Saint Francis DeSales High School THE MIGHTY PENTeaching the Next GenerationAlumni giving back to the Diocese of ColumbusINSIDE SFDHighlights from 2024-2025including milestone celebrations, academic trailblazers, and meaningful community outreachBACK-TO-BACK STATE CHAMPIONSGenerosity Advances Technology and students benefit!
IN THE MIGHTY PENEDITOR: Kathy BurganCONTRIBUTORS: Dan Garrick, Arius Cook, Michele Moriarty, Tim Jewett, Carolynn Heinmiller, Sarah JacobsSpecial thanks to Tom Snyder, Arius Cook, OHSAA, Justin Tackett, SFD Yearbook Staff, and HR Imaging for their photography contributions.Baccalaureate and Graduation 2025Leaders of the FaithBack-to-Back State ChampsTeaching the Next GenerationEvening of DistinctionMilestone CelebrationsGenerosity in Action26810141820If you enjoy reading the latest news on your phone or tablet, we encourage you to ‘opt in’ to receive an electronic copy of The Mighty Pen. Scan the QR Code below to get started!STUDENT LIFEALUMNIADVANCEMENTLAYOUT/DESIGN/EDITOR: Karen CofojohnYou can find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @sfdstallions!On back cover: Members of the Class of 2025 with their alumni parents: • Christy (Valentine) Baileys ’96, with her daughter, Maria• Steve Barber ’83, with his son Jack• Josh Brader ’95, with his daughter Bella• Jason Conry ’96. with his daughter Emma• Mark ’82 and Jennifer (Kinsey) Crabtree ’90, with their son Dane• Shana (Kelly) Etheridge ’95, with her daughter Olivia• Nick and Angela (Pezzutti) Flynn ’03, with their son Caleb• Amy (Moreno) Haggard ’97, with her son Peter• Dan and Amy (Wilson) Hawkins ’94, with their daughter Lena• Katie (Greene) Holbrooks ’98, with her son Riley• Selene (Martin) Kelley ’94, with her daughter Tiffany• Adam and Courtney (Hatch) Rohrer ’02, with their daughter Skylar• Matt ’93 and Kate (Durbin) Letzelter ’96, with their daughter Hilary • Brad Mager ’90, with his daughter Alyssa• Joshua Mahoney ’97, with his daughter Zaira• Maria (Dalicandro) Ohalek ’99, with her son Joseph• Scott ’94 and Katie (Selby) Preston ’96, with their son Luke• Dan ’97 and Emily (Jacobs) Rizek ’99, with their son Charles• Terry and Teresa (Valentine) Sabo ’95, with their son August• Chris Saggio ’96, with his daughter Kennedy• Joseph Mazzoli ’90, with his son Landon• Pete Sorgini ’93, with his son Thomas• Kelly (Wise) Thomas ’94, with her son Peyton• Roger ’96 and Jennifer (Blackburn) Valentine ’95, with their daughter Marcella• Jacqueline Ward ’03, with her daughter Cambria
Greetings Saint Francis DeSales High School Family, It is with sincere gratitude and great pride that I present to you this edition of The Mighty Pen. Each year, this publication offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect upon and celebrate the accomplishments, faith, and shared purpose that define our school community.Within these pages, you will find a comprehensive review of a remarkable 2024-25 academic year—one that has been marked by achievement, service, and the continued pursuit of excellence rooted in Gospel values. Our Graduation and Baccalaureate ceremonies stand as a culmination of our students’ years of dedication and growth, as they are commissioned to carry forth the mission of Saint Francis DeSales High School into the wider world. The feature on Classroom Lessons to Real-World Impact illustrates how our students continue to apply what is learned within our classrooms to address the needs and challenges of our broader society.Our commitment to forming compassionate leaders is further reflected in the accounts of our continuous community outreach and the growth of our Campus Ministry’s student Core Team (Community Outreach Remains a Cornerstone and Leaders of Faith), which embody our call to serve others in the spirit of Christ. We also take this opportunity to honor the accomplishments of our alumni through the Evening of Excellence, honoring the recipients of our Alumni Awards of Distinction and 2025 Hall of Fame inductees—celebrations that remind us of the enduring impact of a Saint Francis DeSales High School education. Finally, we encourage all our school community to visit our Gratitude Report, which provides a listing of donors who have shown their extraordinary kindness to our school.As we look back on the 2024–2025 school year, may this publication serve as both a record of achievement and a reminder of the grace that continues to guide our community. May we move forward with renewed faith, purpose, and commitment to the mission entrusted to us. Peace and God’s Blessings, Daniel J. Garrick PrincipalLETTER FROM the PRINCIPAL
Baccalaureate Mass and Graduation The Church of the Resurrection warmly welcomed the Class of 2025, along with their families, faculty, and staff, for the Baccalaureate Mass. Presided over by Father Denis Kigozi, the 213 members of the graduating class came together in prayer and worship one final time as students. Following Mass, the annual Alumni Legacy photo was taken, with parents, grandparents, siblings, aunt and uncles smiling proudly alongside their graduate (pictured above).On May 31, the Class of 2025 processed into Alumni Stadium to celebrate their long-awaited Graduation Day. Leading the celebration were members of the Class of 1975, marking their 50th reunion and adding a special layer of joy to the morning’s festivities. Summa Cum Laude speakers Jacob Reash and Sarah Stevenson reflected on cherished memories, and faculty member Mr. Bill Steller shared thoughtful guidance for the graduates as they embark on their next chapter.As the ceremony came to a close, Principal Dan Garrick highlighted the remarkable achievements of this exceptional class—including a record-breaking $41+ million in scholarships and grants, the highest in school history.Summa Cum Laude HonorsStella Abad: University of Michigan, BFA Dance and BS Biochemistry Double MajorGrace Castellano: Southern Methodist University, Biological Sciences on Pre-Health TrackIsaac Friend: The Ohio State University, Mechanical EngineeringAlex Kistler: University of Dayton, Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Aerospace EngineeringHilary Letzelter: The Ohio State University, NursingElla Lynch: The Ohio State University, FinanceRachel Massman: The Ohio State University, Biomedical EngineeringAlumni Legacy PhotoTo view the listing of the colleges/universities members of the Class of 2025 are attending this fall, visit www.sfdstallions.org/class-of-2025. Highlighted at right are the schools and academic pursuits of our students who graduated with Summa Cum Laude honors (cumulative GPA of 4.150 or higher over the course of four years).
Class of 2025 Celebrations “Though today marks the end of our high school journey, I don’t see it as ending. Rather, I see it as the beginning of our next adventure, one in which we will carry the values we learned at DeSales with us wherever we may go. We have learned how to be kind. Loving. Patient. We have learned how to lead with our values, and how to walk in faith, even when the path ahead is uncertain. We have grown not just as students, but as people. As disciples. We have grown into the best versions of ourselves...” ~Excerpt from Sarah Stevenson’s Summa Cum Laude speech“Lord, thank you for blessing us with grit, dedication, and passion.Thank you for the opportunities you have given us,And the ones that are still to come.Thank you, God, for our teachers, who have given us their wisdom, time, and unconditionalsupport throughout our time at DeSales.Thank you for our families, for every early morning, late night, and word of encouragement. We would not be here without them.Heavenly Father, we pray that you bless this ceremony, the Class of 2025, and the paths ahead.Guide us with your peace and purpose, and let us walk forward in grace. ~Excerpt the Invocation given by Sarah Neighbor ’25Class of 1975Summa Cum Laude HonorsColleen Millenbaugh: The Ohio State University, Exploratory Program Sarah Neighbor: Clemson University, BiochemistryStella Newman: United States Merchant Marine Academy, Deck Major Jacob Reash: University of Dayton, Mechanical EngineeringAlex Rush: University of Dayton, Computer EngineeringOlivia Smith: Ohio University, Civil Engineering & Meteorology Double MajorSarah Stevenson: The Ohio State University, Biology on the Pre-Medicine TrackJosie Wesseling: University of Tennessee, Kinesiology on a Pre-Medicine TrackMallory Wolfe: University of Notre Dame, Chinese Language and Culture & Global Affairs Double MajorTHE MIGHTY PEN 3
Anna Schneider ’23Classroom Lessons to Real-World ImpactTEAMSThe St. Francis DeSales inaugural TEAMS (Tests of Engineering Aptitude and Mathematical Skills) competition group travelled to Nashville, TN to compete in the national competition this summer. They interacted with close to 10,000 students involved in the Technology Student Association to compete in over 40 STEM competitions. Founding TEAMS student members Emma Hahn, Cindy Li, Ava Manfresca, and Ben Reither, and TEAMS club advisor, Mrs. Kim Gattis, are excited to take their experiences and grow the program so that even more Stallions interested in STEM and engineering can gain this invaluable experience. NASA-BoundTEAMS member and current senior, Emma Hahn, had another memorable and highly educational experience this summer as she was chosen for the prestigious STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES) high school internship program in collaboration with The University of Texas Center for Space Research and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). While in Austin, Emma worked with NASA experts and university professors, and did a lot of mathematical analysis and research on supersonic planes. Her team (pictured: Emma - bottom row, center), called “X-59: Lowering the Sonic Boom,” took on the task to design, prototype, and analyze a completely original design for a quiet commercial supersonic plane modeled after NASA’s X-59. This team will present at the AGU (American Geophysical Union) National Meeting this month, which Emma has been preparing for in her NASA Independent Study class at SFD with Mrs. Mulligan—doing more mathematical and aerodynamic analysis of their prototype.Congratulations to our 2025 Excellence in Teaching award winners: Mrs. Kim Gattis (Innovation, Engineering and Architecture) and Ms. Val Sharritts (Math).4 THE MIGHTY PENSFD students continuously impress our school community—and beyond—by applying the knowledge and inspiration they gain in the classroom to meaningful experiences outside of it.Hands-on ResearchCurrently a freshman at Clemson University, Sarah Neighbor ’25, held a paid research intern position at the Abigail Wexner Research Institute throughout her senior year at DeSales. During this time, she worked in a lab and continued studying lung diseases and mechanisms as a part of her ongoing research. Sarah highly encourages underclassmen to look into doing an internship while in high school, “Obtaining intern experience is critical because it allows you to gain insight into the professional world and know for sure if your intended major is something you are truly passionate about. It also allows you to form connections that can be meaningful down the road. I have also become more focused and driven in school because I know what to expect in the next couple of years. My aspiration to go into scientific research doesn’t seem so intangible anymore.” Pictured: Sarah’s research won first place in the poster presentation category at Capital University’s Junior Science and Humanities Symposium. Also the TEAMS advisor!
THE MIGHTY PEN 5Community Outreach Remains a CornerstonePaying it ForwardLast April, our Drama Department did some community outreach of their own, hosting a Sing-Along ahead of the Spring Musical, The Little Mermaid. Not only did they provide an afternoon of fun for kids in our community, they also used the proceeds from the event to purchase new stage curtains—a gift for future Stallions to enjoy!Living out the call to be the hands and feet of Jesus comes naturally to our Stallion community, and the 2024–2025 school year was no exception. Annual service projects that many of our alumni took part in as students remain strong, and when new needs arise, SFD steps up with additional outreach initiatives.This page shows just a sampling of the organizations our students support, from the school-wide canned food drive and Mission Warmth clothing drive to club-organized outings and fundraisers. Even academic classes weave serving others in their curriculum, including making Valentine boxes for St. Stephen’s Community House from a Calculus equation!Ski Club—Adaptive Sports Connection at Snow TrailsAutism Awareness Club Trick or TrunkMission Warmth Clothing DriveSVDP Club Eaton Fire FundraiserCalculus Valentine Project Run the Race Club Easter PartyChristmas in the CourtyardCanned Food Drive Empty Bowls
6 THE MIGHTY PENAt St. Francis DeSales High School, a powerful movement of faith and fellowship is growing—one that is led not just by teachers or administrators, but by students themselves. This movement is being driven by the Core Team, a group of dedicated young leaders who are reshaping what it means to live out the Catholic faith in high school.For the 2025–26 school year, the Core Team has selected an impressive 32 members, all of whom are committed to deepening their own relationship with Christ while inviting their peers to do the same. These student leaders are central to Campus Ministry at DeSales, embodying a mission to make faith a natural, joyful, and essential part of student life.Formation & Fellowship: Creating a Culture of MissionEach month, Core Team takes part in Formation, a program that draws inspiration from the “Upper Room” of the Apostles. Like the early disciples waiting for the Holy Spirit, Core Team forms bonds with one another and prepares their hearts to be sent out on mission. They gather as a team to grow spiritually and personally, and listen to talks relating to the Core Team pillars to be Christ-centered, and to have courage, commitment, and conviction.The goal? That these friendships and experiences will embolden them to invite others into faith.“We want the kids to form a tight bond so they can, in turn, cultivate a community of believers who receive and share in the love and joy of Christ through the power of invitation, authentic relationship, and Scripture,” said Assistant Campus Leaders of the Faith: Core Team Inspires a Culture of Catholic MissionMinistry Director, Carolynn Heinmiller. “It’s gratifying to see students immersed in an authentic Catholic community—because that’s what we’re made for. When Christ is at the center of our friendships, joy overflows from them.” The Core Team leads Encounter, and encourages peers to lead retreats, join school-sponsored bible studies, participate in service trips such as the Salesian Gospel Roads, and participate in Mass. They also go to Wednesday morning Mass each week and share in a light breakfast before their school day, a new tradition that emerged after students attended the Salesian Leadership Retreat last October. Through all of these activities, these young disciples are setting the tone for a school that doesn’t just teach the faith but lives it everyday. Faith is a shared journey. From 10 to 75: Building Community through EncounterJust two years ago, an average of 10 students would attend Encounter—then called Oratory Nights. These evenings of Praise and Worship, Adoration, and fellowship were meaningful but modest in attendance. That changed with the birth of the Core Team in the 2024–25 school year.With student leadership at the helm, Encounter became a dynamic and welcoming space. The biggest night drew 75 students, and by the end of the year, 99 students had attended at least one of the six Encounters offered. Whether they came for the student lead praise and worship, adoration, or just the community and food, students found something real—an experience of Christ through authentic Catholic fellowship.A Future Rooted in ChristThe Core Team’s ultimate goal is simple yet profound: that Campus Ministry becomes something every student at DeSales feels a part of—just by being a student. It’s not about being part of a club. It’s about being part of a family rooted in Christ.And with passionate, faithfilled leaders lighting the way, that dream is well on its way to becoming reality.
An investment with guaranteed returnsEducating the mind, body, and spirit of each studentAs an Ohio resident, you can direct your tax dollars to support St. Francis DeSales High School by giving to the Emmaus Road Scholarship Fund Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO).Make a gift TODAY and you can receive a dollar for dollar tax credit equal to the amount of the gift up to $750, or $1500 if married, filing jointly.2025 Giving Stats179 Donors$138,283 directed toward SFDEach new tax year is an opportunity to renew your investment in the future of Catholic Schools—an investment that’s quick and easy to make, and pays lifelong dividends. If you gave to the Emmaus Road Scholarship Fund last year,Thank You!THE MIGHTY PEN 7
8 THE MIGHTY PENBACKIn a season marked by dominance, resilience, and unyielding Stallion spirit, the St. Francis DeSales High School girls lacrosse team toBACKetched their names deeper into Ohio High School sports history. Defending their 2024 title, the Stallions powered through a near-perfect campaign to claim their second consecutive OHSAA Division II State Championship on June 7, 2025, defeating Shaker Heights Hathaway Brown 15-9 in a thrilling final at Historic Crew Stadium. This victory not only solidified DeSales as a powerhouse but also marked the program’s fourth state title in nine years, adding to crowns in 2016, 2019, and 2024.Entering the spring with high expectations, the team kicked off the 2025 season with commanding wins, including 14-3 over Sacred Heart Academy (KY) on March 21 and 16-4 over Cincinnati Turpin the following day. By mid-May, the Stallions held an impressive 15-1 record, earning the top ranking in Division II statewide and positioning themselves as the clear favorites to repeat. Amid a grueling schedule, their lone blemish came from Upper Arlington, the eventual Division I State Runner-Up. But as senior attacker Marcella Valentine noted in a pre-tournament interview, the team’s focus on unity and execution continued to propel them forward.The postseason run was a masterclass in playoff lacrosse. DeSales advanced through the brackets with poise, culminating in a semifinal showdown against Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy on June 4 at Fairmont High School. The Stallions emerged victorious, setting the stage for the championship clash. In the final against Hathaway Brown, a rematch of the previous year’s title game, DeSales faced an early challenge, trailing by a goal midway through the contest. But the Stallions unleashed a devastating 7-0 run to pull away, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive grit. The team’s overall record of 22-1 is a testament to their consistency and preparation under head coach Joe Finotti. Local media outlets, including the Columbus Dispatch, highlighted the Stallions’ ability to withstand pressure with post-game reflections, emphasizing the emotional weight of repeating as champions—”this group refused to lose!” Congratulations to the 2025 team for adding to the program’s storied legacy.Scan the QR Code to see our All-Ohio Athletes, College Commits and more from the 2024-2025 School Year!
The Competition Cheerleading team delivered an electrifying performance to claim the 2025 OASSA Division III Game Day Building State Championship, marking the program’s latest triumph in a storied tradition of excellence. Under the lights at the state championships, the Stallions outshone a competitive field with crowd-engaging energy and unbreakable team spirit.This victory adds to DeSales’ impressive cheer legacy, including a third-place finish in the Traditional Building division at the same event. The Gameday Building team’s win represents the school’s 40th team state title!With a combination of tenacity and skill, the boys wrestling team clinched a hard-fought runner-up finish at the OHSAA Division II State Tournament last March—their second in three years and seventh overall in program history. The team’s success was fueled by standout individual performances, with four wrestlers earning podium spots:• Josh Sheets (120 lbs, Class of 2028): 3rd place• Joel Welch (165 lbs, Class of 2027): 2nd place• Andrew Barford (175 lbs, Class of 2025 - 3x Placer): 2nd place• Lincoln Shulaw (190 lbs, Class of 2025 - 4x Placer): 3rd placeAt the 2025 OHSAA state tournaments, St. Francis DeSales athletes showcased remarkable individual prowess across multiple disciplines: Lindsey Jewett secured 6th place in the Division I girls’ high jump with a clearance of 5-6, tying the school record. Luke DeFrancisco excelled in Division II swimming, claiming 3rd in the 200-yard IM and 2nd in the 100-yard breaststroke, highlighting his versatility and speed at the state finals. Darren Thomas represented the Stallions in boys’ Division I bowling, tying for 29th overall with a three-game series of 644 (189-243-212), following a strong district performance that included a high game of 279. Jacob Reash competed in the Division I boys’ 1600-meter run, finishing 11th with a time of 4:16.40 in a highly competitive field at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.Last fall, Boys Soccer returned to the OHSAA State Tournament Semifinals for the first time since 2017. The Stallions defeated Columbus Academy 5-0 in the Division III District Championship, edged Bishop Watterson 2-1 (PK 4-2) in the Regional Semifinal, and claimed the Regional title with a 2-1 (PK 5-4) win over Chillicothe. They fell 1-0 to Twinsburg in a defensive State Semifinal battle.Boys Cross Country made a strong postseason run, competing in the 2024 OHSAA Division I State Championship meet for the first time in recent years—qualifying with a 4th-place finish at the Regional meet in Pickerington. At the State Championships, at Fortress Obetz, the Stallions placed 13th overall with 311 points in a competitive field of 16 teams.Boys Basketball posted an 18-8 record (6-2 CCL), ranking No. 17 in Division III. Seeded No. 2, they stormed the postseason: 81-53 over Whitehall-Yearling (Round 1), 71-60 vs. Granville (Semis), and a 51-36 District title win over Bishop Watterson. In Regionals, they fell 51-46 in OT to No. 4 Louisville. Regular-season streaks included seven straight wins, and PJ Noles ’25 earned First Team All-Ohio.
Class of 2017: Teaching the Next GenerationEight years ago, the Class of 2017 walked across the stage at St. Francis DeSales High School full of promise and potential. This class has many remarkable alumni, including several who have dedicated their lives to shaping young minds. From elementary classrooms to high school science labs, members of the Class of 2017 are making their mark as educators throughout the Catholic Diocese of Columbus.Amy Feltz and Hannah Shoemaker Mulligan have returned to St. Francis DeSales High School, shaping young minds in the halls where they once studied. Sydney DeCamp (fourth grade) and Maddie Giersz (seventh and eighth grades) are inspiring students at St. James the Less, while Michael Kaylor brings history to life for middle school students at Our Lady of Peace School. Lindsey Klutch is nurturing learning and curiosity in her Kindergarten classroom at St. Andrew, and Hannah Verne guides eager first graders at St. Paul Catholic School. These alumni share a common purpose to educate, mentor, and encourage students, as their own teachers once did for them. Amy Feltz has returned to St. Francis DeSales High School as a teacher and boys volleyball coach, and she has found the experience both nostalgic and inspiring. “It has been wonderful to work alongside former teachers I’ve had and also with former classmates,” she said. Initially studying environmental science, Amy discovered a passion for sharing knowledge. She now teaches Sophomore Biology and Senior Environmental Science at her alma mater. Her goal is to create a positive and supportive environment where students feel seen and capable. “The most rewarding part of being an educator is witnessing the students have positive experiences and grow within the classroom. It is essential to foster an environment where the students can enjoy the process of learning.”Mike Kaylor did not initially plan to become a teacher, but the influence of important mentors and a deep love of history led him to the classroom. “I had a great experience as a student at DeSales. I remember the sense of community that I felt there and how I always felt like I was learning something new in my classes,” he said. Mike now teaches 6th through 8th grade Social Studies and coaches both track and football at Our Lady of Peace. For Mike, returning to the Diocese feels like coming home. He reflects, “It truly feels like God led me back to the diocese in order to enrich students' faith and provide the sense of community that I felt at DeSales.” He hopes to make a lasting impact by helping students find their voice and understand their place in the world.For Hannah Shoemaker Mulligan, science is more than formulas and lab reports. It’s a way of thinking that can open doors for students who might not see themselves as “science people.” She says, “I hope 10 THE MIGHTY PEN
connect-sfdstallions.org Stallions Connect is designed just for you—our alumni! Access exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else, and stay up to date on what fellow alumni are doing through our dedicated alumni feed. Support alumniowned businesses by exploring the business directory, and keep up with all the latest Stallion news. Join today to reconnect with classmates, plan reunions, and rediscover old friends. With over sixty years of rich alumni history, there’s so much to celebrate and share—start sharing your story today on Stallions Connect!STALLIONS CONNECTevery student that walks through my classroom feels seen, loved and welcomed and knows physics can be a space for them.” Hannah teaches AP Calculus Based Physics, AP Algebra Based Physics, and all levels of Physical Science classes at St. Francis DeSales High School, while also leading the girls swim team. Her return to DeSales was no accident. Her mentor Karen Scott, a retired DeSales Physics teacher, reached out when she heard Hannah was considering teaching, and that encouragement made all the difference. Of working alongside former teachers and mentors, Hannah says. “I feel like I’m taken care of here.” Her dual role as educator and coach has helped her see the whole student and she values the chance to help them build character along with skills.From a young age, Hannah Verne knew she was called to teach. “I always knew I wanted to be a teacher,” she shared. Her time at St. Francis DeSales helped bring that dream to life by providing leadership opportunities and a strong sense of community. Now teaching first grade at St. Paul Catholic School in Westerville, Hannah finds joy in the little moments when her students grasp a new concept or grow in confidence. “They won't learn calculus or physics until they can add and subtract, they won't write essays or novels until they learn how to read and write, and they won't be able to navigate the world until they learn how to communicate and work with their peers.” From student to educator in the same diocese, her journey has come back to where it all began. “My goal as a teacher is to help develop the next generation to be individual thinkers that use kindness and empathy to guide them.”Though their stories are unique, each of these educators represents the full circle of Catholic education—students who were once nurtured by a faith-filled community now serving as the next generation of leaders. Their stories remind us that the seeds planted during high school can grow into powerful, lasting vocations. Whether it's helping a first grader learn to read, a middle school student explore history, or a high schooler discover the wonders of science, these alumni from the Class of 2017 are shaping the future one student at a time.The above mentioned Class of 2017 alumni are those we are aware of who are currently serving as educators in the Diocese of Columbus. If you or a fellow classmate from this year are also teaching in the diocese, we’d love to know!A heartfelt thank you to all our alumni educators for generously sharing your time and talents.The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. ~Proverbs 11:25THE MIGHTY PEN 11
The Legacy Continues Naomi HaggardCo-Curricular Activities: Marching Band, Concert Band, Drama Club , Fashion Club, and French ClubCongratulations to the 2025 Alumni Legacy Scholarship winners: Each school year, we award Alumni Legacy Scholarships to incoming freshmen whose parents or grandparents attended St. Francis DeSales High School.Maeve BoamahCo-Curricular Activities: Tennis, Campus Ministry, and Italian ClubTreasured MemoriesGlenda played the guitar for school masses and participated in religious retreats called S.E.A.R.C.H. Her faith is still very strong today and she has shared her love for Christ with Maeve. When asked about DeSales, she said she absolutely loved her teachers: Sister Phillip, Father Marcus, and Father Stluka to name a few. Sister Phillip was her senior English Literature teacher. She loved that class so much that she still has the book. Theology was really her favorite though; Fr. Staluka left a long lasting impression on her. She enjoyed being in his class so much that Fr. Staluka would often give her a pass to get out of her home economics class just so she could sit in his theology class.Pictured: Glenda with Lyn MacMillian and Renee Frebault during their senior yearMaeve with her grandma, Glenda Thibaut Crawford ’71Mason DanielsonCo-Curricular Activities and Service: Football, Baseball, and Italian ClubTreasured MemoriesBrian’s favorite memory from his time at DeSales is playing for a football state title his junior year; Andrea cherishes the friends she made along the way. But their true favorite memory has to be meeting each other in accounting class. Pictured: Brian and Andrea at Junior/Senior Prom 2003 Mason with his mom, Andrea (Ferensen) Danielson ’04, his dad, Brian ’03, and brother, Jackson’27 Treasured MemoriesThe Father-Daughter dance when her dad, Joe Moreno, came out on stage with a few other dads dressed as the Village People is one of Amy’s favorite memory from high school. She noted, “We always had so much fun at those dances.” She also enjoyed her time playing softball (pictured) and running cross country. Naomi with her mom, Amy Moreno Haggard ’9712 THE MIGHTY PEN
Carrying on the SFD Tradition Josie O’ConnellCo-Curricular Activities: Soccer, Lacrosse, Run the Race Club, Mind over Matter Club, Italian Club, and Pickleball Club Henry RizekCo-Curricular Activities: Cross Country, Ski Club, Diving, and TrackTreasured MemoriesJosie comes from a family of DeSales State Champions! Danielle was a part of two state soccer championships—1997 and 1998, and Matt won a soccer state championship in 1997.Josie with her mom, Danielle Slupski O’Connell ’00 and dad, Matt ’98Henry with his mom Emily ’98, his brother Charles ’25, and his dad Dan ’97.Treasured MemoriesDan’s favorite memory from DeSales was having the opportunity to compete on the same Cross Country and Track teams as his brother for a couple years. Emliy loved being a part of so many sports and organizations, including Cross Country, Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Swimming, and Track (which earned her 14 varsity letters!). Dan and Emily are also high school sweethearts (pictured at a high school dance). Alumni Legacy Scholarship recipients were recognized at our Fall Awards assembly in September. Thank you to all who help make this annual scholarship possible!Scan code to learn more about this scholarship.THE MIGHTY PEN 13
2025 Evening of Excellence Sr. Sharon Goodburn RecipientBill Shirk ’79 Given to alumni who have shown their dedication to St. Francis DeSales High School by volunteering their time and efforts to their alma mater.Msgr. James Berendt / Patrick Rossetti RecipientsAndrea Dorgan Pore ’96 and Mike Evans ’72 Given to alumni who have excelled in their professional careers and exemplify the DeSales mission to live a positive, productive life.Forest “Treeze” Sharrock RecipientJim Siebold ’77Given to alumni who are recognized for their dedication to serving the community through special projects and volunteer work, and by setting an example for others.Young Alumni RecipientMaddie McGonigle ’15Given to alumni who have taken the values learned at SFD to serve their community and share their commitment to excellence in all aspects of daily life. Barbara O’Riordan RecipientPam HeilGiven to individuals who did not graduate from DeSales but have given their continued dedication and support to DeSales.Last May, we proudly celebrated the recipients of our Alumni Awards of Distinction and welcomed the 2025 inductees into our Athletic Hall of Fame. Visit Stallions Connect for full bios!www.connect-sfdstallions.orgNominate a classmate for an Award of Distinction or Athletic Hall of Fame on Stallions Connect!
THE MIGHTY PEN 15Celebrating Our AlumniTricia Biancone Sweeney ’87GymnasticsAndy DiSabato ’74WrestlingKristi Eramo O’Connell ’07SwimmingTalisa Kellogg ’05VolleyballKurt Murphy ’96FootballJohn O’Brien ’72Track & Field / Cross Country2025 Athletic Hall of FameSave the date and join us for the 2026 Alumni Awards of Distinction and Athletic Hall of Fame Induction ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026!Visit Stallions Connect for full bios!www.connect-sfdstallions.org
Reunion Time!Class of 1971Class Get-Together!Class of 1990 35th Class ReunionCelebrating your milestone reunion this year? Contact Sarah Evans-Jacobs at [email protected] to help promote your event!16 THE MIGHTY PENClass of 196560th Class Reunion
Check out all the photos from these reunions on Stallion Connect—connect.sfdstallions.orgClass of 198045th Class ReunionClass of 197055th Class ReunionClass of 1972 Class Get-Together!All Class ReunionStallion alumni gathered together at the Abruzzi Club again for the All Class Reunion, enjoying an evening of friendship, Bocce, and memories from their years spent at DeSales. Be on the lookout over the next few months for the 2026 All Class Reunion “Save the Date!”Class of 197550th Class Reunion
Congratulations to these alumni on their recent weddings, too!Cameron (Barber) Speer ’16 and her husband, BenNina (Rupert) Strohm ’16 and her husband, AlexLogan Weithman ’16 and his wife, KaitlynConnor Crotty ’16 and his wife, Mallory1. Grace (Whalen) Conley ’19 and her husband, Ryan Married March 20252. Kyla (Payne) Harrow ’19 and her husband, Gage Married April 20253. Jack Baird ’16 and Brittany (Shook) Baird ’16 Married June 20254. Chris Stoll ‘17 and his wife, MaddieMarried June 20255. Hannah (Shoemaker) Mulligan ’17 and Thomas Mulligan ’17 Married July 20256. Maddie (McGonigle) Shiavo ’15 and her husband, Jordan Married July 2025Let’s Celebrate!Wedding BellsFuture Stallions131451. Caitlin (Moriarty) Harrod ’16, and her husband, welcomed their daughter, Ava, in November 20241. Mary (Utt) Martinez ’17, and her husband welcomed their daughter, Giavanna, in February 20252. Cici D’Amico Rivera ’18 and her husband welcome their son, Francis, in July 20253. Ryan ’17 and Julia (Brown) Corkrean ’16 welcomed their daughter, Scottie in August 20252318 THE MIGHTY PEN61wedding bells42
We asked a few of our alumni what makes it so special to be back at DeSales. Ryan Wiggins ’97: “DeSales has afforded me so many great opportunities in my life. I’ve been around since being a student in the fall of 1993. I’ve met and worked with so many great people and great kids over the years. It is a special place!”Andrea Maccioco Belt ’83: Being back at DeSales has meant that I get to teach alongside some of the other alums that have come back, so former students have now become colleagues. My sons also graduated from DeSales, and having the opportunity to hand them their diplomas was special. We have all shared some of the same traditions and I am grateful for that.Mike McGoldrick ’09: Being part of the St. Francis DeSales community really does feel like being part of a family. I feel incredibly lucky to have the chance to come back home and serve our students each day. Faith, Family, Tradition isn’t just a motto here. It is something you truly live and experience every day at this school! Molly Kubin McMurray ’00:My favorite thing about being back at DeSales is that I get to teach students who are sitting in the same seats that I did as a student! I get to be the teacher they need, like the teachers were for me when I went through, and I can relate to what they are going through because I have literally been there and had to do that!Soon to be Mr. & Mrs.1. Brandon Johnson ’16 and his finance, Annie Engaged May 20252. Cara Jewett ’21 and her finance, MickEngaged May 20251THE MIGHTY PEN 19TJ Appell, 1971 Andrea Maccioco Belt, 1983Ryan Buechner, 2001Karen Baker Cofojohn, 1996Arius Cook, 2013Mike Delfino, 1996Tim Eckert, 1988Amy Feltz, 2017 Kelli Jacoby Fitzpatrick, 2003Dan Garrick, 1979Karen Ciaciura Heil, 1995Sarah Evans Jacobs, 2017 Christina Hayes Johns, 2006Jim Jones, 1989Michael McGoldrick, 2009Molly Kubin McMurray, 2000Beth Cook Mitevski, 1984Kate Adams Reither, 1993Brennan Schlabig, 2012Darrien Scott, 2013Trent Sheumaker, 2006Hannah Shoemaker Mulligan, 2017Nick Slupski, 1987 Ryan Wiggins, 1997Chris Guth Woods, 198725 faculty and staff members are proud SFD alumni! Tradition Never Graduates*During the 2025-26 school year133. Ella Reither ’21 and her fiance, TylerEngaged July 20254. Dominique Capparuccini ’17 and Nathan VanCuyk ’16Engaged July 20252 4
Over the years, St. Francis DeSales High School has been profoundly strengthened by the unwavering generosity of our alumni, parents, and friends. Whether through contributions to The Fund for DeSales, our Annual Giving, support for co-curricular programs, including donations to our Stallion WishBook, or gifts to our scholarship program, those who hold St. Francis DeSales close to their hearts continue to make a lasting impact through their extraordinary kindness.Please take a moment scan the QR code provided to explore our 2024-25 Gratitude Report, highlighting the impactful contributions of our donors made through June 30, 2025. Their gifts have been instrumental in shaping our successes and fulfilling our school priorities.Love and Charity“Love is the perfection of the spirit, and charity is the perfection of love.” ~Saint Francis de SalesYou can be a part of our story as well! Throughout the month of December, we invite you to participate in our Be the Light of DeSales campaign. Visit our school website at www.sfdstallions.org/giving or return the enclosed envelope. Regardless of size, every gift helps build a strong foundation for our students’ futures and allows us to continue offering exceptional Catholic education rooted in the spirit of our patron saint, St. Francis de Sales—to be who you are, and be that well. Thank you for being part of the St. Francis DeSales family and supporting our mission.• Technology infrastructure upgrade, delivering faster internet and better connectivity• New gate at the Stallion Way entrance, providing a more secured campus• Implementation of Centegix, a push button activated emergency system that immediately notifies school and emergency response teams; all faculty and staff have a Centegix badgeDonations during the 2024-25 fiscal year helped fund essential campus improvements, including:With GratitudeGenerosity in Action
Gifts from a Will or Trust(Bequests) Name St. Francis DeSales High School in your will or trust as a beneficiary • You maintain control ofyour assets • Reduces federal estate taxes for heirs• Be recognized • Fund your passion or the SFD EndowmentGifts from Retirement PlansDesignate St. Francis DeSales High School as a beneficiary or leverage an IRA Charitable Rollover• Eliminate income taxes in your lifetime; helps with Required Minimum Distributions• Reduce federal estate taxes for heirs• Be recognized and fund your passion or the SFD EndowmentGifts from Life InsuranceDesignate St. Francis DeSales High School as a beneficiary or donate cash values • Current income tax deductions • Be recognized for your support• Fund your passion or the SFD Endowment Gifts which pay income to youCreative strategies that can create income, protect assets and /or reduce taxes• Charitable Gift Annuities, Deferred CGA, Charitable Remainder Trusts and other options • Consult your financial advisor to best fulfill your needs and support DeSales Saint Francis DeSales High School is deeply grateful to those alumni, parents and friends who have made plans to ensure opportunities for future generations of DeSales students, carrying on the 60 year legacy of Stallions at 4212 Karl Road. With this incredible support, DeSales will continue to Empower Students For Life, with a Catholic Education grounded in FAITH, FAMILY and TRADITION. Members of the 4212 Legacy Society have thoughtfully included Saint Francis DeSales High School in their estate plans through deferred giving arrangements. These arrangements include various types of trusts, insurance gifts, IRA designations and bequests. The 4212 Legacy Society now has 29 members with more than $2,040,750 in bequests to St. Francis DeSales High School. We are blessed to recognize the Charter members in our 2024-25 Gratitude Report. Please visit www.sfdstallions.org/annual-giving and join us in recognizing and thanking these Legacy Society members.To become a Charter Member of the 4212 Legacy Society, inform Tim Jewett, Director of Advancement in writing that you have named Saint Francis DeSales High School as a beneficiary in your financial or estate plans. For more information on how you can join the 4212 Legacy Society, please contact Tim Jewett, at 614-267-7808 ext. 404 or at [email protected]. 4212 Legacy SocietyStallions for GenerationsPlanned Giving with a PurposeTHE MIGHTY PEN 21
St. Francis DeSales High School4212 Karl RoadColumbus, Ohio 43224Alumni parents celebrate with their 2025 graduates! Faith, Family, and Tradition