VISIONSgrosscatholic.org

Marianist Corner

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Alumni News

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Gross Catholic Legacy Grads

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FALL

DUX ESTO BE A LEADER

An Archdiocesan College-Preparatory

School in the Marianist Tradition

3

Gross Catholic President/Principal Dr. Dorothy Ostrowski

Assistant Principal/Athletics and Activities Director Mike Dempsey

Chaplain Fr. Ryan Lewis

Advancement Director Nicole Evans

Admissions/Marketing Director Michala Jacobson ‘90

Special Events Director Dawn Sledge

Alumni Relations/ Communications Director Denise Fanslau '86

Information System Management Specialist Jim Homan

Photography Gross Catholic Yearbook Staff Dale Schwalm Jim Homan Denise Fanslau

Visions Visions Magazine is a biannual publication written and distributed by Gross Catholic High School, copyright 2017, all rights reserved. Material in Visions may be reproduced, provided prior permission is obtained from the editor. Visions does not publish items announcing or reporting on activities contrary to Catholic Church teachings.

For Advertising information, please contact the Gross Catholic Advancement Office at 402.734.2000

Gross Catholic is an Archdiocese of Omaha school and is sponsored by the Marianist Province of the U.S.

7 MARIANIST CORNER

7 BROTHER JOE BARRETT

10 ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT

18 RECOGNITION DAY AWARDS

20 2017 LEGACY GRADUATES

23 MEMORIALS

24 ALUMNI NEWS

Catholic Schools

Daniel J. Gross Catholic High School is a faith and family based community committed to developing Christian leaders through academic excellence in the Marianist tradition.

In a school, June and July represent the calm before the storm—the quiet before the eruption of noise and activity. But the fact of the matter is, a school is not meant to be quiet. As peaceful as the days

of summer are, it is the noise, laughter and chaos of students in our building that give this place life. If the truth be told, at least for this life-long educator, summers are like a time-out during the big game. You just can’t wait for the action to begin! And for us, the action is in full swing!

It is with much anticipation and excitement that we open our doors to the 2017-2018 school year. We welcome all of our students and families home—those returning and those joining us for the first time. We are excited about the hope and promise of the days ahead and we are so grateful for our continued partnership with all of you. We are all looking forward to a wonderful year filled with opportunities and challenges and, as always, God’s blessings.

Although much work has been done in preparation for this year, we at Gross Catholic are also very focused on the future and we have spent much time laying the groundwork for many years to come. With our 50th anniversary just around the corner, this is such an exciting time for Gross Catholic. A time of growth. A time of renewal. A time of innovation. A time for all to know that we are positioned for the future. As a school, we are confident in our direction and remain committed to our mission. We understand that we are never in our work alone, but rather we are joined by our parents, alumni, and community. We also know that we are very blessed with the gift of our students that have been entrusted to our care.

And so, it is the beginning of a new school year—the continuation of a long-standing tradition, and the anticipation of an outstanding future. As always, we have clear vision, we are focused, and we are ready. May God continue to bless each and every one of you and Gross Catholic High School.

Dr. Dorothy A. Ostrowski President/Principal

from the president"There are some things you learn best in calm, and some in storm."

Willa Cather

Individualized Tuition Plans — Helping Families Say YES!

We work with committed families and students, one-on-one, to arrive at a fair and feasible Individual Tuition Plan. Individual Tuition Plans are confidential, based on your family’s revenue and expenses, and respectful of your family’s needs.

To learn more about our Individualized Tuition Plans, visit our website or contact

Michala Jacobson, Admissions/Marketing Director, at 402.734.2000.

i

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Your support makes a Gross Catholic education possible for all students!

GROSS CATHOLIC

The Annual Fund is our annual giving program that invites all friends of Gross Catholic High School to invest in our mission. Gross Catholic relies on generous support from individuals, businesses and foundations to help us provide a faith and family-based community committed to developing Christian leaders through academic excellence in the Marianist tradition.

Many families desire the opportunities that a Gross Catholic education can offer their children. However, the rising cost of education, coupled with the rising cost of living, continues to challenge our families as they strive to afford Catholic education.

During the 2016-2017 school year, we awarded nearly $1.15 million in tuition assistance – more than ever before, with 75 percent of our students receiving some form of tuition assistance. It is anticipated this number will increase next year, and the years to follow.

Gifts to the Gross Catholic High School Annual Fund directly support tuition assistance for the growing financial needs of the families we serve. Your continued support means we can help every family who would like to send their child to Gross Catholic.

i To make your gift today, visit www.grosscatholic.org/annual-fund/ or contact the Advancement Office at 402.734.2000 ext. 121.

Long-time supporters of Catholic education, we are especially proud of what the administration, led by Dr. Dorothy Ostrowski and her staff, are doing at Gross High School. They are – very simply – turning out high school graduates who have learned how to study and excel in the classroom and extra-curricular activities, as we have witnessed with our own grandchildren and their friends. From the time they enter the school as freshmen, they are part of a strong family with high values who continue to grow in spirituality, character, and service. Upon graduation, they enter the world ready to make it better. Wouldn’t it be great if everyone could go to Gross Catholic?

Bill and Sherry Wachtler Grandparents of Colin ’16 and Anna ’18

President's Circle and Holy Family Legacy Society members.

The President’s Circle

The President’s Circle involves leadership giving to the Annual Fund at the $968 level or higher. 968 is representative of the month and year that Gross Catholic opened its doors—September, 1968. Members of the President’s Circle are among Gross Catholic’s most faithful donors, and they play a vital role in the effort to be certain that every family is able to send their child to Gross Catholic High School. We invite all friends of Gross Catholic to prayerfully consider joining the President’s Circle. Of course, Annual Fund gifts at all giving levels are encouraged and appreciated.

Plan ahead!

Planned giving plays an important role in the future of Gross Catholic High School and offers a lasting way to leave your legacy. Individuals who choose to include Gross Catholic in their estate plan become members of the Holy Family Legacy Society.

There are many ways to include Gross Catholic in your planned giving:

• Will

• Living Trust

• Retirement Plan or IRA

• Life insurance policy

i To learn more about the President’s Circle and the Holy Family Legacy Society, please contact Nicole Evans, Advancement Director, at evans@gcgmail.org or 402.734.2000 ext. 121.

"Being responsible is being a leader, and Gross Catholic has helped me grow in leadership this way. I will take this sense of responsibility with me, resulting in a view of the world that is more outward than inward-looking." ~ Blake, Class of 2017

"During my time at Gross, I have realized that I have a desire to serve others, and I will continue to do

community service." ~ Allisyn, Class of 2017

"I will use the leadership abilities that I developed at GCHS to lead others to the right decision." ~ Alex, Class of 2017

"I was able share my talents at Gross by leading tours in Spanish. I will share my leadership by continuing to break down language barriers." ~ Samantha, Class of 2017

"

"

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Brother Joe Barrett

Father Ryan Lewis

As some of you may know, this is my second stint as chaplain at Gross Catholic. I was chaplain here for the 2004-2005 school year. Then, Archbishop Curtiss broke my heart by appointing me vice-chancellor of the Omaha Archdiocese. You see, the promotion meant that I had to leave Gross Catholic. Thus, the heartbreak.

But the story doesn’t end there, and for two reasons. The most obvious is that I have found my way back to Gross Catholic, and I couldn’t be happier! The second reason is the one I really want to share with you. It is the story of how that one year at Gross Catholic,

so many years ago, formed so many amazing and enduring relationships which have graced my priesthood in so many ways. I think of friendships with the faculty and staff, many still on the job here today. But most of all, it is the students whom I taught and their families.

I bet half of my weddings and baptisms have Gross Catholic ties from all those years ago! One such student that I have maintained ties with is Scott Schilmoeller '06. I have had the privilege of knowing Scott since high school and keeping up with him as he joined the seminary and studied for the priesthood. He was ordained a priest on June 3 for the Omaha Archdiocese, and we are all so proud of him. Another former student, Molly Larkin '06, entered religious life as a Sister of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George. What a privilege and joy to stay in the lives of former students. The Cougar Family Spirit is alive and well. And how excited I am to be back at Gross Catholic forming new bonds a decade later with new students and their families.

cornerMarianist

Marianist Tradition: Part of Matzen's LIFE

The following article, featuring Gross Catholic teacher and alum, Kim Ernesti Matzen ’94, was published in the March issue of Marianist Family Online.

Matzen is a teacher and coach at Gross Catholic, where she is also moderator of the Marianist LIFE group. She became a Marianist Lay Affiliate in

2011 and is a regional coordinator of the LIFE summer program.

When did you get “bitten by the Marianist bug”?

Brother Joe Barrett introduced me to the loving family spirit of the Marianists when I was in seventh and eighth grade; my sister was already a student at Gross Catholic. In 2006 I went to my first summer LIFE program, and that really sealed the deal.

What do want your students to get out of Marianist LIFE?

I want my students to see Marianist LIFE as the place they can come and share their faith, as well as food and fellowship.

LIFE at Gross Catholic is for all grades, and it’s great to see students connect with people they normally don’t interact with. LIFE is a safe place where they can talk about their faith in a relaxed, open environment.

What is your favorite part of the LIFE summer program?

Seeing so many youths take such an active role in their faith! I find it very moving when I hear them praying or singing in unison at our worship services. There is such a variety of students, yet they all have in common their love of God.

This article was reprinted with permission from Marianist Family Online. Photograph by Eric Francis.

As a boy of six, it all began in St. Benedict’s School in Highland Park, Michigan. The sisters taught us “cursive” writing, little used today. My teacher started with individual letters, phrases, then sentences.

One of Sister’s favorite abbreviations was J.M.J., which we were instructed to write on top of our sheet of paper. I kept this habit for many years as an offering of my work to the Holy Family.

Years later, I have adopted a new way to honor the Holy Family. As I walk—with care for people and traffic—I unite my mind to my steps and my three friends: J.M.J.—Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.

As my sole touches the floor, my soul unites with one of three holy friends. I move upward and forward.

Following reception of the Eucharist, you are a tabernacle in motion. What a spiritual thrill it is to consume Jesus in the Cougars’ Holy Family Chapel. Each touch of the sole captures a name, and your body and soul are filled with the Holy Family.

All students at Gross Catholic have the opportunity to attend monthly LIFE

meetings where they can share food, faith and fellowship. As juniors and seniors, students

who have been involved in LIFE have the opportunity to apply to attend the summer

LIFE program in Dayton, Ohio, and thus become LIFE Core Team members

for the following year back home.

"His mother said to the servants,

'Do whatever he tells you.'"

(John 2:5)

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F R O M O U R

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Soccer Team Stands Together

Gross Catholic is an Archdiocesan High School sponsored by the Marianist Religious Order. As in every Marianist School, all Gross Catholic students and staff pause daily to recite the 3 O’Clock Prayer, which begins, “Lord Jesus, we gather in spirit at the foot of the cross, with your Mother and the disciple whom you loved.”

Girls' Varsity Soccer Coach Jim Homan decided to use the image of Mary standing at the foot of the cross as inspiration for his team. For over 10 years during girls’ soccer games, the substitutes who aren’t playing on the field do not sit on the bench; they stand up during the entire game.

When a player is substituted, they can come and sit down on the bench for a time, but they too ultimately stand up to support the team.

Homan wants the players to put Mary in a special place in their hearts. According to Homan, “It is one of our unique traditions at Gross Catholic that sets us apart from other schools. We want all of our players to really feel the power of the Virgin Mary while they compete for our school. For this team, standing up is a tremendous way to demonstrate our school’s devotion to Mary.”

“We stand for our teammates to show our support, just as

Mary stood at the foot of the cross and supported her son

in his time of need,“ Homan notes. “We stand to inspire

the team, to get the team excited and to demonstrate our

love for them. We are one.”

WHAT DOES A MARIANIST EDUCATION MEAN TO ME?

Front row (pictured left to right): Becca McCartney, Viveca Power, Meg Rice; Middle row: Casslyn McNamara, Anna Vigneri, Kinley Holm, Molly McCoy; Back row: Jesse Beacom, Nathan Wilson, Grant Huck

Ten Seniors served as LIFE Core Team members during the 2017-18 school year, planning and facilitating the monthly large group meetings for students at Gross Catholic. The following are these senior students’ responses when asked what their Marianist education means to them.

“My Marianist education is what makes Gross Catholic! The Marianist charism truly creates a community of building each other up. Love and friendship is alive and well, and has made all the difference in my high school experience.” ~ Molly

“My Marianist education means, in two words, solidarity and family. Our education is centered around community, equality, and justice. This kind of education gives me the opportunity to grow with my classmates intellectually and faithfully.” ~ Nathan

“My Marianist education means that we are one. Gross is like my second home. If I ever need anything, I know I have someone to talk to here – no matter if it is a student or a teacher. We are one big Cougar Family!” ~ Kinley

“My Marianist education means that a faith-filled community is alive at Gross. It means that it’s fun to go to a LIFE meeting and talk about my faith and current events and social issues. It makes me proud to be called a Marianist.” ~ Grant

“Being involved in the Marianist culture here at Gross Catholic has been such a blessing to me. I feel that faith is strongly encouraged, and it is woven into almost everything we do here. My faith has grown strong through the Marianists, and I am excited to continue my faith life into college and future career. I am so thankful to have gone to school here, and I am leaving knowing that I have my Cougar Family to support me.” ~ Becca

“My Marianist education ensures that I am being educated in everything! It is all-inclusive, an education of the mind and the spirit. My teachers care about me, not just as a student, but as a person. Everyone here is dedicated to the service of others.” ~ Cassly n

“My Marianist education means being connected and involved with the rest of the Marianist community. It’s such a blessing to be able to experience the Marianist culture every day. It means joining my fellow classmates and teachers and everyone at Gross in the Marianist way.” ~ Meg

“My Marianist education means I am

privileged to go to school with teachers and

peers who believe in the importance of family spirit. I can always find someone willing to help

me out.” ~ Anna

“I think the Marianist education really emphasizes community. I learned that we are never alone in life. Not only do we have God supporting us, but we also have the entire Gross Catholic and wider Marianist community rooting for us.” ~ Viveca

“My Marianist education means being ready for any change.

I learned to trust God, no matter the

obstacles.” ~ Resse

5 CHARACTERISTICS OF A MARIANIST

EDUCATION:

1 EDUCATE FOR

FORMATION IN FAITH

2 PROVIDE AN INTEGRAL,

QUALITY EDUCATION

3 EDUCATE IN

FAMILY SPIRIT

4 EDUCATE FOR SERVICE,

JUSTICE, AND PEACE

5 EDUCATE FOR ADAPTATION

AND CHANGE

we are one

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CURRENT

Amazing Results from Gross Catholic STEM Teams

The Gross Catholic STEM Program continued to grow and flourish during the 2016-17 school year.

The VEX Robotics Team became three-time tournament finalists and finished 11th place at the state championship. Robotics Team members included Kyle Culp ‘17, Abbigail Clark '18, Katie Sloup '19, Matt Rinkol '18, Jilli Linder '19, Matthew Moon '19, Will Ryder '19, Lily Schow ‘20 and Nora Baker '17.

The Engineering Team worked with professional architects and engineers to complete a design project that was

presented at the Society of American Military Engineers Student Mentoring Program competition. This year the team reviewed the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM: STEM plus Art) teaching spaces at Gross Catholic, developing a plan to consolidate those spaces for a more efficient STEAM program. Members of the Engineering Team included Grant Grzywa ‘17, Sam Mora ‘17, Nathan Wilson ‘17, Ted Raven ‘17 and Thomas Webster ‘17.

The Innovation Team worked this year on a note placer application called Statuo. With this mobile app, users could place and view notes using augmented reality and geo-location. The team competed in the UNO Innovation Cup competition and presented their ideas to a panel of judges. The team finished sixth out of 12 original teams competing. Innovation Team members included Blake Dalmas ‘17, Jacob Schaffart '17 and Jonathan Silva '17.

Students in physics classes built balsa wood trusses and competed against other high school students in the Metro Truss Bustin’ competition. Out of 84 trusses built, Gross Catholic physics students placed seventh of the top 10, and won the first, second and third place awards. First place winners were Grant

Grzywa ‘17 and Nathan Wilson ‘17; second place winners were Kinley Holm ‘17 and Luke Johnson ‘18; third place winners were Izzy Krupa ‘18, Sophia Barnes ‘18 and Ashley Jacobson ‘17.

Aspirations in Computing is an initiative of the National Center for Women & IT (NCWIT) designed to increase women’s meaningful participation in computing careers by providing encouragement, visibility, community, leadership opportunities, scholarships, and internships to high potential technically inclined young women. Gross Catholic’s 2017 Aspirations in Computing Award Winner was Katie Sloup '19.

Many thanks to Mr. Steve Hamersky who has dedicated the past

to developing Gross Catholic’s outstanding STEM Program. His unparalleled devotion and commitment to the Cougar Family has impacted the lives of thousands of students and community members. We are very blessed to have him!

GCHS STEM Students to Travel to China

Five Gross Catholic students traveled to Beijing, China, August 19-27, 2017. Members of the Robotics Team were invited to attend the World Robot Conference and compete in an "In The Zone" tournament by building and driving a robot of their own invention. The goal is to promote cultural exchange as China attempts to adopt the CREATE Open Robotics program. In addition to taking part in the robotics competition, the students, several parents, and GCHS teacher, Mr. Steve Hamersky, were able to take in historic sites including the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. Students who traveled to China included Jilli Linder '19, Abbigail Clark '18, Will Ryder '19, Andrew Jesus ’21 and Emma McCoy ’21.

Students Witness Robots at Work in the Real World

The Gross Catholic Robotics Team visited Creighton University Medical Center—Bergan Mercy in May to witness first-hand the Da Vinci Robot, a surgical robot used for minimally invasive surgical procedures.

spotlightACADEMIC

GROSSCATHOLICspotlightACADEMIC

Academic Decathlon Finishes Strong!

Congratulations to Mrs. Teresa Dorwart and the Academic Decathlon Team for their 10th place finish nationally in the medium school division of competition in April.

Andrew Galardi ‘17 won a gold medal as the top scorer from Gross Catholic. Additionally, Eric Liu ‘18 won a silver medal for his second place finish in math, and Darien Talkington ‘17 won a silver medal for his second place finish in science. The team had an outstanding year in 2016-17 and is already gearing up for the new school year’s competition.

COUGARS

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Gross Catholic’s Dux Esto Drama received three Nebraska High School Theatre Awards related to their production of Godspell!

Gross Catholic was awarded "Outstanding Ensemble" for Godspell.

Kinley Holm ‘17 received the award for Outstanding Actress in a Supporting Role for her portrayal of Celisse. Taylor Gardner ‘17 was given the Outstanding Achievement in Design Award for his scenic design.

Our winners received their honors at the Nebraska High School Theatre Awards Showcase on June 8th, at the Holland Performing Arts Center. Representatives from Dux Esto Drama, Emily Jacobson ’18 and Delaney Henton ’18, who participated in the Showcase Ensemble, worked with a Broadway choreographer and performed opening and closing numbers. Many thanks go out to generous benefactors who supported Emily and Delaney throughout the three-day rehearsal and their stay at Creighton University.

These were tremendous honors for the Cougar drama program, and we are very proud of Mrs. Jackson York and all who participated in the many drama productions this past year.

spotlightACADEMIC

GROSSCATHOLICCOUGARSDUX ESTO DRAMA DOES IT AGAIN! Gross Catholic is very proud of the Class of 2017!

Taylor Gardner ’17 and Luke Blankman ’17 work behind the

scenes in the sound booth. Gardner was played a key role in all productions as our talented light and sound coordinator for the past four years. We thank him for his dedication and contribution to the success of Dux Esto Drama.

95% of the Class of 2017 went on to continue their education at colleges and universities.

GRADUATED AFTER RECEIVING A QUALITY, INTEGRAL EDUCATION IN THE MARIANIST TRADITION.

2 STUDENTS went on to serve their country in the Military.

74% of the class received scholarship offers totaling over $9.1 million.

15 full tuition scholarship offers.

1 STUDENT received an ROTC scholarship.

1 STUDENT received an Air Force Academy appointment.

NHS 2017

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GROSSCATHOLICCOUGARSNew Advancement Director Joins the Cougar Family

Gross Catholic High School was pleased to welcome Nicole Evans as the new

Advancement Director on May 15. Evans comes to Gross Catholic with a strong

background in community program management and fund development both

in the educational system and in the corporate setting. She previously served

as the Development Director for the Omaha Catholic School Consortium where

she directed strategic planning for institutional advancement, exceeded fund

development goals, and developed a comprehensive annual fund program.

Evans holds a Master of Healthcare Administration degree, a Bachelor of Science

degree in journalism and communication, and is currently working toward her

certificate in fundraising management at the University of Nebraska - Omaha.

President Dr. Dorothy Ostrowski notes, “Nicole is a wonderful addition to Gross

Catholic and we are so happy she joined our Cougar Family. Nicole came to

us with a great deal of knowledge and experience in development work and a

great commitment to Catholic education. We appreciate her leadership in our

Advancement Office."

Evans and her husband have two boys and are members of St. Gerald Parish,

where the boys attend school. The family also has a rambunctious Labrador

Retriever named Lucy.

"I am honored to join the Gross Catholic family and I

look forward to continuing my work to support Catholic

education in our community, says Evans. "Gross Catholic

High School is such an inviting place and I am inspired by

the dedication of the staff and families to this great school."

In her free time, Evans volunteers at St. Gerald School and has chaired and

captained many nonprofit endeavors including the American Cancer Society

Relay for Life, American Heart Association Heart Walk, and March of Dimes

Walk for Babies. She also enjoys time with her family, running, swimming, yoga,

reading and cooking.

We are blessed to welcome Nicole to the Cougar Family.

We are excited to welcome three

new teachers to the Cougar family

for the 2017-18 school year.

Justine Sacco Sullivan ‘08, joined the faculty as our new Strength & Conditioning coach and physical education teacher. Danielle

Mendick Lyons ‘97 returned to her alma mater as our new our new part-time Math teacher. Joe Kmiecik joined our faculty as our new English & Journalism teacher and Yearbook Advisor.

Additionally, Dr. Dorothy Ostrowski assumed the dual role of President and Principal of Gross Catholic for this school year, and Julie Reed

McNamara ’91 moved to our Counseling Department as our new College Counselor. Finally, Tom

Van Haute ‘08 took over as Gross Catholic’s Head Varsity Football Coach, and continues to teach in the Physical Education Department and serve as the Academic Success Coordinator.

The Cougar Family is looking forward to great things this year with so much talent and enthusiasm!

GROSS CATHOLIC CELEBRATES

decades of dedication Congratulations to three members of

our faculty who have served the Cougar

Family with tireless dedication for several

decades. We would like to extend our

gratitude for all they have done over the

years, and for of all of the talents they

have shared with Gross Catholic students.

“I can no other answer make, but, thanks,

and thanks.” ~ William Shakespeare

Mr. Steve Hamersky

Mr. Jim Homan

Mr. Rick Sloup

Front row (pictured left to right): Alex DeWerth, Megan Allen, Sam Egermier, Kellee Halliburton, Carmella Monico and Brendon Chonis; Middle row: Ruby Ngoc Huynh, Erin Pietryga, Casslyn McNamara, Mimi Awad and Josie Egermier; Back row: Jeffrey Cortez, Luke Blankman, Trevor Yanovich, Jack Miller and Grant Grzywa.

King Jeffrey Cortez and Queen Ruby Ngoc Huynh

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2017 PROM ROYALTY!

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GROSSCATHOLICCOUGARSMass and Musical: Fun for All Ages

Gross Catholic Student Ambassadors, Dux Esto Drama performers and the

GCHS Band teamed up with fifth graders throughout the city and residents

from Saint Joseph Tower for our third annual Mass and Musical Day in April.

Gross Catholic welcomed 310 fifth graders from 10 Catholic schools and our

friends from Saint Joseph to enjoy our award winning production of Godspell.

Michala Jacobson, Admissions/Marketing Director notes, "Mass and Musical

is a unique and special recruitment event at Gross Catholic which allows us to

share our faith with fifth graders during an all school Mass and then demonstrate

the importance of fine art programs at the high school level. Gross Catholic Dux

Esto Drama Department has become one of the best in the state of Nebraska,

and we are happy to share this with future Cougars at such an impactful age."

GROSS CATHOLIC STUDENTS SERVE IN KCSeveral Gross Catholic students spent a week in March at Kansas City’s Jerusalem Farm, providing service to disadvantaged communities in the area. During the week, the students focused on Jerusalem Farm’s four pillars: service, prayer, simplicity, and community.

MIDDLETON HOUSE: BACK-TO BACK COUGAR CUP CHAMPION

For the second year in a row, Middleton House came out

on top during the year-end House Field Day competition.

All four houses competed throughout the year, accumulating points for

academic accomplishments,

service activities and

attendance at events in order

to promote family spirit.

During Field Day, all students

participated in activities

that ranged from artistic to

academic to athletic. The

day would not have been

complete without the favorite

four-way tug-of-war! Teachers

and students alike enjoyed

the casual day, which never

fails to be a welcome break

from routine and a community

building experience for all.

CeleBration 33 was “powered up” this year with the Powers siblings as event chairs. Pictured with Freddie are Sara Powers Merrill ‘91, Liz Powers Schow ’96, Carrie Powers, Tim Powers ’88, and Don Merrill. Not pictured: John Schow. Gross Catholic is very grateful for the support of the Powers Family and their contribution to an outstanding CeleBration 33!

Gross Catholic High School officially “kicked” off its soccer season on the new Stan Macaitis synthetic turf field on Thursday, March 16.

First Soccer Season on Campus

During the inaugural game, the varsity

girls played Duchesne, and at half

time, Gross Catholic welcomed back a

number of Cougar alumni soccer players

to be honored for their dedication and

commitment to the soccer program.

Gross Catholic boys and girls varsity

soccer teams were thrilled to have the

opportunity to play at home during this

past season. Girls' Soccer Coach Jim

Homan explains, “It is a dream come true

to be playing on campus after all these

years of scheduling off campus home

games at Norris, Papillion, Bellevue,

Springfield, LaVista or Seymour Smith.

We now have a top-notch facility to show

off. The surface is fantastic!”

field day 2017

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SPIRIT SCHOLAR AWARDThe Spirit Scholar Award is presented to a male and female student from the freshman, sophomore and junior classes for academic excellence and promotion of the Cougar Family Spirit.

Pictured left to right: Freshmen: Atticus Stansbury and Abby Dostal; Sophomores: Maggie Heltzel and Michael Monico, Juniors: Carmella Monico and Alexander Hughes

2017 STAN MACAITIS IRON MAN & WOMAN AWARDThis award is named after Stan Macaitis, long-time coach and athletic administrator at Gross Catholic, and is presented to senior athletes who have competed in three different sports during all four years of high school.

Pictured left to right: Grant Grzywa, Garrett Meyer, Beau Larsen, Maya Lewis, Emily Riha, Meg Rice, and Michaela Johnson

GROSS CATHOLIC SPIRIT SCHOLAR AWARDThis award is presented to a male and female senior for academic excellence and promotion of the Cougar Family Spirit.

Grant Grzywa and Margaret Rice

MOST REPRESENTATIVE STUDENT

The Most Representative Student for Exemplary Christian Lifestyle Award is presented to a male and female student from the freshman, sophomore, and junior classes.

Pictured left to right: Juniors: Tyler Todd and Sophia Barnes; Sophomores: Scott Collins and Isabel McCartney, Freshmen: Nolan Lewandowski and Sophia Egermier

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP FINALIST

Jill Ruane

OMAHA WORLD-HERALD KEY STAFFER AWARD

Kaylie Bowen

WOODMAN OF THE WORLD SOCIETY AMERICAN

HISTORY STUDENT AWARD Izzy Krupa

REBECCA A. CLEVELAND FINE ARTS AWARD

Nora Jean Baker and Jill Ruane with Mrs. Becca Jackson-York and Mrs. CaSandra Johnson

ORTMAN SCHOLARSThe Ortman Scholar Award, named for one of the school's founding donors Mrs. Louise Ortman Gross, is the highest academic award given to graduating seniors who have attained a cumulative grade point average of 4.0 or higher.

Front row (pictured left to right): Samantha Mora, Xuan Lena Le, Viveca Power, Kylee Schultz, Maya Lewis, and Becca McCartney; Middle row: Tim Bonham, Casslyn McNamara, Emilie Steinauer, Kaylie Donahoe, and Anna Vigneri; Back row: Meg Rice, Grant Grzywa, Thomas Webster, Nathan Wilson, and Jill Ruane.

MAN AND WOMAN OF THE YEAR Man and Woman of the Year is awarded each year to a male and female senior who demonstrate the gift of self, leadership, family spirit, concern for others and the school, academic success, and basic integrity.

Trevor Yanovich and Viveca Power

BROTHER LEO WILLETT, S.M. AWARD

This award is presented to a male and female senior student for four years of outstanding service, generosity and gift of self to the development of the Cougar Family.

Samuel Buck and Rebecca McCartney

STRENGTH & CONDITIONING ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

Pictured left to right: Meg McCoy, Matthew Sakalosky, Elissa Warden, Ben Yanovich, Will Ryder, Sydney Nickerson, Connor Weis, Anna Campbell, Alex Knicky, Emily Mendick, and Ashley Jacobson

2017

Freshmen: Elissa Warden, Matthew Sakalosky

Sophomores: Meg McCoy, Ben Yanovich

Juniors: Anna Campbell, Sydney Nickerson, Connor Weis

Seniors: Ashley Jacobson, Emily Mendick, Alex Knicky

Most Improved Strength & Conditioning Athlete of the Year: Will Ryder

20 21

CLASS OF 2017 LEGACY GRADS

Legacy Grads Continue the Cougar Family Tradition. Gross Catholic is proud that 38 graduates from the

Class of 2017 joined 52 alumni parents as members of

Gross Catholic’s Alumni. The Legacy families united

for a photograph at St. Cecelia Cathedral before the

Baccalaureate Mass on Friday, May 19. Graduation was

held on Monday, May 22 at the Holland Performing Arts

Center. Each 2017 graduate joins over 8,200 alumni.

As we approach Gross Catholic’s upcoming 50th

Anniversary, the Cougar family—and Cougar spirit—

continues to flourish.

Congratulations to Gross Catholic’s Class of 2017.

LEGACY GRADS

Kailey Marie BowenDaughter of Lisa Skradski Bowen 1990

Andrew Thomas GalardiSon of Luke Galardi 1984

Alex Patrick FanslauSon of Denise Novotny Fanslau 1986

Josephine Colette EgermierDaughter of Rick Egermier 1988 and Maureen McKernan Egermier 1987

Taylor James GardnerSon of Sean Gardner 1989 and Mary Sue Dempsey Gardner 1989

Kinley Joelle HolmDaughter of Joel Holm 1991 and Melissa Monzingo Holm 1991

Grant Daniel Grzywa Son of Dan Grzywa 1977 and Michelle Pivovar Grzywa 1977

Justin Marshall GrabowskiSon of Jill Grabowski Kersey 1997

Grant Joseph HuckSon of Robb Huck 1988 and Amy Mickells Huck 1990

Beau William Larsen Son of John Larsen 1982

Alexander Paul KnickySon of Phil Knicky 1986 and Diane Skryja Knicky 1986

Ashley Jeanette JacobsonDaughter of Michala D’Ercole Jacobson 1990

Rebecca Ann McCartneyDaughter of Carmen Dineen McCartney 1986

Emily Clare Mendick Daughter of Robert Mendick 1990 and Andrea Strauss Mendick 1990

Casslyn Marie McNamaraDaughter of Mark McNamara 1990 and Julie Reed McNamara 1991

Molly Anne McCoyDaughter of Kevin McCoy 1983

Miriam Sadah AwadDaughter of the late Alexis Erway Awad 1976

Timothy Crail Bonham Son of Loraine Crail Bonham 1980

Lukas Jeffrey Blankman Son of Joe Blankman 1983

Jesse Anthony Beacom Son of Bonnie Vankat Beacom 1977

Jonathan Matthew MillerSon of Matt Miller 1984 and Mimi Kinsella Miller 1983

Thomas Andrew OrtnerSon of Brian Ortner 1991

Emma Rose NovotnyDaughter of Katie McElligott Novotny 1982

Austin Wade MolineSon of David Moline 1993

22 23

CLASS OF 2017 LEGACY GRADS

Alexander Dalton PetranickSon of Brian Petranick 1985

Margaret Mary RiceDaughter of Bill Rice 1986 and Debbie Egermier Rice 1986

Logan Alexander PleissSon of Donald Pleiss 1989

Erin Nicole PietrygaDaughter of Dave Pietryga 1982 and Christy Murphy Pietryga 1985

Emily Mary Riha Daughter of Scott Riha 1991 and Tristen Flott Riha 1994

Kylee Lynn SchultzDaughter of Lynn Reed Schultz 1988

Emma Anne Ryder Daughter of Peter Ryder 1984

Andrea Aguilera RoblesDaughter of Susan Aguilera Robles 1982

Mitchell John ShukisSon of Dan Shukis 1983 and Marge Jachym Shukis 1982

Brian James UlrichSon of Jane O’Brien Ulrich 1983

Allisyn Marie TaylorDaughter of Traci Hallman Taylor 1996

Mary Jane SwertzicDaughter of Chad Swertzic 1983

Olivia Aleksandra WatsonDaughter of Gaile Reskevicius Watson 1983

Trevor Cole YanovichSon of Rick Yanovich 1991 and Christine Dineen Yanovich 1990

We invite you to honor your loved ones by enrolling them in Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Memorial Association. This special memorial, created in 1983, serves two important purposes:

s It is a meaningful way to remember loved ones daily in the Masses and prayers of the students and faculty of Daniel J. Gross Catholic High School.

s It affirms your belief in Catholic education by supporting the students of Gross Catholic. Gifts to the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Memorial Association are accepted throughout the year as we support your prayer intentions.

The Cougar Family prays for the enrolled member of the OLPH Memorial Association daily. Please join with us as we prayerfully remember our loved ones, especially those who have proceeded us and live in God’s presence. Memorials reflect those enrolled from January 15 through June 30, 2017.

If you would like to receive OLPH Memorial envelopes to

enroll a loved one, please contact the Advancement Office at 402.734.2000.

In Honor ofJim & Sharon Barger Jack and Marge Egermier Chuck Pattavina Mary J. Rosales Justin Smith

In Memory ofMichael Antoniak Paul Bast Marilyn Bertino Jerald Billesbach Brian J. O'Neill '83 Jim Buscher Karen Butler Jack Chandler Virginia Chap John (Pat) Collins Margaret Coniglio Bernard Costello Kelly Mackevicius Cuevas '92

Leo Danser Thomas Decker Bonnie Dusek Steven Paul Ehrenberg Marie Talbitzer Eliker '75 Elizabeth (Lisa) Gibilisco ‘88

Allen C. Ellison Edward A. Ficenec George Makris Vera Gittemeier Sister Julienne Gorzalenski

Helen Handzlik Janice Hanna Dean Hascall Jr. Skip Hempel Scott Hickey '99 Virginia Bruno Hogworth Thomas L. Houlton Jr. Joseph Huss '05 Mary C. Incontro James Chaloupka Margaret Janda Dr. Thomas Kiefer Jerry Kleber Ed Kleine Patrick Konwinski Olivia Rose Kopiasz Don Krukow Jr. George M. Kurmel Shannon Larson Susan Laughlin Mike Lemmers Marvin F. Maher Charles Marasco Paul Matukewicz Richard Matukiewicz Brooke McRoberts Jerry A. Meier Bro. Gene Meyerpeter Cela Miller Mike Moseley Marcia Schram Nelson '72 Eileen Okemura Frank Paladino Rev. David Paul

Timothy Pawloski Kimberly Payne '92 Michael Thomas Peters Joseph Philbin ‘74 Margaret Pitner Fritz Pyle Bill Rahn Phyllis Rahn Agnes Reiser Matthew Ryder Kate Sanuik Dorothea “Dottie” Schmid Thomas Sedlacek Emanuel Shavlik Richard Shea Michael Skryja '01 Doris Sledge Adeline Snyder Chester Stefanski Tom Sterba Mary Ann Sus Otto Sutej Rose Urbanski Bonnie Vance Sam Vazzano Catherine Vecchio Margaret A. Welsh Bro. Pierre Wietkamp Bro. Leo Willett Jean (Tonie) Canova Willis '76

Robert Young Joshua Zabrowski

memorialsOur Lady of Perpetual Help Memorial Association

Please pray for our recently deceased members of the Cougar Family. May the souls of the faithfully departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Marcia Schram Nelson, Class of 1972

Joseph Philbin, Class of 1974

Tonie Canova Willis, Class of 1976

Marie Talbitzer Eliker, Class of 1975

January 15 - June 30, 2017

Kelly Mackevicius Cuevas, Class of 1992

Kimberly Payne, Class of 1992

Scott Hickey, Class of 1999

Michael Skryja, Class of 2001

Sandy Kraft Gahan, Class of 1974

Photo not available

24 25

Trish Doebel ’01 married Shawn

Heine at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic

Church on August 6, 2016. Included

in the wedding party were Shelly

Plambeck-Bridgford ’95, Hans

Doebel ’00, and Ross Doebel ’04.

Amanda Novotny ’09, daughter of

Rick Novotny and Katie McElligott

Novotny ’82, married Trevor

Stephens of Ogden Iowa, on May

27, 2017, at Sacred Heart Catholic

Church. Emma Novotny ’17 was

the maid of honor, and the wedding

party included Rachel Poutre, Rachel

Brunkhorst, Haley Novotny ’10,

Rachelle Stephens, Jordan Stephens,

Bryce DeMoss, Tucker Mittag, Nick

Comer, Keaton Lundquist, Kory

Laurdisen, and Joey Novotny ’12.

Amanda and Trevor live in Boone, Iowa.

Trevor is a seed technician at Monsanto

and full time farmer, and Amanda

teaches second grade at Sacred

Heart Catholic School.

weddings

Ally Riedler ’08 married Dain Kjar ’05

at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church

on August 13, 2016. Gross Catholic

Alumni included in the wedding party

were Amanda Welna ’08, Tabitha Udron

DeBoer ’08, Kris Kurz ’08, Emily Kock

Totusek ’08, Breanne Kjar Fanciullo ’07,

Blake Kjar ’11, Mark VanMoorleghem

’05, Chris Kocol ’05, Matt Crotty ’05,

and Danny Duhacek ’05.

births

Patrick Wachter ’05 and Chelsea

Kropp welcomed their first child, Chloe

Elizabeth Wachter, on May 30, 2016.

Patrick says, “She’s a ball of fun and

loves to laugh and smile.”

Mike Kaipust ‘02 and

Jennifer Kaipust ’03

welcomed a new daughter,

Mara Renee Kaipust, on

October 24, 2016.

Lindsay Slama Vodicka ’01 and

husband Brent, along with children

Jaxon, Emersen and Callen, welcomed

Easton Paul Vodicka on March 13, 2017.

Gross Catholic’s Father Scott Ordained to Priesthood Father Scott Schilmoeller ‘06 (pictured with Archbishop George Lucas) was ordained to the priesthood on June 3, at Saint Cecelia Cathedral in Omaha. He is the thirteenth graduate of Gross Catholic to enter religious life. Father Scott attended the University of Nebraska - Omaha, the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, the University of St. Thomas and St. John Vianney Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, and Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.

Father Scott has been involved in youth ministry including Totus Tuus and Lifeteen. He has also participated in pastoral work in hospitals, prisons, Hispanic ministries, and has been very active in FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students).

Father Scott’s first assignment as a priest is in Norfolk, Nebraska, at Sacred Heart Parish.

Father Scott shares, “I am excited about being a priest and

participating in people’s lives, not only during sacramental

moments, but in the day-to-day relationships with people.”

Sis Receives Notre Dame Fellowship

Matthew Sis ’12 was recently accepted to the Ph.D. program in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Notre Dame. This is a five-year program consisting of coursework and teaching requirements in the first two years, followed by independent scientific research culminating with a Ph.D. thesis. In addition to being accepted to the program, Sis was awarded the Arthur J. Schmitt Leadership Fellowship, being one of only fifteen incoming graduate students to receive this award, university wide. This prestigious fellowship covers full tuition, health insurance and provides a cost of living stipend for the duration of program.

Sis, who is hoping to focus his research on biomedical technologies explains, “The two projects I’m most interested in right now are one that’s working on diabetes therapy, and another that’s developing food allergy diagnostics and treatments.” He also states, “My senior year at Gross is when I decided that a career in STEM might be a good fit for me. AP Chem with Mr. Schmitz and AP Calc with Mr. Sloup were some of my favorite classes, and I knew I wanted more of those types of courses in college. The humanities are important too. The critical thinking, writing, and presentation skills I developed on the speech team and in the History and English departments at Gross still show today.”

Sis completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in December. He would like to eventually work for a company that guides medical technologies through the financial and regulatory system in order to make an impact for patients. He believes it would also be exciting to work for one of the start-ups that are coming out of Notre Dame Chemical Engineering.

A Tradition of Cougar Spirit

The Robles family poses with their Gross Catholic graduation caps and diplomas following graduation of the Class of 2017, as Andrea, the youngest member of the family, officially became an alum.

Matt Sis stands with his poster for his project, “Ionic Driven Embedment of Lipid Nanoparticles in Polymer Films for Local Therapeutic Delivery,” at the NDConnect Undergraduate Research Competition at Notre Dame.

Pictured from left to right: Salvador Robles ‘10, Gabriella Robles ’11, Susan Aguilera Robles ‘82, and Andrea Robles ’17.

26 27

on award-winning projects with Emerging Terrain, the Anti-Defamation League, and the Council Bluffs Park System, including River’s Edge Park. Each project allows him to intensely research form, material, and site. They also provide an instant design-to-built-project process that allows ideas to come to fruition faster than with traditional design-bid-build projects, which often take years to complete. These research-based projects also speak to his interest in architecture as built form that has the ability to blur lines between disciplines and methodologies.

His most recent endeavor, the AIA Omaha lecture series, conflates his efforts in community activities and intellectual pursuits. Organized in collaboration with Ross Miller and other AIA Omaha members, the 2017 lecture series is a thought-provoking forum for design thinking. Bringing in award-winning international and national architects, such as Mike Nesbit of Morphosis in Los Angeles and Kai-Uwe Bergmann of Bjarke Ingles Group in Copenhagen, the role of these lectures are two-fold. First, they are an opportunity for professional architects and the general public to participate in architectural discourse. Secondly, the lectures provide a voice for a range of architectural practices that are advancing disciplinary boundaries.

"While the series may seem hyper-niche, the visiting lecturers produce

a diverse range of project types. These architects discuss the scholarly and tactile impact of design beyond simply making buildings. As award-winning content creators, the lecturers stimulate the public and challenge architects to aim their work to an elevated level of design excellence.

“It is always good to hear professionals talk about their design process and work,” says Emily Andersen, owner of DeOld Andersen Architecture. “But it is even more important to have lecturers come to Omaha that are truly challenging assumptions. The lectures bring the potential of a meaningful

conversation that allows us to see into the creative process of other design professionals. And so I really appreciate the work that AIA does, as well as Design Alliance Omaha to help bring that discourse here.”

In all of his work, Conzett is running against the boundaries of the discipline with a keen understanding that traditional definitions of architecture and the built environment deserve to be challenged and pushed forward. “Opportunities such as professional work with [Alley Poyner], design-build exhibition and installation commissions, and the AIA Omaha lecture series are all ways for me to continue to experiment with and better understand the practice of architecture,” he says.

Alum Featured in B2B Magazine: Bringing Meaningful Design Conversations to Omaha Andrew Conzett and the AIA Omaha Lecture Series

Architecture as an intellectual endeavor extends far beyond brick-and-mortar structures. For designer Andrew Conzett ‘05, architecture is a form of problem-solving and way to rewrite immediate questions about the built environment through a culturally sensitive lens. Early in his career, he positioned his curiosity at one of Omaha’s most creatively focused firms, developed numerous discipline-blurring projects, and helped curate a robust series of lectures with the Omaha chapter of the American Institute of Architects. This fusion of localized projects and international discourse is one that not only pushes his own practice forward, but also challenges existing norms and perceptions of regional architecture.

Conzett grew up in Omaha. Since a young age, he was inspired by his father, a civil engineer at a large international firm, and his mother, who was consistently involved with social service and nonprofit organizations. As a soon-to-be licensed architect, Conzett is a cocktail of both. He has always been keenly interested in art and landscape, both of which were influential in his childhood years and helped to inform his atypical response to the “I-always-wanted-to-be-an-architect” story ubiquitous amongst peers (many say it was from building with LEGO bricks as a child). During high school [at Gross Catholic], a design competition piqued his interest. This community-focused extracurricular project, which combined multi-disciplinary teamwork and a design-based approach, prompted him to apply to the College of Design at Iowa State University.

While at Iowa State, his intense studio assignments were mixed with conversations and projects with artists and creative thinkers. Working alongside a diversity of artistic studies pushed him to see the multiplicity of architecture. During his final year in the architecture program, one of Conzett’s classmates responded to his non-binary projects by asking, “Do you want to be an installation artist or

architect?” Conzett did not know how to respond; however, this prompt of either/or has now become a defining feature of his practice.

While studying, Conzett diversified his architectural coursework with internships at the Omaha Public Library and the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, where he interned with artist Sean Ward and curator Hesse McGraw. After graduating in 2010, he moved to Omaha and was soon commissioned to design an office pod installation at the headquarters of Bozell. The project resulted in a spatial intervention that was recognized by the AIA Central States Region’s Excellence in Design Awards for “Detail Honor and the Interior Design Best of Year Award for Budget Interiors.”

His interests in a diverse range of project types brought him to his current position at Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture in 2011. At the collaborative open studio in north downtown where architects work alongside interior designers, graphic designers, artists, and engineers, Conzett is staying busy outside the office as well.

His CV for research-based and experimental projects is dense. Stepping one foot outside the firm, Conzett has worked collaboratively

For Conzett, “Contemporary

architecture practice requires

thinking about new methods and

materials, and thus inspires me to

seek out unique project types as a

way to expand my knowledge of

design and the built environment.”

We want to hear

FROM YOU!Please send us your latest alumni news and photos. Share your stories and pics with your fellow alumni and the rest of the Cougar Family!

Contact Denise Novotny Fanslau ’86, Alumni Relations/Communications Director, at fanslau@gcgmail.org or 402.734.2000 ext.123.

This article, written by Alex Priest, was reprinted with permission

from B2B, published by Omaha Magazine LTD.

Photograph by Bill Sitzmann.

volunteer YOUR TIMEMembers of the Cougar Family are extraordinarily generous with their time and talent. Gross Catholic relies on our families, alumni, and friends to continue our tradition of excellence. Consider volunteering to help with any of our many events or student activities.

To volunteer at Gross Catholic contact Dawn Sledge,

Special Events Director, dsledge@gcgmail.org or 402.734.2000 ext.124.

i

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

Cougar Golf Classic

Homecoming Tailgate Party

Annual Fund Phonathon

Recruitment Committee

Post Prom

Daytime Office Help

Lunchtime Volunteers

Athletic Concessions & Ticket Sales

CeleBration, Dinner and Auction

GeoGarden

Alumni Board

Winetasting

402.346.0888 6210 South 118th St.

Omaha, Nebraska 68137 www.elmanprint.com

Phil Knickyphil@elmanprint.com

28 29

Joanne Rayer Rush ’05 is the owner and creative director at Thriving Botanicals in Houston, Texas. Her company is an Interior Plant Design & Maintenance company. She received her background in Horticulture from Kansas State University in 2010.

Rush was contacted by ESPN before the Super Bowl, to design and rent arrangements for their Super Bowl coverage in Houston, Texas. She used succulents, agave, and bromeliads to decorate the desk and did the install on a Tuesday morning while the stage was being set up. Rush states, "It was a lot of fun to see all the behind the scenes work, and it was such an honor to be a part of Super Bowl 51."

Gross Catholic Alumni Embody

Dux EstoPatrick Kirkland ’06 graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha on May 6, with a Doctor of Medicine Degree. In June, Kirkland began a six-year general surgery residency program at the University of California, Los Angeles, Harbor Hospital. He also married Sierra R. Masters on May 11, in Evergreen, Colorado, whom he met while an undergrad at the University of Hawaii.

Kirkland feels that Gross Catholic helped him build the foundation needed to pursue the medical profession. A three sport athlete at Gross (swimming, football and baseball), Patrick was also a scholarship swimmer at the University of Hawaii (UH)—Manoa, Honolulu, from 2006-2011, and graduated from UH with highest honors with a degree in microbiology.

Bryan Herek ’91 was promoted to Director of Chowan University’s Critical Thinking Program and also recently received tenure as an Associate Professor of English from Creighton University.

Joshua Yambor, born and raised in Omaha, graduated from Gross Catholic in 2000 and earned his Bachelor of

Science degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 2004. He was later awarded his Juris Doctorate degree, with distinction, from Creighton University School of Law. Following eight years of working on the defensive side of insurance litigation, Yambor recently joined the firm of Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf and Lathrop, where he now enjoys working with individual plaintiffs, as opposed to the large insurance companies typical of defense work.

Yambor states, “What is interesting about the plaintiff side is how you’re able to juggle the complexities of each case, while always keeping in mind you have a client to take care of and help walk through this difficult process. Most clients have never been through a legal case before, and that can be a traumatic event in and of itself. I want my clients to know that I am not only looking out for their well-being, but I’m always going to treat them fairly to help them do what is best for their present and future interests.” Yambor considers himself fortunate to work in a firm whose motto, “The door’s always open,” rings true for him because he gets to work with colleagues who he feels he can turn to for their insight and expertise. He believes that he actually gained this understanding—that he needed help from others in order to be successful—during his high school years at Gross Catholic.

It was during high school, in fact, that Yambor was inspired by a different motto—the Gross Catholic motto “Dux Esto”—which has impacted his personal and professional growth throughout his life. As a leader at Gross Catholic, he served as Student Council President and participated in cross country, track, wrestling, newspaper, Operation Others, and Peer Helpers. He was also a reliable “impromptu” MC for school pep rallies. Yambor feels that the smaller class sizes at Gross made it possible for him to be involved

in so many activities and made him feel very invested in his high school experience. While a student at Gross Catholic, Yambor learned that “the community as a whole is just as important as the individual’s focus or goals.” He adds, “Gross Catholic didn’t only focus on the extremely gifted students with the most potential. The administration and teachers did whatever they could to help every student be successful.” Yambor felt proud to wear orange and blue because he “knew what Gross Catholic stood for.”

He feels that “Gross was, and continues to be, a staple in the community,” and this is something his employer Hauptman O'Brien "strives to be." Yambor feels that the firm demonstrates its commitment to the community by implementing the Safe Ride Home program, which provides free rides home during the holiday season—to deter people from drinking and driving—and to victims of domestic violence all year long. He feels that he is fortunate to work in a place that cares so much about the individuals and the community as a whole.

Yambor, his wife, and three children continue to be active members of the Gross community and support Gross Catholic in many ways. The Yambor family has recently moved into a house that has been in their family since the ‘60’s. Yambor says they are trying to “take the torch and run with it.”

While a student at Gross Catholic,

Joshua learned that “the community

as a whole is just as important as the

individual’s focus or goals.” He adds

that “Gross Catholic didn’t only focus on

the extremely gifted students with the

most potential. The administration and

teachers did whatever they could to help

every student be successful.”

Yambor Inspired by

at Gross Catholic

The Area’s Most Experienced Personal Injury Law Firm.

JOSHUA J. YAMBORAttorney at Law

402.390.9000OMAHA: 1005 S. 107th Ave., #200BELLEVUE: 11507 S. 42nd St., #105jyambor@omahapersonalinjury.comomahapersonalinjury.com

Class of 2000 Student Body President. DUX ESTO!

One might say that these words could also be applied to Joshua’s commitment to continue spreading the Cougar spirit.

30 31

Townley Receives UNO’s Young Alumni Achievement Award

Established in 2014, UNO’s Young Alumni Achievement Awards recognize outstanding career achievement, active community involvement or exceptional service to the university by graduates 40 or younger.

Wendy Townley ’97 is Development Director of the Omaha Public Library Foundation. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism (2002) and a master’s in communication (2011), both from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO).

Townley previously worked as a campaign manager for the Steier Group and was assistant director of media relations at UNO. She has also worked for Cox Communications, Leslie Kline Lukas & Associates, and elsewhere. Since 2008 she has been an adjunct faculty member in UNO’s School of Communication.

Townley has also written for numerous publications, including UNO Magazine,

and in 2010 authored “Nerdy Thirty,” a collection of 13 humorous essays.

Her professional affiliations include membership with the Greater Omaha Young Professionals Council (chair in 2016), Leadership Omaha, Women’s Fund Circles, Optimist Club of Omaha, and the Omaha Press Club.

UNO’s School of Communication presented her its Rising Star Alumni Achievement Award in 2006, and the Nebraska chapter of the Public Relations Society of America named her Newcomer of the Year in 2005. This article was reprinted with permission from UNO Magazine.

’95 Grad Runs the US for MS

Deanna Badura Tysdal ‘95 successfully ran 160 miles across the United States in only six days as part of MSRunTheUS relay—an annual 3,100-mile relay run across America for Multiple Sclerosis.

There are 18 segments total, spanning from Las Angeles to New York, thus 18 runners on the relay team. Once selected, each runner spends months training and fundraising as they prepare to devote one week on the road with the nonprofit while completing their segment’s miles. Donations are given to fund research for a cure through the National MS Society and the Center Without Walls, and to assist those living with disability from MS. Tysdal's segment of the relay extended from Vernal, Utah, to Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

Tysdal, who hated running as a teenager, began to run for her brother, who was diagnosed with MS at age 19. Later at age 28, Tysdal herself was diagnosed with the disease and decided that, rather than wallow in the diagnosis, she could live life to the fullest. She often admits, “Being diagnosed is the best thing that could have happened to me. I began to work to live, and not live to work. I don’t let the little things get me down because I know things could be worse. I continue running to push my body and keep it at the highest level of strength I can.” Tysdal credits her ability to continue running half marathons and competing in triathlons to amazing support from her husband, children and friends.

Tysdal is a true inspiration to the Cougar Family and an embodiment of what it means to “Be a leader.”

Matt McWilliamsFinancial Advisor146 North WashingtonPapillion, NE 68046Bus. 402-339-0087Fax 888-862-9167TF 866-339-0087matt.mcwilliams@edwardjones.com

www.edwardjones.com

First Choice for the Serious Long-term InvestorCOMPLIMENTARY PORTFOLIO REVIEWS

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Cougar Alum Leads Midland Dance Team to Victory

Trish Ryan ‘04, coach of the Midland University Dance Team, led the team to win the first-ever NAIA National Dance Competition in March. Ryan, the 2017 Coach of the Year, explains, "This win for our team truly marks a moment in history. The NAIA is the first collegiate athletic association to recognize cheer and dance as official sports. There have been many coaches that have put countless hours into making this possible, and I am so thankful that the executive committee and championship managers have made this possible."

Ryan is a member of the NAIA Competitive Cheer and Dance executive committee and has been at the forefront of the movement to make competitive cheer and dance official championship sports. She also led her team to win the GPAC Dance Championship for the fourth consecutive year.

Coach Trish Ryan (far left) makes history with Midland Dance Team.

Sr. Mary Jo Kremer ‘72, Franciscan Sister and Gross Catholic alum, visited Gross Catholic junior theology classes in March, following her mission work in Haiti, in order to share her story and broaden the students’ understanding of the Haitian people’s struggles.

Mary Porterfield ‘88 was featured in Chicago Woman Magazine as an Artist of the Week in January.

Porterfield has exhibited her art both nationally and internationally at the Phoenix Art Museum, the San Diego Art Institute,

the Kohler Arts Center, the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, the Rockford Art Museum, the Lim Lip Museum in South Korea, and other museums in Illinois and Wisconsin. She teaches at Northeastern Illinois University and received a Master in Fine Arts degree from Arizona State University.

To read more about Porterfield, go to http://chicago-woman.com/profiles/artist-week-mary-porterfield/.

Matt Hall ’09 is currently serving as a combat medic in the Nebraska National Guard. Gross Catholic is especially proud of our alumni who are serving our country.

Tim Bogatz ’00 recently accepted a position as Resource Development Manager at a faith-based nonprofit called Mosaic in Omaha. Mosaic offers residential and vocational services to people with intellectual disabilities and helps provide opportunities for them to enjoy a full life. Bogatz notes, “I feel very blessed to be in this position and wanted to share it with a community that is dear to my heart—one that also prepared me spiritually to begin a career in this field. I am very thankful to Gross High for that.”

Renee Bergeron ’10 recently graduated with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DTP) degree from Missouri State University. Renee’s mother, Joan Sobetski Bergeron ’83 earned her degree in Physical Therapy (PT) at Rockhurst University in 1987—30 years earlier. Congratulations to mother and daughter—both Gross Catholic Alumni—earning PT degrees exactly 30 years apart.

grosscatholic.org7700 South 43rd StreetBellevue, NE 68147

2017 COUGAR CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT

Monday, September 18, 2017 Eagle Hills Golf Course

2017 HOMECOMING WEEKEND

Friday, October 6, 2017

Homecoming Tailgate at Gross Catholic

Homecoming Varsity Football Game at Bryan Stadium

upcoming

35 members of the Class of 2012 gathered in July to reconnect and share memories during their five-year reunion.

Saturday, October 7, 2017

Homecoming Dance at Gross Catholic

All alumni and their families are welcome to attend all Homecoming weekend events.

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PaidOmaha, NE

Permit No. 1388