege of knowing Coach Manfrefor nearly 30 years. “Coach hada great passion for NazarethAcademy and considered eachof us to be like one of his sons.With his induction, the honorreverberates to the entire firstfootball team – we celebrateour friend and coach.”

Brian said that this honormeans a great deal to his fami-ly. “I can only hope to be hon-ored in the same way some-day.” Coach Manfre’s legacy isquite a success… he has wonthe respect and affection ofthousands!

Friend of AthleticsQuinn Cook

Quinn Cook is a self professed“gym rat”…but not just anygym, a true Nazareth “superfan”! He is being inducted intothe Nazareth Athletic Hall ofFame under the “Friends ofAthletics” category. On anygiven day, you can sit withQuinn at a girls’ volleyball,basketball, softball, or soccergame or a boys’ football, basket-ball or baseball game. As hestates, “I have had the pleasureof watching Nazareth athleticsmorph into a strong coedpowerhouse.”

He fondly remembers theyear Nazareth (1991), aka, David;slew Goliath (St. Joseph) in a63-57 victory to claim theRoadrunners first boys’ basket-ball regional championship.He sat at the game withSr. Ethel Vaca and reminisces,“The excitement of the gameand season consumed us all…it was a neat experience toshare with her and all wholove Nazareth.”

Quinn and his wife Donnaput four of their five childrenthrough Nazareth (Kathleen’80, Christine ’81, Charlie ’86 andColleen ’88). He credits Donnafor indulging his Nazarethsports’ passion. “She is mostgracious about my time spentas a Roadrunner super fan”,which began back when hiskids attended the school andhas continued for 28 years.“It’s been a great ride… andstill going,” said Quinn,“Thestudent athletes are amazingand go on to live balancedlives.”

Quinn attributes DennisMoran as a guiding force atNazareth and one that is direct-ly responsible for the school’smetamorphosis. Quinn…it takes people who believe…and our believers are ourguiding force!

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CampaignCapital GIFTS

to the Future

Rose M.Dulik

An attorney fromWe s t c h e s t e rt e l e p h o n e dNazareth toinform us thatwe were namedas a recipient in the estate of Rose Dulik.This telephone call initiated a search todetermine how Mrs. Dulik was connectedto Nazareth Academy. It was discoveredthat she was not an alumna nor did shehave a direct connection with Nazareth.Living in nearby Westchester, Mrs. Dulikconfided in her attorney that she hadcrossed pathswithmanyNazareth familiesover the years and was always impressedwith the students, their manner and allaround contribution to the community.

With no children of her own to intro-duce her to the school, she became connect-ed by living in a nearby community andwitnessing the impression NazarethAcademy made on the young people in herneighborhood. Her gift to Nazareth proveshow much she cared for our mission ofeducating young people in mind, body andspirit.

Mrs. Dulik’s substantial gift is an exam-ple of the powerful presence that NazarethAcademy has in the greater communityand how our school links people together.

JoanValenta

Joan Valentawas a child ofYu g o s l av i a ni m m i g r a n t swho grew up onthe west side ofChicago. She pursued a career as a profes-sional golfer and it was her general love ofathletics that ultimately connected her toNazareth Academy. Losing her father tragi-cally, Ms.Valenta gaveupher dreamof pro-fessional golf and returned from Californiato care for and live with her mother. Shetook a job as a secretary at Sears Roebuck &Company and they built and lived in ahome in Westchester.

Ms. Valenta enjoyed the outdoors andcontinued her love of sports. She rooted forall of the Chicago teams but took a particu-lar interest in the Westchester Raider foot-ball team. Following many of her favoritesto the high school level, Ms. Valenta had aspecial interest in our Roadrunner footballteam and its growth and development overthe years. Her substantial bequest isrestricted to the completion of the AthleticField Renovation as well as financial aid tostudents. She loved reading and learningandwanted tomake sure that otherswouldhave that opportunity.

Ms. Valenta was a private person whotook daily 5 mile walks with her beloveddog, Punky. Ms. Valenta communicated toher executor that she was impressed withthe Nazareth students in her communityand felt that a great way to impact thefuture was to invest in children. OurNazareth students and student athleteswere the investment she believed wouldreap the most return.

Neither Mrs. Dulik nor Ms. Valenta ever

alerted the school of their intentions during

their lifetimes so we were not able to thank

them personally. We honor them posthu-

mously and will recognize Ms. Valenta by

naming the Stadium in her honor as per her

wishes. Mrs. Dulik will also be memorial-

ized in our legacy garden.

These women have made a tremendous

impact on Nazareth’s goals of providing

an excellent education in outstanding

facilities and we are truly thankful for their

commitment to Nazareth Academy.

If you would like more information on gift vehicles,please do not hesitate to contact Dennis Moran at 708-387-8517.

In 2008, Nazareth Academy was the recipient of two significant gifts, bequests from the estates of

Rose M. Dulik and Joan Valenta. Such contributions, set up in estate plans are not unusual to

educational institutions. What sets these donations apart is that they came as such surprises.

Joan Valenta on the golf course.

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From the Development & Alumni Office

Philanthropy – a state of mind

Philanthropy comes in all shapes and sizes. Donors whowere able to give a donation to the school, in any amount,have transformed Nazareth in incredible ways. Nazareth ispleased to announce you have helped us achieve our goal!We asked you to increase your gift to the annual fund andyou did! Because of your support and generosity,we will

receive a $10,000 matching gift from CommunityMemorial Foundation.Thank You!

We can all be philanthropists and make a difference with what we have~ it is not necessary to have wealth to do so. Your gift has touched a student’slife, supported financial aid, enhanced physical facilities, developed academicprograms, and supported numerous student educational needs. After all,it was Theodore Roosevelt who spoke to the majority of us when he said,“Do what you can,with what you have,where you are.”

The development office and the alumni office work hand-in-hand to promoteand support Nazareth. The alumni office is an integral part of the Academy,which seeks to keep alumni informed about and engaged with the school.Maryann Polivka plans activities,works with the Alumni Board, communi-cates the latest campus news and maintains contact with more than 10,000alumni who call Nazareth Academy their alma mater. She works diligentlyto enhance alumni affinity to and with the school which is evident in thenumber of class notes in this issue of Blueprint. We want to know what youare doing and so do your classmates.Keep those notes coming!

The alumni office is happy to announce Homecoming 2009, “Come Hometo Naz.” The weekend will begin on Friday, October 9, 2009 when wewelcome back all alumni to the school including those celebrating theirmilestone years (class years ending in 4 & 9); join us for an evening ofreminiscing, laughter, food & beverage. On Saturday the 10th we’ll see youat the alumni tent at 1 p.m. as we cheer on the varsity football team. Towrap up the weekend, Sunday, plan on attending the very popular Alumni &Family mass followed by the complimentary pancake breakfast hosted by ourFathers Club. Don’t miss out on the fun this year and “Come Home to Naz.”

Plans are also underway for Career Day in the Fall of 2009. Our goal isto help our junior and senior students see the connection between schooland work and focus on short-term and long-term career planning. Thisis a big event and we need your help. We will be soliciting the expertiseof our alumni in a variety of professions. If you are interested in beingpart of this day contact Maryann Polivka 708-387-8545 ormgpolivka@nazarethacademy.com for more information.

Thank you for your continued support of the endeavors of the development& alumni office. There is much going on at the Academy. We welcome yourtime, talent and treasure.

With gratitude,

Angela BroucekDirector of Development

DevelopmentNAZARETH

Event Date:February 28, 2009

Oak Brook Hills Marriott Resort3500 Midwest Road / Oakbrook, Illinois

RSVP by February 15, 2009

Tickets to Attend Auction(Includes Dinner & Open Bar)

Doors Open at 6 p.m. $100 per person

5 p.m. Mass followed by Wine & CheesePreview Party $25 per person

Sponsorships AvailableTable Sponsors

Your name or company name/logodisplayed along side table, half page ad

$1500

Auctioneer SponsorYour name or company name

displayed next to the auctioneer & mentionedby auctioneer several times during the evening,

full page ad in the program book$5000

Casual Attire

Contact the Marriott Oak Brook Hills Resortto Reserve Your Room 1-888-236-2427@ a special rate of $100 per room,$30 will be donated back to Nazareth.

Class of 1936Virginia Shimandle Nicastrolives in Phoenix, Arizona and was pleas-antly surprised for her 90th birthday byher family and grandchildren. She sendsher regards and fond memories to allher classmates.

Class of 1937Class Representative:Catherine Pohl Maddenis available for calls and reconnectionsat 708-358-1127 and would enjoyhearing from her classmates.

Class of 1938Class Representative:Margaret Molitor Fostere-mail: AF1943@aol.comor 708-354-4393.

Class of 1939Class Representative:Elaine Martin Stednitzprefers phone contact at 708-447-1763and wants to remind her classmatesthat you are celebrating your 70threunion this fall; Elaine wants all ofher classmates able to attend theFamily and Alumni Mass on October11th to mark your calendars!

Class of 1940Class Representative:Helen Sauer Browne-mail: hsbtb@msn.com708-579 7276

Mail: Bethlehem Woods1571 West Ogden Avenue #2626La Grange Park, IL 60526.

Helen Sauer Brown is being hon-ored by Pillars which supports mentalhealth services in our community with anewly created award called the HelenSauer Brown Leadership in DevelopmentAward. “The award will be given for thefirst time this spring in honor of Helen’sextraordinary commitment to theadvancement of the mission of theFillmore Center for Human Services andCommunity Family Services, two ofPillar’s predecessor organizations.”Quote taken from the PR letter dated12/24/08 by Heather Alderman, VP forAdvancement of Pillars announcing theHSB Award.

Marie Zeman Landberg was alegal secretary with the Public ServiceCompany (Edison). She retired to raiseher four children with husband Robert inRiverside, St. Mary’s Parish. She lives intheir family home, keeping in closetouch with two daughters in Austin,Texas, Barbara and Marilyn; and sonsThomas and Robert Jr. in Lombard andRiverside. Memories of Nazareth promptgratitude, affection and longstandingrespect.

Class of 1943Class Representative:Virginia Bostrand Smithe-mail: gini222@msn.com2

Class of 1944Class Representative:Patricia Daily Marvin6214 Willowhill RoadWillowbrook, IL 60514

Class of 1946Class Representative:Anne Stella Randelle-mail: amrandell@sbcglobal.netPhone: 630-325-1502

Class of 1947Class Representative:Dolores Kalka Jackline-mail: deejacklin@comcast.netPhone: 630-968-1292

Class of 1948Class Rep needed!

Class of 1949Class Representative:Loraine Kubiake-mail: lorainekubiak@att.net

Hi ‘49ers: This is our big year - imagine60 years come June when we werethose cute, young Nazareth graduates.So mark your calendars and plan onbeing a part of the celebration: Friday,evening October 9, Alumni receptionat Nazareth; Saturday October 10, ourclass luncheon ( time and place to befinalized); Sunday, October 11,Family-Alumni Mass and Breakfastin Nazareth Auditorium.More details later. Loraine.

Class of 1950Class Rep needed!

Genevieve Cermak Liska ispleased to announce she became agreat grandmother in July 2008.

Alumni UpdatesSeptember 25, 2008 to January 9, 2009news

Alumni

Class of 1951Class Representative:Gloria Blanchard Davise-mail: gloria-davis@wi.rr.comprefer phone contact262-889-4267

Margaret Hovorka Barica livesin Hollywood Hills, FL and is proud ofher son who is a priest active in churchwork.

Rita Hoppenrath Tesar drovefrom her home in Milwaukee to GloriaBlanchard Davis’ home in SilverLake, WI, to lunch with classmatesSr. Patricia Willems, CSJ,June Schemmel Laven,Jane Ritter Beaty and PatMarcincowski Mustradi. Havinggotten Gloria’s email address from thiscolumn in the Nazareth Blueprint,Marita Hillig Varnes (1956)reconnected with Gloria after not hearingfrom her for 62 years, after she wasMarita’s 12-year-old babysitter.

Class of 1952Class Representatives:Elaine Lillig Frantik1925 Lake Avenue, #312Wilmette, IL 60091e-mail: elaine575@aol.comPhone: 847-256 8493

Nancy VanCura Vynaleke-mail: nancyvynalek@yahoo.comPhone: 520-881-4955

Class of 1953Class Representatives:Mary Alice McGee Pittlere-mail: catwomen04@webtv.netPhone: 708-485-4736

Bobbie Michaletze-mail: michaletz@sbcglobal.net.

Class of 1954Class Representative:Pat Dorsano Cofflande-mail: pcoffland@sbcglobal.net

Therese Rolewick Cihlare-mail: tjlc1400@wowway.com

Class of 1955Class Representative:Jenny Palzer Jarosze-mail: jenbob4330@att.net

Jenny Palzer Jarosz traveled toNew Orleans in October 2008 with 11other volunteers led by alumni parents,Dave & Jane Brencic. They repairedthe Parish Center of St. Gabriel theArchangel which was severely damagedby Katrina. Jenny is proud to announceshe was also chosen Woman of theYear by the CCW of St. Barbara’s inBrookfield, Illinois.

Class of 1956Class Representative:Diane Krug Gillemail: dandbgill@hotmail.com

Class of 1957Class Representative:Pat Brennan Ormane-mail: patorman@aol.com

Class of 1958Class Representative:Barbara Blaha Gwodze-mail: BBGx2@aol.com

Well, the dust has settled after the holidaysand hopefully life is back to normal for all.I pray 2009 brings peace and good healthto you and your families. Speaking of 2009,please mark your calendars for the AlumniReunion at Nazareth on Friday, Oct. 9th.It’s never too early to plan a fun eveningand judging from our 50th Reunion, thisclass knows how to have fun! Barb

Class of 1959Class Representatives:Debbie Hegberg Heere-mail: dmheer@att.netor dmheer@gmail.comphone: 708-524-0047

Mira Chabra Devae-mail: surend8@aol.com,phone: 847-982-0669

The Alumni Office wants to thank LindaGusswein Graham for her help as classrep. Debbie and Mira have a reunion com-mittee planning your 50th reunioncelebration the weekend of October 9, 10& 11, 2009…details will be posted as theybecome available or if you are interestedin helping please notify Debbie.

Sr. Marianne Race is one of the coordina-tors of the Congregation of St. Josephplanning two biblical travel opportunities. Alegacy of a Nazareth education is continuedspiritual development. These trips are oneway to continue to offer that personalgrowth in faith to our alumni. Seeds ofEarly Christianity, April 14-23, 2009, is apilgrimage/tour to Turkey. Following in the

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Dr. Jeannie Schultz Gallo retiredfrom the Chicago Public School systemin 2005 and has her own tutoringbusiness. She lives in Kildeer, Illinois.

Class of 1963Class Representative:Patricia Platek Millettemail: millettrichard@yahoo.com

Class of 1964Class Rep needed!

Diann Nickla Grazulis and herhusband, Stephen, live in Spring Hill,Florida where she is, “Retired, andloving the sun and grandkids!”

Class of 1965Class Representative:Ann Sullivan Skoglunde-mail: maqsko@yahoo.com

Marilyn Hoening Brumundworks part-time as a local tour guidewhile caring for her mother withAlzheimer’s. Marilyn lives in Oak Park,Illinois.

Bonnie Rissky Harrington andher husband, Pat celebrated 40 yearsof marriage on December 28th.

Class of 1966Class Rep needed!

Janice Borla was recently inter-viewed by John Ephland in DownBeatMagazine. The article is the centerpieceof a special section on “Where to StudyJazz 2009” and focuses on the currentstate of collegiate vocal jazz education.Says Borla, instructor of vocal jazz atNorth Central College, “The interviewafforded me an opportunity to discussthe vocal jazz curriculum at NorthCentral College and how it is seamlesslyintegrated into the larger framework ofits instrumental Jazz Program.”…Borla’srecordings and performances haveearned her consistently high praise forher beautiful sound, superb technique,adventurous repertoire and imaginativevocal improvisations. Her 2006 releaseFrom Every Angle received a coveted‘4-Star’ review from DownBeat whichnamed it among its ‘Best CDs of 2007.’Her performance last year at theInternational Association of JazzEducation (IAJE) conference in New Yorkto a capacity audience earned her astanding ovation.” Janice performed aconcert in the Sisters of St. JosephChapel in November.

Class of 1967Class Rep needed!

Class of 1968Class Representative:Kathleen Murphyemail: NazGirls68@gmail.com

Susan Murgas Di Forti and herhusband John live in Woodridge. Susanworks for the Laborers Pension Fund inWestchester and is pleased to announceon December 1st they became grand-parents for their first grandson, Nicholas,born to alumnus,Nick (1999) and hiswife, Amy.

Jeanine Phillips made her formalprofession as a Secular Franciscan atSt. Mary’s Basilica in Phoenix, Arizonaon September 27, 2008 after threeyears of religious formation.

Class of 1969Class Representative:Ann Hullihan Leee-mail: jpmlee@sbcglobal.net

Ann is working on plans for your 40threunion celebration on October 9, 10& 11, 2009. Contact Ann if you are will-ing to work on the planning committee.We are also looking for informationon the following alumnae: ValerieWitzkowski Cabrera, KathleenKelly Caliendo, Ann MarieD’Angelo Childress, SallyCovelli, Jill Dullere, KathleenGartner, Anne MarieGeinosky, Mary Glickley,Kathy Parker Guffy, DianeGregory, Catherine BrennanHanley, Patricia Hannon,Andrea Hart, Mary Hochwalt,Karen Jagnow, Jane HasslerKneeland, Margaret SlamaKriz, Laima Lasinkas, JoanneRopiak Leahy, Mary EllenMcDonald, Linda GrecoMcQuaid, Mary Ellen O’Neil,Shirley Paris, Gloria JeanPirok, Julie Ring, NancyGradishar Rutta, ChristineSauer, Joanne Sima Slepicka,Mary Grace Benes Strother,Constance JanowskiSundberg, Regina Wade,Pat Wagner, Shelly Widmar,Bonnie Yakowicz, Linda KohnYurik, Mary Zieman, andDonna Ziobro.

Class of 1970Class Representative:Marie Cison-Hejnale-mail: marieacisonhejnal@sbcglobal.net

Cathy Ford met Rick Jones at thefirst computer dance held at NazarethAcademy with boys from Fenwick in1968. They subsequently married afterboth graduated from the University ofIllinois. They moved to Cambridge, MAfor Rick to attend Harvard Law School.After graduation from law schoolthey moved to Denver, Colorado whereCathy was employed as a paralegal atHolland & Hart and Rick as an attorneywith Davis, Graham & Stubbs. Theymoved to Evergreen, Colorado 20 years

footsteps of St. Paul learn about the riseof early Christianity in this part of theRoman Empire. Ephesus, Pergamum,Sardis, Hierapolis and Istanbul areincluded in this journey. Mothers,Metaphors and Models, January 7-17,2010, is a retreat in the Holy Landremembering women in the Bible. Thisretreat/pilgrimage is for women whowish to reflect on the Scriptures in theland that inspired them. From Galilee tothe desert to Bethlehem to Jerusalem,meet the women significant in ourbiblical faith journey. For moreinformation about both trips contactSr. Marianne at mrace@csjoseph.orgor 708-363-6728.

Class of 1960Class Representative:Susan Brennan Mouncee-mail: susanbmounce@aol.com720 Brighton LaneLa Grange, IL 60525phone: 708-352-5536

Class of ‘60 ~ our 50th reunion willbe in the fall of 2010; it will be on thesame weekend as the NAZ Fall ReunionWeekend (date yet to be determined).Sue

Sue Brennan Mounce is enjoyinganother winter in Tierra Verde, Florida.She and John have undertaken a newactivity - kayaking. They bought 2kayaks and have been paddling in BocaCiega Bay; one day they saw the whitepelicans on a government protectedisland. Their son John joined them for aweek during Christmas vacation; he willcomplete his law school studies thissemester and graduate in May.

Rita Ouska, now Sister Rita Ouska,C.D.S., entered the Congregation of theDivine Spirit in Erie, PA in 1960 twomonths after our Nazareth graduation.She has served in their Ministries ofTeaching, Religious Education, and Careof the Aged in the dioceses of Erie, PAand Youngstown, OH. Currently, Sr. Ritais teaching delightful second gradersat St. James School, Erie. Both herbrothers married Naz grads:MaryMaretta Ouska (1963) andMary LaMarche Ouska(1969). Her niece,Charrise OuskaWillkommen (1989) is a grad,too. Sr. Rita sends, “Blessings,Class of 60, as we approach ourgolden anniversary.“

Class of 1961Class Representative:Sharon Platt Cikaneke-mail: scikanek@sbcglobal.net

Margaret Ford is now retiredfrom a career as a corporate directorof leadership development and wouldlove to reconnect with other classmates.Contact the Alumni Office for her contactinfo.

Joy Matisiak Kasun is an accom-plished artist proficient in the use ofwater color and oil medium to produceprofessional landscapes, still life, andanimals…Joy had a solo exhibit of 39art pieces at La Casa, Omaha, NE lastfall. She is a member of the AssociatedArtists of Omaha, has received numer-ous awards for her accomplishmentsand her art work can be viewed at

www.thelittleartist.com/FineArtbyJoyKasunAbout.html.

Carol McCarthy LaChapelle ispleased to announce the publishing ofher book, Finding Your Voice, Telling YourStories based on her 20 years of teach-ing memoir writing workshops in theChicago area,including atthe NewberryLibrary. Thebook contains167 writingprompts aswell as contri-butions fromreal users, alldesigned tohelp people telltheir personal stories—for themselvesin a private journal, as part of familyhistories, or even to publish. The bookalso contains many of her own stories,including those based on her four yearsat Nazareth. For more information aboutCarol, her book and teaching, pleasego to her website atwww.CarolLaChapelle.com.

Class of 1962Class Representatives:Marlene Carrino Klempemail: bnmklemp@sbcglobal.net

Patt Rowe Klodemail: pklod@nazarethacademy.com

Our sincere sympathy goes out to PegO’Hara Cain on the loss of herhusband, Phil. Many of us have somegreat memories of their performancesin the Naz musicals… back in the day.We wish you peace and comfort, Peg.

Mark your calendars for Homecoming &Reunion Weekend, October 9-11, 2009.It’s reunion time for classes ending in4 and 9, but we’ve decided the Class of’62 shouldn’t wait for its 50th in 2012,especially since we’ve lost so many dearfriends over the past year. No definiteplans have been made to date… anyvolunteers? But we would like to dosomething on Saturday, October 10 andend the weekend with the Alumni Mass& Breakfast here on campus. Thisyear the Mass will be held in our newAuditorium and those who attended acouple years ago were really glad theydid. More news will be forthcoming.Keep in touch and let us know what’sgoing on in your lives. We care. Patt &Marlene

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ago. Cathy isnow an awardwinningwatercolorpainterafter havingdiscovered afew years agothat she istalented inpainting. Sheshows her work at Shadow MountainGallery in Evergreen. Please check outher website at www.evergreenartists.org.Rick is still practicing law as SeniorGeneral Counsel at the AnschutzCorporation. They will celebrate their35th wedding anniversary on May 25,2009. They would love to hearfrom long lost friends atcathyjones1@msn.com.

Class of 1971Class Representative:Patty Casassa Vuoloe-mail: cruella44@aol.comphone: 708-671-0212

The Nazareth Class of ’71 is gatheringinformally at La Pinta Restaurant locatedat 25 Calendar Ave. in La Grange onSunday, March 1, 2009 for 12:30 p.m.brunch. Questions can be directedto Patti Vavra Duffy(630-236-5675 or pvduffy@aol.com)orMary Foran Sodetz(708-361-9511or sodetz@comcast.net)

Class of 1972Class Representatives:Debbie Hale Soldatoe-mail: dsoldato@comcast.netphone: 630-852-1907

Mary Lou Soldatoe-mail: m.soldato@phyps.com

Class of 1973Class Rep still needed!

Class of 1974Class Representative:Linda Pickell Careysend Linda your updates at5210 HowardWestern Springs, IL 60558e-mail: ccarey77@aol.com

Please mark your calendar forHomecoming and Reunion Weekend,October 9, 10 & 11, 2009…timeto celebrate your 35th reunion…details will be posted online asthey become available.

Class of 1975Class Representative:Ita Roynane Luehrsene-mail: itapeach2@aol.com

Class of 1976Class Representative:Wendy Fencle-mail: wendfen@aol.com

Class of 1977Class Rep still needed!

Class of 1978Class Representative Needed!

Class of 1979Class Representatives:Therese Uphues Hawkinsemail: thawkins@nazarethacademy.comMargie Koys Novotnyemail: mmsnovotny@wowway.comPlease mark your calendar for your30th reunion celebration onOctober 9, 10 & 11, 2009…details willbe posted online as they are available.

Class of 1980Class Representative:Cathy Chopp Hinckleye-mail: chinckley@jcaho.org

Class of 1981Class Representative:Jeannie Berg Muldowneye-mail: jmuldo@yahoo.comphone: 708-784-1673658 Courtland CircleWestern Springs, IL 60558

Class of 1982Class Representative:Debbie Vondraseke-mail: dvondrasek@nazarethacademy.com

Class of 1983Class Representatives:Maria Madigan Kellye-mail: pkandmk@hotmail.comKathy Beatty Wunderliche-mail: kw41@ntrs.comphone: 1-877-870-4042We would like to purchase a paverbrick in the Naz Legacy Garden for JoeLePore, our classmate who passed awayin 2007. The cost of the brick is $300.We have $60 left over from our reunionparty and one classmate has offered tocontribute $100.We are halfway there.If you would like to contribute, pleasecontact Maria or Kathy. Thank you!Maria and Kathy.

� ( l- r ) Gail Catezone Tuohy,Tracy Walsh Harris, CathyMaday Oppenborn, Jim Beatty,Kelly Brill Weigand, andMamieO’Connell Fitzgerald enjoyingtheir 25th reunion last fall.

Class of 1984Class Representatives:Elisabeth Huske Stronge-mail: StrongEA@aol.com

Margie Suchy Millere-mail: marmiller01@comcast.net

Mark your calendar for October 9, 10& 11, 2009 for your 25th reunioncelebration…a planning committee isalready working out the details forSaturday’s off-site reunion (Oct 10th)which will be posted as they becomeavailable online. If you are interested inhelping to plan the reunion, or just wantto keep updated about the reunionplans, please join the Nazareth Academyonline community and check the 1984subgroup as well as Facebook andreunite with fellow classmates. We lookforward to seeing as many alumni ascan make it and reminiscing about the“good old days!” Thanks, Beth & Margie

Dominica Tallarico Speigawas recently featured in BusinessPeople of the October 30, 2008 DoingsNewspaper, “Dominica Tallarico ofHinsdale was named Chief OperatingOfficer for Advocate Christ MedicalCenter in Oak Lawn. Tallarico waspreviously vice president for ambulatoryservices and clinical institutes. In theCOO role, Tallarico will oversee allclinical and hospital operations, leadthe Always Say Yes initiative to enhanceefficient admission and transfer ofpatients to the medical center, andwill put focus on campus expansionand programmatic growth, includingconstruction of a new, eight-storybed tower.” The Speiga family livesin Hinsdale, Illinois.

Class of 1985Class Representatives:Bethany Hypes Priestere-mail: bethany.109@comcast.net

Lisa Turano Solanoe-mail: lturano@turanobaking.com

Lisa Turano Solano serves on theKID Board of Directors since 2000. KIDis a national organization based out ofChicago and focuses on Child ProductSafety. The organization is responsiblefor changing the landscape of children’ssafety in the USA. Lisa hosted an eventin her home educating others on theimportance of child product safety whereover 100 people from the area, includingfellow alumni Patti Swain Stark(1985) and Tom Flowers (1983)attended. �

Class of 1986Class Representative:Bill Walshe-mail: wjwfour@hotmail.comphone: 847-668-3323

Jim Navarre and wife,PaulaMcQuade Navarre, have threesons, ages six, four, and two.

Class of 1987Class Representative:Scott Mazure-mail: scottm@promortgagepartners.com

Christa Buck Van Ermen andher husband Thom welcomed theirsecond child Max Van Ermen on Oct.17, 2008. Max is joined by his oldersister Charlotte.

Class of 1988Class Representative:Jennifer Foras Pollarde-mail: jenpollard30@hotmail.com

Class of 1989Class Representative:Kara McMahon Muellere-mail: kmueller@montrose.net

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Class of 1993Class Representatives:Vicki Scelsi van Alphene-mail: vickiva@hotmail.com

Tammy Taylore-mail: MSTAMI3@YAHOO.COM

Corin Griffin Chojnacki and herhusband, Jason, recently relocated toOverland Park, Kansas for her husband’sjob related transfer. The couple wasmarried 10 years in January and Cori isan active stay at home mom with fourchildren, Cole (8), Brooklyn (5), Sierra (3)and Griffin (1). �

Jim Danko and his wife, Aleksa, arepleased to announce the birth of theirtwins Ethan Arnold and Elias James bornon September 11, 2008. The family livesin Chicago, Illinois.

Class of 1994Class Representative:Bridget Bradt Watsone-mail: roadrunnerb2@aol.com

Bridget wants to remind everyone tomark your calendar for October 9, 10& 11, 2009 Homecoming and ReunionWeekend…15 year celebrationfor the Class of 1994!

Dr. Leah Horvath earned herdoctorate in clinical psychology in 2004and now has a faculty position andprivate practice. She married RyanOsgood in September 2008 and theyreside in Chicago.

Class of 1995Class Representative:Margaret Hayes Keenane-mail: mhayes2@artic.edu

Margaret Hayes Keenan and PatrickKeenan (1993) are pleased toannounce the birth of their first child,daughter Bea Alexandra born July 23,2008. The family resides in Monona,Wisconsin.�

MichelleDiGangiKimbler wasmarried on October11, 2008 to TylerKimbler at HeritageGolf Club in Hillard,Ohio. Michelle’sbrother JoeDiGangi (1993)was a groomsman.The couple residesin Hillard whereMichelle is a project coordinator forS. & G. Manufacturing and Distributing.

Tammy SobatkaSegatto and herhusband, James, arepleased to announcethe birth of their sonJackson in June2008. Jackson iswelcomed by hisolder brother Tyler.The family livesin Bolingbrook, Illinois.

Wendy CoteyTourek and herhusband, Tom,

announce the birth of their second child,Joshua Thomas, born May 23, 2008.

Class of 1996Class Representatives:Jessica Andrews Schmitte-mail: jehecekah@myway.com

Carrie Daceyemail: carriedacey@hotmail.com

Amy Klod will marry Patrick Boyleat St. Francis Xavier Church on Friday,February 20, 2009. Amy’s sister,Cathie Klod (1986) is her Maid ofHonor and best friend Jenny KnackReis (1996) is Matron of Honor.Brother, Jim Klod (1985), will cantorand son, Jack, will walk her down theaisle along with her dad. Mom,PattRowe Klod (1962) is very happyfor her daughter and new family.

Class of 1997Class Representative:Autumn Palacz Andronise-mail: autumnpalacz@hotmail.com

Alice Bobber Arnold is pleasedto announce on October 10, 2008, thefamily welcomed their second child,daughter, Erica Florence who is joinedby older brother, Spencer. The familylives in Quincy, Illinois.

Kara wants to remind everyone to markyour calendar for October 9, 10 & 11,2009 for your 20th reunion…details will be posted online or emailKara if you care to be a part of theplanning committee.

Class of 1990Class Representative:Laura Hartz Deckere-mail: HLMDecker@yahoo.com

Nicholas Eipers writes, “In August2008, I founded a jazz record labelcalled Chicago Sessions. It’s a uniquelabel in that the CDs we produce areavailable only by subscription - a seriesof 12 CDs per year, one per month.Acting as Producer and Engineer, I’vebeen recording albums of originalcompositions by the best jazz artists inChicago; Larry Gray, Marshall Vente,Steven Hashimoto’s Mothra, PaulinhoGarcia, and in 2009 will be recordingHoward Levy, Zvonimir Tot, and manyothers. This record label is in addition tomy other work - I still work as a free-lance recording engineer and producer.I’ve been Adjunct Faculty at ColumbiaCollege Chicago, Audio Arts & Acoustics,since 2000.” Check out his company atwww.chicagosessions.com.

Class of 1991Class Representative:Janet Houda Rausche-mail: janet.rausch@comcast.net

BarbaraAndersenis a partner ina law firm thathandles realestate andcommerciallitigation mat-ters in stateand federaltrial courts ona local and national basis. Specifically,she represents construction companies,commercial banks, corporations, titleinsurance companies, partnerships andindividuals with regard to complex litiga-tion matters. Barbara’s litigation practiceincludes matters at both the trial andappellate levels. In 2007, she wasselected to participate in Holland &Knight’s Rising Stars Program, a firmwide leadership, marketing and man-agement program. She has receivednumerous professional honors andawards as well as published articlesand books to her credit.

� Rebecca Boston Merchant and hersiblings,Bill Boston (1993),KarenBoston Trayser (1996) and KimBoston (2001) pose at a BostonFamily gathering last summer

(l- r) Karen holding her daughtersMary Helen and Annie, Merchantchildren Max, Megan and Beccaholding her daughter, Ellie, Kim,Bill holding his son William.

Class of 1992Class Representative:Heather Rak Jugoviche-mail: nice-rak@comcast.net

Peggy Murphy Hasenauer andher husband, Tom, welcomed their firstbaby, Bridget Kathleen, on August 11,2008. The Hasenauer’s moved toWestern Springs in 2008, just blocksfrom Nazareth! Peggy is currently theExecutive Director of The University ofChicago Kovler Diabetes Center- a world-class diabetes research andclinical center. Peggy has worked in vari-ous roles at The University of ChicagoMedical Center over the past ten yearsas a nurse, transplant coordinator andadministrator. She and her husband arethrilled to be in a wonderful communityclose to Nazareth.

Jennifer LeBeda Lemke and herhusband, Steve are expecting their firstchild in May, 2009.

Laura Borowski Lucafo ispleased to announce her marriageto Anthony Lucafo on September 27,2008. The couple honeymooned inItaly and Poland.

MikeMessagiemarried LeslieJoann Reitz ofLake Zurichon November18, 2008 inMaui, Hawaii.Mike isfounderof ElaraHealthcare,Inc. an EMRsoftware startup and former owner ofLocalsound, a Chicago promotionscompany. The couple lives in Chicago.

� Katie Moriarty works atNorthern Trust as a Securities LendingOperations Manager. Part of her jobresponsibilities included trainingNorthern Trust’s office of 1,200 employ-ees in Bangalore, India for six weeks thispast fall. She also had an opportunityto travel to nearby cities during her freetime.

Claire Zervas Olsen works forNewly Weds Foods which is a globalcompany and an ingredient manufactur-er that makes breadcrumbs and sea-soning blends. Claire is a chef whoworks in research and developmentalongside food scientists to develop newproducts for many different restaurantchains and food processors. NewlyWeds started by making the ice creamand cake rolls. The mayor of Chicago atthe time issued a marriage certificateuniting the two. Although they don’tmanufacturer the cake roll any more,they do make the Newly Weds EnglishMuffins. Claire is married and lives inLombard, Illinois.

Class of 1998Class Representative:Lacey Buidosike-mail: LaceyCBuid@aol.com

Rae Rimkus Disco recentlyfinished her second bachelor’s degreeand now holds them in TheatreEducation and English. Her husbandJohnny taught printmaking at ISUlast term where Rae received herdegree. They live in Bloomingtonwith their two dogs and Rae is currentlysubstitute teaching.

Andrew Giordano and his wife,Tanya, had their first child, AbigailElizabeth (Abby) on November 21,2008. Andrew works in Chicago as alicensed wholesale insurance brokerfor Swett & Crawford and recentlyearned his CPCU Designation.

John Kucera just graduated fromStanford Business School, got engagedto a lovely classmate, moved toSan Francisco, and started work atSalesforce.com as a Product Manager.

On June 14, 2008,Ross Sciaccamarried Colleen Faitz. They bought ahome and are currently living in VillaPark, Illinois. Ross is a Team Leaderfor CareerBuilder.com.

Kristin Salvador Sekulichand her husband, Scott, are pleased toannounce the birth of their daughter,Vaughn, born September 14, 2008…She was due September 19,the day of the Naz reunion! �

Tracey Maradei Tucci marriedMichael Tucci on June 7, 2008. Theycurrently live in Sarasota, Florida whereTracey dances for the Sarasota Balletand she was recently promoted to therank of coryphée. In a ballet companythere are different ranks starting withapprentice, corps de ballet, coryphée,and then soloist principal. If you are inSarasota in March Tracey will beperforming in Anna Karenina.

Class of 1999Class Representative:Jeanette Zaurae-mail: jzaura@hotmail.com

Jeanette is working on plans for theoff-site reunion gathering on Saturday,October 10th at a Forest Park establish-ment. Details will be posted online asthey become available.

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� Nick Di Brizzi, Jr. is an actor inLos Angeles, California and is pleased toannounce his engagement to StephaniePerri from Oakbrook, Illinois. Nick pro-posed to Stephanie while riding on agondola in Newport Beach, Californiaover Thanksgiving weekend. Nickrecently appeared on an episode ofthe Nickelodeon show ICarly and isa realtor in the LA area with KellerWilliams Studio Realty and hopes tobe able to join everyone for theten year reunion in the fall.

Nicholas DiForti and his wifeAmy are pleased to announce thebirth of their first born, Nicholas Johnon December 1, 2008. Nick is aHistory/Social Studies teacher atPlainfield North High School and wasjust announced as the head boys’basketball coach, second in the school’shistory. While at Nazareth Nick was atwo-time, all-Private School Leagueselection and co-Most Valuable Playerin 1999. He attended BenedictineUniversity where he helped the Eaglesto the Northern Athletics Conferencechampionship in men’s basketball andwas a member of the NCAA Division IIITournament Team in 2001. Prior toPlainfield, Nick helped coach at MaristHigh School. (Exerpts taken from DennisNelson’s article from The Enterprise,Thursday, 8/21/08.)

Jewel Dulce is planning a June2009 wedding and a charity eventfor the JLC.

Tom Manno opened an independentinsurance agency in Oak Brook calledThe Manno Group in September 2008.Check out his website atwww.MannoGroup.com.

Carrie Prah Woods and herhusband Bryan are the proud parentsof Jacob, who will be two on March 9th,2009. Carrie is a Buyer for Office Maxand the family resides in Bolingbrook.Carrie is looking forward in seeingeveryone for the ten year reunion!

Class of 2000Class Representatives:Maggie Zdarskye-mail: maggie_zdarsky@yahoo.com

Stephanie Smithe-mail: piphiangel2002@yahoo.com

Anthony Rocco is teaching math atRidgewood High School and is also theirhead varsity softball coach and headsophomore football coach.

Class of 2001Class Representative:Lauren Stasicaemail: Lauren.stasica@gmail.com

Maria Onesto Moran iscelebrating the first anniversary of herbusiness, Green Home Experts, a retailstore in Oak Park that specializes ineco-friendly building and home supplies.Check out the store’s website atwww.GHExperts.com.Casey Moranteaches math and coaches footballhere at Nazareth Academy.

Jessica McKinney-Pludemarried Anthony Plude on May 31,2008 in a sunset ceremony in FortMyers Beach, Florida. Anthony is ownerof a fire protection company. Sincegraduation in 2005 from DominicanUniversity, Jessica has been working inhuman resources and currently workingas an Actuarial Recruiting Manager.The couple lives in Crestwood, Illinois.

Class of 2002Class Representatives:Kristan Jonese-mail: ksjones1@illinoisalumni.org

Bridget Dohertye-mail: bridgetkdoherty@gmail.com

� Jennifer Kolodziej Sloan and BrianSloan were married on July 12, 2008,at Divine Infant Catholic Church inWestchester, Illinois. The ceremonywas followed by a beautiful receptionat Cog Hill Golf and Country Club.The wedding party included maidof honor Susie Kolodziej(2008), Erin Lawley, (2002),BethO’Connor, (2002), and KevinSloan, (1997).Karen Sloan,(1996),Kim Sloan, (1999), andJennifer Rackow Sloan, (1997),were also part of the festivities. Thecouple honeymooned in Oahu-Kauai,Hawaii. They reside in Westchester,Illinois. Jen started a new job with

We’re looking for Class Reps.Please call Maryann Polivka,708-387-8545 or email,mgpolivka@nazarethacademy.com

Marquette University shortly after herwedding and is working in their brandnew University Advancement regionaloffice in the Chicago loop. AnyMU alums interested in moreinformation can contact her atjennifer.sloan@mu.edu

Class of 2003Class Representative:Renee Gawlak-Ghenciue-mail: renusia7@yahoo.com.

Lindsey Carpino is in her secondyear of Law School at Loyola Universityin Chicago. She studied InternationalLaw in Rome, Italy the summer of2008 and is the President of Phi AlphaDelta-Law Fraternity at Loyola.

Tom Polansky graduated with aBachelor in Spanish from Beloit Collegeand now lives in Texas where he isemployed with The Pines, a Catholiccamp and year long retreat centerserving fifth through eighth gradersmaking their confirmation as well asothers utilizing their services withinthe Dallas Diocese.

Class of 2004Class Representatives:Steve Ryane-mail: Stephen.j.ryan.jr@gmail.com

Dan Mantuccae-mail: dmantucca@yahoo.com

Jeannie Klisiewicz was hired onthe air during the Friday, October 3,2008 Ellen Degeneres Show as aPersonal Assistant and now lives in LosAngeles, CA. Jeannie has had numerousassignments for the show since shebegan in early November. Her firstassignment was the red carpet for theAmerican Film Institute Awards in LosAngeles followed by a visit to New Yorkfor ‘Gold Digger Across America.’ Fromthere she went to Nashville for ‘GoldDigger’ and the next day she did the redcarpet for the Country Music Awardsalso in Nashville. She spent an overnightwith her family in Sugar Grove, Illinoisand then did ‘Gold Digger’ in thefreezing Chicago temperatures inearly December.�

(photo courtesy of Linda Klisiewicz)

Class of 2005Class Representative:Gia Savianoe-mail: gia_saviano@ben.edu

Trey Epich will be doing an intern-ship with the Round Rock Express, theAAA Team of the Houston Astros. Treygraduates from the University of Texasat Austin in May, 2009.

Kasey McNulty was recentlyselected as a 2008 Orientation StudentLeader (OSL) at Elmhurst College. Therole of the OSL is to facilitate smallgroups of new students in all activitiesand programs scheduled during orienta-tion and selected through a competitiveprocess that includes an application andseveral interviews. Kasey is a juniormajoring in elementary and specialeducation.

Frank Schmidt returned safely inOctober after serving 13 months in Iraq.

Class of 2006Class Representative:Sylvia Spyrkae-mail: sspyrka@gmail.com

DanBrencicis a junior atthe Universityof Illinois inChampaignand studyingin Kenya dur-ing his2008-09school year.In NovemberDan wrote,“I’ve nowbeen in Kenya for close to two monthsand recently moved to Kisumu in west-ern Kenya after spending six weeks inNairobi where I took classesin International Development, CountryAnalysis (about colonialism in Kenya)and Kiswahili language. My time withmy host family in Nairobi was very good.They were very Christian which helpedme focus my experiences within the reli-gious context. During my first six weeksI had some pretty incredible experiencesand was involved with an orphanage inKibera which is the second largest slumin the world. I went to the Giraffe Centreoutside of the city and got up close andpersonal (even kissed!) some giraffes…I went to Uganda with several otherstudents and went whitewater raftingon the Nile River! I have discussed themajority of these experiences on myblog: http://afridan.blogspot.com. I havestarted my internship with a non-govern-mental organization in Kisumu in west-ern Kenya. We visited five rural primaryschools to help register the children for

free medical care through the NationalHealth Insurance Fund in Kenya. Theorganization that I’m working foroperates two rural health clinics wherethese children can come for care. Manyof the kids are orphans and a number ofthem have lost one or both parents toHIV/AIDS. One particular family had sixyoung children and are being cared forby their elderly grandmother becauseboth parents had died. With my intern-ship I hope to do community outreachhealth education. I’ll be working closelywith college students at the InternationalSchool of Medicine and AppliedTechnology in Kisumu as a guestlecturer on Community Health andDevelopment. I will also be conductingsome public health surveys on waterquality and sanitation in rural primaryschools in addition to working with alocal feeding center to improve foodsafety and nutritional quality. I will internwith this organization until the first weekof December. At that time I’ll return toNairobi for a weeklong seminar afterthree weeks off to travel. I will returnto the internship and work from mid-January until the end of April whileconducting field research…I hope all is well at the Academy!”

JohnDoyle isa studentat IndianaUniversitymajoring inFinance in theKelley Schoolof Business;he was a2007 KelleyHonor studentlast year andis studyingabroad in Barcelona, Spain wintersemester. After graduation, John hopesto attain a job in the financial industryand eventually work on his MBA.

Class of 2007Class Representatives:Erin Melonee-mail: emelon01@saintmarys.edu

Sara Hawkinse-mail: shawkins2@uiuc.edu

Blair Gallivan is currently a sopho-more at Elmhurst College majoring inNursing with a minor in Psychology.Blair has recently been accepted intothe Nursing program and plans tograduate in May, 2011.

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Class of 2008Class Representative:Becky Gilberte-mail: rmgilbe@ilstu.edu

MichaelGarabedianis a freshman atDenison Universityand playing wingfor their basketballteam. Mike ismajoring inCommunications.

� Our Naz grads who attend Universityof Iowa: ( l-r, btm-top) ChristineFrymire (2007), Eileen Casey(2006), Jeffrey Spetter (2007);Ellyn Vranicar (2008),Amy Vranicar (2006);Pat Cawley (2008),Christina DalPorto (2007);Dan Smith (2008),Roberto Paniagua (2007).

MichaelStellaattendsNorth CentralCollege and isa member oftheir footballteam andthe AthleticsDepartment.

Ellyn Vranicar is on the Dean’s Listearning straight A’s at the University ofIowa her first semester.

14

In MemoriamSeptember 25, 2008 to January 9, 2009

Please pray for the souls of our departed alumni and their families

Marie SchoenMallaney (1932)Marjorie Flanagan Raichart (1932)Anne Peiffer Knoblock (1944)Dorothy Daily McNichols (1944)

Sister of Patricia Daily Marvin (1944)Louis T. Duerinck

Husband of Patricia Bird Duerinck (1948)JaneWhitworthWagner (1951)Joan Grubinski Altosino (1953)

James PrinceHusband of Angeline Kubiak Prince (1954)

Arlene Szumski Kennedy (1954)James Shanahan

Husband of Marilyn Genovese Shanahan (1956),Brother-in-law of Patricia Genovese Hicks (1958)

And uncle of Jennifer Hicks (1985)Rose Ouska

Mother of Sister Rita Ouska, C.D.S. (1960),Mother-in-law of Mary Maretta Ouska (1963) and

Mary LaMarche Ouska (1969) andGrandmother of Charrise Ouska Willkommen (1989)

Philip CainHusband of Margaret O’Hara Cain (1962),

Father of Ben Cain (1989)and Pete Cain (1990),

Brother-in-law of Susan O’Hara (1956),Elizabeth Ann O’Hara (1966)

and Kathy O’Hara Gurney (1969),uncle of John Gurney (2006)

Mary RoseMaretta Ouska (1963)Mother of Charrise Ouska Willkommen (1989),Sister-in-law of Sister Rita Ouska, C.D.S. (1960)

and Mary LaMarche Ouska (1969)Mary Ann Zanoni Norbut (1967)

Sister of Elizabeth Zanoni Giordano (1969)and Karen Zanoni Meneghini (1973)

Edward R. Carmody, Sr.Father of Susan Carmody (1967)

and Mary Carmody Magruder (1971)Kenneth Zervas

Father of Claire Zervas Olsen (1997)John O’Connor

Grandfather of Megan O’Connor Malloy (1997),Kerry O’Connor (1999),

Elizabeth O’Connor (2002)and Kristen O’Connor (2005)

Ricardo Lopez (2007)

The beautiful, new entrance to NazarethAcademy is enhanced with inscribed

paver bricks. You can become a permanentpart of the legacy garden walkway. Thesecommemorative pavers are a perfect wayto honor Nazareth students, alumni, parents,the Sisters of St. Joseph, faculty and friends.To order your inscribed paver, simply visitour website atwww.nazarethacademy.comand download the order form.

If you have any questions regardingthis program, please contactCarey Harrington via email atcharrington@nazarethacademy.comor by phone at 708-387-8542.

Nazareth Academy continueswith the Legacy Garden

Paver Brick Program

15

Nazareth and Alumni EventsCALENDARClass of 2013

REGISTRATIONThursday, FEBRUARY 26, 2009

PhonathonMonday,Tuesday,

Wednesday,

MARCH 2, 3, 4Monday,Tuesday,

Wednesday,

MARCH 9, 10, 11

Sunday,

MARCH 15, 2009Fashion Show

Sunday,

MARCH 22, 2009Spring Band& ChorusCONCERT

Wednesday, APRIL 1, 2009 IN THE FAMILYThe Breast Cancer Gene Film,sponsored by Parents Club / Mothers Club

Wednesday, APRIL 8, 2009Stations of the Cross

– Sisters Chapel

Friday, MAY 29, 2009Graduation

Thursday,MAY 28, 2009Awards

Assembly

SpringMusical

– Les MisérablesFriday, Saturday, Sunday,

APRIL 24, 25, 26, 2009Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday,

APRIL 30, MAY 1, 2, 3, 2009

Friday, MAY 15, 2009Circle the City

Saturday,

FEBRUARY 28, 2009AUCTIONNaz Amoré

Nazareth Academy1209 W. Ogden Ave.LaGrange Park, Illinois 60526

Non-Profit OrgU.S. Postage

PAIDAddison, IL

Permit No. 210

Forwarding Service Requested

INSIDE THIS ISSUEPresident’s & Principal’s Letter

ALUM you Should Know

Athletic Hall of Fame

Capital Campaign

Nazareth Academy Development

Alumni Updates

In Memoriam

Calendar of Events

BlueprintBUI L D I N G C O N F I D E N C E , C R E AT I N G L E A D E R S

S P O N S O R E D B Y T H E C O N G R E G AT I O N O F S T . J O S E P H

N A Z A R E T H A C A D E M Y. C O M W I N T E R 2 0 0 9

In the Family ScreeningPlease join us at Nazareth Academy on Wednesday evening, April 1, 2009at 7:00 p.m. in the school auditorium when we screen the documentary“In the Family” by Joanna Rudnick as highlighted in the Chicago Tribunemagazine last October. We hope to have a professional panel after thescreening for questions and answers. The screening is hosted by the NazarethAcademy Mother and Parent Clubs and is in collaboration with P.O.V. www.pbs.org/pov.

Please go to the following link for a three minute screening of the film:http://www.pbs.org/pov/pov2008/inthefamily/.

IN THE FAMILY

Save the Date!Homecoming& Reunions 2 0 0 9Friday, Saturday, Sunday, OCTOBER 9, 10, 11, 2009