Alumni Newsletters
November 2024 Newsletter
From Your Alumni & Development Team - Rich Feitel, Greg Jaskot '00 & Suzanne Berry
2024-2025 Annual Fund Drive - Why We Need Your Financial Support.
Fall Sports Update
Good Time Had by All at the Grand Reunion
The Search for Missing Alums Continues...
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
Students, Faculty, Parents, and Alumni Volunteer Their Services on "Houli Day!"
Class Competition Winners
1. 1981 $156,595 1. 2024 37%
2. 1974 $64,848 2. 1983 25%
3. 1975 $24,281 3. 1968 20%
4. 1979 $18,920 4. 1974 19%
5. 1969 $17,735 5. 1967 16%
Alumni Briefs
In Memoriam
Contact Us
Rich Feitel, Director, 860-346-7735 x732, [email protected]
October 2024 Newsletter
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September 2024 Newsletter
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August 2024 Newsletter
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July 2024 Newsletter
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June 2024 Newsletter
A Thank You and Plea from the Alumni & Development Directors:
Rich Feitel & Greg Jaskot ’00
Need Summer Employees, Interns, or Part-Time Employees Year-Round?
For the Graduating Classes of 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984,
1989, 1994, 1999, 2009, 2014, 2019
ALL CLASS REUNION at XHS
HOLD THE DATES
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 & 5, 2024
Detailed information will be coming soon!
The Class of 2004 is planning their own Reunion in July
AROUND & ABOUT
- Tim Boyle ’13 is hosting his annual QB / WR Camp on campus on Saturday, June 29. The camp is open to students in grades 5-12. To learn more and register, click here.
- To read about the major award winners as well as the valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2024, click here.
- The Xavier golf team won the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) Championship on May 28! The team shot a total score of 314.
- Earlier this month, Matthew Sobieski ’24 was recognized as the Middletown Rotary Club Student of the Month for March during a luncheon at the Wadsworth Mansion!
- Congratulations to the Outdoor Track & Field team on capturing their second straight Class L State title on May 30. They topped second-place Windsor by a score of 125 to 124.5.
ALUMNI UPDATES
IN MEMORIAM
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ’11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M ’83, P’18, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, [email protected]
May 2024 Newsletter
Since early February, Greg Jaskot and I have been sending out personalized appeal letters to members of the Classes of 1967 to 2019. The final mailing went out the first week of April.
To date, we have received contributions from nearly 200 alumni totaling more than $180,000! I know there are many more of you who intend to support your alma mater this year but have not gotten around to it yet. Just a reminder that the fiscal year for Xavier High School ends on June 30, 2024. Please fill out your pledge envelope today and mail your tax-deductible donation or go on the school web site and do it electronically. Less than 2 months left to get it in!
Greg and I greatly appreciate any amount you can give to help Xavier continue to flourish and to help provide financial aid to families that otherwise would not be able to send their son(s) to this fabulous high school. Over 50% of our young men receive aid with the average award being $5,400. Tuition is now $17,500!
I look forward to receiving hundreds more contributions from those of you who greatly value your Xavier education.
Sincere thanks,
Rich Feitel
Need Summer Employees, Interns, or Part-Time Employees Year-Round?
1989, 1994, 1999, 2009, 2014, 2019
ALL CLASS REUNION at XHS
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 & 5, 2024
The Class of 2004 is planning their own Reunion in July
AROUND & ABOUT
- Congratulations to seniors Kieran Driscoll and classmate Kyle Levesque on being named CAS-CIAC Scholar-Athletes.
- Recently, three individuals and one Xavier team were inducted into the Middletown Sprots Hall of Fame. Congratulations to Football standout Shea Dwyer '06, baseball infielder Paul Kostacopoulos '83, wrestling head coach Mike Cunningham, and the LL State Champion 2005 football team. Click here to learn more.
- Twenty Xavier students recently traveled to South Dakota with faculty and staff for a mission trip. Click here to read about the experience.
- Xavier announced its Third Quarter Honor Roll. Congrats to the 400 students that were recognized for their work in the classroom. Click here to learn more.
ALUMNI UPDATES
NEW Alumni Spotlight: Provide some detail on you or a classmate, your family, career and accomplishments. Your info will be shared with students in the main hallway and on other school media outlets. Click here to submit your spotlight today! For more information contact alumnidevelopment@
IN MEMORIAM
David Micciulla '73. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Edward F. Kycia '79. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Brother James P. Eckert C.F.X. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Kevin Callahan '69 and former faculty member.
Mrs. Andrea Krupke Halladay, mother of Jeff Krupke ’77, John Krupke ’77 and James Krupke ’82.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ’11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Greg Jaskot '00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M '83, P'18, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, [email protected]
April 2024 Newsletter
From the Alumni & Development Office:
Personalized appeal letters to support Xavier High School were mailed to alumni in February and March from the both of us. The results of that mailing have been very gratifying. Approximately 125 donations have been received and/or pledged during that time totaling slightly more than $150,000!
We know many more of you plan to contribute and look forward to receiving hundreds of additional contributions before fiscal year 2023-2024 ends on June 30th. Please do what you can to help make sure we have sufficient funds to provide financial aid to qualified and needy students, enhance academic, athletic, and campus ministry programs, and continue to provide our students with the very best faculty and staff.
Please fill out the pledge form/envelope you received and return it with your tax-deductible contribution today! Or log onto the Xavier High School website and follow the instructions to donate. Any contribution you make will be greatly appreciated, especially by the young men here at Xavier who directly benefit from your generosity.
Either one of us is available to answer any questions you may have.
Rich Feitel
[email protected]
860-346-7735, Ext 732
Need Summer Employees, Interns, or Part-Time Employees Year-Round?
If you own or manage a business and are looking for young men to fill any positions, Xavier High School students are available!
As a new service to our alumni and students, a “Jobs Available Board” will be posted outside the Alumni & Development Office. All you need to do is send a job description of the position(s) available with contact information, and we will post it on the Board. A student(s) will directly contact you to apply.
Please feel free to contact Rich Feitel or Greg Jaskot '00 or call the Office (860-346-7735, Ext 737) for additional information.
AROUND & ABOUT
- Congratulations to senior William McDougall and classmate Owen Carter on receiving CAS Outstanding Arts Awards at last week’s statewide banquet!
- Our Student Activities Council conducted a toiletry drive for the St. Sebastian Church Outreach Program. The more than 2,000 items collected were used in making Blessing Bags at Easter for those in need in the local community.
- We had another successful Blood Drive with the American Red Cross on March 13! Through the generosity and help of our students, faculty, and staff we were able to collect 50 units of blood. Thank you to everyone in the Xavier community for your support.
- Join us Thursday, April 25 for the first annual Xavier / Mercy Alumni Social! Hear from Xavier President Rick Misenti '72 and Mercy President Alissa DeJonge '95 with updates! Reminisce with classmates and other Mercy & Xavier grads while enjoying appetizers from Lino’s Cafe and beverages including beer, wine, soda, and water! RSVP Today!
ALUMNI UPDATES
- Congratulations to Mike Kohs ’84 on being named the 2024 SCC Boys Basketball Coach of the Year!
- Ryan Child ’17 graduated last May from Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences with honors and became a Pharmacist in July of 2023. Ryan currently works as a Clinical Pharmacist for Advent Health in Florida.
NEW Alumni Spotlight: Provide some detail on you or a classmate, your family, career and accomplishments. Your info will be shared with students in the main hallway and on other school media outlets. Click here to submit your spotlight today! For more information contact alumnidevelopment@
IN MEMORIAM
Jennifer Wood Perkins, wife of Merrill Perkins ’74. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Francis (Frank) Rudini, former football coach. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Daniel Field, former faculty member. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Stephen Sandagata ’84. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Donna Wilson, former faculty member and mother of Kevin Wilson ’81.
Dennis Costello, father of Paul '87 and Thomas '93, grandfather of Jonathon '28. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Mark Gingras ’67. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagr
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ’11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown CT 06457
Rich Feitel, Director, 860-346-7735 x732, rfeitel@
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, gjaskot@
Suzanne Berry M ’83, P’18, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, [email protected]
March 2024 Newsletter
FROM THE OFFICE OF ALUMNI & DEVELOPMENT
Back in the 1980’s and 90’s, the Xavier Alumni Association was always one of the top rated Catholic High School organizations in the country regarding percentage of participation of donors to the Annual Fund Drive and Financial Aid Fund. From 1995 to 1997, Xavier was in the top 1% of all Catholic High Schools in the United States. Graduates of this fabulous High School were so proud of that accomplishment!
Our primary goal going forward is to significantly improve the current rate of participation and to try to get back to similar levels of giving that we experienced in the past. To do that, we know this Office needs to do a better job building and maintaining relations with our graduates and to better serve your needs. We pledge to do everything in our power to do that and to earn your support again, or for the first time, in the years ahead.
As starters, we are reinstating a system of Class Reps, rebuilding the Alumni Board of Directors, planning to help more with organizing Class Reunions, doing personalized outreach to alumni, and conducting at least quarterly alumni events. That’s a “full plate” for us right now, but we would love to hear from you if you have any specific ideas that you think will help us to achieve our goals.
Please feel free to contact any of us at the Alumni & Development Office by calling 860-346-7735, Ext. 743 or email [email protected] or [email protected].
AROUND & ABOUT
- Greg Woods ’73 gave a powerful presentation to our student body and staff as part of celebration of Black History Month. To read the story, CLICK HERE.
- The 32nd Annual Black & White Auction sponsored by the Xavier Home & School Association will take place on March 23, 2024 in the Kohs Gymnasium. Get your tickets to the even, HERE.
- The Wrestling team won their fourth consecutive Class L State title and third consecutive CIAC State Open Championship in February!
- The Indoor Track and Field team captured their third consecutive Class L State title last month!
- Ticket sales for the 25K Cash Raffle have begun! Click here for more information and to get your tickets today!
- Xavier has many Eagle Scouts walking our halls! Click here to read about three of our dedicated Falcons!
ALUMNI UPDATES
- Congratulations to Mike Kohs ’84 on being named the 2024 SCC Boys Basketball Coach of the Year!
- Ryan Child ’17 graduated last May from Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences with honors and became a Pharmacist in July of 2023. Ryan currently works as a Clinical Pharmacist for Advent Health in Florida.
- PJ Cavaliere ’20 was recognized as the lone graduating senior affiliated with the Villanova Men’s Basketball team for the class of 2024. PJ has been a student manager with the program since 2021, initially under the direction of Naismith Hall of Fame Coach Jay Wright, followed by current Head Coach Kyle Neptune. Baker Dunleavy, General Manager of Villanova Men’s and Women’s Basketball, presented PJ's jersey to him during a halftime court ceremony during Senior Night at the Finneran Pavilion on campus. He was joined by his parents, Mary and Carl Cavaliere, brother Alex Cavaliere ’18, and cousin Christina Vuocolo.
NEW Alumni Spotlight: Provide some detail on you or a classmate, your family, career and accomplishments. Your info will be shared with students in the main hallway and on other school media outlets. Click here to submit your spotlight today! For more information contact [email protected].
IN MEMORIAM
William (Bill) Hoey, Sr. '75. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ’11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown CT 06457
Rich Feitel, Director, 860-346-7735 x732, [email protected]
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M ’83, P’18, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, [email protected]
February 2024 Newsletter
Meet the New Director of Alumni & Development
Rich Feitel here. I’m baaaack! Never thought that I would return to the same position and same office I left when I retired from Xavier nearly 26 years ago. But when President and alumnus Rick Misenti ’72 and Board member Ron Cozean ’81 reached out to me a few weeks ago and asked if I would fill the vacated position of Alumni & Development Director, I just couldn’t say no. This school has been such an important part of my life for nearly 56 years and next to my immediate family, there is nothing I love more. The years I spent here from 1968 to 1997, whether in the classroom, coaching, or as the Alumni & Development Director, are filled with so many fond memories. And most of my closest friends today are ones that I established during my years at Xavier High School.
I am thrilled to join Rick, Assistant Alumni & Development Director Greg Jaskot ’00, and Office Manager Suzanne Berry and look forward to working with them going forward. All share my passion for this incredible high school, and we vow to work tirelessly to rebuild the Alumni Association to better serve your needs and to get financial support back to the levels achieved in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s.
Greg and I will be reaching out to you in the weeks ahead for your physical and financial support. We would like to reestablish the “Class Reps” system and hopefully get at least 2 alums from each class to serve in these positions. We would also like to form Reunion Committees for those classes that will be celebrating reunions this year or next year. Please let us know if you are interested in serving in either of these positions. Just call the Alumni & Development Office at 860-346-7735, ext. 737 and we’ll put you to work. Most of all, we will need your financial support to fund educational and athletic programs and provide additional financial aid so Xavier can continue to flourish in the years ahead.
I look forward to reconnecting with many of you now that I’m back and meeting many of the younger graduates from the Class of 1998 to the present. Please feel free to drop by or give me or Greg a call. Greg can be reached at 860-346-7735, Ext.733. I can be reached at Ext. 732.
AROUND & ABOUT
- Xavier celebrated the beginning of Lent with a special Ash Wednesday Mass earlier this week. Click here to view some photos from the day on Facebook.
- Xavier Announced our SECOND QUARTER HONOR ROLL last week! Congratulations to the 294 students that earned recognition for their hard work in the classroom! Click here to learn more.
- The 32nd Annual Black & White Auction sponsored by the Xavier Home & School Association will take place on March 23, 2024 in the Kohs Gymnasium.
- On Friday, February 2, we held our annual Junior Ring Ceremony. Click here to view a photo gallery of the special day for the Class of 2025!
- The Wrestling team won their seventh straight SCC Championship this past Saturday!
- The Indoor Track and Field team captured their third consecutive Class L State Title last weekend!
- Ticket sales for the 25K Cash Raffle have begun! Click here for more information and to get your tickets today!
ALUMNI UPDATES
- Congratulations to Anthony Caramanica ‘16 on his marriage! Anthony tied the knot with Hannah Theriault on January 13. His Xavier classmate Kevin Lawrence ‘16 was the best man!
- Vincent Cervoni ’86 was elected as the Mayor of Wallingford!
- William Kaye ‘20, George Luke ‘20, and James Dickman ‘20 traveled to the Vatican over Christmas break and attended the pontifical mass for the nativity.
- Emmett Coughlin ’13 graduated with a medical degree from University College Dublin in 2023 and is now working at Galway University Hospital. Dr. Coughlin recently presented joint research at the Metabolic Surgery Conference in Dublin, Ireland.
- Michael Celentano ’19 graduated from Marist College in 2023 and is currently working as an Undergraduate Admissions Counselor at Iona University in New Rochelle, New York.
- Connor Dwyer ’19 graduated from Fordham in 2022 and he is currently working for the Houston Astros as a Coordinator of Baseball Operations.
- Joshua Fazzino ’18 graduated from Bryant University with a degree in Business Administration in 2022. He is currently a Financial Advisor for LPL Financial.
- Carson Waldron ’20 is the President and Editor-in-Chief of MODE Magazine, Fordham University’s Fashion & Lifestyle Magazine. He will graduate from the Fordham Gabelli School of Business this spring.
- Andrew Miano ’17 graduated from UConn Law School in 2023 and he is working in the Attorney General’s office in Connecticut.
- Jalen Jones ’11 is going to be a contestant on Family Feud tonight (February 16) at 6:00 pm EST! Tune in and support a fellow Falcon!
NEW Alumni Spotlight: Provide some detail on you or a classmate, your family, career and accomplishments. Your info will be shared with students in the main hallway and on other school media outlets. Click here to submit your spotlight today! For more information contact [email protected].
IN MEMORIAM
Thomas Kennedy ’67. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Scott McEnaney ’80. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For sports news, go to XavierFalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ’11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown, CT 06457
Rich Feitel, Director, 860-346-7735 x732, [email protected]
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M ’83, P’18, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, [email protected]
January 2024 Newsletter
AROUND & ABOUT
- The Xavier High School Car Club presents the annual EJK Car Show on Saturday, May 4, 2024 in the front parking lot. Large and Small Trophy Sponsors are being solicited now. Please contact the Alumni & Development office at 860 346 7735, if you wish to support the Car Show through the purchase of a large trophy for $100, or a small trophy for $50. Cars of all classes and years are welcome at the show and eligible for prizes. The entry fee is 10 per vehicle.
- Ticket sales for the 25K Cash Raffle have begun! Click here for more information and to get your tickets today!
- Xavier is hosting its third and final Open House on Tuesday, February 13, from 6-7:30 p.m. Registration is already underway. Please share this link with family and friends that are interested in joining our community!
- During December, Xavier celebrated Founder’s Week along with the other 12 Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools. Click here to read about everything special we did on campus for the annual event.
- Matthew Ferrucci ’23 is a recent example of a Xavier alumni success story. He is currently a freshman at the United States Merchant Marine Academy. To read about how his experience at Xavier helped guide him on his journey, click here.
- Xavier is excited to celebrate Catholic School’s Week beginning on January 28!
- The 32nd Annual Black & White Auction sponsored by the Xavier Home & School Association will take place on March 23, 2024 in the Kohs Gymnasium.
ALUMNI UPDATES
EJ Adametz ’17 is living his dream as a firefighter in Waterbury. Click here to read his inspiring story.
Alex Cavaliere ’18 has been appointed to the Connecticut Section of the PGA’s Board of Directors. He is a PGA certified teaching professional at Lyman Orchards Golf Club in Middlefield, Connecticut, and he’s also the Assistant Golf Coach at Wesleyan University.
Julen Lujambio ’19 graduated from Cal Tech with a degree in Computer Science in 2023. He is currently an Associate Product Manager at Atlassian.
Jordan Leonardi ’19 was the recipient of the Ross Mayer Scholarship for Excellence in Academics from the UConn Department of Economics in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Maxwell Schroeder ’20 is a Student Video Sports Content Producer at the University of Kentucky, where he will graduate this spring, and he also recently had an internship with the College Football Playoff producing video content.
NEW Alumni Spotlight: Provide some detail on you or a classmate, your family, career and accomplishments. Your info will be shared with students in the main hallway and on other school media outlets. Click here to submit your spotlight today! For more information contact alumnidevelopment@
IN MEMORIAM
Sheila Parmelee, former Xavier school nurse. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Kieran Cahill '72. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Daniel Biesak '85. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Michael Rzegocki '69. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Fr. Michael Opalacz '68. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Timothy O'Rourke '67. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ’11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown CT 06457
Liz Whitty M ’75, Director, 860-346-7735 x732, [email protected]
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M ’83, P’18, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, [email protected]
December 2023 Newsletter
PHILANTHROPY ADVISOR
End of Year Gift Giving
Remember to maximize your charitable tax benefits by making your charitable gift to Xavier before the end of the calendar year.
You can support Xavier High in many ways that can be advantageous to you and the school. More people are creating family foundations, trusts and donor advised funds for the tax benefits they offer while at the same time helping the school. Gifts directed to financial aid or to the Xavier Annual Fund for unrestricted use go the longest way toward strengthening our ability to provide this education for more students.
IRA Required Minimum Distributions given to Xavier are another way to help students while fulfilling the requirements of the IRA.
When planning for the long term you can name Xavier in your bequest, trust, or as an IRA beneficiary to help students and lessen tax liability for your heirs.
Please think of Xavier as you make your year-end plans. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to celebrating Falcon Giving Days with you for the remainder of the month.
AROUND & ABOUT
- President Rick Misenti ’72 hosted Xavier’s first-ever Holiday Appreciation in his office for faculty and staff on Thursday, December 7. Click here to read more about the start of a new tradition.
- Justin Legere ’15 has started to make a name for himself in the world of Strongman competitions. Read about his journey here.
- Spanish teacher Marta Castro-Maguder was named Xavier’s 2023 Theodore James Ryken Award winner. Read more about Marta and the award here.
- We are proud to release the First Quarter Honor Roll. See the current Falcons making an impact in the classroom here.
- Save the date! The Artie Kohs Basketball Tournament is set for Wednesday, December 27 & Thursday, December 28! There will be a basketball alumni reunion during the tournament.
- Ticket sales for the 25K Cash Raffle Begin on Tuesday, January 2. Stay tuned for more information!
NEW Alumni Spotlight: Provide some detail on you, your family, career and accomplishments. Your info will be shared with students in the main hallway, and will be shared on other school media outlets. Click here to submit your spotlight today! For more information contact alumnidevelopment@
IN MEMORIAM
Peter Golanski, former Xavier and Mercy Coach. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ’11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown CT 06457
Liz Whitty M ’75, Director, 860-346-7735 x732, [email protected]
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M ’83, P’18, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, [email protected]
November 2023 Newsletter
PHILANTHROPY ADVISOR
We wanted to share some exciting news with you about Falcon Giving Days. This year, we're doing something a little different and rolling out Falcon Giving Month in December. Throughout the month, you'll hear from various members of our community, including faculty, staff, administrators, and Board Members, about why they believe in supporting Xavier.
Xavier has been providing a top-notch education for young men for over 60 years. Our focus on the whole person--mind, body, and spirit--has helped shape countless leaders who make a positive impact in their communities. Your support plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of each young man who walks our halls.
We believe in the power of potential and strive to provide an inspirational teaching and learning environment that prepares our students for success after graduation. Our donors exemplify the importance of using our talents in service of others, and we are proud to count them as part of our Xavier community.
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to celebrating Falcon Giving Month with you this December.
AROUND & ABOUT
- Will Levis ’18 dazzles in his NFL debut. Levis has been named the starter for the Tennessee Titans. Read about his impressive appearance against the Atlanta Falcons here. Did you know that Xavier is the ONLY high school in the country with two quarterbacks on NFL rosters.
- We have a proud tradition of service and servant leadership here at Xavier. Click here to learn more about some of the service work our Falcons are doing in the local community.
- The cross country team had another successful fall campaign. The team finished third at the New England Championships and Jack Ouellette earned All-New England honors. The squad also captured their fifth straight Class L state title in October.
- The soccer team continued its winning ways, taking home their third straight SCC Championship earlier this month.
- In late September, Xavier High School freshman Redmond Day traveled with his mother and older brother to Raleigh, North Carolina to attend the Kids on Bluegrass Program for mandolin during the International Bluegrass Music Association's (IBMA) World of Bluegrass week-long conference. Read about Redmond’s experience in the Tar Heel State here.
- This year, we’re rolling out a new series taking alumni, parents and potential families into our classrooms. Take a step into Mr. Markham’s AP Bio lab here.
- The SFX & Heritage Societies Reception is scheduled for December 7 at The Griswold Inn in Essex. For more information on those societies and the event please contact Liz Whitty.
- Save the date! The Kohs Basketball Tournament is set for Wednesday, December 27 & Thursday, December 28! There will be a basketball alumni reunion during the tournament.
- Ticket sales for the 25K Cash Raffle Begin on Tuesday, January 2. Stay tuned for more information!
ALUMNI UPDATES
Justin Legere ’15 has made waves in the world of Strongman competitions. Recently, he came in fourth-place in the 2023 America's Strongest Man event held in Orlando, Florida.
Back in May, Matt Zampini ’12 won his second Sports Emmy Award working as a Content Producer on SportsCenter!
Ryan Solomon ’21 got called up from the Quinnipiac club hockey team to join the nationally-ranked Bobcats as their third goaltender last weekend again Yale. Solomon will be with the team for the rest of the semester and he’ll be wearing number 33. Read about Ryan’s story here.
NEW Alumni Spotlight: Provide some detail on you, your family, career and accomplishments. Your info will be shared with students in the main hallway, and will be shared on other school media outlets. Click here to submit your spotlight today! For more information contact alumnidevelopment@
IN MEMORIAM
Matt Natale ’88. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Joseph McCabe ’69. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Steven Fillmore ’73, brother of Skip Fillmore ’71. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Anthony Paguni ’74. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ’11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown CT 06457
Liz Whitty M ’75, Director, 860-346-7735 x732, [email protected]
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M ’83, P’18, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, [email protected]
October 2023 Newsletter
AROUND & ABOUT
Xavier’s Second & Final Cluster Meeting
We’re excited to roll out a new initiative for the 2023-24 academic year and we want the Xavier community and their friends to join us in Middletown on Thursday, October 26 at 7:00 pm. This is an excellent opportunity to hear about the vision for our school and receive an important announcement regarding Xavier's future. There will also be a question and answer panel featuring students, a parent, faculty, staff and counselors. No question will go unanswered! I hope you can join us in person or virtually for this event.
The 2023 Alumni Golf Classic on Friday Sept. 8, raised more funds for Xavier students than ever before. A record $200,644, and still counting is earmarked for financial aid. Thank you Rich Feitel, Greg Jaskot, list all here. Check out the photo gallery.
Mark Your Calendar for Homecoming Football, Saturday, October 28. Xavier vs Jonathan Law. All alumni, SFX and Heritage Society donors, and Home and School Committee members are invited to the exclusive Annual Homecoming Reception at 11:30am, Game starts at 1pm.
The 2023 Mercy / Xavier Walk-A-Thon is underway! The pledges raised go directly to the Xavier Annual Fund for unrestricted use, which benefits those in need of tuition assistance, as well as in the areas of teaching, learning, and operations. Click here to support Xavier!
Rick Misenti ’72 was formally announced as Xavier’s new President! He becomes the first-ever alumni to lead our school!
Robotics Team Competition Calendar is as follows: CT Competition on Jan 13, 2024 at Wolcott High School; Jan 27, at Windsor High School; Feb 3, at Vernon Center Middle School; Feb 17 at the Hartford Armory, and the New England State Championship April 5 at the Big E Fairgrounds. For more information contact Steve Cunha, Director of Communications.
Xavier was named to the Advanced Placement School Honor Roll! Learn more about the distinction here.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Ryan Suprin ’20, Senior and Co-Captain of the Western New England University Soccer Team, will be graduating with a degree in Business Administration. He lives in East Longmeadow, MA.
Mike Dodenhoff ’09, a Lt. Cmdr. in the Navy, will be the lead pilot in a flyover will be the lead pilot during a flyover prior to the Navy - Air Force football game on Saturday in Annapolis! Be sure to tune into CBS at noon EST to check it out!
NEW Alumni Spotlight: Provide some detail on you, your family, career and accomplishments. Your info will be shared with students in the main hallway, and will be shared on other school media outlets. Click here to submit your spotlight today! For more information contact alumnidevelopment@
IN MEMORIUM
Barbara Hickey, mother of Jay ’76 and Charles ’82 and grandmother of Daniel ’08. To read the obituary click HERE.
Brendan Dunn ’86. Brendan was one of three Dunn brothers that attended Xavier. To read the obituary, click HERE.
John “Rusty” Larson ’68. To read the obituary, click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown CT 06457
Liz Whitty M’75, Director, 860-346-7735 x732, [email protected]
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860-346-7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M’83, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737, sberry@xavierhighschool.
August 2023 Newsletter
PHILANTHROPY ADVISOR
Don’t you find that every not-for-profit you support asks you for a gift to their annual fund? What is the big deal about annual funds? The Xavier Annual Fund for unrestricted use plays a pivotal role in sustaining and elevating the overall excellence of the institution.
Charitable support that can be used as and when an institution needs is called annual funding. Whoever came up with that name could have done a better job, but that’s what everyone calls it. The annual fund for unrestricted use is that bucket of money that can be used as the institution needs, when it needs. It’s as simple as that. It’s unrestricted. All other donations earmarked by a donor for specific things like athletics, new buildings, research, clubs and the like are restricted for that use only. Those gifts are powerful too, and gratefully accepted. But for every not-for-profit organization unrestricted gifts are the backbone of their philanthropic support.
It is hard to put a spotlight on exactly what unrestricted gifts do because they go directly into operating budgets and bolster every part of day-to-day operations. Unrestricted annual fund gifts are like the gasoline in your car. It keeps you moving forward. And, that’s why you are asked by all of your favorite charities to support their annual funds. You keep them moving forward.
AROUND & ABOUT
Xavier Hosting Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, September 21
We’re excited to roll out a new initiative for the 2023-24 academic year and we want the Xavier community and their friends to join us in Middletown on Thursday, September 21 at 7:00 pm. During this meeting, President Rick Misenti ‘72 will be providing a State of the School address. There will also be a panel discussion featuring school staff and faculty. This will be a great opportunity to ask questions and get answers from those who are directly involved in our students’ education. This meeting is for Xavier families and alumni living in Cromwell, Portland, Marlborough, Hebron, Columbia, Windham, Lebanon, Colchester, East Hampton, Middletown, Middlefield, Durham, Montville and Norwich. Join us to learn about the progress the school has made over the past year and the exciting plans we have for the future. Current families are encouraged to bring friends and families interested in joining the Xavier community. Three other cluster meetings will be held later in the fall for our families living in other cities/towns in Connecticut. For those alumni living outside the state, you can register to join us virtually HERE.
2023 Alumni Golf Classic is Friday, September 8, 2023, at Portland Golf Course. The course is full. Watch for photos online.
Class of '68 55th Reunion is on Sat, Sept 9, 2023 at 5pm at Cafe Luna, Cromwell CT. For more information contact Rusty Larson, Bill Huff, Paul Ulatowski or Ed Burke at alumnidevelopment@
Annual Grandparent Mass for all Xavier families at the start of school is Sunday, Sept 10, at 10am in the Arthur Kohs Gymnasium. Light refreshments will follow along with information for a new season. The entire Xavier High School community is invited to come back to celebrate Mass together.
Class of ’83 40th Reunion is Fri, Sept 15, and Sat, Sept 16. For more information contact Greg Jaskot at [email protected].
Mercy/Xavier Class of 1978 45th Reunion is Saturday, October 14, 6pm to 11pm, at Café Fiore in Cromwell. To get more information or to register click HERE.
Mark Your Calendar for Homecoming Football, Saturday, October 28. Xavier vs Jonathan Law. All alumni, SFX and Heritage Society donors, and Home and School Committee members are invited to the exclusive Annual Homecoming Reception at 11:30am, Game starts at 1pm.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Sam Magaziner ’12, has earned the prestigious Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) F30 Grant from the National Institutes of Health’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH/NHLBI), and a U.S. Fulbright PhD Reaearch Fellowship, where he will work with Nobel Laureate Professor, Aaron Ciechanover of the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. To read more on Sam’s work click HERE
Steve Fitzsimmons ’06, is working for the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), as a portfolio analyst and lives in Brooklyn NY, with his girlfriend Isabel. Steve sends this message to his cousin Anthony Corraccio 25, “eat your vegetables.” Always good advice from Xavier alumni.
Mark Masselli ’69, donated two copies of the book, “Peace and Health” to the Xavier Alumni Library. One in Spanish and one in English, the book follows Mark’s 50 year journey founding and leading the Community Health Center of Middletown. Mark and the author, Charles Barber with U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, who was instrumental in the early days of the health center, just concluded a national book tour.
Alumni Directory: Update your information for the Alumni Directory by contacting the Alumni & Development team at alumnidevelopment@
IN MEMORIUM
Mary Boucher, wife of former faculty Richard Boucher. To read the obituary click HERE.
John Cordone Jr., Class of ’68. To read the obituary click HERE.
John Hartke, Class of ’88. To read the obituray click HERE.
Marcin T. Sienko, father of Christian ’15, and Adrian ’20. To read the obituary click HERE.
Vincenzo Lococo, grandfather of Jon ’12 and Kristina, and Dan ’11. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and follow Xavier High School on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown CT 06457
Liz Whitty M’75, Director, 860 346 7735 x732, [email protected]
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860 346 7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M’83, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737 [email protected]
July 2023 Newsletter
PHILANTHROPY ADVISOR
Your Xavier High School philanthropy advisors have a new name. We are now the Alumni & Development team. We will offer you monthly ideas and suggestions on ways you can make tax-wise, and thoughtful investment choices in your Xavier High School. If you have specific questions be in touch directly. Our contact information in at the bottom of ENEWS.
When considering how you can influence your favorite causes there are two directions you can consider. Current use charitable gifts are donations that organizations can use right away to support their immediate needs and ongoing programs. When you make a current use gift, the organization can use the money or resources to make an impact now. These gifts are like a helping hand right when it is needed the most.
Planned gifts, on the other hand, are donations that are arranged to benefit the organization in the future. Instead of providing immediate support, these gifts are like a thoughtful investment in the organization’s long-term success. People often plan these gifts to make sure their support and their legacy continues even after they are no longer around. Long-term support is commonly made through a donor’s bequest or trust.
During these challenging times, Xavier High School needs your helping hand more than ever. Please consider making an immediate use gift to the Annual Fund by clicking HERE. Thank you.
AROUND & ABOUT
Xaverian Mission Emersion. The school is being readied for a new school year with Xaverian mission and values propositions posted through the hallways. A deeper focus on Xavier High School’s spiritual framework will be more evident this Fall. Come back for a tour of this and other improvements.
Xavier Alumni, Family & Friends Cluster Meetings. Starting in September, CT Alumni, Family & Friends will be invited to a cluster meeting of the Xavier community to hear about current news from our new President Rick Misenti, Xavier Class of ’72. Please watch for your invitation, and ask others to join you when attending these important gatherings to discuss the future of the school.
Two NFL Quarterbacks at Xavier in July. Tim Boyle ’13, and Will Levis ’18, worked with campers at the Tim Boyle Football Camp in July. For photos go to Xavier High School on Facebook.
Xavier Leadership Institute (XLI) for seniors is the week of Aug 6-9. Alumni please let us know if you would like to join in on alumni day by contacting the Alumni & Development team at 860 346 7735 x737.
2023 Alumni Golf Classic is Friday, September 8, 2023, at Portland Golf Course. See you in September.
Class of '68 55th Reunion is on Sat, Sept 9, 2023 at 5pm at Cafe Luna, Cromwell CT. For more information contact Rusty Larson, Bill Huff, Paul Ulatowski or Ed Burke at [email protected]rg.
Annual Grandparent Mass for all Xavier families at the start of school is Sunday, Sept 10, at 10am in the Arthur Kohs Gymnasium. Light refreshments will follow along with information for a new season. The entire Xavier High School community is invited to come back to celebrate Mass together.
Class of ’83 40th Reunion is Fri, Sept 15, and Sat, Sept 16. For more information contact Greg Jaskot at [email protected].
ALUMNI UPDATES
Matt Borowitz ’21 is a licensed financial representative with Northwest Mutual in Albany NY. With an anticipated college graduation of May 2025, Matt plans to pursue his graduate degree immediately afterward. While at Xavier, Matt was on the freshman lacrosse team. He participated in the Empower Leadership program and was active in National Honor Society, and the Spanish and Social Studies Honor Societies.
Alumni Directory: Update your information for the Alumni Directory by contacting the Alumni & Development team at [email protected]. If you wish to be included in ENEWS with an alumni update send your contact information, and a brief message regarding your current activities.
IN MEMORIUM
Benjamin Hallums, father of Bernie ’81. To read the click HERE.
Judith Misenti, mother of James ’81, Joseph ’83, and Jeffrey ’86, and grandmother of Dylan ’22, and Spencer ’23. To read the obituary click HERE.
Jean Genovesio, mother of Mark ’75. To read the obituary click HERE.
Nicolo “Nicholas” Saraceno, grandfather of David ’22. To read the obituary click HERE.
Joan Donohue (McGovern), mother of former Principal Brendan Donohue, and grandmother of Brendan ’19. To read the obituary click HERE.
Mark Katuzney ’67. To read the obituary click HERE.
Xavier recently learned of the passing of the following alumni:
Richard D. Doyle ’71 in 2020. To read the obituary click HERE.
Kevin Wall ’83 in 2021. To read the obituary click HERE.
Brian Cushing '83 in 2015. To read the obituary click HERE.
Colin Maroney ’83 in 2014. To read the obituary click HERE.
Kenneth Babbitt ’83, brother of Mark ’81, in 2022. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE XAVIER NEWS & CONNECTIONS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and Xavier High School on Linked In, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
CONTACT US
Xavier High School Alumni & Development 181 Randolph Road Middletown CT 06457
Liz Whitty M’75, Director, 860 346 7735 x732, [email protected]
Greg Jaskot ’00, Associate Director, 860 346 7735 x733, [email protected]
Suzanne Berry M’83, Office Manager, 860 346 7735 x737 [email protected]
June 2023 Newsletter
PHILANTHROPY ADVISOR
Did you know that your gifts of charitable support to the Xavier Annual Fund are counted on to bolster the school’s budget each year? Annual Fund gifts support every academic department, sport, club, and day-to-day operations, as well as addressing all those unexpected surprises that can occur in 60 year old buildings.
Your annual fund gifts make Xavier work for every student every day. Consider making another annual fund gift, or your first today by going on line HERE. No gift is too small, everyone’s participation is important. Together we make miracles happen. Thank you.
AROUND & ABOUT
Camden NJ Service Trip June 12-16
Ten students and two adult chaperones traveled to Camden, NJ in June. The group helped at sites in Camden, Philadelphia, and surrounding areas included Stars Adult Day Care Center, Mercy Neighborhood Center, Cathedral Soup Kitchen, Urban Promise School, Food Pantry and Thrift Store, and a local community garden. With the trip host, Romero Center Ministries, students learned about the root causes of poverty, and the challenges faced by those living in it. College students from Fordham Prep, BC High, and the University of Detroit Jesuit High School, worked alongside Xavier students. Side trips to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Spruce Street Harbor Park were enjoyed, along with Phili Cheese Steaks. The 23-24 service trips will grow to three with the addition of a new trip to North Dakota in April.
23-24 Peer Ministers Announced by Campus Ministry Office
The Peer Ministry Team has been an important part of the Xavier student community for many years. Peer ministers are servant leaders and role models, who represent Xavier High School within and outside of the school. Membership on the Peer Ministry Team implies assuming personal responsibility to carry out ministry duties in a responsible way, and to the best of each student’s ability.
Congratulations to the Xavier Class of 2024 Peer Ministers:
Trey Barbieri Noah Barnhart Johnny Bevilacqua Nate Brasky
Cormac Burke Gianni Brescio Lucas Callinan Luke Carabetta
Brendan Clow Thomas Collison Simon Cordes Pedro Delgado
Matt Devany Kiernan Driscoll Tristan Ferguson Ryan Gerardi
Ramon Guzman-Toro Euan Hall Bryston Hester Peter Kelly
Nate Kerr John Lagana Jack Larkin Nico LaRosa Will McDougall
Caiden Olmstead Gabe Panora Jacob Pasato Henry Peeler
Tommy Pullman Kevin Russ Luca Santarsiero Christian Torres
Grady Vogt John Wamaster
Tim Boyle QB/WR 1-Day Camp is July 8, for grades 5-12.
Youth Robotics Camp is July 17 – 21 for grades 5-8. Click HERE for more information. is July 8, for grades 5-12.
Youth Sports Camps are in July. Baseball, basketball, football, soccer, and strength and conditioning for grades 5-8. Click HERE for more information.
2023 Alumni Golf Classic is Friday, September 8, 2023, at Portland Golf Course. Go to xavierhighschool.org to purchase your sponsorship. See you in September.
Class of '68 55th Reunion is on Sat, Sept 9, 2023 at 5pm at Cafe Luna, Cromwell CT. For more information contact Rusty Larson, Bill Huff, Paul Ulatowski or Ed Burke at [email protected]rg.
Class of ’83 40th Reunion is Fri, Sept 15, and Sat, Sept 16. For more information contact Greg Jaskot at [email protected].
ALUMNI UPDATES
Leon Vinci, PhD, ’68, has been appointed as a member of the Virginia Western Community College Scholarship Advisory Board of the Virginia Western Educational Foundation Inc.
Big Falcon, Van Auger ’16, graduated Yale Law School while Little Falcon, Pier Bos ’19, graduated West Point, U.S. Military Academy in May. These Falcon Brothers connected again to celebrate their achievements.
John Kee Vose ’19, former President of the Xavier Car Club graduated from Salve Regina in Newport RI in May. He is entering the graduate business management program at Salve this Fall.
Kacy Lombard ’19, at The Georgia Institute of Technology is the lead developer of a new mobile app called Bedtime AI – Kids Reading. Released through AppStore, Bedtime AI allows for the creation of custom bedtime stories for kids.
Jose Miguel Lorenzo Garcia (an International Student) ‘19, from the Canary Islands, is now working in northern Spain as a naval engineer.
Matt Berry ’18, graduated early from Southern Connecticut State University in ’21, with a B.S. in Chemistry. After working for Walgreens as a Pharmacy Technician, Matt is now an Ophthalmic Technician with New Haven Retina Associates in Hamden CT.
Student & Alumni Internships: Consider hiring alumni and current students if your place of work has an opportunity for internships. This is a great way to help build a career, and get new well-trained employees. Contact [email protected] for details.
XHS Linked In & ENEWS: Remember to follow us on Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students.
Alumni Directory: Update your information for the Alumni Directory. New graduates received a young alumni directory for the last four years of graduates to maintain links as they move into their undergraduate educations, careers, and branches of service.
IN MEMORIUM
Fred Miller ’67, spouse of Katherine. To read the obituary click HERE.
Patricia Miller, mother of Laura Miller-Cozean and Ron Cozean '81, and grandfather of Robbie Cozean '20. To read the obituary click HERE.
Nina Gunn, mother of Michael Muzio '83 and Jeff Muzio '81. To read the obituary click HERE.
Norbert Bissonnette, spouse of Sonja, and father of Norbert '81 To read the obituary click HERE.
John Campbell ’77, spouse of Heidi, and father of Tom '79 To read the obituary click HERE.
Susan Jane Omicioli, spouse of Anthony '68, and grandfather of Bryan '01. To read the obituary click HERE.
Correction: Last month, Nathan Pitruzzello ’14 was omitted from the memorial for his grandmother, Santa Pitruzzello.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE NEWS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and Xavier High School on Linked In, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
May 2023 Newsletter
AROUND & ABOUT
Things We Learn in Kindergarten: to say thank you when someone helps you. Xavier says thank you to every Xavier family and Xavier charitable donor for making another graduation happen in 2023. You make every day happen, and every graduation a well-earned, joyful achievement for the graduates. Thank you for choosing Xavier. Thank you for supporting Xavier High School. We cannot do it without you.
The 57th Xavier High School Commencement was held on Saturday, May 20. 130 seniors transitioned to alumni in spectacular form with speeches from valedictorian, Matt Whitaker '23, and Salutatorian, Tyler Keithan '23. This group of new alumni mark, and exceed the 10,000th alumni milestone. To see photos check out the XHS Facebook page. Congratulations and Godspeed to Xavier's newest alumni.
Outstanding Graduate Awards were the Falcon Achievement Award to Aiden Driscoll '23, and the Xavier Loyalty and Service Award to Brendan Peary '23
Seventeen New Legacy Families at Xavier High. At commencement seventeen new graduates entered the ranks of Legacy, including two 3rd generation XHS Legacy families. Welcome to all new Xavier Legacies:
Maximus Augeri '23 and James Augeri '76
Mitchell Carella ’23 and Richard Carella ‘84
William Epright ’23 and Matthew Epright ‘90
Jeffrey Fortuna ’23 and Michael Fortuna ‘75
Aedan Frazer ’23 and Jesse Frazer ‘92
Jack Gouin ’23 and Brian Gouin ‘84
Tyler Keithan ’23 and Christopher Keithan ’99, and grandfathers, Richard Keithan ’69 and Patrick Ahlquist
Jack Lefebvre ’23 and grandfather Mark Lefevbre ‘68
Spencer Misenti ’23 and Jeffrey Misenti ‘86
Patrick Mitchill ’23 and Neil Mitchill ‘93
John Palo ’23 and John Palo ‘89
Jake Puorro ’23 and Derek Puorro ‘91
Alex Ruimerman ’23 and Jason Ruimerman ‘90
Vincent Salamone ’23 and Glenn Salamone ‘88
Richard Smith ’23 and Richard Smith ‘81
Henry Stearns ’23 and Eric Stearns ‘88
Colin Wallace ’23 and Brian Wallace ‘86
Silver Anniversaries for Faculty and Staff. Lisa Keereweer, Bill Braychak and Andrew Gargano were recognized for twenty-five years of service to Xavier during graduation 2023. Xavier is not Xavier without them.
Donna Jaskot Retires and is Honored at Graduation. After 36 years of service, three alumni sons, and one alumni husband and retired athletic director, Donna Jaskot is calling it a day, or 13,140 days to be exact. On June 15, Donna starts a new journey. Touchdown Donna! Thank you for everything.
Boston Alumni Reception is June 1, 6-8pm at MARCUM, 53 State St, 17th Fl. Please rsvp to [email protected].
2nd Annual Michael P. Doyle Memorial Golf Classic is June 23, 2023 at Tunxis Country Club in Farmington. For more information go to MPD.
Youth Robotics Camp is July 17 – 21 for grades 5-8. Click HERE for more information.
Youth Sports Camps are in July. Baseball, basketball, football, soccer, volleyball and strength training for grades 5-8. Click HERE for more information.
2023 Alumni Golf Classic is Friday, September 8, 2023, Portland Golf Course. Go to xavierhighschool.org to purchase your sponsorship. See you in September.
Class of '68 55th Reunion will be held on Sat, Sept 9, 2023 at 5pm at Cafe Luna, Cromwell CT. For more information contact Rusty Larson, Bill Huff, Paul Ulatowski or Ed Burke at [email protected].
ALUMNI UPDATES
Middletown Police Lt. Paul Maturo ’81, retires after 33 years of service. Father of Nicholas ’14, and brother of Michael ’79 and Alfred ’86.
Jeffrey '11 and Kayla Brymer, welcomed a baby girl to the Brymer family in May.
Brian Day ’14, is Director Promotions / Artist Development at Curb Records in Nashville.
Student & Alumni Internships: Consider hiring alumni or current students if your place of work has an opportunity for internships. This is a great way to help build a career, and get new well-trained employees. Contact [email protected] for details.
XHS Linked In & ENEWS: Remember to follow us on Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students.
Alumni Directory: Update your information for the Alumni Directory. New graduates received a young alumni directory for the last four years graduates to maintain links as they move into their undergraduate educations, careers, and branches of service.
SPRING SPORTS & PRO UPDATES
Xavier Outdoor Track & Field won the SCC Championship in May. Sam Forte ’24 took Most Outstanding Performer.
Will Levis ’18, NFL, Tennessee Titans QB
Elijah Pemberton ’15, NBA GLEAGUE, Santa Cruz Warriors G
Tim Boyle ’13, NFL, NY Jets QB
Jovan Santos-Knox ’12, CFL, Ottowa Redbacks LB
Ryan Preece ’09, NASCAR, Driver Cup Series
For more XHS sports news & schedules, go to xavierfalcons.com.
IN MEMORIUM
John Campbell ’77, brother of Tom ’79. To read the obituary click HERE.
William O'Neill '68. To read the obituary click HERE.
Santa Pitruzzello, mother of William '78, Stephen '81, and Gregory '82. To read the obituary click HERE.
Mary Catherine (Tomassi) DeMonte, mother of Debbie Miller, Lino's Cafe staffer. To read the obituary click HERE.
Annette Grockowski, mother of Gary '72. To read the obituary click HERE.
Roger Morin '78, brother of Richard '86, and uncle of Eric '16 and Daniel '18. To read the obituary click HERE.
Xavier recently learned of the passing of John Flynn '68 in 2011, and Douglas Sullivan '68 in 2018, and Thomas Hampp '68 in 2022.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
MORE NEWS
Go to xavierhighschool.org, and Xavier High School on Linked In, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Sports news, go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
April 2023 Newsletter
AROUND & ABOUT
Youth Robotics Camp is July 17 – 21 for grades 5-8. Click HERE for more information.
Youth Sports Camps is in July. Baseball, basketball, football, soccer, volleyball and strength training for grades 5-8. Click HERE for more information
Xavier Heritage Society click HERE, recognizes donors who make, or pledge, gifts in perpetuity to support Xavier students. Gifts like endowed funds, bequests, life insurance policies, and many others create a support network that lasts forever. All who express this deep commitment are added to the Heritage Society Honor Roll of Donors whenever they make these plans. Please let the advancement team know if you have named Xavier in your family’s estate planning.
Xavier Mathletes Varsity came in 1st in the CT State Math Meet on April 4. Varsity high scorer, winning a $500 award, was Sotirios Paul ’23. Sophomores Ben Curiel ’25, and Petros Paul tied for 1st Place Underclassmen. Josh Ray ’25 tied for 2nd Place Underclassmen. Junior Varsity Mathletes also came in 1st. Outstanding performers were Paul ‘25, Raj ‘25, and Zander Bos ’25, and Patrick Manning ‘26.
Eric J. Kalber Car Show is Saturday, May 6 from 10am to 2pm at Xavier High School. Rain date is Sunday, May 7. All vehicle classes are welcome. All proceeds go to the Eric J. Kalber Scholarship Fund. Food, Fun and Trophies. $10. car entry fee, $1. spectator fee.
2nd Annual Michael P. Doyle Memorial Golf Classic is June 23, 2023 at the Tunxis Country Club in Farmington. For more information go to MPD.
2023 Alumni Golf Classic is Friday, September 8, 2023, Portland Golf Course lead sponsorship solicitations being soon. See you in September.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Xavier High Seminarians: Anthony Caruso ’19, 3rd Philosophy, is serving at Church of the Resurrection, Wallingford. Mitchell Kendrioski ’12, Seminarian, 1st Theology, serving at Saint John Bosco Parish, Branford.
Boston Alumni Reception: Thursday, June 1, 2023, 6-8pm at MARCUM Accountants Advisors, 53 State Street, 17th Fl. Hosts Douglas and Diane Farrington P'05 and '07, and Kevin Farrington '07.
Class of '68 55th Reunion is set for Sat, Sept, 9, at Cafe Luna in Cromwell. Mark your calendar. Rusty Larson and Paul Ulatowski will be leading the committee to gather the troops in the Fall of 2023. For more information contact [email protected].
Student & Alumni Internships: Consider hiring alumni and current students if your place of work has an opportunity for internships. This is a great way to help build a career, and get new well-trained employees. Contact [email protected] for details.
XHS Linked In & ENEWS: Remember to follow us on Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter, send it to them.
IN MEMORIUM
Brother John F. Kerr C.F.X., Xavier Principal from 1967 through 1975. To read the obituary click HERE.
Stacia Bogdan, mother of Frank ’67. To read the obituary click HERE.
Mary Lou Dixon, predeceased by her son Jon ’92, and mother of David ’89 and Chris ‘95. To read the obituary click HERE.
George C. Kalber, father of Robert ’74, and Stephen ’78. Father-in-law of Stephen Johnson ’78, and grandfather of David Johnson ’06. George was predeceased by his grandson, Eric Kalber ’04 for whom the Annual EJK Car Show is named. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
REMINDERS
On-Line Donors: If you make charitable gifts on-line, you will see a new, faster tax receipting system. Your thank you reply email will now include all the tax information you need for annual reporting to the IRS, eliminating the need for mailing hard copy receipts. On-line purchases such as golf sponsorships will continue to receive hard copy receipts outlining the allowable IRS tax credits.
For More News: Go to xavierhighschool.org, and Xavier High School on Linked In, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are looking for sports news go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
March 2023 Newsletter
IT'S TAX TIME AGAIN
AROUND & ABOUT
31st Annual Black and White Auction: Saturday, March 25 at 6pm. For tickets click HERE.
25K CASH RAFFLE time is running out: Go to: TICKET.
Buy your ticket before 12noon, April 2, 2023. All ticket numbers will be issued by that afternoon for the Monday April 3, 11am drawing. Check your spam and junk mail if you do not see the email in your inbox by that time. Any tickets purchased after April 2, 12noon, will not be issued a ticket number. Those buyers will be contacted by the Advancement Office of a refund. GOOD LUCK.
Student Spring Art Show & Concert: Tuesday, April 25 at 7pm, in the gym and front foyer. Come back. It's a great performance.
Xavier Musicians submit for the National Jazz Festival. To see their video go to (https://vimeo.com/802119141/ad2f081820).
The 16th Annual Eric J. Kalber Car Show is scheduled for Saturday, May 6 from 10am to 2pm at Xavier High School. The rain date is Sunday, May 7. All vehicle classes are welcome. All proceeds go to the Eric J. Kalber Scholarship Fund. Food, Fun and Trophies. $10. car entry fee, $1. per person spectator fee.
The Second Annual Michael P. Doyle Memorial Golf Classic is June 23, 2023 at the Tunxis Country Club in Farmington. For more information go to MPD.
Student Phonathon: 2023 Student Phonathon forms continue to be mailed. Thank you to all who have responded, and to those who have yet to receive their request.
XHS Needs Spanish & French Teachers: FT and PT positions considered. Ideal candidates have passion for working with adolescent boys in a Catholic, college-prep setting; can support and uphold the Catholic mission, and a Xaverian educational community; posseses a bachelor's or preferrably advanced degree in Spanish and/or French; has high school teaching experience with superior interpersonal skills; is adept at using technology in a learning setting; and is open to a role in the community outside the classroom. Send the following to Mr. Brendan Donahue, Principal, [email protected]: resume, cover letter, statement of educational philosophy, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
Knights of Columbus Silver City Council #2 offers a scholarship for freshman year for students entering a Catholic high school. The award is not renewable. Applicant eligibility rules are: must be a practicing Catholic, and resident of Meriden CT, or a practicing Catholic who is a child or grandchild of a member in good standing of Council #2, or the Father McGivney Assembly #102 regardless of the applicant's town of residence. Inquiries should be made to: Patrick J. McMahon '71, at [email protected]. Applications must be postmarked by May 1, 2023.
2023 Alumni Golf Classic, Friday, September 8, 2023, Portland Golf Course sponsorship solicitations will being soon. See you in September.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Boston Alumni Reception: Thursday, June 1, 2023, 6-8pm at MARCUM Accountants Advisors, 53 State Street, 17th Fl. Hosts Douglas and Diane Farrington P'05 and '07, and Kevin Farrington '07.
NYC Visits & Alumni Get Together: April 27 & 28. Contact Greg Jaskot at [email protected].
Student & Alumni Internships: Consider alumni and current students if your place of work has an opportunity for internships. This is a great way to help build a career, and get new well-trained employees. Contact [email protected] for details.
XHS Linked In & ENEWS: Remember to follow us on Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter, send it to them.
IN MEMORIUM
Joanann Gondek, Mother of Justin Brown '23. To read the obituary click HERE.
Kari Vogt, Mother of Grady Vogt '24. To read the obituary click HERE.
David Bartlett, Class of '73. Brother of Daniel '79, and Edward '71. To read the obituary click HERE.
Daniel Clo Bartlett, Class of '79. Brother of David '73 and Edward '71. To read the obituary click HERE.
Shaun Parmelee Sr., Former Class of '89. Brother of Craig '85, and James '84. Son of Craig and Sheila, XHS School Nurse. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently and those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
REMINDERS
Stay in Touch: Use [email protected] to update contact information.
For More News: Go to xavierhighschool.org, and Xavier High School on Linked In, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are looking for sports news go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
February 2023 Newsletter
WELCOME CLASS OF 2023
AROUND & ABOUT
Falcon Phonathon Appreciation. Thank you to all alumni who are responding to the calls and messages from students reaching out during this year's Falcon Phonathon. Alumni gifts are the life-blood of the institution. Please take the call when you see the Xavier High School ID. Student callers are also making career connections as they speak with alumni. Thank you all for your support of the students through your charitable gifts, and your professional expertise.
31st Annual Black and White Auction - IN PERSON AGAIN - March 25 at 6pm.
25K CASH RAFFLE tickets are dwindling. Gets yours before they are gone. Drawing for 1 - winner takes all - ticket on April 3. Go to: TICKET.
Class of 2027 incoming students are getting their Congratulations Xavier Class of 2027 lawn signs now. Watch for them in your neighborhood.
The 16th Annual Eric J. Kalber Car Show is scheduled for Saturday, May 6 from 10am to 2pm at Xavier High School. The rain date is Sunday, May 7. All vehicle classes are welcome. All proceeds go to the Eric J. Kalber Scholarship Fund. Food, Fun and Trophies. $10. car entry fee, $1. per person spectator fee.
The Second Annual Michael P. Doyle Memorial Golf Classic is June 23, 2023 at the Tunxis Country Club in Farmington. For more information go to MPD.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Ashton Murphy '22, was on the Fall Dean's List at RIT Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences.
Student & Alumni Internships. Remember other alumni and current students if your place of work has an opportunity for internships. This is a great way to help build a career, and get new well-trained employees. Contact [email protected] for details.
XHS Linked In & ENEWS: Remember to follow us on Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter, send it to them.
The Alumni, Faculty & Staff Library: A signed copy of your work has a reservation in the Alumni, Faculty and Staff Library.
Dorothy O'Rourke, Mother of Dennis '67, and Joseph '71. To read the obituary click HERE.
Nicholas J. Murano Jr. Former Class of '05. Brother of Kevin '00. To read the obituary click HERE.
Eugene C. Riotte, Father of Eugene '80. To read the obituary click HERE.
Elba I. Pepitone, Mother of Joseph Jr. '83, and Denise, Mercy '76 and Tom Sweeney '74, and Grandmother of Joseph '21 and Sean Sweeney '08. To read the obituary click HERE.
Richard L. Zawisa, Class of '83. Brother of James '81, and uncle of Brendan '21, and Daniel '26. To read the obituary click HERE.
Kevin Shortelle, Class of '73. To read the obituary click HERE.
Cornelius "Connie" Millane, Father of Neal '72 and Michael '74. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently or those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers. The full list of alumni faculty and staff memorials is on the webpage at MEMORIALS.
REMINDERS
Stay in Touch: Use [email protected] to update contact information.
For More News: Go to xavierhighschool.org, and Xavier High School on Linked In, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are looking for sports news go to xavierfalcons.com.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father, We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School. Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son. Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others. Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school. May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people. We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen Saint Francis Xavier pray for us. - Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org. |
January 2023 Newsletter
A Word from Alumni Association President, Brian Farrell, '86
AROUND & ABOUT
Bar Baja Tequila & Taqueria, Dining for Dollars IS BACK, at 945 B Cromwell Avenue, Rocky Hill, 860 372 4040. Owner Fran DelMastro, Class of '79, is giving a 10% rebate to Xavier every time you dine. Mention Dining for Dollars. Manga with intention!
Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 Works for You and Xavier. Under the new law, if you are 70.5 or older you can transfer funds to Xavier and pay no income taxes. The transfer generates neither taxable income, nor a tax deduction. You benefit even if you do not itemize. Since the gift does not count as income, it can reduce your annual income level, which could lower your income taxes. Note that under the Secure Act 2.0, the age at which you are required to make required minimum distributions (RMDs) was raised to 73 for individuals born between 1951 and 1959, and age 75 for those born in 1960 or later. Always Always Always speak to your tax advisor first.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Keep these dates in mind as you plan for 2023.
January 3 - April 3, 11am, the 25K CASH RAFFLE tickets are being sold. Go to xavierhighschool.org and click the link for more details, and to purchase tickets. Last year a current family won. The prior year a faculty / alumni family won. Only 800 tickets will be sold.
Falcon Phonathon in February: student callers will be engaging alumni in phone calls to expand Falcon Giving Day support from all graduates. Please answer the call when your phone rings in February. You can support students in any way you feel is most important. Show current students the strength of the Falcon Brotherhood.
March 25, the 31st Annual Black & White Auction hosted by the Xavier Home and School Association. Lead by Sue Houle, P '23 & P '19, Sue Devany, P ' 24, and Tina Strell, P '24, the auction is LIVE IN PERSON, and jam packed with fun, and loads of exciting auction items for you, family, and friends. Watch for more information on the XHS website.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Alumni Legal Internship Opportunity: Barry, Barall, Taylor & Levesque, LLC in Manchester CT is looking for Xavier alumni who have graduated from college and may have an interest in pursuing a career in law or going to law school, for the position of Legal Assistant. The Legal Assistant will assist attorneys with filing, timekeeping, calendaring of deadlines, and the editing and preparation of filings in the Connecticut Superior and Appellate Courts. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are a must. This job will be an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of legal practice in Connecticut under some of the state's premier attorneys in Criminal, Appellate, and Ethics Law. Please direct resumes to Mike Massaro '13 at [email protected].
Call for Internships: If your business can benefit from the help of another Xavier Alumnus through paid or unpaid internships please contact us. Internships are a perfect way for recent college grads or current college students to learn about a business or industry first hand. If you wish us to post an opportunity be in touch at [email protected].
The Alumni Library received a signed copy of Losing Tim, How Our Health & Education Systems Failed My Son With Schizophrenia, by Paul Gionfriddo, Class of '71, and former Mayor of Middletown. A powerful account of his family's experience with illness.
XHS Linked In & ENEWS: Remember to follow us on Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter, send it to them.
The Alumni, Faculty & Staff Library would be a great place to house a copy of your publication. If you are an author send us a copy of your book - a signed copy would be even better. We will proudly showcase it in our library.
Stanley W. Wyskiel, Father of Alexander, Class of '16. To read the obituary click HERE.
Marianne Fitzgerald, Mother of Ryan, Class of '05, and Robert, Class of '09. To read the obituary click HERE.
Richard Harmon, Father of Bradley, Class of '76. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently or those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers.
REMINDERS
Stay in Touch: Thank you alumni, parents, family and neighbors for sending postal address and email updates. Use [email protected] to update contact information. And, share jobs, graduations, accomplishments, weddings, births, retirements, and certainly if there are deaths in our Xavier community please let us know.
For More News: Go to xavierhighschool.org, and Xavier High School on Linked In, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are looking for sports news go to xavierfalcons.com. E-Newsletters are archived on the website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving tab.
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
December 2022 Newsletter
AROUND & ABOUT
Heritage Society
Thank You to our Heritage Society members who made lifetime gifts in perpetuity such as endowed funds, insurance policies, and estate and trust bequests that protect the Xavier mission to educate young men in service to others so that each student is prepared to respond to the Christian call of the school motto, “Be A Man, A Man Like Christ.”
The newest member of the Heritage Society is Michael Millane '74, with the naming of Xavier in his estate plans. If you have included Xavier High School in any planned gift please inform us in order that we add your name to the exclusive Xavier Heritage Society Donor Honor Roll.
To see the full Heritage Society Honor Roll click HERE. To learn how you too can become a part of this transformational group of supporters contact the advancement team at 860 346 7735, or at [email protected].
Job Posting - FT Chemistry Teacher
Xavier High School is seeking applicants for a FT chemistry teaching position for the remainder of the 2022-2023 school year. The ideal candidate will:
demonstrate a passion for working with adolescent boys in a Catholic, college-prep setting; support and uphold the mission of a Catholic and Xaverian educational community; possess at least a bachelor’s degree (a master’s degree is preferred) in chemistry or a related field; have experience teaching in a high school setting; have superior interpersonal skills; be able to incorporate technology into a BYOD learning environment; be open to taking a role in the community outside of the classroom.
Interested candidates should send the following: resume, cover letter, statement of educational philosophy, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation to Mr. Brendan Donohue, Principal, [email protected].
Community Survey Results
Many of you responded to the survey included in the Fall Annual Appeal. Thank you for your generous gifts again this year, and thank you for the input on when, how, and why we communicate with you. Some trends were: the school mission and the top tier education are highly important to parents and grandparents, be they current or former parents. Many former parents noted the success their sons have had in work and in family life due to the values instilled by Xavier. Alumni contributors noted the lifelong friendships and sense of brotherhood they have from their time at Xavier. The amount of communications is agreeable with most recipients being that they include both USPS mail and online appeals and news communications. These are just a few take-aways from the survey. If you have any that you would like to add contact Liz Whitty at 860 346 7735 x732 or [email protected].
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Keep these dates in mind as you plan for 2023.
January 3 - April 3, 11am, the 25K CASH RAFFLE tickets are being sold. Go to xavierhighschool.org and click the link for more details, and to purchase tickets. Remember someone is going to win it all. Last year a current family won. The prior year a faculty / alumni family won. Only 800 tickets will be sold.
March 25, 31st Annual Black & White Auction hosted by the Xavier Home and School Association. Lead by Sue Houle, P '23, P '19, the auction is IN PERSON, and jam packed with fun, and loads of exciting auction items for you, family, and friends. Join us on March 25.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Mike Kohs '84, Recipient of the 2022 Ryken Award, a recognition of a lifetime of commitment to building young men who live the school motto: "Be a Man. A Man like Christ." Chosen by the adult members of faculty and staff this is a profound statement of a career dedicated to the benefit of Xavier students, and to keeping the Xaverian values in partnership with the entire school community.
Junior Career Night is in January 17. Alumni from various industries will be sharing their experience with the Juniors. Volunteers from law enforcement, public administration, business leadership, IT, finance, investments and accounting, health services, the law, architecture, construction and the trades will be represented. Thank you Alumni.
All Alumni. Remember to follow us on Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter, send it to them.
The Alumni, Faculty & Staff Library would be a great place to house a copy of your publication. If you are an author send us a copy of your book - a signed copy would be even better. We will proudly showcase it in our library.
IN MEMORIUM
Matthew Sinclair, Class of '86, To read the obituary click HERE.
Sebastiana Aresco, Mother to Carmelo '78, and John '88. Grandmother to Louis Aresco, and Christopher '07 and Daniel '08 Carmelo. To read the obituary click HERE.
Vincent A. Marella, Grandfather of Christopher '01 and Matthew '04 Haywood. To read the obituary click HERE.
Craig Anderson, Class of '72. To read the obituary click HERE.
Evelyn Konefal, Mother of Andrew '69. To read the obituary click HERE.
Christopher Paul Del Sole, Class of '99. Son of Stephen '70. To read the obituary click HERE.
Stanley L. Radziewicz, Father of Steven '80, Mark '82, Pete '85, and Jim '89. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently or those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers.
REMINDERS
Stay in Touch: Thank you alumni, parents, family and neighbors for sending postal address and email updates. Use [email protected] to update contact information. And, share jobs, graduations, accomplishments, weddings, births, retirements, and certainly if there are deaths in our Xavier community please let us know.
For General Information and News: Go to xavierhighschool.org and Xavier High School on Facebook. If you are looking for sports news, please go to our athletic website, xavierfalcons.com. E-Newsletters are archived on the website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving tab.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER - read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
November 2022 Newsletter
A HOLIDAY MESSAGE FROM THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
May you have the gift of faith, the blessing of hope,
and the peace of His love at Christmas and always.
AROUND & ABOUT
The Alumni, Faculty & Staff Library would be a great place to house a copy of your publication. If you are an author send us a copy of your book - a signed copy would be even better. We will proudly showcase it in our library.
XHS and US Coast Guard Academy Alumni Matt Hurtt '08, Brett Godiksen '08 and Nick Cosenza '08 gathered recently at their Class of '12 USCGA Reunion. Hurtt is now a Coast Guard lawyer, Godkinsen is a senior associate at PWC, and Cosenza is on the sea as a Coast Guard pilot. Congratulations gentlemen.
Paul Fields '71 recently gifted the school an original pen and ink drawing of the campus made by Jack Andrews '71 created for their yearbook's inside cover. It hangs in the advancement office for all to see. Thank you Paul. Thank you Jack.
The Cherish the Children Foundation, and the Selfless Foundation each opened a new endowed fund for student tuition support this past month. Generous gifts like these are held in perpetuity for the benefit of students now and in the years to come. Opened respectively by the parents of an alumnus, and an alumnus - Class of '98, they show the value of a Xavier education. If you would like to learn how to create a living legacy like this please contact the advancement team.
Xavier Sports Highlights: The soccer team was runner-up in the CT Class L State Championship. The first team to get back to the state championships in 27 years according to Coach, Brian Fitzgerald ’99.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Winter is close at hand: Keep these dates in mind as you plan for 2023.
December 2, Friday is Falcon Giving Day 2022, our Giving Tuesday for student financial aid support. Please watch your email and give as generously as you are able.
December 2, Friday: 2nd Annual Falcon Giving Day for Student Financial Aid (online event).
December 13, Christmas Concert, Art Show & Mini Open House, 7pm. Tell your friends. Tell your neighbors. Bring the kids. There is no better place for an extraordinary education XHS!
December 27, Tuesday, & 28, Wednesday: Arthur M. Kohs Christmas Basketball Tournament & Basketball Reunion.
January 3, $25,000 CASH RAFFLE sales will start. 1 Winner. 100. per ticket. 800 tickets sold. Watch your email for details. Early sales cannot be made.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Tim Boyle '13, has been signed as an active player by the Chicago Bears – De Bears! Way to Go Tim!
Basketball Alumni: Come back to the Artie Kohs Tournament on Dec. 27 and 28 for an informal reunion for all players. Get reconnected and enjoy the play.
Junior Career Night is January 17. Alumni from various industries are called to share their experience with the Juniors. Contact the advancement team if you feel you can help.
All Alumni: Remember to follow us Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter, send it to them.
And, share jobs, graduations, accomplishments, weddings, births, retirements, and certainly if there are deaths in our Xavier community please let us know.
IN MEMORIUM
Jennie Melien, mother of Peter '69, Jeffrey '71, and grandmother of Andrew '03 To read the obituary click HERE.
Deborah Sokol, mother of Christopher '19. To read the obituary click HERE.
Richard LaBella, husband of former faculty member Patricia LaBella. To read the obituary click HERE.
Christopher Mefferd, Class of '88. To read the obituary click HERE.
Anthony "Tony" Martocci, Class of '02, brother of Joseph '01 and Mark '05. To read the obituary click HERE.
Joshua Cunningham, Class of '09. To read the obituary click HERE.
John Wojcicki Sr, father of John Jr '75, and grandfather of Matthew '05 and John Paul Morello '13, and Alex Ushchak '23. To read the obituary click HERE.
Richard Hansen III, Class of '70. To read the obituary click HERE.
Robert Rooney, father of David '17. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently or those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers.
REMINDERS
Stay in Touch: Thank you alumni, parents, family and neighbors for sending postal address and email updates. Use [email protected] to update contact information.
For General Information and News: Go to xavierhighschool.org and Xavier High School on Facebook. If you are looking for sports news, please go to our athletic website, xavierfalcons.com. E-Newsletters are archived on the website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving tab.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER
- read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
October 2022 Newsletter
A WORD FROM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT, BRIAN FARRELL '86
The close of October ends the first marking period at Xavier, while I always loved the beginning of the school year, I do not recall rejoicing about the close of a marking period. That said, there is much to rejoice, the Walk-A-Thon was a huge success, and 91% of students are engaging in their Xavier experience beyond the classroom. Many students rejoice in the simple fact that they are able to attend Xavier. Xavier awarded $1.82 million dollars in financial aid and scholarships last year. Your Alumni Association Scholarships, with your support, contributed to our future fellow alumni in a meaningful way. Here is what they say:
“I really cannot thank you enough for this wonderful opportunity. I plan to really excel and make the most of the opportunities Xavier has to offer. Once again, thank you for the gift and I plan on making the most of it." Class of 2025
“I want to thank you for your continued support of Xavier High School and your support for students like myself. I hope to make you proud too!” Class of 2024
“I am fortunate to be able to attend Xavier this year because it is the right school where I can get involved in and out of the classroom. One of my favorite things about Xavier is that it gives me the opportunity to grow as a man. Xavier will also better prepare me for college. Without you my future at Xavier would not be possible.” Class of 2024
Your engagement makes a difference. Become an active member of the Xavier Alumni Association, support our students, support each other. Look for future socials and Career Night coming in the next few months, join us, you are already invited.
AROUND & ABOUT
2022 Walkathon brought in $119,000 for Xavier, and $131,000 for Mercy on October 21. It is the largest student fundraiser of the year. Students engaged families and friends in support of their schools and of each other. These charitable gifts lift each student and each school department.
Home and School Association President, Sue Houle, P '19, '22, '23, announced that members of the group will now be acting as Xavier Ambassadors. You will see them at events, receptions, and others community activities throughout school extracurricular life. The Xavier Ambassadors will be active as way-finders, greeters and spokespeople for the entire school community.
Open House on October 23, saw record numbers of families and prospective students getting to know Xavier and the Xavier family. It was an all hands on deck event with student tour guides, faculty and staff representing every aspect of academic, athletics, clubs and school life. The advancement office hosted a Mercy and Xavier Legacy Family reception. Home and School prepared a festive Fall feast in the dining hall hosted by Xavier Ambassadors who shared their own Xavier stories with prospective families.
Rich and Lauralane Feitel, were honored with the 2021 - 2022 Volunteers of the Year Award by the Association of Catholic Admissions and Advancement Professionals at College of the Holy Cross in Worcester on October 15. The Feitels' have supported the students, alumni and families of Xavier since Rich became a faculty member in the 1960's. The rest is history.
Over $300,000 Planned Gift from the Margaret Patricia Eagan Trust, for the Eagan Endowed Scholarship for a student or students from Saint Joseph Church, Chester, or Parishes within the the Old Saybrook Deanery of the Diocese of Norwich.
Xavier Sports News: Tristan Schemmerling '23, and Zach Potter '23 represented Xavier and Hartford's Riverfront Recapture at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston. Alex Ushchak '23 took 1st Place in the Southern Connecticut Cross Country Championship.
More Wisdom from Brother James M. Kelly C.F.X., former Principal, Xavier High School, "Adolescents have an uncanny knack for backing adults into corners. Try as we might, it is rather difficult to be reasonable from a corner. If you find at times (maybe more times than you'd like), there is a dichotomy between your theory and your practice when you are dealing with your son, I wouldn't worry too much about it. Look upon these occasions as a chance to practice humility. Above all, keep in mind the words of St. Francis de Sales: 'Be patient with all things, but first of all with yourself'".
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Fall is here. Keep these dates in mind as you plan for the end of the year.
November 27, Sunday: Thanksgiving Family Mass - all faith traditions are invited to celebrate mass together during this uniquely American season.
December 1, Thursday: Saint Francis Xavier Society & Heritage Society Donor Reception at Griswold Inn, Essex. Invitations are out.
December 2, Friday: 2nd Annual Falcon Giving Day for Student Financial Aid (online event)
December 27, Tuesday, & 28, Wednesday: Arthur M. Kohs Christmas Basketball Tournament and basketball player reunion.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Share Your News: jobs, graduations, accomplishments, weddings, births, retirements, and certainly if there are deaths in our Xavier community please let us know.
Alumni: Remember to follow us Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter, send it to them.
IN MEMORIUM
Timothy William Biskupiak, Class of '84. To read the obituary click HERE.
Carolyn Ann Garofoli, mother of Michael '91 and David '84, and Mercy High faculty. To read the obituary click HERE.
Joan Ryan, mother of Pat Ryan Boothroyd, Mercy '72 and Ed Boothroyd '72, and grandmother of Ryan '00 and Jason '02. To read the obituary click HERE.
John Paardenkooper Sr., father of John '86, and Erana, Jayn and Jackie of Mercy. To read the obituary click HERE.
David M. Cekala, Class of '67. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently or those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families and friends in your prayers.
ALUMNI & COMMUNITY REMINDERS
Stay in Touch: Thank you alumni, parents, family and neighbors for sending postal address and email updates. Use [email protected] to update contact information.
For general information and news on the school go to xavierhighschool.org and Xavier High School on Facebook. If you are looking for sports news, please go to our athletic website, xavierfalcons.com. E-Newsletters are archived on the website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving tab.
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER
- read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
September 2022 Newsletter
A MESSAGE FROM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT, BRIAN FARRELL '86
The beginning of the school year is always exciting for students and the entire Xavier Community. This year the class of 2026 begins their journey. The class begins with 155 students and $400,000 in tuition assistance. It is because of your generosity that the tuition assistance is possible to elevate the lives of our future alumni as they learn how to dedicate their talents to the world as the big picture expands around them.
We are all part of a bigger picture. Our own Xavier High School is part of a larger Xaverian brotherhood with 13 schools and 12,000 students with more than 1,000 faculty and staff to support them.
Expand your own picture and become an active member of our Alumni Association. We will keep you informed so you may participate in social events and philanthropic activity. Should you need anything, contact us. You are already invited to participate.
Congratulations to the Golf Committee for their excellent work in creating a very successful Alumni Golf event.
AROUND & ABOUT
Record Results at the 2022 Xavier Alumni Golf Classic
The 40th Annual XAGC was another huge success. One hundred-forty alumni and friends of Xavier teed off on a beautiful September morning at Portland Golf Course and enjoyed a wonderful day of reminiscing with old and new friends both on the course and at dinner that evening.
It was also a day of record results! The event raised a net total of $145,000, surpassing last year’s record total by more than $20,000. All of those funds will be used to provide tuition assistance to students with need and merit. Special thanks to all of our sponsors for their support of this event. Their contributions alone totaled more than $135,000!
The other record set was by the foursome of Geoff DeVille ’80, John Mooz ’81, Geoffrey DeVille ’12, and Ryan DeVille ‘14 who finished the day at 17 under par in the scramble format. Congratulations to them for their outstanding performance. Other winners that day included Nate Gonzalez ‘14 and Ryan Fitzgerald ‘05 who won the longest drive contests and Dan Cizauskas and Tom Coughlin ‘09 who won the closest-to-pin contests. Gerry Malloy won the sudden death putting contest.
Congratulations also to the XAGC Committee of Dave Archer ’71, Will Biestek ’09, Dan DeConti ’01, Geoff DeVille ‘80, Chris Dibble ’12, Bryan Feitel ’86, Rich Feitel, Greg Jaskot ’00, CJ Kowaleski ’10, Sandy Larson ’75, Bob Lawson ’78, Alan Schumann ’78, Gary Szewczyk ’77, Mike Tommasi ’67 and Liz Whitty for their efforts to make the event such a successful one.
The Committee is pleased to announce that through designated memorial sponsorships from friends and family totaling more than $25,000, Xavier High School has established the Ronald Raffele Endowed Scholarship Fund. Thank you to the Gilbert and Lynch Families for securing the Memorial Sponsorship for Ron and to everyone who made a contribution in memory of Ron that has enabled the school to establish this fund. A member of the Class of 1970, Ron was a special friend to Xavier High School and a beloved member of the Committee for many years.
If you would like to join the Xavier Alumni Golf Classic Committee for the 2023 event, please contact Greg Jaskot at [email protected] or call the Xavier Advancement Office 860-346-7735. Mark your Calendar - the 41st Annual Xavier Alumni Golf Classic will be held on Friday, September 8, 2023.
Registration for the Fall Open House for New Students on Sunday, Oct. 23 is open. This is one of the biggest days of the year for Xavier. Please share this LINK with any families or friends that may be interested in attending Xavier. We greatly appreciate your help! If you have any questions, please email Director of Enrollment Management Mr. Matthew McCaffrey, [email protected].
Xavier High School Spanish Teacher Needed
Xavier seeks applicants for a full or part time Spanish teaching position. The ideal candidate will:
Demonstrate a passion for working with adolescent boys in a Catholic, college-prep setting
Support and uphold the mission of a Catholic and Xaverian educational community
Have at least a bachelor’s degree, (master’s preferred) in Spanish
Have experience teaching in a high school setting
Have superior interpersonal skills
Be open to incorporating technology in BYOD learning environment, and taking a role in the school community outside of the classroom.
Interested candidates please send a resume, cover letter, statement of educational philosophy, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation to Mr. Brendan Donohue, Principal at [email protected].
Annual Grandparent Mass in September
The Annual Grandparent Mass was well attended by over 400 people from current and alumni families. Father William Wallace of Wesleyan University was the celebrant. His homily focused on the living history of 9-11 Families, and the impact of grandparents who love unconditionally and share the wisdom of their years of experience.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Fall is fast upon us. Here are a few dates to keep in mind through the end of the calendar year:
October 1: The Fall Appeal will be hitting your mailboxes. Please be as generous as possible. Every gift of support helps this Catholic, college-prep high school remain a transformational experience for hundreds of young men annually. Xavier can’t do it without You!
October 15: Homecoming Alumni Reception, 12:00 p.m. and Xavier vs Fitch Football Game. Kickoff at 1:30 p.m. For more information and to register read below.
October 23: Fall Open House for new students. Please share with your family, friends and others.
October 28-29: Class of ’72 - 50th Reunion. For more information read below.
November 27: Thanksgiving Family Mass - all faith traditions are invited to celebrate mass together at this uniquely American time of year.
December 1: Saint Francis Xavier Society & Heritage Society Donor Reception at Griswold Inn, Essex
December 2: 2nd Annual Falcon Giving Day (online event)
December 27-28: Arthur M. Kohs Christmas Basketball Tournament and basketball player reunion.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Zachary M. Flynn, Class of ’07, graduated Magna Cum Laude from Fordham University with his master’s Degree in Law, LCSW, last May.
Michael J. Nichols, Class of ’01, has taken the position of Downtown Boston Business Improvement District after a successful 5-year stint as Executive Director of Boston’s Esplanade Association.
Homecoming Reception: Oct 15, 12:00 noon. All alumni, Saint Francis & Heritage Society Members are invited to come back at Homecoming on October 15 for this invitation only reception in the music suites. Homecoming Football, Xavier vs Fitch, kicks off is at 1:30 p.m. R.S.V.P. to Suzanne Berry, [email protected].
Class of '72 Reunion: To sign up for the Class of 1972 50th reunion on Oct 28-29, click HERE. There also is a 50th Reunion Facebook page.
Share Your News: jobs, graduations, accomplishments, weddings, births, retirements, and certainly if there are deaths in our Xavier community please let us know.
Alumni: Remember to follow us Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter, send it to them.
IN MEMORIUM
Lenore Wrang Schumann, mother of Alan, Class of ’78, grandmother of Matthew ’05, and Nickolas ’08 and Al Cosenza ’12. To read the obituary click HERE.
Anthony Arena, father of John, Class of ’84, and Thomas, Class of ’87. To read the obituary click HERE.
Theresa Grasso, grandmother to Nick Grasso ‘ To read the obituary click HERE.
Marie Scionti Milardo, former cafeteria staffer. To read the obituary click HERE.
Paul “Topsy” Del Gobbo, father in law of Charlie Carroll and grandfather of Parker Carroll . To read the obituary click HERE.
Paul Inferrera, father of Robert Inferrera Jr. ’84. To read the obituary click HERE.
Each month we remember those who have died recently or those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families and friends in your prayers.
ALUMNI & COMMUNITY REMINDERS
Please let the advancement team know of your new contact information. Send USPS mail, email and cell information. Use [email protected].
Parents of Alumni: do you continue to get your son’s Xavier mail at your home? Please send the school his current mail and emailing information.
For general information and news on the school go to xavierhighschool.org and Xavier High School on Facebook. If you are looking for sports news, please go to our athletic website, xavierfalcons.com. E-Newsletters are archived on the website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving tab.
THE XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER
- read at the close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
August 2022 Newsletter
AROUND & ABOUT
Xavier Leadership Institute (XLI) at Holy Family Retreat & Conference Center, West Hartford was attended by seniors, faculty, and alumni leaders in August. To see more photos from this event go to the Xavier High School Facebook Page (facebook.com/XavierHighCT).
155 Freshmen were welcomed by their Big Falcons at Falcon Blast on August 25. Fourteen transfer students are joining us at orientation in late August and early September. The first official day of school is Tuesday, September 6.
The Freshman Class of 2026 has over 15 legacy families and counting. Xavier has a growing number of three generation legacies this year.
Xavier Alumni Golf Classic - September 9, The 2022 Alumni Golf Classic at Portland Golf Course is sold out to players, but sponsorships to support student financial aid are still an option. Consider a special honorary sponsorship in the name of former Athletic Director, Tony Jaskot ’69, and / or a memorial sponsorship for Alumni Golf Classic committee member, Ron Raffele ‘70. Contact Greg Jaskot at [email protected] or 860-346-7735, X733.
On Jugs and Grudges, from Brother James Kelly, Principal 1982 - 1991
“Parents occasionally ask what the purpose of Jug (justice under God) is, some have even been so bold as to suggest that we might find some more positive punishment than Jug. But why tamper with success? Jug does two things which every school boy hates: It wastes his time, and it’s boring. The whole point of Jug is to impress upon the student that actions have consequences.”
And, about getting and giving jugs, “That’s one of the most delightful things about working with teenage boys. They just don’t hold grudges. I even saw in a number of them a grudging respect for me that I had stuck to my word.”
From Respecting the Man the Boy Will Become, A Parent’s Guide to Loving, Teaching and Raising Teenage Boys, Brother James M. Kelly C.F.X., 1999, St. Xavier High School and Butler Books, pages 47-49.
Calling All Alumni! The City of Middletown Police Department is looking to hire an entry level police officer. If interested, please click HERE for more information. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on September 15.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Another Summer is in the history books. Here are a few dates to keep in mind through the end of the calendar year:
September 9: Xavier Alumni Golf Classic at Portland Golf Course
September 11: Annual Grandparents Mass in the Gym – all family members - current and past, as well as all faith traditions are invited to celebrate together.
October 15: Homecoming Alumni Reception, 12:30 p.m. and Xavier vs Fitch Football Game. Kickoff at 12:30 p.m. For more information and to register read below.
October 28-29: Class of ’72 - 50th Reunion. For more information read below.
November 27: Thanksgiving Family Mass - all are invited to show our thankfulness.
December 1: SFX Donor Reception at Griswold Inn, Essex
December 2: 2nd Annual Falcon Giving Day (online event)
December 27-28: Arthur M. Kohs Christmas Basketball Tournament
IN THE NEWS
Larry McHugh, was appointed to the board of the CT Port Authority. To read the full article click HERE.
ALUMNI UPDATES
Evan Damuck ’12 is working in IT in Boston, and Ethan Damuck ’13 is working in home construction in Bangor Maine. Their parents, Roger and Tricia, own BlueJacket Ship Crafters in Searsport Maine.
Homecoming Alumni Reception & Football Alumni Reunion Oct 15, 12:30 p.m. All alumni are invited to come back at Homecoming on October 15 for a special alumni reception in the music suites. Homecoming Football, Xavier vs Fitch, kicksoff at 12:30 p.m. R.S.V.P. to Suzanne Berry, [email protected].
Class of '72 Reunion, To sign up for the Class of 1972 50th reunion on Oct 28-29, click HERE. There also is a 50th Reunion Facebook page.
IN MEMORIUM
Each month we remember those who have died recently or those who are called to our attention. Please keep them, their families and friends in your prayers.
Anna Buckley, mother of John Buckley, and grandmother of Brendan, `19 and John. To read the obituary click HERE.
Tim Jurek, father of David ’04. To read the obituary click HERE.
Daniel Farquharson ’85, to read the obituary click HERE.
James Henry ‘81, to read the obituary click HERE.
Richard London, father of Alex ‘24. To read the obituary click HERE.
Mary Konefal, mother of Dave ’72. To read the obituary click HERE.
ALUMNI & COMMUNITY REMINDERS
Please let the advancement team know of your new contact information. Send USPS mail, email and cell information. Use [email protected].
Parents of alumni – do you continue to get your son’s Xavier mail at your home? Please send the school his current mail and emailing information.
If you have news to share: new jobs, graduations, accomplishments, weddings, births, retirements, and certainly if there are deaths in our Xavier community please let us know.
Alumni – Remember to follow us Linked In to share your career news, and to strengthen networking opportunities for all alumni, recent graduates, and current students. If classmates are not receiving this e-newsletter send it to them. They can contact us directly with their preferred email.
If you are looking for general information and news on the school go to xavierhighschool.org and Xavier High School on Facebook. If you are looking for sports news, please go to our athletic website, xavierfalcons.com. E-Newsletters are archived on the website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving tab.
THE XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL PRAYER
- read at the opening and close of school each day
Loving Father,
We ask you to protect the students, faculty and staff at Xavier High School.
Guide us to salvation by following the example of Jesus Christ, your Son.
Inspire us with your grace, to seek both academic success and spiritual wisdom as we use your gifts and talents in service to others.
Help us to find the strength and passion to be leaders and pioneers like Theodore James Ryken, the Xaverian Brothers and those who founded our school.
May we, in turn, accept the challenge to spread the Word of God and make the world a better place for all people.
We ask this, through Christ, our Lord. Amen
Saint Francis Xavier pray for us.
- Chris Danko ’11 and Francis Rowland ‘11
Xavier High School is part of the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) network of thirteen high and middle schools in the United States. To learn more about the XBSS Network go to xbss.org.
July 2022 Newsletter
XAVIER ALUMNI GOLF CLASSIC - September 9, 2022 Jaskot & Raffele Sponsorships The 2022 Alumni Golf Classic at Portland Golf Course is sold out to players, but sponsorships to support student financial aid are still an option for anyone who is able to help young men benefit from the Xavier experience. Consider a special honorary sponsorship in the name of retired Coach Tony Jaskot ’69, and / or a memorial sponsorship for Alumni Golf Classic committee member, Ron Raffele ‘70, who died in November of 2021. Both of these men are beloved members of the Xavier community. The Alumni Golf Classic has become the largest single donor to Xavier High School. With your help, it can become even more impactful. Let’s make the transformational Xavier experience an option for even more students in 2022. Contact Greg Jaskot at [email protected] or 860-346-7735, ex-733. All sponsors will be featured on the course and in published materials.
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June 2022 Newsletter
Dates To Keep In Mind
From all of us at Xavier, we hope you are enjoying your summer. We wish you happy and healthy times ahead. A few dates to keep in mind through the end of the calendar year:
Sept. 11: Grandparent's Mass at Xavier
Oct. 15: Homecoming Reception and Football Game at Xavier
Oct. 21: Mercy-Xavier Walk-A-Thon
Oct. 28-29: Class of 1972 50th Reunion (more information below)
Nov. 27: Thanksgiving Mass at Xavier
Dec. 1: SFX & Heritage Society Reception at Griswold Inn, Essex
Dec. 2: Falcon Giving Day (online event)
Dec. 27-28: Arthur M. Kohs Christmas Tournament at Xavier
Alumni Updates
Jason "Jake" Edwards '90 is Director of the Honors Program at Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville, GA, as well as an Assistant Professor of English. He and his wife Michelle live in Suwanee, GA.
Zachary Flynn '07 graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Masters of Social Work from Fordham University on May 24. He is employed with the State of New York.
Patrick Renstrom '10 is a 2014 Bentley graduate now a manager with PwC (PriceWaterhouseCoopers) in its national finance transformation management consulting.
Collin Malloy '18 of Middletown, a finance major, was awarded a bachelor's degree from Providence College. Malloy was awarded the Col. J. Gardner Conway ’36 Alumni Sabre Award. The Providence College Alumni Association, on behalf of the graduates who have been commissioned through ROTC and in memory of Col. J. Gardner Conway ’36, presents a ceremonial military sabre to the cadet who achieves the highest standing in the cadet corps in terms of military aptitude, moral character, scholastic achievement, and leadership potential.
Malloy was also the ROTC Battalion Commander as well as a member of the Rugby Club and Friars Club. Malloy will be commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in the U.S. Army Active Duty.
Marty Wall '18 will be a senior at Marquette. He is majoring in Mechanical Engineering and has a summer internship at Waukesha Gas Engines as a Performance Engineer. "It's been very busy, but I'm learning a lot," he reports.
Giulio Giuffrida '19 has won a prize for outstanding work in the humanities at Boston University. He was awarded the Edwin S. and Ruth M. White Prize from the school's Center for the Humanities.
$10,000 Donation In Memory Of Kleinhen
A total of $10,000 from the Eluned and Edward Russell Charitable Foundation is being given to Xavier, $5,000 to the Brother J. Robert Houlihan, C.F.X., Endowed Scholarship Fund, and $5,000 for what will become the Houlihan Innovation Science Lab here at Xavier. Brother Houlihan died in July of 2021. The gift is in memory of Brian M. Kleinhen, who died in a motorcycle accident in 2018 at the age of 47.
Class of '72 Reunion
To sign up for the Class of 1972 50th reunion, please click HERE. There also is a 50th Reunion Facebook page.
Around The Campus
Once the school year was done, the chapel started to receive a facelift that includes new lighting and two coats of a brighter white paint. Also, new air conditioning units were installed, another part of being more energy sufficient.
Sam Enes ‘23 and Gavin Dow ’23 were selected to participate in the United States Naval Academy Summer Seminar, a six-day program that gives high school students a taste of what it’s like to be a midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy.
Thirteen students left on the morning of June 20 for a service trip to Camden, N.J. The trip brings students to the Romero Center, whose ministries serve the poor and vulnerable members of the Camden community.
The Red Cross blood drive at Xavier on June 27, led by Allen Vidallion '23, was a success. The drive surpassed the goal of 39 units with a total of 46 units collected. Vidallion was assisted by Vincent Salamone '23 and Cormac Burke '24.
Xavier had a total of 417 students make the Headmaster's and Principal's List for the 2021-2022 school year. To view the full set of names from both lists as well as the honor roll from each quarter, click HERE.
In honor of Memorial Day, the Xavier Cycling Club hosted a fundraiser ride and run to raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project. Tristan Schemmerling '23, who aspires to attend one of the military academies, is the co-founder of the cycling club. He currently is a Cadet Master Sergeant in the Royal Charter Composite Squadron of the U.S. Civil Air Patrol. About $1,200 was raised.
GameTimeCT compiled the list of state championships by school for the 2021-2022 academic year. Xavier was in a six-way tie for second most with four (Class L cross country, Class L indoor track, Class L and State Open wrestling). Only one of those six schools besides Xavier had four boys titles, though. Of the three schools that won five titles, none had more than three boys titles. The list can be found HERE.
Drew Kron ‘22 and Tyler Hartley ‘22, each of whom will play college baseball next season, wrapped up their high school careers at Xavier by making the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Class LL All-State team. They also were named to the Academic All-State team. Kron, headed for UConn, hit .400, scored a school-record 38 runs, had 30 hits, walked 27 times, and stole 20 bases. He had three home runs, drove in 19 runs and also made the GameTimeCT All-State first team and the New Haven Register All-Area Team. This summer Kron is playing for the Norwich Sea Unicorns of the Futures Collegiate Baseball League of New England. In a June 12 game, he stole three bases. On June 18, he had three hits. Information on Norwich can be found HERE.
Hartley (Marist) was 5-1 with a save, a 1.70 ERA, and 69 strikeouts for the Falcons. A number of Xavier athletes from spring sports made the All-SCC teams, which can be found HERE.
Eamon Burke '22 made the GameTimeCT All-State second team in boys outdoor track and field. Burke capped off his Xavier career by finishing 11th in the 5000 at the New Balance Nationals June 16 at historic Franklin Field in Philadelphia. In his four years as a Falcon runner for the cross country, and indoor and outdoor track programs, he was part of five state team championships, and goes down in history as one of the best distance runners at Xavier.
Nick Cerreta '01, the Dean of Students and baseball coach, was named the Southern Connecticut Diamond Club Coach of the Year. Xavier had a 22-4 record this season, reaching the Class LL quarterfinals.
Stefanie Reay was named boys volleyball coach of the year in the SCC. Xavier reached the semifinals of the Class M tournament and finished 16-7, winning nine of 10 in the Xavier gym.
Rory McCormack '22 was named to the GameTimeCT first team in boys volleyball. He led the Falcons with 282 kills, 61 aces and 269 digs. Peter O'Brien '23 made the second team.
Remembering Our Brothers
Bother James L. Sullivan (Brother Valerius)
Born: Roxbury, Mass., Nov. 8, 1930. Died: Milton, Mass., June 10, 1988
From the Xaverian Menology: "In 1965 he became the first Director of Guidance at the newly founded Xavier High School in Middletown. By his own admission he left a part of his heart in Middletown, and, fittingly, the guidance suite at Xavier is named in his memory. After leaving Xavier in 1969, he became the Superior at Notre Dame, Utica. After Utica he began a long career in provincial administration serving as Vicar Provincial, Provincial, and Provincial Treasurer. As a Superior and Provincial, Brother James was a 'no nonsense' kind of man, but he never let that get in the way of his heart. He knew when a Brother needed a gentle and listening heart or when a Brother needed a good kick."
In Memoriam
Each month we remember those who have died recently or those who have been called to our attention.
Michael Papallo, Class of 1969: To view the obituary, click HERE.
Bob Chapman, Class of 1977: To view his obituary, click HERE.
Carl R. Erlacher Jr., father of Carl Jr. '84 and grandfather of Nicholas '12: To view the obituary, click HERE.
Bart Bozzi, Class of 1972: To view the obituary of Mr. Bozzi, who died in 2019, click HERE.
A Few Reminders
If you are looking for general information and news on the school, go to xavierhighschool.org. If you are looking for sports news, please go to our athletic website, xavierfalcons.com.
Alumni newsletters are archived on our website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving section.
If you know of an alumni who is not getting the newsletter, please have them email [email protected] with their name, address, email address & phone number.
May 2022 Newsletter
Xavier Graduates 182 In Class of 2022
Xavier graduated 182 at its 56th commencement exercises on Saturday, May 21. A few highlights from that and the Baccalaureate Mass on Friday evening, May 20. Two members of the 2022 graduating class were twins Benjamin and Michael Pitruzzello; they were the fourth Pitruzzello brothers to come here. Their father Carl is the Class of 1986. Xavier presented an award to the 19 alumni fathers, grandfathers, and guardians of Saturday’s graduating seniors. They each received a special engraved medal. Pitruzzello was one. So, too, was Hans Fjellman, Class of 1967, whose grandson Matthew Stevens is in the Class of 2022. That drew a loud roar from the crowd. As did the recognition of Brother Thomas Ryan, C.F.X., for his 25 years at Xavier, and all the major award winners.
Valedictorian: Aidan Higgins of Rockfall, who will attend Harvard and major in English Literature.
Salutatorian: Matthew O’Connor of Cromwell, who will attend UConn as the recipient of the STEM Presidential Scholarship to study Actuarial Science.
Loyalty & Service Award: Mitchell Wollen of Wallingford, who will attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
Falcon Achievement Award: Drew Kron of Hebron, who will attend UConn as a Division I scholarship baseball player.
Principal's Academic Achievement Award: Dylan Misenti. He will attend Bryant University and is the son of Jeff Misenti, Class of 1986. This was awarded at the close of the Baccalaureate Mass.
A few numbers from graduation:
$2.2 million: What the Class of '22 earned in scholarships next year.
$8.5 million: What the Class of '22 earned over the next four years.
25: Number of students attending UConn
2: Number of students going to both Harvard and Yale. Also, number of students going to a military academy (U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Air Force Academy).
Alumni President's Message
Congratulations to the class of 2022 and welcome to the Alumni Association! Your Alumni Association is developing our schedule for next year, including a volunteer sign-up to facilitate your opportunity to be involved next year. If you would like to be involved, we will make room for you at an event or on a committee to help drive the engagement of your Xavier Alumni Community. On behalf of the Alumni Association, have a safe and blessed summer. Should you need anything, you are always welcome to connect with us through our alumni email.
Alumni Association President Brian Farrell '86
College Networking
The 2022 graduates received lists from the previous three graduating classes so that when they get to their particular college they can network with other Xavier grads attending the same school. If you'd like to network with those from your college, please let us know what college you attended or are attending, and your email address.
View Artie Kohs Video Tribute
The CAS-CIAC Hall of Honors induction dinner for the Class of 2019-2020, delayed due to COVID, was held May 26 with one of the inductees being the late Artie Kohs, the father of Xavier athletics. He started the program in 1963 and here we are nearly 60 years later with 98 state and New England championships. Thanks to all who contributed to this video tribute of Mr. Kohs and to John Holt of CAS-CIAC for putting this together. It is fit for a King, and that was one of Artie’s nicknames. View the video.
Ciamarra Is NCAA Doubles Champion
Richard Ciamarra '17, a graduate transfer from Notre Dame, and sophomore Cleeve Harper won the men's NCAA Doubles National Championship for Texas with a 5-7, 6-4, 1-0 (7) victory over No. 2 Matej Vocel and Robert Cash of Ohio State on Saturday at the Khan Outdoor Tennis Complex in Champaign, Ill. Ciamarra and Harper were seeded fourth. The match was decided in a third-set super tiebreaker. Read the story here.
Support Xavier At Panizzo in Rocky Hill
Xavier is proud to partner with Panizzo in Rocky Hill, owned and operated by Fran DelMastro, Class of 1979. Through the end of June, 10 percent of gross sales to any Xavier alumni, current Xavier family or family of Xavier alumni who mention the DINE TO DONATE program will be donated to Xavier. That includes dining in, taking out, delivery, or catering. Join us for terrific Italian Street Food at Panizzo and help support Xavier! Here is the outstanding MENU.
Alumni Updates/Milestones
Brian O’Neill ’74 worked for Pfizer for 35 years as a medicinal chemist before retiring five years ago, and now he consults for smaller companies.
David Boraks '77 is a climate reporter the National Public Radio affiliate WFAE in Charlotte.
Boraks also has worked for many newspapers, including the Middletown Press, Waterbury Republic-American, the Hartford Courant, and the Charlotte Observer.
Brian Devins '93 lives in Weston, Fla.. He is a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent, Dania Beach Station, Miami Sector. His previous stations were Yuma, AZ, and Nogales, AZ. "I was detailed to the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force in Miami, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. I was also a Federal Air Marshall from 2002-2006."
Nick Finnell '03 is Senior Manager, Sales Special Projects, for JA Solar USA, which sells solar panels.
Joe Perrelli '11 is a project manager for Martel Construction Inc., in Bozeman, MT. "My first project with this company was building a large lodge in Yellowstone National Park ... I had grizzly bears, elk, moose, deer, bison, etc., outside my cabin most days!"
Gavin O’Connell '18 graduated May 22 Magna Cum Laude from the University of Rhode Island with a double major in International Relations and French. Gavin was also recognized before graduation with an Academic Excellence Award, which is presented each year to fewer than 80 graduating seniors who have proven to be exceptional students. These students have been selected by their respective departments as the most outstanding in their chosen fields. Gavin plans to complete his post-graduate studies at URI to obtain an MA in International Relations with a concentration in Diplomacy and Statecraft.
Colby Dahl ‘21 earned his private pilot’s license and is continuing his education at Liberty University toward a degree in Aeronautics. He was recently inducted into the Tao Sigma Honor Society.
Sam Baker '21 received the Joseph E. Sheerin Merit Prize in the Study of Classical Languages and Literatures as Assumption University honored 84 students with academic awards at the annual spring Honors Convocation on April 11.
Steven Berry '83 and his wife Suzanne, Mercy '83, celebrated their 25th anniversary.
Tim Boyle QB/WR One-Day Camp June 25
The Tim Boyle QB/WR one-day camp will be held at Xavier on June 25 from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. The costs is $60; the camp is open to those in grades 5-12. A T-shirt is included in the fee. Boyle is the former Xavier quarterback now playing for the Detroit Lions in the National Football League. Register here.
Class of 1972 50th Reunion
To register for the Class of 1972 50th reunion, click here.
Around The Campus
- New lights will be installed in the chapel in June.
- On Thursday night, April 28, Xavier held its Academic Achievement Night in which more than 70 awards were handed out. The master of ceremonies was National Honor Society President Selorm Dogbey '22, an example of a Xaveir student who has melded athletics, extracurriculars and academics seamlessly. Principal Brendan Donohue told those students gathered: "The fact that you are here tonight means that God has given you a great gift. With that gift comes the responsibility to use it wisely. Congratulations to all of you, and keep using your gifts to make yourself and the world a better place."
- Noah Howell '22 earned Eagle Scout status. His Eagle Scout project was raising funds, planning, and constructing improvements to the East Hampton Food Bank vegetable garden, which is maintained by the Belltown Gardening Club. The food bank helps those in need in East Hampton.
- The EJK Car Show, which benefits the Eric J. Kalber Scholarship Fund, once again attracted cars of all makes and years as the front parking lot was filled on May 8. The event honors the memory of Kalber '04, who was killed in an automobile accident in 2005. There were some real classics at the show, even one that is closing in on being 100 years old, a 1925 Ford dump truck. Then, to name just a few more, a 1965 red Pontiac GTO, a ‘49 Chevy, a ‘33 Plymouth Coup, a 2007 Ford Roush Mustang, a 2013 Chevy Corvette 60th anniversary, and a 1987 Jaguar XJS. The show raised about $3,700 for the scholarship fund.
- Sophomore Kyle Levesque received the first Joseph W. Morelli '02 Memorial Scholarship for excellence on the Xavier wrestling team. Joe was an outstanding wrestler who died from a rare form of cancer in 2018. A Facebook page can be found here.
What's New With You?
We are interested in any and all news of our alumni, from milestones to personal and career achievements. You can email [email protected] with alumni news.
In Memoriam
Gerald J. Harvey, father of former Xavier Principal Brother Lawrence Harvey, C.F.X.: For Gerald's obituary please click here.
John P. Bozzi Jr, Class of 1967: For John's obituary please click here.
A Few Reminders
If you are looking for general information and news on the school, go to xavierhighschool.org. If you are looking for sports news, please go to our athletic website, xavierfalcons.com.
Alumni newsletters are archived on our website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving section.
If you're a published author, we'd like to hear about it. We have a number of books on our shelves from Xavier graduates, but would love to showcase more.
If you know of an alumni who is not getting the newsletter, please have them email [email protected] with their name, address, email address & phone number.
April 2022 Newsletter
Message From Our Alumni President
Join Webinar Featuring Headmaster Dave Eustis
I hope that everyone had a joyous Easter. Please register for the Alumni Association Webinar Series featuring Headmaster Dave Eustis on May 11 at 7 p.m. Dave will discuss the state of the school and provide insight into future plans and highlight the Class of 2022. Next month features the graduation of a very large and successful Xavier class. Find out more about them on May 11. Xavier is working hard to fill the class of 2026, so please recruit future alumni and connect with the Admissions Director. You will be doing someone a life-changing favor.
According to the Alumni Survey results, we perceive the Xavier brand as incredibly positive. Your fellow alumni say they are, “Proud to be an alumni,” that “stories of academics, sports, extracurriculars, and civic engagement make Xavier’s image an incredibly positive one,” and that Xavier carries a “powerful sense of community and brotherhood.”
We are all in a position to enhance the Xavier brand by our actions, so please be active in the spirit of Xavier in everything that is important to you! If you want to be involved at Xavier, you are already invited!
Please CLICK HERE to register for the virtual event. If you have any questions, contact Associate Director of Advancement Greg Jaskot '00 at [email protected].
Brian Farrell '86, Alumni Association PresidentSupport Xavier At Panizzo Restaurant
EJK Car Show At Xavier On May 7
Alumni Updates
Sean Mahon ‘20 will be a sports photography intern with the New Britain Bees for the 2022 season, which starts May 26 with a home game vs. Norwich. Mahon is a sports management and marketing major at Merrimack College.
Shane Wilcox ’12 has joined Terran Orbital as “the company’s first Manufacturing Engineer to help build out a revolutionary SmallSat [small satellites] production operation from the ground up.” Terran Orbital can be found at https://terranorbital.com. Wilcox previously worked at SpaceX, where he most recently was the supervisor for Falcon 9 Stage 2 Integration & Testing. "Getting to have a hand in and be there for the first Falcon 9 landing, the first Falcon 9 re-flight mission, the initial flight of Falcon Heavy, the first Crew mission, the ramp up and deployment of Starlink, and many more milestones, was unbelievable," Wilcox posted on LinkedIn.
Neil Mitchill ’93 was part of the team from Raytheon Technologies that rang the closing bell on Wall Street April 4. He is the Chief Financial Officer and an Executive Vice President at Raytheon.
Brendan Donohue Jr. '19 was part of the University of Notre Dame Gaelic football team that won the title in the National Collegiate Gaelic Athletic Association Hurling and Football Nationals in Orlando, Fla. He is the son of Xavier Principal Brendan Donohue. Donohue Jr. is majoring in Political Science with a minor in Irish Studies. He studied abroad at UCD in Dublin last semester.
Connor Milone '14 has accepted an anesthesia residency at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in New Hampshire beginning this summer.
Artie Kohs In CIAC Hall of Honor
The late Artie Kohs is a member of the CAS-CIAC Hall of Honor Class of 2019-2020. The honoring of that class was delayed by COVID but will now take place May 26.The CAS-CIAC Hall of Honor was founded in 2015 to honor individuals who made significant and outstanding contributions to the organization over the course of their careers. Kohs died March 20, just short of his 85th birthday. Kohs built the athletic program from scratch when the doors opened in 1963. He was the longtime basketball coach and athletic director and served on many CIAC committees as well as being highly involved in state associations for coaches and athletic directors. He also was a longtime soccer official in the state. His sons Mike (Xavier basketball and golf coach) and Tim (Mercy athletic director and basketball coach) will be among the family members present to accept the award on behalf of their father.
What's New With You?
We'd love to hear from you. Tell us about a new job, awards and recognition, an engagement, wedding, retirement, a new baby in the family, a gathering with your classmates, a new hobby. Send photos, too, to [email protected].
Around the Campus
We Thank You
In Memoriam
Michael Kowalski, Class of 1982: For his obituary click here.
Robert A. Russo, Class of 1985: For his obituary click here.
Anthony Cretella, Class of 1990: For his obituary click here.
Harriet Levin, mother of Marc Levin '80: For her obituary click here.
Marilyn J. Braychak, mother of Xavier teacher Bill Braychak and mother-in-law of Xavier administrative assistant Marie Braychak: For her obituary click here.
Remembering Our Brothers
Brother Francis De Sales, C.F.X. (Thomas B. Rynne)
Born: Sept. 5, 1914, Somerville, Massachusetts. Died: April 8, 1996, Beverly Hospital, Beverly, Mass.
As things moved toward the opening of Xavier High School in 1963 Bro. Robert Sullivan, C.F.X., the first principal, sent a newsletter to parents announcing the first members of the faculty had been named. One of the seven Brothers was Bro. De Sales. The total number of faculty members was nine, with Artie Kohs and Larry McHugh being the lay members.
The Offertory Song at Bro. De Sale's funeral was “I Call You to My Father’s House.” The last stanza reads: "I call you to my Father’s house, a lovely dwelling place. Be not afraid to travel there and meet God face to face." Those who had the privilege to know Brother Francis de Sales, notes the Xaverian Menology, would have no difficulty in picturing the joy of this scene.
A Few Reminders
March 2022 Newsletter
Message From Our Alumni President
Welcome to spring; what happened to out like a lamb? Thank you to those who responded to the alumni survey as Xavier undertakes its strategic plan. Your feedback is critical as we support Xavier in delivering on its promise to make the best of each man. Your feedback demonstrated the importance of community, the call to support each other and the students, your interest in helping Xavier maintain its brand, and the importance of staying connected through communication about Xavier.
Thank you to Fran DelMastro ’97, who is contributing 10 percent of each bill for every alumni who dines at his Italian restaurant, Panizzo, in Rocky Hill. I have been there, and it is great for a family or for a date. Stay tuned for the state of the school provided by our Headmaster, Dave Eustis, in April; and Houli Day in May. Through the alumni survey, several folks offered to be involved with Alumni Association activities, and you can expect a call from the Alumni Association Resource Committee in response to your interest. For those who want to be involved, you are already invited, please email us.
Brian Farrell '86, Alumni Association President
Artie Kohs: One Of A Kind
We could go on and on. The tributes to Artie Kohs, who died Sunday, March 19, have been unending. As a coach, a teacher, an athletic director, a family man, a parishioner, a mentor, a friend, you name it. The school's first hire, first athletic director, first coach in multiple sports, impacted thousands of lives. Here are just a few of the hundreds of tributes from social media posts and stories.
Middletown Sports Hall Of Fame
Around The Campus
Wollen West Point Bound: Mitchell Wollen '22 earned an appointment to West Point. Wollen will attend the U.S. Military Academy in the fall. "Serving my country is a great opportunity," Wollen said. “Another big factor was my uncle Joe. He was a brigadier general in the Army who recently passed away. He always had a big impact on me from a young age, and I always wanted to follow in his footsteps.” Wollen, who has led numerous service initiatives of his own accord, also is a talented swimmer.
Simko Headed To Air Force Academy: Lukas Simko '22 will attend the United States Air Force Academy. His father Stephen graduated from Xavier in 1991 and from the Air Force Academy in 1995. His mother, Colonel (Ret) Gigi Simko, graduated from the Air Force Academy. “I’ve never been able to picture myself going anywhere else for college."
2,450 Items Collected: Xavier students brought in 2,450 toiletries that will be distributed by St. Vincent De Paul. The Outreach Program at St. Sebastian Church in Middletown came up with the idea and enlisted Xavier to help in the month of March. The freshman class brought in the most items, 1,031.
Junior Retreat: Sixty juniors attended the Junior Retreat March 17-19 at the aptly named Wisdom House in Litchfield. It is yet another step on the way to becoming senior leaders.
SCC Scholar Leaders: Adam Chasse and Aidan Pesce are Xavier's SCC Scholar Leaders for the 2021-2022 school year. Chasse is a National Merit Commended student, and a member of six honor societies. He is a valued member of both the hockey and baseball programs. He was chosen as captain of this year’s hockey team. Pesce has a GPA above 4.00, is a member of six honor societies, editor of the school newspaper, part of the state championship Robotics and indoor track and field teams, and is captain of the sailing team.
Xavier Earns Multiple SCC Honors: Xavier had one SCC Player of the Year and four SCC Coaches of the Year in a highly successful winter season. Dylan Reynolds '22 was the SCC Division I Player of the Year in hockey. The Coaches of the Year from Xavier: Mike Cunningham (wrestling), Bill Evison (Division I swimming), Chris Stonier (boys indoor track), and Karl Sundquist (boys hockey).
Volleyball Recognition: Brady Higgins and Rory McCormack were selected for the 2022 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Boys High School All-America Watch List.
Alumni Updates
Joe Witkowski '06 was an All-State baseball player at Xavier for coach Rich Magner, a three-time Big East champion at St. John’s, and a minor league player. Today he leads a band, Joey Wit and the Destination. He's headed to perform some shows in England in April before stops in Boston, New York and New Haven later in the month. For more on Witkowski’s music, click here.
Timothy Brough '15 received his B.S in Chemistry, with Merit, from the United States Naval Academy in 2020. He has since graduated from Naval Nuclear Power School in Charleston, S.C., and has been assigned as a Naval Officer to serve on the Nuclear Ballistic Submarine USS Maine out of Bremerton, Wash. Separately, he earned his Wilderness EMT and Wilderness First Responder Certification from the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) in Lander, WY, and spent two summers mountaineering and climbing Mt. Denali in Alaska.
Class of 1972 50th Reunion Dates Set
The 50th reunion for the Class of 1972 will be Oct. 28 and Oct. 29. More details to come, but the evening of Oct. 28 will involve getting together for food and drink and a Xavier football game. Stay tuned for more emails and visit the Class of 1972 Facebook page.
Remembering Our Xaverian Brothers
In Memoriam
David Pasquale, Class of 1968: For his obituary, please click here.
A Few Reminders
February 2022 Newsletter
Xavier Career Night A Success
As we approach the Lenten season, consider committing to a behavior, rather than abstention. Perhaps become more involved with an organization that can benefit from your skill set. Reach out to someone with whom you have lost touch. We more effectively grow and find meaning with people than without.
Some of our fellow alumni have done just that in participating in a revived and successful Career Night. We engaged nearly the entire junior class on Feb. 10 with career breakout sessions followed by a time of networking in the gym. It was a great success because of the efforts of the Alumni Board, with support from our fellow alumni whose engagement made the event fantastic: Jeff Misenti ’86 and Dana Wilson ’86 (Finance and Accounting), Chris Dibble ’12 and Andrew Gonzalez ‘12 (Finance and Investing), Matt DeKoeyer ’12 and Alex Thongsythavong ’12 (IT and Computer Programming), Troy DeLeon ’12, Michel Edelson ’12, and Vincent Cervoni ’86 (Law), Karl Van Bibber ’68 (Science/Tech/Engineering), Tom Hutton “83 (Business Leadership and Entrepreneurship), Joe Delaney ’86 (Arts and AV), Michael Spada ’97 (Health Services), Derek Puorro ’91 (Public Sector and Law Enforcement), Brian O’Looney ’86 (Architecture and Construction).
We accommodated “virtual volunteers” for the event, so wherever you are, you are never too far removed to provide or feel the support of your fellow alumni family. Thank you to Greg Jaskot '00 of the Advancement Office who carried the logistics and oversight, making the event happen. Thanks to Associate Communications Director Jeff Otterbein '72 for his involvement and coverage of the event and to Director of Guidance Nick Grasso '05 and his department for their assistance.
Coming up in March we have the Virtual College Fair on March 14-16 where our young alumni provide insight to Xavier students making their final decisions for college. Also, on March 23, please join the Xavier Alumni Speaker Series featuring Headmaster Dave Eustis for the “State of School Discussion.”
Get involved; you are already invited.
Brian Farrell '86, Alumni Association President
Raffle Tickets Remain But Selling Fast
Support Xavier, Get A Great Meal At Panizzo
Campus News
- The Xavier Engineering Team came in second in the state in the Real World Design Challenge and received a wild card slot to the national competition to be held virtually on April 23. The team members: Henry Stearns ‘23, Rithik Kurup ‘23, Jiahao Chen ‘23, Darren Sengphachanh ‘24, Patrick Clements-Dolan ‘25, Oliver Snow ‘25, and Joshua Raj ‘25.
- The Xavier robotics team won a state title with the FullMetal Peregrines getting the victory in the finals. The FullMetal Kestrels made it to the finals and the Full-Metal Merlins reached the semifinals. At the awards ceremony, the Peregrines were winners of the Motivate Award, recognizing the team's great outreach. The Kestrels were recognized as Innovate Award finalists for their outside-of-the-box robot design.
- Nearly 40 seniors were honored during Catholic Schools Week for 100 or more hours of community service. The required amount is 65. Those in triple digits: Andre Abarientos, Christopher Beaudoin, Damien Bianchi, Marcelo Burno, Nolan Burn, John Carrozzella, Adam Chasse, Nate Correia, Nick Cusano, Ryan Gerry, Kevin Gilhuly, Isaac Gonzalez, Chris Jacy, Stephen King, Tristan Kolb, Shea Krassner, Liam Lawler, Andrew Liptak, Nate Lowry, Michael McCauley, Aidan Muldoon, Jack Nowosad, Matt O’Connor, Justin Patenaude, Aiden Pesce, Andrew Quintana, Matthew Reardon, Patrick Rigg, Jack Roy, Liam Sheeley, Spencer Thompson, Matthew Tracy, Sheel Vallam, Steve Wohlmuth, Mitchell Wollen, Nikita Zuev.
- Liam Sheeley ’22 is an All-State vocalist with the Xavier Chorus, but that's not the half of it. He has learned to sing in different languages, and was one of 200 U.S. students selected for the All-National Honors Ensemble for Mixed Choir. The event, typically in San Diego every year, was held virtually from Jan. 22-24. Sheeley also was named the CAS Performing Arts winner from Xavier. Classmate Nicholas Cusano was named the CAS Visual Arts recipient. CAS (Connecticut Association of Schools) annually honors two outstanding seniors from each of the member schools in the state who excel in the performing or visual arts.
- Aidan Higgins '22 has been named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began more than 75 years ago. About 1.5 million high school students enter the program each year. Of those only about 15,000 are named finalists. That represents 1 percent. Higgins is the editor-in-chief of The Kestrel, Xavier’s online newspaper. He is a member of the National Honor Society as well as four other honor societies and multiple clubs, including the Ryken Service Society. Higgins helped start a chapter of the Surfrider Foundation at Xavier. That organization works to protect and preserve the world's oceans, waves, and beaches.
- Ten Xavier students participated in a service trip to Camden, N.J., Feb. 17-20. About one of every three people in Camden live in poverty, and the unemployment rate is about 15 percent. Students on the trip: Dario Adanti '23, Tyler Ferguson '23, Brian Malicki '22, Zach Myrick '23, Hunter Peckham '22, Mike Pitruzzello '22, Braden Pollack '22, Mario Pugliese '22, Jack Spilka '23, Jack Susca '22.
Campus Sports
- SCC record-setting performances: On Saturday, Feb. 5, Xavier won the SCC Wrestling Championships in its home gym with some mind-numbing numbers. Xavier had 264 points as a team, breaking the SCC record by 31 points, a record the Falcons set in 2015. The Falcons have won five consecutive SCC titles and nine of the past 10. And amazingly, Xavier sent 10 wrestlers to the championship matches and won all 10. Then on Sunday, Feb. 6, the indoor track team won the SCC Championship in New Haven, breaking a 13-year-old record for total points with 104.
- Add three more state titles the banners in the gym: Then came three state titles: the indoor track team won the Class L title on Feb. 12, finishing with 86.5 points and easily outdistancing Hillhouse by more than 30 points. The Falcons now have 14 indoor track titles. The Xavier contingent of Owen Pestka '22, Owen Miller '22, Eamon Conneely '22, and Chase Vitale '22 won the 4x200 relay in 1:33.32 for a school record. On Feb. 19, the wrestling team won the Class L title with a record-setting 318.5 points. Simsbury was a distant second at 234.5. Xavier sent nine wrestlers to the finals and five won Class L titles: Raekwon Shabazz '24, Max Morse '25, Jackson Heslin '25, Dylan Levesque '22, and Thomas Lunt '22. GameTimeCT reported that the 318.5 points breaks the state tournament record of 311.5, set by Danbury in Class LL in 2005, according to the Connecticut High School Wrestling Record Book. The wrestling team then easily won the the State Open last weekend with Heslin and Lunt winning titles and nine wrestlers overall finishing in the top five in their weight classes..
- Swimmers unbeaten: The swimming team is unbeaten as it heads into the SCC Championships on Wednesday (March 2). The Falcons have won the SCC team title two years in a row. ... The basketball team (12-8) awaits the Division II state tournament next week. ... The hockey team (13-6-1) plays for the SCC Division I championships vs. Notre Dame Friday (March 4) at Bennett Rink. ... The rifle team finished fourth in the state high school championships at Blue Trail Range in Wallingford.
Class Of 1972 Reunion
Alumni Updates
- Ryan Curley '04 is First Selectman in Portland. He was elected in November and had been the town clerk. In January, another Xavier grad and lifelong Portland resident, Michael Tierney '01, was appointed town clerk by the Board of Selectmen.
- Ryan Walker ’05, who grew up in Higganum, is the founder of R.J. Walker & Co., a public relations firm. To see his interview with Authority Magazine, click HERE.
Remembering Our Brothers
Each month we remember a Brother who passed away that month and served at Xavier. The following is compiled from the Xaverian Menology.
A Few Reminders
January 2022 Newsletter
Career Fair, Headmaster Address,
Houli Day Are On The Horizon
Happy New Year. Xavier meets the new year live and in-person and feeling positive about academics, athletics, and the admissions process. Please recommend Xavier to your friends and family, it is truly the ideal place young men can grow and explore their potential.
Many of your will remember the Career Fair, where as juniors we met with alumni to learn about different careers. The Alumni Association, in partnership with Guidance and Advancement, is bringing the tradition back. On Feb. 10 from 6 p.m.–8 p.m. alumni will lead breakout sessions followed by a networking activity to participate in the stewardship of our future alumni. Please be part of the event; it is as simple as sending us an email.
In addition, keep an eye out for a “State of the School” address with Headmaster Dave Eustis in March. Remember Houli Day? Keep a lookout for an opportunity to celebrate the late Brother Robert Houlihan, C.F.X., as we reconstitute Houli Day in late spring. As always, you are already invited!
Brian Farrell '86, Alumni Association President, [email protected]
Your Chance To Cash In!
- Tickets are $100 each. Of the 800 tickets to be sold, about 500 remain. It is winner takes all. The proceeds benefit the Annual Fund, which supports all aspects of the school.
- The drawing will be at 11 a.m. on April 1 at Xavier High School. You do not need to be present to win, but you must be at least 18 years old to purchase. All tax liabilities are borne solely by the purchaser.
- Tickets may be purchased by mailing a check (no cash) to Xavier High School, 181 Randolph Road, Middletown CT 06457. They also can be purchased HERE.
For more information, contact the advancement office at 860-346-7735. Good Luck!
Black & White Auction March 26
The Xavier High School Home & School Association is pleased to announce the 30th annual "Black & White Auction," which will be held on Saturday, March 26. Donations are being accepted through March 4. With your support, the auction will help make a positive difference in the education of the young gentlemen and the future leaders of our community. We have various ways to receive your donation:
- Arrange a pick-up of any item you wish to donate.
- Mail your contribution directly to the school: 181 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT 06457 Attn: Auction Committee.
- Email us at [email protected]
Around The Campus
- Six Xavier juniors were selected to represent the school at the XBSS Junior Retreat in March. Luke Anderson, Dominic Cusano, Sam Enes, Nick Miano, Patrick Mitchill, and Brendan Peary were commissioned during a brief ceremony after a Mass in January. Colin Loria, who had a role in the commissioning of the juniors, will be the senior leader. Mr. John Guinan, the assistant Director of Campus Ministry, will be the adult leader.
- Xavier High School has been named a Top 10 high school for total number of students enrolled as well as most credit hours taken in the UConn Early College Experience program for the 2021-2022 academic year. The program started with two courses and about 10 students 14 years ago. Today Xavier is No. 7 with 220 students enrolled and No. 4 with 1,710 UConn credit hours taken through the UConn ECE program. Xavier offers 14 UConn ECE courses, equaling a total of 45 credits. The credits not only are transferable to UConn but to more than 80 percent of colleges across the country.
- After Xavier defeated No. 1 Danbury in wrestling in early January, it became the No. 1 ranked team in the state wrestling poll. Last Saturday the top-ranked Falcons hosted and won the Colter Abely Midseason Classic at Xavier. The Falcons are getting ready for the SCC Championships at Xavier on Feb. 5. There were 16 teams in the day-long Colter Abely tournament. Meanwhile in New Haven, the indoor track team prepared for what comes next by finishing first over Amity in the SCC Coaches Invitational by 24.5 points. Xavier was in the SCC West Sectional Championship Thursday and the SCC Championships will be Friday, Feb. 4. The team had numerous individuals personal bests in the SCC Coaches Invitational, including the fastest 1000 meters run this season by any Connecticut high school runner (Eamon Burke '22). For those stories and more, visit our athletic site, xavierfalcons.com.
- The swim team remains unbeaten at 6-0. Last season the Falcons won the SCC Championships for the second year in a row.
- The hockey team beat rival Fairfield Prep Jan. 26 and has not lost to an in-state team in more than a month. The Falcons are 9-3-0.
- On Nov. 13, 1970, Xavier cross country not only won the first title in program history, but the first in school history. Last fall, the Falcons won the Class L title, the 40th New England or Connecticut championship in program history. Each team was honored at a banquet on Jan. 23. Five members of that 1970 team were present: Bob "Rootie" Brown '72, Brian Curtis '72, Mike Marino '72, Frank Marsilli '72, and Bob Barry '72.
How Xavier Changed My Life
Alumni Updates
- Ben Howell (Hamilton), Sam Baker (Assumption), Will Lallier and Marcus Williams (Holy Cross), Spencer Higgs (Stonehill), and Evan St. Arnauld, Ethan Powers and Erik Fellenstein (Nichols) each made the honor roll in the fall semester.
- Carmine Grippo ‘19 was president of his freshman and sophomore classes at Quinnipiac, and this year as a junior is president of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on campus.
- Jaycen Carroll ’15 is a conductor for TransitAmerica Services on the CTrail Hartford Line operation.
Remembering Our Brothers
In Memoriam
Matthew Brown, Class of 1987: For his obituary please click HERE.
Mathew Donarumo, Class of 2003: For his obituary, please click HERE.
A Few Reminders
December 2021 Newsletter
Falcon Giving Day Raises Almost $38,000
Thank you to all who participated and donated to empower the Xavier High Falcons on Dec. 3, Falcon Giving Day. On that day 135 people donated almost $38,000. Your gifts of support lift each and every young man enrolled here. No matter what a student studies, or what sport or club he enjoys, your gifts make it happen every day. Thank you for being a part of this extraordinary community of alumni and family. Merry Christmas and best wishes for a joyful New Year.
Liz Whitty, Mercy '75, Director of Advancement
Message From Our Alumni President
Brian Farrell '86, Alumni Association President
Artie Kohs Classic: 2 Nights Of Hoop
$25,000 Cash Raffle Coming Soon
Around The Campus
Alumni Updates
Remembering Our Brothers
In Memoriam
Mark Hetzel, Class of 1974: For his obituary, please click HERE.
Derek Lee LaPlante, Class of 2014: For his obituary, please click HERE.
November 2021 Newsletter
Falcon Giving Day Is Friday
Alumni President's Message
Brian Farrell '86, Alumni Association President
Around The Campus
Cross Country Champions Yet Again
Alumni Updates
Upcoming Events
Class of 1972 Reunion
Remembering Our Brothers
In Memoriam
In Search Of ...
October 2021 Newsletter
Walk-A-Thon Far Exceeds Goal Of $100,000
The Mercy-Xavier Walk-A-Thon on Oct. 22 was a huge success.
Both schools far exceeded their goals of raising at least $100,000, with Xavier coming in at $120,058.
The money goes to the Xavier Annual Fund, which supports all clubs and activities, academic programs, athletic programs, and the arts.
For 25 years the Mercy/Xavier Walk-A-Thon was a spirited and competitive student fundraiser. This year the tradition was renewed. The campaign kicked off Oct. 1, and culminated with walks around the track by each class on Oct. 22.
“It was just a great day here at Xavier,” Headmaster Dave Eustis said. “After 23 years it was great to be back with Mercy in this event. A huge thanks goes out to all the donors, whether they are alums, parents, students, staff, faculty, people who just want to support Xavier and Mercy. We look forward to next year.”
It was a walk-a-thon and a game-a-thon and an eat-a-thon all rolled into one. Xavier and Mercy students were having a blast, whether they were walking on the track, playing games on the football field, taking advantage of the inflatables out front or taking their best shot at dunking someone in the dunk tank. Not to mention plenty of food vendors.
“Mercy High School was thrilled to welcome Xavier High School back to the Walk-a-Thon this year,” Mercy President Alissa DeJonge ‘95 said. “It is a wonderful event that showcases the collaboration and camaraderie between the two schools. We are blessed to have the support of both communities in making the fundraiser such a success.”
Two schools. One family.
Around The Campus
Helping babies and parents: Recently the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center had a campaign to collect books for parents of babies in the NICU. Enter Aedan Frazer, Xavier Class of 2023, who was an avid reader growing up, and his mother Milena, a NICU nurse at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Aedan led a book drive at Xavier in late September, during which about 430 books were brought in by students, faculty and staff. Aedan also had collected a few hundred outside of Xavier. “It was a good opportunity to help,” Aedan said. Said Milena: "Wow. Aedan and I are overwhelmed with appreciation and we are so proud to be a part of the amazing Xavier family."
National Honor Society Induction: On Thursday night, Oct. 7, 87 students were inducted into the National Honor Society. Along with current students previously inducted the total of NHS students is 188 this year.
Kunzelman An Eagle Scout: In mid-October Kyle Kunzelman ’24 officially became an Eagle Scout. His project at the1960 Reservoir in Wethersfield involved clearing the land, mulching the area and putting out two picnic tables at the recreation area.
Upcoming Events
Homecoming Football Reception & Game, Nov. 6: Please join us for Homecoming 2021 on Nov. 6. The game is at 6 p.m. at Larry McHugh Field vs. Notre Dame-West Haven. There is a reception in the Xavier Dining Hall at 4 p.m., with some COVID restrictions. The number of guests in the room will be limited but there are plenty of spots available. Masks must be worn when not eating or drinking. There will be hors d'oeuvres plus beer and wine, making it an adult-only occasion. Please RSVP to 860-346-7735, Ext. 737, or to [email protected].
Thanksgiving Family Mass, Sunday, Nov. 28: Join us at Xavier for a 10 a.m. Mass as we give thanks for who we are and all we have been given. Families of all faith traditions are welcome. Please RSVP to Suzanne Berry at 860-346-7735, Ext. 727, or to [email protected].
The 18th Arthur M. Kohs Christmas Tournament, Dec. 27-28: The yearly event is back after last year’s tournament was canceled because of COVID. The schedule -- Monday, Dec. 27: Waterford-Glastonbury, 5:30 p.m.; Valley Regional-Xavier, 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 28: Consolation game, 5:30 p.m.; championship game, 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29, will be used as a snow date if necessary.
Alumni Updates
Jim Cannata '85 works in Marketing in Charlotte, N.C. After Xavier he majored in Art at Jacksonville University in Florida. Upon graduation he landed in Atlanta and worked for a few ad agencies before moving to Charlotte in 2009. Back in 1974, after Xavier beat Mercy, raising more money in the Walk-A-Thon, Cannata and classmates Mark Catania and Jim Connolly rigged up Cannata's 1974 Chrysler with a cardboard Falcon head, tail and articulating wings. They drove over to Mercy to gloat.
Scott McGuinness '05 recently walked the stage for commencement exercises at the University of Rochester. He earned a PhD in counseling and counselor education in 2020. Ceremonies were delayed for close to a year and a half by COVID. He is an assistant professor at the school and the son of Bob McGuinness ’73.
Ben Chase '06 will have his first book of poetry, "Here To See It," published this summer. Chase said it has been a goal of his for about 15 years. He has a Masters of Fine Art and is the English Department chair at Christian Heritage School in Trumbull and a Seton Hall adjunct in American Literature.
Greg Marino ’10 works for iCapital Network in a finance merger and acquisition function. Marino also worked at Cantor Fitzgerald for a while. That organization lost 658 employees in the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City, one of those lives being Peter Gelinas ’86. “Cantor always was a somber place on 9/11, and all the lives lost was always hard to wrap your head around,” Marino said. “I have a lot of friends who have a deep connection to Cantor and it'll be one of those things that sticks with me forever.” Recently, on the 20th anniversary of 9/11, he went to the site and paid his respects.
Calvin Platt '14 is a Senior Account Sales Executive with the 2021 NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks had not won the title in 50 years. They were the 1971 NBA champs, led that year by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson.
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From The Archives
Soccer then ... The newspaper clipping has the date – 9/28/63 – written in the left corner. The headline: Xavier Wins First Soccer Contest, 5-1. Since this was the first year of the school, there were only freshmen on the team. The Falcons beat the Valley Regional junior varsity team. The coach was Artie Kohs. Seb Emanuele had three goals for Xavier, and Gerry Kosicki and Mike DeBaise had one each.
And soccer now ... Xavier just completed an unbeaten season at 14-0-2 and is the top seed in the SCC playoffs, which start Saturday. The Falcons are ranked No. 1 in the CSCA large school poll and are the top-rated team by the CIAC in Class LL.
SCC Champs Yet Again!
Different year, same results: For the sixth straight year and the 14th time overall, the Xavier varsity runners brought home the SCC title on Oct. 20. In the day's championship race, Eamon Burke '22 led the way with an individual title in a blazing 15:35.20 to pace the team to a 21-point victory over Daniel Hand. Burke's time was a personal best. Fittingly, in a season in which he continues to make his presence felt, he was named the SCC Cross Country Runner of the Year.
Brody Santagata '22 also had a big race, finishing in 16:19 for fourth place. Other top finishers for Xavier, which placed six runners in the top 18 on its way to scoring 52 points, were Josh Lesniak (14th, 16:50); Jacob Kirejczyk (16th, 17:02); Alex Ushchak (17th, 17:05); and Sam Simko (18th, 17:08). Next up: the Class L Championship on Saturday.
In Memoriam
Lost And Not Yet Found
September 2021 Newsletter
Another Successful Alumni Golf Event
The Mercy-Xavier Walk-A-Thon Is Back!
The Mercy-Xavier Walk-A-Thon is back on the calendar after a long hiatus. For 25 years, starting in 1974, the walk-a-thon was a competitive schoolwide fundraising event that helped both schools. This year at Xavier, instead of the Ad Drive, we renew this tradition. The goal at Xavier is to raise at least $100,000. The money supports all of Xavier's clubs and activities, academic programs, athletic events, and the arts. The 2021 campaign culminates with a walk on the Xavier track, activities, food trucks, music and much more. If you are interested in a sponsorship, please contact Associate Director of Advancement Greg Jaskot at [email protected]. You can also visit https://tinyurl.com/4z8nt68y to support Xavier for this year’s Walk-A-Thon.
Message From Alumni Association President
Your Alumni Association kicked off the year with our first meeting that included three new Board members. We are proud to welcome Mike Edelson '08, Sal Nesci '14 and Troy DeLeon '16 to the Board and look forward to their contribution to our membership, with a focus on developing the Young Alumni Committee. Our first Xavier Motorcycle Ride provided great weather, excellent roads, and great company, ending in everyone arriving safely for a warm cup of coffee at Perkatory, a Xavier/Mercy-owned business. We have exciting programing this year to support fellow alumni and current students. Consider yourself invited to be a part of this year’s socials, Speaker Series, Career and College Fairs, and much more. We hope this year provides opportunities to get our membership together.
-- Brian Farrell '86, Alumni Association President, [email protected]
Open House On Oct. 17
Xavier is having an Open House from 1-3:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 17. If you know of any families that might be interested, please pass on the word. Registration is at xavierhighschool.org.
Around The Campus
- The Opening Of School Mass celebrated by the Most Rev. Michael Cote, Bishop of the Norwich Diocese, was on Tuesday, Sept. 7. Bishop Cote reminded the students that the start of the new school year is a time to come with “expectant faith. We come with open minds and hearts to learn and grow. We are an ordinary people chosen by God to do extraordinary things. Because of God’s grace all things are possible for us.”
- Aidan Higgins ’22 has been named a National Merit semifinalist. Each year, approximately 1.5 million students entered the National Merit Scholarship program by taking the PSAT in their junior year. Of those students, approximately 16,000 were recognized nationally as semifinalists for their outstanding performance. Higgins is now eligible to become a finalist.
- Seven named Commended Students: Andrei Abarientos, Adam Chasse, Stephen King, Matt O’Connor, Mario Pugliese, Will Schneider, and Liam Sheeley, each a member of the Class of 2022, have been named Commended Students in the National Merit Scholarship Program.
- Xavier opened the school day on Friday, Sept. 10, by remembering all who died in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Included among those was Peter Gelinas '86. It was the 20th anniversary of that horrible day.
- The Grandparents Mass was celebrated on Sunday, Sept. 12 in the gymnasium with many families attending. The family Mass is one of the most popular events on the calendar.
- The Xavier cross country team's opening meet on Friday, Sept. 10, was extra special as the Falcons kicked off the 2021 season with their 50th consecutive victory, a streak that started on Oct. 19, 2015. That streak hit 56 as the Falcons headed into Saturday's SCC Divisional Championships.
- The Xavier soccer team is unbeaten at 5-0-1 after knocking off Fairfield Prep 3-1 on Tuesday. Prep entered the game 7-0 and ranked first in the GameTimeCT boys soccer poll. Xavier was ranked sixth. The Falcons play Friday night at 7 on the road against Shelton.
- The Xavier football team was ranked No. 8 in the GameTimeCT preseason high school football poll and won its first two games by a combined score of 87-31. The Falcons are now 2-1 with a big game Saturday night at home at 7 p.m. vs. St. Joseph.
Upcoming Alumni Events
Nov. 6: Homecoming Football Game vs. Notre Dame-West Haven, 6 p.m. There is a reception in the Dining Hall at 4 p.m., but due to COVID that part of the event is restricted to the first 100 who reply with an RSVP to a recent invitation by email. Masks are required at the reception. Hors d'oeuvres, wine and beer are served, which makes it an adult-only event.
Nov. 28: The next Mass for the extended community is the Thanksgiving Family Mass. RSVP's will be requested. Watch for an invitation by email.
Dec. 2: SFX and Heritage Society Reception, Griswold Inn, by invitation only. Watch for an invitation by email.
Class of 1976 Reunion Postponed
The Class of 1976 Reunion has been postponed until summer 2022.
Alumni News
Preston Zdrojeski '17 graduated from the Connecticut State Police Academy in ceremonies held at Dunkin Donuts Park in Hartford in late August. Preston is a member of Troop C in Tolland. His father Rob also is a State Trooper and pinned the badge on his son at the graduation ceremonies.
Corey Fagan '07 is a civil engineer for the U.S. Coast Guard. He is a graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.
Connor Dwyer ’19 is a junior at Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business. He is the Director of Analytics for the Fordham baseball team and in March was chosen to be part of the first analytics and player development department in Independent Professional Baseball. He spent the summer working in Florence, KY, for the Florence Y’alls.
In Memoriam
In each monthly newsletter we will remember those in the Xavier community that have passed away that month and others that have come to our attention. We remember:
Stephen G. Cobb, Class of 1967: For the obituary please click HERE.
Robert Tringali, Class of 1974: For the obituary please click HERE.
John D. McKeown, Class of 1978: For the obituary please click HERE.
Richard Michael Shafrick, Class of 1980: For the obituary please click HERE.
Lost And Not Yet Found
In each month's newsletter we will list some alumni for whom we do not have contact information. If you know how to reach them, please have them email [email protected] one or more of the following: phone number, email, address. Thank you. This month's names: Sean Zisk '81, Richard Zipoli '68, Ryan Ziolkowski '91, Joseph Zinkiewicz '82, Michael Zinkiewicz '80, Richard Zawisa '83, Anthony Zasciurinkas '82, Jason Wyer '90, Brendan Wood '78.
Alumni newsletters are archived on our website, xavierhighschool.org, under the Alumni & Giving section. If you know of an alumni who is not getting the newsletter, please have them email [email protected] with their name, address, email address and phone number. You also can email [email protected] with any alumni news or news tips.
Xavier has two websites, xavierhighschool.org, for general school news and content, and xavierfalcons.com for sports content, from schedules and results to team rosters and news.
August 2021 Newsletter
A Message From Our Alumni President
I hope you enjoyed a safe and happy few months as the beginning of the school year closes the summer of 2021. Your alumni committee remained active and sponsored an alumni social on July 18, and as a true mark of success, we had nearly all decades of Xavier alumni represented, and everyone stayed until the end of the event.
We have a great year ahead and I hope you will take an active part. As we commit to bringing alumni together this year, we will sponsor social events and reach as many interests as possible. To that end, on Sunday, Sept. 19, we will have a motorcycle tour beginning and ending at Perkatory Coffee Roasters in Middletown (alumni-owned business). We will meet at 7:30 a.m. for a 50-mile ride, arriving back for coffee at around 9 a.m. You are welcome to ride or join us for coffee. We are open to your ideas and energy, and you are always welcome to let us know your thoughts at [email protected].
-- Brian Farrell '86, Alumni Association President
Our Simplicity Prayer
The Xaverian value for this school year will be “simplicity,” and Brother Philip Revell, C.F.X., has written a prayer to be utilized throughout the 2021-2022 academic year:
“Loving God, look upon us with kindness and draw our hearts to you, that we may treasure your love and goodness above all else. In simplicity of heart and mind keep us in the way of your beloved Son who taught us to seek your Kingdom above all created things. Fill us with the generosity that sees the face of Jesus in all whom we meet. Give us a spirit of generosity to respond to the needs of the poor and afflicted and help us to live simply so that all people may share in the bounty of your creation. Amen.”
Thirty-Eight Years Later ...
Two 1983 grads recently caught up with each other: Paul Kostacopoulos and Michael Lombardo. Kostacopoulos is the head baseball coach at the U.S. Naval Academy and Lombardo is a 1987 Naval Academy graduate. Kostacopoulos will begin his 17th season as the Navy coach in 2022; he is the program’s second-winningest head coach with 481 victories. In 30-plus years as a head coach at the college level he has a record of 985-652-7 (.601). Lombardo's son, who is in high school, was playing in a travel baseball tournament and had games at Navy. Lombardo is an Assistant Vice President at Valkyrie Enterprises, in the Washington, D.C., area.
Around The Campus
More than 100 incoming seniors attended the The 50th Xavier Leadership Institute (XLI). The banners they built to welcome the freshman class hang in the gym. Last week, our freshmen came here for the annual Falcon Blast in which seniors participated. This week orientation for sophomores was Monday, for juniors on Tuesday. Tomorrow (Sept. 1) freshmen and seniors are here. First day of classes for everyone is Thursday (Sept. 2).
Xavier senior Drew Kron represented high school students and student-athletes by speaking at a recent joint press conference between the CIAC, the state's high school sports governing body; and the Connecticut Department of Health. The press conference was to promote vaccinations for all high school students and was attended by many dignitaries who also spoke, including Gov. Ned Lamont and Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz. Part of Kron's message: "To all my fellow student-athletes out there who have not been activated yet, I encourage you to sign up and stay in the game." Kron, 17, who plays football and baseball at Xavier, has already accepted a scholarship to play baseball at the University of Connecticut.
Gabe Chavez '23 has made the U-17 Peru National Soccer Team. Chavez played at Oakwood in Glastonbury and then for an NYCFC program. NYCFC is New York City Football Club, a pro team in MLS (Major League Soccer), which has various youth programs and academies. From there he caught the eye of the soccer federation in Peru and made their U-17 National Team.
After one year of “retirement,” Ms. Jayne Vitale is back. She will be teaching art classes in a part-time roll and moderating the art club. She retired after the 2019-2020 school year after 34 years at Xavier but has returned, a benefit to the school and its students. She impacted a lot of lives in those 34 years. Wrote one person on Facebook after we had written a story in 2020 on her retirement: “Hands down, one of the best souls I have ever encountered!” Always present and always involved in all things Xavier. She has shaped many young men over the years and each of us is better for having her as a teacher and mentor.”
Calendar
Sept. 10: Alumni Golf Classic, Portland Golf Course. ... First football game, vs. Norwich Free Academy, 7 p.m., Larry McHugh Field, Xavier.
Sept. 12: Grandparent's Mass, 10 a.m., reception, 11 a.m., at Xavier (all are welcome; please RSVP to Suzanne Berry at 860-346-7735, Ext. 737, or to [email protected].
In Memoriam
A Few Reminders
July 2021 Newsletter
Remembering Brother Houlihan
This is from a eulogy by Brother Robert J. Green, C.F.X., who was at Xavier from 1979-1985 and is the Director of Xaverian House in Danvers, Mass., where many Xaverian Brothers now reside. "Living with Bob Houlihan was as you'd imagine it to be: not particularly quiet and monastic, but welcoming, and marked by energy and laughter and disagreements and discussions. Houli was never unkind nor a man of few words, and he would have us believe his opinions were most often correct. He loved being with the Brothers, and relished times at home on Orchard Street and at other North Shore sites with family members, neighbors and friends."
Click HERE for Brother Houlihan's obituary.
Walk-A-Thon & Other Campus Happenings
Upgraded Furniture, Thanks To Class Of '21
Each year senior class representatives reach a consensus on a senior gift idea that will help students for years to come. A letter is then sent to all seniors and their parents. Since this was the Class of 2021, the request was for each student to contribute $20.21.
This year the money went toward new furniture to replace the existing furniture that needed upgrading. Due to the generosity of the senior class and the students' parents, there are 17 new chairs in the front foyer and outside the Dining Hall to serve students as a place to study and socialize before and after school. The furniture has power outlets and USB ports.