“Between Classes”€¦ · because of Mary Hayes ScholarShipS at Shanahan M any wonderful...

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“Between Classes”Activities, clubs, and athletics are an integral partof the education of a Bishop Shanahan student.

Shanahan Magazine design by Margaret Galeano (www.gr8pg.com)

Spirituality at Shanahan

The world may be a better place because of Mary Hayes

ScholarShipS at Shanahan

M any wonderful benefactors influence the education of Bishop Shanahan students. Whether it is through the sup-

port of the Shanahan Fund, Sponsor a Student or other avenue, they are all meaningful ways to help families provide a Catholic education for their children.

One such benefactor is Mary Hayes. Over the years, Mary has generously sponsored a scholarship providing this opportunity to families whose children attended St. Agnes Parish School. A longtime member of the St. Agnes community, Mary realized that tuition for some of the grade school families would be a struggle. In 2002 she established a scholarship to help those families! Beginning as freshmen, students received $3,000 in financial aid. As upperclassmen they received $1,000 per year for the next 3 years to help them continue their education at Shanahan. Over the years, this scholarship has provided support for over 45 students!

As Mary moves to a retirement community, she will be slowly ending her scholarship. She has touched many families with her generosity. Bishop Shanahan High School wishes her well and will continue to keep her in our prayers!

Students pray before the Homecoming pep rally!

The 2014-15 Mary Hayes Scholarship recipients are: John Glasser ’18, Aileen Taylor ’15, Katherine McAssey ’17, and Phillip Mullin ’16

A hundred years from nowIt will not matter what kind of car I drove

What kind of house I lived in

How much was in my bank account

Nor what my clothes looked like

But the world may be a better place

Because I was important in the life of a child.Prose by Forest E. Witcraft

b

b

Daily Mass – many students, parents, faculty, and staff arrive a half hour before school starts to attend Mass.

www.shanahan.org | Shanahan 1

A l e t t e r f r o M o u r p r e s i d e n t

Dear Parents, Friends, and Fellow Graduates,

Alleluia! May the peace of the Risen Lord be yours! As we live each day of

this holy Easter season, may faith, hope, and love surround you!

It is always a joy for me to share a few thoughts with you in our Shanahan

Magazine. As a BSHS graduate, I can only thank God for all the wonderful

blessings that take place at Shanahan during class time and “Between

Classes!” Our students are truly fortunate to be in this Catholic School

environment where they have the opportunity to thrive in body, soul, and

spirit. We have had many successes this year in academics, sports, and

in competitions of all sorts. Our students are diligent students and hard

workers no matter what the challenge and we are proud of them.

I want to thank you for your spiritual, moral, and financial support

of our school. Your continuous generosity permits us to provide our

students with an outstanding educational opportunity in a faith-filled

environment. Is there a better preparation for their future?

AND NOW....

I would like to ask each and every one of you to please prayerfully consider

a generous donation to the “OUR TEAM. OUR DREAM” campaign. This

is our fundraising effort for a new state-of-the-art turf field, stadium

lights, and track renovation. The cost of our project is $2 million and

we are about halfway there. These renovations will benefit not only the

Shanahan students but also all those who play in the ChesMont league.

Shanahan is a strong competitor to be sure. This new field and track will

provide wonderful opportunities for our Shanahan athletes.

Thank you very much for your goodness to Bishop Shanahan. Please pray

for us as we do for you. I look forward to welcoming the members of the

Golden Anniversary Class of 1965, “THE GOLDEN EAGLES,” to our

graduation on June 5 at 10:00 a.m. More information to come!

God bless you!

Sincerely yours,

Sister Regina Plunkett IHM ’64

MiSSion StatEMEntBishop Shanahan High School, a

Catholic co-educational second-

ary school of the Archdiocese of

Philadelphia, provides its students

with a strong spiritual formation, challenging aca-

demic offerings, and rich extracurricular programs.

A vibrant witness to Christian values and a commit-

ment to academic rigor and integrity prepare all

students to be critical thinkers and moral stewards

in a rapidly evolving global environment.

adMiniStration

Sr. Regina Plunkett, IHM ’64 President

Sr. Maureen Lawrence McDermott, IHM, Ph.D.

Principal

John DeSantis

Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs

Sr. Marianne Lallone, IHM

Assistant Principal for Student Affairs

Stephen Mickulik

Assistant Principal for Student Services

adviSory Board 2014–2015

Members of our Advisory Board are volunteers

that provide invaluable wisdom, expertise and

guidance to the administration. They portray the

commitment to academic excellence that we have

at Bishop Shanahan. We are blessed and grateful

for all their efforts on behalf of our mission.

Leo Parsons ’78 - ChairmanBeth Harper Briglia, P’12, ’17

Michael Cabry, P’08Joseph J. DellaVecchia III, P’12Francis DiFonzo ’62, GP ’18Eugene DiOrio St. Agnes ’50

Robert J. DiSciullo ’82, P’15, ’18Anthony Fiorenza ’72, P’05, ’09

James B. Griffin, P’08, ’10, ’12, ’14, ’16Mary Kay Hennessy ’75, P’00,’04

Courtney Mulvey Lofgren ’95Donna MacFarland, P’09, ’15

Edward M. Matejkovic, PhD ’65Michael Miley ’94

John P. Morrissey, P’07, ’09, ’12, ’16Kevin C. Quinn, P’02, ’08

Rev. T. Christopher RedcayWalter Tatarowicz, P’04, ’11

Louis N. TetiGunard C. Travaglini, P’01, ’03, ’05

Ex-OffICIO

Sister Regina Plunkett, IHM ’64, PresidentSister Maureen L. McDermott, IHM, Ph.D.,

PrincipalMaureen Morin, P’98, ’02, ’05, ’08,

Director of Advancement

2 Shanahan | Spring 2015

o u r t e A M . o u r d r e A M .

i n our last SHANAHAN magazine, we gave

you a sneak peak at the “OUR TEAM.

OUR DREAM” campaign to make a number

of renovations to our stadium. This is a

two million dollar campaign to add artificial

turf, lights, and track improvements to the

existing stadium. The campaign committee

has been working tirelessly to make this

dream a reality. After many months of

preparation, meetings and presentations,

the board members of the Downingtown

Borough have unanimously approved the

project, paving the way for the renovations

to begin in May. Now we need YOUR help!!

We are asking ALL members of the

Shanahan community — alumni, parents,

parents of alumni, St. Agnes High School

archdiocESE MakES challEngE plEdgE Sr. Regina Plunkett and Sr. Maureen McDermott were on hand at the Golf Outing reception when Mr. Christopher Mominey, Secretary of Education for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, made a challenge pledge of $125,000 for the Turf Campaign. If $125,000 in pledges were committed by those attending the event that evening, the Archdiocese would match that amount up to $125,000. Shanahan supporters at the outing very generously met that challenge and a total of $250,000 was committed to the Turf campaign that evening!! Thank you to our supporters and the Archdiocese for your very generous gift to the “Our TEAM. Our DrEAM” campaign.

alumni, grandparents, and friends of

Shanahan — to support this project which

will not only enhance the athletic program

at Bishop Shanahan, but will also enrich

student life here as well. To date, we have

received over $800,000 in pledges toward

our $2,000,000 goal. To learn more about

the campaign or to donate, visit www.

shanahan.org and click on the ‘Turf’ tab.

To speak to someone about a donation or

naming opportunity, please contact Maureen

Morin at 610-343-6255.

OuR TEAM. OuR DREAM.A call to everyone in the Shanahan community


tailgate for the turfA standing room only crowd was on hand to hear details of the “Our TEAM. Our DrEAM” campaign for synthetic turf, stadium lights, and a resurfaced track. The tailgate event was the start of the public phase of the campaign which hopes to raise $2 million to make these stadium upgrades. Sr. Regina Plunkett ’64 (President), Sr. Maureen McDermott (Principal), Mr. Ron Reidinger (Athletic Director), Mr. Leo Parsons ’78 (Chairman of the BSHS Advisory Board), and Mr. Bob Ward ’76 (Co-Chair of the Major Gift Campaign) were on hand to lay out the plans and answer questions about the project.

“I have loved my experience here as a lacrosse and field hockey player and am very excited knowing the future impact that playing these sports on turf will have, not to mention the excitement of hosting games under the lights! The addition of a new state of the art athletic facility will take Shanahan sports to a new level!”

Kelci O’Donnell ’15 Committed to play lacrosse at Virginia Tech

Why Your Support Makes a Difference

“The major stadium renovation Shanahan is undergoing is a huge boost to an already improved football program. It really shows how the team has become better over the years and how Shanahan is expanding. This will be a monumental step forward, not only for the football team, but the entire Shanahan community and will give the student body more opportunities to interact and enjoy their time here.”

Cody Smith ’15 Committed to play football at Princeton University

“Sports were such big part of my four years at Shanahan and having the very best facilities is important to any athletic program. This campaign for artificial turf, lights, and track will allow Shanahan to compete at a higher level in the ChesMont, the District, and even in the State. I hope everybody in the Shanahan community will support this campaign!”

Samantha (Schroth) Allen ’05 2005 BSHS Peter Bruni Award Winner and former D1 soccer player at the U.S. Naval Academy

“When I played at Shanahan, we never had Friday night games under the lights. By adding lights to the stadium, it would bring more fans out to the games to support the teams.”

Ryan Alderman ’09 2009 BSHS Kelly’s Sports Award Winner and former D1 football player at Temple University (Captain)

OuR TEAM. OuR DREAM.A call to everyone in the Shanahan community


W h A t ’ s h A p p e n i n g A t s h A n A h A n

“Between Classes”

Girls’ Teams Win ChampionshipsBoth the girls’ ice hockey team and the girls’ basketball team won their league championships this year. Congratulations girls!!!

BaSkEtBall The Lady Eagles (21-3 overall) beat rival Downingtown East to take their first-ever ChesMont Championship and win Shanahan’s 2nd overall league championship in girls’ basketball.

icE hockEy The girls’ ice hockey team defeated Lansdale Catholic 2-1 to take the ICSHL (Inter-County Scholastic Hockey League) championship and the first-ever for Shanahan’s hockey program.




Students learn about businesso n November 7th,

twelve students

from Bishop Shanahan attended

the Pennsylvania DECA Innovations and

Entrepreneurship Conference hosted by the

Smeal College of Business at Penn State

University. DECA is an international busi-

ness organization which prepares emerging

leaders at both high school and collegiate

levels in marketing, finance, hospitality and

management. Sixteen teams from around

the state of Pennsylvania participated in the

conference. Under the direction of modera-

tor Teresa DelliCompagni, two teams from

Bishop Shanahan took first and second place

in the competition. This is only Shanahan’s

second year competing in DECA and the

second consecutive year where they won top

honors at the Penn State competition.

In february, 2015, the DECA team then

competed at the 2015 State Competition

held in Hershey, PA. Shanahan’s 57 competi-

tors were among 2100 participants from all

over Pennsylvania. Nineteen medals were

awarded to Shanahan students for having

either the highest test score or the highest

role play score in their competitive events.

Nine 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place trophies were

awarded to Shanahan students and qualified

them to compete at the International Career

Development Conference which was held in

Orlando, florida in April. Congrats to the

DECA team! n

“Between Classes” Singing her way to the topTori Sellers has sung her way into the #1 spot in Pennsylvania (Region 6). She started by being selected (along with 23 other BSHS students) to the Archdiocesan All-Catholic Chorus. From there, Tori and three other BSHS students were selected to audition at the District XII competition where chorus members from 40 other district high schools were also competing. Three Shanahan students moved on to be placed in Region XVI chorus which required more auditions and learning more pieces of music.

Tori took first place in her category, earned an “All-State” title, and moved on to the Region 6 chorus. At the time this magazine went to print, Tori was preparing to go to the state competition. She is the only student in the Region 6 chorus from a diocesan high school. Tori is also an honor student. Congratulations to Tori and all the members of the chorus who put in a significant amount of time “between classes” making Shanahan’s Fine Arts program one of the best!! n

“Between Classes” Forensics teams up to compete

F ourteen members of the Bishop Shanahan Forensics Team qualified to com-pete in the 2015 Pennsylvania State Forensics Championships that were held at

Susquehanna university in late March. The students who qualified to compete were (back row - left to right) Daniel Gorman, Dean Walters, Skyler Shields, Joseph Blajda, Daniel Lindstrom, Zachary Zalis, and Andrew Lemheney. In the front row (left to right) are Dominique Ocampo, Erika Goetz, Gabrielle Gehron, Andrea Herb, and Lillien Shaer.

Missing from the picture are Abigail Rule and Beatrice Schaffer. n

(Back row, l to r) James Owens, Greg Pera, Shawn McGinley, and Patrick Delaney. (Front row, l to r) Tristan Bruecks, Joseph Ulsh, Madelyn Wadlinger, Gregory Makoid, and Davis Johnson.



Other students receiving honors at the Science Fair were: Emily Fanning ’16, Anna Brower ’16, Coulson Hearn ’16, Phillip Mullin, Michelle Farina ’17, Michael DeBoer ’17, Megan Muller ’17, Gwen Plevyak ’18, Simon Blanchard ’18, Vishal Ramola ’18, Mark Gomba ’18, and John Glasser ’18. These students now move on to the Delaware Valley Science Fair. n

F ive Bishop Shanahan students recently took part in the inau-gural PA Governor’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering

and Math) competition. In addition to Shanahan, seven other high schools participated in the Chester County division of the competi-tion including: Coatesville Area Senior High School, Downingtown West High School, Great Valley High School, Downingtown STEM Academy, Technical College High School (Brandywine), Technical College High School (Pennock’s Bridge), and Technical College High School (Pickering). Each school could be represented by one team only. The team of Stephen Anderson ’16, Angela Herb ’16, Matthew Horger ’16, Andrew Johnson ’16, and Conor Waldt ’16 took the cham-pionship and will represent Chester County at the state competition held at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology in Lancaster, PA.

Shanahan’s “Brilliantly Bright Solar LED Street Signs” project earned an almost perfect score in the three-phase competition. The first phase was a prototype demonstration and project plan presenta-tion during which the students showcased their solution and approach to a real-life Pennsylvania STEM challenge they had identified. Each team received a $500 stipend to use for their projects. The Shanahan team used a PowerPoint presentation to showcase their prototype solar-powered LED lit emergency STOP sign. Non-lighted versions of the foldable STOP signs are currently being used in various townships throughout Pennsylvania when the traffic lights are non-operational due to power outages.

Phase 2 of the competition was to give a “STEM in Your Community” presentation. The Shanahan presentation also included a detailed explanation of the team’s interaction and partnership with Downingtown Engineering Consultants (DEC) and how each member contributed to the project. Andrew Johnson was credited for his Science/Tech research and applications skills as well as his

ability to organize the team. Angela Herb and Conor Waldt added their Engineering and Mathematical expertise. Angela was also the liai-son with DEC. Stephen Anderson’s problem-solving and design skills as well as his presentation stylizations brought the project to life. Initiating the project and leading the team was Matthew Horger. Their mentor was Science teacher Dr. John Janasik.

The final phase was a “Project in a Box.” The activity was to design a way to drop a raw egg from eight feet and land it safely and unbro-ken in the center of a target. The teams received identical boxes of materials that they could use or not use for the activity. BSHS com-pleted the task successfully, landing the egg in the center of the target without breaking it.

The Governor’s Board has allocated an additional $750 to the team to make any necessary modifications and improvements before presenting their project at the state competition on May 29th. Congratulations to Stephen, Angela, Andrew, Matthew, and Conor for all the hardwork that you have done “between classes.” n


Students win STEM competition

“Between Classes” 14 BSHS projects take honors at Chester County Science Fair

Bishop Shanahan sophomores (left to right) Jake Galante, Shaun Ziegler, and Jack Seifried received “First Place Best in Show” for their project, “Fun Time with Milk and Plastic” in the team competition at the Chester County Science Research Competition.

Bishop Shanahan juniors Sidonie Warneck (left) and Kelly Boyle (right) were awarded “Second Place Best in Show “ for their project, “Handwriting vs. Typing” in the team competition at the Chester County Science Research Competition.



a s a speech and debate team member in

high school, Sr. Maureen McDermott

understood the significance and power of

words at a young age – which is what

brought her to Immaculata as an English

major with a minor in Secondary Education.

As a little girl growing up in South

Philadelphia, Sister Maureen attended St.

Gabriel Parish School. By the time she

was ready to enter high school, her par-

ents moved to Delaware County and she

attended Archbishop Prendergast High

School. After graduating from Immaculata

in 1978, she decided the following year

to enter the Immaculate Heart of Mary

(IHM) Congregation. During the summer of

1987, she made her final vows and gradu-

ated from West Chester University with

a Master of Arts in English. In 2006, she

earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Catholic

Educational Leadership from fordham

University’s Graduate School of Education.

She began her teaching career at vari-

ous local Catholic schools. It was during

this time that Sister Maureen recaptured

her love of speech and debate while teach-

ing it at Bishop McDevitt High School and

Villa Maria Academy during the 1990s. for

over 20 years she held leadership positions

within the Philadelphia Catholic forensic

League (NCfL), serving as president of the

Philadelphia Chapter from 1990-1992 and

the National Chapter from 1996-1998.

In 2001, Sister Maureen was named prin-

cipal at Bishop Shanahan High School in

Downingtown, PA. With 1,148 students at

the school, Sister recognizes that learning

goes beyond the confines of the school day,

“The student-athletes are always learning,

the students running the TV station are

always learning. Every opportunity is a learn-

ing one – to apply what you have learned.”

The ability to articulate clearly has served

her well. Among the many duties she jug-

gles as principal are curriculum develop-

ment, staff development, teacher mentoring,

and strategic planning, and she noted how

interconnected all of these duties are. for

example, as part of curriculum develop-

ment, it was decided that new electives, such

as pre-engineering and Mandarin, should

be added and as part of strategic planning,

the staff determined how to make it work.

In addition, Sister Maureen feels it is her

responsibility to facilitate all of these duties

in a positive Catholic way.

With her expertise in Catholic education,

Sister was recently invited to serve on the

Immaculata University Board of Trustees

for a three-year term as a member of the

Academic Affairs Committee and Enrollment

Initiative Committee.

“The ability to articulate with confidence

is life-changing,” Sister Maureen stated. She

noted that there has not been a U.S. president

who has not been involved in speech and


Sr. Maureen also serves at ImmaculataExcerpts reprinted from “Immaculata Magazine,” Summer 2014

debate in some manner before taking the

coveted role.

Her life as an IHM Sister is happy and

full. Her day begins and ends with God. “The

purpose of my life is to respond to what God

calls me to do and to keep an open heart,”

she stated. Living with and serving with

her IHM Sisters provides great inspiration.

The holiness and humility of the Sisters is

a constant source of inspiration for Sister

Maureen.

Sister notices a difference in the students

of today. “They are more globally aware, and

they don’t see technology as a device, but as

an extension of themselves,” she noted. Sister

Maureen observed that her students use

social media for efficiency, and she doesn’t

think technology has diminished their ability

to communicate at all. Communicating with

confidence, no matter the medium, is a prior-

ity for Sister Maureen. n

inStant dEciSion day takES placE “BEtwEEn claSSES”Under the direction of the Guidance Department, 12 colleges and universities came to Bishop Shanahan on Monday, March 16th for Instant Decision Day. By attending this event, 112 seniors who took part had the unique opportunity to sit one-on-one with admissions counselors to interview and receive an immediate decision (and possibly a scholarship), eliminating the tense anticipation of waiting for the response from the college to arrive. Sixty-nine juniors also took the opportunity to get some interview experience and express their interest in these universities. The colleges and universities that took part were: Christendom College, Delaware County Community College, Cabrini College, Immaculata University, Kutztown University, LaSalle University, Penn State University (Brandywine Campus), Rosemont College, West Chester University, and Widener University. n



playing SportS “BEtwEEn claSSES” lEadS to collEgE ScholarShipSConnor Davis to Wagner College (Baseball), Pat Corcoran to Providence College (Lacrosse), Kevin Conners to Notre Dame university (Golf), Cody Smith to Princeton University (Football), Jeff Zebrowski to Kutztown University (Baseball), Kelci O’Donnell to Virginia Tech (Lacrosse), Katie Lemheney to Shippensburg University (Volleyball), Alex Wendig to West Chester University (Lacrosse), Sam Gindhart to Fairfield University (Lacrosse), Madison Staska to West Chester University (Lacrosse), Jamie Powers to Kutztown University (Soccer), and Katie Kunzman to Mount St. Mary’s (Soccer)

StudEntS lEarn aBout carEErS “BEtwEEn claSSES”

Bishop Shanahan Parents’ Association organized their annual career day which was held in the auxiliary gym. Parents and members of the Shanahan community shared their knowledge and expertise in their respective fields with interested students. The students were able to learn about a variety of careers during their lunch periods. Thank you to the many who volunteered their time at this event.

Mcnulty EarnS national attEntion “BEtwEEn claSSES”Ryan McNulty was ranked as the 2014 #7 overall lacrosse player and #1 defenseman in the nation for the Class of 2016. Ryan was named to the 2015 All-USA preseason boys’ lacrosse team.



o ne fall Monday morning, Fr. Matt Guckin, who has been at BSHS for 12 years, nine as School Minister, explained to the students his love of priestly life by sharing his busy

weekend schedule with them. On Friday evening, he attended a Shanahan football game and experienced the camaraderie of the student body. On Saturday morning, he celebrated a funeral Mass and shared with the family the hope of eternal life. On Saturday afternoon, he celebrated a wedding and blessed the couple’s vow of eternal love. On Saturday evening, he held the hand of a dying woman while comforting her through the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. On Sunday morning, he celebrated a quiet and peaceful 6 a.m. Mass, followed by the celebration of a lively 9 a.m. Mass. On Sunday afternoon, he welcomed several new children of God into the Catholic faith through the sacrament of Baptism. Even though this typical weekend may seem hectic to us, Fr. Matt ministers to the needs of his flock with great joy! n

“Between Classes” A weekend in the life of a School Minister

“Between Classes” Mr. Arthur shares his Civil War expertise

M r. Roger Arthur, a historian and faculty member of the Social Studies depart-

ment, was invited to and participated in dis-cussions and a ceremony commemorating the 150th anniversary of the capture of Fort Fisher (Cape Fear, NC). Mr. Arthur, a Civil War expert, joined Senator Andrew Dinniman to record the program “Capitol Update” and join in a discussion of the prominent role of the 97th PA - Chester County regiment in the Union Army capture of this fort.

On October 5, 2014, Mr. Arthur again joined Senator Dinniman in Marshall Square Park in West Chester, PA where there stands a monument to the 97th regiment. Here Mr. Arthur spoke about the brigade commander, Colonel Galusia Pennypacker, and his bravery at age 19 in the charge that captured the fort.

Lastly, on January 13th, 2015, the Chester County Historical Society hosted “History on Tap with roger Arthur” at Barnaby’s restau-rant in West Chester, PA. Again, Mr. Arthur had an opportunity to share his knowledge of the Civil War with the community. In addition to the information Roger Arthur shares with others “between classes”, he is also the mod-erator of the Mock Trial Club at Shanahan. n

t he Chester County Voices Abroad Ensemble performed throughout France

in the summer of 2014. Highlights of the tour included: an international Mass for the invalids and candlelight evening procession at Lourdes; a concert in the American cemetery at Omaha Beach in Normandy; a performance at the Basilica of St. Therese in Lisieux; per-formances at La Madeleine and Notre Dame churches in Paris.

Twenty-five members of the choir were current Bishop Shanahan students, alumni and incoming students. Founder/Director Marge Campbell, who served as Chairman of the Fine Arts Department from 1980 to 2002, is currently Director of Choral Activities, Music

Director of the Fall musical and a private vocal coach for the Shanahan students.

Members of the Bishop Shanahan com-munity who participated are: Nicholas Anderson, Christopher Andonian, Kathleen Andonian, Ainsley Barry, Emma Byler, Maria Dulin, Mary Gannotti, Natalie Gomez, Abigail

Gorman, Colleen Lyons, Carolyn MacFarland, Megan McCarthy, Meghan McCarthy, Erin McFadden, Jennifer McIntyre, Brendan Nulty, Elissa Ousey, Alec Pfeiffenberger, Anna Radie, Mary Kate Shields, Matthew Skros, Allyson Smyth, Katherine VanderNeut,

Carly Zalis, Zachary Zalis n

where’s Shanahan?…singing in france!

Fr. Matt (left) with members of Kairos XXXIV




Leading by Design – Widener LabReprinted from Widener University website

a group of students from Bishop

Shanahan High School got an edu-

cation in cutting-edge engineering design

techniques when they got a chance to use

Widener University School of Engineering’s

3D printer to build and test model airplanes

of their own making.

The students completed the ENGR 113:

Computer-Aided Engineering Design class

in the Widener School of Engineering. The

16 students, in groups of four, used 3D-CAD

to design airplanes, which were printed with

the ProJet 1000 3D Systems Printer. The stu-

dents then tested their designs in the wind

tunnel in the fluids lab in Kirkbride Hall.

School of Engineering Assistant Dean

Rudy Treichel said the students, who earn

college credit for completing the course,

received a fundamental education in how

professional engineers communicate.

“Engineering graphics is the form of com-

munication for engineers,” Treichel said,

whether communicating with customers,

clients, or manufacturing operations. “They

learn how to draft and draw, both in a con-

ceptual sketch, freehand sketch, and then in

a CAD drawing scenario,” said Treichel, who

is director of Widener’s engineering graduate

programs.

The students glued their designs together

and tested them out in the wind tunnel,

measuring for lift and drag -- some working

better than others. The competition deter-

mined the most successful design and best

calculations. “They were able to see that

different shapes, sizes, and thicknesses of

wings had a huge difference on how much

lift they would get, and I think they were able

to see which designs worked a lot better,”

said Jacob fenstermaker, engineering tech-nician in Widener’s mechanical engineering program. n

parEntS hElp load and haul Band EquipMEnt to all away FootBall gaMESFor many years, parents have helped haul band equipment to all of the away football games. Jeff ’76 and Margie Rothwell ’73 Mostyn have generously donated their truck and their time over the years to handle this monumental task. Parents pictured helping move equipment for this game were (top) Jeff Mostyn, Ed Skros, and Bob Hackett, and (bottom) Mark Wible, Chrissy Mersereau, Margie Mostyn, and Judy Hackett with members of the marching band.

Essay contest winnersThis past summer, Madeline Desiderio (right) received a $1,000 tuition scholarship as a winner of the Catholic Business Network Essay Contest. She wrote an essay on the questions she would ask Pope Francis were she to have a private audience with His Holiness.

For the second year in a row, Eileen Mostyn ’17 (below) won the Christopher Columbus Essay Contest sponsored by the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution).


g l o B A l A W A r e n e s s A t s h A n A h A n


platinum awardIn recognition of the commitment of students, faculty , and administration to the Bishop Shanahan High School “Global Awareness Initiative”, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) awarded Shanahan the title of “Platinum School.” Ms. Cheryl Mrazik, the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic representative of CRS, is pictured here presenting a plaque to Sister Maureen McDermott and Sister Regina Plunkett in recognition of the school community’s accomplishment.

F ebruary, 2015 was designated as Global

Awareness Month and the theme this

year was “Peacebuilding.” Activities during

the month were aimed at raising the stu-

dents’ awareness of peace initiatives which

can aid in bringing peace locally and world-

wide.

In order to bring peace to others, one must

first experience inner peace. Therefore, the

first week’s lessons and activities were aimed

at “Peace in our Hearts.” Suggested activities

included attending daily Mass or lunchtime

prayer services and fasting from any form of

social media and texting. Theology teachers

took their classes to the chapel to participate

in a prayer experience to help them reflect

on those things that keep them from being

at peace in their heart. Students completed

a reflective exercise, writing down how they

can grow in peace with themselves and God.

Week 2 focused on “Peace in our

Homes.” Theology teachers distributed

and explained the family Peace Prayer and

Activity. Students were encouraged to pray

the prayer together with their families as well

as bring their families together for activities

such as family dinner, grace before meals,

family game night, etc…

Week 3 was aimed at bringing “Peace in

our School and Community.” Students were

encouraged to do intentional acts of kindness

to promote peace in the Shanahan commu-

nity. Also, there was a “Day of Affirmation”

activity in which students in their English

classes circulated sheets of paper with

Mother Teresa’s quote, “Peace begins with

a smile” at the top. Students then wrote

nice, positive comments about each of their

classmates on those papers. Mrs. Joan Hayes,

English teacher, said “This activity was a big

hit with the students and a testament to the

power of kindness.”

finally, Global Awareness Month cul-

minated with activities aimed at bringing

“Peace in our World.” Soha Menassa, proj-

ect manager for Catholic Relief Services in

Lebanon spoke to the students at an assem-

bly in which the topic was “Hungering for

Peace: Stories of Syrian Refugees.” Catholic

global Awareness Month

Building pEacEStudents were encouraged to help bring about peace through their creativity. Some students made public service announcement videos promoting peace, some made art projects, and seniors Chris Andonian (left) and John Boland built a bench which is being shipped to the Amigos de Jesus orphanage in Honduras. The “Peace” sign behind Chris and John is made of brick paper which represents tearing down the brick walls which prevent peace. Each brick includes a student’s name for each act of peace promotion.

Relief Services in Lebanon provides critical

support and care to some of the 1.2 million

Syrians who have been displaced due to civil

war in their own country. Topics discussed

this week were Peace vs. War, Inclusion

vs. Exclusion, Education vs. Ignorance,

Stewardship vs. Indifference, and Need vs.

Greed.

Over the course of Global Awareness

Month, students made public service

announcement videos on a wide range of

topics involving peacebuilding. Many of

these PSA videos were shown during home-

room periods. n

annual rEport goES grEEnAs our school community strives to increase its global awareness, we have decided to “go green” with our Annual Report of Donor Giving. We hope that by doing this, we will be good and conscientious stewards of the world’s precious resources. To see our Annual Report online, please go to www.shanahan.org and look for it under the ‘Support Shanahan’ tab. We are grateful to the many donors who support Bishop Shanahan in so many ways!


B o B d e g n A n

Bob “Degs” Degnan

By Dave McQuiston ’67 (Social Studies Department Chair)

J ust before Thanksgiving, Bishop Shanahan High School lost one

of its own. Bob Degnan, coach, teacher and ardent Shanahan

supporter, passed away at age 77, following a heart attack. “Degs”,

as he was affectionately known, taught World History and Latin for

27 years, until his retirement in 2002. Even then, he stayed active in

the school, first by working part time in one of the offices and always

by remaining one of the school’s biggest boosters. All you had to do

was log on to his facebook page (yes, incredibly, Bob had a facebook

page) and you could see that he never really left Shanahan. Bob kept

in touch with dozens of former students, parents and teachers, with

Shanahan the glue that kept them together.

Of course, the other constant in Bob’s life was Ireland. Green

might have been one of the Shanahan colors but it was also the color

of Bob’s blood. When he wasn’t traveling in Ireland, he was making

plans to. Bob had as many friends on that side of the Atlantic as he did

here. The fact that Bob was able to turn his history class into an Irish

Studies course is probably not that surprising, but how he worked

Ireland into a Latin class was something to behold.

Everyone who knew Bob will miss him and St. Patrick’s Day will

never be the same without him, but for many of his students and

friends from Shanahan, Bob will always be around.

Bob Degnan’s Facebook post on November 6, 2014 – “Here’s to a long life and a merry one; a quick death and an easy one; a pretty girl and an honest one; a cold beer and another one!!rest in peace, Degs, and enjoy eternal life!

RemembeRing Shanahan’S Own

Monica Valenti Bloom ’89: I am posting on behalf of my father, Dr Valenti. He is not on Facebook but wanted me to share the following: “He was an unbelievable person full of that Irish charm who touched so many lives and did so much good — I lost a very dear friend and a loyal colleague.” It is evident that my father’s sentiments are shared by everyone who had the pleasure to know Bob Degnan — he will be missed! rest in peace!

Walter Junium III ’93: Mr. Degnan, there is a candle burning in your memory in the Grotto at the university you loved so dearly. We will miss you, yet it’s great to know that you are in heaven with your mother and also pushing the buttons for a Notre Dame football national championship in 2015! Notre Dame, Our Mother, pray for us!

Regina P. Cunningham, P ’83: Bob’s funeral Mass was a loving Irish

goodbye to this much loved man. Father O’Hara had everyone in tears and laughter. Bob’s priest cousin sang “Danny Boy”. Beautiful Mass. Sunny and warm, ending as a soft day.

From Robert and Alison, Rachel, Andrew and Clare Magowan (Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland) A smile for all, a heart of gold, one of the best this world could hold; never selfish always kind, these are the memories you left behind. No farewells were spoken, no time to say good-bye, you were gone before we knew, and only God knows why.

Stella Springsteen: (November 19, 2014) So sad that my beloved teacher, mentor, friend, and great Irishman, Bob Degnan has passed away. He had an amazing sense of humor and a huge heart. I was so lucky to have stayed in touch with him all these years. I am happy that he knew that I cherished our friendship. RIP...until we meet again!(November 30, 2014) I feel blessed that I got to say good bye tonight to my teacher/mentor/friend. It was wonderful to see so many of the Shanahan family there. It was great seeing old teachers such as McQuiston, Finley, and Kolmeyer. It was amazing to see Dr. Valenti who does not look one day older than when I graduated in 1980. And most of all it was wonderful to see Degs best buddy, Father O’Hara. Thank you, Bob Degnan, for sharing your love, life, and laughter with us. You are missed!

John Newswanger ’83: Random thoughts about Bob Degnan - My freshman year at Bishop Shanahan High School, he was my first period History teacher. Walking in with his Excedrin coffee mug, he brought a brilliant combination of wit, charm, and knowledge, making a subject I already liked an easy “A.” I sat in the front corner of the class. In the dead of winter he’d say “Newswanger, open that window.” I’d think,” it’s like 15° out, but whatever.” That memory always makes me smile. Finding him on Facebook was a gift. He always had a wise comment, a funny story, a great picture from the Isle, something to make your day a little better. Last week, I was complaining about my son’s effort in Freshman Spanish. Bob’s comment: “Must be like his old man.” I could only chuckle. Last Thanksgiving, a few BSHS ’83 grads met for drinks. I made sure to send him an invite. And, of course, he came. I was always amazed

Degs coming out of the faculty room at the West Chester BSHS campus.

Postings and Quotes from Friends


BoB’S JackEt rEturnEd!Bishop Shanahan received an

unexpected yet welcome

surprise when we heard

that Bob Degnan’s

championship basketball

jacket had been found in

Delaware. This clothing

article is an important

piece of Shanahan’s

history and we are so

grateful to have it home

with us in loving memory

of Degs. We especially

express our thanks to

Juan Cantu, a U.S. Army

veteran who came upon

the jacket in his travels

and took time out to research its origin

and deliver it to Shanahan. We are grateful for all of our alumni who

have served or are currently serving in the armed services. We keep

all of our military personnel in our prayers. Thank you, Juan!

lighting a candlE For BoB at notrE daME Four former students stopped by the Grotto on the Notre Dame campus to light a candle in honor of Bob Degnan, a true Notre Dame fan! Pictured: Patti Mento Strauber ’72, Karen Leary ’74, Lisa Cozzone ’72 and Peg Schiavoni ’80

a givEr in thiS liFE and thE nExtBob Degnan devoted his life to his students! Even in

death, he continues to share his legacy by naming

Bishop Shanahan as a recipient of his estate. All here

at Shanahan will continue to keep Bob and his family

in our prayers….he will be remembered in perpetuity

as a member of the Shanahan Society and a wonderful

Irishman!!

Coach Degnan at home at Sea Isle

that he not only remembered almost every student, but who their siblings and parents were, as well. He spent some time that evening talking to my son, who accompanied me. Another memory that will always bring a smile. I didn’t realize until after I left BSHS that he was my favorite teacher. I made sure I told him after, and I’m glad I did. Slainte, Mr. Degnan. I’ll raise a Jameson in your honor. Drive home tonight with the windows open a little. It’s not that cold, after all.

Robert Connolly ’92 I’m still in shock. He taught two generations of Connolly’s. My father at Father Judge back in the ’60s and me at Shanahan in the late ’80s. He was a true gentlemen and a kind soul. I am a better person for knowing him. I will always remember sharing a Guinness with him and my father at his shore house in Wildwood. Rest in Peace Mr. Degnan. May God always hold you in the palm of His hand!!!

Marie L. Weyback, P’3, ’10, ’12: Bob was one of the brightest and most humble people I have had the pleasure of knowing. He had a pride and passion for life, approaching every moment with a bright and warm smile. His work ethic was matched by few.

Nancy Giunta Riccardo ’63, P’87, ’89, ’92, GP ’13, ’15, ’16 (more to come!): Bob Degnan, was a man who loved his job and his students. He always supported the students and they knew they could count on him when the chips were down. He loved his Irish Heritage and made you love it just talking to him about it, especially St. Patrick’s Day. You always knew he would be out the day after that holiday!!! His trips to Ireland were the highlight of his life. I will always remember Bob as a good and fun friend and a great educator.

Tony Matz P’06, ’09, ’12, ’14: I considered Bob, more commonly called “Degs”, a friend, colleague and traveling companion. A great storyteller - that’s the master ingredient of a good history teacher, Bob was a virtual encyclopedia of all things “Irish.” Whether in a classroom or social gathering, Degs was always on the top of his game. One thing I always found amazing was that no matter where Bob traveled, whether back to the Emerald Isle or North Philadelphia, he was considered a friend by someone at that particular place. Degs will truly be missed by friends everywhere and Bishop Shanahan has lost one of its greatest ambassadors.

14 Shanahan | Summer 2014

A l u M n i n e W s

Note: Bishop Shanahan reached out to Caroline Goggin ’10 and asked her

to write about her experience in the broadcasting field

By Caroline Goggin ’10

i graduated from Penn State

in May, 2014 with a degree

in Broadcast Journalism. I

started my job as a television

reporter in Binghamton, New

York in June. In August, I

was promoted to the weekend

anchor position. Now I function as a part-time reporter and anchor.

I absolutely love my job! I was always interested in the broadcast

field, especially in high school. While at Shanahan, I was able to test

out my skills as a host for Channel 2. Through Channel 2, I was able

to land myself in the KYW “Newsstudies” Program in Philadelphia.

My experience in this program was what pushed me to pursue broad-

cast journalism in my college studies. My work on the high school

forensics team really helped to strengthen my public speaking skills,

which, as I’m sure you could guess, is vital for my career.

I was told the news business was a tough to break into. I was told

that once you land in the business, it can be even harder to stay in it.

My work with the television station, the KYW program and the foren-

sics team affirmed the fact that this is positively what I was born to

do. I truly feel like I am living out my dream right now, and I cannot

wait until I have the opportunity to get back to Philadelphia one day!

On the weekends, I anchor the 6 p.m., 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. news-

Alumna’s activity “between classes” led to a career

casts. I am responsible for gathering content and working with my

reporter and videographers to get out in the community to various

events. I also function as a producer for the 10 p.m. and 11 p.m.

shows. When producing, I stack the show with what stories I want,

and time it out to make sure we fill the half-hour time slot we are

allotted. When I am a reporter during the week, I am called a “one

man band”. Essentially what that means is I do everything! I go out

to the stories, film and conduct interviews. Then I bring everything

back, edit and write it all, and then finally front it on camera. It is a

tiring job, but a rewarding one!

I included a picture of my parents and me when they came to visit

the station in October. I chose this one because I would not have been

able to go to Shanahan without my mom and dad. I also would not be

following this career path if it wasn’t for my family and the immense

support they have shown me. n

Above, Caroline with her parents at the anchor desk of WBNG in New York and at left as a morning anchor on the BSHS Channel 2 Morning Show.

Faith lifts alum above difficult military challenges

Lance Corporal Dan Mitchell ’12 with faculty members Joe Aquilante, Mary Beth Devenney ’06, Don Hufford, and Nicole Kiefer ’10 after speaking with Shanahan students.

To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.

(Thomas Aquinas)

By Lance Corporal Daniel Mitchell ’12, USMC

on my leave from military duty, I had the privilege of speaking

to students in the Shanahan classrooms on my experiences in

the military and how the virtue of faith helped me get through the

many challenges of United States Marine Corps Recruit Training.

It was great to get back into the school that gave me a tool that is

not too commonly found in society today. One thing that I found

extremely important to explain to the students was how lucky we

really have it in high school, more specifically Bishop Shanahan!

Every day that we get to talk to our family, practice our religion,

and just be in the presence of others is such a gift, a gift that is too

commonly overlooked. While I have not served in a combat environ-

ment yet, I look forward to that day when I have the opportunity

and I know the virtues and gifts given to me by Shanahan and the

Catholic community will help me more than any physical tool I

could be given. n


A l u M n i n e W s

Activities “between classes” through the yearsShanahan Flashes Back!

1961 - Audio visual mechanics

1971 - “Shanaviews”

1982 - Concert Band

1993 - Father Daughter Dance 1995 - Chorus 1997 - Halloween

1971 - Cheerleaders

1986 - Cheering on your team 1989 - Street Hockey

1977 - Girls Basketball

1966 - Football1964 - Charlie’s Aunt


A l u M n i n e W s

Juan Rodriguez retired after 40 years as a custodian at Bishop Shanahan. He is pictured here in 1979 and at his retirement celebration. We thank Juan and wish him much happiness in his retirement!

thanks for 40 years of service!

Excerpts re-printed from “Central Florida

Lifestyle Magazine”

a s an Air force veteran, Courtney

Miller ’02, knows how important it is

to feel welcome in places away from home.

Her deployments to the Middle East as a

security forces specialist solidified the notion

that being welcome is vital to being well, and

so she sets out each day to ensure Orlando’s

veterans are welcomed to the Lake Baldwin

Outpatient Clinic as part of the Orlando VA

Medical Center’s Concierge Service. “While

the Lake Baldwin OPC exists for veterans,

the size of the clinic can be overwhelming,”

says Miller, walking quickly to assist a new

veteran and his wife to the elevator bank.

“Many of our veterans don’t know where

they’re going at first, so we guide and assist

them in finding their way.” The concierge

team, comprised mostly of veterans, under-

stands how daunting a medical center can be

to navigate.

As for Miller, she will be attending the

University of Central florida to complete her

“Between Classes” Courtney Miller ’02 assists fellow veterans

undergraduate degree in biomedical science

before heading off to become a physician’s

assistant, all courtesy of the education ben-

efits she earned while serving her country.

In the meantime, you can expect to see her

serving veterans at Lake Baldwin as part of a

dedicated effort to show gratitude and hos-

pitality to America’s heroes simply by lend-

ing them a helping hand. “I hope this clinic

stands out in showing veterans just how

important they are to us, and I hope they feel

welcome and have a wonderful experience

while they’re here,” she says. n

a hero’s welcome

Steve Braun ’06 stopped in to visit his wife and in-laws at the “Stitching Sisters” table at the Shanahan Craft Show on December 6th. From left, Joye Wentz ’69, Kristin Wentz Taylor McElroy ’03, Sara Taylor Kenna ’00 (holding baby Natalie Kenna ’33?), and Caitlin Taylor Braun ’07 sell their homemade scarves, table runners, placemats and assorted other items. The Wentz Taylor family regularly supports the Craft Show – we are happy to have you be a part of this festive event!

Alumni support Craft Show

Alexandra Pease ’06, pictured here with her mother, Diane, supported the Craft Show with her beautiful and intricately detailed felt Christmas ornaments and decorations.


A l u M n i n e W s

Excepts taken from SJU basketball program –

Nov. 22, 2014

in between classes at Bishop Shanahan, Mike Booth ’14 was a 4-year varsity bas-

ketball player and currently holds the school record for three-point field goals in a season. In his senior year, he averaged 18 points per game and earned All-ChesMont, National League honors and was also selected to the All-Area, Second Team. His talent took him to St. Joseph’s University where he earned a spot as a walk-on guard at the Division 1 basketball program coached by Phil Martelli. His Saint Joe’s roots go back to his grandfather, Harry Booth, who was both captain and then later head coach of the Hawks basketball team and is a member of the Saint Joseph Athletics Hall


Alumni athletes play at college levelMikE Booth ’14 playS BaSkEtBall at St. JoSEph’S

of Fame. “I always wanted to go to St. Joe’s since I was a kid,” Booth said, “so when the opportunity presented itself, I jumped on it right away. They’re doing a great job helping me integrate with the team. I want to help any way I can and make the players and the team better. Personally, I want to improve on every aspect of my game and adjust to this new level.” n

colin Egan ’12 ExcElS at JohnS hopkinS univErSity

colin Egan ’12 was selected for both

the 2014 d3football.com First Team All-America and the CoSIDA/Capital One Academic All-District football team. Colin is an offensive lineman at Johns Hopkins University and was the only non-senior starter for his team. With Colin leading the way, Johns Hopkins led the Central Conference in average points per game (40.1) and yards per game (454). In order for a player to be considered for the academic honor, he must be a varsity starter who has maintained a minimum 3.3 GPA. Congratulations, Colin! n

what a lEgacy!

dESignEr Bag Bingo waS a BlaSt!Eleanor Parsons, P ’00, Alison Morgan, P ’17 and Patricia Knecht, P ’02, ’04 have fun at Designer Bag Bingo in the Fall. This alumni-run event benefits student scholarships at BSHS!

hall of Fame honors for Jerry klein ’66

E xecutive Vice President of Anne Klein

Communications Group, LLC, Gerhart L. (Jerry) Klein, Esq. ’66, received the Lew Klein Alumni in the Media Award and was

inducted into the Temple university School of Communication Hall of Fame on Friday, September 26, 2014

“When I look at the list of those who have received this honor over the past 14 years, I am truly humbled to be included,” said Klein.

Each year, these awards honor Temple alumni who have achieved excellence in media and communications. The Lew Klein Awards ceremony has been the signature event for the School of Media and Communication since 2000.

During his accomplished 45-year career, Klein has been a broadcast and print jour-nalist, practicing attorney, public relations firm owner, head of a worldwide PR net-work and leader of Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia. n

coMing For a viSit? We are grateful that many alumni love to visit their Alma Mater. Shanahan is more than happy to welcome you back. Because our students are actively learning throughout the day, we ask any alumna/us who is coming to Shanahan to visit to please plan ahead. If you will be arriving during school hours, schedule an appointment with the teacher with whom you’ll be visiting so he/she can plan to welcome you during a free period. If you do not have an appointment with a faculty member, we kindly ask that you visit after 2:45pm to avoid disrupting classes that are in session. We appreciate your understanding!

112Alumni Parents

112 alumni are parents and 23 alumni are grandparents of current Shanahan students – this speaks to their loyalty and commitment to Shanahan and Catholic education.

23Alumni Grandparents


s A i n t A g n e s h i g h s c h o o l n e W s

Above are scenes from the Passion play After Calvery, written by Msgr. Schuyler

Flashback! Remember what you did “between classes” at Saint Agnes High School?

russel hurst – oldest known alumnus of Saint Agnes High School (Class of 1929) passed away recently at age 102.


A d v A n c e M e n t

StudEntS ExprESS gratitudE to donorS By card writing and phonE callSStudents take time between classes to make thank you calls and to write thank you notes to Shanahan Fund donors.


8th Annual BSHS Golf Outing


Students say “Thank You!”

Sept. 15 is the next golf outing!Another beautiful day was on tap for the 8th Annual BSHS Golf Outing to support the Endowment Fund which helps students in need of financial assistance. This premier event, held at French Creek Golf Club in Elverson, had over 120 golfers participate, helping to raise $68,000 for the endowment. Pictured above, the Golf team takes time out from class to help at the outing. Golfers (pictured at right) pause from playing the “Beat the Student” contest on one of the holes. Don’t miss out on next year’s Golf Outing to be held on Tuesday, September 15th. n

ANNUAL REPORT GOES GREENAs our school community strives to increase its global awareness, we have decided to “go green” with our Annual Report of Donor Giving. We hope that by doing this, we will be good and conscientious stewards of the world’s precious resources. To see our Annual Report online, please go to www.shanahan.org and look for it under the ‘support shanahan’ tab. We are grateful to the many donors who support Bishop Shanahan in so many ways! n



alBErt ’03 and whitnEy roBErtS SardElla ’04 were married on June 2, 2014

at Our Lady of the Rosary Church. In their wedding

were the following Shanahan Alumni. Groomsmen

were Steve Foley ’03, Matthew McGowan ’03,

Frank Cunningham ’03, Christopher Roberts ’03,

Jim Olenik ’03, Sean Munnis ’03, and John Sardella

’07. The Bridesmaids were Carli Roberts ’11, Lauren

Curran Foley ’03, Cara Winton Gunther ‘04,Kelly

Hoover Murphy ’04, Kelli Feerar ’04 and Gina

Sardella Cunningham ’05.

JoEy ’08 and MEghan pEtErSon ’08 caScarEllihow wE MEt...

We met sophomore year at Bishop Shanahan High School sitting in Señora

Meyers Spanish class. Later in high school, we ran into each other again as

leaders of school clubs. After dating for a little while, we eventually decided

to go our separate ways for college. In the winter of 2012, our friends decided

that we had to “run into” each other again. Meghan didn’t know that it was a

setup at the time, but she eventually realized that she was happy to have “run

into” Joey again. Meanwhile, Joey confirmed that he had to marry her. Five

members of their bridal party were Shanahan alumni including: Jessica Corry

’08, Margaret Eisler ’08, Matthew Wentzel ’08, Daniel Hart ’08, and Nicholas

Shirley ’08.

Note: Joey and Meghan were married on January 3, 2015.

MichaEl ’09 and Molly Mccarthy ’09 grEEnhow wE MEt...

Our story starts way back in the early 2000’s when our sisters,

Kathleen McCarthy Hartman ’02 and Meghan Green Santomarco

’02, became friends at Shanahan. They soon realized they had a

younger sister & a younger brother and began joking that they

would one day start dating. The jokes continued when our sisters,

Sheila McCarthy Ayers ’05 and Lauren Greene Rambo ’05, also

became friends at Shanahan. Michael and I first met with a quick

“hello” while seeing our sisters at a Shanahan play in 2003. In August 2005, we met again

while attending pre-high school activities. With my sisters’ encouragement, I took the initiative

and started talking to Michael. Over the next few weeks, we continued talking online and on

the phone. On September 13, 2005, less than a week into our freshman year, we decided to

become an “official” couple. And the rest is history... : )

Note: Mike and Molly were married on August 2, 2014.

G“Between Classes”

Shanahan Sweethearts



Advancement Director Maureen Morin, P’98, ’02, ’05, ’[email protected]

Director of the Shanahan Fund Amy Seifert, P’08, ’10, ’13, ’[email protected] of Alumni Affairs/ Events Coordinator

Shanahan Society inductees:At the recent President’s Society reception, several members were formally inducted into The Shanahan Society. Pictured (l to r) are: Paul Morin, Maureen Morin, Lou Teti, Donna Tait Coulson, John Celii, Patricia Cloud Celii, Kim Krempa Schneider, Duke Schneider, Kathleen Capriotti, Kevin Gillespie, Donna Gillespie, Mary Kay Conahan Hennessy, Mike Cabry, and Beth Harper Briglia. Thank you for investing in Shanahan’s future!

The Advancement Staff of Bishop ShanahanMeghan Cascarelli ’[email protected]

Alumni Relations Coordinator Eileen Cornell, P’93, ’95, ’[email protected]

Data Input Sr. Dorothy Mayer, [email protected]

On EaglEs’ Wings

ThE shanahan

sOciETy

t he Shanahan Society membership includes our cherished alumni, parents and friends who, as loyal

visionaries and generous benefactors of our school have included Bishop Shanahan in their will or estate plan. Through their Planned Gift, they have committed to securing the mission and the legacy of Bishop Shanahan into the future.

Anonymous (2)

Beth Harper Briglia & Michael Briglia, P’12, ’17

Michael & Donna Cabry, P ’08

Ms. Kathleen Capriotti ’74, P ’06, Faculty

Patricia (Cloud) Celii ’61 & John Celii Jr. ’61

Mr. Robert Degnan, Former Faculty

Mr. Eugene Diorio, St. Agnes ’50

Eugene Favinger ’59, P ’94, ’98

Kevin & Donna Gillespie, P ’13

Ann D. Giunta ’61 & Leonard Giunta ’58

Fr. Matthew Guckin, School Minister

Mike Hennessy ’75 † & Mary Kay Conahan Hennessy ’75, P ’00, ’04

Robert E. Hennessy ’04

John ’66 & Susan ’66 Huber

Mr. Eugene Huston, Jr. ’59

Msgr. Daniel E. Kehoe, Founding Principal †

Gerhart ’66 & Anne Klein

Mr. Fred Koppenhafer, St. Agnes ’50

Mrs. Zelinda LeBoutillier †

Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Levasseur, P ’05

Mr. Philip Mascherino ’95

Paul & Maureen Morin, P ’98, ’02, ’05, ’08

Mr. John Mulgrew ’90

Leo ’78 & Maryanne Parsons

Robert ’67 & Marilyn Parsons

Kim (Krempa) Schneider ’82 & Duke Schneider, P ’11, ’14

Mr. Francis Tait ’65 †

Louis N. & Joann M. Teti

Kathleen E. Thornton, St. Agnes ’50 †

Alfred ’65 & Deborah Yudes

If you are interested in remembering Bishop Shanahan High School in your estate plans, please contact the

Advancement Office at 610-343-6255.

† Deceased

Aetna / Bravo FoundationAustill’s Rehabilitation Services, Inc.Cigas Machine Shop, IncClompus & Reto Vision Assoc. PCCommunications Test Design, Inc. Connor, Weber & OberliesCSX Transportation/

Bridge FoundationDNB First, National AssociationDellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd

Funeral HomeEnterprise Rent-a-Car /

Bridge Foundation Faith in the Future via Undesignated

FundsFirst Resource BankG. O. Carlson, Inc.HRM USA, Inc.HSC Builders & Construction ManagersInfinity Benefits Group, Inc.James B. Griffin, P.C.

Joe Hand PromotionsLasko Group, Inc.Lebanon Seaboard CorporationLubker DistributionRonald and Sharon LuongoPenn Liberty BankSchaper Associates, Inc.Swiatek OrthodonticsSterling Services, Inc. The Gilbertson GroupThe Guinan Financial GroupThe Mutual Fire Foundation, Inc.The Norwood CompanyThe Summit Group Associates, Inc.The Ziegler FamilyTri-State Technical Sales Corp.Veltek Associates, Inc. Von Urff & AssociatesViroPharma, Inc.William P. McGovern Inc.

Thank you to our EITC/ OSTC Sponsors!


W h A t ’ s n e W W i t h y o u ?

the 1960sJerry Klein ’61 and his ice hockey team found out that third time was the golden charm. After win-ning silver at the annual Snoopy Senior World Ice Hockey Tournament in 2012 and 2013 they won the gold medal and championship in 2014.

Marie Litz Bowers ’62 and husband, Robert, are retired and enjoy taking day trips in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and museums and his-toric places. Marie writes that the nuns are always in her heart.

Ed Robinson ’65 is enjoying his retirement and looking forward to our Class of 1965’s 50 year reunion

the 1990sKevin P. Favinger ’98 and Ana Carmin Bautista will marry on May 16, 2015 in the Chapel of the Diocesan Seminary, Mexicali, Mexico. Kevin’s dad, Rev. Mr. Eugene Favinger ’62 will officiate.

Tim Horstmann ’98 and wife Asma welcomed their son, William Aydin Horstmann, on November 10, 2014. Aydin weighed 8lbs.1oz and was 20.5 inches long. All are doing well.

the 2000sMichael Rowley ’02 graduated from Neumann university with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. He is the lead Physical Therapist at Kearsley Rehabilitation in Philadelphia.

Benjamin Sturm ’04 is an analyst for Cloudburst Consulting Group, Inc. in Landover, MD.

Chris Mulhall ’06 was elected Mayor of the Borough of Honey Brook on November 5, 2013. He is planning to run again in 2017. At the time of his swearing in Chris was the youngest mayor in Pennsylvania. In addition to being mayor he is the Chief of Staff to the State Representative Becky Corbin. Chris likes to stay busy and involved in his community. He is also a guest lecturer at The College of New Jersey once a semester for their Political Science Department.

Peter Sturm ’07 works in the Marketing Dept. for Sears Home Town in Chicago, IL.

Aryn Doll ’09 graduated summa cum laude from Philadelphia University where she studied Fashion Merchandising and Management. She was Valedictorian of her graduating class and the recipient of the Delta Sigma Pi award, which goes to the student with the highest GPA in the School of Business.

Anne Sturm ’09 is the General Manager of Strand Capital Performing Arts Center in York, PA.

the 2010sStephanie Byard ’11 a senior at Penn State is a recipient of the Evan Pugh Scholar Award for juniors and seniors who are in the upper 5% of their respective classes. The recipients this year have a cumulative GPA of 3.99 and above.

What’s new?Colette Farhat ’12 a student at Stevenson University was inducted into Sigma Alpha Pi, the National Honor Society of Leadership and Success.

Michaela Dettinger ’12 is a junior majoring in biology at Lebanon Valley College. She repre-sented the school in July 2014 at America Youth on Parade (AYOP) a national competition for the sport of baton twirling which was hosted at the university of Notre Dame. She competed in the “Down the Field” event against 75 other twirlers from major universities and colleges and earned 7th place. Michaela also earned the title of open World Intermediate Solo (2013 & 2014) and Strut (2014) for her first place wins in these events, fifth place in the pageant, second place in duet and fourth place in the two-baton event.

Timothy Lambert ’13 received the President’s Award for Distinguished Academic Achievement from Bucknell University. It is awarded annually to those students who demonstrate the highest level of academic achievement by attaining a cumula-tive 4.00. He is a sophomore in the Bachelor of Music program majoring in Music Education.

Alexandra Harrer ’14 and Daniel Nazario ’14, student musicians studying at the Downingtown School of Rock, were selected to be All-Stars in one of 6 bands made up of the best students from the schools around Chester County.

Alexandra will be part of a band on the Midwest circuit. Alex sings and plays keyboard. As a member of one of these six bands she will get to experience life.

Daniel will be playing in a band on either the East Coast circuit or the Midwest circuit. Dan is a drummer. As a member of one of these 6 bands he too will get to experience life as a rock ‘n roll star.

Audrey Rucker ’14 is one of six freshmen named an Apogee Scholar by the Oskin Leadership Institute at Widener University for their high potential for leading change on campus and in their communities. As a senior last year she received the Widener University High School Leadership Award.

current StudentsKevin Conners ’15 a four year member of the golf team finished his career at Shanahan by being named the 2014 Daily Local News All-Area Golfer of the Year. Earlier he had a 3rd Place Finish in the PIAA Boys’ Golf Class AAA Championships. He placed one stroke out of a playoff for the title. As a rising senior this past summer he won the Golf Association of Philadelphia’s Christman Cup by carding a 1-under par 139 to win the tournament by two strokes. Kevin will continue his golf career at the university of Notre Dame.

Joseph Kelly ’15 received the Widener University High School Leadership Award and had his name placed on a plaque to be displayed in school.

Make sure we have your current home and email addresses.

Send us your updated professional and educational information, achievements or awards, marriages, births, and any other news!

Email your updated information to [email protected]

St@y Connected

don’t Miss out on the latest reunions, alumni events, alumni socials, Homecoming and more BSHS happenings.



Kelly Hoover ’04 to Ryan Murphy September 13, 2014

He was selected from nominees in the tri-state area to receive this award, along with a $20,000 scholarship to Widener. Joseph was also invited to participate in a leadership experience at Widener University.

Salena Ringenbach ’16 received a Widener University High School Leadership Award for mak-ing a difference in the community by dedicating her time to academics and service. As an honor student she provides homework assistance for fel-low classmates to increase their success in school.

Bishop Shanahan high School

John V. Doan ’67 May 20,2014

Longina Rusling Pietro ’66 June 19, 2014

Daniel P. Willimann ’93 August 10, 2014

Judith Ehrgott August 12, 2014

former faculty 1983-1989 CCIU Reading Specialist

Anne Marie MacNeill Peterson ’70 August 31, 2014

David M. Riley ’63 September 21, 2014

William f. Zielinski ’67 October 9, 2014

Gregory L. Barnes ’67 October 19, 2014

Jordan M. Douglas ’06 October 20, 2014

Rev. John Edward fitzgerald October 20, 2014

former Principal 1970 – 1975

Dean R. Zampana ’76 November 17, 2014

Robert Degnan November 18, 2014

former faculty 1975-2002

Sara Ann (Sally) McDevitt ’64 November 20, 2014

Mary Donahue O’Neill ’62 November 21, 2014

Anthony D. Agatone ’86 December 12, 2014

Dianne Bushnell ’63 January 11, 2015

Joseph R. Lunsford, Sr. ’62 January 12, 2015

Patricia Matulay Seibert ’67 January 16, 2015

Jean farrell Esposito ’67 february 2, 2015

In Loving Memory of Our Deceased AlumniMay they rest in peace

Alumni, we need your help! Since many of our alumni live out of the area, we may not receive notification of the death of an alumnus/a. If you should learn of the death of one of your classmates or fellow alumni, please email the Advancement Office ([email protected]) so that we may send a mass card to the family. Please email the name of the alumnus/a, the date of death, and where the alumnus/a lived. Thank you for your help!

Charles T. Scott ’67 february 22, 2015

Mary Yanni Semonelle ’64 March 3, 2015

St. agnes high School alumni

Mary Jarrett Davis ’52 January 19, 2014

Alma Delpino Jackson ’39 June 11, 2014

frank J. McCormick ’50 August 2, 2014

Ann “Nancy” Doran Amole ’43 August 8, 2014

Mary Agnes Newman McWilliams ’52 August 15, 2014

Mary E. Hunt ’38 August 21, 2014

Joan LaChapelle Miller ’42 September 18, 2014

Arlene Wahls Davis ’55 October 22, 2014

Gertrude Cosgrove Conner ’35 November 30, 2014

William Henry Quill ’51 December 1, 2014

Emelyn Waldron Ruggiero ’55 December 27, 2014

Robert V. ‘Ace’ McCormick ’51 January 7,2015

Margaret Denny Heller ’50 february 5, 2015

Russel f. Hurst ’29 february 7, 2015

Grace McCormick DiProspero ’52 february 13, 2015

Anne M. DiSanti ’46 february 21, 2015

Mary frances Grubb ’46 March 25, 2015

MarriagesJulia B. Callaghan ’03 to Daniel H. Sturm September 6, 2014

Jason Knezo ’03 to Ashlee Ogurcak August 23, 2014

Albert Sardella ’03 to Whitney Roberts ’04 June 7, 2014

Meghan S. O’Leary ’04 to Luke V.Turner June 28, 2014

Sean Cunningham ’06 to Alexandra Dickinson ’06 February 22, 2014

Alexander Byard ’08 to Shannon Griffin ’08 July 26, 2014

Joseph Cascarelli ’08 to Meghan Peterson ’08 January 3, 2015

Matthew Kentrup ’08 to Mary Kate Kelly ’08 April 26, 2014

Michael Green ’09 to Molly McCarthy ’09 August 2, 2014

Continued on page 24



lovE you MoM!Fr. Kevin McCabe’s mother visited for Rosary Day in November where Father spoke of a mother’s love.

order your “Walk of fame” commemorative Bricks

Remember a loved one or a happy memory with a BSHS commemorative brick. The bricks have been placed across the bus loop from the main entrance of the school. Come see or better yet, if you haven’t already done so order your brick!

“walk of Fame” commemorative Bricks

$100 Per Brick. Up to 3 lines and 15 characters per line for each brick_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Name ______________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________

City/State/Zip ________________________________________________________

Phone ( ) ____________________________________________________________

Email ______________________________________________________________

Class Year __________________

MAIL TO:

Bishop Shanahan High School, Attn: Maureen Morin

220 Woodbine Road, Downingtown, PA 19335-3081

Bricks will be placed after a minimum of 10 orders are received.

Follow Bishop Shanahan!

BirthsTim Horstmann ’98 and wife Asma welcomed a son William Aydin on November 10, 2014

Continued from page 23

Carolyn Schustrich McLaughlin ’01 and husband Jeff welcomed a daughter Grace Rosalie on April 29, 2014

Thom Hayn ’02 and wife Celine welcomed a daughter Stella Regina on December 2, 2014

Kevin Karabin ’03 and wife Liz, welcomed a son John Lawrence on December 17, 2014

Jennifer McGovern Lubas ’03 and husband Ryan, welcomed a daughter Charlotte Grace on November 23, 2014

Samantha Schroth Allen ’05 and husband Ray Allen, welcomed a daughter Elizabeth Katharine on January 14, 2015

Christopher Shane ’04 and wife Kristine Snader Shane ’05, welcomed a son Tyler Lucas on December 24, 2014

Margaret Tonetti Eisler ’08 and husband Mark, welcomed a daughter Leila on September 22, 2014

Like us! www.facebook.com/ BishopShanahan

Tweet us! twitter.com/Bishop_Shanahan

MEMoraBlE MoMEntS at Shanahan

delivering christmas gifts entertaining children thumbs up for shanahan!

st. patrick’s parade homecoming fun!

students at March for life

cinderella

Non Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDBoston, MA

Permit No. 55356

Bishop Shanahan High SchoolOffice of Advancement

220 Woodbine Road Downingtown, Pennsylvania 19335-3081

Address Service Requested

phone: 610-518-1300 fax: 610-343-6220www.shanahan.org

In an effort to ‘go green’, Shanahan is communicating more and more frequently via email. We don’t want you to miss any of the news, announcements, events, reunions, etc. regarding Bishop Shanahan. If you are not currently receiving Shanahan emails, please contact us at [email protected] so that we can add your email address to our distribution lists.

alumni, don’t miss out on Shanahan news!

where’s Shanahan?cheerleaders compete at nationals in orlando, florida!

If you are a parent and your alumnus son or alumna daughter is not receiving a magazine at their own home address, please have them contact [email protected] with their current address information so that we can share with them all that is happening at BSHS! Thank you.

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