FAITH IN ACTION is love, and love in action is service. By transforming that faith into living acts of love, we put ourselves in contact with God ...
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FAITH IN ACTION
is love, and love in action is service. By transforming that
faith into living acts of love, we put ourselves in contact
with God Himself, with Jesus our Lord.
– MOTHER TERESA
SPIRITUALITY AT SHANAHAN
C AbbeyFest It was a privilege for dozens
of Shanahan students to participate in AbbeyFest
this year. The day-long faith rally ended with
a candlelight procession of the Holy Eucharist,
during which these students prayed for the
courage to bring the light of Christ to the world.
EBefore
Football Team at Mass
every football game, the football team
gathered for Mass in the school chapel.
SCHOLARSHIP AT SHANAHAN
Your Faithful Servant
I n June 2008, the Lord called his faith-
ful servant Michael Hennessy ’75 to join
Him in Heaven. Mike was a quiet man
from PJP II who would attend his alma
mater, Shanahan. Mary Kay wrote in her let-
ter to establish the scholarship, “Mike, being
who always did for others. Along with his a product of Catholic education from St.
brother John ’76, the Hennessy Brothers Cecilia to Bishop Shanahan, believed it was
company donated time and talent to Bishop worthwhile to send his children to Catholic
Shanahan High School as well as Coatesville school. He was always willing to help the
Area Catholic/Pope John Paul II Regional schools in anything that was needed. We
Elementary School. If the Lord was looking hope that by establishing this scholarship,
for a true builder, He knew Mike would help Mike’s love for Catholic school will continue
in His Kingdom on Earth and in Heaven! through the recipient and lessen the financial
Mike’s wife, Mary Kay Conahan Hennessy worries of the parents!”
’75, and sons Kevin ’00 and Robert ’04 The Hennessy family continues to honor (L to r): Kevin Hennessy ’00, Gina Mascherino
decided to honor their husband and father Mike by living the Shanahan guiding princi- Hennessy ’01 and Rob Hennessy ’04. Seated: Mary
Kay Conahan Hennessy ’75 and granddaughter
by establishing the Michael Hennessy ’75 ple “People of God; People for Others!” May Samantha Grace Hennessy (daughter of Kevin and
Scholarship to benefit an 8th grade student God bless their family for their generosity!! Gina and future alumna of the Class of 2033!!)
Shanahan Magazine design by Margaret Galeano (www.gr8pg.com). Many pictures courtesy of Jim Hetherington ’63.
Cover photo: Shanahan students put their faith into action and defended the rights of the unborn at the March for Life in Washington, DC.
A LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT
Shanahan A publication of:
Bishop Shanahan High School
Office of Advancement
220 Woodbine Road
Dear Parents, Friends,
Downingtown, PA 19335-3081
Phone: (610) 518-1300 Fax: (610) 343-6220 and Fellow Graduates
Website: www.shanahan.org
of BSHS,
Administration
Sr. Regina Plunkett, IHM ’64
President May the peace of the Risen Lord be with you all at this very special time of
Michael McArdle
Principal
year. In the words of St. Augustine we proclaim:
John DeSantis
Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs “WE ARE AN EASTER PEOPLE AND ALLELUIA IS OUR SONG!”
Teresa Dellicompagni As we move into the fourth quarter of our school year, we thank God for
Assistant Principal for Student Affairs
Robert Seefeldt
blessings received. It has been a wonderful year, Spiritually, Academically,
Assistant Principal for Student Services Athletically and Socially. The Shanahan Community is alive and well, living
Advancement Staff in faith, hope, service, and love, striving each day to truly live the challenge to
Maureen Morin, P ’98, ’02, ’05, ’08 be “People of God and People for Others.” Our prayer is that our class of 2017
Advancement Director
mmorin@shanahan.org, 610-343-6255 graduates carry this spirit with them as they go forth as Shanahan alumni.
Amy Seifert, P ’08, ’10, ’13, ’13 In this edition of the Shanahan Magazine, we would like to share with you
Director of the Shanahan Fund
aseifert@shanahan.org some of the many experiences of “Faith in Action” which take place every day
Meghan Cascarelli ’08 in our school. From the fruits of our dynamic Theology classes, to the service
Director of Alumni Affairs/Events Coordinator
mcascarelli@shanahan.org activities of our sports teams and clubs, Shanahan reaches out to others. Our
Eileen Cornell, P ’93, ’95, ’98 Holy Father has asked us all to be missionaries of the love of Christ no matter
Alumni Relations Coordinator
ecornell@shanahan.org where we are. “Faith in Action” helps our students to be just that, starting right
Sr. Dorothy Mayer, IHM here at home and stretching across continents. Our recognition as a Platinum
Data Input
dmayer@shanahan.org School by CRS, Catholic Relief Services, has offered us many opportunities to
Theresa DiBello, P ’07, ’10, ’12, ’15 become very much aware of the world around us and to respond to those in
Advancement Assistant
tdibello@shanahan.org need. It has been a blessed experience and we hope to grow in our relationship
with this wonderful organization which opens our eyes to the needs of our
Board of Directors brothers and sisters and calls forth our heartfelt response.
2016 –2017 As we prepare to welcome the class of 2021, our incoming freshmen, we
Members of our Board of Directors are volunteers that
provide invaluable wisdom, expertise and guidance to the ask you to continue being our ambassadors in the community. There is no
administration. They portray the commitment to academic
excellence that we have at Bishop Shanahan. We are better place for young people to spend the very important years from 14 to18
blessed and grateful for all their efforts on behalf of our
mission. than at Bishop Shanahan. We want to fill our halls with enthusiastic teenagers,
Leo Parsons ’78 - Chairman preparing them to be the good Catholic leaders in our communities and in the
Beth Harper Briglia, P ’12, ’17
Francis DiFonzo ’62, GP ’18 church that are so vital to our world. We have tours, shadow days, and personal
Robert J. DiSciullo ’82, P ’15, ’18
attention through our Enrollment Office. Please speak the GOOD NEWS of
Rev. John Donia
Hank Fila, P ’10, ’13 BSHS. All are welcome!
Anthony Fiorenza ’72, P ’05, ’09
James B. Griffin, P ’08, ’10, ’12, ’14, ’16 We look forward to celebrating our DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY in the
Mary Kay Hennessy ’75, P ’00, ’04 2017-2018 school year — 6o years since the doors of Bishop Shanahan High
James Hennessy, P ’11, ’14, ’16
Courtney Mulvey Lofgren ’95 School in West Chester opened in September of 1957. What a blessing!
Donna MacFarland, P ’09, ’15 Thank you for your support of BSHS. God bless you!
Gary McAneney, P ’11, ’12, ’18, ’19
Michael Miley ’94
John P. Morrissey, P ’07, ’09, ’12, ’16
Duke Schneider
Gratefully yours,
Louis N. Teti
Gunard C. Travaglini, P’01, ’03, ’05
EX-OFFICIO
Sister Regina Plunkett, IHM ’64 Sister Regina Plunkett IHM ’64
Michael J. McArdle
Maureen Morin, P’98, ’02, ’05, ’08
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 1
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
The Faith in Action Team gathers after the IGNITE 2017 retreat
FAITH IN ACTION
S T U D ENT S L E AR N T O PU T…
By Daniel Gorman ’18
F or the average high schooler, spend-
ing an entire Saturday teaching two
hundred hyper sixth-graders about the gifts
leadership ideals, teamwork skills, strong
bonds between students, and a deeper under-
countless hours during and outside school
hours to ensure that the day was a success.
standing of theological concepts. While the entire class worked on their
of the Holy Spirit would seem like an insur- On February 25, 2017, the Faith in Action respective sessions, Miss Mary Beth Devenney
mountable task. But for Bishop Shanahan’s Team (who affectionately refer to themselves ’06 employed a number of students to use
Faith in Action students, it proved to be an as FIAT) conducted a Confirmation retreat, their musical talents for the retreat band.
exciting and engaging challenge; one that IGNITE 2017, for 196 sixth-grade parishio- Under her guidance, they learned and per-
ultimately evolved into a fun, faith-filled, and ners at Saint Joseph Parish in Downingtown, formed several popular praise and worship
moving experience. PA. This Saturday morning was the culmi- songs, and taught hand motions as well.
The Faith in Action class, a junior-year nation of months of rigorous planning on They also provided music for the retreat
Theology course instituted for the 2016- behalf of the students, the PREP coordina- Mass which ended the day.
2017 school year, consists of 31 Bishop tors, and Father Donia. Created entirely by And what a day it was! IGNITE was huge-
Shanahan students that are on fire for Christ. the Shanahan students, IGNITE was full of ly successful and embraced by the retreatants
Selected from a large applicant pool and a original talks, videos, games, and music. The who had a fun and fulfilling time. Erin
lengthy application process (which required Faith in Action class was divided into four Bailey, one of the sixth-grade retreatants,
multiple short essays and the recommen- groups, each of whom worked on develop- felt on fire afterwards. “All the games and
dation from previous Theology teachers), ing a 30-minute segment that would, in talks from the Shanahan kids helped me
they have been responsible for planning and simple but clear terms, explain cardinal and better understand the virtues,” said Erin. “It
executing retreats, prayer services, Masses, theological virtues. Aimed at an audience of was a super fun experience and showed me
service initiatives and catechetical endeavors excitable 11-year-olds, each session had to how having a relationship with God is really
under the guidance of School Minister Father be interactive and engaging. Heaps of work cool and awesome!” Mrs. Katherine Thomas,
John Donia. The course fosters service and awaited the capable FIAT, who dedicated Director of Religious Education at St. Joseph
2 Shanahan | Spring 2017
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
Parish, said of the students, “Working with genuinely on fire with the light and love of engaged in the activities we had planned for
the Faith in Action students from Bishop Christ at that moment. them!”
Shanahan High School was an exercise in This display of energy and enthusiasm The success of the retreat comes down
joy, enthusiasm, and organization. From the for their faith ended up being a touching to the fact that the Shanahan students are
time the theme was set to the final blessing at moment for many of the Bishop Shanahan learning how they can spread God’s love in a
Mass on retreat day, the Faith in Action stu- students, who were moved by how well their variety of communities. “It was awesome to
dents took charge in planning and executing months of labor had paid off. “I definitely be able to spread my faith to these kids and
the events for the day.” She added, “It would didn’t expect to be as touched as I was after to see how they reacted so positively,” said
be a pleasure to work with this group again IGNITE,” said Molly DiProspero, a Faith Patrick Russell, who led the presentation
for future retreats.” in Action student, “So much work went on prudence and temperance. The class has
Every member of FIAT brought their into creating this day and to see the kids so brought upon growth in the 31 students, as
own special touch and ensured that every
retreatant felt accepted and engaged. The
day was filled with laughter and games, “It was awesome to be able to spread my
such as the human knot (which was as
challenging for the youngsters as it was for faith to these kids and to see how they
the high schoolers) and a balloon-popping
activity (which was just as loud as it sounds). reacted so positively.”
However, every activity served a greater Patrick Russell
purpose in showing the retreatants the love
God has made known to them throughout
their entire lives, and how Confirmation will genuinely excited about their faith was really well as to the lives they have touched, from
help that love to grow. At the end of the day, fulfilling.” It would seem that the FIAT stu- the retreat and the many other activities
all of the retreatants ecstatically joined in a dents got as much out of the retreat as the they have coordinated. Through the Faith in
rendition of the retreat’s theme song, “Start sixth graders did! Molly’s classmate, Meghan Action course, Shanahan students are chang-
a Fire” by Unspoken, and exhibited to their Leinhauser, agreed. “The kids were so pas- ing the way youth look at evangelization and
parents and guardians the hand motions they sionate about their faith at such a young age, opening their classmates’ eyes, as well as
had learned during the day. Each child was and it was so heartwarming to see them so their own, to the power of God’s love.
The retreat band engages the 6th grade students in song
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 3
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
FAITH IN ACTION…
SERVICE
Craft Show Volunteers
Many Shanahan students woke up early to be at school by 6:30 AM on a Saturday morning to help with the Craft Show. These
students helped vendors carry their crafts to their tables, worked at the admission table, distributed food in the cafeteria, delivered
lunches to the vendors, sold raffle tickets, and much, much more. Thank you for your service to your school!
People of God; People for Others
By the Faith in Action Theology Class all in the Shanahan community to be “People in Norristown to deliver the donations and to
of God; People for Others.” A vibrant program serve lunch. More than 50 guests were fed that
T he call to service in the Church and com-
munity is a hallmark of Catholic education.
Bishop Shanahan High School, which has been
of community is inseparable from this mission.
A service initiative was carried out this ear-
day.
When Pope Francis authored “The Joy of
lier this year at Shanahan to commemorate the the Gospel,” he challenged all in the Church to
recognized as a Global High School by Catholic first anniversary of Pope Francis’ historic visit come out of their comfort zones. He reminded
Relief Services, encourages students to respond to Philadelphia. In honor of the Holy Father’s them of his dream for the Church to be “a
generously to the needs of others. Through a love for the poor and his constant call for all missionary impulse capable of transforming
remarkable Community Service Corps Club in the Church to see Christ in their neigh- everything.” The mission of the Church, he
and active participation in numerous service bor, Shanahan students organized a charity said, is about going out into the world and
initiatives throughout the year, students are drive to provide necessary toiletries, household transforming it. How is the world transformed?
given opportunities to reach out in service and goods, and monetary donations to the two By sharing “the joy of the Gospel” which we
compassion to the marginalized and oppressed. local shelters for women which are operated have been privileged to receive. As students
Such initiatives will assist students in recogniz- by the Missionaries of Charity, the religious are challenged to be “People of God; People
ing that everyone is a child of God and deserves community founded by the recently-canonized for Others” at Bishop Shanahan, they reach out
respect and compassion. A guiding principle of Saint Teresa of Calcutta. Additionally, students in love to those in need in order to value and
the mission of Bishop Shanahan is the call for and their families traveled to one of the shelters share the Gospel message with joy.
4 Shanahan | Spring 2017
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
Cheerleaders’
Community
Service
Coach Nancy Riccardo ’63 and the
Bishop Shanahan cheerleaders helped
Fiorenza’s Food For Friends collect
excess food from vendors at the
Downingtown Fall Fest to donate to City
Gate Homeless Shelter in Coatesville.
Thanks to our cheerleaders for putting
their faith into action!
Service Project Football Players
Serving at Norristown On October 8th football players Mac Barry, Tom Waite, Jack Whalen, Zane Monroe,
Food Shelter and Dan DiBenditto volunteered their time helping to set up for the Annual Festival at
Junior Michael Mullen sits and talks with the Dilworthtown Inn which benefits the Abramson Cancer Center of Chester County
some of the homeless who came to the Hospital. The Brandywine and Greystone Auxiliaries to the Chester County Hospital were
Norristown Food Shelter for a meal. so impressed by these polite and helpful young men that they made a donation to the
Football Boosters to show their appreciation.
CSC Sends
Candy to Troops
Through the Community Service
Corps (CSC), students collected
candy and filled 150 bags which
were then sent overseas to Bishop
Shanahan alumnus, 1st Lieutenant
Jay McElvenny, and the 101st Airborne
Division of the United States Army,
currently serving in Afghanistan (see
more about Jay on page 20 in the
alumni section of this magazine). On
each bag of candy was a handwritten
note from a student thanking these
soldiers for their service to our
country.
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 5
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
Faith-filled Reflections from the Class of 2019
WAY OF THE CROSS SERVICE
By attending the Way of the Cross assembly we were able to
bring ourselves closer to God and reflect on our sacrifices and our
spiritual goals for the rest of the Lenten season.
KATIE DIETL
As we stood silently, I thought how amazing it was that this many
people believed and respected God as one body. It was truly
beautiful. I realized then that what I believe is a lot more than I
ever could imagine. It was overwhelming at first walking in that
line up to Him [for veneration], but once I touched the cross, I was
relieved and renewed. I am still grateful for that experience.
JESSICA GORR
If we want to get to the Kingdom of God we need to be like Simon
and help others along the way, especially when it is not the “cool”
or “popular” thing to do. This assembly really helped me realize It was a Tuesday morning, only two days before Spring break, as
how these stations relate to my everyday life and how I should be we filed into the auditorium. We were jittery and excited to get out
treating others. of class, but the second we entered the auditorium the atmosphere
SABRINA LINDLEY changed completely. High-schoolers filled the seats sitting quietly in
prayer or respectfully listening to the beautiful music being played.
I started to feel nervous as I have not been as faithful as I should We sat in silence until the stations began. It’s hard to describe the
have been. But as I approached the Cross, I felt all the worries that feeling within the room, but one thing was for sure - Jesus was
I had about others or myself slowly being taken away. I would go definitely present. In this moment all that mattered was us and
through anything to feel that way again. God. The sense of peace we felt was overwhelming. No longer was
HANNAH TRONOSKI this service just a reason to get out of class, it was so much more! It
was a time where the whole school came together to thank God for
I felt humbled when I realized that there were others who had making the Ultimate Sacrifice, dying on the cross. It was amazing
it worse than me, and when we venerated the cross I felt like I to see each person venerate the cross in such a holy manner. I am
was on a spiritual high. I felt so close to Jesus. It was a wonderful truly blessed to have experienced this service and I am sure Jesus
moment. was smiling down at us as we prayed to him.
DAVID CARANGAN MADELYN MORRIS
Respect Life Club
Students from the Respect Life Club
walked in the Archdiocesan Walk
for Life and later attended mass at
the Cathedral Basilica celebrated
by Archbishop Chaput. Pictured with
the Archbishop and the Sisters of
Life, are Shanahan Respect Life
Club members (l to r) Angelina Toole,
Brittany Rose, Joseph McGowan,
Sean Matkovic and Briana Rodriguez.
6 Shanahan | Spring 2017
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
Achievements Continue to Mount at Shanahan
A ll around, it has been quite a year for Bishop Shanahan High
School! While Shanahan has traditionally been known for its
excellence in academics and the Fine Arts, this year has been quite a
advanced to district playoffs, and the Volleyball team clinched the
District 1 Championship and advanced to the state semi-final round.
Golfer Ryan Conners placed 2nd in districts and advanced to the
year for the Shanahan athletic program. The athletic successes fall on State Championship match. Nineteen Fall sport athletes at Shanahan
the heels of a recent campaign to renovate the stadium with a new were named to the various All-Area Teams. Freshman Cara Shultz
turf field, a new track, and stadium lights. The Friday night football was named the All-Area Volleyball Player of the Year. Cara and her
games have become a staple of the student life at Shanahan as student sister, Renee, were named to the All-State First Team.
fans and families pack the stands for home games! H The Shanahan Winter sports teams picked up right where
H The Fall season started off strong with the Volleyball and Golf the Fall sports teams left off. Under Coach Peter Uhlman, the boys’
teams each winning Ches-Mont titles. Six of the Fall sport teams Continued on next page
Indoor Track State Champions
“To them went the medals – but to God went the glory.”
Reflection of Track Coach Peter Uhlman after winning the State Championship: “After the trophy presentation, we found ourselves in the
center of the track, the words “Bishop Shanahan State Champions” were still ringing in our ears. It still all seemed a bit surreal. The
athletes and coaches had been joined by parents and family members and we gathered in the center of the Penn State track for prayer.
All season, before we raced, the team had prayed a simple prayer; that by our actions we glorify God. We stood there just a moment
longer this time, perhaps to take in what had just occurred and then we prayed. I realized at that moment the absolute best part of
being at Bishop Shanahan was coaching young adults of faith. To them went the medals – but to God went the glory.”
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 7
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
Achievements at Shanahan Continued
Indoor Track team had an incredibly successful season culminating
in the PTFCA State Indoor Track Championship title!! Along with
the team title came individual state titles for Nate Alleyne (400m)
and Josh Hoey (800m) and relay state titles in the 4x200m and
the 4x400m events for Hoey, Alleyne, Keegan Hughes, Cameron
Dowling, Ian Alleyne, and Logan Yoquinto. Jonah Hoey, Brad
Ingraham, and Jonathan McGrory (along with Yoquinto) rounded
out the team with an impressive 6th place finish in the 4x800m relay.
Josh Hoey (800m), Nate Alleyne (400m) and the two championship
relay teams are all ranked NATIONALLY! Congratulations to Coach
Uhlman and all these young men on such an impressive season!!
Basketball team played in the Ches-Mont league championship game,
went to semi-finals in the district playoffs, and secured a berth in the
State Championship playoff round for the first time in 22 years. The
boys’ Swimming team placed 3rd in district playoffs, and freshman
Michael Robinson (above) was the District Diving Champion, securing
a place in the State Championship meet.
H Twenty out of 20 science projects that Shanahan students
submitted to the Chester County Science Research Competition
(CCSRC) received awards and some will advance to the prestigious
Delaware Valley Science Fair. Shanahan faculty member Sister
Kathleen Eagan, IHM was named to the CCSRC Coaches Hall of Fame.
H The Mathletes team finished their season as the Archdiocesan
H The Girls’ Basketball team completed a “3-PEAT” after win-
Western Division Champions and the top three scorers in the division
ning the Ches-Mont League Championship for the third consecutive
all came from Shanahan!
year. They, too, advanced to the semi-finals in the district playoffs
H Fifty-nine Shanahan students qualified to attend the DECA
and secured a spot in the State Championship tournament. The boys’
(Business Club) State Career Development Conference held in
Hershey, PA where 16 of those students were either individual
Luke Swiatek in Top 1% medalists or finalists. Juniors Michael Robinson, Ryan McLaughlin,
of the National Merit and Michael Gingrich (below) won the State Championship in the
Scholarship test Innovation Plan Category.
Senior Luke Swiatek has been The Spring season is looking good for Bishop Shanahan and they
recognized by the College Board as expect to continue this winning streak well into the future!
a 2017 National Merit Scholarship
Finalist. Out of 1.5 million high
school students who took the PSAT
test in 2015, Luke scored in the top
1% of all test takers. He plans to
major in Actuarial Sciences.
Eagle Scout John Buck
John Buck ’18 was awarded the
rank of Eagle Scout on February
11, 2017 during an Eagle Scout
Court of Honor. He is a member
of Troop 222. John’s “Eagle Scout
Project” was to lead 33 scouts over
four days in building wood tables
that were strong enough to support
multiple stacks of crates of canned State Champions in DECA Innovation Plan Category (l to r: Michael
goods at a Food Donation Center for Robinson, Ryan McLaughlin, Michael Gingrich).
the needy in Chester.
8 Shanahan | Spring 2017WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
Athletes Sign
with Colleges
Top photo front (l to r): Sam Goforth (Bryant/
Lacrosse) and Jack Whalen (West Point/Lacrosse)
Top photo rear: Anna Seifert (St. Joe’s/Lacrosse),
Alyssa Manley (St Joe’s/Lacrosse), Erin O’Donnell
(Iona/Lacrosse), Emma Velez (Delaware/
Field Hockey), Courtney Warley (Manhattan/
Basketball), Claire Sylvester (St. Joe’s/Field
Hockey), Leigh Roselli (Kutztown/Field Hockey),
Makenzie Staska (St. Joe’s/Lacrosse), Caressa
Gentile (West Chester/Field Hockey)
Bottom photo: Nate Alleyne (Georgetown/Track),
Brendan Rush (Chestnut Hill/Soccer), Jack Schell
(Dayton/Football), Jake Colby (Shippensburg/
Football)
Ted Torrance Inducted teams had a record of 128 wins, 6 losses, and 1
tie, including 62 straight unbeaten meets with 56
(Excerpts from the Daily Local News) straight unbeaten and untied meets. Ted was also a
junior varsity basketball coach for a number of years
Edward “Ted” Torrance, past faculty member and and even served as an assistant football coach for
Athletic Director, was recently inducted into the one season. His teaching career lasted even longer.
Chester County Hall of Fame as a coach. Back in It concluded with 50 years in the classroom in 2007.
1957, he had the opportunity to teach at a new His athletic involvement continued, however, with
suburban Catholic high school in West Chester called Ted serving as Athletic Director at Bishop Shanahan.
Bishop Shanahan. He jumped at the opportunity Now retired, he has been awarded the title of Athletic
and would serve as baseball coach for his first 20 Director Emeritus and continues to be a presence on
years. He was also the first cross-country coach. His campus. In his “spare time,” Ted also served as a
cross-country teams would dominate the Southern volunteer in community baseball and softball leagues
Chester County League. Over a six year period, his and was a sportswriter for the Daily Local News.
EBCO at Leadership Camp
Members of the Student Council EBCO (Executive Board and
Class Officers) met with former principal and current Archdiocesan
Superintendent Sr. Maureen McDermott during their visit to the Freshman Student Council
Pastoral Center at the Office of Catholic Education in Philadelphia Following the Freshman Class Liturgy on December 9th, fourteen
as part of their week-long leadership camp. Pictured left to right: members of the Class of 2020 were inducted into the Bishop
Dominic Forgione ’18, Moderator Mr. Joseph Aquilante, Justin Shanahan Student Council. Standing: Claire Zwann, Katelyn Farish,
Bradley ’17, Zach DelSantro ’17, Kara Sardella ’17, Patrick Nulty Nicole Basile, Caitlin DeStefano, Ella Sherman, Julia Darlak, Molly
’17, Sr. Maureen McDermott, Brendan Sweeney ’17, Brenna Mullin, Betsy Lamb, and Angelina Toole. Kneeling: Conner Bailey,
Delaney ’18, Adam Wheeler ’18, Kelly McGlone ’17, David Konnor Gike, Jonah Messina, Alex Sanford, and Matthew McGlone.
Loffredo ’19, Katherine Zwaan ’17, and Justin Amrein ’19.
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 9WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
The Fine Arts Department has had numerous students advance to
Fine Arts Spotlight archdiocesan, district, and regional competitions after rigorous
auditions and performances in chorus, band, and orchestra.
do with the Fine Arts Department and I know that they do not want to
see me struggle. Developing personal relationships with my teachers and
knowing that they want to do everything possible to help me succeed has
been the key to balancing school and music.
BSHS: What do you love most about being involved in Fine Arts at
Shanahan?
GW: The fine arts wing has been a second home to me over the past
four years. While we strive for excellence and work very hard to make
something that we’re proud of, my favorite part of Shanahan’s Fine Arts
Department is how much of family it is. From my first day at band camp
freshman year, I was welcomed with open arms and there was no ques-
tion that this was where I belonged. As my four years at Shanahan are
coming to an end, I look back and see that my best friends are in band,
my fondest memories are playing and singing on stage, and my biggest
supporters are the peers performing next to me.
GW: I’d just like to add how thankful I am to go to festivals and be rep-
Grace Wible ’17 stars in resenting Bishop Shanahan. I believe that music is a gift from God that
is meant to be shared with others and there is no place that could have
Chorus, Band and Orchestra helped me do that better than Shanahan.
G
race Wible ’17 is a student who has been able to combine her
passions, her ambitions, and her commitment to excellence
into a unique student experience here at Bishop Shanahan. She Kim Ward
has done something that music director, Mrs. Marge Campbell, believes takes 1st
is a rare statistic – she has advanced to local and state competitions and
place
performances in all areas of music – chorus, band, AND orchestra. And
to top it all off, she’s an honor student! She has been invited to perform Kim Ward ’18 was
awarded 1st Place for
in All-Catholic Chorus, All-Catholic Band, All-Catholic Jazz Band,
her art work in the
District Band, District Orchestra, Region Band, and Region Orchestra. “Alice in Wonderland-
Mrs. Campbell remarked, “Grace has seized the moment, attached her- Through the Looking
self to our standard of excellence and achieved beyond expectation. She Glass” Student Art
did so with her ‘Wible smile’ and enthusiasm for every learning moment, Contest presented by
the Domestic Violence
unlike any student I have ever known.”
Center of Chester
BSHS: How many pieces of music have you learned for these auditions County, the Chester
and performances? County Art Association
GW: Each festival usually requires you to learn one piece to audition and the National Arts
Program. Kim generously
with and about seven pieces on average to play in the performance. It’s a
donated her artwork to
little difficult to generalize though because festivals like district orchestra the center and it was
may only have three pieces but one of them will be a full symphony and auctioned off for $650
requires the same amount of practice as three or four songs combined. with proceeds going to
the center’s programs.
BSHS: How are you able to balance school work with your music? Kim was also named a
GW: This can be a very difficult thing to do sometimes but my educa- finalist in 2017 Imprint
tion is very important to me and keeping my grades up is a top priority. contest sponsored by
However, I honestly don’t know how I would do it without the help of the Wharton Esherick
Bishop Shanahan’s faculty. My teachers are very encouraging of all that I Museum.
10 Shanahan | Spring 2017WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SHANAHAN
Michael DeBoer Sings
Shanahan Well Represented in All-Catholic Chorus his way to 1st Chair
Shanahan senior Michael DeBoer
By Timothy Vander Neut ’18
has been selected to perform as the
1st Chair (Tenor II) of the PMEA All-
A ll Catholic Chorus is a group of young
men and women selected from high
schools and private academies in the
host. The hospitality exhibited by our school
and parent community was overwhelming!
Students were provided breakfast, lunch,
State Chorus; this is an All-State title!
The All-State Chorus is comprised of
240 of the best singers throughout
Archdiocese of Philadelphia. These students dinner and plenty of snacks for the Friday
Pennsylvania. Michael was also
prepare vigorously to audition for membership and Saturday practices. A formal banquet
selected to the All Catholic Chorus,
in this select group. Twenty-seven of these brought the weekend to a close. One aspect
the PMEA District Chorus, and the
98 students were our very own Bishop of the festival that amazed Mrs. Glocke was
PMEA Regional Chorus. Shanahan
Shanahan students! the display of our faithful nature evidenced by
was the ONLY Catholic high school
Guest conductor, Mrs. Jayne Glocke of the voluntary attendance of Shanahan chorus
to be represented in this region of
Penn State University was accompanied by members and their families at the Mass held
the state! In addition, Michael had a
Cheryl Manfredonia, diocesan accompanist. at the conclusion of the Saturday rehearsal.
significant role in the school musical,
The experience of working with these Mrs. Glocke described it as a “witness of
‘Anything Goes,’ is a featured singer in
professionals was truly amazing and helped our faith.” The concert was a complete
the three school choirs, serves in the
the choir not just to “sing well” but to truly success! The choir was inspiring in both
school’s music ministry, is a parish
interpret each piece and appreciate it to the their performance and in the preparation
cantor, plays on the BSHS tennis
fullest. and dedication of these young men and
team, and is a consistent honors
Each year one of the Archdiocesan women. We thank both Mrs. Glocke and Mrs.
student. Congratulations on all your
high schools is chosen to host the festival Manfredonia for bringing both their time and
accomplishments, Michael!
and this year, the privilege went to Bishop talent to the All-Catholic Chorus.
Shanahan, with Mrs. Marge Campbell as
Erin Layton –
Archdiocesan Christmas
Card Contest Winner
Erin Layton ’18, won the first ever
Archdiocesan-wide Christmas card contest
held this year. Layton’s illustration was
selected to be featured on Archbishop
Charles Chaput’s annual Christmas card.
The theme of the contest was “The Joy of
Christ’s Birth,” and her depiction of the Holy
Family was selected from over 550 entries
submitted by students in the archdiocesan
parish religious education programs (PREP),
elementary schools, middle schools, high
schools, and special education schools
throughout the archdiocese.
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 11A GLOBAL SHANAHAN
Shanahan goes Platinum
Students learn to effect change at local and global levels
F
or the second consecutive year, Bishop Shanahan
High School has been named a “Platinum School” by
Catholic Relief Services (CRS), one of only 23 high
schools across the nation to have achieved this level. Shanahan
began a partnership with CRS four years ago in an effort to
broaden the awareness of its students to issues that affect oth-
ers in the world. To reach the platinum level of achievement,
schools must meet criteria set forth by CRS, including par-
ticipation in at least two school-wide global awareness events,
mentoring other global high schools, providing lesson plans
on its activities, and taking part in a CRS core program which
enables students to learn about an issue and act on it to effect
change.
Some past themes on which Shanahan students have con-
centrated over the years are water scarcity, hunger, peacebuild-
ing, and religious intolerance. Students have researched topics
and produced public service announcement videos, created
art projects, fasted from food and social media, and collected
and distributed food and other household items, among other
activities all aimed at exposing these young adults to very seri- Cheryl Mrazik of Catholic Relief Services presents the Platinum School Award
ous issues that occur in the world and giving them an opportu- to BSHS President Sr. Regina Plunkett, IHM, and Principal Michael J. McArdle.
nity to make a difference in both local and global communities.
After Hurricane Matthew devastated Haiti in October, 2016,
students produced a video to show the damage sustained by the
entire country and collected $10,000 from Shanahan students
and families to help the Haitian community. This check was
presented to Catholic Relief Services Representative Cheryl
Mrazik at the school’s Thanksgiving Liturgy in November. Also
this year, students collected, packaged, and distributed 40 com-
plete Thanksgiving meals to local families in Chester County.
February, 2017 was designated as “Global Awareness
Month” at Shanahan and this year the students focused on
topics such as human trafficking, refugees, and unaccompanied
minors in migration. In addition to these topics, students also
researched the agencies and groups that provide aid and sup-
port to those who suffer these challenges in hopes of under-
standing how they, too, can be instruments of change. Cecilia
Suarez of CRS Mexico spoke to the students during an assembly
on the struggles of families in Mexico and the effect of migra-
tion on all of these people. Select students in the hallways made Bishop Shanahan representatives present check for $10,000 to Cheryl Mrazik
of Catholic Relief Services to help with efforts in Haiti following Hurricane
visual representations of those who are enslaved in human
Matthew. Pictured (l to r) are Shanahan Principal Mr. Michael McArdle,
trafficking or living in refugee camps across the globe. It was a
Student Council President Patrick Nulty, Cheryl Mrazik, Student Council Vice-
powerful reminder of those who suffer and need others to take President Kelly McGlone, and President Sr. Regina Plunkett, IHM.
action on their behalf.
12 Shanahan | Spring 2017A GLOBAL SHANAHAN
World Affairs
Club takes on
global issues
I
n addition to its global awareness activities,
Bishop Shanahan has a World Affairs Club
which also aims to have students become
informed about current world events. Club
President Matthew Newton said, “By taking part
in discussions at our weekly meetings, students
develop the knowledge and skills necessary to
Meal Packing with CRS
become well-rounded, active citizens of the world.
Students from across the Archdiocese gathered to pack meals destined for Burkina
Additionally, the club continually prepares mem- Faso, West Africa. Shanahan students participated in the third of five shifts where
bers to participate in events such as the International they helped pack 12,000 meals; by the end of the fifth shift, over 50,000 meals were
Student Summit and the Washington Area Model packed by all students. The global awareness event was sponsored by Catholic Relief
United Nations Conference where Shanahan stu- Services and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
dents collaborate with other students from the area
and even from other countries in order to develop
solutions for world issues.”
This year at the International Student Summit
held at Temple University, student delegates rep-
resenting diplomats, the military, and aid workers
addressed the threat of North Korea’s nuclear pro-
gram. Bishop Shanahan junior Brendan Manning
was awarded “Outstanding Delegate” for his rep-
resentation of Japan in the fight against the North
Korean nuclear threat. Manning said, “As a high
school student split between two very different World Affairs Club at International Student Summit
career paths (Computer Science and International BSHS World Affairs Club members at the International Student Summit (l to r): Chris
Politics/Law), the World Affairs Club has been an Carlin, Sean Matkovic, Justin Moritz, Amber Bryan, Kate Jursca, Andrew Briglia, Matt
amazing experience in countless ways. It has given Newton, and Brendan Manning
me a chance to meet other students from as far away
as South Africa at the various events, and to grow
as a person and student with an amazing group of
classmates and friends in the club.” Manning con-
tinued, “In a world where the course of history is
liable to change at any moment, Bishop Shanahan’s
World Affairs Club has prepared all of its members
for the fact that our actions may one day be the
spark for that historic change. It has led me to
strive to change the world for the better in any
way I can, no matter how big or small.”
During Global Awareness month, students
representing victims of human trafficking were
visual reminders to students in the hallways.
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 13ALUMNI NEWS
The Cavara family joined Fr. Cavara as he celebrated his first mass at St. Agnes Parish on May 22nd.
Fr. Mark Cavara puts his faith into action!
(Reprinted from Catholicphilly.com) of the parish, all good men. He especially think wanting to be a coach influenced me,”
remembers Msgr. Laurence Kelly, the pas- he mused. “It is ministering to people on a
M ark Cavara ’05 was ordained to the
priesthood by Archbishop Charles
Chaput for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia
tor of St. Agnes, to whom he made his first
confession and Father Peter DiMaria, who
taught him as a freshman and as a senior at
different level - providing direction, putting
people on the right path, positioning them to
do it for themselves, to succeed.”
on May 21, 2016 at the Cathedral Basilica of Bishop Shanahan. The priesthood is also a ministry for oth-
SS. Peter and Paul. Mark really wanted to be “All of the priests were devout men; I was ers, but on a different level, a sacramental
a football player when he was a kid, and if an altar server and watched what they did,” level. He came to realize this with greater
that didn’t work out, then maybe a coach or he said. clarity and after just that one year at Albright,
anything else associated with the game. Of Clearly they were excellent role models he left and applied to St. Charles. It was a
course, God had other plans. because St. Agnes has four men ordained in nine-year journey of continued discernment
He was West Chester born and raised. His recent years and two in St. Charles Borromeo that brought him to his ordination.
parents, Kenneth and Noreen Cavara, had Seminary at this time, including Mark’s older Father Mark Cavara celebrated his first
seven kids; six boys and one girl. He went to brother Kenneth. Mass on Sunday, May 22, 2016 at St. Agnes
St. Agnes grade school and Bishop Shanahan After graduating from Shanahan, Mark Church, West Chester, and now serves as
High School. enrolled at Albright College in Reading to a parochial vicar at St. Anselm Parish in
“I grew up in a devout family,” he recalls. study journalism, but also to continue play- Philadelphia. Fr. Cavara returned to Bishop
“It was organic; church on Sunday, fam- ing football. As a freshman at Albright he Shanahan to celebrate the Thanksgiving
ily rosary. Religion was a natural part of started to rethink his vocation, and slowly Liturgy along with other Shanahan alumni
our lives and we never had to think twice realized his calling to the priesthood. “I studying at St. Charles Seminary.
about it. My father was a minister of Holy
Communion, an altar server and helped out
with just about everything in the parish; we
just followed his lead. Also I accompanied
him a few times on Communion calls and
that made an impression on me.”
There would be a dramatic change in
the family in 1997. “My dad passed away
(when) I was in fifth grade,” Mark remem-
bers. “Mom took on all of the roles in the Fr. Cavara returned to Bishop Shanahan to celebrate the Thanksgiving Liturgy. With him
family and any successes we have are due to were other Shanahan alumni studying at St. Charles Seminary (l to r): Eric Tamney ’13,
Alessandro Giardini ’10, Deacon Brian Connolly ’94*, Fr. Mark Cavara ’05, BSHS School
her.” Other role models and father figures
Minister Fr. John Donia, Gus DeSimone ’07, and David O’Brien ’10. Austin Chukinas ’07
were his coaches who helped keep him on is also studying at St. Charles but was not present at the liturgy. *Note: Deacon Brian
the right track, encouraging him to make Connelly will be ordained to the priesthood on May 20, 2017. Please keep Brian in your
wise decisions. Also there were the priests prayers as he begins his priestly service.
14 Shanahan | Spring 2017ALUMNI NEWS
the program. Kerr is developing a similar
community music component outside the
prison, made up of friends and families that
will welcome the teenage inmates when they
are released. Together, the two programs will
act as a musical pipeline to help transition
teenagers back into society.
“When they re-enter society, we want
them to be with other musicians,” said Kerr.
Music Beyond the Bars “At the same time, they have teachers who
taught them in prison. So they have safe
Reprinted from www.newsworks.org Prison rules allow inmates to play instru- relationships that will help them transition.”
(Peter Crimmins) ments only when the Beyond the Bars As far as Kerr knows, no other such prison
instructors are present; that means twice a music program exists to help teenage ex-
M atthew Kerr ’11 and Eric Ammon ‘11
are teaching music to young inmates
at a city prison. “Beyond the Bars” is a pro-
week. They come Sundays and Thursdays,
“I am so excited for Thursday and Sunday to
come,” said Tyquail, 16 years old. “I get out
cons find band-mates on the outside.
gram to help kids re-enter society after their
release from custody.
my anger on a keyboard.”
Kerr, a high school teacher, started teach-
Coach Muffet McGraw
On a recent day, electric guitars, bass ing in prison a year ago at the request of ’73 Receives Ultimate
amps, keyboards, and a full drum kit are set Karen Bryant, then warden of the center
Basketball Honor
up in the gym at the Philadelphia Industrial and now deputy commissioner of operations
Correction Center on State Road. It’s sup- for the Philadelphia prison system. He was (Reprinted from phillynews.com)
posed to be a music class with instruction, teaching an after-school music program,
but if they just feel like jamming, they can
jam. “Prison is a very rigid system, very no,
attended by Bryant’s daughter. Bryant was
impressed with how quickly her daughter M uffet McGraw,
who played
basketball at St.
no, no,” said program co-director Matthew picked up the instrument, and she wanted to
Kerr ‘11. “We want to create a safe space bring that kind of instruction into her prison. Joseph’s and began
where they can guide it themselves.” Jamming inside prison is only half of her college coaching
career as an assistant
there, is part of the
Naismith Basketball
Hall of Fame’s Class of 2017, the Hall
announced Saturday.
McGraw has coached 30 seasons at Notre
Dame, leading the Fighting Irish to seven
Final Four appearances and the national
championship in 2001. She is one of only
four Division I coaches with at least 800
career wins.
McGraw’s overall career record as a head
coach is 853-267. She began coaching at
Archbishop Carroll High School in Radnor,
then continued as an assistant at St. Joe’s
before beginning her first head coaching stint
with a five-year run at Lehigh in 1982.
McGraw, 61, nee Ann O’Brien, a native
Where’s Shanahan?
of Pottsville, attended Bishop Shanahan
High School in West Chester. She and her
St. Norbert’s!! (l to r): 5th & 6th Grade ELA teacher Rob Weinrich ’04, 2nd Grade husband, Matt McGraw, a West Chester
teacher Elana Kousisis Scelzo ’04, 5th-8th Grades Academic Math teacher Kristina University graduate whose career has been
Kelly Harlan ’86 and Principal Mary Kay Conahan Hennessy ’75. in financial services, will celebrate their 40th
wedding anniversary later this year.
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 15ALUMNI NEWS
Inspired by Faith, Anthony Fiorenza ’72
gives back to his Alma Mater
Anthony Fiorenza ’72 was awarded the Shanahan Medal at the June 2016 graduation ceremony. This medal is
awarded to someone who has shown service, commitment, and dedication to Bishop Shanahan High School. Tony has
been instrumental in bringing local businesses (including his own) into the Pennsylvania Tax Credit Program and
securing donations for tuition assistance for Shanahan students. The following is his acceptance speech.
T o Sr. Regina and your colleagues, I am
grateful to you for selecting me as this
year’s recipient of the Bishop Shanahan High
School Medal. Thank you for recognizing me
with this prestigious award.
Graduates, as you pursue your dreams,
you will compose your life story. Your per-
sonal story will be comprised of the decisions
that you make. I want to share two decisions
that I made that have predisposed me to be
with you today.
Twenty years ago, Fr. Ray Jackson (God
rest his soul!) and I had a discussion. This
Augustinian priest from Villanova University
challenged me to participate more fully in
the Lord’s mission of helping the less for-
tunate. He suggested that my family and I
should volunteer at soup kitchens to feed
the hungry. I said, “Yes.” My wife, Laura, Shanahan Medal Winner
and our three children (Derek, Victoria, The Fiorenza family (l to r): Darian, Tony ’72, Laura, and Derek ’05. Missing from photo:
and Darian) began serving meals at various Victoria ’09.
homeless shelters.
In 2007, Derek started a non-profit foun- I should chair the Business Tax Credit Education that they and their parents desire.
dation - Fiorenza’s Food For Friends (also Committee. This committee works with To quote Pope Francis, “It is worth saying
known as F4) - which feeds the hungry. Next business owners, partners in professional yes to God. In Him we find our joy!”
year, F4 will celebrate its tenth anniversary practices (e.g. doctors, lawyers, dentists, I encourage our graduates to prayerfully
as it attains 1,000,000 meals served in 18 accountants), and employees who pay taxes consider saying “yes” when your Fr. Ray or
states. The coordination of many selfless vol- to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. By Sr. Regina asks you to make a decision that
unteers and numerous organizations, who following a simple process, Pennsylvania could positively impact the lives of others,
have said “yes” has resulted in a dramatic permits us to obtain tax credits and to use thus providing you the opportunity to find
difference in the lives of others. our state tax dollars to assist students-in- your existential and spiritual joy.
Six years ago, Sr. Regina invited me join need at educational institutions, including I want to thank my family – Derek ‘05,
the Bishop Shanahan High School Advisory Bishop Shanahan High School. Victoria ‘09, Darian and Laura for supporting
Board. I thought this was an appropriate time With the collaboration of committee me in these two decisions as they recognize
for me to “give back” to my alma mater. My members Beth Briglia, Jim Griffin, Sharon the need to “make the world a better place”
parents believed in a Catholic Education as Higgins, Hank Fila, and Ron Luongo, and for others and for us. As my father (God
they enrolled me at SS Simon and Jude and with the ever-optimistic Maureen Morin rest his soul!) would assert, “Keep the Faith
at Bishop Shanahan. So I said, “Yes.” and her devoted staff, we have raised over and good things will happen!” And, as my
Sister and I discussed how I could par- $1.3 million dollars which has enabled more mother (God rest her soul!) would say, “May
ticipate on the board and we agreed that than 1,100 students to seek the Catholic God bless you always and in all ways!”
16 Shanahan | Spring 2017ALUMNI NEWS
Kelly Kutchinsky Gigliotti ’95
Remembering
Sr. Helen Rapine, finds success in
IHM communications field
May 25, 2016 (Reprinted from prweek.com)
S ister Helen served as princi-
K
pal from 1991 to 1994 and elly Kutchinsky Gigliotti ’95
then later as the first president is the consummate health-
of Bishop Shanahan High School care communications pro. The
from 1994 to 2002. Sister Helen 16-year veteran of the health-
was instrumental in the planning care PR specialty is a confident
and construction of the Bishop Shanahan/Downingtown. She leader who quickly rose through
will forever be remembered as a dedicated religious, fearless the ranks at Philadelphia-based
visionary and passionate servant of Catholic Education. Tonic Life Communications to
the leadership team after joining
REFLECTIONS ON SR. HELEN: as a senior account executive a decade ago. The master of diplo-
Kind, gracious, dignified, stately, humble Saint: the macy relishes the challenge of working in a regulated industry,
essence of Sister Helen. but also counts her interactions with patients and caregivers
impacted by clients’ campaigns as among her most affirming
JUSTIN MCCARTHY ’64
moments on the job. “Those of us who work with Kelly at Tonic
Sister Helen is in Heaven today enjoying the bliss for benefit from her commitment and compassion every day,” says a
being a wonderful and productive follower of Jesus Christ! colleague.
God bless all IHM Sisters! I will remember Sister Helen in She brings in new business at an astonishing rate and retains
my prayers and pray that I, eventually, will see her face key clients with year-after-year first-rate service through an injec-
to face. tion of creativity hard to find in the sometimes-risk-averse life
sciences, pharma, and wellness spaces. She oversees about $3
FRED KOPPENHAFER, ST. AGNES ’50
million in accounts, ranging from consumer healthcare products
Sister Helen is in prayers. What a wonderful person she to investigational therapies for rare diseases. She led the pitch
was to work with!! She was the perfect ‘nun’! team that brought in the Johnson & Johnson diabetes care busi-
PETER FEDERICO, GP ’14, ’16, ’18, ’20 ness, which remains one of Tonic’s longest-standing clients. She
continues to manage the account, helping J&J through various
internal and external transitions in a hot category, while growing
the business steadily every year.
Kelly also oversaw the team that won the agency’s second-
largest account, Teva Respiratory, in 2010. The initial win was
for communications support of a single product, but the budget
tripled within the first year as Teva signed up for more. Now, six
years later, Tonic represents the entire franchise.
Kelly excels at finding new ways of engaging disparate audi-
ences and knows her way around issues. She played a critical role
in helping client RB (formerly Reckitt Benckiser) put together
a two-day thought leadership summit on vitamin and mineral
supplementation that drew global experts, a collaboration that
many participants continue to reference.
One of her first communications jobs was at a nonprofit
From Students to Teachers blood bank that set off her passion for the critical role healthcare
Carrie Giordano ’11 and Meghan Nulty ’12 took part in the communications can play. A two-year detour into journalism
Archdiocesan ‘New Teacher Orientation’ with Sr. Maureen resulted in a Promising Young Journalist Award from the National
McDermott, Superintendent of Secondary Schools at the beginning Association of Real Estate Editors for an article about New York
of this school year. Carrie is teaching at St. Joseph School in
City’s 2012 Olympic Bid. As an avid swimmer, Kelly also logs
Downingtown, PA and Meghan is teaching at Archbishop Wood
High School in Warminster, PA. 3,000-plus meters three times a week.
www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 17ALUMNI NEWS
Julia Neidigh ’14
Alumna on the road to pursuing her dreams
S hanahan graduate Julia Neidigh ’14, had
an exciting internship with Morning Joe,
the weekday morning broadcast at MSNBC .
She was able to earn the opportunity by vol-
unteering at two events in Philadelphia and
Orlando hosted by Morning Joe co-host Mika
Brzezinski. In November, 2015, Brzezinski
suggested that Julia connect with Campus 2
Career and NBC Universal and apply for an
internship.
During her internship, Julia co-produced
and assisted with production on original web
videos, and created original graphics for social
platforms. She executed Snapchat assign- worked with the Secret Service and secu- prepared her and gave her the foundation
ments in the studio and at the Democratic rity for such guests as Vice President Biden, for college. Her two biggest influences were
National Convention. During her time there, Senator Sanders and Prime Minister Tony Mr. Dave McQuiston and his History classes,
Julia updated metrics for Morning Joe Digital Blair. and Mrs. Marie Weyback in Guidance. She
properties, greeted guests on Morning Joe in Since Julia has a major in Political Science, said,”Mr. McQuiston ignited my passion for
New York City and handled guests’ logistics. she hopes to continue to work in the produc- politics and history and Mrs. Weyback had
Julia was also a show runner for Morning tion and news fields. She worked as an intern faith in me and encouraged me to pursue my
Joe at the Democratic National Convention for CBS Sports this fall and also worked in dreams, apply to Alabama and take risks.”
in Philadelphia. She was responsible for the production at CBS SEC football games. We are proud of you Julia!
management of scripts and segments and Julia feels that Bishop Shanahan truly
Christopher Plucienik ’15
It takes faith to want to “Be the Match”
for a patient with blood cancer. Since only ing serious bone pain throughout your body.
.23% of members on the registry actually Despite the pain, I was still willing and ready
donate, I walked away from the event think- to donate. And finally, on the morning of
Christopher ing that was the last time I would ever hear November 21, after five hours of needles
from Be The Match. and IV’s running in and out of my arms, the
Plucienik ’15 was
Fast-forward six months to September donation was complete. My donation was
asked to share
when I receive a call from Be The Match, immediately taken to the patient in need for
his experience as informing me that I had actually been select- a transfusion later that day.
a bone marrow ed as a match for a 66 year-old man with Today, the status and identity of the
donor. leukemia. My response was immediate: of patient is currently unknown to me. The
course I would donate. At that time, I did transfer was successful; however, I have
I n the spring of 2016, I was walking through
Villanova’s campus when I noticed a Be
The Match Bone Marrow registration event.
not know the steps involved in the donation
process but I knew if someone’s life was on
the line, I would do whatever it takes to help.
not yet been informed if he has gone into
remission. I will learn more information in
the next few months on the status of the
A volunteer told me registration would only For the five days before the donation pro- recipient.
take a few minutes and be very simple. Five cess, I was required to receive injections of I encourage everyone to join the Be The
minutes later, I had successfully joined the filgrastrim, a substance that rapidly increases Match registry by visiting www.bethematch.
registry and would be called if I was a match your white blood cell count while also caus- org.
18 Shanahan | Spring 2017You can also read
