Thank you, Father Bob! - Spring 2021 - Roncalli High School
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Spring 2021 Thank you, Father Bob!
SPRING UPDATE 2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2
10 PERSPECTIVE 12 SHOW CHOIR 13 VALEDICTORIAN & SALUTATORIAN
04 Point of View 11 National Merit Finalist
17 Garcia Receives
Abe Lincoln Award
06 Revelations 14 ACT Super Stars 18 Lenten Projects
08 Advancement Angle 14 Speech Team to State 20 Scholastic Awards
09
Christmas
Performances 16 Senior Assist Day 22 Kegerreis Silver
Anniversary Team
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021
Update Magazine is published by the Office of Institutional Advancement under the direction of Terese R. Carson, Vice President
for Institutional Advancement. Its intent is to be a vehicle to inform alumni, family and friends of recent and upcoming happenings
and achievements at the school, as well as showcase the talents and gifts of its students, faculty and alumni.
Editor-in-Chief: Terese Carson | Deputy Editors: Jeen Endris, Tina Hayes and Gary Armbruster R’81 | Design Director: Jeen Endris |
Photographers: John Smith, Stefan Welsh, Phil Anderson, Jeen Endris | Inquiries/Correspondence: Fran Davey, Roncalli High School,
3300 Prague Road, Indianapolis, IN 46227, (317) 787-8277 ext. 238 fdavey@roncalli.org. Website: www.roncalli.org
Circulation: 13,037 Email: update@roncalli.org
FOR EDITORIAL INFORMATION, CONTACT TERESE CARSON AT (317) 787-8277, EXT. 240 OR TCARSON@RONCALLI.ORG
MISSION STATEMENT
As a Catholic high school, our
pledge is to provide, in concert with
parents, parish and community, an
educational opportunity which seeks to
form Christian leaders in body, mind and
spirit.
Guided by prayer and the Gospel
values of faith, love and justice, students
are challenged to respond to the call of
discipleship and to fulfill their potential
as lifelong learners in service to others.
Our end is to make God’s love
complete among us.
ADMINISTRATION 3
INTERIM PRESIDENT:
Rev. Robert Robeson, VF, Ph.D., M.Ed.
PRINCIPAL:
Charles Weisenbach R’79
15 26
VICE PRESIDENT FOR
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK ATHLETIC REVIEWS INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT:
Terese R. Carson, Hon’18
VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE AND
23 Bischoff Indiana
All-Star Team 36 Bruster’s Bits
FACILITIES:
Dave Gervasio R’85
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL FOR
ACADEMICS:
38 Class Notes
Beth Reel
24 New Coaches ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL FOR
STUDENT LIFE:
Kevin Banich R’09
Archbishop Thompson
33 Collegiate Commitments 44 Visits Roncalli
DEAN OF STUDENTS:
Tim Crissman
GUIDANCE DIRECTOR:
Lisa Beckwith R’01
35 Summer Camps 46 The Last Word CAMPUS MINISTRY DIRECTOR:
Jeff Traylor
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR:
David Lauck R’94
CHAPLAIN COORDINATOR:
Father Douglas Hunter
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIAL
POINT OF VIEW
A Challenging Time
Rev. Robert Robeson, VF, Ph.D., M.Ed., Interim President
CORONAVIRUS
This past year has been beyond When we consider the many
challenging. Coronavirus, social challenges related to logistics
distancing, and communication
Zoom meetings, ...the central priority was that have come with
hybrid schedule, always doing what is best this pandemic, I am
quarantine, for our students. How can we particularly grateful
contact tracing, best keep them safe? How for the amazing, and
4 synchronous can we foster their learning sometimes virtually
learning; these and growth? How can we heroic work of our
are terms that we help them to deepen their Administrative
are very familiar relationship with Christ? Council, led by our
with today, but principal (and soon to
just a year ago, we had never really be president) Chuck Weisenbach.
encountered most of them. In this In every discussion of how to
past year we have experienced a respond to a new development,
global pandemic, widespread social and this happened on almost a
conflict, a contentious, polarizing daily basis, the central priority
election, not to mention the was always doing what is best for
controversial process of changing our students. How can we best
our nickname from the Rebels to keep them safe? How can we
the Royals. Through all of this, it foster their learning and growth?
has been clear to me that we have How can we help them to deepen
a very special community here at their relationship with Christ?
Roncalli. In my year as interim These are the questions that I
president, I have seen how our heard raised, over and over, in
school leaders and administrative our Administrative Council and
staff, our teachers, our parents President’s Council meetings, and
and our alumni always seem to go in my day to day discussions with
above and beyond in order to serve teachers and administrators.
our students and their families.
SOCIAL DISTANCING
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021
ZOOM MEETINGS
HYBRID SCHEDULE
QUARANTINE
CONTACT TRACING
I saw, first hand, the long hours is deeply committed to Roncalli’s
our administrative team put in, just mission of serving Christ by 5
to make sure that every detail was forming young women and men
worked out. I saw how beautifully in their faith; and it is an honor
our students responded to what to work with such a talented and
was asked of them and how our faithful leader. While this year has
parents cooperated and often been beyond challenging – it has
expressed their appreciation for the also been a time of great renewal.
way their children were cared for. Our faith teaches us that pain and
Most of all, I saw how Christ was struggle lead to purification and
present throughout this challenging redemption. This past year has
time, guiding our community to certainly been painful at times! It
help form Christian leaders in has also helped us to understand
body, mind and spirit. things about ourselves and our
As I begin to wrap up my year as Roncalli community; about what
interim president of Roncalli, I we are capable of, and about how
am filled with gratitude and hope we can better live the life that God
for the future. I know that Chuck has called us to live. For this we can
Weisenbach will be a remarkable all be grateful.
leader as the new president. He St. John XXIII…………
Pray for us!
SYNCHRONOUS LEARNING
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIAL
REVELATIONS
Partners
Fr. Peter Marshall, Pastor of St. Jude Catholic Church
When I arrived at St. Jude in July of Second, Catholic schools partner with
2019, Dr. Joe Hollowell came to meet local parishes in important ways. The
with me in my office. Even though I central mission of the parish (any parish)
knew him and his family, he wanted to is to proclaim the Good News of Jesus
officially welcome me as a new pastor in Christ within a particular geographic
the South Deanery and as a new neighbor area. In this way, Roncalli serves, again,
to Roncalli. In the meeting I told Dr. as a means of amplifying the message
Hollowell that I saw St. Jude and Roncalli of the Parish. By participating in the
as partners. And, partners is a good sacrament of the Eucharist on the
word for how I view Catholic education. weekend, our youth are prepared to
This partnership has several important receive further instruction and formation
dimensions. in the Faith during the week at Roncalli.
First, Catholic schools, both elementary True conversion takes time, effort and
and secondary, partner with parents and repetition. The participation in the
grandparents in teaching our children life of the parish should naturally flow
and youth about God and the Church; into participation in the community of
in passing on the Faith. In the Catholic Roncalli. And, the formation during the
6 ritual of baptism, parents are reminded week at Roncalli should naturally lead
several times that they are the “first to a fuller experience of the Mass on the
teachers” of the Faith to their children. weekend in the parish. Having deanery
While many parents are uncertain, or priests present for sacraments and other
even anxious, about talking with their events at Roncalli visually and tangibly
children about spiritual matters, God reinforces the bond of the Spirit that
gives the grace to teach to all parents. unites us all as one Church.
Catholic schools function to amplify I know that our community has faced
and clarify the messages that children real and important challenges over the
receive at home. Catholic schools can past few years as we attempt to grow as
never replace the influence and example a community of disciples. In deepening
that parents provide for their children. In and strengthening the Catholic identity
today’s culture, all of us are bombarded by of Roncalli, we all enhance our ability
messages contrary to the Faith. Catholic to effectively proclaim the Good News
schools like Roncalli serve as a place of of Jesus Christ. As partners, Roncalli
refuge and strength to allow our youth to and the local parish are working hard to
hear the Truth of God’s word, and a space help families truly live as the Domestic
in which to wrestle with reconciling the Church, and together we pass on the
messages of this world with that Truth. Faith to our youth.
All of us who support Catholic education
participate in the support given to
Catholic families.
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021
How are
you feeling
today?
Check in with your co-workers, friends, family and neighbors.
Ask them, “How are you feeling today?” Someone you know
may be delaying important emergency care, chronic care or
emotional care. Remind them to get the care they need.
Remind them to reconnect with their doctor about ongoing care needs,
and that delaying care could impact their health in a negative way.
Remind them to ask about emotional health needs and health concerns
that might be weighing on them.
At Ascension St. Vincent, appointments are available, with strict
precautions in place for your safety in our care. Doctors are offering
virtual visits. And when your friends and family need care more urgently,
our emergency rooms and urgent care clinics are open and ready.
Share this message. And find the care you need at
GetStVincentCare.com
© Ascension 2020. All rights reserved.
ADVANCEMENT ANGLE
It's a Match!
Terese R. Carson, Hon’18, Vice President for Institutional Advancement
I can never say THANK YOU enough! Thank you to everyone in our Roncalli
community who prays for us, supports us financially and gives so generously of
your time and talent. The RHS family continues to be blessed on a daily basis.
I like free! Anything free - free samples, buy one get one free, free advice (well
most of the time!). Are you like me and you like free stuff? If so, I have an idea
that I want to share with you or this might be a good reminder for some.
If you could double your donation dollars, wouldn’t that be great? That would be
free money to Roncalli. Your gift of $100 could become $200! Not only would
you be doubling your donation, but you would also be doubling the impact of
your gift on the lives of Roncalli students.
There are many employers, both local and national, that have matching gift
programs for their employees. Most of these are dollar for dollar. The process is
quite simple with an on-line submission to a website through your company/
employer. If you’re unsure as to whether or not your company offers a matching
gift program, please give us a call. We’re here to help - and we’re here to double
your gift.
8
Companies that we receive matches from:
Bank of America, Duke Energy, Eli Lilly, Medtronics,
PepsiCo, PNC Financial Group, SalesForce, Verizon ...
These and many more!
Does your employer match giving?
Call us at 317.787.8277 ext 238, and
we can help you find out!
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021
Intermediate Mixed Chorus
PERFORMING ARTS
SHOWCASE TALENT AT
CHRISTMAS SHOW
The Roncalli community began
ringing in the Christmas season
by attending a series of six
Choral concerts that took place
on December 8th and 9th.
Because of COVID guidelines
that restricted the audience we
could have in our auditorium, 9
each choir - Advanced Women’s
Chorus, Beginning Women’s
Chorus, Intermediate Mixed
Left to right: Beginning Mixed Chorus members juniors Noah Cissell,
Chorus, Show Choir, and both Luke Briggeman and senior Sam Secrest
periods of Beginning Mixed
Chorus each had their own mini
concert, with only their parents The concert band, jazz band and orchestra, led by
in attendance. Mr. Joey Newton director Ms. Kathy Peach, Hon’04, entertained virtually
R’03 led the choral groups. The due to COVID restrictions.
performances were recorded and
shared.
Advanced Women’s Chorus
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIAL
PERSPECTIVE
Game On, Royals!
Kevin Banich R’09, Assistant Principal for Student Life
Our athletic department has a rich history
and tradition offering student athletes
an opportunity to participate in a total
of 27 different sports for boys and girls.
During the last 52 years, Roncalli has
been home to student athletes who have
earned scholarships to play at the NCAA universities are beginning to actively
Division I, Division II and National recruit and offer financial assistance to
Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Esports athletes based on their skill set,
(NAIA) levels. On a few occasions, our rankings and championships. Even before
alumni have used their collegiate careers we joined the HSEL, Roncalli has alumni
to launch into jobs as both professional who have earned scholarships to play
athletes and coaches at different levels. on collegiate teams and began careers
At the beginning of 2021, Roncalli from their video game playing days.
announced a new type of athlete: the Our alumni are entering the workforce
Esports athlete. as computer programmers, software
engineers and even professional Esports
Across the country, there are over 3,100
10 athletes.
schools and 100,000 student athletes
competing in the High School Esports Are you wondering how profitable the
League (HSEL). Roncalli will be one of video game industry can be or how do
only five schools in Indianapolis and 60 the elite Esports athletes compare to the
schools across the state that are competing traditional sports stars? In 2019, a 16-year
this year. In our first HSEL Winter old earned the title of Fortnite World
Challenge, 40 student athletes competed Cup Champion, and his winnings for that
in Chess, Rocket League, Super Smash tournament earned him $3 million.
Brothers or NBA 2K21. Our athletes
are competing on a variety of platforms Playing video games to earn money and
that include the PC, Nintendo Switch, make a living - for a kid, this might seem
Playstations, Xbox and mobile devices. like a dream come true. For a parent,
this might sound like something a kid
Similar to our athletes competing in made up to get a new gaming console
traditional sports, our Esports athletes are or 15 more minutes of playing time. For
competing to earn scholarships and open Roncalli, it is the newest way for our
up possible career pathways. Each of the students to be connected, showcase their
four HSEL seasons provide students with talents, win scholarship money and find
the opportunity to win scholarships in the potential career opportunities. And who
amount of $500 to $1,000 that can be knows, maybe the next Esports World
applied towards the college or university Champions will have begun their career as
of their choice. In addition, colleges and a Roncalli Royal! Game on, Royals!
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021MOORE NAMED NATIONAL MERIT FINALIST
One member of the Roncalli High School class of 2021 earned
the distinction of National Merit Finalist (top 1% in the
nation). This honor is based upon PSAT scores from his junior
year.
Congratulations to Liam Moore, our National Merit Finalist
for 2021.
Liam Moore
INDIANA ALL-STATE HONOR CHOIR
11
(top left to right) Freshmen Anita Conn and Patrisha Luzietti, sophomore
Fletcher Hooten, (bottom left to right) junior Ian Knight, and seniors Hayden Bean
and Ali Dafforn
In early February, these six Royals earned a place in the Indiana All-State
Honor Choir. This auditioned choir is made up of 150 students
from all over Indiana. The choir will perform in the spring at the
Palladium in Carmel.
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALROYAL RHAPSODY SHOW CHOIR
Royal Rhapsody had a fantastic season, sophomores Fletcher Hooten and Adia
performing a show centered around Dant. Sophomore Morgan Beaupre
maps and directions. Songs included was also featured in a dance solo.
“Show Me the Way” by Styx, “Lost in
Choral Director Joey Newton R’03
the Woods” from Frozen 2, “We Know
said, “More than anything, all of us
the Way” from Moana, and “Compass”
involved in the show - from tech crew
by Lady A. There are not many choirs
to choreographers to performers - are
that were able to beat Royal Rhapsody,
just thankful for the fact that we simply
12 as they won Grand Champion titles at
got to perform this year. The added
two competitions, and were awarded
challenges of performing in masks,
First Runner Up at their remaining
having fewer rehearsals, and being
four. Their show featured soloist
on a hybrid schedule did not keep us
sophomores Ellie Buening, Amelia
from putting together a fantastic and
Warner, junior Xavier Wilson, a trio of
successful show.”
sophomores Ava Nelson, Adia Dant,
and Ellie Buening, as well as a duet of
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021HAHN VALEDICTORIAN, PRATHER SALUTATORIAN
distributing food at local food pantries
in our community, two years supporting
young student-athletes in sporting
events and programming, and four years
brightening the day of the elderly in
our community through her work with
local nursing homes and homebound
neighbors.
For the past two years, Hahn has been
a varsity athlete, and she earned academic
all-state in lacrosse in 2020.
Hahn, who attended St. Jude Catholic
School, plans to major in neuroscience
with minors in psychology and English.
She is the daughter of Julie and Patric
Hahn.
Prather has shown incredible dedication
throughout high school. She is a member
of the National Honor Society and was
awarded Accelerated/Dual Credit Pre-
Calculus and Trigonometry Student of the 13
Year.
Prather’s strengths continue outside of the
(left to right) Rachel Hahn and classroom. With well over the required
Lauren Prather amount of service hours, she has shown
the value of serving our community.
Senior Rachel Hahn was named the Prather is an active board member for
valedictorian and senior Lauren Prather was the South Deanery Dance Marathon,
named salutatorian for the Roncalli High School raising money for Riley Hospital for
class of 2021. Children and has spent countless hours
Hahn excelled inside and outside of the volunteering at the Lord’s Pantry. She
classroom. She is an AP Scholar and member also volunteers as a Eucharistic minister at
of National Honor Society. Further, Hahn her parish.
received both a Gold and Silver Key in the 2021 She is the daughter of Kelly and Joseph
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Prather. She attended Saints Francis &
Outside of the classroom, Hahn's commitment Clare of Assisi Catholic School and plans
to serving her community and extracurricular to attend college next fall for kinesiology
involvement is an impressive testament to her on the pre-physical therapy track.
character. She has spent four years sorting and
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALACT SUPERSTARS
In February
juniors Adelle
Burkhardt and
Jack Rittenhouse
earned perfect
scores on the
ACT. They are the
first of 2021 to
earn a 36 on the
ACT. What an
accomplishment! Juniors Adelle Burkhardt and Jack Rittenhouse
SPEECH TEAM TO STATE
On Saturday, March 13, four
Speech Team students competed
in the Indiana High School
Forensics Association (IHSFA) state
competition. To earn this honor, they
14 competed in the State Prelims on
February 27 and earned a top 24 spot
in the entire state in their event. We
are proud of you!
Genna Sever Hayden Bean
Prose and Duo Interpretation
- Senior Genna Sever
Duo Interpretation
- Senior Hayden Bean
Dramatic Interpretation and
Original Performance
- Junior Annemarie Bryans
Prose and Original Performance
- Junior Julia Blandford
Annemarie Bryans Julia Blandford
The following are the results from the state competition:
Genna Sever and Hayden Bean - TOP 12 in the state for Duo Interpretation
Genna Sever - TOP 12 in the state for Prose Interpretation
Annemarie Bryans - TOP 12 in the state for Dramatic Interpretation
Annemarie Bryans and Julia Blandford - SIXTH IN THE STATE in Original Performance
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
FEBRUARY 1 - 5, 2021
Roncalli’s Liturgy Leadership Team was blessed to be able to celebrate Catholic Schools Week with the Archbishop
at the Cathedral in downtown Indianapolis. Thank you for all you do for Catholic schools, Archbishop Thompson!
15
Left to right: Joey Newton, Savannah Gilmore, Rob McKay, Emma Morgan, Nicko Greene, Archbishop Thompson,
Austin Strykowski, Hannah Taylor, Jeff Traylor, Christina Kurz, Lylian Iman, Kamy Swingendorf
Roncalli students and staff members celebrated Catholic
Schools Week with a number of activities. Everyone
showed school spirit by participating in the themed dress
up days. Monday was Catholic school attire. Tuesday was
music day where everyone dressed in celebration of their
favorite singer, band, musical style or even album cover.
This was followed by “Out of this World Wednesday.”
Then came “Spring Break Thursday” as exciting vacation
attire was worn by all. Friday was “Red, White and Blue”
day. To add to the excitement of the week, a variety of
competitions were held. The seniors won the virtual
talent show competition. The freshmen won the all-
out selfies competitions, and the juniors won the class
entrance and acts of kindness competitions, which also Nicole Hunt, Amelia Shirley, Addie McGill and
resulted in them winning the overall competition! Madelyn Endris
Brittany (Kehoe) Moran R’12, Lacey Hersman,
Elijah Rutherford and Rachel McGaha Allie Ross R’04 Angie Toner, Katie (Groves) Hibner R’10
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIAL2021 SENIOR ASSIST DAY
Continuing a Roncalli tradition of Senior Assist Day,
faculty and staff submitted descriptions of their jobs to
be assisted by seniors that applied for these positions.
The seniors spent the day performing duties, lessons
and daily tasks of their selected faculty or staff
member. This is a great opportunity for students to
experience what a day in the life of a teacher, principal,
advancement office member, guidance counselor, McKenzie Liegibel and Mrs. Tina Hayes,
cafeteria or maintenance crew member is like. Director of Advancement
Lizzy Lewis-McDonald and Mr. Mark Stratton, Fine Arts Mr. Joey Newton R’03, Choral Director, and
16 Isaiah Hastings
Ms. Denise Joseph, French and Dylan Kedra Mr. Gerard Striby, Hon'09, Theology
Department and Savannah Evans
Grace Sui and Ms. Jennifer Riedford, Spanish Jake Kappes and Mr. Don Elberg, Industrial
Technology and Drafting
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021GARCIA RECEIVES ABE LINCOLN AWARD
Photo (left to right): Chuck Weisenbach R’79, principal, senior Coby Garcia and
Jessica Gattuso, school counselor 17
Roncalli High School senior Coby Garcia was honored, February 25, at a virtual
event of the annual Abe Lincoln Awards by the Kiwanis Club of Indianapolis. He
received the fourth place award, a $5,000 scholarship. The program celebrates students
who have overcome adversity while achieving success. Garcia was one of 16 area high
school seniors who received the Kiwanis Club Abe Lincoln Award.
Garcia’s adversity has led him to want to help other families at a Hope for Tomorrow,
a nonprofit providing support and tutoring to members of the Burmese refugee
community. He is a teacher there and helps young people transition to the United
States. Garcia wants to pursue a career that focuses on medical advancements that can
reduce devastating diseases in developing countries.
“We are so grateful to the Indianapolis Kiwanis Club for their annual Abe Lincoln
Scholarship Program. It is one the most rewarding events of the school year. We are
so proud of Coby! He is a very bright, gifted young man who has a burning passion
to be the best version of himself he can be. He really has a drive for success. Coby is
going to be a powerful, positive, difference maker in the world,” said principal Chuck
Weisenbach R’79.
Jessica Gattuso, school counselor at Roncalli, commented, “I am so proud of Coby
for being awarded the Abe Lincoln Scholarship. Coby is charismatic, hard-working,
and passionate. He exudes an ambition and resilience that comes from a deep desire to
make the most of every opportunity given to him as he strives to positively impact the
world around him. It has been an honor to get to know Coby the last two years and I
have no doubt that Coby is going to be incredibly successful in his life.”
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALALMSGIVING CONCERT
On March 3, the
Beginning Women’s,
Beginning Mixed and
Intermediate Mixed
choirs put on a concert
for this year’s Lenten
Almsgiving Project.
Donations were collected,
and $648 was raised!
Intermediate Mixed Choir
BLOOD AND CANNED FOOD DRIVE
18
Junior Sam Sering donates blood. Ms. Michele Gelaude, Theology, donates blood.
“Thanks so much for your support during our Canned Food Drive
blood and canned food drives. Through your • 3,113 food items donated
generosity, we’ve saved a lot of lives and fed • $29,611 donated
a lot of families,” said Ryan Costello student • 70% of students and staff participated
council moderator. Here are the final stats: • The freshmen class had the highest
participation rate of 75%
Blood Drive
• 40 whole blood units The pantries that will benefit include St.
• 6 double red cell units Vincent de Paul, David Moore Food Pantry,
• Remember that every unit of blood Hunger, Inc., Catholic Charities, and the St.
donated has the potential to save 3 lives. Anthony & Holy Trinity Food Pantry.
That’s 150 lives!
Thanks again for making this year's drives so
successful!
Student council moderator Mr. Ryan Costello collects Ava Nelson and Olivia Jackson bring in
food donations from students before school. student donations.
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021ISSMA GOLD PERFORMERS
Congratulations to our two
ensembles from Advanced Women’s
Chorus who performed for the
Indiana State School Music
Association (ISSMA) solo and
ensemble contest in March. One
ensemble earned a gold rating, and
the other earned a silver rating!
Hayden Bean Ellie Buening
Congratulations also to Savannah
Gilmore, Ali Dafforn, Anita Conn,
and Patrisha Luzietti, who earned
silver ratings on their solos.
And finally, congratulations to the
following students who earned
GOLD ratings on their division 1
solos:
Hayden Bean 19
Ellie Buening
Fletcher Hooten
Ian Knight Fletcher Hooten Ian Knight
Veronica Phillips
Amelia Warner
Great job, singing Royals!
Veronica Phillips Amelia Warner
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALSCHOLASTIC ART AND WRITING COMPETITION AWARDS
Scholastic Art Winners (left to right): Abigail Wulf, Cat Sergi, Emily Och, Audrey Rearick, Elizabeth
Lewis-McDonald
Congratulations to Roncalli High School students whose work
received awards in the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition!
Senior Rachel Hahn received a Gold Key award for her short story
“Family Business” and Silver Key for her flash fiction “Sandcastles.”
Senior Matthew Cabalan was awarded an Honorable Mention
for his short story “Trouvaille.” Junior Madison Wilson received a
Silver Key for her poetry “Stagnancy, Entropy, and Duty.” Freshman
Lily Lewen earned an Honorable Mention for her science fiction
and fantasy “Autumn’s Bard.” Junior Ella McCalip was awarded an
Honorable Mention for her personal essay and memoir “Sublime.”
Gold Key works automatically advance to the national judging with
20 results announced in March.
For their outstanding artwork, sophomore Abigail Wulf and
juniors Cat Sergi and Emily Och received Silver Key awards in the
competition. Receiving the distinction of an Honorable Mention was
"Angst" by Emily Och
the artwork by sophomore Abigail Wulf, juniors Audrey Rearick,
Cat Sergi, Emily Och and senior Elizabeth Lewis-McDonald.
“Creative writing requires both a high level of academic knowledge and the bravery to share a
unique perspective with the world. To have a combination of first-time, repeat, and nationally-
eligible winners in a program with this high level of competition and rigor shows that Roncalli is
building a tradition of excellence in the creative arts,” said English teacher Ryan Costello.
Creative arts instructor Mark Stratton said, “I have a wonderful group of students this year. I
believe my AP class cumulatively has the most talent of any one class I have ever taught. Their
talent is vast and their skill sets are phenomenal.”
Scholastic Writing Winners (left to right): Rachel Hahn, Matthew Cabalan, Madison Wilson, Lily Lewen,
Ella McCalip
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021“A Homily Of Affection, Dear Monolith” by Emily Och ““Lightning In A Bottle” by Audrey Rearick
21
“888” by Cat Sergi ““Melt Into You”” by Cat Sergi
“Standing Tall” by Lizzy Lewis –McDonald “Washing” by Abigail Wulf “Fish Store” by Abigail Wulf
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALKEGERREIS NAMED TO SILVER ANNIVERSARY TEAM
scorer with 1,821 points and currently
ranks second on the all-time scoring
list. She holds eight program records,
including career steals (326), career
3-pointers (158), career free throws
made (585) and most points in a single-
game (44). While at Roncalli, Kegerreis
was a part of teams that won two
regional titles, two sectional titles and
three Indianapolis City Tournament
championships. She played collegiately
at Butler University and Western
Michigan University and scored over
1,000 points in her college career. She is
1996 Senior: "Sarah Hurrle makes a fierce
married with three children. Her sons,
break down the court." Luke and Drew, play in Roncalli’s boys
In early December, Roncalli alumna basketball program.
Sarah (Hurrle) Kegerreis R’96 was Kegerreis is one of seven former
among the 18 women named to the Roncalli girls basketball players to
Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame’s 2021 be honored as a member of a silver
Silver Anniversary Team, based on their anniversary team. She joins Susie
accomplishments as a senior basketball (Kuntz) Corsaro (honored in ’08),
player 25 years ago. Due to COVID-19 Diane (Hoereth) Metz (honored
22 conditions, a date for the 2021 Indiana in’11), Colleen (Jordan) Loberg
Basketball Hall of Fame Women’s (honored in ’13), Kathy (Lauck)
Awards Banquet has not been set. The Schreiber (honored in ’15), Erin
2021 Women’s Silver Anniversary Team (Duncan) Turk (honored in ’15) and
is expected to be honored during that Nikki (Lawrie) Knight (honored in
event. ’19) in the group of honored players.
Kegerreis was a 1996 Indiana All-Star All seven were coached at Roncalli by
and a three-time all-state player. She Indiana Basketball Hall of Famer
finished her career as Roncalli’s leading Bob Kirkhoff.
Sarah Hurrle Kegerreis R'96 with her family.
7th grader Sammie, husband Keith, freshman Drew and sophomore Luke
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021BISCHOFF SELECTED FOR INDIANA ALL-STAR TEAM
Roncalli High School senior Madelyn
Bischoff has been selected as one of 14
players for the 2021 Indy Star Indiana Girls
Basketball All-Star team. Those chosen to the
team will play in three games in June – one
exhibition game against the Indiana Junior
All-Stars, as well as home-and-home contests
against the Kentucky All-Stars.
Bischoff is Roncalli’s sixth girls basketball
Indiana All-Star, joining Diane Hoereth
(1986), Sarah Hurrle (1996), Jenna Hayes
(1999), Bridget Perry (2013) and Lindsey
Corsaro (2016). Bischoff finished her Roncalli
career with 1,532 points, ranking third on
the program’s career scoring list. She owns the
23
program record for most 3-pointers made in a
season (182) and most points in a postseason
game (39). This past season, she averaged
21.4 points per game in helping lead Roncalli
to a 20-5 record and its first girls basketball
sectional title since 2016.
“Our program is completely ecstatic for
Maddie,” said head coach Tim Gray. “This is
a testament to her hard work, time and the
effort she put forth to challenge herself and
improve her game. We also hope this provides
an inspiration to the girls playing in our
program and to those future Roncalli Royals
to set high goals and have the discipline and
work ethic to reach them.”
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALABLOG HIRED AS BOYS LACROSSE COACH
On December 17, AJ Ablog was hired
as the Roncalli’s head boys lacrosse
coach. Ablog takes over after spending
the last five seasons as an assistant coach
at Roncalli, including a stint as the JV
head coach. He replaces Sean Cross,
who started the Roncalli boys lacrosse
program in 2008 and recently stepped
down after 13 seasons as the varsity
head coach.
“I’m excited to begin this new chapter
of Roncalli lacrosse, as I’ve been part
of it for five years now,” said Ablog.
“My goal for the program is to develop worked his way up to attack. He ended
solid Christian young men, perform up as a two-year team captain and one
competitively and create ‘can’t miss’ of the program’s top goal scorers.
events for the community during our
“AJ Ablog has shown great energy and
spring season. Coach Cross laid an
passion for our boys lacrosse program,”
amazing foundation and I’m honored to
said Roncalli athletic director
build on it.”
David Lauck R’94. “He’s been very
24 Ablog is a 2012 Franklin Central High visible on campus and continues to
School graduate and began his lacrosse grow as a coach and a leader.”
career as a walk-on at Taylor University.
Roncalli opens its 14th season of boys
He started as a defensive middle and
lacrosse in late-March.
KITCHENS HIRED AS GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY COACH
August 18 and coached the team to its
seventh semi-state appearance in the
last eight years. Kitchens just concluded
her fourth season with the girls cross
country staff. In addition to her cross
country duties, Kitchens will also serve
as an assistant on the girls track team
and work with the distance runners.
Kitchens graduated from Roncalli
in 2001, running cross country and
track all four years. She was a member
of the 1998 girls cross country team,
which was the first to qualify for the
Roncalli High School announced on semi-state. She earned her bachelor's
December 15, that Cathy Kitchens degree from the University of Dayton
R’01 was named the school’s head girls and teaches in the math department at
cross country coach. Kitchens took Roncalli. She has also served as a long-
over the team on an interim basis on time assistant to the Saint Jude track
and cross country programs.
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021SCHILTEN AND HERSMAN HIRED AS RONCALLI SOCCER COACHES
In January, Roncalli announced that
Maurice Schilten had been hired as the
boys soccer coach and Lacey Hersman
had been hired as the girls soccer coach.
Schilten has spent the previous seven
seasons as Roncalli’s girls head soccer
coach. He won 66 matches and three
sectional titles, including a 3A sectional
title in 2020. His 2020 team posted a
10-7-1 record in addition to winning
the sectional. In 2015, the team won a
program-record 17 matches and won a
sectional title.
“Maurice Schilten has a wealth of
coaching and playing experience,
which will help guide our boys soccer
at Marquette Catholic High School.
program,” said Roncalli athletic director
She left the school as the program’s
David Lauck R’94. “We are excited for
winningest coach and led the team to
him to continue to contribute to our
the best record in program history.
athletic department.” 25
“Lacey Hersman has been a valuable
Hersman takes over the girls soccer
assistant in the girls soccer program
program after serving four seasons as
for the last four seasons,” said Roncalli
an assistant coach in the program. Prior
athletic director David Lauck R’94.
to coming to Roncalli, she spent five
“She is also a very talented teacher in
seasons as the head girls soccer coach
Roncalli’s math department. With her
presence in the building as a teacher,
combined with her coaching experience,
we are excited for her to lead our girls
soccer program.”
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALBOYS SWIMMING &
DIVING REVIEW
Head Varsity Coach:
Curtis Cox R’07
Assistant Varsity Coach:
Allison (Ray) Scott R’12
Allison Collins
Marvin Malone
Despite having less than a dozen of sectional competition, 92 percent
swimmers on its roster, the boys of the team’s races resulted in lifetime
swimming and diving team defended its bests. The team finished the dual/tri
Circle City Conference title and won its meet season with a 4-7 record.
fifth-straight conference crown. The title Matthew Croddy earned the team’s
was won under unique circumstances MVP award. Ethan McGuire was
26 as the Royals were named champions named the team’s mental attitude award
a day after the meet concluded after winner. Freshman Joe Fought won the
a scoring error was discovered. The team’s most improved award. Freshman
quartet of seniors Matthew Croddy, Eli Rutherford earned the team’s spirit
Ethan McGuire, Elijah Buening and award. Matthew Croddy won both the
junior John Hammerschmitt set a new highest attendance award and the Iron
conference record in winning the 200 Athlete award.
Medley Relay. The team finished sixth
in the sectional meet. On the final day
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021GIRLS SWIMMING &
DIVING REVIEW
Head Coach:
Curtis Cox R’07
Assistant Coach:
Allison (Ray) Scott R'12
Allison Collins
Marvin Malone
The girls swimming and diving team senior McKenzie Liegibel and junior
worked in several new swimmers to Madeline Brinker – swam under one
complement a trio of veterans, and by minute in their respective legs of the
the end of the year, came together as a relay.
group. The team finished second in the Maggie Peats earned the team’s MVP
conference and fifth in the sectional, award for the third straight year.
to go along with a 6-7 record in the McKenzie Liegibel was named the 27
dual/tri meet season. Senior Maggie team’s mental attitude award winner.
Peats set a new school record with Freshman Gabbie Sejas won the team’s
1,430.25 career points. A highlight most improved award. Sophomore
of the season was the 400 Freestyle Abbi Bullock earned the team’s spirit
Relay in the sectional final, in what was award. Reese Wiley won the highest
the final race of the season. All four attendance award and Peats earned the
swimmers – Peats, senior Reese Wiley, Iron Athlete award.
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALThe Royals finished the 2020-21 season
BOYS BASKETBALL with an 8-14 record, navigating one
REVIEW of the 40 most-difficult schedules
in the state, with 10 games versus
Head Varsity Coach: teams ranked in the state’s top 64 by
the Sagarin computer. Roncalli faced
Michael Wantz
four teams that won sectional titles –
Assistant Coaches: Covenant Christian, Center Grove,
Beech Grove and Guerin Catholic.
Ian Brown
Out of Roncalli’s 22 games, eight were
Justin Wernke R’02 decided by two possessions (six points
or less).
Senior Anthony Donahue paced
Roncalli with a 13.2 scoring average,
leading the team in scoring for a
second-straight season. He also led
the team in 3-pointers made (38), free
throw percentage (.816) and averaged a Kegerreis all played in every game.
team-high 5.5 rebounds per game. He Leffler led the team with 21 starts.
is only the fourth Royal in the last 15 Donahue was named the team’s MVP
seasons to lead the team in both scoring and Luke Oller earned the team’s
and rebounding. Donahue finished his mental attitude award. Donahue was
career with 792 points, which ranks named honorable mention All-Marion
28 ninth on the program’s career scoring County and honorable mention
chart. Senior Carson Lyngh led the academic all-state. He also earned a spot
team in assists (2.5 per game) and on the All-Circle City Conference team.
steals (1.0 per game). Senior Thomas
Fellmeth led the team in 3-point The Royals’ JV team finished its season
percentage (.435) and sophomore with a 17-3 record and the freshman
Trevor Lauck led the team in field goal team had a 13-6 mark.
percentage (.533). Donahue, Fellmeth,
senior Matthew Babb, junior Aidan
Leffler, Lauck and sophomore Luke
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021GIRLS BASKETBALL
REVIEW
Head Varsity Coach:
Tim Gray
Assistant Varsity Coaches:
Rachel Parker
Circle City Conference
Champions
Sectional Champions
Behind a trio of four-year varsity conference championships and a
players, Roncalli’s girls basketball sectional title.
team won 20 games, a sectional title Bischoff led Roncalli in scoring with a
and a conference championship. The 21.4 points per game average. She’s the
team won its first sectional title in five first player in the program to average
seasons, clinching the crown with a over 20 points per game in five seasons.
44-27 win over Perry Meridian. The Sofie Carr led the team in rebounding
previous evening, the Royals posted an at 5.4 per game and sophomore Sydney
emotional 66-58 win over Ben Davis 29
Horton led the team with 3.2 assists
in the sectional semifinal, defeating per game. Those three players, along
the Giants on their home floor and with sophomore Savanna Bischoff all
beating the program that had knocked started all 25 games.
Roncalli out of the previous two state
tournaments. The Royals went 5-0 in Madelyn Bischoff was named the
conference play to win the program’s team’s MVP and Abbie Carr won the
second-straight Circle City Conference. team’s mental attitude award. Bischoff
Following a regional semifinal loss and Horton were named to the All-
to Mount Vernon, the team finished Marion County and All-Circle City
the season with a 20-5 record, led by Conference teams. Bischoff was named
first-year head coach Tim Gray. It’s the to the Indy Star's second team All-Super
program’s first 20-win season in five Team, which represents the best players
years and the eighth all-time. in metro Indianapolis. Additionally,
Bischoff participated in the Top 60
Senior Madelyn Bischoff finished her workout in the spring, which helps
career with 1,532 points and in third select the Indiana All-Star team.
place on the program’s career scoring
list. She also owns the program career Roncalli played 15 games against teams
record for 3-pointers made with 182. ranked in the state’s top 64 according to
She appeared in 90 varsity games. the Sagarin computer rankings, posting
Seniors Abbie Carr and Sofie Carr a 10-5 record in those games. Three
played in 83 and 84 games, respectively. of Roncalli’s five losses were by three
The trio was a part of 65 wins, two points or less.
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALBOWLING REVIEW
Head Coach:
Mike Glenn
Assistant Coaches:
Paula Tharp
Boys Bowling
The boys bowling team battled through multiple Covid-19 related absences of key
members on the way to a 2-8 record. Junior Daniel Striegel qualified for regional.
Junior Adam Geiger was named the team’s MVP and senior Ben Kanter earned
the team’s mental attitude award.
30
Girls Bowling
The girls bowling team finished with a 7-3 record. The team finished as the runners
up in the South Conference and qualified for the regional as a team. Junior Gracie
Tharp was named to the All-South Conference team. Tharp was named the team’s
MVP, while junior Katie Matthews and senior Callie Clowers shared the team’s
mental attitude award.
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021The gymnastics team posted a 28-14
regular-season record, for its highest
GYMNASTICS REVIEW
win total in over a decade. The team
Head Coach:
was one of two programs, along with
the wrestling program, in Roncalli’s Laurie Hall
athletic department to not have a senior
on its roster. The roster consisted of
Assistant Coaches:
six juniors, two sophomores and three Kelly Gridley
freshmen. For only the second time
Two Regional Qualifiers
in the last eight years, the team had a
meet where every girl stuck the beam. One State Qualifier
The team finished fifth in the sectional,
for its best team finish in three seasons.
For the first time in eight seasons, two to advance to regional. Freshman
gymnasts advanced to regional. Junior Elizabeth Schafer also advanced to
Gabby Conjelko finished third on regional, finishing sixth in the all-
the bars and fifth in the all-around around. The following week, Conjelko
tied for fourth on the bars and sixth
in the all-around to qualify for state
for the second-straight year. She’s the
first Roncalli gymnast to qualify for
state in back-to-back years since Kaitie
Schultheis R’12 and Cassie Schultheis
31
R’12 completed the feat in 2012. At
the state final at Ball State University,
Conjelko finished 22nd in the all-
around.
Gabby Conjelko was named the team’s
MVP and Elizabeth Schafer earned the
team’s mental attitude award.
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALWRESTLING REVIEW
Head Coach:
Wade McClurg
Assistant Coaches:
Bryce Martin
Riley McClurg
Jacob Blackwell R’08
Jake Jones
Circle City Conference
Champions The 2021 Roncalli wrestling team Sophomore Bryce Lowery finished
One Regional Champion navigated a host of challenges, seventh in the state in the 126-pound
including a relative lack of experience class. He kept alive the program’s streak
Two State Qualifiers and Covid-19 protocols, but saw its of having at least one state medalist in
season to completion, with a host of each of the last five seasons. Lowery also
accomplishments along the way. The won sectional, regional, Marion County
team was one of the few programs in and Circle City Conference titles.
Roncalli’s athletic department without Junior Sam Peeples advanced to state
a senior, as the roster was made up of for the first time. He won a conference
32 seven juniors, seven sophomores and title in the 182-pound class.
two freshmen. Junior Zach Wilson won a sectional
The Royals finished the regular season title and a Circle City Conference
with a 15-5 dual meet record and won championship in the 145-pound
its fifth-straight Circle City Conference class. Joining Wilson as a conference
title. In the conference meet, Roncalli champion were juniors Drew Willis
won titles in 10 of the 14 weight (132 pounds), Kody Glithero (138
classes. The Royals finished sixth in the pounds), Andrew Stuck (152 pounds),
Indiana High School Wrestling Coaches sophomores Tin Oo (113 pounds),
Association (IHSWCA) 3A Team State Patrick McGinley (120 pounds) and
Duals. Luke Hansen (160 pounds), as well as
In the postseason, Roncalli finished freshman Braden Getz (106 pounds).
second in the sectional and advanced Bryce Lowery was named the team’s
12 wrestlers to the regional round. The MVP and Sam Peeples won the team’s
following week, Roncalli advanced eight mental attitude award. Zach Wilson,
wrestlers to the semi-state and finished Kody Glithero and Justin Lewis were
fourth in the regional team standings. named Junior Academic All-State by the
Two wrestlers advanced from the IHSWCA and Sam Peeples was named
semi-state to the state finals. honorable mention Academic All-State.
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021ROYALS SIGN COLLEGIATE LETTERS OF INTENT
Congratulations to our senior softball players who have committed to play college softball!
Back row (left to right):
Sofie Carr - St. Xavier University (Chicago, IL)
Chloe Parks - Miami University (Oxford, OH) 33
Dani Gebhart - Indiana University South Bend (South Bend, IN)
Abbie Carr - St. Xavier University (Chicago, IL)
Front row (left to right):
Alivia Dugger - Grace College (Winona Lake, IN)
Gracie Holok - Midway University (Midway, KY)
Kaelin Cash - St. Joseph's University (Philadelphia, PA)
Will Beikes, Volleyball, Wabash College (Crawfordsville, IN)
Sam Gallagher, Track & Field, Trine University (Angola, IN)
Sean Haberthy, Volleyball, King University (Bristol, TN)
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALROYALS SIGN COLLEGIATE LETTERS OF INTENT
Back row (left to right):
Dominic Brown, Baseball, University of Indianapolis (Indianapolis, IN)
Ryan Papandria, Football, Wabash College (Crawfordsville, IN)
Baron Huebler, Football, Marian University (Indianapolis, IN)
Front row (left to right):
Luke Aldrich, Lacrosse, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach, FL)
34 Ariana Gilley, Gymnastics, Ball State University (Muncie, IN)
Owen Volk, Football, Wabash College (Crawfordsville, IN)
Congratulations! We are proud of you!
HONOR YOUR SENIOR WITH A BRICK FOR GRADUATION
Have your graduate permanently etched into Roncalli's Circle of Faith! Order your $125 custom brick by
May 1 to ensure its completion by graduation on May 22. Order two bricks for $200. All proceeds from brick
sales benefit Roncalli's Circle of Faith fund to provide needs-based tuition assistance.
What can I put on the brick?
Your brick can display up to three lines of text, with 16 characters (including spaces and punctuation marks)
per line.
How can I be sure the text on my brick will be correct?
When you order your brick, you will receive an acknowledgment letter that includes a verification of
the engraved text. If something is spelled or listed incorrectly, please contact the
Advancement Office at 317-787-8277 ext. 238 and make corrections within two S
THE SMITH
weeks of receipt.
JANE
TOM AND
How do I order a brick?
Please download an order form from our website, www.roncalli.org/brick or call BLAKE
the Advancement Office at (317) 787-8277, ext 238. JONES
R’19
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021SUMMER CAMPS AT RONCALLI
Junior Royal Theatre 15th Annual Summer Camp
Roncalli High School will again offer many different
athletic camps this summer for students currently in This camp is designed for your child to have a
grades kindergarden through eighth. These camps are hands-on, multi-faceted theatre experience.
conducted by members of the Royal coaching staff and Campers will enjoy making new friends as they
serve to provide fundamental instruction in each sport build performance skills and learn self-confidence,
as well as a wonderful opportunity to have fun in a teamwork, and theatre abilities. Campers will be
friendly, nurturing and safe environment. exposed to many different aspects of theatre such as
drama, voice, dance, and more.
CAMPS for BOYS CAMPS for GIRLS
Basketball Basketball July 5-July 23, 8:30-12:30, Monday-Friday
Cross Country Cross Country The June camp is sold out. 35
Volleyball Volleyball Limited enrollment, on a first come, first serve basis.
Lacrosse Lacrosse There is a $50 non-refundable deposit required at the
Soccer Soccer time of registration.
Baseball Softball https://www.roncalli.org/fine-arts/theatre/junior-royal-
Wrestling Gymnastics theatre-camp
Football Cheerleading
CO-ED CAMPS Academic Camp: Drafting and Woodworking
Golf (Room 018/Annex)
Tennis Get a firsthand look at Roncalli’s award-winning
Swimming drafting program! Students will draw in the drafting
Diving room, build a small project in the Annex, as well
Speed Development as build some simple circuits. This is the first time
Roncalli has offered this camp, so you do not want to
Registration began March 1. We encourage you miss it!
to please register on-line. We communicate camp Instructor: Don Elbreg (Roncalli Engineering teacher)
updates via text and email. Your contact information is Dates: June 14-17
obtained via our on-line registration form. The cost for Time: 9:00-11:00 AM
each camp/on-line registration is $50 per camper/per Grades*: 5th-8th (Attendance Max: 20 students)
session. Information/Online Registration is available Cost: only $20/camper - special rate!
on the Roncalli High School website: www.roncalli. *Grades indicate the grade that the student will be in
org/camps. for the 2021-2022 school year.
Please note: Walk up registration fee - $55 per camp Registration for camp will close on Friday, May 28,
For more information, please call the athletic office at 2021. Please contact Allie Ross at aross@roncalli.
Roncalli High School (317-788-4094 or org to get your students registered.
317-787-8277 ext. 263).
RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIALBRUSTER’S BITS
Forty Years Ago!
ider Voice
Broadway’s Phone Was Busy?
Photo courtesy of The Souths
Gary Armbruster R’81,
Director of Alumni Services
Forty years ago this spring I was sitting around a
Roncalli cafeteria table with my friends during our
lunch mod. We seniors had but one last semester
to go before graduation and some of us wanted to
finish with no regrets or, at least, few regrets. I had
never been involved in any of Roncalli’s theater Betty Stumpf R'81 (Annie Oakley) and
Ben Stallings R'81 (Frank Butler) in the starring roles in
productions but thought that would be a fun
"Annie Get Your Gun."
opportunity so my good friend, Scott Stewart R’81 year and because I played basketball, I couldn’t go
and I auditioned for “Annie Get Your Gun!” We both on the first two. So the week of “Annie Get Your
thought this would be good. Patty Brown C’67, Gun!,” a teacher came out to St. Maur’s Retreat
our wonderful long-time theater department teacher Center (we were the Men from Maur’s) where our
would hide us in the back, we would dance with retreat was and went over my lines each day. On
some girls, sing a few songs, and try not to embarrass the Friday of the show opening, we finished retreat
ourselves. Broadway was in no danger of adopting protocols at Roncalli and then just a few hours later
our thespian talents! I made my stage debut as Buffalo Bill. I wish I could
After only a few weeks, I remember Scott and I were say that it was a great opening, that I remembered
36 becoming more comfortable in our dancing shoes. all my lines and that I was a star. I was NOT a star,
In each scene we were in the back of the stage, out sadly. The curtain went up and the lights hit my face
of harm’s way but still enjoying our anonymity while and I became jelly. Thank goodness my classmate
dancing with our more refined and experienced and theater pro, Betty Stumpf R’81 came out and
theater folk. Then, in one moment it all changed. dragged me arm in arm around the stage helping me
One of the show’s leads, unfortunately, committed get my bearings. She, as Annie Oakley, saved the day
a transgression that, back then, required that he and I eventually got my bearings for the remainder
be dismissed from his star duties. Who would take of the show. It’s funny, I couldn’t remember my first
his place? I am sure it horrified my veteran theater lines that night but forty years later, I can recite
schoolmates, but I remember it as if it happened the entire first scene by memory. Just ask my kids
yesterday. Patty Brown C’67 approached me and because they have heard it a hundred times….just
mentioned that she thought I had the next best not that night. I think I probably got better the next
voice and she asked me if I would like to be Buffalo three productions, but I doubt I got much better.
Bill? I look back on that now and have to wonder, If the Roncalli theater department had a Hall of
how desperate she was to ask me to be Buffalo Bill. Fame, my theater talents wouldn’t warrant a thread
Somehow, I had the courage or insanity, not sure on a banner but, looking back on that experience,
which, to accept her offer, and I became Buffalo Bill! it was one of my best high school memories. I was
We practiced for weeks and weeks, becoming more fortunate to be involved in a lot of things during
and more comfortable with our staging and lines high school. I ran cross country my senior year,
until the week of the opening. The week of the played basketball and was involved in student
show also coincided with my SENIOR RETREAT! council but my one theater experience, way out of
Roncalli only had three retreats during my senior my comfort zone, was such a great memory. I had
UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2021You can also read
