Dear Bishop Noll alumni, parents, and friends,

With each year that I have been here at Bishop Noll, time has flown more and more quickly. As we once again plan our Commencement ceremony and Baccalaureate Mass to celebrate this year’s graduating seniors, it is

with both joy and sadness that I prepare to usher my 5th class from BNI out into the possibilities that await them. Having seen so many of these young men and women grow throughout their high school career, I am so proud to see them firm on their feet, prepared for the future, and making choices that will bring them great opportunities! College acceptances abound for them, both near and far, at Catholic universities, such as University of Dayton, St. Xavier, Marquette, St. Ambrose, DePaul, Marian, St. Mary’s of Notre Dame, and Loyola; and at small and large public and private universities, such as Purdue University, Indiana University, University of Illinois, Butler University, University of West Florida, Bellarmine University, Rose-Hulman, American Academy of Art, and Valparaiso University. Last year’s graduating class earned over $4.5 million in college scholarships; I anticipate the same success with this class!

In addition to our amazing class of 2013, BNI has other accomplishments to tout for this year. One of our most recent highlights was the Honors Night honor society induction ceremony. Not only did we induct very carefully selected students into the National Honor Society, but we also inducted students into five additional honor societies! Bishop Noll now welcomes students into the National Business Honor Society, the Quill and Scroll Society (for journalists), the Tri-M National Music Honor Society, the National French Honor Society (Société Honoraire de Français) and the National Chinese Honor Society (CLASSK12). In seventeen years in education, it was a first for me to not only attend a six-society induction ceremony, but to also have the privilege of addressing the honorees and attendees. It was an amazing night!

Continuing to highlight our academic highlights, I will share with you another BNI first! This year, we have tweaked a long-held tradition—to honor the Top Ten seniors at a special dinner and honor ceremony for each student’s influential teacher of choice. This year, we will celebrate and honor a slightly different group; while still at the top of their class, this group of students had to have earned a 4.0 GPA or above to be included in this elite group of Scholars with Distinction. By changing the criteria for all honorees to earn a 4.0 or above, we open up the possibility of more than ten students earning the honor, but we also make the honor attainable despite one’s relative success as compared to their classmates. To be a Scholar with Distinction, one must earn either all straight A’s for 7 semesters OR he/she must take honors, AP, and/or dual credit weighted courses to earn the points above the 4.0 cut off. It is quite an elite academic honor, and this year we have eight students being honored at the dinner and celebration.

Bishop Noll Institute strives to achieve excellence in all aspects of our mission. Our students and faculty work tirelessly to embrace pursuits in service, scholarship, and leadership. We continue to prepare our students for the challenges of college and the future, and we continue to be true to the pride and traditions of our Bishop Noll alumni!

The support of our friends and alumni are crucial to our success! On behalf of the entire Bishop Noll student body, faculty, staff, and administration, I thank you for your support and your belief in our future success.

Peace!

Colleen McCoy-Cejka, Principal

greetings from our principal

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2012-13 SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIONColleen McCoy-Cejka PrincipalBen Gutman Dean of StudentsMary Ellen O’Neill Director of Institutional AdvancementRenee Nagdeman Director of FinanceMichele Arnold Director of GuidanceFred Reynolds Director of TechnologyMarianne Galfano Athletic Director

2012-13 BOARD OF TRUSTEESMost Reverend Dale J. Melczek BishopDr. Barbara O’Block SuperintendentRev. Kevin Huber PresidentMichael Whelan ’85 Vice PresidentGeoff Laciak ’96 SecretaryAdrienne Gomez ’70Honorable Calvin D. HawkinsNora KasprzyckiColleen Kennedy ’82Mark R Lewers ’76Kathleen Lowry ’60Dan Marias ’68Paul Mullaney ’77Kevin O’Neill ’76Michael Repay ’93Chris Smolen ’82Michaline Tomich ’93

2012-13 FOUNDATION MEMBERSStephen Ligda ’58, PresidentMarlene Vega Coulis ’79, Vice President Rev. Dominic Bertino, TreasurerCarole Hepner ’59, SecretaryRay Garza

Bishop Noll Institute, a diverse

Catholic college preparatory school,

partners with local faith communities

to empower young adults to live

their faith in Christ through ministry,

scholarship, and leadership.

E-Noll TodayWould you like to receive your issues of Noll Today electronically? That is easily done! Noll Today is available in PDF format and could be e-mailed to you upon completion. Noll Today is also available on the website, www.bishopnoll.org under the alumni tab. If you would like to be placed on the e-mail list for Noll Today, please e-mail mjagielski@bishopnoll.org.

We Want Your News!Please take a few minutes and let everyone in the Bishop Noll family know how you are doing. Our alumnae enjoy hearing news about their classmates, their accomplishments and important events in their lives. Send us pictures of weddings, children and grandchildren. E-mail information to mjagielski@bishopnoll.org or mail to: Bishop Noll InstituteAdvancement Office 1519 Hoffman StreetHammond, IN 46327219-932-9058 ext. 1005219-932-4733 (fax)

Like Us On FacebookKeep up to date on all that is happening at Bishop Noll: academic achievements, sports, alumni. Just “Like” us at Bishop Noll Institute Alumni.

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Recently, while driving to work one morning, a song from my past was playing on the radio. At the risk of dating myself, the song was Feeling Stronger Every Day by the group Chicago. Well, the song got “stuck” in my head, and I found myself humming the refrain throughout the day. After several hours, I realized that these words “feeling stronger every day” describe this school

year at Bishop Noll Institute.We began the 2012-13 school year with an incoming

freshman class of 148 students, the largest since 2000. With additions to our dual-credit college level courses and continued upgrades in technology throughout the school, our students are receiving an excellent foundation for college and beyond.

Homecoming 2012 brought more than 700 alumni back home to BNI to celebrate reunions and rekindle friendships. Several football alumni from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s came together to honor former head football coach Jerry Vlasic, as well as kick off a fundraising campaign to renovate our aging locker rooms. September also marked the completion of the auditorium renovation. The green, orange and brown of the ’60s was replaced with new paint, flooring and seats. The auditorium is now a more modern facility which will support our growing arts programs.

Speaking of growing arts programs, our Bishop Noll Marching Band participated for the first time in the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade. Stepping out in brand new uniforms, the band made us proud.

Our sports teams continue to make us proud as well. While our boys basketball team remains strong, it was our girls basketball team that made headlines this season. Winning a conference championship and finishing their season with a 21-3 record, this is a team that will continue to impress. For the second year in a row, our wrestling team sent an individual to the state finals, and for the fourth year in a row, our boys swim team captured the conference championship!! Not bad for a school without a pool!

We could not advance our school in these many positive ways without the support of our alumni and friends. As Paul Mullaney ’77, our 2012-13 Annual Fund chair, remarked in his letter to all alumni recently that “Bishop Noll matters to so many people who studied here, played here, thrived here and grew here. Bishop Noll mattered then, and Bishop Noll matters now.” Your prayers, your visible presence at our many school events, and your financial support makes a difference in the lives of our students and the health of our school.

Together, we can continue to make Bishop Noll stronger every day.

May you and your family continue to enjoy God’s many blessings,

Mary Ellen O’NeillDirector of Institutional Advancement

32nd Annual Emporium – Friday, April 26th , at Bishop Noll

Building Fund Golf Outing – Monday, June 17th , at Briar Ridge Country Club

** Note New Date! Annual Bishop Noll Alumni & Friends Golf Outing – Monday, July 22nd , at Innsbrook Country Club

Homecoming Tailgate Party – Friday, October 11th , at Bishop Noll

For information about any of these events, please contact the Advancement Office at 932-9058.

We are proud of our new website and hope you like it as much as we do! With great pictures of our current Bishop Noll students and alumni throughout, as well as important news and current event information right on our main page, we think that you will find our new website interesting, informative and easy to use. Visit us at www.bishopnoll.org and let us know your thoughts.

save the date our website has a new look!

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Join usFriday, April 26, 6:30pm32nd Annual Emporium

PLANNING COMMITTEE

Daniel Marias ’68—ChairAdrienne Gomez ’70- Co-ChairKathleen Lowry ’60- Co-ChairRoseanne Gomez Cabrera ’73

Matt Chico ’02Rosemarie Kresich Dado ’73

Mehgan Jagielski ’08Lisa Kozlowski Kusiak ’88

Mark Lewers ’76Celia Martinez ’79Mary Ellen O'NeillVeronica PapachAna E. PalomoMike Repay ’93

Juli Korem Sandoval ’82Lori Prahovich Whelan ’85

A special "live scholarship auction" will be held to raise funds

for the Dorothy LaMere Memorial Scholarship.

To make a reservation, become an event sponsor or

donate an item for our auction, please contact Mehgan Jagielski

in the Advancement Office at 219.932.9058 ext. 1005

Donation $100 per person

To make reservations online, visit www.bishopnoll.org

The start of the 2012-13 school year welcomed two additions to our administrative team, as well as six new faculty members. Both additions to our administration come from varied experiences, but both share the commonality of having moved to the area quite recently. Athletic Director Mrs. Galfano, a former Catholic school A.D. in Ohio and coach in South Carolina, joins us from Eau Clair, Wisconsin. Her long list of experience includes both playing and coaching college athletics as well as coaching and directing programs at the high school level. Dean Ben Gutman, former high school teacher and coach and current master’s candidate at Northwestern University, joins us from Las Vegas, Nevada. His experience includes starting and maintaining a successful AP Statistics program in Vegas, which he plans to continue here at Noll!

Lindsey Robitaille joins Bishop Noll as Campus Minister and is also a teacher in the Theology Department. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Catholic Theology form Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA, and is enrolled in a Master’s Program at the Catholic Theological Union at Chicago.

Katie Riddell earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Math Education at Purdue University. Ms. Riddell is a member of the Math Department and teaches pre-calculus.

Jorge Lopez is a graduate of Bishop Noll Institute, class of 2008, and is a member of the Math Department. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education from Indiana University, Bloomington. Mr. Lopez currently teaches Geometry.

David Herr earned his Bachelor’s degree from Wabash College

and his Master’s degree from Indiana University Northwest. Mr. Herr is the lead piano accompanist for all music liturgy at St. James Church in Highland and performs weekends at Gamba Ristorante in Merrillville. Mr. Herr is the choir director and teaches music.

Todd Hutson earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science at Purdue University, and has completed additional coursework at Saint Mary of the Woods College in Terre Haute and Minnesota State University in Mankato. Mr. Hutson teaches Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.

Marci Arnt is a member of the Science Department. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Depauw University. She graduated with a D.D.S. from Indiana University School of Dentistry, and served in the U.S. Navy for 3 years. Ms. Arnt taught at Indiana University—Fort Wayne for 7 years, and has been a high school teacher since 2008. Ms. Arnt currently teaches Chemistry.

(Not pictured) Jack Chavez is a member of the Theology Department. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Illinois University, and his Master of Science in Educational Administration from Purdue University, Calumet. He is currently enrolled in the MBA program at Purdue, Calumet.

Mr. Chavez has been a teacher in northwest Indiana for eight years.

Please extend a warm welcome our new administrators and faculty! We are blessed to have such dedicated and talented members join our team!

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welcome to our new administrators and faculty

Back row left to right, Ben Gutman, Marianne Galfano, Jorge Lopez, David Herr, Todd Hutson. Front row left to right, Lindsey Robitaille, Katie Riddell, and Marci Arnt.

Principal Colleen McCoy-Cejka Earns “20 Under 40” HonorThis year’s class of “20 Under 40” honorees includes one of Bishop Noll’s very own—Principal Colleen McCoy-Cejka. Her story, featured in both the Northwest Indiana Times and the Fall 2012 BusINess magazine, includes references to the struggles and successes on the road to bringing Bishop Noll to the next level. School changes highlighted include the addition of several classes in the performing arts, physical renovations, and a full schedule redesign, which promotes a more college-like environment, the importance of time management, and every opportunity for students to take control of their academic goals or become more involved in clubs and student government. Though her role at Noll has been challenging in many regards, McCoy-Cejka’s commitment to Catholic education and the school she has come to love inspires her daily to push herself—and the school—forward. “Every day is an adventure,” she states, “and as long as there are problems to solve and great people to work alongside, I’ll keep coming back. Much work lies ahead, and these students are so worth it!” Find the full article at www.nwitimes.com/niche/inbusiness

Warmest congratulations to Mrs. McCoy-Cejka for receiving this most impressive honor!

Teacher Mary Beth Johnsen honored by The University of ChicagoFor any teacher, it is always gratifying to hear from former students that their dedication to teaching prepared them well for success in college and future careers. Instant feedback greeted English teacher Mary Beth Johnsen this past summer when she learned that 2012 graduate Analyse Markovic, who was preparing to enter The University of Chicago as a freshman, had nominated Mrs. Johnsen for the Outstanding Educator Award.

Each year, the College of the University of Chicago asks its entering students to identify and commend outstanding high school educators. Students at the University of Chicago are highly intelligent and committed individuals who most certainly were inspired by a particular teacher during their high school years. When speaking to Analyse Markovic, she describes Mrs. Johnsen as “more than just a teacher…she is a true educator who challenged me intellectually. She pushed me to expand my knowledge of literature and never let me become complacent.” Knowing that Analyse would be applying to The University of Chicago, Mrs. Johnsen offered advice on more complex and unique literature that would benefit her in a challenging college environment. Ms. Markovic went on to say, “the primary lessons I learned during my first quarter in college I had already learned in Mrs. Johnsen’s class at Bishop Noll. I was well prepared.”

We are fortunate to have had Mrs. Johnsen inspiring our Bishop Noll students for the past 23 years and congratulate her on this award!

Spotlight on Campus Ministry: Helping BNI Students to Deepen Their FaithWelcome to our new Campus Ministry team. Mrs. Lindsey Robitaille joins Bishop Noll this year as our new Campus Minister, and Rev. David Kime ‘88 has come home to his alma mater. Currently serving as Pastor of St. Francis Xavier in Lake Station, Indiana, Fr. Kime enjoys spending time with BNI students celebrating Mass, hearing confessions, and assisting with retreats.

The Campus Ministry program at Bishop Noll seeks to provide students with opportunities to deepen their faith and cultivate a sense of reverence and respect for the Christian tradition. Through liturgy, retreats, prayer, and other activities, the students can participate more fully in Catholic Christian faith that defines our school identity.

Students attend all-school Masses at the beginning of the year, during Catholic Schools week, and on important feast days in the life of the Church such as All Saints Day, Thanksgiving, Ash Wednesday, and during the seasons of Advent and Easter. The Masses provide the students with opportunities to participate in ways such as lectoring, being a Eucharistic Minister, singing in the choir, and altar serving. In addition to receiving the Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist at these Masses, there are various times throughout the year that the students can receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation from the chaplain or other visiting priests.

All students attend retreats away from school during each of their years at Bishop Noll. Beginning with the 2013-14 school year the Kairos retreat program will be introduced to our Bishop Noll students. Kairos (from Greek kairos, adapted to mean “the Lord’s time”) is a Roman Catholic retreat program for high school and college students. The difference between Kairos and other retreats is that it focuses mostly on helping one find his or her own personal relationship with God during a few days of discerning and discovery.

Bishop Noll has several prayer services throughout the year that bring all the students together in an atmosphere of communal prayer. The services focus on themes such as Mary and the Rosary, Advent, and Lent. During Holy Week, the students put on a production of the Living Stations of the Cross, a moving and prayerful reenactment of the Passion of Jesus Christ. The students and faculty are also invited to morning and afternoon prayer in the chapel during certain seasons of the liturgical year.

Campus Ministry sponsors other events such as pro-life activities and service experiences. It is the hope of Bishop Noll Institute that each student might consider joining in these social justice activities to put his or her faith into action and to service the community.

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Living the BNI MissionAt Bishop Noll, we take great pride in the students who attend our school. The mission of the school is evident through their service and their commitment to the needs of others. Sophomore Lauren Richey is a prime example of a student committed to service and

making a difference in the lives of others. Richey was one of 20 high school students who did volunteer community service projects while living in an indigenous Athabasca village in the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska for one month of her summer vacation.

Lauren and other volunteers re-roofed an historic cabin in Tetlin, constructed two 20' benches for a community pavilion, did carpentry renovations to local homes, landscaped, and even used chain saws and a lot of hard work to collect firewood for a traditional steam bath lodge.

Of her service learning trip with VISIONS Service Adventures, Lauren said, “I met a lot of new people and I did service work with people I got really close to, so it wasn't just work—we were having fun while helping others at the same time.” VISIONS operates high school and middle school volunteer travel programs in Central and South America, the Caribbean West Indies, United States, Cambodia and Ghana.

Richey, 2nd from the right, is pictured with her VISIONS team.

Congratulations to the Class of 2013 top academic seniors! This is the first year that our top academic students in the senior class will be honored with a special distinction. Only students with a 4.0 or above receive the title and honor of Bishop Noll Graduate with Distinction. This year, we have 8 seniors who have earned a 4.0 or higher after the first semester of senior year. These grades also determine the Valedictorian and Salutatorian.

Thomas Abbott—Valedictorian Bishop Noll Prep AcademyDouglas Roach—Salutatorian Christ Our Savior, Calumet CityDaniel Pobereyko Wilbur Wright Middle School, MunsterShannon Figueroa Bishop Noll Prep AcademyEdward Rivera Bishop Noll Prep AcademyMichael Camacho St. John the Baptist, WhitingRyan Gordish Our Lady of Grace, HighlandVincent Medina St. Stanislaus, East Chicago

class of 2013 graduates with distinctionDaniel Pobereyko; Ryann Gordish; Valedictorian, Thomas Abbott, Michael Camacho; Salutatorian, Douglas Roach; Edward Rivera; Vincent Medina; Shannon Figueroa

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Bishop Noll Students Attend March for Life Rally in Washington, D.C.Eight students and two staff members from Bishop Noll Institute traveled to Washington, D.C. from January 23rd–27th to attend the March for Life rally. Along with more than 500,000 pro-life advocates at this year’s rally, which marks the 40th anniversary of the Roe vs. Wade decision, the students joined other members from the Diocese of Gary, including students from St. Mary in Griffith. The group attended the Vigil for Life at the National Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a youth rally at the Verizon Center, and the March for Life rally. They later met with local congressmen after the march to discuss their involvement in supporting life at all stages.

While in Washington, D.C., the group had the opportunity to tour the Capitol building, as well as visit the Air and Space Museum, the Holocaust Museum, and the Presidential & War memorials.

From left to right: Father David Kime ‘82, Bishop Noll Chaplain; Mrs. Lindsey Robitaille, Bishop Noll Campus Minister; Bishop Noll students Joseph Real, Rebecca Earle, Madison Stahura, Lauren Richey, Nathaniel Bibat, Courtney Rosario, Lauren Burns, Jose Arteaga, and Father Ben Ross, Associate Pastor— St. Thomas More Church.

Cover Story: The Bishop Noll Institute Marching BandThe Bishop Noll Institute band made an impressive comeback in the fall of 2011, and this school year they continue to amaze and inspire us! Adding half-time shows at all home football games and a return to the 2012 Columbus Day Parade in Chicago where they received the “Marching Band Patriotic Award” was only just the beginning. On November 22nd, members of the Bishop Noll marching band, dance and cheer teams participated for the first time in the annual Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade. An audition tape sent to the parade committee last year won our band a spot in the popular Christmas-themed parade. “When you do a parade of this magnitude, it really steps up the band program,” said BNI Band Director Rocco Carioto.

Sponsored by McDonald’s and televised nationwide on WGN-TV, the parade allowed students to not only showcase their talents, but also brand new marching band uniforms. New collegiate-style uniforms and Busby hats replaced the out-dated 30 year-old uniforms. A picture perfect, fall morning welcomed our students as they proudly marched down State Street and wowed the spectators with their rendition of “Angels on Parade”—a combination of popular Christmas songs. Congratulations to our band! We look forward to their next performance.

The Bishop Noll Institute cast of “The Stingiest Man in Town” mingles on the street during the holiday season in the play based on Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol”.

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sports recapFall & Winter

GSSC Conference ChampionsBoys SoccerBoys BasketballGirls BasketballBoys Swim

GSSC Tournament ChampionsBoys Basketball Girls Basketball

IHSAA Wrestling Sectional ChampionDamian Gomez

IHSAA Wrestling Regional QualifierDamian Gomez Mark Feliciano

IHSAA Wrestling Semi-State QualifierMark Feliciano

IHSAA Wrestling Semi-State Runner-up Damian Gomez

IHSAA Wrestling State QualifierDamian Gomez

IHSAA Team Regional QualifierBoys Cross Country

Indiana Soccer Association Individual RankingGonzalo Romo: 1st Team All District 3rd Team All StateDance2nd Place Jazz and Hip Hop Lake Central InviteHip Hop and Lyrical State Qualifiers

Congratulations to three of our seniors who have signed their national letters of intent to play sports at the collegiate level. Danny Pobereyko has signed signed with Butler University on a full scholarship to play baseball. Jacob Rehm has signed with Calumet College of St. Joseph for track and field. Gonzalo Romo has signed with University of Illinois Chicago to play soccer. Warm wishes for future success!

Congratulations to our girls varsity basketball team for a history-making season! The girls finished their regular season with an impressive 19-2 record. They were also conference champions during regular season play, and tournament champions of the GSSC. They finished out their impressive season as sectional runners-up.

Senior Damian Gomez represented Bishop Noll February 15 in Indianapolis at the Wrestling State Finals. With a record of 36-4, Damian was this year's Sectional Champion, Regional and Semi-State Runner-up, and State Qualifier.

Congratulations to the BNI boys swim team! The boys took 1st Place in the Greater South Shore Conference for the 4th year in a row! Since BNI is known to be the ‘school with no pool,’ the boys have put in the extra effort by practicing at Calumet High School. We’re so proud of all of their hard work and dedication!

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congratulations!

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homecoming 2012Celebrating our School…Reconnecting with old friends…Honoring our BestOur students here at Bishop Noll are an enthusiastic group on any given day, but during Spirit Week they really turn up the volume! With crazy dress-up days such as Character Day, Twin Day and Decade Day, the students were revved up for the big pep rally and Homecoming game on Friday. The pep rally had the fieldhouse rocking, with thunderous cheers from each of the classes, several contests between students, and cheerful support for our football team. A “Tropical Paradise” themed semi-formal dance closed out the festivities on Saturday evening.

Our football team didn’t disappoint. A 35-13 victory over River Forest had all in a celebratory mood. During halftime, seniors Bianca Gonzalez and Jordan Taylor were crowned king and

queen. With many reunion classes in attendance at the game, we were honored to have the 1972 Homecoming Queen, Elizabeth Ilickovich Kling, and 1972 Student Council President, Jim Etter, in town for their 40th reunion, on the field to help crown our new king and queen.

As the game wound down, the Annual Alumni and Friends Tailgate party was just getting started in the fieldhouse! Over 650 friends and alumni gathered for a pig roast and beer garden and the pleasure of seeing old friends. Many reunion classes kicked off their reunion weekend at the tailgate party. Reserved tables were set aside for those classes celebrating reunions. Classmates arrived early, decorating their tables with balloons, glitter and pictures!

Mark your calendars for October 11, 2013 for the next Tailgate Party!

Surrounded by alumni football players, our BNI Warriors charge onto the field to take on the River Forest Ingots.

The 2012 Homecoming Court

Alumni celebrating reunions from the classes of 1967, 1972 and 1987 enjoy reconnecting with old friends at the Tailgate party.

Friends from the Class of 2002, Erica Mazzon, Brian Hrabovsky and Jake Golich enjoy the Tailgate.

1972 Homecoming Queen, Elizabeth Ilickovich Kling, and 1972 Student Council President, Jim Etter, on the field to see the 2012 Homecoming king and queen announced.

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Dave Skibinski ’76, Michael Knight ’75, and Al Verbish ’75 enjoying the pregame dinner in honor of Coach Jerry Vlasic.

Coach Mike Juscik ’89 and the BNI Warriors take time for a prayer with alumni football players at the grotto before heading onto the field.

A banner honoring the accomplishments of Coach Jerry Vlasic is presented on the field during a pregame ceremony.

Football alumni from the ‘70s through the ’90s gather with Jerry and Lila Vlasic for a photo.

Football Lettermen Gather to Honor Coach Jerry VlasicWhen BNI alums Dave Skibinski ’76 and Michael Knight ’75 were in town over the summer for their reunion, they were inspired to do something to give back to Bishop Noll. Shortly after, the Jerry Vlasic Tribute/ Football Lettermen Locker Room Challenge was born.

Prior to the Homecoming football game, a special pregame dinner honoring Jerry Vlasic ’55 was held in the fieldhouse. It was at the dinner that the challenge to raise the funds necessary to renovate the boys locker room was launched. After dinner,

the alumni joined to football team for its ritual pregame prayer at the grotto. On the field a banner lauding Coach Vlasic’s accomplishments at BNI was presented. The banner now hangs proudly in the BNI fieldhouse. A 1955 BNI alumnus, Vlasic was the head coach from 1971-1997. With 163 victories, including and undefeated and untied season in 1975 and a Class 3A state championship in 1989, this seven-time coach of the year in the Lake Athletic Conference was inducted into the Indiana Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1996.

To date, the Locker Room Challenge has raised over $7,500 of the $30,000 it needs to renovate the locker room. Please consider donating to this worthy fund.

12 scholarship receptionEach year during Catholic School’s Week, we invite our scholarship contributors to meet those Bishop Noll students who are the recipients of their generosity at a special reception.

Judith and Edward Williamson (seated) join Monique ’85 and Robert ’82 Jakubielski and their son Philip ’16. Philip Jakubielski is the recipient of the Williamson Family Schoaarship. The Williamsons have two daughters who have graduated from Bishop Noll, Charlotte ’11 and Rachel ’12. The scholarship is the Williamsons’ way of saying thank you to Bishop Noll for the fine education their daughters received.

Bishop Noll student Rachel Sherbondy ’14, recipient of the Michael Buksar Memorial Scholarship, had the opportunity to meet and thank scholarship contributors Michaelene Gore ’71 and Cindy Marazas ’66. Gore and Marazas are the daughters of the late Michael Buksar.

In November, you received a letter from our Annual Fund Chairman, Paul Mullaney ’77, asking you to support Bishop Noll in our Annual Fund. Not only is Paul an alumnus of Bishop Noll, he is a member of the school’s volunteer board of directors, and a parent of five current or recent Noll graduates. His message to alumni was simple; Bishop Noll matters to so many people who studied here, played here, thrived here and grew here. Bishop Noll mattered then, and Bishop Noll matters now.

As a Catholic institution, Bishop Noll is committed to educating the whole person—mind, body, and soul. Bishop Noll has provided a quality education to more than 19,000 students for more than 92 years, in part, because of grateful alumni who give back. Alumni support helps provide vital funds that sustain the educational mission of inspiring academic achievement, building moral character, and nurturing spiritual growth.

To date, we have received gifts totaling over $120,000. These gifts were received from 460 donors. We are so very grateful for their generosity. However, this number represents a small fraction of over 14,000 living alumni who were educated at Bishop Noll Institute If all of our alumni could make a gift of any kind, we would more than triple our goal! Imagine the possibilities! We could offer more financial support to our many students in need, upgrade our technology and make many improvements to our aging school building. With four months to go in our fiscal year, we still need to raise $50,000. I am confident the spirit of Bishop

Noll is alive in each of you and that you will help us reach our goal.

If you have not had the opportunity to make your donation to our Annual Fund, I ask that you make yours today. There are a number of ways to send us your gift: Mail your gift to us in the envelope included with this edition of the Noll Today, go to our website www.bishopnoll.org and click on “Support BNI” to make your gift online, or call us; we would be happy to take your gift over the phone and learn about what is happening in your life. Contact Mary Ellen O’Neill or Mehgan Jagielski in the Advancement Office at 219-932-9058. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

No Matter how you choose to support Bishop Noll, your gift does “double duty” by increasing our alumni participation. Alumni participation to our Annual Fund is a vote of satisfaction with your BNI experience and are an important statistic used in grant applications which greatly benefit Bishop Noll.

annual fund

Corrections In the fall mailing of our Annual report the following were listed incorrectly:The Marian L. Schumacher Murphy Scholarship is funded by Peter MurphyThe Michael Buksar Memorial Scholarship did not list a recipient. Her name is Rachel Sherbondy ’14.Donald Cipowski is from the class of 1961, not 1955A donation from Donna Tomko Barton was listed incorrectly.Donations from Brian C. Lukich ‘95 and Jeffrey E. Lukich ’97 were left out in error.

Our sincere apologies for these errors.

Fall Raffle 2012 Winners

Grand Prize- $20,000: Paul Lesczynski, South Holland2nd Prize- $5,000: Gloria Martinez, Calumet City3rd Prize- $2,000: Robert Wolfe, Crown Point4th Prize- $500: Sharon Hutton, Gary5th Prize- $500: Mary Shell, Gary6th Prize- $500: Elaine Zdunek, Calumet City7th Prize- $500: The Anglin Family, Hammond

$170,000

$120,000

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BNI Board member and alumnus, Mike Whelan ’85 celebrates the completion of the auditorium renovation with Jason ’92 and Elizabeth Cipowski ’92 at the donor reception. Jason Cipowski oversaw much of the construction of the auditorium. Through the generosity of Michael ‘85 and Lori Prahovich Whelan ’85, and Walsh Construction, Bishop Noll was able to complete the auditorium renovation in September.

WAYS TO GIVE TO BISHOP NOLL INSTITUTEBishop Noll Institute's progress over the years has been made possible by the continued support of our alumni and friends. Your gifts enable us to continue to challenge, educate, and enlighten our students and to help us fulfill our mission. Below are some of the many ways you can support Bishop Noll Institute.

annual fund The Annual Fund is the largest fundraising effort at Bishop Noll Institute. Annual Fund monies go to work immediately to support the gap between current tuition costs and the actual cost of educating each student.

5 for 5 young alumni campaign As part of our Annual Fund, which supports the school’s operating budget, BNI asks young alumni who graduated from Bishop Noll between 2007-2012 to make a donation of $5 (roughly the cost of a foot long sandwich) for the next 5 years. We ask you to give a small gift to the school that has given you so much.

fill the house Bishop Noll Institute holds a special place in the hearts of its students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends. Now, through our Fill the House fund, you can make your mark at Bishop Noll Institute and leave a legacy that family, friends, and future Warriors will enjoy. In the summer of 2012, our 50 year-old auditorium underwent a major renovation. New seating, paint, carpeting, tile, stage upgrades and handicap accessibility has transformed our auditorium into a more modern facility

When you purchase a seat, you will be honored with an individual brass name plate on the seat or seats you buy. Each seat is only $250. There are over 400 seats to fill! Want to buy a row of seats? There are 6 seats per side row and 13 down the center. Be sure to include the name you want on it!

lettermen locker room challenge In September of 2012, former BNI football players from the ’50s through the ‘90s held a special reunion to pay tribute to Hall of Fame member and former BNI head football coach Jerry Vlasic. These former players recognized a need

to support the current athletic program and pay tribute to a beloved coach. The Lettermen Locker Room Challenge is raising the funds necessary to completely renovate the boys locker room in the BNI fieldhouse. The goal for this project is $25,000. To date we have raised over $7,500 (as of Feb. 2013). All donors will be recognized on a plaque outside of the renovated locker room.

scholarships It is Bishop Noll’s ministry to promote and maintain a diverse student body composed of young women and men from a wide range of cultural, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Scholarship dollars are an important facet of our fundraising efforts in fulfilling that ministry. Tuition at Bishop Noll Institute for the 2012-2013 school year averages $7,200. Please consider funding a scholarship to support the current students at BNI.

rev. john winterlin award Father John Winterlin served as Chairman of the Fine Arts Department at Bishop Noll Institute and taught music and theology from 1969-1988. He instilled his love of music to many BNI students through his many musical productions and choral concerts.

The music department at Bishop Noll would like to honor the legacy of Fr. Winterlin with the The Rev. John Winterlin Award. This award will be a monetary award presented to two current members of the Bishop Noll Choir at the end of the academic year. The purpose of this award is to both recognize the contributions of Father Winterlin to the music program at Bishop Noll Institute, as well as the achievements of current Noll choir students.

The recipients of this scholarship will be students who have gone above and beyond in their accomplishments, respect and level of commitment to the Bishop Noll choir. Our goal for the monetary amount of the scholarship is $500 per student. With the support of BNI alumni who were inspired by Fr. Winterlin, we hope to achieve this goal by the end of the 2012-2013 calendar year. If you would like to support the funding of this scholarship, please send your donation to the attention of Mary Ellen O’Neill, Director of Institutional Advancement. We kindly ask that checks be in reference to the “Winterlin Award” and made payable to Bishop Noll Institute.

thanking our generous donorsThis past September, we once again invited our major donors to join us foran evening of food and fellowship. This year the donors received a special treat. They were among the first to see our newly renovated auditorium—and take part in a special blessing by Bishop Dale J. Melczek.

Tim Whelan ‘60 and former parent Steve Prahovich enjoy the donor reception. The two men spent many a warm summer day working on the auditorium renovation.

After blessing the renovated auditorium, Bishop Dale Melczek has a chance to enjoy the donor reception with Pete Doherty ’71 and his father Paul Doherty, Sr.

Former faculty, and current BNI Foundation members, Rev. Dominic Bertino and Carol Hepner ’59 enjoy being back at Bishop Noll.

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2013 hall of honor inducteesOn Sunday, March 3rd, Bishop Noll Institute celebrated its 12th Annual Hall of Honor Induction ceremony. The Hall of Honor recognizes alumni and friends who have demonstrated outstanding service and leadership. This year’s inductees included Frank Schilling ’62 for Outstanding Alumnus, Shirley Scanlon for Outstanding Service and Deacon James Haugh ’53 for Outstanding Alumnus, posthumously.

Frank Schilling graduated from Bishop Noll in 1962 and had a successful career in the lumber industry. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Frank and his wife Shirley began an eight year journey developing the Shrine of Christ’s Passion in St. John Indiana. Schilling’s son, Greg, presented the award of Outstanding Alumnus to his father.

Shirley Scanlon was recognized for Outstanding Service through her work in the Bishop Noll Foundation and Development offices. Scanlon dedicated thirty years to Bishop Noll keeping alumni connected to the school. Scanlon’s daughter, Nora, and son, Kevin, presented the award for Outstanding Service to their mother.

Deacon James Haugh, ’53 was recognized for Outstanding Alumnus, posthumously. Deacon Haugh was ordained a deacon in 2000, and served the parishes of St. Stanislaus, Holy Trinity, and St. John Cantius in East Chicago. He was also involved in many local civic groups and foundations throughout the city of East Chicago. He ministered to many over the past twelve years. Deacon Haugh passed away on December 9, 2012. His award was presented to his wife, Marjorie, by their son, Shawn ’77.

The entire Bishop Noll community congratulates Frank Schilling, Shirley Scanlon, and the family of Deacon James Haugh for this honor.

Pictured from left, Hall of Honor inductee Shirley Scanlon, Bishop Noll principal Colleen McCoy-Cejka, Hall of Honor inductee Frank Schilling ’60, Marjorie Haugh, wife of the late Deacon James Haugh ’53, Mary Ellen O’Neill, Director of Institutional Advancement.

class of 1949

a sign of faith

Since the Class of 1949 celebrated their 60th reunion, several classmates have been meeting once a month for mini reunions. They average about 30 people per luncheon, and meet at various restaurants in the northwest Indiana area. Attendees

such as Doris Mayfield, John Gillis, Nick and Nelda Luna, Virginia (Trpinski) Michaels, Theresa (Worosz) Michna, and Dolores (Abraham) Ferkull come to the mini luncheon reunions every month.

A sign of faith through a simple cross—Jim Thiel ’60 has been crafting some of the highest quality cabinets in the midwest for several years out of his shop in St. John, Indiana. What you may not know is that Jim makes crosses – thousands of them. These small two inch crosses are beautifully simple examples of his deep faith. Finely crafted and stained out of several types of wood, these simple, yet elegant crosses are a most beautiful gift.

These crosses hang around the necks of the faithful all over the world. In 2010 Thiel and several parishioners from St. John the Evangelist made and shipped 50,000 crosses to earthquake stricken Haiti. Our own Bishop Noll students have been the recipients of these lovely crosses. At the Lenten prayer service in 2012, the entire BNI community received a cross. This past December, all new BNI students and staff received them, this time from Jim himself.

If anyone has plans to travel to Rome in the near future and can make room to take some of the crosses in their suitcase to be blessed by the Holy Father, make sure to let Jim know. He will gladly take you up on your offer.

Jim Thiel ’60 presenting his hand made crosses to BNI students during the Advent prayer service.

A BNI student displays their “Thiel cross”.

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1948Ann Babinec Miskovich Ann and husband Jim will be married 60 years in August 2013. They are blessed to have four children and five grandchildren.

1949Patricia Johann O’Rourke Patricia enjoys living in Michigan on the St. Joseph River which winds south and then west past Notre Dame. She loves attending many N.D. Fighting Irish sporting events since she lives close!

William J. Richter William served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years after graduating from Bishop Noll in 1949. He fought in the Korean War, aboard 2 ships, the USS Diamond, AM.YO Ship and USS Ahakapa. His two sons also served our country in the U.S. Army for 8 years after graduating high school under extremely dangerous conditions. He has 10 children, 6 girls and 4 boys, and he also has 31 grand children.

1951Myra B. Halpin Myra is currently retired. She is a volunteer at the Indianapolis Museum of Art and the local Red Cross Chapter.

William ’51 & Joan ’55 Malatestinic Joan and a group of 1955 classmates gathered at Ciao Bella Ristorante for a book signing by Vern Petri. Vern published an Italian cookbook “Tuscany al Verano” with recipes from Lucca, Italy where he was born and lived for 11 years before coming to America.

1953Stephen D. Penny Stephen is looking forward to the 60th class reunion in October 2013.

Phillip J. BakerSince he retired from the National Institute of Health, Phillip accepted the position of Executive Director of the American Lyme Disease Foundation.

1955James E. Schreiner James is happy to announce his 50th reunion from Notre Dame Law School this year.

1956Ed & Mary Kay Spalding O’Malley The O’Malleys invite any classmate from the class of 1956 for Arizona hospitality!

1957Mr. & Mrs. Robert HirschRobert would like to thank the Class of 1957 reunion committee for putting together a great class reunion. Since he lives in Seattle, the 4,400 miles he traveled for the reunion were well worth it!

1959Colleen Ward Mayes Colleen and her husband met Nano Cloghessey Dubish ’59 and her husband in Florida the past two years. They have also reconnected with other BNI alums Joan Costanza Meister ’59 and husband Dick Meister ’56 through DePaul University events.

Joseph Sallak Joseph is finally retired. He and his wife, Joyce, spend their winters in Arizona.

1961Livia Dona Centofanti Livia and her husband Frank celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on August 11, 2012.

1965Phillip J. & Karen S. KokandyPhillip is now a retired teacher from the Diocese of Gary since June 2007. He and his wife, Karen, moved to the Winfield/Crown Point area in May 2012.

1966Therese McMahon Putz Therese, as a former teacher and alum, is proud and excited to see Bishop Noll thriving!

1967Mr. & Mrs. Robert HomrichBob and Joan live in San Antonio, TX. For the past four years, Bob has inspired our Bishop Noll students with his “peanut butter” campaign. He encourages students to collect peanut butter to donate to the Northwest Indiana Food Bank. A very popular staple in food banks, our students collected and donated 450 jars of peanut butter this year.

Greg CataldiGreg really enjoyed the joint class reunion of classes ’75-’77, and the Vlasic Football reunion! He would also like to congratulate Coach Juscik on the BNI football team’s sectional victory.

1972Mary Beth Bonaventura Honorable Mary Beth Bonaventura was appointed the head of the Indiana Department of Child Services by Governor Mike Pence.

1974Michael Jackovich Mike is semi-retired and enjoys living near Albuquerque, New Mexico. He still intends to do consulting work on a part-time basis.

Maryanne (Pullen) NeinerMaryanne and her husband Mark are excited to get an exciting charitable organization, Planting Possibilities, up and running. They will be building a commercial greenhouse in Lake County, IN, that will employ and job-train

adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Planting Possibilities can be visited at www.plantingpossibilities.org or find them on Facebook!

1975Ron Saenz Ron would like to dedicate his note to his classmate Michelle Obremski who passed away recently. She was a beautiful person inside and out, and may she rest in eternal peace. She told Ron at their 25 year reunion in 2000 that she liked reading Ron’s ‘Noll Notes.’ Here’s to Michelle from the entire class of 1975.

1978Harry KarahaliosHarry is the Executive Chef at Briar Ridge Country Club in Schererville, IN. He oversees the operations of four restaurants and three banquet rooms. Recently Chef Harry was awarded the 2012 Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation. Under his leadership, Briar Ridge was awarded the Golden Skillet Award by The Northwest Indiana Adult Guardianship Service.

1981Portia Pittman HolmesPortia and her husband Glyen have been married for 24 years and have three children, Jamila (22), Glyen II (21), and Hakeem (18). All of their children are in college, and are also in the Army National Guard. Portia has been in nursing for 25 years having received her Master of Nursing from Florida A& M University. They live on a 150 acre farm in Marianna, Florida, where they own and operate the New North Florida Cooperative, a nonprofit organization founded to assist small farmers in the areas of marketing, education, processing, and distribution. Their co-op delivers fresh fruits and vegetables to schools in FL, AL, GA, MS, AR, and TN, helping school children and teens eat nutritious meals. During the 2011-12 school year, they fed over 400,000 meals. Portia is born again, and is an ordained minister. She says that Mr. Nowak would never believe that she runs a successful business, and her Theology teachers would not believe she is a minister! She says some of her best childhood memories are from her days at BNI. She has a great life, and Bishop Noll has had a part to play in it.

1982John StedmanJohn and his wife, Colleen, welcomed their first child, a beautiful baby boy, Michael, in 2012.

1986Tom & Michelle Baker Tom and wife, Michelle, are proud parents of Kenneth Thomas, born on October 26, 2012, weighing 7lbs 11 oz. They now have six children, and live in Peoria, IL. Tom is an electrical engineer at Caterpillar.

1990David OlivenciaDavid is the Director of IT Strategy and Planning at Verizon Communications, and was recently recognized by Great Minds in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) with the 2012 Executive Excellence in Technology Award.

noll notes

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Reunion 2013If you have a graduation year ending in a 3 or an 8, this is a reunion year for you! The first thing your reunion committee will need is a class list. The Advancement Office at Bishop Noll will gladly provide you with our most updated class list. If you would like to list your class reunion information on our website, we’re happy to do that as well. Just contact Mary Ellen O’Neill, Director of Institutional Advancement, moneill@bishopnoll.org. We’ll do our best to provide you with the information you need to help make your class reunion a success. Remember to send pictures of your reunion so that we can share them in our Noll Today and here on our website.

The following classes are currently planning their reunions:

Class of 1993 The 20th reunion of the Class of 1993 is currently in the planning stages. The reunion will be held on Saturday, October 12th. Information regarding the reunion will be announced soon. Please check here for future details. The committee is in the process of gathering contact information for members of the Class of 1993. If you

would like to provide your most updated contact information, please contact Brian Susoreny bsusoreny@aol.com.

Class of 1983 The 30th reunion of the Class of 1983 is currently in the planning stages. A date for the reunion will be announced shortly. Please check here for future details. The committee is in the process of gathering contact information for members of the Class of 1983. If you would like to provide your most updated contact information, or to volunteer on the reunion committee, please contact Debbie Jakubielski Dahlkamp dahlkamp2847@comcast.net.

Class of 1988 The 25th reunion of the Class of 1988 is currently in the planning stages. The reunion will be held the weekend of August 2–4. Information regarding the reunion weekend will be announced soon. Please check here for future details. The committee is in the process of gathering contact information for members of the Class of 1988. If you would like to provide your most updated contact information, or to volunteer on the planning committee, please contact: Bishop Noll 1988 25th Class Reunion bishop.noll88@aol.com.

Class of 1963 50th Reunion: “Fine are We of ’63”The Bishop Noll Class of 1963 will celebrate its 50th Reunion September 20–23, 2013. There will be an informal gathering the evening of Friday, September 20th, the 50th Reunion Dinner at the Briar Ridge Country Club in Dyer on Saturday, September 21st, and a Mass followed by brunch on Sunday, September 22nd. Come share the memories, the stories, and the joy!

Contact the following for further information:Jeffrey Kristoff: jsk1sc@gmail.comWallene Swentko: wallbossy2@aol.comRichard Schreiner: rschrein@iupui.edu

Class of 1953 The 60th reunion of the Class of 1953 is approaching! Reserve the weekend of October 18-19. Gatherings on both nights will be at Villa Ceasare Banquet Center in Schererville, IN. A letter with complete details and reservations will be mailed in the spring. If you want to make sure the reunion committee has your correct contact information please contact: Tom Hicks, tomfhicks@aol.com, or phone him at 828-396-1507.

Please remember those who have gone to their eternal rest.

1935 Father Matthew Kish1935 John Pollock1939 Ray Keilman1942 Joseph H. McShane1943 James Giannini1944 Alberta Ladwig (Bowman) Cloghessy1945 James F. Zimmerman1946 Charmaine Simmons1946 Lorraine Weber Dixon1946 Patricia Wirtz Reppa1947 Edward Berkowicz1948 Thomas McGuan1948 Andrew Schrepfer1948 William King

1948 Karyl Filas Pawlowski1948 Vincent Premuda1948 John Elo1948 Patricia Quinn O’Connell1948 Charles Halpin1950 Roger Rettig1950 Eileen (Powell) Cummings1950 John Paul McShane1952 Thomas R. Bobak1952 John Lukacek 1953 Phil Wlekinski1953 Francis Hornick1953 Deacon James C. Haugh1953 CMSgt. James C. Sofianos1954 Gilbert Spisak

1954 Elaine (Fech) Ostrowski1956 Stanley Gasior, Jr.1957 Violet Hower James1957 James Snider1957 Ronald Hayes1957 Stanley Zygowicz1957 Mary Fran Speziale1958 Daniel Omilianowski1958 Sandra Angel1959 Casimir Rutkowski1961 Joseph Golarz1962 Geraldine Potraza1963 Theresa Shane1964 Lous M. Zager1968 Timothy Kozlowski1969 Carol Szczepanski1970 Eileen Deakin Knoerzer

1971 Joseph Kaminski1972 Jeffrey Gerdes1972 David Sporinsky1980 Jeffrey Tuskan1980 Gayle (Gant) Williams

Friends of Bishop NollJoyce PartykaDr. Michael & Mary Ellen Tilka

A note from the Advancement Office: If there is someone that has passed away who is part of the Bishop Noll family, we appreciate you letting us know. You can call Mary Ellen O’Neill at 219-932-9058, ext. 1002 or e-mail at moneill@bishopnoll.org. Thank You!

in memoriamEternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen

Dorothy LaMereFormer Bishop Noll English teacher Dorothy La Mere passed away on November 5th, 2012. Mrs. La Mere taught at Bishop Noll from 1961–1964 and 1968-1985. Bishop Noll Institute is saddened to lose a beloved teacher and friend. Mrs. LaMere inspired thousands of students during her 30 years as an English teacher and mentor at Bishop Noll Institute. She touched many lives through her love of teaching, her passion for literature, and her kindness.

After learning of her passing, many alums wrote touching comments about their experiences in her classroom. Barbara (Blum) Williams ’84 posted, “I have remembered Mrs. LaMere often since graduating in ’84. She was a remarkable teacher, passionate, and caring. May perpetual light shine upon her and may her soul rest in peace. Well done, good and faithful servant…May she rest in peace.” Another alumna, Lori Prahovich-Whelan ’85 commented, “She was one of the most influential teachers of my life.” Other comments included, “One of the best teachers and a woman filled with class and grace! She lived a wonderful life” and “Mrs. LaMere was unforgettable. She had a tremendous influence on my life…”

May Dorothy LaMere rest in eternal peace with our Father in heaven.

Blue and Gold Club Donation The Blue & Gold Club is a fundraising organization of parents, alumni and friends who comprise the board of directors. This year the Blue & Gold Club’s Board of Directors, Kevin Cloghessy ’80 and Kevin O’Neill ’76, presented Athletic Director, Marianne Galfano, with a $4,000 fundraising check to donate to the Athletic Program.

Ron Partyka Ron Partyka ’50, is affectionately known as “Mr. Bishop Noll” for his continuous, loyal support at BNI. Ron can always be spotted in the stands at many events cheering for our Bishop Noll students.

Orlando Figueroa ’86 Benefit—Figs’ FightBNI alumni, family and friends gathered on February 24, 2013 to raise money for Orlando Figueroa ’86, who is battling an aggressive form of cancer. The benefit was held at Club Ki-Yowga in East Chicago with over 400 people in attendance. More than half were BNI alumni. For more information on further benefits or to make a donation, please contact Nikki Ramos-Mika ’89 at NRamos69@hotmail.com.

Class of ’61 Reunion Fish FryFor the past six years, the class of 1961 has been gathering together at a BNI Fish Fry. They thoroughly enjoy the food and the company, and are able to support Bishop Noll at the same time!

From left to right, standing: Herb Cleve (spouse), Gus Lopez, Milan “Shorty” Dotlich, Tony Guzman, Stu Seman, Jack Bogner, Emily (Shulte) Reichell, Carl Watroba, Ron Reichell (spouse), Ken Tanis (spouse). Seated, from left: Cathy Lopez (spouse), Kathy Bogner Cleve, Emily Shulte Reichell, Jo Ann Miller Bigda, Emily Watroba (spouse), Mary Knutson Tanis.

Skurka- Mysliwy FieldhouseAs our highest bidders for the fieldhouse auction at the 2012 Emporium, the Skurka-Mysliwy family has the privilege of having the BNI Fieldhouse in their name for the next 12 months.

From left to right: Tim Mysliwy (previous faculty member), current Theology teacher, Lydia Skurka ’74, Pat Mysliwy ’74, Maggie Mysliwy ’04 and Claire Mysliwy ’07. Not pictured, son David Mysliwy ’10.

20 under 40 alumni honoreesThe Times and BusINess magazine 20 Under 40 honorees not only included our principal Colleen McCoy-Cejka, but two alums as well. Julie Wiejak ’95 was honored for her efforts in starting a foundation to help high school students defray the cost of playing team sports. Matt Valuckis ’94 was honored for using his marketing skills to help non-profit organizations. Three of the top twenty—BNI is really putting their stamp on the region!

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Bishop Dale Melczek addresses students during a Mass celebrating Catholic Schools Week. Students from eight Catholic schools gathered in the BNI fieldhouse to share the liturgy celebrated by Bishop Melczek and several parish priests.