the collegiate - winter 2012 edition

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IN THIS ISSUE : L A S ALLIAN 2012 S IGNUM F IDEI H ONOREES C OACH OF THE Y EAR A C OMMUNITY OF E XCELLENCE ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE WINTER 2012 THE COLLEGIATE

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This edition of the official St. Joe's quarterly magazine features a profile of Section VI Coach of the Year Mike Thoin, a photo spread from Lasallian 2012 and exciting school news.

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: The Collegiate - Winter 2012 Edition

i n t h i s i s s u e : L a s a L L i a n 2 0 1 2s i g n u m F i d e i h o n o r e e s

C o a C h o F t h e Y e a r

a C o m m u n i t Y o F e x C e L L e n C e

ST. JOSEPH’SCOLLEGIATE INSTITUTE

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Page 2: The Collegiate - Winter 2012 Edition

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thecollegiateWINTER 2012 | VOLUME 12 | ISSUE 2

President Robert T. Scott, AFSC

Editor & Director of Marketing CommunicationsKate LaBrake

PhotographyKate LaBrakeJames P. McCoy

The Collegiate is published three times per year by St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute.

716.874.4024

www.sjci.com

Cover Photo:Student volunteers serve hors d'oeuvres at Lasallian 2012: The Marauders' Ball "Masquerade" Gala and Dinner Auction on February 4.

Robert T. Scott, AFSC

The buzz about St. Joe's

If you’ve had the opportunity to step onto the St. Joe’s campus within the last year, you’ve probably felt the electricity that surrounds the school. It started during our Sesquicentennial Celebration but it certainly didn’t end there. Instead, it continues to grow.

You could feel this undeniable excitement from wall to wall on the night of Saturday, February 4, when hundreds of alumni packed into the Hogan Gymnasium for Lasallian 2012: The Marauders’ Ball Masquerade Gala & Dinner Auction. Our largest annual fundraiser, which is directly entirely toward tuition assistance, this year’s Gala was even more successful than we could have imagined.

575 attendees at this sold-out event represented, literally, decades of alumni, parents and friends. These generous individuals – some who have frequented the event for years and others who were first-time guests – were there for one reason: To support the young men who continue the St. Joe’s tradition that each of us holds so meaningful.

The atmosphere was absolutely magnetic. Tables of friends old and new buzzed with enthusiasm as they collectively contributed over $315,000 for the students who represent the future of our St. Joe’s. This excitement carried on well into

the night as guests wined, dined, bid, and even “danced the night away.”

As great as it was, the Lasallian Gala was only the beginning of a wonderfully exciting week. Two days later, we welcomed the new members of the SJCI Class of 2016 as they officially registered for the fall. These bright and very talented young men and their families, representing areas from throughout Western New York, spoke with our faculty, visited our bookstore, and walked through the halls of St. Joe’s with smiles on their faces as they took their first steps as Marauders.

Back in January, we sent out acceptance packets to these same young men in hopes that they would spend the next four years with us. The response was significant: Parents and students sent cards, placed phone calls, and visited the campus to express their gratitude. We heard from moms, dads and the young men themselves; some whose family legacies are rooted in St. Joe’s, others who are beginning a new St. Joe’s tradition. Many families, many stories, but one common theme: Excitement.

After over four decades at St. Joe’s, I still eagerly anticipate each new academic year and each new class of St. Joe’s students. I also

realize that each new class, and each of our students who attend St. Joe’s, comes here with significant support. Being able to watch our students study, grow and achieve is a blessing that is afforded solely

through the dedication of you, our St. Joe’s community – our benefactors, parents, faculty, staff, alumni and friends – each of you help to support the young men who are “entrusted to our care.” Together, with your help, we carry the mission of St. John Baptist de La Salle into the future. To me, without any doubt, there is nothing more exciting!

St. John Baptist de La Salle…pray for us!

Live Jesus in our hearts…forever!

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Volunteer waiters pass hors d'oeuvres to guests at Lasallian 2012

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in thisissueWINTER 2012

4 Fall Sports Roundup 5 Coach of the Year 6 Service Projects 7 Lasallian Gala and Auction 8 School News 9 Alumni Mentors

10 In the Spotlight 11 Alumni Association News 12 Alumni Weekend 13-17 Alumni Notes 14-15 Signum Fidei Honorees

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For legions of alumni and current students, attending St. Joe’s is a family tradition. Their fathers, grandfathers and, in many cases, great-grandfathers preceded them in walking the hallowed halls of St. Joe’s.

Ken ’80, Carl ’84 and Adam ’01 Almeter’s father, Tom ’50, is proud to say that he is a member of the first class to graduate from the “new” location at 845 Kenmore Avenue. Tom was followed by his late brother, Paul ’53, whose grandsons, Nicholas Shotwell ’13 and Michael Pearl ’15, are at St. Joe’s now, along with Carl’s sons, Benjamin ’12, Taylor ’12 and Andrew ’15. Ken’s son Eric graduated in 2010.

“There are many fine high schools in Western New York, but St. Joe’s is different," said Carl '84. "First, there is the unwavering pride alumni have in the school. Second, the sense of community and brotherhood is palpable. Third, you develop or hone your moral compass while at St. Joe’s. And lastly, there is an expectation – on the part of teachers, parents and the students themselves – that St. Joe’s students will become leaders in any field they enter. ”

Andrew reflected on being the 11th member of the family to attend St. Joe’s: “It’s fantastic to have had so many members of your family go to Joe’s. You’re proud to be an Almeter and equally proud the Almeters are part of St. Joe’s.”

Andrew, Ben and Taylor are joined by almost 100 of our current students who have a father or grandfather who graduated from St. Joe’s, including Joey Balthasar, a current freshman. His father, Joseph Balthasar, graduated in 1985. His grandfather, John, graduated in 1939 and his great-grandfather was at St. Joe's in the 1910’s.

“As an alumnus, I know that the real value of a St. Joe's education is entirely related to something that is less obvious, something deeper, something that is tough to describe," said Joseph '85. "I do not know exactly what it is. I am sure that ‘it’ is derived from the school's philosophy and mission, and from the dedication of the outstanding faculty, and from the pride expressed by the students and from the alumni.”

Any story about legacy families has to include the extended Leberer family. Last week, Jim Leberer ’47 stopped by to ask for five more copies of the recent annual fund appeal, an unusual request. The mailer included a hologram showing two class photos: One

from the early 1900s, the other more recent. As it turned out, the earlier photo included Jim’s father (Joseph A. Leberer ’17), while the more recent photo included two of his grandsons (Oliver Beardsley ’10 and Patrick Schaefer ’10). What are the odds of this happening? Well, when it comes to the Leberer family, with 21 St. Joe’s graduates (and more on the way), the odds are pretty good, as you can see in the chart above.

We want to hear about your family's experiences at St. Joe’s. Email us at [email protected] with your story and some current family photos. With your input, we will soon devote a page on our website to our Legacy families.

We will also celebrate our legacy families at the All-Class Alumni Family Mass and Brunch on Sunday, June 24th, at 10:30 a.m. here at the school. A professional portrait photographer will be on hand to take your family’s photo. We look forward to honoring your legacy.

Celebrating Legacy Families at St. Joe’s

celebratinglegacyfamilies

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fallsportsroundup

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This fall was a thrilling season of big wins for St. Joe's athletics. In this Fall Sports Roundup, we'll highlight this season's top achievers.

MMHSAA ChampionsVarsity Boys Soccer

All New York State (5th Team)Julian Olin '12 - Soccer

All-Western New York Scholar Athletes

Joseph Comer '12 - FootballRobert Heary '12 - Volleyball

Julian Olin '12 - Soccer

All-WNY (1st Team)Chad Kelly '12 - FootballJulian Olin '12 - SoccerJohn Vara '12 - Soccer

All-WNY (2nd Team)Kyle Briggs '12 - FootballNigel Davis '14 - Football

Robert Heary '12 - Volleyball

All-WNY (3rd Team)Jordan Sanders '12 - FootballAnthony Yarussi '13 - Soccer

Honorable MentionYanni Zulia '12 - Football

All-Catholic (1st Team)Dave Arthur '12 - SoccerKyle Briggs '12 - FootballNigel Davis '14 - Football

Connor Hagner '12 - SoccerJoe Hacherl '12 - Volleyball

Robert Heary '12 - VolleyballChad Kelly '12 - FootballJulian Olin '12 - Soccer

Roderick Payne '12 - FootballJordan Sanders '12 - Football

Billy Stephan '12 - SoccerGarrett Stephens '12 - Football

Jon Vara '12 - SoccerAnthony Yarussi '12 - Soccer

Yanni Zulia '12 - Football

All-Catholic (2nd Team)Jake Bargnesi '12 - FootballWill Boerema '14 - SoccerJack Heary '13- VolleyballDan Kersten '12 - Soccer

Blase LaDuca '12- FootballIlo Noble '12 - Football

Branden Scales '12 - SoccerFranklin Spina '12 - Football

More Football Honors

New York State Sportswriters Association Class AA Player of the Year

Chad Kelly '12

Buffalo News Player of the YearChad Kelly '12

Connolly Cup WinnerChad Kelly '12

WIVB Scholar Athlete of the MonthDecember 2011Kyle Briggs '12

WNY Unsung Player of the YearJordan Sanders '12

Msgr. Martin Title Game Co-Defensive Player of the Game and Msgr. Martin

Defensive MVPRod Payne '12

Jim Kelly Underclassmen of the Year on Offense

Nigel Davis '14

Msgr. Martin Offensive Player of the Year Chad Kelly '12

Editor's NoteThe Collegiate Fall 2011 edition featured seniors on the Varsity Football

team. The following seniors were regretfully omitted: Yanni Zulia '12 and Nathan O'Brien '12. St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute congratulates Yanni and Nathan on their accomplishments on and off the field.

Fall Sports Round-Up

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coachoftheyear

Ask Varsity Soccer Coach Mike Thoin what brought his team to win the MMHSAA Championships over Canisius this fall, and he has a lot to say.

“Team chemistry led the team to the title,” said Thoin. “Along with a willingness to work hard and play hard all the time. We’ve got great kids who have an incredible ability to put in the extra effort. Even when a player was injured, other players would step up and make up for the absence. They have spirit, and that’s what sets us apart.”

However, ask Coach Thoin why he was chosen by his peers to be Section VI Coach of the Year, and he’s at a loss for words.

“I have no idea,” he said, shaking his head after a silent pause. “I can’t even answer that question.”

Yes, Mike Thoin is humble to say the least. But he has plenty of reasons to be proud: Not only was he voted Coach of the Year for Western New York (Section VI), but he is the only coach from a Catholic school to have ever received the honor. His Championship winning team was voted the No. 1 ranked large school WNY, and their 15-1-3 record season included four wins over Canisius.

Even with these accomplish-ments, Coach Thoin was surprised when he first heard of the honor.

“I found out that I was named Coach of the Year through a congratulatory email,” Thoin explained. “I read it and almost fell out of my chair. Later, the head of the Western New York Officials Unit, who was also a former goalie of mine, sent me an email with only two words: ‘Wow. Congratulations.’ That felt amazing to read.”

A veteran soccer coach with 13 years at St. Joe’s, Mike Thoin also works as a guidance counselor at the school. Though the two roles may seem very different, Thoin asserts that the skills used to succeed in each position are very similar.

“As a guidance counselor, my job is to truly listen to each of the kids who come by my office,” he explained. “That’s critical as a coach, too. I don’t just guide the players, I listen more than other coaches might. I try to let the kids be themselves and help any way they need it.”

Soccer is a family tradition for Coach Thoin. A father of three

talented soccer players (Bryon ’02, David ’08 and Meghan), and son of St. Joe’s soccer fanatic Philip Thoin, Coach Thoin states that his proudest moment was watching his sons take charge as team captains during their senior years at St. Joe’s.

“Coaching my sons could have been a difficult situation, especially because they were captains,” said Thoin. “But both Bryon and David made it easy. They identified really good kids for the team – not just great players, but great kids all-around. That makes a difference.”

Coming off this Championship year, Thoin is already looking forward to next season.

“I'm incredibly thankful for having the staff in place, like fellow coach Mike Folts, who dedicate themselves to putting the team in the best possible position to win,” said Thoin. “We want to help them succeed both as individuals and as a team. That’s what being a coach is about.”

Varsity Soccer Coach Mike Thoin on teamwork, dedication and his Section VI Coach of the Year title.

St. Joe's Varsity Soccer Coach Mike Thoin poses with his Coach of the Year plaques.Thoin received the title in late December after being nominated by his coaching peers across Western New York.

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St. Joe's students spread Christmas cheer through service

seasonofservice

Service didn't end after the holiday season. The St. Joe’s Federation Hockey Team gave back on Martin Luther King Day by volunteering at the Food Bank of Western New York. 22 players and two coaches processed a total of 6,300 pounds of food donations in the organization’s warehouse.

“It was a good bonding experience for the team, but at the same time we were humbled by the experience,” said Kyle Moslow ’13. “Helping the less fortunate through service is what St. Joe’s is all about. It’s what our team is all about. We understand that our actions off the ice are more important than those on the ice.”

Federation Hockey team gives back on MLK Day

LEFT: The Swing Choir performs "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" at ECMC. RIGHT: The Varsity Singers perform at Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

From the gift of song to the gift of life-sustaining food, St. Joe's students spread the meaning of Christmas by giving back to their community in December 2011.

The Swing Choir, composed of students from St. Joe's and local girls' schools, performed lively concerts of Christmas classics at ECMC, The Cantalician Center, Camp Good Days and more.

Meanwhile, the St. Joe's Varsity Singers inspired audiences with their uplifting performances at locations including Roswell Park Cancer Institute. They performed traditional Christmas favorites like "We Three Kings" as well as contemporary hits like "Sweet Caroline."

Audiences of nurses, patients and families cheered through each performance. For Swing Choir and Varsity Singers director James Deiotte, this is what makes the difference.

"The most moving for me are the eyes of younger people, children that are ill, or not advantaged, and the love our students share with them," said Deiotte, who has taught at St. Joe's since 1974.

"It's great to see a child looking up at you and smiling," said Adam Roaldi ’12, a member of both Swing Choir and Varsity Singers. "It's the best feeling in the world to know you made his day, and it's a priviledge to share this with someone."

Song was not the only gift that St. Joe's students provided this Christmas. Students from the St. Joe’s Food Basket collected around 15,000 donated food items to benefit the Warming House in Olean and other local soup kitchens.

Students who participated in the Food Basket dedicated their time each day to make it a success. They came to school early each morning to count donations, rallied their classmates to contribute, and packed and unloaded the items.

In its 41st year, the Food Basket provides donations that largely sustain the Warming House. These thousands of items allow the center to feed thousands of hot meals to local needy families year-round.

Page 7: The Collegiate - Winter 2012 Edition

Lasallian 2012: Marauders' Ball Masquerade

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FALL 2011

There’s no “masking” the success of Lasallian 2012. The Marauders’ “Masquerade” Gala & Dinner Auction held on February 4th seated an over-capacity crowd of 575 alumni, parents and guests and raised over $315,000 in net funds for student financial and scholarship support.

Christened a “family reunion” by President Robert Scott, the celebration assembled by chair couple James ’87 & Lynn Panepinto and their committee was visually and textually elegant. Student valets greeted guests while a custom-carved St. Joe’s ice sculpture was the first sign as they stepped into the foyer that they were “home.” The student Jazz Lab Band wowed everyone early in the evening while alumni musicians Steve Coffed ’11, Aidan Ryan ’11 and Henry Brown ’11 rocked the post-dinner, balloon-festooned Bistro area. Guests were treated to custom-framed photos as mementos, delicious cuisine by Oliver’s, and stunning maroon and silver tablescapes.

Masks off to James & Lynn for this tremendous success and who now hand the chairmanship for Lasallian 2013 to Bob ’75 & Sue Kreppel.

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More photos online!Were you spotted at

Lasallian 2012? See photos at www.sjci.com/lasallian-2012.

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happeningaroundschool

Anything GoesFriday, March 9 at 7 p.m.

Satursday, March 10 at 7 p.m.Sunday, March 11 at 2 p.m.

Rockwell HallBuffalo State College

1300 Elmwood AvenueCall 874-4955 for tickets

Get your tickets to the St. Joe's spring musical Anything Goes, a Broadway classic with a quirky cast, spellbinding soundtrack, and transatlantic love story! Performances will be held on March 9th, 10th and 11th at Rockwell Hall on the Buffalo State College campus.

The story is set aboard a luxury liner bound for London and concerns Billy Crocker's comic pursuit of socialite Hope Harcourt as he hides aboard the ship on which she is traveling with her titled fiance. The plot is enlivened with nightclub singer/evangelist Reno Sweeney and the real and supposed public enemies sought by the captain to spice up the voyage.

This song and dance-packed production features an ensemble cast and includes songs like I Get a Kick out of You, It's De-Lovely and You're the Top.

Starring are St. Joe's very own Pat Blosat '13, Mike Boltri '13, Kevin Harmon '12, Jacob Kraft '13, Ian LaLonde '12, Josh Ranallo '12, Adam Roaldi '12 and Tim Weppner '13, as well as many talented actresses from local girls' schools.

Call 874-4955 to reserve your tickets to this dazzling Cole Porter classic, on stage March 9th, 10th and 11th at Buffalo State College's Rockwell Hall. Don't let this ship set sail without you!

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Tickets on sale for "Anything Goes!"

The first black player in the National Hockey League (NHL), Willie O'Ree, spoke about his career to St. Joe's hockey players on February 15th.

O'Ree's story chronicled lessons in overcoming adversity. Not only did O'Ree break the color barrier by playing for the Boston Bruins in 1958, but he also learned to play the sport with vision in only one eye after suffering a hockey-related injury.

Though he faced much discrimi-nation, O'Ree never let it deter him from his goal of NHL stardom.

"I wouldn't let any comments about my race get to me," said O'Ree during his presentation. "I knew that the people who made those comments were plain ignorant, and there was nothing I could do but continue to play hard and be myself."

O'Ree stressed the importance of

staying in school, working hard and believing in one's own abilities to keep goals.

"If you think you can, you can," he told students. "If you think you can't, you're right."

During the event, O’Ree was also reunited with his former Quebec Aces team mate from over 55 years ago, Joe Crozier. Crozier is a retired head coach for the Buffalo Sabres and the father of St. Joe’s Varsity Hockey Head Coach Rich Crozier '94.

Over 120 students were in attendance, including members of the St. Joe's Federation, Varsity, Junior Varsity and Freshmen hockey teams.

O'Ree, who is now the director of youth development and hockey

ambassador for NHL Diversity, visited the school during a weekend in Buffalo coordinated by Hasek's Heroes, a non-profit organization that provides kids with opportunities to learn and play hockey.

First Black NHL Player Speaks at St. Joe's

LEFT TO RIGHT: Joe Crozier, Federation hockey player Robert Amos '12, Willie O'Ree and Rich Crozier '94

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alumnimentors

When St. Joe’s alumni are asked to give of their time, treasure and talent, they respond in spades. That is certainly the case when it comes to the 100+ alumni who have returned to the school as guest speakers, instructors and mentors this past year.

Some are faculty members. Others coach our athletic teams, and still others come back for our Distinguished Alumni Speaker Series. In any role, our diverse alumni use their knowledge and experience to enrich the education of students at 845 Kenmore Avenue.

Dr. James L. Karnes ’81 is not only a member of the St. Joe’s Alumni Association, but he has been a very important part of the St. Joe’s Science Department over the past several years. When the new Cullen Center for Excellence in Science was still in its planning phase, Dr. Karnes developed a summer Gross Anatomy class that he now offers to students from St. Joe’s and local girls’ schools.

It provides students with an opportunity to take a college-level class with college-level perks: upon

completion, students earn four college and one lab credit.

“The Gross Anatomy class was really helpful to me,” said Ryan O’Hara ’12. “It wasn’t only great because it taught me what a college class would be like, but it also gave me a huge edge on the competition when I get to my Pre-Med courses in college.”

Alumni also give back by teaching workshops. Retired North Tonawanda district art teacher Dennis G. Golombek ’62 worked with the St. Joe’s Art Department to participate in the Celebration of the Arts during the school’s Sesquicentennial Celebration, and later gave his time to teach art workshops as an artist in residence.

Dennis was pleased that he was able to help inspire current students the way he was when he was a student here 50 years ago. “This was a great experience” said Dennis. “I really enjoyed doing it for the students, and hope to do it again in the future.”

“Coming back to St. Joe's is always a great experience” says Steven J. Coffed ’11, who helps in the Music Department. “I think of the times when alumni came back to help the groups I was participating in, and

how much it helped me. I enjoy being able to do the same. At the same time, it has allowed me to reconnect with some staff at St. Joe's who have helped me network in the job market. It's a win-win situation.”

Steve and two of his classmates, Aidan Ryan and Henry Brown, also performed musically at the Lasallian Gala and Dinner Auction in February.

The current opportunities that St. Joe’s offers are:

Collegiate Summer SpeakersGuidance Office SpeakersScience Department Speakers Internship Opportunities (Alumni who offer

internships for students)Summer Education OpportunitiesArtist in ResidenceCoachesFacultyDistinguished Speaker SeriesMusicians who work with the Music DepartmentCampus Ministry Retreat Program

If you are interested in any of these opportunities, or are interested in volunteering in a different manner, please contact Chris Zanghi ’95, Director of Alumni Relations at [email protected] or (716) 270-4113.

Tickets on sale for "Anything Goes!"

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Alumni inspire through mentoring

New York State Senator Tim Kennedy '94 speaks to Jim Roland's science class during a campus visit

Dennis Golombek '62 works with students through the Artists in Residence Program

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Joe Cormier '94

When eighth grader Joe Cormier had to choose which high school to attend, the answer was clear.

"It wasn't even a choice for me," Cormier said. "I wanted to participate in the best academic and athletic programs and I knew that St. Joe's would put me in the best environment to succeed after graduation."

Joe stuck to his goal, making the most of his four years at St. Joe's. A gifted athlete, Joe was team captain of the Varsity Football and Baseball teams. He led the Varsity Football team to a Monsignor Martin Championship as a senior, and was awarded the Philip J. Scaffidi Scholarship.

But Joe didn’t make the most of only the athletic program. He was a three-year member of Student Council, served as senior class treasurer and was honored as Senior of the Year. He exceled in the Varsity Singers/Glee Club and Jazz

Lab Band, and remained dedicated to academics through challenging courses like Advanced Placement English.

After graduation, Joe headed to Columbia College in New York, where he pursued a degree in Economics and Political Science while playing football for the Columbia Lions. He made the most of the school’s Manhattan address to land internships in one of the world’s financial epicenters.

“Wall Street was close to campus and gave me a great exposure to the finance world,” Joe explained. “It led me to investment banking, where I got visibility to the boardroom and helped companies in their path to growth right out of college."

Joe got more than boardroom visibility while working as an investment banker with Banc of America Securities, LLC through 2003. He also connected with influential investors and corporations that led him further in his career. He eventually traded the world of investment banking to take the role of vice president of corporate development for DigitalNet, and later senior vice president of corporate development for ManTech International in 2005.

In January 2010, Joe joined Global Defense Technology and Systems, Inc., a national security and technology services business in Herndon, VA. As executive vice president and chief financial officer, Joe was charged with managing the accounting, finance, mergers and acquisitions and investor relations of the public entity.

A major event occurred in April 2011, when an equity firm bought the company, providing sizable returns to the public shareholders. Global Defense Technology and Systems, Inc. went private and adopted its current

name, Sotera Defense Solutions, Inc. This significant change created many challenges as the company expanded.

“Growing a company presents a lot of reporting, accounting and systematic challenges,” Cormier explained. “The current economic climate makes it tough for us to lean forward and balance investment while delivering returns.”

As tough as it was, growing Sotera in a cash-strapped economy is exactly what Joe helped to do. Sotera has doubled in size over two years, boasting approximately $400 million in annual revenue. Its 1,600 employees provide essential services in counterterrorism, cyber security, data analytics and more to the Department of Defense and intelligence community.

“The team is critical,” Joe said of his employees. “You need to have the right people in place to deliver. We all have to work together to help the CEO have visibility of any possible obstacles to our strategic plan and be realistic about what we can accomplish.”

Joe continues to support his local community. On top of his full-time job, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) National Capital Chapter and works with Junior Achievement of Greater Washington.

With a growing company, a Board appointment, a wife (Erica) and three young daughters at home (Samantha, 6; Sienna, 4; and Sloane, 2), Joe still takes time to remember his years at St. Joe's and offers advice to students.

"St. Joe's gives you the grounding to be successful," he said. "Cherish the years you have there. Make the most of them as they create the foundation you can rely on later in life."

Growing a business is tough. The economy is even tougher. So when technology services provider Sotera Defense Solutions faced rapid expansion in a turbulent economy, they needed someone who knew how to make the most of every opportunity. Luckily, they had executive vice president and chief financial officer Joe Cormier '94, who's been doing just that his entire life.

Joe Cormier '94

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connectingalumni

During its 150th anniversary, St. Joe’s alumni brought tremendous energy and camaraderie to events throughout the year. To build upon that momentum, the Alumni Association developed the Class Agent Program, which will serve to keep classmates engaged in the school’s activities, mission and future.

“This is a great opportunity for us to reconnect with a lot of our classmates and keep our class informed about what is going on at St. Joe's and in each other’s lives,” said Jon Rossi ’08. “We developed a great spirit of camaraderie during our four years together, and this program is a great way to continue that spirit long into the future.”

Jon’s classmate, Kevin Gill, echoed that sentiment. “This new Class Agent Program will help continue to bind together the St. Joe's alumni. As a 2008 class agent, I look forward to showing my former classmates that the door to

St. Joe's and the school's community is always open.”

Each class will have two to three Lead Agents and four to five Class Agents who will:

• keep all classmates updated regarding marriages, births, promotions, etc.

• gather and share updated contact information

• plan class reunions

• inform classmates about key events on campus

• encourage classmates to support current students.

“For me, being a class agent means staying connected to the place where many of us received our inspiration,” said David Croglio ’11. “It allows that brotherhood which formed great

friendships and values to stay alive for years to come!”

Gene Pohancsek ’95 was excited to participate as a Class Agent because it serves the need for more comprehensive outreach. “Information that is sent en masse from Alumni Relations is great, but it sometimes lacks that personal connection,” Pohancsek explained. “The Class Agent Program will ensure that alumni will be hearing from fellow classmates. I am happy to be involved and want to let the class of 1995 know that they will be hearing from me soon and often!”

This new program is sure to change the way St. Joe’s communicates with its alumni, and the way alumni engage with the school. If you are interested in becoming a Class Agent, please contact Christopher J. Zanghi ’95, Director of Alumni Relations, at (716) 270-4113 or [email protected].

Class Agent Program Launched

This year's St. Joe’s Man of the Year award is being presented to Donald R. McMahon ’70.

Don's involvement with the St. Joe's Alumni Association began in 1987 and his dedication and leadership continues to this day. He has participated in almost every Alumni Association event during that 25-year period. Don was the chairperson of the Bob Ivory ’47 5K Run committee from 1988 to 1994 and again from 2006 to the present, and was a member of the committee every year that he was not the chairperson. Don was

also a member of the St. Joe's Alumni Scholarship Formation Committee. He served three terms as treasurer of the Alumni Association in the mid 1990’s, was elected President in 2006 and served in that position until 2008. Don is also a past member of the St. Joe's Board of Trustees.

Presented at the Father/Son Communion Brunch & Mass on March 25th, the Man of the Year honor is given annually to a person who has demonstrated a continued commitment to

St. Joe's, and their involvement must be indicative of service to the St. Joe's community.

All students and their fathers, and alumni and their sons are invited to join us for this very special celebration:

2012 Father/Son Communion Brunch & Mass and St. Joe's Man of the Year

Award CeremonySunday, March 25 at 10:30 a.m.

in the Hogan Gymnasium at St. Joe's

To RSVP for this event, please contact Christopher J. Zanghi ’95, Director of Alumni Relations at [email protected] or (716) 270-4113. Please be sure to indicate how many and who will be attending.

There is no charge for this event, but an offering at Mass will help defray costs and provide support for the work of selected charities.

The Alumni Association will have a photographer on hand if you would like to have your picture taken with all the Marauders in your family.

Man of the Year: Donald R. McMahon '70

Man of the Year Donald McMahon '70

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alumniweekend2012Alumni Weekend 2012: June 22-24

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St. Joe’s will celebrate our annual Alumni Weekend from June 22nd through June 24th this year. This exciting weekend is for ALL St. Joe’s alumni, not only who are celebrating reunions.

The weekend tees off on Friday, June 22nd with the All-Alumni Golf Tournament at Glen Oak Golf Course. The cost of the golf tournament is $130 per golfer, or $520 for a foursome. We even offer a special price for our young alumni between the classes of 2007 and 2012 of $100 per golfer, or $400 for a foursome.

These prices include 18 holes of golf, cart with GPS navigation system, a buffet lunch before teeing off, a prime rib and chicken dinner following the round, a special giveaway for all golfers and countless door prizes. This event has sold out in the past, so be sure to reserve your place quickly.

On Saturday, June 23rd, St. Joe’s will host the 2nd annual All-Alumni Soccer Game at 10 a.m. at the Robert T. Scott, AFSC Athletic Field Complex. All former members of the St. Joe’s soccer program are encouraged to join in the fun. The cost for the soccer game will be $30 per player, and will include a St. Joe’s Soccer Alumni t-shirt and entry into the St. Joe’s All-Alumni Family Picnic.

The All-Alumni Family Picnic will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 23rd, and will feature live music from Full Moon Social with alumnus Gerry Gismondi ’95, a climbing wall from Niagara Climbing Center, bounce house, face painting, arts and crafts, beer tasting and wine tasting from City Wine

Merchant (owned by Eric Genau ’94), and Chiavetta’s BBQ for lunch.

This wonderful, family friendly event has plenty to offer for people of all ages. We will also be giving away three iPod Shuffles as well as many door prizes. (You must be present to win.) Cost for the picnic is $25 per adult, and children are FREE!

On Saturday evening, all Reunion classes (1947, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002 and 2007) will hold their Individual Class Reunions at locations around Buffalo. Check the St. Joe’s website periodically for updates on all reunion details, including locations, times and costs.

The weekend will conclude on Sunday, June 24th when we honor St. Joe’s legacy families during the annual All-Alumni Mass and Brunch at 10:30 a.m. at the school. If you are a member of a family with more than one generation of alumni, please

let us know by emailing Christopher J. Zanghi ’95, Director of Alumni Relations, at [email protected]. Be sure to include all members of your legacy family with an indication of who the patriarch of the family is, so we can send your family a special invitation. We will have a photographer on-hand to take family photos for all who are interested.

Final details on all events will be included in the formal Alumni Weekend 2012 invitation that will be sent to all reunion year and local alumni in mid-April. If you are an out-of-town, non-reunion year alum, and would like to attend any of the Alumni Weekend activities, you can register online in mid-April.

Please direct all questions or inquiries concerning Alumni Weekend 2012 to Christopher J. Zanghi, Director of Alumni Relations, at [email protected] or (716) 270-4113.

Golfers from the class of 1990 enjoy the golf tournament at a past Alumni Weekend

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1950'sFrederick G. Attea '57, a partner with Phillips Lytle LLP, has been appointed to a three-year term on the Nativity Miguel Middle School of Buffalo Board of Trustees. He focuses his practice on securities and corporate work.

Gerald H. Greene Jr. '57 was the 2011 recipient of the Legal Aid Society's Equal Justice Leadership Award in Cincinnati. This award is given to individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to legal justice and who lead others by example. For the past nine years, Gerry has worked, pro bono, at the Legal Aid Society, using his time and talents on behalf of low-income families and victims of domestic violence. Gerry tackles the most difficult divorce and custody cases with passion and dedication. This is the second time Legal Aid has presented this award. Gerry will also be inducted into the St. Joe’s Signum Fidei Society on April 21, 2012.

Norman H. Wentland '58 recently retired from Schneider Electric as managing director. Norm and his wife, Marilyn, reside in Crystal Lake, IL.

1960's

Robert M. Greene '62, a partner at Phillips Lytle LLP, was honored by Every Person Influences Children (EPIC), at its 30th anniversary celebration, with the Robert L. Wilson Award, presented in the spirit of the founder of EPIC, who dedicated his life to improving the lives of children.

Richard J. Herdlein III, PhD '62 has received the Outstanding Alumni Award for lifetime achievement and contributions to St. John Fisher College. Richard was the founding president of the local Alumni Chapter and has a long history of support for the college including fundraising, participation and development of alumni activities and serving as an alumni representative for student recruitment programs. Richard currently serves as associate professor

of Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration at the State University of New York College at Buffalo after a successful 31-year career in college/university administration, including 21 years as vice president for student affairs and dean of students. He has received numerous awards including Instructor and Administrator of the Year and is a recipient of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Internationalization and the Fulbright Senior Specialist Award. Richard currently serves as vice president for Erie County, Western New York/Northwestern Pennsylvania Chapter of the Fulbright Association.

Patrick J. McGroder III ’63 has been elected president of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL). IATL represents the 500 best trial lawyers in the United States as judged by their peers. Pat leads Gallagher & Kennedy's Personal Injury Practice. He and his wife, Susan, reside in Phoenix.

Thomas C. Kingston '67 will be inducted into the DiGamma Honor Society at Canisius College in March, 2012. This prestigious society is composed of "men and women for others" who distinguish themselves by working for the advancement of the college and who provide exemplary service on behalf of students and alumni. Tom is vice president of finance and administration at Ivoclar Vivadent, Inc. in Amherst, NY.

Steven J. Rodriguez '67 retired as the assistant secretary for administration at the U.S. Department of State after 35 years of federal service. He is currently engaged as a Senior Advisor to various Department of State senior management officials. Steve and his wife, Ylva, reside in Falls Church, VA.

Michael D. Kotowski '68 has retired after 35 years in the Alaskan oil and gas industry. Michael is enjoying training and running his young golden retriever in field trials and hunt tests, as well as still enjoying the Alaskan outdoors.

1970's

James J. Pestka, PhD '71, a faculty member in the Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) and AgBioResearch scientist, has been named a University Distinguished Professor in recognition of his achievements in the classroom, laboratory and community. The University Distinguished Professor recognition is among the highest honors that can be bestowed on a faculty member by the university.

William E. Fallon '72 has been nominated for the Executive Committee for the USGA (United States Golf Association) for 2012. Bill is the Executive Vice President for PNC Bank, responsible for commercial credit decisioning, including corporate finance, healthcare, business credit and capital markets. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium with assignments on the executive, finance and strategic planning committees. He is a member of the USGA Regional Affairs Committee, and is a rules official for the Western Pennsylvania Golf Association. Bill previously served as general chairman of the 2003 U.S. Amateur, group chairman of the 2007 U.S. Open and vice chairman of the 2010 U.S. Women's Open.

David J. Nasca '75, president and chief executive officer of Evans Bancorp, Inc., has been named chairperson of the 2012 Catholic Charities of Buffalo Appeal. David follows Gregory P. Maher ’80 and Michael A. Whipple ’90 in this position.

Anthony J. Colucci III '76 has been nominated as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention from the 27th Congressional District and will appear on the June NY Primary ballot in that capacity. Anthony is the managing partner at Colucci & Gallaher, PC, and is the current Chairman of the St. Joe's Board of Trustees.

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Signum Fidei Induction: April 21, 2012Since 1984, St. Joseph's Collegiate

Institute honors a group of alumni for their distinguished achievements in their career, community involvement and exemplification of the values of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. This lifetime achievement award is the highest accolade bestowed by the school.

"Signum Fidei" (sign of faith) is the characteristic spirit of the Christian Brothers, the founders and guiding presence of St. Joe's. Theirs is that attitude of faith, which expresses itself in love and zeal for the welfare of others. A member of the Signum Fidei Society is an alumnus who is distinguished in his career and community, and who shares in the spirit of the Christian Brothers.

The 2012 Signum Fidei Induction Ceremony will be held on April 21st at Brookfield Country Club at 6 p.m. This year, five men will be inducted into this distinguished society:

Gerald H. Greene Jr. ’57 graduated Cum Laude from the University of Detroit in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. From there, Gerry went on to Purdue University, where he earned a Master of Science degree in civil engineering the next year. Gerry served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from 1963 to 1965. In 1965, Gerry began his career at Procter & Gamble, where he worked for the next 33 years. At the company, Gerry ascended to manager – Global Projects Management and Construction Management, and was responsible for worldwide capital project management and construction programs totaling $2.5 billion annually. Upon his retirement in 1998, Gerry went back to school and received his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Dayton School of Law, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2002. Gerry has been a volunteer attorney with Legal Aid

Society of Greater Cincinnati since 2002, and in 2011, was the recipient of the Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati’s Equal Justice Leadership Award. He was also awarded the 2012 Cincinnati Bar Association’s Warrington Award for Community Service.

Paul J. Harder ’65 began his career at Niagara Trading Company, an importer of food products from Asia. Working primarily out of Taiwan, the

company afforded him the first of many opportunities to travel internationally. From there, he went on to be president of Bufkor, Inc., a manufacturer of packaging and displays for jewelry and other luxury goods. He acquired Auto Radiator Sales, Inc. (ARS) in 1987 and sold it to Ford Motor Company in 1999. Following ARS's divestiture, Paul turned his attention to venture capital investments, serving in 2001 as Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the Western New York Technology Development Corporation (TDC). Since 2000, he has participated in 11 angel investments,

providing financing for high-growth start-up companies. His work with the TDC sparked his interest in assisting the State University of New York at Buffalo (UB) in securing state funding for the new Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. Most recently, Paul was president of Cliffstar Corp., a major Dunkirk, NY manufacturer. Presently, Paul serves as managing partner in CHEPII, LLC, a private equity

investment firm, and CEO of Clinical Support Services.

Richard F. Cronin ’68 graduated from Canisius College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1972. He went on to the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he received his MBA in 1981. Rick began working as a claims representative for the Social Security Administration in 1974. His title may have changed, but for 37 years, the employer stayed the same until he retired in 2011. Since 1975, Rick has been a volunteer union representative/executive officer for the American Federation of Government Employees. Rick is an active member of the St. Margaret’s Buffalo Parish Council, where he served as vice president from 1992 to 1998 and as president since 1998. He has served as St. Margaret's Parish Chairman for Catholic Charities since 1993. In

2008, Rick received the Lay Award of St. Joseph the Worker by the Diocese of Buffalo. He's been a member of the St. Joe’s Alumni Association since 1979, and has held the offices of president and vice president, and co-founded the annual St. Joe’s Bob Ivory ’47 5K Run with fellow Signum Fidei Society member and classmate, the late Thomas C. Toy ’68. Rick was honored as the St. Joe’s Man of the Year in 2010.

Ronald J. Tanski ’70 earned a Bachelor of Arts in biology, Master of Business Administration and Juris Doctor

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Michael S. Albert, M.D. '78 was recently re-elected President of the medical staff at Buffalo Mercy Hospital. Dr. Albert has been chairman of the hospital's pathology department since 2001 and resides in Orchard Park with his wife, Melissa, and their five children.

John M. Tepas '78 has been named vice president of engineering and member of the Executive Board of Behr America in Troy, MI. John and his wife, Susan, reside in Ann Arbor, MI.

1980's

Raymond G. Collins '81 was recently inducted into the St. Bonaventure University radio station "Hall of Fame." Ray anchored the news in Buffalo, Richmond and Tampa Bay. He now owns a video production and media training company in Sarasota, Florida. Thomas Schuh '80 was involved in organizing the Hall of Fame for St. Bonaventure's popular campus radio station.

Thomas J. Comer '81 and his wife, Jean, were the chair couple for the "Making a Difference Dinner - A Celebration of Catholic Schools." The annual dinner raises funds dedicated to need-based tuition assistance for students attending Catholic elementary schools in the Diocese of Buffalo. Tom and Jean were also the 2011 St. Joe's Lasallian Dinner and Auction chair couple.

Joseph C. DiStasio '82 was recently a panelist on The Business First sponsored event, "Employee Engagement: Everything You Need To Know To Become a Best Place To Work." Joseph and his wife, Nancy, reside in Williamsville, NY.

Andrew T. Beiter '83 was honored by the National Federation for Just Communities of Western New York at its 2012 Community Leader Award Luncheon in January. Andrew, an eighth-grade social studies teacher at Springville Middle School, is raising awareness of human rights and genocide prevention. He organized student projects to raise funds for humanitarian projects in Africa and Afghanistan, and recently organized a conference for 30 Rwandan teachers on the holocaust in Kigali. He is a Regional Education Coordinator for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, a Teacher Fellow for the Lowell Milken Center for Tolerance in Kansas, and the Director for the Summer Institute for Human Rights and Genocide Studies in Buffalo. As a board member for Buffalo for Africa and the Holocaust Resource Center of Buffalo, he has organized numerous workshops on human rights and genocide prevention.

degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He is the president and chief operating officer of National Fuel Gas Company. He also serves as director of National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation, Seneca Resources Corporation, National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation, and Empire Pipeline, Inc. Ron joined National Fuel as an attorney in 1979 and has served in both regulated and non-regulated businesses. From 2004 to 2010, Ron was treasurer and principal financial officer of the company and served as president of National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation from 2008-2010. Before that, Ron served as president of National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation. His experience includes management position tenures at Seneca Resources Corporation, in Houston; Empire Exploration, Inc., the Company’s Appalachian exploration and production subsidiary; and Horizon Energy Development, Inc., National Fuel’s energy-project development subsidiary. Ron is a Board member of the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA) and is a member of the Council on Accountancy at Canisius College.

David J. Nasca ’75 graduated from Canisius College in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree in management and marketing, and in 1983 from the State University of New York at Buffalo with an MBA in finance. David has been in the banking business in Western New York since 1981. He is currently the president and chief executive officer of Evans Bancorp, Inc. in Hamburg. David is the chair of the 2012 Annual Catholic Charities Appeal for the Diocese of Buffalo seeking to raise $10.6 million. This is the largest Social Services - direct service organization in Western New York, serving over 140,000 people. David is a former recipient of Business First's 40 Under Forty award and was recognized by Business First as being one of the 125 Most Influential People in Western New York in 2012. He serves on several boards in the community and in the banking industry. He has served two separate six-year terms on the St. Joe’s Board of Trustees, and has been a member of the Signum Fidei Selection Committee since its inception 29 years ago.

To register for this event, visit www.sjci.com. Cost for this event is $85 per person – tables of 10 are available for $850. For more information, contact Christopher J. Zanghi ’95, Director of Alumni Relations, at [email protected] or (716) 270-4113.

Signum Fidei Honorees, cont'd.

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alumninotesRabbi Jeffrey Kurtz-Lendner '84 was invited to the White House for the 2011 President's Annual Hanukkah Celebration. Jeff, along with his wife, Robin, had the opportunity to meet the president and Mrs. Obama. Jeff is currently the Senior Rabbi of Temple Solel in Hollywood, FL and is President of the Broward County Board of Rabbis.

Lawrence C. DiGiulio '85 has been elected president of the Niagara Frontier Corporate Counsel Association Inc., a non-profit group of in-house attorneys in Western New York, for 2011-2012. Larry is Vice President and General Counsel for Independent Health Association. He and his wife, Shelly, reside in Snyder, NY.

Jeffrey F. Voelkl '85 has been named a partner in the law firm Robshaw & Voelkl, formerly known as Robshaw & Associates, P.C. Jeff will continue to practice in the areas of litigation, contested estates, landlord/tenant evictions, business and corporate law and real estate. Jeff also continues to serve as judge in the Village of Williamsville, acting judge in the Buffalo City Court, and acting judge in the Tonawanda City Court.

Jody L. Lomeo '86, CEO of Erie County Medical Center Corp., oversaw the ribbon cutting ceremony on a new $27 million Regional Center of Excellence for Transplantation and Kidney Care at the hospital's Health Campus in December. Experts have hailed this

as an impressive national model in the transplantation and kidney care field. Jody was quoted as saying, "This is another tangible step in the transformation of health care in Buffalo, and the first clinical collaboration between ECMC and Kaleida, and we couldn't be more pleased."

1990's

Brendan P. Kelleher '94 has returned to Hodgson Russ after serving as general counsel to the City of Buffalo School District. He will serve as a partner in the law firm's Buffalo office in Education Law, Labor and Employment, Employment Litigation and Municipal Law Practice Groups. Brendan will also be the keynote speaker at the St. Joe's National Honors Society Induction Dinner on March 28, 2012. Brendan and his wife, Jennifer, reside in Buffalo.

Kevin R. Talbot '94 has been elected partner at Hodgson Russ. A significant portion of Kevin's practice involves representing private and public companies, both domestically and internationally, in complex acquisitions and disposition transactions, joint ventures, and restructuring transactions. Kevin has experience assisting private equity firms, financial institutions, corporate management, and privately held and public companies in all aspects of mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and leveraged buyout and venture capital transactions. Kevin and his wife, Deborah, reside in North Tonawanda, NY.

Richard "Jay" Anderson '95 is a reservist and currently serving in the Middle East under Navy Expeditionary Combat Command. He looks forward to returning to his family and the Amherst Town Board this summer.

Joseph M. Tripi '96, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Western District, was selected to receive the 2011 FBI Directors Community Leadership Award. The FBI initiated the leadership award in 1990 to honor those who provide civil rights education and put forth efforts to combat crime. Joseph joined the USAO in Buffalo in January 2008 following four years as an assistant district attorney in Nassau County. Following an assignment in the Narcotics and Violent Crimes Division, he currently works in the USAO's National Security Division, which oversees federal gang prosecutions. Joseph's primary prosecutive work is centered on the investigations of the FBI's Safe Streets Task Force.

Bradley L. Sendlak '98 was named an associate at Watts Architecture and Engineering, a progressive minority-owned architecture and engineering firm, with offices in Buffalo and Syracuse. Watts provides a broad range of services and is the home to architects, engineers, environmental scientists, technicians and special consultants. Bradley and his wife, Elizabeth, reside in Lockport, NY.

2000'sKyle J. Ciminelli '00 has been promoted to Director at Newmark Knight Frank. In addition to the promotion, Kyle has also received the "Mid-Level Broker of the Year" award at Newmark and "Most Significant Deal of the Year" award from SL Green (SL Green is the largest landlord in Manhattan) for representing Pace University in the acquisition of a new custom 140,000 square foot dormitory in downtown Manhattan.

Christopher M. Evans '00 and his wife, Meagan, both received their doctorate degrees in chemistry from the University of Rochester in May 2011, and are both doing their post doctorate work in Chicago, IL; Meagan at the University of Chicago and Chris at Northwestern University.

David M. Leggio '02 is a goaltender in his fourth professional hockey season.

Dr. Joseph Bieron '55 signs a copy of SJCI 150 for President Robert T. Scott, AFSC

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In Memoriam

Thomas M. Bluemle '87Marvin F. DeBoy '34

Thomas J. Fitzgerald '45Edward Jones '46

Arthur W. Klaffka '42Maximilian

Kozminski Jr. '50Mary Catherine MarinoLeo Joseph Magee ’43Salvatore Mistretta '42

John F. Neuner '50Christina M. Nowak

Jerome J. Phillips '47Suzanne Pietrowski

Nicholas Riso '49John A. Splett

Benjamin VanAllen '47William G. Wahler '42

C. Douglas Wallach '54Michael A. Wopperer '73

Jeanne M. Zenger

Weddings & Engagements

James P. Baumann '89 and his wife, Laura, are pleased to announce the birth of their third child, Matthew Seamus, born December 1, 2011. He joins older brother Andrew and older sister Grace. James and his family reside in Clarence Center, NY.

J. Patrick Lennon '94 and his wife, Rose, are pleased to announce the birth of their daughter, Neve Annamarie, born on November 6, 2011. Patrick is an assistant district attorney in Erie County.

Craig A. Rudzinski, R.Ph. '96 and his wife Maureen, are pleased to announce the birth of their second child, George James, born July 28, 2011. He joins his sister, Emma Rose, born March 23, 2010. Craig is a pharmacist in Tonawanda, NY.

Andrew L. Spitler '00 and his wife, Bridget, are pleased to announce the birth of their son, Sean McAndrew Spitler, on July 5, 2011. Andrew and his family reside in Kenmore, NY.

Births

Kevin P. Roe '89 married Elaine Vanater on November 11, 2011 at sea off the island of Maui, surrounded by family and friends. Kevin is a Senior Software Engineer for The Maui High Performance Computing Center (MHPCC).

Johnathan A. Graves '03 is engaged to Carla Smith and an October 2012 wedding is planned. Johnathan is the Relationship Development Manager at Upstate NY Transplant Services (UNYTS) and Carla is a math teacher at Buffalo United Charter School. Their wedding will take place at Canisus College, where the couple met, followed by a reception at the Hotel Lafayette.

David has had several "stops" along the way to the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League (AHL), including four years at Clarkson University, the Binghamton Senators of the AHL, and the Florida Everblades of the East Coast Hockey League, before moving on to Finland, where he played in the top Finnish hockey league. From there, the Buffalo Sabres signed David to an AHL level contract with the Portland Pirates. After a record of 22-12 with the Pirates, the Sabres re-signed him to a deal with the Amerks where he has amassed a record of 11-9-1, a goals against average of 2.72 and a save percentage of 0.915%. David is one level away from the Buffalo Sabres and the NHL.

Michael J. Ministero '04 has been hired as a lead client support engineer at Accessium Group, Inc., a technology solutions company specializing in

picture archiving and communication systems, electronic medical records and practice management systems. He will be responsible for project work at new sites, major changes and new clients. Michael resides in Buffalo.

Joseph R. McHenry '10 is living a busy but very rewarding life in Washington, DC. In addition to studying International Development at The George Washington University, Joe is a program coordinator for GW's chapter of a DC elementary tutoring program and also interning as a research assistant for a group of historians who are publishing Eleanor Roosevelt's personal correspondences during her life after leaving the White House. In addition, Joe spent 10 days in early January, in Guatemala working with a NGO constructing a vocational school out of sustainable materials – literally plastic bottles as bricks and used tires packed with dirt as walls.

What's new?Send us your updates so we can feature you in the next edition of The Collegiate!

Contact Director of Alumni Relations Chris Zanghi at (716) 270-4113 or email

[email protected].

alumninotes“The priest celebrating Doug's Mass told a story about Doug and his friends riding a city bus on the way to school one blizzardy morning. They hopped off the bus to get coffee at an out-of-the-way diner, thinking, ‘What’s the harm? We're so late anyway.’ Minutes later, Brother C. Patrick appeared out of nowhere and sent them on the next bus to school. They never figured out how he nailed them.

“Doug loved his high school. It provided him with a great education ... and enough stories to last a lifetime.”

- Mrs. Donna Wallach, wife of the late Douglas Wallach '54

SJCI Memory

Page 18: The Collegiate - Winter 2012 Edition

A Co m m u n i t y o f Ex C E l l E n C E

St. JoSePh’Scollegiate iNStitUte

845 Kenmore AvenueBuffalo, NY 14223-3195

Address Service Requested

NON-PROFITORGANIZATION

U.S. POSTAGE

P A I DBUFFALO, NY

PERMIT NO. 83

PARENTS: If The Collegiate is addressed to a graduated son who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please clip the address label and return it with the correct address to: St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, Attn: The Collegiate, 845 Kenmore Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14223-3195.

The Mission of

sT. Joseph’s CollegiaTe insTiTuTe

"sT. Joseph's CollegiaTe insTiTuTe (sJCi) is a CaTholiC, independenT College-preparaTory high sChool eduCaTing young Men of diverse baCkgrounds in The TradiTion of sT. John bapTisT de la salle.

Through a broad and balanCed, huMan and ChrisTian eduCaTion, sJCi guides The developMenT of eaCh sTudenT's unique TalenTs,

fosTering a CoMMiTMenT To aCadeMiC exCellenCe, serviCe, and leadership

in The global CoMMuniTy."

Let us remember we are in the Holy Presence of God.

St. John Baptist de La Salle...pray for us.Live Jesus in our hearts...forever.

The St. Joe's Varsity Basketball team takes on Nanyang Model School from Shanghai, China in January. The Chinese student athletes stayed with St. Joe's players and their

families, met with Mayor Byron Brown, and visited Niagara Falls during their stay.