Summer 2020

MAGAZINE

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On March 13, the normal flow of the school year at De La Salle was interrupted as a result of the Coronavirus.

Lives were changed, students were learning from home and teachers needed to create electronic plans and lessons that would allow our Meteors to continue and finish the 2019-2020 academic year.

Online faculty and staff meetings would need to be held and the development office would need to fundraise electronically while all the events we had planned became virtual.

Life at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. became dramatically different.

Rather than back away from this challenge, the Meteors embraced it with drive and determination.

In true De La Salle fashion, the Meteors were at their best.

Not only did everyone at De La Salle do what they were supposed to, they did more. Much more.

From our maintenance staff conducting a thorough cleaning and sanitization of the campus to daily prayer being offered via Schoology to a Romeo & Juliet Festival that was held via Zoom to members of our faculty and staff driving around the city of Chicago and the suburbs to distribute Class of 2020 yard signs to the 187 young women and men who graduated from De La Salle this year, everyone at our school proved without a doubt what it means to show your mettle!

To our Class of 2020, we wish each of you nothing but the best in your great futures. You are extraordinarily resilient young women and men and we are incredibly proud of you.

In order to support our students and families, De La Salle has established the Meteor Rising Fund – http://www.dls.org/meteorrising.jsp.

Please consider making a gift to ensure the continued educational success of our Meteors. As we support one another, the Meteors will continue to rise and shine!

May God bless you.

St. John Baptist de La Salle, pray for us.

Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.

Live Jesus in Our Hearts, forever!

Fr. Paul Novak, OSMPresidentDe La Salle Institute

DE LA SALLE MAGAZINESummer 2020

PUBLISHER Fr. Paul Novak, OSM

EDITOR Michael K. Walsh

AUTHORS Iris Gist Cochran Michael K. Walsh

PHOTOGRAPHY De La Salle Archives

HR Imaging/Root Studios Brad Hokin:

Glory Days Photography Michael K. Walsh

Cover Photo credits Marcus Carter ’13

PRINTING M&G Graphics

De La Salle Magazine is published three times a year by De La Salle Institute’s

Office for Advancement. The purpose of this publication is to unite the Christian

Brothers, alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and friends together in De La Salle’s

mission of excellence in education. All submissions or comments should be

directed to dmagazine@dls.org. To receive this magazine electronically, please send

an email to dmagazine@dls.org.

De La Salle Institute Campus3434 South Michigan Avenue

Chicago, IL 60616-3898P 312.842.7355 F 312.842.4142

Tolton Adult Literacy Center2235 South Albany Avenue

Chicago, IL 60623P 312.747.3471

www.dls.org

MISSION STATEMENTDe La Salle Institute is an independent Catholic secondary school rooted in the tradition of Christian education begun by St. John Baptist de La Salle. Founded in 1889, its mission has been, and is, to foster a desire for excellence in education. Young people from a variety of ethnic and economic backgrounds are given the opportunity to fully develop their abilities so they may be active, contributing members of our complex, changing society.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chairman Mr. Paul D. McCoy ’68

Vice Chairman Mr. Prentiss J. Jackson ’67

President’s Council Honorable William J. Aukstik ’64Mr. Michael G. Bansley ’53Mr. Michael F. Hickey ’56Mr. James R. Woodrow ’53

MembersMr. George A. Bonomo ’59Mr. Jeffrey J. Bryk ’89Mr. Steven W. Burrows ’91Mr. Victor M. Chavarria ’69Brother Chris Englert, FSCDr. Robert O. Graham ’64Honorable Patrick M. Huels ’67Ms. Sharon R. O’BrienMr. Joseph D. Parente ’84

Mr. Michael J. Passarelli ’90Mr. Frank A. RuffoloMr. Chad N. StraderMr. Michael A. Tadin ’69Mrs. Cathryn P. TaylorMr. Mark A. Tomassini ’88Mr. James A. Vanek ’64

Extollo Educational FoundationBoard of Directors

President Mr. Michael G. Bansley ’53

Vice President Mr. James R. Woodrow ’53

Secretary/Treasurer Mr. Michael F. Hickey ’56

De La Salle Institute Board Of Directors 2019-2020

AcademicsContinuously Learning at De La Salle ...................................4-5Senior Reflections .................................................................... 6-11Graduation 2020 (cover story) .........................................12-13Class of 2020 Takes The Next Step in its Great Future! .. 14-15Principal Schergen ’97 Keeps Meteors on Task ..................... 16De La Salle’s Fantastic Faculty 15 Reach Milestones ............. 16Br. Chris Oddo, FSC, Honored with Prestigious Plaudit ... 17Experience De La Salle! .............................................................. 17

AthleticsHe’s Going To Kansas City…Kansas City, Here He Comes! .......................................................... 18Meteor Women’s Softball Team on the Road to Success ...... 19A Sign of Good Things to Come for the Meteors! ................ 19

DevelopmentThanks to Your Support, We Did It! ...................... 20Meteor Rising Golf Outing ......................................................... 21Zoom with the De La Salle Alumni Association .................... 21Save the Date – De La Salle Alumni Banquet ......................... 21Thank You Parent Association ................................................... 22Newsnotes ..................................................................................... 23In Memoriam ................................................................................ 23

Pictured on cover: Kayla Sanchez ’20; Jack Stewart ’20; Milan Washington ’20; Emily McManus ’20; Ricardo Gomez ’20

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When the Coronavirus pandemic struck in mid-March, De La Salle was more than ready to accept the challenge of moving its learning process for our students from an in-classroom to a remote learning platform.

“We were in a good spot for remote learning due to all of the investment in teacher training and investments that have been made since 2006,” De La Salle Associate Principal for Curriculum and Learning Technology Paul Dirschl said. “All of our students had computers, our E-day (Electronic Learning Day) policy had been in place since 2016, and so remote learning was not new to us.

“Schoology – our learning platform – was in place for teachers to be able to communicate with parents and students through that. We were able to learn from the moment COVID-19 started. We didn’t have to make major adjustments. We were already in position to implement our learning program.

“I thought we were ahead of the state of Illinois. We implemented our program before the state started. That’s a testament to our teachers, parents and students. It was nice to have their support.”

Also playing an integral role in the success of De La Salle’s remote learning program was the flexibility of everyone involved.

“We created a remote learning plan where students can use Fridays for an independent learning day,” Dirschl said. “That was effective for both teachers and students.

“I track data of Schoology usage and interaction between teachers and students increased our average view of daily usage of Schoology. Because of the effectiveness of remote learning, we saw an increase of student participation of 33 percent or higher in Schoology activity.”

Another key element in the success of De La Salle’s remote learning program was the creativity shown by our faculty, staff and students.

Among the innovative approaches used were continued morning and after-school prayer via Schoology, a Romeo & Juliet Festival via Zoom, a birthday celebration for Shakespeare that showcased individual student performances, inductions into the Spanish and French Honor Societies as well as the Thespian Troupe through Zoom, interviews with contemporary authors and poets, creating weather forecast videos as well as fun activities like “Spiritwear Wednesday.”

CONTINUOUSLY LEARNING AT DE LA SALLE

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Dr. Diane Brown, who retired at the end of the 2019-2020 school year after 33 years of service to De La Salle, kept a list of all the creative approaches to continued learning and student activities and provided approximately 40 examples.

“Throughout the remote learning period, the De La Salle faculty and staff exhibited unwavering dedication to the continued education of our students,” Dr. Brown said. “Despite the many difficulties I am sure they faced in their own personal lives, our teachers accepted a monumental challenge to remain connected with students so that students were able to complete their academic requirements through remote learning.

“Our teachers were relentless and unstoppable. Instead of giving up, they were determined to take our technological capabilities out for a spin and see what they could do with them. Instead of teaching in a room, they were teaching on Zoom, YouTube and other platforms.

“Every day, I continued to be amazed by the degree of creativity, ingenuity and collaboration that is characteristic of our Lasallian community of educators. I am grateful for their efforts, and I am so

very proud of each and every one of them. What they were able to accomplish during the 4th quarter is just another example that De La Salle Institute provides a secondary educational experience that is second-to-none.”

Along with Dr. Brown, Dirschl also was impressed with the quality of work provided by the faculty and students.

“It’s a testament to the teachers and students that we still had weekly meetings, still had division meetings, still had faculty mentorship and still had faculty sharing ideas,” Dirschl said. “It’s a testament to our faculty and their work ethic and collaboration.

“It’s really amazing with all the things we did until the end of the year. It was incredible with all the work that was done.”

“Throughout the remote learning period, the De La Salle faculty and staff exhibited unwavering dedication to the continued education of our students.”

– Dr. Diane Brown, Retired De La Salle Principal

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Alexandra Brist ’20 Loyola University – Chicago Frances Xavier Warde School and Old St. Patrick Parish

What have the last four years at De La Salle meant to you?From my first shadow day to my last day of (virtual) school, I felt supported as a young person and challenged as an Honors student. I enjoyed the rigor of my Honors and AP (Advanced Placement) classes and the meaningful relationships I was able to make with my teachers. As a student who genuinely likes to learn and is excited about school, I appreciated how passionate my teachers were about their subjects.

I enjoyed being involved with the Admissions team and helping out at De La Salle events because I truly believe in our school’s mission - “to foster a desire for excellence in education” and give opportunity to a diverse group of young people. I am proud to be part of the graduating Class of 2020, an alumna of such an excellent institution, and a member of the supportive Meteor family.

What does it mean to you to be a De La Salle graduate?As a graduate of De La Salle, I feel prepared for my journey at Loyola and excited to continue enriching the mind, body, and spirit throughout my life. I feel proud to have graduated from an institution that values students as names and not numbers. As an alumna of the co-ed De La Salle and having spent one year at De La Salle’s single-gender campus at Lourdes Hall, I can say that I have experienced De La Salle in multiple ways. I was able to appreciate both the coed and single-gender educations and benefited from both experiences. I can say that I am a stronger, smarter, and more confident young woman having attended De La Salle Institute. I credit my wonderful teachers, counselor, and the administration for their consistent support and passion in helping young people succeed.

What was your De La Salle experience like?My high school career has been a period of growth like no other time in my life. I was able to learn a lot about myself through my schoolwork, classes, studying abroad in the UK and Spain, and the decisions I made day to day. Each day was a lesson, and not the kind you learn in class. Each finished homework assignment was a testament to my motivation. Each morning in Mr. (Tom) Wegesin’s AP Calculus class was a welcome challenge. Each afternoon in Mr. (Dan) Dowling’s Honors Anatomy & Physiology class served as clarity for my passion for medicine. I found that every experience will be different, but each one will serve a purpose.

How has De La Salle prepared you for your future?Without the help of my teachers, counselor, and the administration, I would not be the person that I am today. I had the privilege to help out with numerous De La Salle events and many open houses. Through these events, I was able to cultivate my public speaking skills and foster relationships with benefactors and professionals that led to future internships and other career opportunities. De La Salle has not only enriched my academics and prepared me for a career, but also enriched my spirit. I appreciate the education of the mind and spirit that I received at De La Salle and find that De La Salle students are much more well-rounded for this reason.

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Christopher Considine ’20

Loyola University – ChicagoSt. Bruno Parish and Grade School

What did you like most about De La Salle?I loved the community atmosphere of De La Salle the most. When I was there, it felt like the entire student body and teachers were a huge family. I felt comfortable going to any teacher to ask for advice or help with subject material. The teachers at ’D’ have always been there for their students in any way they have needed. The teachers were willing to put in extra time before and after school to assist their students which sets them apart from other schools.

What does it mean to you to be a De La Salle graduate?I have always known that I wanted to attend De La Salle Institute. ’D’ has been a part of my family for years. My two uncles graduated from De La Salle, along with my twin brothers in 2015. My grandfather is an assistant athletic director and assistant varsity basketball coach and has been for over 20 years. Being a graduate from ’D’ means the world to me because I was able to carry on the family tradition at ’D’.

What have the last four years at De La Salle meant to you?De La Salle has been my home for the last four years. These last four years have meant a lot to me because ’D’ has been the place of my personal growth. ’D’ has been a big part of making me the man I am today. The relationships I have built with teachers and friends will last a lifetime; I am so thankful for that.

What was your De La Salle experience like?My De La Salle experience was one of growth in mind, body and spirit. I learned so much during my time at ’D’ including learning to manage my time and be self-sufficient. I have matured a lot over these past four years, and I am very thankful for the support and guidance the staff offered in this process.

What will you miss the most about De La Salle?I will miss knowing everybody in my class and being a part of the community. There was a sense of comfort and belonging that I developed during my four years. I know that I will always be a part of the De La Salle community, but I will miss going there every day.

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Isaiah Hernandez ’20

Inspiration Academy (FL)Carlos Fuentes Charter UNO School

What was your De La Salle experience like?My De La Salle experience was everything I could ask for. The education was the right pace for me, and the teachers were always more than willing to help in any way I needed. The class sizes varied and that was very beneficial because I learned how large and small classes function. The friends I made were amazing, and throughout the four years, I was able to meet many new people each year.

Two major changes came to De La Salle during my short four years. The school became co-ed my sophomore year, and the gym and (athletic) field outside were renovated my junior year. Every year at De La Salle was so different, and yet they were all very memorable. I can easily say that I don’t think I would have had a better experience at any other school.

What does it mean to you to be a De La Salle graduate?Being a De La Salle graduate is very important to me. There is a pride that comes with the achievement of graduating from an institution like De La Salle. The Catholic education is more rigorous and is held to a higher standard than other forms of education. There is an aura of prestige that comes with completing the four years of challenging work, but it is all the more satisfying knowing I was able to end on the same good note I started on when I arrived.

How have the last four years at De La Salle impacted you?The last four years have meant so much to me. Going into high school, I had no idea what to expect, but it was better than I thought it would be. At first, it is overwhelming, but after settling in it becomes a place you can look forward to every day.

I met so many people who have influenced me who I never would have gotten the chance to meet if not for De La Salle. I will cherish all the ups and downs that I had in these last four years which went by faster than I thought was possible.

What did you like most about De La Salle?The element I enjoyed most about De La Salle was the family environment. It felt like everyone mattered, because they did. It is a relatively smaller school, but that just means that every student is able to be individually attended to. I never felt like just a number at De La Salle; instead, I felt like the teaching staff really cared about my personal success.

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Nina Penny ’20

Indiana TechSt. Walter Parish and Grade School

What does it mean to you to be a De La Salle graduate?Being a student at De La Salle has definitely been a positive aspect in my life. If I did not attend the Institute, I would not be in the place I am right now. While a student there, I was able to not only receive a top-of-the-line education, but also a great overall experience as a student-athlete.

Being a part of the volleyball team especially after this season have been some of my best times at De La Salle. I have made memories inside and outside the classroom that I would never trade for anything.

Which teachers had the greatest impact on you and why?The teachers who have impacted me the most are the ones who coached me as well. Coach (Anna) Marassa has taught me the importance of what it means to be on a team. She has also instilled in me the idea that academics come before any sport. Over these four years, she definitely helped me to become the student-athlete I am today.

My Social Justice teacher and JV volleyball coach, Mr. (Michael) Dieter has also impacted me. While in class, I learned how important it is to form my own opinions on issues, especially during this moment in time. For the Honors Capstone Project, Mr. Dieter was also able to be my advisor. The skills I learned in my Social Justice class will absolutely affect how the next four years of my life will go in college.

What have the last four years at De La Salle meant to you?The last four years have been my greatest so far. I have been a part of a Lasallian community that has both allowed me to grow mentally and spiritually. Whether it be challenging/rewarding classes or retreats, De La Salle has given me the opportunity to grow in both of these aspects.

What did you like most about De La Salle?My favorite component of De La Salle is how diverse the student body is. After playing volleyball at different schools these past years, I truly appreciate the differences in backgrounds students at De La Salle have to offer.

What will you miss the most about De La Salle?I will undoubtedly miss the teachers and staff at De La Salle. They are some of the most welcoming people I have ever met. Another group of people I will miss are my teammates. I have never been a part of such a great team that worked so well together and I will never forget them.

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Alanna Saucedo ’20

Saint Louis UniversitySt. Therese at St. Barbara Elementary School and Parish

How has De La Salle prepared you for your future? De La Salle has provided me with a highly competitive education that will contribute to my major in college (Investigative and Medical Sciences). Mr. (Dan) Dowling’s Anatomy and Physiology class was one of my favorites, considering that I will be entering the medical field in my future. While our year got cut short, we were able to dissect a cow heart, and it was one of the coolest experiences ever. De La Salle has shaped my character, not only academically, but also spiritually. They prepared us to be strong, confident leaders, because we entered to learn, and now we leave to serve.

What have the last four years at De La Salle meant to you? De La Salle means the world to me. I am so grateful that I chose to come to ’D’ four years ago, because I know if I had the chance to come back, I would do it all over again. My time here has allowed me to grow and flourish into an outgoing and confident person. I know that I will always be a Meteor in my heart, and there aren’t even adequate words to describe how much this school has done for me.

What was your De La Salle experience like? I could not wait to go to school every day. As soon as I walked into the building, I knew that I was ready for a new adventure. I didn’t know if I was going to be asked to build a clay sculpture, or if I was going to have to make a water clock, and only the day would tell. It’s hard to summarize four years of dedication and support into one paragraph. My time at ’D’ was full of memories that I will cherish and hold on to forever. I am beyond blessed that I had the opportunity to attend ’D’ because it was a genuine experience that I will never forget.

What will you miss the most about De La Salle? Honestly, I don’t think I can pick only one thing I will miss the most. I definitely will miss the teachers and staff, but the beauty of the technology we have makes it easy for me to keep in touch with them by sending a quick email. I will also miss my unique and fearless classmates, who have given me countless laughs and endless help with homework. And of course, I’m going to miss the food. While the legendary buffalo nuggets didn’t make it back for my senior year, I’m definitely going to miss the pizza with fries and a cup of cheese.

11SUMMER 2020

Joshua Thornton ’20

North Carolina Agricultural and Technological UniversityFrances Xavier Warde Grade School

What does it mean to you to be a De La Salle graduate?To be a De La Salle graduate means to be a part of a select community that shares many of the same experiences and trials and tribulations endured to become a better student, person and Meteor. I have had multiple uncles who attended De La Salle years ago. To know that I was able to graduate from the same school they did is one of my greatest accomplishments. Some aren’t given the opportunity I was and I made sure to make the most of it.

How did De La Salle prepare you for your future?De La Salle helped me prepare for my future in a multitude of ways. The connections I have made with teachers have propelled me to heights that have helped me become the person I am today. Seeing a school with so much diversity among our students also helps you to understand everybody’s different walks of life and you can learn to appreciate the things that make people different. The teachers at De La Salle wanted to see me succeed.

What will you miss most about De La Salle?The first thing that comes to mind is the school pizza. I lived on that pizza for four years, so it will truly be hard to say goodbye. But on a serious note, I think I will most miss the interactions I had with peers and teachers. I can’t even put into words how the people you will meet will shape your high school experience for the better. High school is so much more than just constant schoolwork and you are able to find who you are and who you want to be for the rest of your life. High school goes by just like that, so take on each day being appreciative of the position you are in, and try to enjoy every bit you can.

What advice would you give to the members of the Class of 2024?To the incoming members of the Class of 2024, the first and most important thing is to always be yourself. If you stay true to who you are, success will be right around the corner. Everybody is going to tell you this, but it is the truth; high school goes by extremely fast, so make sure you make the most of your experience. Your first year of high school is arguably the most important. The grades you get, the friends you meet, and the teachers you make connections with will help you throughout the rest of your time at De La Salle. I will leave off by saying to you all that you and only you control your destiny, and there will be people along the way to help you get to where you need to go.

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1. The Perez family is doubly proud as both Sebastian ’20 and Isabella ’20 are now De La Salle graduates. Sister Olivia (pictured far right) will graduate from our school in 2022. Their dad, Hector (pictured far left), is a member of our Class of 1990.

2. De La Salle head football coach Mike Boehm ’92 and his wife, Tracy, our school nurse, join their son, Matt ’20, for a family picture.

3. Matt Dixon ’20 happily receives his diploma from his dad, Bill, a 1995 De La Salle graduate.4. Michael Passarelli ’20, who graduated with Honors, poses with his mom and dad, Michael Passarelli,

who is a member of our Class of 1990.5. Mia Tolbert ’20 shares a beautiful moment with her family.6. The parents of Aidan Patino ’20 are justifiably thrilled for their son, an Honors graduate.7. Alexia Garcia…How do you feel about becoming a member of De La Salle’s Class of 2020?8. Abari Davis ’20…National Honor Society member; Chicago Cubs scholar; soon-to-be University of Michigan student.

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9. Jesus Cervantes ’20 proudly displays his De La Salle diploma.10. Marco Cruz ’20 is joined by his parents, Juan and Josie L’77.11. The family of Jamey Duncan-Whitt ’20 is very proud of their De La Salle graduate.12. Lake Forest College is the next destination for Kayla Roman-Flores ’20.13. Angela Lunn ’20 and her parents, Jim and Stephanie L’91, share a special moment.14. Does it seem like Ed Grzenia ’20 is happy to be a De La Salle alum? 15. Honors graduate Marc Rhymes ’20 will attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the fall.16. Jack Bechina ’20 – Future Saint Louis University Billiken!17. Not only is Dyana Davis ’20 an NHS member, she will be an Illinois State University Redbird in the fall!18. City of De La Salle co-Mayor Phillip Hunter and his family reflect on his many accomplishments at our school.

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The members of the Class of 2020 will be both near and far in terms of their collegiate destinations.

For those who have chosen to travel, we will have Meteors in Toronto, Seattle, Southern California, Washington, DC, Las Vegas, Atlanta and Greensboro, NC.

Thankfully, we’ll also have some Meteors closer to home in Bloomington-Normal, Champaign, Peoria, Carbondale, Romeoville, River Forest, Lake Forest and Chicago.

On behalf of everyone at De La Salle, we wish the 187 young women and men who are our Class of 2020 the best of everything as they pursue their great futures. We have every confidence you will be amazing!

God bless, good luck and please keep in touch! We’re proud of you!

Go Meteors!

CLASS OF 2020 TAKES THE NEXT STEP IN ITS GREAT FUTURE!

15SUMMER 2020

Alabama A&M University American University Arizona State University Barry University Bradley University Clark Atlanta University Columbia College Chicago Concordia University Wisconsin Denison University DePaul University Dominican University East Carolina University Elmhurst College Florida Atlantic University Grand Canyon University Illinois Institute of Technology Illinois State University Illinois Wesleyan University Indiana Tech University Indiana University Bloomington Iowa State University Jackson State University

Lake Forest College Lenoir Rhyne University Lewis University Loyola University Chicago Marquette University Millikin University Monmouth College North Carolina A&T University Northern Illinois University Palm Beach Atlantic University Pratt Institute Purdue University Roosevelt University Saint Louis University Saint Xavier UniversitySavannah College of Arts & DesignSouthern Illinois University at Carbondale Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville St. Mary’s University of Minnesota Syracuse University United States Marine CorpsUniversity of Alabama

University of California – Irvine University of Illinois at Chicago University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Indianapolis University of Iowa University of Kansas University of KentuckyUniversity of Miami (FL)University of Michigan University of Missouri-Columbia University of Nebraska-Lincoln University of Nevada-Las Vegas University of TampaUniversity of TorontoUniversity of WashingtonValparaiso University Western Illinois University Western Kentucky University Western Michigan UniversityWinston-Salem State University

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Wanting to be proactive as he begins his duties guiding his alma mater, De La Salle principal Tom Schergen ’97 has created two task forces involving various members of the school community.

The COVID-19 planning task force consists of 22 people, ranging from teachers, administrators, students and staff. That task force is divided into Health, Wellness and Safety, Academics, Facilities, Student Life and Spirit and Development and Enrollment.

The plan is for the subcommittees to meet every other week with the task forces meeting on a weekly basis.

The second task force is 15 people strong in regards to making De La Salle a more inclusive environment with faculty, staff, parents and students serving. There are also scheduled to be subcommittees with this task force.

“The goal of this task force is to look at the entire environment and to come up with an action plan to include our inclusive environment,” Schergen said.

“Based upon the current situation that we are in, we want to identify the areas we need to look at and make sure we are ready to start the school year. Many people will have a hand in making sure that we are ready.”

Schergen is confident that both task forces will indeed accomplish all of their intended goals given the time to do so.

“We started both with surveys from stakeholders for students and parents to provide input to what we need to have and what we need to do for the school year,” Schergen said. “We brought in a lot of people with a lot of expertise to create action plans.”

PRINCIPAL SCHERGEN ’97 KEEPS METEORS ON TASK

Tom Schergen ’97

De La Salle congratulates the following 15 faculty and staff members who celebrated milestone anniversaries at the conclusion of the 2019-20 school year.

Honored for five years were Gino Bruno ’77; John Grubisich ’08; Christopher Hall; Kenya Madison-Gabler and Ania Ray.

Recognized for 10 years was Tracy Aldaz-Brewer.

Feted for 15 years were Bethany Costello-Stebelton; Paul Granat ’92; Angelica Guzman and Norma Ramos.

Lauded for 20 years were Eric Crosby; Antonio Maldonado Jr. and Fred Muehleman.

Tom White celebrated his 25th year while Nick Colletti celebrated his 30th year.

We thank all of these wonderful educators for their commitment to De La Salle over the years and wish them great joy and success in their futures!

DE LA SALLE’S FANTASTIC FACULTY 15

REACH MILESTONESNick Colletti

Antonio Maldonado Jr.

Tom White

Eric Crosby

Fred Muehleman

17SUMMER 2020

Br. Chris Oddo, FSC, Honored with Prestigious PlauditCongratulations to Br. Chris Oddo, FSC, who was chosen a recipient of the 2020 Outstanding Educator Award from the McKinley Park Civic Association (MPCA).

Br. Chris was one of eight educators lauded during the MPCA’s 49th Annual Community Celebration.

Br. Chris, who serves our school as its Director of Computer Services, began his teaching career at De La Salle during the 1970-71 school year. After teaching at other schools, Br. Chris returned to De La Salle in 1990 in his current role. He has spent a total of 31 years at De La Salle.

Thank you, Br. Chris, for your exemplary dedication and commitment to the students, faculty and staff of De La Salle! We are very proud of you!

EXPERIENCE DE LA SALLE!Do you have a family member in sixth,

seventh or eighth grade?

Would you like to visit and learn more about De La Salle?

You can!De La Salle Director of Admissions John Brogan and his staff are preparing to welcome visitors this fall.

“We plan on personalized open house experiences for our families,” Brogan said. “We’ll also conduct individual tours of the building.

“Families can meet with the administration and teachers, see our classrooms and learn more about our academic offerings as well as our extracurricular offerings. The experience will be tailored to match their interests that they indicated on the registration form.”

For more information about De La Salle Admissions, please contact John Brogan at (312) 842-7355 ext. 147 or broganj@dls.org.

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A phone call to Mom.

That’s how Meteor student-athlete Ben Hernandez ’20 began to share the good news when he was selected in the second round (41st overall) by the Kansas City Royals in the Major League Baseball Draft in June.

“I called my mom when I found out the Royals were going to pick me,” Hernandez said. “I called my mom and she was crying and I was crying. She said, ’I’m so happy for you.’

“She got home and she hugged me. It was great to have some good news this year. It’s a big weight off my chest.”

In all, the Royals drafted six players, four of whom are pitchers. Of the four pitchers, Hernandez is the only high school player chosen by Kansas City.

“I had a very good feeling about Kansas City,” Hernandez said. “They showed a lot of interest in me and it’s a great organization; it’s like a family.

“Their GM (general manager Dayton Moore) called me and said that he would take care of me. I’ll be in good hands. My mom is very comfortable with the organization. My mom is happy that I’m going to a great organization.”

So is Meteor head baseball coach Chris Hall.

“This is awesome,” Hall said. “I love it. I had the same dreams as a kid to play pro ball. Ben’s a hardworking kid and he has a chance to realize his dream. That’s great for someone who has put in all that work.

“Ben’s a dedicated kid and he has a passion for baseball. He’s a great teammate and always willing to help. He’s a humble, willing kid…Ben’s going to a great organization in Kansas City.”

As for the realization of his dream, Hernandez said that it hasn’t sunken in yet.

“Not at all,” Hernandez said. “I still think it’s not real that I got drafted by the Kansas City Royals and a Major League Baseball team.

“I was just a regular high school student then I was signing a Major League Baseball contract with the Royals and I’m able to help my family.”

With the Royals being in the American League Central, they typically make three visits each season to Chicago to play the White Sox in a ballpark that’s about four blocks west of De La Salle.

What would pitching in your hometown be like, Ben?

“That would not be a good game for the Sox,” Hernandez said with a laugh. “That would be awesome 100 percent. I’d love to have everyone there.

“I played on that field three times at ’D.’ It would be great to play there. To play in an MLB park in my home city and state would be great.”

Congratulations, Ben! Best of luck in Kansas City! Everyone at De La Salle is very proud of you!

Athletics

Ben Hernandez ’20, De La Salle head baseball coach Chris Hall

HE’S GOING TO KANSAS CITY…KANSAS CITY, HERE HE COMES!

19SUMMER 2020

Meteor Women’s Softball Team on the Road to SuccessDe La Salle congratulates Francesca (Frankie) Castagna as she has been chosen the new head coach for the Meteors varsity women’s softball program.

Castagna, a member of De La Salle’s Class of 2012, had spent the last two seasons as an assistant softball coach at her alma mater.

In 2019, the Meteors finished with an overall record of 14-12 and won the Illinois High School Association’s Class 3A Evergreen Park Regional championship before falling in the Class 3A Nazareth Academy Sectional semifinals.

In 2018, De La Salle won the IHSA Class 3A Lindblom Regional title before a loss in the Class 3A Lemont Sectional semifinals ended its season.

As a student-athlete at De La Salle, Castagna was a four-year member of the women’s basketball and women’s softball programs while also excelling in the classroom as a member of the National Honor Society.

As a senior, she garnered All-Girls Catholic Athletic Conference accolades in both softball and basketball. During her playing career at De La Salle, Castagna was a four-year varsity performer in softball and a two-year varsity athlete in basketball.

“I am very grateful to be able to come back to my alma mater and coach the game that I love,” Castagna said. “I am extremely excited to be given the opportunity to be the varsity softball head coach.

“It’s an amazing opportunity that I have been given to continue to grow the game and to pass along my experiences and knowledge to these young women.”

Best of luck, Frankie, guiding our women’s softball program! Everyone at De La Salle is very proud of you!

De La Salle Institute proudly announces that 20 young women and men from its Class of 2020 have chosen where they will further their educations while also participating in intercollegiate athletics next year.

These Meteors and their families were honored during a ceremony held in the school’s Hilton Commons.

The student-athletes recognized are:

Hockey – Gabe Galvez (Robert Morris University);

Softball – Erianna Claudio (Triton College); Kamryn Gonzalez (La Sierra University); Alyssa Luna (St. Thomas University – Florida);

Baseball – Matthew Boehm (Lewis University); Jeremy Figueroa (Heartland Community College); Ben Hernandez (University of Illinois at Chicago); Isaiah Hernandez (Inspiration Academy); Lee Hodges (Morton College); William LePretre (Millikin University);

Football & Baseball – Michael Passarelli (Illinois Wesleyan University);

Football – Matthew Byrnes (Iowa Western Community College); Jamari Johnson (Eastern Illinois University); Taron Dabney

(University of Indianapolis); Devonne Phams (Concordia University – Wisconsin);

Football & Wrestling – David Ortiz (Elmhurst College);

Girls Volleyball – Nina Penny (Indiana Tech); Nyiah Penny (Indiana Tech);

Boys Soccer – Cristian Granados (Lewis University); Manny Rodriguez (Saint Xavier University).

“On behalf of everyone at De La Salle, I would like to congratulate these Meteors on their excellence both in the classroom and in the athletic arena,” De La Salle athletic director Tom White said. “These young women and men have displayed a true commitment to succeeding in everything they do.

“They have set goals for themselves – academically as well as athletically – that they desired to reach and they have done just that. We could not be prouder of our Meteors for everything they have accomplished and we wish them the best in their great futures.”

Well done, Meteors!

Front: Devonne Phams, Jeremy Figueroa, Gabe Galvez, Alyssa Luna, Erianna Claudio, Nyiah Penny, Nina Penny, Manny Rodriguez. Back: Lee Hodges, Matthew Byrnes, Taron Dabney, Jamari Johnson, Michael Passarelli, Ben Hernandez, Matthew Boehm, William LePretre, Isaiah Hernandez, Cristian Granados. Not Pictured with Group: Kamryn Gonzalez, David Ortiz

A SIGN OF GOOD THINGS TO COME FOR THE METEORS!

20 D MAGAZINE

Thanks to Your Support, We Did It!The academic year at De La Salle Institute ended quite differently due to the COVID-19 pandemic! However, we stood strong and brave in the midst of this pandemic and watched as the world tried to save lives, find a cure and even a vaccine. We learned to be responsible, empathetic and safe.

The pandemic forced us to make many changes since March 13th. Because of COVID-19 and the circumstances surrounding it, many things changed dramatically in our world and at De La Salle. One thing, however, that has remained constant is the innovative Lasallian education provided to the young women and men attending De La Salle.

We were blessed to have an advanced remote learning platform that we used during the extended school closure. Students successfully completed the 2019-2020 academic year at home during this unprecedented time. Our teachers utilized their creativity in keeping our Meteors as engaged online as they would typically do in their classrooms. Many of our teachers used other software for virtual class meetings. School days started and ended with prayers.

Our main focus was on “continued education” for our students and graduation for our seniors, the Class of 2020. When the school year ended, members of our faculty and staff drove around Chicago and the surrounding suburbs to distribute Class of 2020 yard signs to the 187 young women and men who graduated from De La Salle. We are very proud of their accomplishments!

To protect our staff and help with the COVID-19 containment, De La Salle staff worked remotely when possible. The Advancement team worked in remote locations and came together in weekly Zoom meetings. The cancellation and loss of the annual D-Final Event as well as the postponement of other revenue-generating events, such as the DLS Golf Classic had a dramatic effect on our fundraising efforts.

We continued to share updates on our website and social media outlets. We found new and creative ways of engaging our alumni and friends in a virtual manner. We conducted a successful super raffle event as well as a virtual silent auction. We hosted alumni Zoom meetings to keep in touch with our alumni here and across

the country. As we grappled with the impact of this pandemic, De La Salle’s educational community continued to provide support and learn from each other.

De La Salle’s alumni and friends recognize the importance and value of our Lasallian mission of education and how it is carried out with steadfast dedication, not only for its students, but also for the community and the future good of the country. The ongoing support of our benefactors is an important reason why the school continues to flourish and make a difference in the lives of so many young women and men.

We need to remember all the wonderful things that happened before March 13th — an academic year filled with new learning experiences, many accomplishments in academics, sports, fine arts and role models. Thanks to your support, we did it! We remain grateful for your investment in De La Salle and the future of our Meteors.

We miss you all and look forward to seeing everyone in the new academic year. Please stay safe and be well.

Have You Considered a Planned Gift to De La Salle?By naming De La Salle in your will, you are contributing to the future generations of young men and women that will benefit from your vision and generosity for those seeking a Catholic high school education.

To find out more, please call De La Salle Director of Development, Iris Gist Cochran, at (312) 842-7355 ext. 152 or email her at cochrani@dls.org.

21SUMMER 2020

Join us at the 2020 Meteor Rising Golf Outing to benefit the young women and men of De La Salle!

Saturday, September 26, 2020Cardinal Creek Golf Club, 615 S. Dixie Hwy., Beecher, IL

For more information, please contact De La Salle Special Event Manager Carl Willingham ’99 at (312) 842-7355 ext. 146 or willinghamc@dls.org.

Go Meteors!

Attend a De La Salle Alumni Association Attend a De La Salle Alumni Association Zoom Meeting!Zoom Meeting!Please join us every third Thursday of the month at 6 pm for the De La Salle Alumni Association Zoom meeting. Information will be made available prior to the meeting as to how to join us.

For more information, please contact De La Salle’s Director of Development, Iris Gist Cochran, at (312) 842-7355 ext. 152 or cochrani@dls.org.

Find out what’s going on at De La Salle!Reconnect with former classmates!Learn about some fascinating topics!

See you at the Zoom meeting!

Meetings will take place at 6 pm on August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19 and December 17 in 2020.

SAVE-THE-DATEThe 124th Annual Alumni Banquet on

Friday, October 2, is going virtual!Sing the fight song! Reconnect with classmates! Applaud the Honor Key recip-

ient! Contribute to the class gift! Have a fun and memorable evening!

For more information, please contact De La Salle Special Event Manager Carl Willingham ’99 at (312) 842-7355 ext. 146 or willinghamc@dls.org.

Go Meteors!

22 D MAGAZINE

THANK YOU PARENT ASSOCIATIONDe La Salle Institute’s Parent Association had a busy fall season filled with activities like Ricobene’s Night, Portillo’s Night and the Sip-N-Paint Event. These were some fun-filled events during the past academic year.

THANK YOU, Parent Association for an amazing, but challenging 2020! On March 13th, the normal flow of the school year at De La Salle stopped as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our students learned from home through a remote learning program to complete the 2019-2020 academic year. The Parent Association had to cancel its spring events. Your service and participation to De La Salle’s Parent Association has truly been a blessing to our Meteors and De La Salle Institute.

Thanks to all De La Salle parents for your continued support of the Parent Association activities and events. The vibrant parent spirit at De La Salle just keeps getting stronger, as evidenced by the attendance at our events as well as the relative ease with which we gather volunteers when needed. We are sure this will continue next year and we urge all parents to get involved in our lively school community.

Our plans for the next academic year are to be a thriving source of support for the school and a highly interactive parent/guardian organization with emphasis on Education, Recruitment, Fundraising and Community. Many of the activities and events will be conducted virtually as we are living in a new normal.

Have a safe, healthy and happy summer!

For more information on the Parent Association, please contact De La Salle’s Director of Development, Iris Gist Cochran, at (312) 842-7355 ext. 152 or cochrani@dls.org.

Have a safe, healthy and happy summer!

2019-2020 PARENT ASSOCIATION BOARD

Marilyn Hunter President

Josie Cruz Vice President

Damika Davis Treasurer

Cynthia Johnson Secretary

Lee Ann Eiland Freshman Class Rep

Felicia Fuller Pitre Sophomore Class Rep

Andrea Horton Junior Class Rep

Genna Ruiz Senior Class Rep

Chinetta Foster Member-at-Large

Lori Deighan Member-at-Large

Christina Castro Member-at-Large

23SUMMER 2020

1963Dr. Willie Mack is the Interim Superintendent of the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County. He lives in Oak Park, IL. His email address is willie.mack@cookcountyil.gov.

1968Thomas Cech works in the manufacturing industry as a technical trainer. He calls Champaign, IL home and his email address is tcech@plastipak.com.

1970James Teeter is a Vice President of Product Development in the electronics industry. He resides in Portland, OR and his email address is jamesrteeter@gmail.com.

1972We extend a heartfelt thank you to Tom Kukuk who was able to locate some of his classmates.

Kukuk, who lives in Minneapolis, can be contacted at takukuk@aol.com.

Here is some of the information he shared with us.

John Dyrkacz lives in Webster City, IA. His email address is chisox2525@yahoo.com.

Robert Fischer resides in Dwight, IL.

John Franks lives in Palos Hills, IL. His email address is irishg2@juno.com.

Ronald Gajewski lives in Denton, TX.

Anthony Garrett resides in Evanston, IL.

Andrew Grygorcewicz is a Chicago resident. His email is agrygor@yahoo.com.

Robert Lanie resides in Acton, CA. His email address is boblanie@yahoo.com.

1976Robert Dickens is a regional product trainer in the software industry. He lives in Las Vegas, NV and his email address is REDickens5@aol.com.

1979Tom Grubisich is a loan officer for Pacor Mortgage. He resides in Oak Forest, IL and his email address is tomg@pacormortgage.com.

1991Mark McInerney works in the field of aviation in counter terrorism. His email address is markmack34@aol.com.

1993Derroll Taylor is a manager in the field of logistics and a Chicago resident. His email address is derroll.taylor.jr@gmail.com.

2001Raymond Moran is a photographer and electrical technician. He resides in Burnsville, MN and his email address is rmoraniii@gmail.com.

2003Sean Brinker is an internal auditor in the banking industry. A Chicago resident, his email address is sbrinker1985@gmail.com.

2006Martice Ferrell is a driver in the transportation industry and lives in Calumet City, IL. His email address is Marte017@aol.com.

Rebecca Weaver is a marketing coordinator and calls Long Beach, CA home. Her email address is rw3021@gmail.com.

2008Sarah Therriault is a school counselor and lives in Mount Sterling, IL. Her email address is sarahtherriault1215@gmail.com.

2011Mary DeBartolo works in the sports industry and lives in Chicago. Her email address is mdebartolo93@gmail.com.

2013Khalfani King is a Junior Investment Analyst in the field of finance. He lives in Harrisburg, PA and his email address is khaliking18@gmail.com.

2015Herman Delgado is a forklift operator and resides in South Holland, IL. His email address is hdmunos708@gmail.com.

Lourdes 1970Susan Rutkowski is a retired school administrator and lives in Mokena, IL. Her email address is susanrutkowski2@gmail.com.

NEWSNOTES

Marshall BlakeOtto Boehm ’41Mary Lou BukowskiPhillip Cooper ’65William Czubernat ’78Patrick Kilmartin ’54

Mercedes Kouba L’58James Kozicki ’60Lance Krajacic ’55Daniel Krydynski ’55Joseph Langhamer ’53Evelyn Lesniewski L’45

Raymond McCormick ’54John Posluszny ’60John Scelonge ’67Patrick Woods ’43Richard Wyszynski ’50

IN MEMORIAMDe La Salle Institute extends its deepest sympathies to the families of the following De La Salle and Lourdes alumni and friends who have recently passed away:

Eternal rest grant onto them, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

St. John Baptist De La Salle, pray for us. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us. Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

24 D MAGAZINE

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PAIDPermit No. 3092

Chicago, IL

Address Service Requested

Office for Advancement3434 S. Michigan Ave.Chicago, Illinois 60616-3898312.842.7355

Parents: If this is addressed to your son or daughter and he or she no longer resides there, please contact De La Salle’s Office for Advancement by phone or with the enclosed envelope so that we may update our records.

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All dates are subject to change. Please see website www.dls.org for latest info.