NEW PRINCIPAL Meet our - and Assistant Principal - Catholic Central High School
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Meet our
NEW PRINCIPAL and Assistant Principal
C AT H O L I C C E N T R A L H I G H S C H O O L | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
SCHOOL NEWS | ALUMNI NEWS | ADVANCEMENT NEWS | FOUNDATION NEWS
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Catholic Central community,
We do ourselves a favor in looking back, even upon a year so
challenging, because in doing so we gain the clarity needed for a keener
vision of the future.
Last year at this time, Catholic Central had recently received the uplifting
news that we had become STEM Certified, recognizing the fulfillment of
a dream several years in the making. One of the leaders of that effort,
Dr. Catherine Molloseau, helped Catholic Central launch that effort by
helping us define what we meant by STEM learning: “an active process
that encourages the individual to problem solve, think critically, invent,
produce, persevere, collaborate, empathize, and design,” no matter the
academic discipline. Because we believe the arts play a strong role in
this mindset development, we made sure to include the “A” in STEAM.
SPRING 2021
Vol. 7 No. 1 | INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL I love that Catholic Central has developed a STEAM mindset, not instead
of our Catholic vision but because of it. Looking back at the definition,
Catholic Central High School I see a picture of our God: a collaborative triune designer, the ultimate
319 Sheldon Blvd. SE inventor who eternally perseveres, yet can empathize with us and know
Grand Rapids, MI 49503 us. In cultivating in ourselves and in students the facets of God, we can
616.233.5800 live the fullness of our mission: challenging students to know and love
God, seek knowledge and truth, respect the dignity of each person, and
contribute to society through leadership and service.
Looking back, I see that God was preparing us for 2020 years in
advance. We were called to be ready for something we could not have
fully anticipated. We have all needed to problem solve, think critically,
invent, produce, persevere, collaborate, empathize, and design this year.
Yet these skills don’t all come naturally. They must be cultivated, and as
2020 has shown, they often grow out of struggle.
In the past year, our constant problem solving and inventing has
demanded perseverance, and we’ve needed empathy and collaboration
in greater measure. Maybe we’re one year more practiced in becoming
saints. Peter Kreeft, in his essay “What is a Saint?” (1987) explains that
“a saint is a seer, one who sees what’s there. A saint is a realist. A saint
is also an idealist. A saint embraces heroic suffering out of heroic love. A
saint also embraces heroic joy.”
2 As we anticipate a better time to come, we pray that we have sharpened
our vision and our stubborn capacity for love and for joy. In doing so,
we are living the call to be the saints our world so desperately needs.
As you read this issue, I hope that you find some joy to reflect upon and
something that brings you hope.
With love and anticipation,
Tiffany Marrinan
Principal
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021
3 Photo by Steve Southerington INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021
Meet
Tiffany Marrinan Catholic Central’s Principal
4
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021
CC: How long have you been at CC and what did you do often emotionally draining, this time in our lives provides a
before accepting the Principal position? unique opportunity to be the Church at its best. At CC, I am
Tiffany Marrinan: I started teaching English at Catholic Central surrounded by people doing the work of saints in how they care
in the 2000-2001 school year. Up until August 2019 I taught for students. This means I have to take care of them as best I can.
English every year, but I’ve had a few other responsibilities
throughout my time here. I have also taught Chemistry and AP As we are finally starting to be able to see a future beyond the
Research, served as an administrator from 2003-2006, and was virus, my next goal will be discerning how to best move forward.
the head of the English Department at two different times. Our staff is incredibly strategic and innovative, and we’ll need to
determine what pre-pandemic practices we return to and what
CC: What helped you decide to accept the position of pandemic-driven strategies are worth continuing.
Principal of CC?
Tiffany Marrinan: In my time at Catholic Central, I’ve formed This might sound strange, but my next goal is to actually set
many relationships with great people. While returning to goals with our new President. When we have that leader in place,
administration wasn’t really part of my plan, it was the CC family Catholic Central will be able to embark on a new strategic plan
that inspired me to serve in this role. There is also a strong that honors our past and moves us into a new and exciting future.
leadership team at CC, and without the wisdom and expertise
in our staff and school board. I’m not sure I could have even CC: What is your favorite part about CC?
considered it. In addition to my love for this community, my life Tiffany Marrinan: I love the vast diversity of perspectives here.
circumstances allow me to understand various perspectives. From Peter DeWitt gave me the image of our “wide tent” to describe
my background as a teacher, I can understand the challenges our community of faith. We have many healthy debates here at
teachers face, and I can sympathize with parents of teenagers, CC, and we need to continually practice civil discourse with one
having two of my own. another as we push ourselves to be better. Ultimately though, we
have a God, a Faith, and a mission that unites us and allows us to
I believe that the mission of our school supports what parents see difference as positive. We can look back upon generations of
dream for their children. In serving as principal, I hope that I can our CC family to bear witness to what God did through them,
listen to various perspectives and find balance in striving toward a and they continue to support us in our current struggles, which
common goal. will ultimately benefit future generations. This is a beautiful
community that illuminates the many aspects of the God we
CC: The 2020-21 school year is far from ideal. How have you serve.
managed the ups and downs of this unique year?
Tiffany Marrinan: I’m lucky that the chapel is not far from my CC: What should parents/community members know about
office. It’s a place of simple, profound silence and presence. I’ve this new model?
shed a few tears in prayer there this year in my tense moments, Tiffany Marrinan: The new administrative model doesn’t add any
but there are also moments of a peace that passes understanding. positions; it helps focus them. I’ve learned this year in trying to
balance the responsibilities of both an external-facing leader and
I also tend to experience God’s love most profoundly through an internal-facing leader, that efforts will not be as fruitful unless
my interactions with people, all of whom bear his image. There they get the depth of attention they need to thrive. Truly defining
is so much love and wisdom in our CC family, and even though these roles will result in greater overall strength of the school and
we challenge each other sometimes, someone is always there to CC family.
encourage, provide an idea, or just to listen.
CC: What are some of your goals as the new Principal of CC? 5
Tiffany Marrinan: Right now, my most urgent goal is to support
people and bring them together in such a way that the CC family
doesn’t just persevere through this pandemic, but it emerges
from it in a way that amazes and inspires people. Despite all
of its challenges, which for all of us have been significant and
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021
Meet
Peter DeWitt Catholic Central’s Assistant Principal
6
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021
CC: How long have you been at CC and what did you do In our academics, in the House System, in our day-to-day,
before accepting the Assistant Principal position? how are we shaping our student’s character? How are we being
Peter DeWitt: I have been at Catholic Central for nine a community of virtuous individuals who are supporting one
years. During most of my time at CC, I taught History and another and taking those skills to build relationships with God
Government. There were also short periods of time where I also and others? Down the line, I would like to focus on how to equip
taught English. When the House System was in the beginning our students with skills to help keep their faith alive even after
stages, myself and a handful of other teachers were heavily they leave high school and move into college and adult life.
involved in trying to implement that system. We quickly realized
that there needed to be a director and four deans for the House CC: What about CC makes you want to be a part of the
System. We saw an opportunity to unite the position of Director community?
of the House System and Dean of Students because the two Peter DeWitt: Once I started working at CC, I just wanted to
positions had so many similarities, it just made sense. When the stay because there are so many great things going on here. We
new combined position opened up I felt God telling me this is have a great administration that I feel keeps moving in the right
what I was called to do. We changed the name of the position to direction. Updating our mission statement, having Mass weekly,
be Dean of Student Life. We wanted to emphasise the importance updating our curriculum, and continually trying to make our
of guiding the life of the school, and not just the discipline aspect academics top of the line are some examples of what makes CC
of the position. The first year was great, and then the 2020-21 great. I haven’t even gone into athletics. Our athletic programs
school year came around. Tiffany Marrinan and I were faced with are spectacular and that is a whole other side of the school that
the difficult task of doing what needed to happen in order for is amazing. I think the fact that it is a solid institution and has a
students to safely return to school. With Tiffany Marrinan taking wealth of tradition, it is something I want to continue to be a part
on the new Principal position, it naturally fell into place that I of. Most importantly, I continue to feel like God is telling me that
would take over as Assistant Principal. this is the right place for me.
CC: What does the new role of Assistant Principal look like? CC: What is something you would like the CC community to
Peter DeWitt: It is a lot of the same responsibilities as the Dean know?
of Student Life. Much of the position will be monitoring the life Peter DeWitt: One of the biggest things that I would always
of the students, attendance, some academics specifically when want people to know is that our administration has done our
kids are struggling and need guidance or direction, and directing best to be transparent and open. We want our students, staff, and
the House System. The House Deans are doing a great job and I community to feel comfortable to contact us. I hope that it gives
see myself more of an administrator of the House System. I make confidence to the community that you have faith filled people
sure things are moving smoothly and advise when they need it. I in leadership positions who are working to do the best for our
see the main change is more of an elevated position in supporting students and the school. We never want to make decisions in an
teachers and overseeing Campus Ministry and the Athletic isolated way. I think this partnership will only get better with this
department. new model, especially once we have a President in place.
CC: What are your hopes and goals for this new position?
Peter DeWitt: I took the position of the Dean of Student Life
because I felt like CC could improve in regards to the atmosphere
and culture for our students. My goal is to tie everything we do
back to our mission statement and that we are a community that
is Christ centered. So how do we help form our students? How do
7
we help to shape their character? The House System and Coram
Deo is one way we are trying to put this idea at the center. That is
the whole reason I want to be a part of the administration because
that is where you make change happen. As a teacher, you can do
that in a limited capacity. However, I felt God challenging me to
do more. That is why I decided to move into this new position.
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021
Maximizing Our Measure
Physically Distant, Socially Connected Part II:
By Shomari Tate, Director of Equity and Multiculturalism
Cougar Who would have thought that 2020
would be the year that it turned out to
Love
Faith be? I remember the last Catholic Central
school-wide event before the pandemic
changed life as we know it: the 2020
Black History Month assembly. I felt
such a profound sense of pride in the
progress that was taking place inside of
Journey
Equity Honesty
God Inclusion
the community of Catholic Central. The
assembly took place on March 6th, 2020,
and a few short days later on March 12th,
Opportunity life as we knew it shifted.
Multiculturalism Community
Initiatives Physically Distant
At first, the change was abrupt,
Transparency Socially Connected
unfamiliar, and uncomfortable, but we
know that God is still faithful even in the
midst of great challenge. Several weeks
later, our community, our state, and our
nation came face-to-face with one of
the most significant cultural reckonings
of our time. On May 25th, 2020, a
convenience store employee called 911
and informed them that a man was
paying for his items with a counterfeit
$20 bill. Seventeen minutes after the
first squad car arrived, George Floyd was
unconscious and pinned beneath three
police officers, showing no signs of life.
For eight minutes and forty-six seconds,
George Floyd had a police officer’s
8
knee on his neck, which resulted in his
unfortunate and unnecessary death.
Given the digital age that we live in, we
all saw a man be robbed of his humanity.
Although Mr. Floyd losing his life was
an unspeakable tragedy, it allowed our
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021
community, the city of Grand Rapids, the for my work at Catholic Central as its to share with us negative cultural
state of Michigan, and the United States Director of Equity and Multiculturalism. encounters they may experience as a
as a whole to have a serious moment of I am not here to advance any sort of means of obtaining tangible data of what
introspection. political agenda, and I am not here to is happening in the day-to-day lives of
act as a ‘placeholder’ for progress. I am our students.
I wish to be as honest, open, and here to advance the ideals that draw us
transparent here in addressing the near to our faith in God. In Paul’s letter DEI Office Hours - I am available to
reckoning that happened within our to Galatia, he says, “But the fruit of students throughout the day who have
community in the weeks following the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, cultural concerns and subjects they would
George Floyd’s death. The leadership kindness, goodness, faithfulness, like to discuss in detail. These meetings
team and I felt it to be of the utmost gentleness, self-control; against these have been extremely beneficial for our
importance to speak to the larger issue things, there is no law.” These fruits of school as we continue to assess and gauge
of racism that still persists today, which the Holy Spirit are the very things on the school’s cultural needs.
revealed that these wounds have been which Catholic Central’s multicultural
felt by students under our own care. initiatives are modeled. Any act, attitude, The Higher Power Initiative Professional
We believed it necessary to send a call behavior, or ideology that goes against Development Series - In October, the
to action and statement of solidarity to the fruit of the Holy Spirit works against Catholic Central faculty/staff began our
the Catholic Central community to not building a culture of God’s Kingdom. DEI professional development journey
only acknowledge the tragedy that had together with a workshop titled “Sweating
befallen Mr. Floyd, but to also begin This school year has been different on the Small Stuff.” This workshop aims
taking the proactive and necessary steps many fronts. In year two of leading to equip educators with the necessary
of addressing racism of all forms within Catholic Central’s cultural charge, it is of skill sets and tools to adequately manage
our own community. the utmost importance that we strive for psychological and emotional responses
institutional excellence. This means that to culturally and racially tense situations.
A short time after releasing Catholic we make culturally relevant decisions, This training series has also begun at
Central’s institutional statement, former support our diverse communities, Saint Paul the Apostle school and will
students from various generations took communicate thoughtfully and begin at Saint Thomas the Apostle and
the initiative to voice their concerns inclusively, and work to allow dynamic West Catholic High School.
about the cultural climate that they accessibility for our constituents.
experienced as Catholic Central students. There are so many exciting diversity,
The remarks shared by the students Some initiatives that have taken place this equity, and inclusion initiatives that we
were similar to my own experience, and year include the following: have in store, and I cannot wait to share
aided me in planning cultural initiatives them with this community. To those
for the upcoming school year. I want “Culture Weekly” - A weekly update to who support these efforts, I sincerely
to take the opportunity to thank all of our staff, student body, and community thank you from the bottom of my heart.
our alumni who felt courageous enough on the cultural initiatives taking place in If you would like to partner with us
to be transparent about the things they our schools, the greater Grand Rapids in fostering an equitable and inclusive
experienced at Catholic Central High area, the nation, and globally. atmosphere at Catholic Central, please
School. Your honesty and transparency consider giving to our Diversity, Equity,
are truly appreciated. Diocesan Wide Bias Incident Reporting and Inclusion Initiative or to the Willie
Tool - In collaboration with the Diocese Butler Encounter Diversity Scholarship.
In the first installment of Maximizing of Grand Rapids Inclusion workgroup, As always, if you have any comments or 9
Our Measure, I shared very personal and we will be implementing a bias incident questions, please feel free to email me at
painful details about my encounters with reporting tool that will be accessible to shomaritate@grcatholiccentral.org.
prejudice while a student at Catholic students throughout the entire Diocese
Central, which is why it is so important of Grand Rapids. It is our hope that this May the peace of our Lord and Savior,
to express the essence of and reason tool will give students the opportunity Jesus Christ, be with you always.
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021
A
TREASURED
TRADITION
10
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021By: Josh Aldrich, Rob Bonner, Morgan Green, Cheryl Lambert
One of our most cherished traditions at Catholic Central is Christmas
Families. For over 50 years the students of Catholic Central have helped
to provide Christmas for thousands of families. Each student’s homeroom
provides a specific family with gifts of clothing, toys and food. During this
special time, the students embrace their family and experience the joy of giving
as they personally provide for their own member of the family.
Going into this year, we knew that so many things would look different,
including Christmas families. Although its spirit remained the same, students
were unable to purchase specific items for their Christmas Families. Instead
of wish lists composed of toys, clothing, and household items, children were
asked to select stores to which they would like gift cards. These requests
were shared with our student body in their Coram Deo Groups. Each group
supported different children from each family, with the intention of providing
the gifts and spiritual encouragement through prayer and Christmas wishes.
Everything was ready, and the students were excited to begin the Christmas
Family drive. Then, suddenly, we were moved to full remote instruction, and
additional support was needed.
As a result, we decided to leverage the GiveCampus platform in order to solicit
donations from Catholic Central supporters near and far, young and old.
Our initial goal was to support 232 children from the city of Grand Rapids,
providing each child with a $50 gift card. While we knew our community
was capable of rising to this challenge, we were amazed at the range of people
who felt called to give. Alumni from across the decades and across the country
generously contributed. Families and current students, faculty and staff stepped
up to the task.
The Holy Spirit was at work, and the online donations far exceeded our
original goal of $11,600. By the end of the drive we raised over $45,000
through the GiveCampus page, the Cathedral of Saint Andrew’s fundraising
efforts, and a generous private donation that was inspired by the outpouring
of support from the CC community. As a result, we were able to support 420
children during this Christmas season. 11
We are truly blessed by your generosity and your partnership with Catholic
Central as we continue this incredible tradition.
Artwork by CC Student Clare Wadaga ‘20
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 20219
Dave Henner ‘6 chting) and the
Sr. Mar y C as pe r (M ar y Catherine Bre
ree of the A L U M N I
ught us math th
MEMORIES
cl as se s. Sh e ta
Honors math group. Not
an d w e w er e a very cohesive
four years, e also learned
e le ar n a lo t of math, but w
only di d w other. 50+
em ic s an d respecting each
the values of ac
ad
ies of everyone Who impacted you the most
I st ill ha ve ve ry good memor while at CC and why?
years later, ary Catherine.
on or s m at h cl ass and of Sr. M
in the H
The influence of a teacher or coach extends
‘95
Elizabeth Salan ything was
far beyond the short time a student is in the
hi s en th us iasm about ever classroom, gym, or building. The memories
Coach T- p rallies
th er it w as hi s memorable pe
contagious! Whe gs fun and shared by our alumni are a clear testament
ng cl as s, he al ways made thin to that impact. We are so grateful to the CC
or just duri am a teacher!
in g. H e is a bi g reason why I teachers and coaches, past and present, who
interest
t a unique poured their time and effort into making
ha d a bi g im pact. He brough
Mr. Pitts al so Catholic Central a special place for our
d opened our
an d sp ir it to the classroom an students. You will always be a part of the
wisdom g
. He is also a bi
to th e bi gg er world around us foundation that makes us who we are.
eyes or.
came an educat
reason why I be
Our current teachers and coaches have been
Schipper ‘01
Kelly (Secord) d cross given the difficult task of being educators
/ “C ap ta in ” w as my teacher an
Father Gross t intelligent and mentors during a global pandemic;
ac h. H e w as one of the mos
country co hy however, they continue to rise to the occasion
ten asked him w
ha d ev er met. Students of in spite of adversity. They have found new
peop le I scient t
is
a te ac he r” an d didn’t become a
he was “just ured he could and inventive ways to teach, guide, support,
hi ng th at pa id more. We all fig
or somet and encourage their students. Thank you CC
ous.
rich or even fam
have easily been teachers and coaches for never giving up even
humility when the task at hand seemed impossible.
s re sp on de d w ith confidence,
He alway r CC community, we ask that you join us in
appreciation fo
ki nd ne ss . H e instilled in us an praying for our teachers and coaches that
and an just seeking
w in g G od ’s calling, rather th they might be filled with strength and peace
fo llo d him,
n w an ts . “C ap tain”, as we calle
out our ow r. He pointed ou
t to continue their task and that they will be
ce d m e to become a teache
influ en and ch gean blessed for their sacrifice and endurance.
ca n im pa ct a lot of students
that teachers pactful ways.
mble but very im
the world in hu
than for A blessing for
va lu ed m e as a human rather
As a coach, he me to find our teachers
m an ce as a ru nner. He helped
my perfor y gifts, my true
m ea ni ng in m y experiences, m Lord God, your spirit of wisdom
deeper od in my own lif
e.
an d ho w I could serve G fills the earth and teaches us your
va lu e, priest is
. H
no su rp ri se , th at he became a ways. Look upon these teachers.
It came as ll to serve him
was
hi p w ith C hrist and his ca Let them strive to share their
relatio ns s Christ.
as an d is so m eone who reflect knowledge with gentle patience
evident. He w le amount
12 co nd iti on al ly, has an incredib and endeavor always to bring the
He loves un . I have always
nc e an d is ve ry approachable truth to eager minds. Grant that
of patie my life and my
en th an kf ul th at he was part of they may follow Jesus Christ, the
be on to become a
pment. I went way, the truth, and the life, forever
spiritual develo myself.
s country coach and ever.
teacher and cros
R/. Amen. - Catholic Household
Blessings and Prayers
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 20217
Laura Quinn ‘7 ome basketball ‘75
C ol em an . She was an awes Terry Clifford tely known as (M
r. B.)
Nancy Cla rk e gym. af fe ct io na
d ta lk in g with her in th Mr. Tony Bulga
re lla
Mr. B was
coach and teache
r. I love
ach and an is h te ac her for decades.
in be co m ing a teacher, co He was CC ’s Sp
meroom teache
r
She influenced
m e
in trod uc tio n to CC as my ho
. my first ring nurturing
athletic director an ye ar . M r. B was a very ca
freshm st in his studen
ts
ought out the be
Jardine ‘79 teacher who br faith ba d
se
Anne (Mullen) skills that e of hi s own kids. His
ee ch /J r E nglish. I use my as if we w er e on
his students then
Judy Hildre th Sp
hen teaching m
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on he lp ed set the tone for
in sp ee ch cl ass every day w disp os iti
the sacrifices m
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rn m iz ed
s. Sh e w as a to ugh teacher and and now! To ny ep ito
u Mr. B!
middle schooler literature in rs. God Bless yo
cl as s. I le ar ne d great works of many CC teache
my A in he r
by her.
an d w as de fin itely challenged
the clas s 8
Mary Burns ‘0 e both so
an d M rs D eY oung. They wer
g) Williams ‘84 Coach T that you did
LeeAnne (Hoa for freedom of C oa ch T was so adamant
ew sk i. His class allowed inspir in g.
ng in his power
Mr Jim W ei sn
el l in hi s cl as s. He did everythi
ugh art. w If you were
expression thro u were passing.
to make sure yo g after
g he ha d no problem stayin
strugg lin
Becca Russo ‘1
4 an awesome
cause she pushed yo u! M rs DeYoung had
ap p im pa cted me most be to he lp
helpful with ev
erything!
Ms. Sc hn lieving in me w as ve ry
ever yd ay along with be attitude! Sh e
she always
me to do m y be st
d within me. I e st ru gg lin g with anything
ill s an d ta le nt she knew I ha If you w er
and the sk idance in to listen!
ho I am to da y without her gu had an ear open
would not be w ent.
and self developm
faith, education ) Wait ‘83
Chris (McGuire not let the boys
en e M ar y, she told me to
Gumowski ‘98 St . Ir
me from speaki
ng up.
Sandy (Ogren) best out of e an d ke ep
e he kn ew how to get the intimidate m
over the
Mr. Jim beca us
to do our best d he r vo ice many times
ts . H e al w ay s encouraged us I have he ar
his studen tter. I will alway
s
to st ri ve fo r m ore and to be be le s,
years.
and ith his daily do
od
r hi m starting class w
re m em be oked rward to
fo
Linda Ercolan
o Higgins
es fo r ha lf days. I always lo 1967-68. First
even had on
w as n’t the best artis
t, but
. R en e fres hm an year French
s ea ch da y. I Sr y days it
going to art clas lping hand. e basement. Man
er e w ith a kind word or he period class in th class to
Mr. Jim was th she brought the
was so cold. Yet, inued with
Lo ok ed fo rw ard to it. I cont
y) Palmer ‘99 life. through
Gillian (Hurle made me French language
d M s. A nd er son. These two my study of the
Mrs. Soltis an They made it
h Eng lis h to high schoolers. college.
want to te ac holic
ach at West Cat
m uc h ea si er than it is! I te
look so in their ‘87
e of m y he ar t will always be Kurt Haapala mental
now, but a pi ec i. He was instru
Mr Jim Wisnesk lents,
classrooms. of my artistic ta
in development itecture
e to explore arch
Vander Ploeg ‘6
7 encouraging m nged me
Mary Wheeler was Mr. king. He challe
ho im pa ct ed me the most and design thin t art and
The teache r w
with respect an
d
(a s I ch al lenged him) bu
e tr ea te d each student at tim es
at CC
Robin so n. H
basic study skill
s thro h
ug on was my rock
t. H e ta ug ht creative expressi 13
encouragemen my entire
en ts th at ca rr ied me through
his assignm es by designing
he lp ed st ud ents explore issu
life. H e oose a
an d th en al lowing them to ch
essay questions u could find
m be r to w ri te in depth on. Yo
certain nu n
u and then lear
at pa rt ic ul arly interested yo
things th s I ever
rs w ro te . T he only history clas
from what othe
enjoyed!
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021ALUMNI
CC Alum, we’d love to help you stay connected! Catholic Central’s
new Alumni outreach portal has so much to offer.
Here’s what’s happening!
Reunions Archives
Here you can advertise your upcoming reunion and find out We are so fortunate to have the CC archives housed here in
information about our Homecoming weekend celebrations. our building. Here you can find information on upcoming
events, how to donate CC memorabilia, and who to contact
Have news? if you have questions.
Got married, received a promotion, went on a cool
adventure, or had a baby? We want to know about it! Share Inside CC
your updates here and we’ll include them in our monthly The alumni magazine is a special bi-annual publication that
alumni newsletter. allows for alumni to learn about things going on at CC, hear
from fellow alumni, and so much more. You can read past
Update contact information publications and find who to contact if you have comments
Moved or got a new number? Don’t forget to let us know or concerns.
so you never miss the Inside CC or other important CC
mailers. Small Business Directory
We’re proud of all the amazing things our CC alumni do
and would love to do more to help promote our alumni-
owned small businesses. Here you can let us know about
your small business. We’ll highlight a few businesses in each
alumni monthly newsletter and publish an alumni owned
14 small business directory in December.
Visit the alumni portal at grcatholiccentral.org/alumni/
Want to join the alumni monthly newsletter?
Email Mary Gibbons at marygibbons@grcatholiccentral.org to be added to the list.
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021The Michael (CC ’65) Lebednick Scholarship Fund
in honor of Albert and Eleanor (CC ’41) Lebednick
Those who know Michael Lebednick know of his love
of family, Catholic Central, and golf. Mike grew up in
what he calls a “typical, blue collar family”. His mom,
Eleanor CC ’41 and dad Albert sent all six kids to St.
John Vianney. In addition to Mike, his sister Mary Lou
and brother Mark graduated from CC in 1967 and
1979 respectively.
Mike’s dad worked as a tool and die maker for General
Motors. On top of that, he often worked part-time
jobs at a machine company to provide for the family.
When reflecting on his childhood, Mike realized that
he never really recognized the sacrifices that were
made by his parents to send their children to Catholic
schools. But his wiser, older self knows better. It is
abundantly clear to him that it was very important
to his parents that he received a “proper faith-based
education”.
Mike has been donating to the annual fund for two
decades. When asked why he created the Lebednick
endowed scholarship he said: “The young men and
women of today are our future. When I think back
on my time at CC, I believe it was the efforts of the
religious and lay teachers, the structure and discipline,
and the overall learning environment that guided me
in later years as I went from the Navy to college, and
then into the workforce. An underpinning of my
scholarship is to provide for a young man or woman,
who otherwise could not afford to attend CC or is in
need of financial assistance, the opportunity to succeed
that my parents provided to me. Hopefully, one day in
the future they will be able to pay it forward”.
Catholic Central High School is grateful to all of our 15
endowed scholarship donors. You can see all of our
endowed scholarships on the Catholic Central website.
If you wish to create an endowed scholarship, please
contact Beth Banta, Chief Advancement Officer at
616.233.5816.
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021B y J e s s i c a T r e n s h a w ‘ 1 8
UPON THIS
ROCK Jessica Trenshaw, 2018 Catholic Central graduate, attends Aquinas College here in Grand Rapids and studies Elementary
Education. She is the Vice President of the Education Club, a student ambassador, and on the Student Senate. Jessica also
works in the Box Office at Circle Theatre, which has been her dream job since the first time she went to a Catholic Central
show! Jessica wrote the following article for our virtual O Antiphon series.
When creating something new, one always starts with an idea. For a most important things. Slowly, our world feels a little less
musician, they start with the first note. For a writer, they start with stable, and we are flooded with emotions we might not be
the first word. For a sculptor, they start with a piece of clay. Once you able to explain. Luckily, we are blessed with a merciful God
have the idea in your head, you must create the base or foundation. who will guide us and help us strip our faith down to the
There are a range of different materials that you could use, but some foundation. God created us each individually, and with a
are inevitably stronger than others. In Matthew’s Gospel, it says “And specific purpose. We are here to build up the foundation of
so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock, you will build my the Church. While our lives are flooded with social media,
church…” We know through this proclamation that we cannot live a surface-level love, and broken promises, we forget that the
faith-filled life without a firm foundation. foundation of our lives and our faith is the sacrificial love of
God.
In 8th grade, a large portion of my childhood home was destroyed by
a devastating flood. Water was pouring onto two floors and into the Once my house was only the wood framing and had no
basement for almost 12 hours. For my parents, it was as if their world resemblance of a home, my family was left with the task
was built on sand: everything was falling apart. The only way that we to organize and go through our possessions. It is hard to
16
could salvage the house was to remove everything we owned and strip recognize how many things you collect over time until you
the house down to the foundation. are deciding what is too destroyed to keep, or finding things
you forgot you had. This was a really hard thing to do
How often do we see this same process in our faith journeys as well? because the process brought up many emotions: the sadness
We get so overwhelmed with the world around us and we forget the of memories lost, happy tears of the extra time we got to
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021Artwork by CC student Lilly Clarke ‘21
spend together, and frustration of how we could make it put the house back the way it was, or we could make some changes
through. When looking through 20+ years of memories, it is that could solidify our new lives and our new foundation. We felt
easy to feel alone and feel like you do not have a solid ground as though we had grown through this experience and it warranted a
to stand on. My family was lucky to have numerous friends, makeover.
family, and the church and school communities to offer their
time, food, and assistance. In those moments my family was The beautiful thing about our faith is that we can choose to renovate
reminded that, like the scripture says 365 times, we should and reevaluate whenever we want, and the foundation will still be
not be afraid, and that we are not alone. strong! Sometimes, that renovation happens when we least expect it.
We, as Christians, must take the time to solidify our foundation and
Similarly in our faith journey, we are invited to examine the work through the things that may need to change, even if they are
things we have collected over time, and remind ourselves hard.
of the things we have forgotten. Once we recognize the
foundation that God has created for us (which is not an easy Despite the devastation that my family saw when the flood happened,
task), we can start the hard part of looking through our stuff: our house feels stronger than ever. Through this experience we realized
17
the good memories, the moments where we fell, and the that God does not dwell in a castle in the sky, but in the love and
moments where we felt lost but did not seek out God. sacrifice our family saw. The same can be said for our faith, all we need
is a strong foundation.
Once we cleaned the house up and things were ready to be
put back together, my family had another decision: we could
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021ed to
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INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021Catholic Central high School
BETTER
TOGETHER An In-Person Event
Auction 2021
May 8, 2021 AT The CAT
19
Opening doors, unlocking potential,
Investing in each student's God-given gifts.
For tickets and more info, head to bit.ly/bettertogether2021
grcatholiccentral.org
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021CC Archives Update
Thank you
The CC Archives continues to grow and thrive from
thoughtful and generous donors like you. Appreciation
goes to the following for their recent donations: Alice
Derezinski Donahue, ’57; Nancy Connell Liszewski
Huhn, ’60 on behalf of Jeremiah Connell, ’37; Gordon
Schmucker, 53; Kathy Stein Lauria, ’60; Sue Zuchowski,
61; Joe Levandoski; Mary Donahue Dutkiewicz, ’47;
Stan Miklaszewski, ’56; John Fitzgerald, ’81. You have
helped preserve the history of Catholic Central! The Girls’ Basketball Team, 1926-’27, wearing
uniforms supplied by CC boosters.
Many thanks to Janet Bueche Warner, Class of ’83, who identified some of the students
marching in the 1983 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Grand Rapids featured in
the last Inside CC magazine. Janet (far left in white derby hat) and Ed Hannis (behind
the banner, tall and wearing a black top hat) were the drum majors. Gerry Choryan is
playing the triple toms (drums), Maureen Arents is the flag girl behind Janet, and the
trombone player in front of the snare drum player is Bill Joure.
A Look Back In Time: A Century Ago by hiring George Fitzpatrick as its first full-time football coach.
One hundred years ago, CC’s football team was in its formative Boosters made the move possible with financial support…”
years. From the get-go, Principal Father John A. Schmitt
refused to sanction the team (football was viewed as “brutal”), It’s recently come to light that chief among those first boosters
forcing the young athletes to use their wits to raise funds for were the Knights of Columbus. According to an article in The
equipment, coach their own team and contact other high Catholic Vigil (the Faith magazine of the time), the Knights
schools to form a schedule. With no school support, players set up an independent association of Catholic businessmen to
convinced a local tavern owner, Ernie Reed, to sponsor the provide “moral and financial support” to the boys’ football,
team in 1910. basketball and baseball teams. Through this association,
the Knights also supported sports for CC girls and in the
In their book, Faith, Honor, Integrity and Tradition: A History Catholic elementary schools, funded an Athletic Director, and
20
of Catholic Central Football, authors David R. Wood and Steve encouraged parents to become more involved. Today’s athletic
Grinczel, wrote, “After eight years of a lukewarm commitment boosters and supporters carry on that tradition, making a huge,
to football, [in 1921] Catholic Central made a bold statement positive impact on our student-athletes.
Maureen Korte, 616-458-4503 Deb Bek Moore, ’69, 616-490-2652
Contact the archivists
moeskorte@comcast.net djbmoore@comcast.net
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021IN MEMORIAM
May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
1937 1950 1955 1962
Martin Bolt Phyllis (Kolenda) Brandel Margaret (Nausadis) Lucas Phillip Bolek
James Canda Edward Mazurkiewic John Lovell
1941 Carol Hale Arlene (Stora) Orlikowski Ronald Prominski
Vincent Sarnicola Maxine (Lorenski) Kowalik John Piela
Frances (Siebeneicher) Wheaton Richard Underhill Terrance Reagan 1963
Robert Woodrick Evelyn (Hufford) Rucker Dale Miedzielec
1942 Roger Stroh
Philip Kregor David Tietema 1964
1951 Richard VanEck Thomas Drozdowski
1943 Joanne (Camling) Anderson James Wheeler
Dorothy (Hernes) Czerney Cheryl (Bixler) Bartosiewicz 1956
Robert Drieborg June (Fisher) Kubiak Patricia (Szurna) Edkins 1965
Bernee (Waskelis) Mazurek Charles Orlikowski Roger Hamacher James Lynch
Richard Rosloniec Joan (Taylor) Hansen
1944 Nancy (Crowley) Sorrelle Joan (Turoski) Hansen 1966
James Rooney Gordon Teska Lillian (Makarewicz) Hinds John Howard
Mary (Amante) Russo James Mathieu Patrick Sullivan
Ludmila (Winzek) Schumaker 1952 Vincent Milito Robert Vandenberg
Robert Foster Terrence O’Rourke
1945 Patricia (Meholic) Goodwin 1969
Mary Anne (Dunneback) Gagnon David Lukowitz 1957 Richard Cichon
Ann Myszka Edward Marek Robert Antzak
Mary (Henze) Schweitzer Dorothy (Franckowiak) Martin Betty (Hubbard) Martin 1970
Robert Shutich Mary (Host) Schaaf Carol (Kubiak) Masiewicz Jean Jesinskas
Audrey (DuPont) Underhill
1946 1958 1971
Richard Lang 1953 Ruth (Leo) Eagleman Kathleen (Longo) Command
Henry Zlydaszyk Elaine (Gerloski) Abel Donna (Pyman) Inman
Judith (Glowacki) Bialas Janice (Kozminski) Lang 1974
1947 Carolyn (Juchniewicz) Gregor Carl Pinard Cythia (Buffin) Desser
Ernest Baldini Janet (Nahs) Kloostra Wayne Thompson
Louise (Karston) Budnick Michael Kulak Stanley Wisinski 1975
Robert Fontuto Fred (Poposki) Prescott Eugene Zachowski Anne (Babin) DeVries
Edward Hefferan Bert Pulaski James Greene
Gordon Schmuker 1959
1948 Dolores (Schmuker) Snyder Robert Kale 1976
Ruth (Oosdyke) Burkholder Dennis Winn Norman Leo Robert Banaszak
Patricia (Connor) Chulski Sharon (Wisinski) Luce Julie Wildey
Edward Deuling 1954 Barbara (Muller) Meiers
Genevieve (Grzybowski) Maksymowsl John Bieszka Stephen Young 1987
Rosalie (Bartz) Polaschik John Black Joseph Hensell
Mary Ann (Koleczek) Romanowski Mary (Balahoski) Gibbons 1960
James Stellard James Schneider Frederick Hula 1989
William Wisz John Thompson Gary Pickerd Julie (Snyder) Lizak
Armella (Steffes) Zapolnik Janice (Biermacher) Willette Joseph Popowich
Rose (Monterusso) Skorka 1993
1949 Mary (Zeeff ) Tatman Deirdre Chervenka
Marcella (Marek) Delano
Mary Lou (Steffens) Gladstone 1961 1994
Edward Glynn Michael Baczewski Patrick Tepper
Louis Hallacy Carol (Krucinski) Konwinski 21
Esther (Rice) Michalski Carol (Fancher) Matice
Irene (Karolkiewicz) Otero Daniel Metzgar
John Stepanovich Richard Wozniak
The Advancement office works with alumni and community members to create our In Memoriam page.
If your loved one was missed in this edition, please contact us at cchscommunications@grcatholiccentral.org.
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021Thank You Principal Circle Thank You
Members and Benefactors Dean’s List Members
Anonymous CC Friend Anonymous CC Friend
Martin ‘54 and Susan Allen D. Michael ‘85 and Colleen App
Michael Anderson ‘54 Thomas and Sarah Gleason
Daniel ‘84 and Sharon ‘84 Bowen J. Robert Lentini ‘64
Elizabeth Nickels ‘80 and John Brauneis Bradford ‘88 and Andola Mathis
David and Carol ‘75 Burgess Thomas ‘83 and Jacqueline ‘85 McGovern
Tim* ‘51 and Janet* Conroy David and Kimberly Moorhead
Thomas ‘79 and Kimberly Conroy Jay and Sara Preston
John Diamond ‘02 Pablo and Julie Rodriguez
Robert Diamond and Sheila Kinney Blake ‘97 and Lauren Snyder
Stephen ‘74 and Geri ‘75 Dunn Leroy Thiel ‘49
Lawrence and Jennifer Duthler Chad ‘97 and Lauren ‘98 Warner
John Dykema ‘77 and Michele ‘79 Maly-Dykema Ronald and Patricia Williams
Lawrence ‘49 and Nancy Erhardt
William ‘73 and Mary Fallon
Greg and Susan Griffith
Ronald and Joan Griffith Thank You Sponsors
John and Mary Hendrickson
David and Nancy ‘60 Huhn Alliance Beverage
Darren ‘82 and Theresa Jackson AMDG
Michael ‘68 and Susan ‘69 Jandernoa Aquinas College
Steven ‘01 and Holly ‘01 Jandernoa Banta Furniture
Carl ‘96 and Kelly ‘96 Jandernoa Breast Health and Wellness Center
John and Nancy Kennedy Dan and Sharon Bowen
Richard and Jennifer Keyes EV Construction Company
Steven and Claudia Klafeta Internal Medicine and Pediatrics of West
Paul ‘64 and Patricia Korte Michigan
Michael Lennon ‘65 Kent Manufacturing Company
John and Sandra ‘74 Lowery Marge’s Donut Den
Thomas and Julie McCall Sharpe Cars
Michael McElwee
Michael and Maureen Muraski
Kenneth ‘57 and Edie Muraski
David Nelson ‘00 If you are interested in
Michael and Elizabeth Novakoski becoming an event sponsor or
General John ‘59 and Maureen Nowak
Brendan ‘84 and Christine O’Driscoll joining either of our donor
James ‘71 and Linda Payne giving societies, please contact
Kevin ‘89 and Kristen Polakovich the Advancement Office at
James ‘63 and Ann Rosloniec 616.233.5816
Mary Beth ‘85 and Terry Rott
Susan and William Rysdyk
22 Joseph ‘91 and Patricia ‘91 Schetz
Timothy ‘88 and Meg Sullivan
It is of utmost importance that we list each donor’s name according
Marleen Sullivan to personal preference. If you wish to have your name listed
Daniel ‘61 and Alice ‘61 Trapp differently, please accept our apologies and let us know by calling
Allen and Virginia Vanderboegh 616.233.5835 with any changes. Thank you!
Sue ‘68 and Patrick VanHaren
James and Mary ‘78 Veldheer *We remember our beloved Principal Circle members who have
joined our Heavenly Father. May they find peace in his embrace.
INSIDE CATHOLIC CENTRAL SPRING 2021Office of Catholic Schools
David Faber, Superintendent / Canonical Administrator
Sarah Grey, Interim Assistant Superintendent
Kathy Purcell, Business Manager
Catholic Central High School
Tiffany Marrinan, Principal
Peter DeWitt, Assistant Principal
Nellie Richthammer, Admissions Director
Trevor Hinshaw, Athletic Director
Beth Banta, Chief Advancement Officer, Executive Director of
CC Foundation
Shomari Tate, Director of Equity and Multiculturalism
Scout Tosi-Milhorn, Director of Communications
Fr. Steve Cron, Co-Chaplain
Fr. Colin Mulhall, Co-Chaplain
Deacon Dennis Rybicki, Campus Ministry
Class of 1970, It is time to celebrate
our 50th reunion! Board Members
Jennifer Crowley
Saturday, August 21, 2021 at English Hills at 1200 4-Mile Lawrence Duthler
Rd NW from 5-11pm. Dinner at 6pm. Casual attire. Dr. Susan English
Tammy Helminski
We need you to do two things: Timothy Hile
1) Mark your calendars to save the date Steve Jandernoa
2) Send a personal check or money order, made out to Catholic John Lowery
Central Class of 1970 or to Sue Underhill, 1676 Lisa Dr SW, David Malson
Byron Center, Mi 49315. Brad Mathis
Thomas McGovern
Note: we are NOT accepting walk-ins at the door. Payment is Fr. Colin Mulhall
due by July 4, 2021. Early payments are appreciated. Bryan Rellinger
Joesph Schetz
We need a head count for the food and staffing. The price Michael Van Diepenbos
is $50 per person to cover dinner, room rental, decorations,
mailings, etc. Cash bar. Inside Catholic Central is published twice yearly by Catholic
Central High School to connect the community of alumni,
There will be a coed golf outing on August 19. Contact Bill Miller friends, and family.
at 616-460-2780. A memorial Mass at St Jude’s at 4pm on
same day as reunion. Send comments to:
Editor
We probably don’t have all our classmates/friends contact info Inside Catholic Central
319 Sheldon Blvd. SE
so please forward this to them. We’ll be excited to see you for Grand Rapids, MI 49503
this final scheduled reunion. cchscommunications@grcatholiccentral.org
Don Jansma and many other organizers Mission
616-633-3210 Catholic Central High School challenges students to know
and love God, seek knowledge and truth, respect the dignity
of each person, and contribute to society through leadership
and service.
60th Class Reunion
Thursday, July 15th, 2021
Parish Hall at St. Mary Magdalene
1253 52nd St. SE, Kentwood, MI
More information will be sent at a later date.
Contact Eva Sherman Blackford with any questions
blackfordeva@gmail.com or 616-485-7389
Online:
grcatholiccentral.org
facebook.com/grcatholiccentral or
facebook.com/GRCatholicCentralAlums
instagram.com/GRCatholicCentral
Artwork by CC student Nicole Lastfogel ‘23NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
GRAND RAPIDS, MI
PERMIT #398
319 Sheldon Boulevard
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
"What has surprised us most about Catholic Central is how our kids
have truly grown not just in their faith and academics but also their
sense of perseverance and community responsibility. Spending every
day with like-minded friends, classmates, and faculty at Catholic Central
encourages this growth on a regular basis, and so it has become a
natural part of who they are for the rest of their lives. We can't imagine
a better investment." – Robert
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