Alumni Magazine Winter 2021

MOORE

THE MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS & FRIENDS OF BISHOP MOORE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL WINTER 2021

MOORE TOM DOYLE, PRESIDENT ERIKA WIKSTROM, PRINCIPAL

Magazine is published bi-annually What a year this has been. We had one of the most challenging spring
by the Bishop Moore Catholic and falls in Bishop Moore Catholic’s history. Though the obstacles presented
Advancement Office. by the pandemic were daunting, they were not insurmountable. We are proud
of the monumental efforts of each member of our faculty and staff to provide
SARAH LUTER a safe learning environment in which our students were able to thrive. Where
EDITOR do we find our strength? In our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. “I have the
strength for everything through him who empowers me.” Philippians 4:13
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Our facilities team devised intensive cleaning procedures and utilized air
GENEVIEVE FABLE, P’17 filtering systems and plexiglass shields in all classrooms. BMC faculty embraced
CREATIVE DIRECTOR new technologies to provide interactive learning opportunities for virtual and
in-person learners. All of our sports teams had their respective seasons. We
CREATIVE SERVICES COORDINATOR presented a play, a musical, concerts, art shows, and award ceremonies
virtually. Events have been live-streamed so that those who cannot attend in
THOMAS DOYLE, P’09, ‘13 person can still cheer from their homes. We continued to catechize,
PRESIDENT evangelize, and share the good news of Jesus Christ through tools like
Facebook Live and social media.
AMANDA LIVERMORE, P’24
VICE PRESIDENT As we move into a new spring, we are excited about BMC’s future. In April,
we will open the new Moore Center for Excellence. This building will house
MICHAEL MALATESTA ‘71, P’01, ‘03, ‘05, ‘11 our STEM curriculum classes that include courses on genetics, forensic science,
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI and aeronautics. Partnerships with Embry Riddle University, Advent Health, and
UCF will offer our students dual enrollment credit, access to guest lectures, and
MICHAEL GERHART, S’ 89, P’18 hands-on demonstrations. The building will also provide a space for special
CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS events, alumni reunions, and retreats.

JEANY VASQUEZ, P’14 In the fall we hope to return to “normal” but we will not soon forget what this
DATABASE MANAGER pandemic has taught us. Perseverance, creativity, and trust in God’s plan.
We will embrace the silver linings of our time in this pandemic. New words
MONICA COWART, P ‘09, ‘11, ‘13 added to our lexica like hybrid learning, Zoom, and ‘you are on mute’ will not
OFFICE & EVENTS MANAGER be a thing of the past, but perhaps a pathway to our future at BMC.

MIKO JIMENEZ ’18 Our mission of providing academic
VIDEOGRAPER (COVER PHOTOGRAPHER) excellence, spiritual growth, personal
integrity, community involvement, athletic
CONTRIBUTORS: development, and cultural appreciation
JESSICA HUBBARD continues at Bishop Moore Catholic.
ALVIDA GROOM P’20, ‘22
HELEN CHWALISZ
(AND YEARBOOK STAFF)

Address correspondence to:
Bishop Moore Catholic
Advancement Office
3901 Edgewater Drive
Orlando, FL 32804

We regret any errors in the last
magazine. Below are three Legacy
families from the class of 2020.
Also a big congrats to Tommy Groom
for signing to play baseball at USF.

Calvo Davis

Falbo/Strandberg Tommy Groom

Virtus et Scientia

MOORE CENTER UPDATE

A little over a year ago, we broke ground on The Moore Center for Excellence.

It was a beautiful, crisp Florida January day. We kicked off the day with Mass celebrated by Bishop Noonan and a
myriad of priests from around the Diocese. Dignitaries, alumni, faculty, staff, and students were all present for the
occasion. It was a day in which our hopes for this new building were only budding. Now, one year later, with
scheduled completion of the building on track for April, our hopes are becoming realized.
This multi-purpose facility will provide 7 classroom spaces for our new STEM curriculum courses, thanks to the Mel
Martinez family, the Tarantino family, St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Parish, and the 2020 BMC Football Team.
The Andrew Edward McCaw (Mr. and Mrs. Victor Zollo, Jr.) boys’ locker room and The McCaw Family
girls’ locker room will be home to our field sports athletes. In addition to locker rooms, the bottom floor includes, the
4,400 square foot Strength and Conditioning Center, The Dunn Family Athletic Trainers Suite, The Jennings Family
Merchandise Store, The Burrow Family Coaches’ Suite, The Wilding Family Conference Room, and The
Perreault Family Foundation Film Room. Through The Newsome Team Tunnel (Jennifer and Pete Newsome),
our athletes will run onto the field before each game.
On the second floor you will find The Orosz Family Foundation Alumni Reception Hall that will host events,
reunions, and retreats. Adjacent to the event space is The Peg Rose Catering Kitchen (Mr. and Mrs. Waymon
Armstrong). The Bert Family balcony will provide the perfect location for a hot dog and a beer while watching
your favorite BMC sports’ team. Finally, The Skinner Strong Foundation Trophy Wall displays athletic awards from
our past and present athletes.

There are a few more naming and recognition opportunities still available. If interested, please contact
Amanda Livermore: [email protected] or 407-293-7561 ext. 233

GOT TECH?

The first phase of our collaboration with the
Aeras Foundation was a tech drive.

The Areas Foundation and Bishop Moore Catholic partnered
to collect gently used electronic devices for individuals in need
within the community. The response was overwhelming and
BMC and Aeras collected hundreds of devices! But that was
not the end of the partnership!

The next phase of this unique partnership
was to teach BMC students how to refurbish
these devices, wipe them clean, and prep
them so that new software could be added.

Aeras leaders worked with approximately 30 BMC students
and provided hands on instruction that included an interactive
discussion about the three parts of a computer. Students
brainstormed metaphors to describe these three parts and
those metaphors included the parts of a cell and the components
of a gaming system. Students remarked that they were excited
to learn a new skill and that they were contributing to reducing
the carbon footprint by taking a used device, updating it, and
deploying it within the community.

COPING WITH UNCERTAINTY

“This year has brought about many “I love being able to teach kids how to
changes for our students, our faculty manage their own health. Once COVID is
and staff, and our entire Bishop Moore behind us, I would like to teach students
Catholic community.” how to take vital signs, basic first responder
preparedness like CPR and how to use an
These changes have brought uncertainty, which AED, and good nutrition.”
oftentimes leaves us feeling overwhelmed about the
present and the unknown of what the next days or Nurse Emilee’s Typical Morning
weeks will bring. Check-in quarantined students returning to campus
to ensure they don’t have symptoms and update virtual
As an alumna of Bishop Moore Catholic, I feel blessed designation for teachers.
to have the opportunity to give back to a community Administer morning medications to students with chronic
that gave so much to me during my high school health issues.
experience. I am grateful that the Lord has called me If there are new COVID-19 cases, begin communication
back to Bishop Moore Catholic to serve in my role as with Dept. of Health, start contact tracing by pulling
a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. seating charts, and speak to infected student about
close contacts.
I have had the privilege to work with our team of Forward all investigation to Dept. of Health and receive
faculty to implement a Social Emotional Learning confirmation that all is in order. Then notify parents of close
curriculum to help equip our students with the tools contact of students. Set students up for virtual learning.
to recognize their feelings, reach out for support, and
work through difficult topics and situations. I have also Nurse Emilee’s Typical Afternoon
had the opportunity to work with our students to help Squeeze in lunch.
them cope with challenging circumstances and feelings, Follow up email to close contact parents with more
to achieve their goals, and to be the person that God details including date for their student to return to campus.
created them to be. Manage any other health related; allergies, sprains,
bleeding, wound care, mental health techniques
including how to de-escalate a panic attack.

COUNSELOR NURSE

ANGELA BALDWIN ‘11, S’10 EMILEE SMITH

SAFETY IN NUMBERS WELLNESS

30,000 DURING PANDEMIC

FACE MASKS The current COVID-19 pandemic has been a
significant adjustment for everyone worldwide
5,000 and has increased stress levels. Positivity,
GLOVES wellness, and mental health are paramount at
300 this time. Many of our BMC faculty members have
GALLONS OF HAND SANITIZER turned the pandemic into a positive and have started
20,000 wellness habits that they hope to continue beyond
250DISINFECTING WPEIPRESDAY! our social distancing limitations.
HANDHELD THERMOMETERS
Lisa Brogan, math teacher, shared that she walks
3,000 on the treadmill every night while she watches Marvel
DESK SHIELDS movies. Kate Kane is also walking to improve her
health and tries to walk 3 miles each night. Kate says
15 NEW STAFF POSITIONS “it feels amazing to be alive and well! God is good.”

World Languages teacher, Señora Luisa Buck, has
jumped on the virtual bandwagon and has done a
virtual trek from Jacksonville to the Keys.

“With zero routine during the pandemic, I created my
own “schedule” that began with fitness each day.”
Language Arts teacher Laura Tomko shared that she
embraced hot yoga or Pilates and would often end
her day with an afternoon walk for 45 minutes to
“keep my body moving and away from the Netflix.”
I know other people had much bigger goals than
me, but mine were focused on reducing anxiety.”

“I had a baby in June 2020. As soon as we were
home from the hospital, I started taking my son Henry
out for 10-15 minute walks. Now we walk a mile
after school/daycare every night before bedtime.”
Helen Chwalisz, Yearbook Journalism and Digital
Photography teacher.

“I had to stop going to my yoga studio during the
pandemic. We ended up getting an aerial yoga
hammock installed in our house so I could attend classes
virtually and I also discovered a friendly group of outdoor
yoga enthusiasts who I now exercise with weekly.”
Dr. Rachel Luckenbill, Language Arts teacher.

A.P. Marvin Snyder, along with Genna Fable
and Sarah Luter from Advancement, all purchased
a Peloton pre-pandemic. The three, along with
alumna Kelly Bert ‘96, developed an accountability
support group and rode the Peloton at the same time
every M/W/F. The team still rides together and has
almost reached their year mark.

THE DEAN DREAM TEAM

Student Services has been operating under a new structure this year. There are specific deans designated for
lowerclassmen, and a dean for upperclassmen. This gives our deans an opportunity to truly know the students they
work with and build community.

Mrs. Kathleen Kane recognizes the Mr. Claudy Devilien is new to the team. Mr. Tony Mehlich ‘03 echoes the
importance of fostering a supportive “We are pumped and excited for the department’s excitement. “As a former
environment. “Being a teen is not easy. Bishop Moore Catholic Student, I love
I am happy to be here to support them. future of Student Services. connecting with students and sharing
I enjoy partnering with staff and parents I believe the best is stories of campus life, improvements,
to ensure that a student’s experience on the horizon.” and teachers from my time at BMC.”
here is the best it can possibly be!”

What you think about Life is filled with challenges "Do or do not,
you bring about! that I will struggle with; there is not try."
however, my inner voice
Kathleen Kane "Roars" Just Don't Quit! Yoda and Tony Mehlich

Claudy Devilien

Congratulations to KRISTY BELDEN who has transitioned to
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR FOR STUDENT SUCCESS.

Belden will be responsible for student athlete eligibility, FHSAA compliance,
leadership development, student recognitions, academic interventions and
more. She will be developing a comprehensive support program focused on
academic, personal, social, and spiritual growth. Prior to Belden’s tenure as one
of BMC’s Dean of Students, she worked extensively in collegiate athletics for
over fifteen years. She has served as the Director of Player Development for the
UCF Football program, as well as Associate Director of Academic Services for
Student-Athletes at UCF.

Belden was a member of the St. John’s University (NY) track and field team,
where she earned her BA in Psychology. She graduated from Florida State
University with her Masters in Educational-Sport Psychology.

BMC ICON MIKE MALATESTA ‘71

When you think of Bishop learned from her Dad, “Life is much less about your
Moore Catholic, one person actions; and much more about your reactions to
comes to mind - Mike situations. Take a second and breath before you react.”
Malatesta, or Coach Mal Anthony talked about his Dad’s passion for BMC, “It’s
as he is fondly referred to taught me so much about doing something you love.
on campus. Mike’s history Being the AD wasn’t just a job for my dad. It was
with Bishop Moore dates his calling and he went in everyday ready to make
back to the early 70’s when Bishop Moore Athletics the best it could be. He cares
he was a student. He has so much for his school, the students, and the coaches.”
served on staff at BMC as
a teacher, Athletic Director All of Coach Mal’s siblings are BMC alumni too. Mike’s
(18 years), and now as sister Rena ‘75 shared how much she admires her
Director of Alumni Relations. brother and how inspiring it was to see Mike and Karen
raise their kids with such a strong Catholic foundation.
To say that Mike was “married” to Bishop Moore is not She said, “He reached kids, helped them in practical
hyperbole. Mike’s focus has always been developing ways to assist in daily living. That’s what’s important in
athletes for life through sports, rather than just winning life. Making a difference, loving what you do and doing
games. He has often said, don’t send your children what you love. I couldn’t be prouder of him. I know my
to BMC just for sports. Send them for the Catholic mom and dad are smiling down and I know someday
education first and foremost,” shares Mike’s wife Karen. the good Lord is going to say ‘well done my good and
faithful servant.’
Mike’s children, Mike Jr.’01, David ‘03, Sarah ‘05,
and Anthony ‘11, all agreed on many things about their Mike’s Catholic faith is the driving force behind his work.
Dad. Sometimes it was odd to have their Dad on campus “We have always prayed at practices and games. But
during their high school years, but it was outweighed by when we began to incorporate team retreats, it gave kids
getting to share their day with him. a different way to look at their sport. Again, our success
on the field is a bi-product. They truly believe it’s more
Mike’s kids also shared what they learned from him than just about the sport.” Rick Anderson ‘87 (past parent,
over the years. Sarah shared a valuable life lesson she past Hornet Athletic Association President, and current

MALATESTA SIBLINGS 1ST GENERATION 3 GENERATIONS OF HORNETS

Fran Malatesta ’62, Pete Malatesta ’72, Ronnie Kenney ’69, Coach Mal ‘71, Chris, Sarah ’05, David ‘03, Anthony ‘11, Mike Jr. ‘01, Kinnan
Rena Pierpont ’75, Frank Malatesta Jr. ’64, Martha VanZant ‘60 Reagan ‘34, Lucas ‘38, Karen, Benton ‘35, Mike Sr., Graham ‘37, Raimie ‘31, Michael III ‘30

Assistant Football Coach) has been I would be hard-pressed to think
witness to this from many perspectives, of anyone that has given more of
“I’ve really seen Mike’s incredible
passion for Bishop Moore. BMC’s themselves to BMC. Mike's love
commitment to a Catholic, faith-based for Hornet Athletics is unrivaled
education is what makes it so unique and his relentless dedication has
and Mike has been the ultimate established one of the premier
representative of that philosophy with athletic programs in the state.
his oversight of the athletic program.”
Well done Coach Mal!
Tom Austin ‘68, who has won over -Matt Hedrick
1200 games at Methodist University),
says of Mike, “Hiring Mike might have It was nice to have the Bank of Dad
been the best move the school ever when you needed money.
made. He has a love and deep passion for BMC! When -Anthony Malatesta ‘11
his feet hit the ground every morning, he wondered what
he could do to make BMC a better high school and athletic The seasons of our lives
program that day. He always made you feel important and became fall sports, winter
essential to the success of the school. Not to mention that sports, spring sports, and
he is a class act and a hard worker. Although, the way he
loves the place it may not have been work for him.” summer camps.
-Karen Malatesta
Coach Mal is not all about wins and losses. However, we
would be remiss if we did not share the success of BMC I know my mom and dad are smiling
Athletics under his leadership. Look at this chart comparing down and I know someday the good
the entire 67-year BMC Athletics history to Mike’s 18 years Lord is going to say ‘well done my
as AD. Although Coach Mal has been the AD for 28% of good and faithful servant.’
BMC’s existence, Athletics has earned 63% of its sports Rena Malatesta Pierpont ‘75
titles from Districts to National Champions.
Mike always asked, how do we
Mike has transitioned into a new role at BMC as Director show them that we truly care
of Alumni. He is perfectly suited for this position because about them?” He would never
he knows how special the BMC family is. “While at work I take credit but Coach Mal is
was able to grow my faith, share my faith, mentor students, at the top of the list of
and most importantly share time with my own children people responsible for the
during their time at BMC. I was able to teach in the success of our program.
classroom and then direct the athletic programs watching -Tanya Jarvis
young adults grow in the faith and in their athletic abilities.
I want to go to Hornet High
I never felt like it was work.” when I grow up.
-Benton Malatesta ‘35
BMC SPORTS TITLES

NATIONAL

STATE

STATE RUNNER-UP

REGIONAL

DISTRICT

0 50 100 150 200 250
n DISTRICT n COACH MAL

ALUMNI COACHES

One the highlights of Coach Mal’s career has been the amount of Hornets that come back to coach our
teams. Once a Hornet, Always a Hornet! The coaches pictured are also on staff for the 20-21 season.

Back Row L-R: Mike Geelan ‘95, PJ Metz ‘03 · 3rd Row: Anthony Caronia ‘09, Tony Mehlich ‘03
2nd Row: Tom Hage ‘89, Amy Geltz 91 · Front: Mike Malatesta ‘71

Football: Bob Spitulski, Sr. ‘87 · Billy Giovanetti ‘08 Weightlifting - Girls: Mike Geelan ‘95,
Rick Anderson ‘87, Tom Wasman ‘75, John Wasman ‘80 Pauline Callejas ‘14
Winter Guard: PJ Metz ‘03
Volleyball - Girls: Tanya Jarvis Starrett ‘01, Softball: Mike Malatesta ‘71
Pauline Callejas ‘14 Baseball: Tony Mehlich ‘03 · Anthony Caronia ‘09
Colin Valada ‘07 · Bobby Spitulski Jr. ‘17
Cheerleading: Katrina Caronia ‘13 Water Polo - Girls/Boys: Corey Callahan ‘17
Tennis - Girls/Boys: Tom Hage ‘89
Wrestling: Joe McKenna ‘01, Ryan Viollette ‘16 Lacrosse - Girls: Abby Spalding ‘17
Lacrosse - Boys: Conner Branham ‘10
Girls Basketball: David Baety ‘12 Volleyball - Boys: Pauline Callejas ‘14, Alex Uribe ‘14

Boys Soccer: Tom Hage ‘89, Josh Durigan ‘00
Craig Stephens ‘09, Chey Smith ‘09

Girls Soccer: Amy Geltz ‘91

Comp Cheer: Katrina Caronia ‘13

AMY GELTZ ‘91

As a Bishop Moore Hornet, Amy Geltz was
inducted into the Bishop Moore Catholic
Athletic Hall of Fame in 1994 as the
youngest athlete to achieve that honor.

AS A PLAYER AFTER BMC
Amy led the Hornets to 3 district championships, She went on to UCF as a player, and was named
to the 1994 All-Academic Team, first team Atlantic
3 region championships, 1 state runner up, and Sun Conference, and was a member of the Hat
Trick Club.
2 State Championships. She is in the top ten all time scorers at UCF.
On Dec 21, 1990, Amy scored her 178th career She was the assistant women’s coach at the
University of South Florida in 1998-1999.
goal that broke the national scoring record for girls’ She continued playing after college at the semi-pro
level with teams in Tampa Bay, Boston, Maryland,
soccer. Colorado and professionally in Oslo Norway.
She ended up with 205 career goals in 1991. Head coach of the BMC Hornets Girls Soccer team
Amy broke the national single season scoring
For her accomplishments as a player and her current
record with 60 goals in her junior year. duties as the head girls’ soccer coach, this is to
She led her team to an 87-24-6 record during her recognize the previous retirement of the number 10,
worn by Amy Geltz as a Bishop Moore soccer player.
four years. This number will never be worn by another girls’
Amy was named the Orange County Player of the Hornet soccer player.

Year 4 times.
Amy was named to the Class AAA All-State team.
She was a high school All-American.
Amy was in the Sports Illustrated March 1989 issue

Faces in the Crowd.
In 1991 and 1992, she was invited to train with

the US National team.

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY 2021

SPORTS AT BMC

SWIMMING GIRLS BOWLING GIRLS
Varsity Record: 3-2 8-1
Districts 2nd Placed 3rd at District Tournament

SWIMMING BOYS BOWLING BOYS
Varsity Record: 3-2 8-1
Districts 4th Placed 5th at District Tournament

VOLLEYBALL GIRLS FOOTBALL
Varsity Record: 12-5 Varsity Record: 6-3
JV Record: 11-1 JV Record: 3-0
Citrus Tournament Champions Freshman Record: 2-0-1
District Runner-up Regional Semifinal appearance

GOLF GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS
Varsity Record: 4-3 Taylor M. & Paige M. -
District Runner-up NXN Southeast Regional Team
5th at Regionals Paige M. medaled in Districts 3rd,
Regionals 8th, States attendee
GOLF BOYS
Varsity Record: 7-1 CROSS COUNTRY BOYS
JV Record: 3-6 Four 1st place finishes - Citrus League Meets
Citrus League Champions 1st place - Citrus League Championship
District & Regional Champions District Champions
3rd Place at the State Tournament Regional Runner-ups
6th place at States

Charles
R
Football

CHEER STATE CHAMPS

Competitive Cheerleading has been an FHSAA registered sport since 2008. BMC was State runner-up the
inaugural year and State Champions 12 out of the 14 years.

After a season of uncertainty, limited preparation, and tragedy, the Hornet Cheerleaders
did what they do best; overcome!

The team faced Ponte Vedra High School and Durant High School fighting for the 2021 Competitive Cheerleading
State title in the Division 1, Medium All Girl Division. The competition was tough and everyone came out to win.
However, with confidence and determination, the Hornet Cheerleaders took the mat, made sure to close the door,
lock it, and throw away the key. It is our team’s goal, Coach Shanon Lambert says, to close each season “Glorifying
the Lord,” and if a state title comes with it, we will take it. “Count your blessings and your trials cannot defeat you.”
This is the 12th STATE COMPETITIVE CHEERLEADING CHAMPION TITLE for the BMC Competitive Cheerleading
Program and we are proud of this family.

EARLY SIGNING 2020

MATT HEDRICK He hasn’t just influenced
FOOTBALL COACH & LEADER me to be a great football
player, but he’s influenced

me to be a teammate on

Since 2002, Matt Hedrick has been the Head Football As a result of his leading by and off the field.
Coach but he began teaching and coaching at BMC in
1993. He is well respected not only for being the most example style, Hedrick is a Charlie R ‘21
winning coach in the school’s history, and for coaching
the Hornets to the Florida State Championship in 2015, mentor to many of his
but also for his leadership in building an amazing team
culture.  current and former players.

“It is important to me that our players have a positive

experience with BMC football…and playing time is only a

small part of that experience.” Hedrick said.

Coach Hedrick says his leadership style has evolved The BMC football environment is one of inclusion and value.
over the years, but he is a firm believer that his role as “We have 3 core values as a team: Attitude and Effort,
football coach is to lead by example. Above the Line, and 1 Moore for the Glory of God.
Everything we do should revolve around those core values.
Over the last couple years, he has embraced As the leader, I have the responsibility to create the culture
a strategic leadership equation he calls E+R=O, and we have to be intentional every day in order to
Event plus Response equals Outcome. strengthen and protect our mission.”

Hedrick encourages his players to
respond “above the line” in an
intentional and thoughtful way,
“The idea is that we don’t
control the events in our life or
the things that happen to us,
but we do control the way
we choose to respond.
It is important that we
respond in a way that
will result in the
outcome we want.”

Football is a family affair for
the Hedrick family with Matt
coaching both of his boys,
Luke and Heath, this year.
“I chose to coach them
naturally, without a
specific agenda or strategy.
I think I treat them like
all the other players and I
love them for who they are.”

Hedrick was drawn to BMC when he was a high school Caoch Hedrick has many hopes and dreams for the

football player at Mt. Dora High School. Playing the future of BMC football. He is optimistic about the future

BMC team in high school, he identified that the players and is constantly working with the football staff to find

had a toughness and grit and that they played with ways to improve and serve the players. “I am convinced

“discipline and execution and seemed to have pride in that Bishop Moore is where I was called to be. I feel as

their performance,” he recalls. Joining the staff in 1993, though I have never really worked a day in my life. As

Coach has seen many changes over the years. “Like coaches, we understand that the players don’t care how

many programs, we went through several years of much you know, until they know how much you care.”

inconsistency in leadership. We had outstanding men as our Matt Hedrick prays that

head coaches, but for various reasons, we his players know

were not able to establish any how much he

longevity. Thankfully, and the staff
I can confidently
through patience say I would not be where care for He has always put first E
and persistence, I am today, from both a them. molding men of character +
we were able personal and athletic perspective, and integrity over just R
to build a without Matt Hedrick. From my first day in wins and losses. =
program the program, Coach was as honest, open, Ben Duluca ‘16
capable of and caring as you can be. He has been an Currently training for the NFL
repeated
success.” instrumental figure in my life and is someone

I know I can rely on for advice. 2015 will

always be a cherished memory.

Josh Keeler ‘16 “No matter where you
Yale University ‘20 go in life, you can

always lean on your

faith in times of struggle.”

Coach Hedrick

Coach Hedrick is O
a patient, caring
individual who has developed
me both on and off the field
(mainly off). He was the first person I
gave a minute view of the battles I’ve faced throughout
my short tenure at Bishop Moore. He was also the 1st
person I’ve ever told I’d loved them. The thing that I
treasure the most from Coach is when
he described me as a duck. Cool and collected
above the surface, but little do you know those
fins underneath are like pistons who never rest.
Caleb English-McMillan ’18
Marshall Univeristy ‘22

YOUNG ALUMNI

LAUREN ROSTKOWSKI ‘16 · ABBY SPALDING ‘17 · MIKO JIMENEZ ‘18

LAUREN ROSTKOWSKI ‘16
“Returning to work for Morning Star has been a gift. I received
the warmest, most heartfelt welcome when I started as an
assistant, and found myself teaching and learning alongside a
family, rather than coworkers and students. Dr. Abbey creates
an environment that prioritizes both faith and academics, and
this has inspired me to open my heart to Christ and seek
opportunities for personal growth.“

“I’ll be attending the University of Florida College of Medicine
next year in pursuit of specializing in pediatric disabilities.”

ABBY SPALDING ‘17
“Working at St. Charles as a 3rd Grade Teaching Assistant
has been such a fruitful experience! I love working with children
in the classroom, and it also gives me the opportunity to coach
lacrosse at BMC. The BMC lacrosse family has been a gift to
my life for years, so I’m happy to walk with the girls as they
grow as players and people.”

“I graduated from the University of Tampa where I majored in
Psychology and minored in Spanish. I’m currently in graduate
school at UCF studying mental health counseling.”

MIKO JIMENEZ ‘18
“It feels surreal to be back at BMC. I credit the teachers for
helping me to discover my passion for photography and
videography and for giving me the opportunity to contribute to
the larger community. I feel blessed to be able to return and
offer my talents to help the BMC family through this
challenging and unique time.”
Cover Photo: “Setting up the shot required a great deal of
patience to wait out the weather and to compose the scene.
With the help of Sarah Luter, we were able to bring life to
the grotto at dusk by walking through the water and placing
candles close to Mary. The first few shots were not what I had
initially envisioned. I brought out a few spotlights to sculpt the
ambient light. The final result is what I believe to be a beautiful
night scene of our Blessed Virgin Mary.”

THE AWARD-WINNING BAND AND COLOR GUARD

&BLACK GOLD BRIGADE
Mr. James Barker is celebrating his 20th year as Director of Bands at Bishop Moore
Catholic High School! The impact he’s had on so many lives is immeasurable. This
year, our renowned and beloved Band Director will unveil a new band facility!
The new band building, an extension of the Moore Center for Excellence, will open late
this Spring. This building gives the band an opportunity to spread out and rehearse as a
full band, under one roof. Improved storage space will help protect the valuable inventory
of instruments. Plus, the location is perfect! The new facility is at the stadium, and it will
allow ease of access to the field, while also providing rapid shelter in the event of
sudden inclement weather.
Back to Mr. Barker! When he arrived, the band had about 30 members.
Now, the band is up to about 80 participants and it holds the record for the most class
championships at the University Classic FMBC Regionals. In March, they will be part of
the Universal Studios Star Performance Program.
Mr. Barker, thank you for an amazing 20 years. Here’s to 20 more!

After starting the season with Summer Band Camp, they performed the halftime show and supported our Hornets
at four home football games. They marched in the Winter Park Christmas Parade and then the Apopka Christmas
parade the following week. They recorded “Song” for a virtual Christmas Concert and then were asked to perform
live for the school just before the Christmas Break. This semester has been focused on developing individual skills.
They prepared and performed for FBA Solo & Ensemble and received 6 Superior ratings. On March 16th, they
also represented Bishop Moore Catholic at Universal Studios in their Stars Performance Program. While at
Universal Studios, they participated in a Music Workshop and created a movie soundtrack.

THE ART OF TEACHING TH

The pandemic has presented many challenges to our faculty this year. The ways in which they taught
pre-pandemic had to be rethought. Teaching virtually, hybrid, social distancing, constant sanitizing, and all
the other aspects of life as we know it in a 2020 classroom required out of the box thinking. There were
none more equipped to adapt to what was required of them than our performing arts and fine arts teachers.
We asked them to share silver linings and takeaways that they learned from this year.

Helen Chwalisz teaches digital photography
and says that she “learned how to record
demonstrations in Photoshop and save them so
students, both on campus and virtual, can go
back and watch them later. In the past, I would
do demonstrations live during class time, but
going forward, I will definitely record them so
students have easy access to re-watch them.”

Larissa Jour teaches pottery and a win she
encountered during the pandemic was creating
Pottery Kits for all students, in-class and virtual.
“This has allowed everyone the flexibility to
move from school or home without missing
out on the practical application of the course.
The kits contain everything the student needs
to complete the course projects.”

Sarah Purser, Choir Director, shared one
moment during this year that made her proud.
“Watching the final version of our choir student’s
Christmas video made me so proud. The hours
of work that went into finding a way to keep on
collaborating, to keep on creating beauty, even
in the chaos, even when there was no concert
or recognition to punctuate their music-learning
experience, made me realize how important
choir is.”

HE ARTS IN A PANDEMIC

Rachel Meyers teaches 2D and 3D Art and
she believes in the old adage that “less is more.
Creating simpler teacher-led lessons that allow
more time for students to research, plan,
practice and create together and independently
has proved to help them develop their skills in
all phases of the creative process.”

APRIL 28TH - MAY 1ST, 2021
Sarai Goley, Drama teacher, shares that she
successfully incorporated virtual students and
in-class students into productions, plays, and
performances.
Thespians performed “A Christmas Carol” in
December which was then streamed to ticketed
theater goers in the comfort of their own homes.

WHY SEL IS ESSENTIAL FOR STUDENTS

SOCIAL Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is
EMOTIONAL the process through which children and adults
LEARNING acquire the knowledge, attitudes, and skills
they need to: recognize and manage their
emotions, demonstrate caring and concern
for others, establish positive relationships and
make responsible decisions.

THE FIVE CORE SEL COMPETENCIES and the ways in which they are in relationship with others."
Amanda Livermore, Vice President, said. SEL topics
• SELF-AWARENESS which involves understanding ranged from growth mindset, anti-bullying, cultural diversity,
one’s own emotions, personal goals and values. empathy vs sympathy, and career exploration.

• SELF-MANAGEMENT requires skills that facilitate Coach and History teacher Billy Hubbard believes
the ability to regulate one’s own emotions and behaviors. SEL “provides our BMC community a way to interact
with positive healthy role models here on campus. SEL
• SOCIAL AWARENESS involves the ability to provides students ways to strengthen their faith, their
understand, empathize, and feel compassion for relationships with their classmates and how decisions
those with different backgrounds or cultures. made today can affect their future.”

• RELATIONSHIP SKILLS helps students establish Victor Sorrondo, Social Justice teacher said “One of the
and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships, most positive aspects of the SEL program is that it’s given
and to act in accordance with social norms. a number of our students the opportunity to be actively
involved in presenting content that is contemporary,

• RESPONSIBLE DECISION-MAKING involves meaningful, and pertinent to the lives of those within
learning how to make constructive choices about personal our community.”

behavior and social interactions across diverse settings. “From daily interactions and conversations with students,

I've seen how impactful the SEL experience has been for

One of the hallmarks of Catholic education is the them. Perhaps more than anything else, it gets them thinking

intentional development of the whole child. The SEL and talking about important themes that are so key in
curriculum serves this development goal. The benefits of their growth as human persons.” JP Kuhlman, Director of

SEL programs showed improved classroom behavior, an Mission Effectiveness

increased ability to manage

stress and depression, and

better attitudes about Our SEL curriculum is video based. Students watch a 20 minute

themselves, others and school. video that might contain dialogue from BMC students, a panel of
experts, produced videos like TED talks, or faculty testimonies.

At BMC, students participate
in the SEL curriculum weekly
on Wednesdays during an
extended homeroom. We
started the SEL curriculum at
the beginning of the school
year. "I'm so grateful the SEL
program has provided
opportunities for our students
to reflect on their own hearts

CHAPEL RENOVATION

In this Year of St. Joseph, we are excited to announce our St. Joseph Chapel
Renovation Project. We are grateful for the donations we have received thus
far, and invite you to consider joining us in beautifying this sacred space.

Each morning, before the sunrise, Hornets gather for daily Mass in
the St. Joseph’s chapel in Sr. Mary Martha Hall. This has become a
well-practiced habit by students and faculty alike. The chapel also
welcomes students for Worship Wednesday, praying together and
listening to a fellow student’s witness talk. On first Fridays, you’ll find
Jesus there in the Eucharist, with Hornets seeking time throughout their
day to sit in silence with Him. Religion classes utilize the chapel, as
do individual students who are looking for a moment to connect with
Jesus Christ. If you step on campus in the evening or on a weekend,
you’d find the chapel as a beacon of light in the dark pines, you may
also find a sports team or club sharing a time of retreat, growing
together in faith.

Built in 1964 the St. Joseph’s Chapel has served as a spiritual home
for decades of alumni, and first, the Sisters of St. Joseph in their own
convent. It speaks to who we are as a people of Catholic faith, with
Jesus and the Eucharist as the source and summit of our lives. It is
also a beautiful reflection of our faithful history, and a reminder of
those who have walked this path before us.

The architecture will be preserved, as will the Last Supper mosaic,
and the Mexican tile laid by Fr. Leo Hodges and fellow alumni.
To accommodate the needs of our students’ increased use of the
chapel, the space will be renovated to allow for more seating,
beautified with paint, a new ceiling and light fixtures added, and
the addition of stained glass windows reflecting the Stations of the
Cross. Liturgical updates will be made as well, removing the rear-facing
altar, adding a crucifix, and constructing a sacristy for our priests to
prepare for Mass. Repairs are also needed to fix a leaking roof and
to meet current safety codes.

To learn more about the project or to join our campaign, please contact
Amanda Livermore: [email protected] or 407-293-7561 ext. 233

AN ALUMNI CONVERSATION

JOHN TIMMES ‘74

John has a great and somewhat dry sense John Timmes along with select
of humor I have always enjoyed. He is members of the Bishop Moore
curious about so many things, he is a
lifelong learner, and a deep thinker who is Band at the opening of Walt
fascinating to converse with on any number Disney World’s Small World.
of subjects, including the natural world,
wildlife, science, space, scouting, and of
course, theology and faith.
- Sherrie Alderman

I had the privilege of interviewing John
Timmes on his 41 years of teaching at
Bishop Moore Catholic. It is no wonder
that we often hear from current and
past students that Mr. Timmes is their
favorite teacher. Mr. Timmes was
honored in 2020 as the faculty
member of the year for Bishop Moore.
If there was a teacher of the decade,
John Timmes would get my vote.

I hope that one day I can achieve the
holiness of this man. I am very proud and
honored that I count him as my brother, my
voice of reason, my hero, and my friend.
He has left a stamp - an indelible mark - a
seal - on this department that has shaped
the thousands of students he has impacted
that serve their own families, their
communities, and our Church today.
- Cliff Roer

Sarah Luter: You have been teaching educational psychology and technology of the time. We
for nearly 40 years at BMC. What is a have certainly come a long way in addressing the educational
memory that stands out to you? needs of individual students and in the incorporation of
technology as it has advanced. BMC has always
John Timmes: At the end of this school year I will complete attempted to give the students a well-rounded, universal,
my 41st year teaching at BMC. If you include my four experience here not only in the classroom but in extracurricular
years here as a student I have 45 years of memories. activities that meet spiritual, social, and physical needs.
In those 45 years I have been a student, an alumnus, a Second, the word, “Catholic” refers to our faith tradition.
parent of three students, a faculty member, and I married Over the years BMC has endeavored to be the best Catholic
a BMC graduate. There are so many wonderful memories high school experience in the Diocese of Orlando. As such,
from each of those experiences. I would have to say we have tried to give the students and staff the best
though, that the memory that stands out is one that experiences of their faith through Mass, retreats and
incorporates all of the above listed relationships to BMC. prayer. Also, BMC has tried to make sure that it has
In 2006 our son died from injuries received in a car qualified teachers in the Religion Department to make sure
accident. Our family was devastated. One of the major the students have a strong understanding of the Catholic
healing experiences for us was the response of the BMC faith. As the years have progressed, there has been a
community. We received such loving support from our more visual Catholic identity on campus through posted
former classmates, the BMC alumni band members and scripture passages and religious statues.
the student band members at the time, the student body
at large, the BMC parents, and the administration, faculty SL: What are your hopes for the
and staff. The love that was poured out on us was future of BMC?
unbelievable and supported us in our grief. This will
always be the memory that will stand out for me. JT: As for the future of BMC I hope that it continues to grow
in its ability to meet the educational, spiritual, social and
SL: What do you hope your legacy physical needs of the students, faculty, staff and administration.
will be? What do you hope people BMC has always been a special place and I believe that
will say or remember about you? it will continue to be special as long as we are always
open to the Holy Spirit guiding us in our educational mission.
JT: A while back I heard an interview with Paul McCartney. I hope for many years of God’s joy and love being
He was asked how he hopes to be remembered. His realized in all who step foot on this campus.
answer was, “with a smile.” I think that is a wonderful
answer as it can be taken two ways. First, you want SL: What are you looking forward to
people to remember you as a joyful person who always most in retirement?
had a smile for others. Second, you want people to smile
when they think of their encounters with you. I hope that I JT: Being a full-time Grandpa and having more time to do
have had a smile for all the people that I have engaged things with my wife. I also hope to volunteer at my parish
with over these years at BMC and I hope that smile has in whatever ways they can use me. Being able to spend
shared a little of God’s love for them. I also hope that more time with my hobbies of Native American flute,
when all of my former students and colleagues remember leatherwork, and metal detecting will be enjoyable.
me, a smile of joy is brought to their faces. So, with all
due respect to Sir. Paul, I would like to also say that I SL: What will you
hope to be remembered, “with a smile.” miss most about
teaching at BMC?
SL: How have you seen Catholic
education evolve over the years? JT: What will I miss most?
The students! They are why
JT: Well, as a member of the Religion Department I want I fell in love with teaching
to look at this in two different ways, “catholic” and “Catholic”. and why I stayed around
First, the word, “catholic” means universal. Here we are for 41 years.
looking at catholic education as all encompassing. I
believe that BMC has attempted to reach out and meet
the needs of all the students over the years using the

PANDEMIC TRENDS IN DESIGN ARE HERE TO STAY

JILLIAN McCLUSKEY ‘84

this, we are seeing many different environments being
created to work and collaborate. Public spaces are being
retrofitted to add physical distancing.

Pandemic home remodeling is booming; the pool, How will post COVID workspaces change? The density
the home gym, turning nooks into office space, kitchen of the office landscape has changed. People continue
updates. You have to have an inviting Zoom backdrop! to work in staggered days and shifts in the workplace.
As we all adjust to a new normal and begin ushering in Several of our clients are reevaluating their space usage
a new age of post-pandemic design, we turn to BMC and real estate needs. We are also seeing more large
alumna Jillian McCluskey ’84 (Sarah ’22, James ’24), gathering spaces where people can spread out instead
President of Workscapes Inc., for her thoughts about the of cramming around the traditional conference table. The
current and future trends in interior design. employees in the office setting want more of a variety of
spaces to work, meet and collaborate. There is definitely a
Have you had to make any changes to your business need for a variety of spaces to support several workstyles,
model? We allow our employees to work in shifts from like high-top seating. People are exploring ideas like
home two days a week with three days in the office. banquets in lounge areas and more open living room-type
We have positioned ourselves as business consultants in settings to meet and work. And yes, there are many discussions
helping our clients prepare to return to workspaces safely. happening about plastic screens as dividers and air purifiers.
Our marketing efforts have pivoted as we are connecting We are seeing an increase in unassigned work points
more with our clients digitally and making presentations like hoteling stations and unassigned desks to address the
on video. Some still love to come into our beautiful physically needs of companies to lower their real estate costs.
distanced showroom that serves as a wonderful idea center.
What lasting changes from the pandemic do you
Have you seen any trend changes as a result of the think we will see in home or office design? What do
pandemic? Several of our clients are providing the opportunity you see for the future of design? The popularity of the
for their employees to buy ergonomic seating for their home office is on the rise and residential-looking furniture
homes using their corporate discount. Home offices are for the home office, and ergonomics is needed now more
being equipped with ergonomics because people are than ever. Light colors on surfaces not only look clean,
realizing they cannot sit in their dining room chairs and they make spaces appear larger too. More homes will
work comfortably for eight hours or more and that they have home office spaces in the future and in fact, we are
need ergonomic seating, sit stand desks, and monitors. currently working with several home builders to develop
Public spaces are changing with the increased need of home office packages.
flexibility and agility in the workplace and as a result of
What are some tips for balancing function and beauty?
What pieces can you think of that blend the two?
The classics to me are always beautiful. Workscapes carries
the Herman Miller line, which is deeply rooted in Post Modern
design. I like the idea of timeless pieces with high style
because clean lines and timeless design never dates itself.

How would you describe your interior style now?
Has it changed from when you started out? My style
has become more classic and I love the simplicity of good
design. I love a monochromatic scheme with pops of
color in art, pillows and rugs. Color is always your best
accessory. Buy once and buy well when it comes to
purchasing furnishings.

Upon leaving “When I go through tough
BMC, Grace things, I run to God, not
spent 7 years away from God.”
studying at
University of Grace’s life has always had the Catholic faith woven
Florida, pursuing throughout. Her older sister was a role model for her
a degree in and she served as an EM at St. Margaret Mary. When
physical therapy. she became a Hornet, she learned the importance of the
practice of routine prayer, Mass, and having faith as a
During her time at part of her everyday life.
UF, she spent time
with the Catholic Join us in praying for alumna Grace Kupiszewski ‘12,
Gators and got in her journey of discernment.
to know the
Mercedarian
Sisters who were
there on campus.
She felt called to discern life with their order and patiently
awaited God’s call to join. She began her postulancy
in August of 2020.

A JOURNEY OF DISCERNMENT

GRACE KUPISZEWSKI ‘12

Coach Hedrick loves to randomly call
former players in an effort to keep in touch.
Most often, he’ll leave a personal message
that includes a specific memory of
the player when they played football
for BMC. Fortunately, Trey Page ‘16
answered his call and he had a
chance to catch up with the young
man who scored the game winning
touchdown in the 2015 State
Championship game.

Trey went on to Brown University to
play football and study in the Ivy
League. Inspired by his experience in
Mr. Barker’s Electronic Digital Music
class as a BMC junior, Trey chose to
major in Music on a Technology, Composition and Performance Track. He will
graduate from Brown in April and start chasing his dream of becoming a
recording artist and own his own studio one day.

FROM BMC HORNET TO BROWN BEARS

TREY PAGE ‘16

KATIE McDANIEL O’ROURKE ‘01

Do Justice Love Goodness, and Walk Humbly With Your God

For 15 years, alumna Katie McDaniel O’Rourke ‘01, has humbly offered God’s mercy
while fighting for justice. She serves as a Victim Advocate for the Attorney General’s
Office for Statewide Prosecution, focusing on large-scale, organized crime.

Katie spends her days walking with victims of human trafficking, often first meeting
them at the scene of the crime. From here, she provides victims safe housing, finds
them treatment programs to unpack their trauma, educates them on human trafficking
(many don’t even realize they are victims), and walks with them through the criminal
justice process.

“I felt called to walk with people during the most difficult
times in their lives.”

Katie has always known she wanted to help people. The “how” began to take shape at UCF when she sat through a
victims services presentation which inspired her. There, she signed up for an internship to work alongside the police
department on campus.

Most of the victims Katie serves are 14-16 years old, and Katie is reminded of the blessing of family and Catholic
education that she had during those same years. Her teenage years had joyful memories on the dance team at BMC
and had incredible mentors like Ms. Cosetta to stand beside her through the difficult times. Katie is committed to
entering into the dark places with these victims and then walking with them towards the light.

MATTHEW 25:35
For I was hungry and you gave me food

Bishop Moore Catholic joined forces with Catholic Charities of Central
Florida and Second Harvest Food Bank and fed over 250 families in
early December 2020. Alumna Megan Glock ‘17, noticed a post on
the BMC Facebook page announcing food distribution occurring on
campus. Megan had been volunteering with Second Harvest and was
excited to see her alma mater in partnership with them to feed those
struggling to find food in Orlando. She scrolled through the comments
and noticed a woman, Evie, who needed food but wasn’t able to drive
all the way from her home in Winter Garden.

Megan sprung into action and reached out to the school to ask if she
could deliver food to Evie herself. By the time the message was received,
the distribution day was done, but Megan’s spirit was undaunted. She
reached out to Evie on Facebook, got her address, and then drove to
Catholic Charities to pick up food from their food bank. That afternoon,
she happily delivered the food to the very grateful Evie. Thanks, Megan,
for continuing to live Christ’s love!

Two sophomores, How can people get involved? Students can join our
Mia L. and Mia J., club through schoology, code: 4JC7-BVT8-8QZ3X or
reflected back on go see Mr. Kuhlman. If alumni or parents want to get
their time in quarantine involved, donations really help. They can donate through
and thought of how the website and put BMCrafts of Mercy in the designation.
much they missed
serving others. What’s next for BMCrafts of Mercy? The Mias will be
able to hand out the Happy Boxes safely to the residents.
This inspired the creation of the BMCrafts of Mercy This is exciting because we will get to see the project
club which has now grown to over 50 active members. from it’s first idea all the way to the hands of the elderly
Their purpose is to use their talents to help the vulnerable person.
in the Orlando community and perform spiritual works of
mercy within the group. We interviewed co-founders and Our last project for the year is making pillowcases for
co-presidents, Mia L. and Mia J. pediatric patients. We will start that soon.

How did this come about? We missed doing service A year ago, I had no idea this
and wanted to use our artistic gifts to help others. One of would happen…just everything working
us was virtual and one was in person, so we had to get out. There’s no other way this could have
creative about starting it, but we made it work. In October happened unless God’s hand was in it.
of 2020 we got a sponsor, Mr. Kuhlman, and we held We want to say that our club wouldn’t
our first meeting. be possible without God’s help and grace,
and we want to give all our successes
What kinds of projects have you done? Our first project to glorify Him.
was sewing masks. We hand-made over 77 masks and Mia L.
sent them to a community center. Next, we started Happy
Boxes to lift up the elderly who have been isolated and
lonely. It was really exciting because we ended up making
103 boxes and we just found out that’s the exact number
of residents in the retirement home we are working with.

What’s in the Happy Boxes? Handwritten card · Trust in the Lord. That applies
Hand moisturizer · Hand sanitizer · Lip balm · to everything. Thanks to all the
Playing cards · Toothbrushes · Phone holders · students who have donated and
Pens · Puzzle books · Snacks · Mugs · Tea packets · joined us! We had one student,
Hot chocolate packets Jack P., who gave us a gift card
he had worth $120! That made
What if students aren’t artistic? Can they still such a big difference to purchase
participate? Anyone can join and can serve through supplies.
works of mercy. With the masks, those who could sew, Mia J
did. The other students cut fabric and packed the masks.
Some students wanted to learn and we made “How-To” “Never worry about numbers.
videos on YouTube for them! Help one person at a time
and always start with the
Why do you think this club has grown so quickly? person nearest to you.”
Students like doing good things with their friends. We
understand the feeling of isolation from our own quarantine Saint Mother Theresa of Calcutta
and want to help others feel loved and remembered.

What Role does Divine Mercy play in this club?
In addition to performing the corporal works of mercy,
we also pray some of the Divine Mercy chaplet before
meetings. We also pray for the people who are receiving
the crafts. “The Divine Mercy Chaplet is such a powerful
prayer and if more people prayed it, so much would
change.” Mia L.

BMC is proud of our 7
National Merit Finalists.
This is the largest number
of semi-finalists that we
have had in a long time.

Congratulations to:
Front row: Brianna B, Sofia
H-D, Jason T., and William
(Beck) B. on Zoom.
Back row: Enzo B.,
Nathan R., and Jack. L.

The National Merit® Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that
began in 1955. Approximately 1.5 million high school students enter the program each year.

High School students enter the National Merit® Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit
Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) usually as juniors.

Those who score in the top 1% achieve the distinction of National Merit Semifinalist. Most of these students move on
to become National Merit Finalists, with some winning scholarship money for college. Being named a National Merit
Semifinalist is a huge achievement along the path to college.

BEN DeLUCA’16
Focused on Football Now More Than Ever

In the 2016 Sentinel Central Florida Super60 college football prospect rankings,
safety Ben DeLuca’16 was the 50th-ranked player. “He may have been small, but
what he knew as a football player was head and shoulders above everybody else,”
said Coach Hedrick.

After helping Bishop Moore win the Class 5A state title in 2015, DeLuca signed with
UNC Charlotte.

“It was a running joke among our teachers at Bishop Moore,” Hedrick said. “He
made good grades and that was all fine, but he was always on his I-pad watching
film during class…always. Very unique for a kid that age to have such a single-minded
passion and focus about something.”

Sports analysts feel confident that Ben De Luca will be a potential
2021 NFL Draft pick.

INCLUSION IN ACTION
Peers as Partners in Learning

The Peers as Partners in Learning course is a new addition to the Bishop
Moore Catholic 2020-2021 Curriculum Guide. It was developed by the
Florida Inclusive Network and is based on years of data and research. The
strong partnership between BMC and Morning Star Catholic was the perfect
vehicle to implement this program. BMC has an active Best Buddies program
and has always shared facilities and instructors with MSC students.

Having the Peers as Partners in Learning
Program is taking the next step towards
a more inclusive learning environment.

Peers as Partners in Learning is specifically designed to provide academic,
social, and interpersonal benefits to students with and without disabilities
in an inclusive setting. An inclusive setting is one where students with
disabilities learn together in general education classrooms with their
same age peers without disabilities.

Junior and Senior students who wish to enroll in this program must be
recommended and complete an application. Those accepted into the course
participate in a 3-week training session where students learn about inclusion
awareness, providing service, HIPPA and FERPA laws, universal design
for learning, and various learning and teaching strategies. Ultimately, the
intention for BMC students, once trained, is to provide one-on-one support to
an MSC student by accompanying them to a BMC elective class. However,
due to pandemic restrictions, virtual adaptations to the program had to be
made.

For the 2020-2021 school year, 14 BMC students were enrolled in the
program. These students are referred to as the “PIT Crew” (Peer Inclusion
Team). PIT Crew students Zoomed daily with their MSC partners, assisting
them with math, writing, and religion lessons. Several PIT Crew students
also served on BMC’s campus in Algebra, Biology, and Chemistry classes.
Grades for PIT Crew students are based on daily service points, weekly
reflections, and semester assignments.

The hope is to fully implement the Peers as Partners in Learning Program next
year by having students from MSC join students from BMC in-person.

Also on the horizon, is the development of a Unified League. A Unified
League consists of a team sport that includes students with and without
disabilities playing together. Teams compete against each other at the
local, district, and even state levels. BMC and MSC hopes to have Unified
Flag Football, Basketball, and Soccer teams.

Q& For the 2021-2022 school year, BMC has added course pathways to its
AWITH Curriculum Guide. These pathways were developed for students who wish
to focus on a particular field of study. Some of these pathways fall under
MARY GRADY, BIO the STEM umbrella. STEM curriculum, which is based on the idea of
educating students in
sharing the exciting details four specific disciplines
about our Biomedical Pathway including Science,
Technology, Engineering,
and Mathematics, is an
interdisciplinary and
applied approach to
teaching. Rather than
teach the four disciplines
as separate and discrete
subjects, STEM integrates
them into a cohesive
learning paradigm based
on real-world applications.

Q: Does each course in the curriculum build on the preceding course?
A: The beauty of our STEM curriculum is that it is equitable for all students and allows several choices based on their

academic goals. It has an approach of "cornerstone to capstone" where students will have the foundational knowledge
to pursue their course interests and have the opportunity to have our "Mentor/Research Capstone" course in their senior
year, once they have completed three years in this pathway. This course will not be offered next year since the
program will just be starting.

Every student needs to take Biology as a 9th grader, and after that, students are able to select their courses as it fits
their schedules and academic goals. We are offering Forensics that they can take concurrently as 10th graders, or
they are able to take AP Biology. Rising Juniors and Seniors will have several choices based on their interests from
Genetics, Human Anatomy, Physics to more rigorous courses such as AP Chemistry, AP Biology or AP Physics.

Q: Which courses that are part of the Biomedical track are you most excited about?
A: I am excited to have some new courses such as Forensics, Genetics, Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries/First

Aid and AP Physics I. Once Students have followed this pathway, it will be possible for them to be part of a Mentor/
Research Capstone where they will work with corporate partners within our community.

Q: Can you share more about how we will collaborate with our corporate partners?
A: We are very excited to have Orlando Health Physicians teach our new Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries

and First Aid courses!

In addition, there will be a collaboration for a lecture series with UCF Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences and UCF
College of Medicine. We will continue to work with partners within the community for guest speaker opportunities
where medical professionals can share their journey with students.

LECTURE SERIES

TUESDAY, FEB. 23
2:45PM

Dr. Sugaya, Professor,
Neuroscience Division Head

MUSIC & THE BRAIN

THURSDAY, MARCH 18
2:45PM

Dr. Parks, Associate Dean for Research,
Director, Burnett School of
Biomedical Sciences

VIRUSES & VACCINES

TUESDAY, APRIL 13
2:45PM

Dr. Zhang, Asst. Professor of Medicine,
Division of Cancer Research

CANCER BIOLOGY

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE PATHWAY MISSION STATEMENT

BMC's rigorous and relevant Biomedical Science pathway allows students to follow their interests and provides
the necessary skills and knowledge to prepare them for their future academic careers. Fostering a spirit of Inquiry,
the Biomedical Pathway will engage and nurture their curiosity as we bring real world science into the classroom nurturing
a creation of knowledgeable, scientifically literate problem solvers. Biomedical courses allow students to select their
sequence based on their academic goals and future career choices as they study concepts of Biology, Chemistry, Forensic
Science, Genetics, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Physics and Athletic care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries.

ALUMNI UPDATES
What’s happening with our Hornets! Brian Boatright ’15

Justin
Leise ‘04

SERVING OTHERS

Brian Boatright ’15 graduated from University of
South Florida in 2019 and serves as an Orange
County Deputy Sheriff.

Grace Kupiszewski ‘12 graduated from University of
Florida with a degree in Physical Therapy and joined
the Mercedarian Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in
Cleveland, Ohio as a Postulant in August 2020.

Robert Joseph Welch ’12 Graduated from Stonehill Nikki Anne
College on an Army ROTC Scholarship, served in Syria. Ballelos ‘17

Jacob Katsur ’20 graduated from boot camp at EDUCATION UPDATES
Parris Island, SC in December 2020. He is now a
United States Marine! During a break from Infantry Maria Alvaro ‘20 is studying for Phlebotomy
School where he is training to become a machine certification.
gunner, Jake made a visit to BMC to surprise his
sister Grace ‘23. Also pictured Ashley Rollen ‘20 Nikki Anne Ballelos ‘17 was named as a UCF recipient
and Angela Katsur ‘95. of the Order of Pegasus, the university’s most prestigious
student award. She is in the biomedical Sciences,
Nicholas Welch ’16 College of Medicine and Burnett Honors College.

Update Your Information on Mary Fritz ‘11 graduated from Florida Agricultural and
www.BishopMoore.org Mechanical University in 2020 with a law degree (J.D)
and works as a Legal Assistant in Orlando.

Justin Leise ‘04 graduated from University of Central
Florida in 2008 with a degree in Psychology and in 2013
with a Juris Doctorate from Barry University. He is a partner
at Koeller, Nebeker, Carlson & Haluck in Longwood.

Elizabeth Suizzo ‘13 graduated from Villanova University
in 2017 with a Business degree (BBA) and works at
KPMG as an IT Audit & Assurance Senior Associate.

Vincent Venincasa ’08 was inducted into OU Alpha
Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society in Oklahoma City.

Nicholas Welch ’16 Graduated from University of
Florida with a degree in Criminology/Political Science
and currently attends Mercer Law School.

Kara Dooley Olsen ’03

Dr. Cynthia Gabaldon ’89 Thomas Chambers ‘69

MEDICAL FIELDS Joseph Nelson ‘11

Kara Dooley Olsen ’03 and her husband Greg JOB UPDATES
opened HEARTest Yard Congenital Heart Center at
Levine Children’s Hospital. Erica Carothers Partel ’09 is currently head cheerleading
Asha Davis-Leggett ’03 is a registered nurse at coach at St. Joseph Academy in St. Augustine Florida.
Orlando Health. Thomas Chambers ‘69 retired from Sears after 35 years and
Dr. Cynthia Gabaldon ’89 has a Chiropractic returned to his passion for creating wall and free-standing
practice in Baldwin Park, Orlando. sculpture through his company Branching Out Art.
Pamela Myers Crew ’89 is a Speech and Language Isabel Jimenez ’08 Is employed by Osceola County
Pathologist at Lakeland Regional Healthcare. Schools after graduating from UCF undergrad, and Mercer
with a Masters in Education.
Parker Boudreaux ‘16 Elizabeth (Lisa) Garcia Riley ‘88 is a Sales Director at
Cigna Medicare.
Mike Corso ‘88, Bernabel Pineda ‘84 is a Maintenance Manager at
Frank Hernandez ’88, Comanche Peak Nuclear Plant in Texas.
Joe Sharpe ‘88, Parker Boudreaux ‘16 signed to wrestle with WWE.
Andy Matthews, Joseph Nelson ‘11 just recently began working for the
Christy Valillo Matthews ‘88, Tampa Bay Bucs as the social and digital content manager.
Lisa Garcia Riley ‘88, In his position he is focused on telling stories across all the
and two spouses. major social media platforms. He was responsible for
creating the series for the Bucs “Tommy and Gronky”.
He is a lifelong Bucs fan!

MARITAL
BLISS

Kaitlyn Sullivan Micali ‘08 married Caroline Jennings Flight ‘11 Marisa Chanin Nguyen ‘13
Matthew Micali on September 18, 2020. married Keith Flight on married Ty Nguyen on
August 28, 2020. December 19, 2020.
Keri Lee Pierson Schoelen ‘12 married
Christopher Schoelen in December 2020.

FUTURE HORNETS

Everly Holliston Jack Andrew “Drew” Dearman ’08
along with his wife and big
sister Ella, welcomed Abigail
Grace.

Marycait Cowart Runkel ‘13 Alexander Dades ‘04 and Michael Morgan ‘08 and his Grace
husband Brad, and Ashton, Quiara Toro Dades ’09 wife Natasha and big brothers
Adeline welcomed Everly Lynn. welcomed Holliston Alexander. welcome new baby boy Jack.

Ginny Jose Nicklaus Nolan

Lisa and Andy ‘02 Sojourner Jose Nicklaus Toro ‘06 Meghan Moist Franklin ’08 Julie and Drew ‘05 Byrnes
and big brothers welcomed and his wife welcomed Jose and her husband Garret and big brother Andrew
Virgina Meredith. Nicklaus IV. welcomed Nolan Ray. welcomed Grace.

IN MEMORIAM

ALUMNI Ramón Cernuda
Grandfather of Vice President,
Noreen E. Hallock Belanger ‘65 Amanda Livermore,
Sister of Wilbur J. Hallock ‘63 > Great-Grandfather of Isabel L ’24

David Turnquist ‘69

Timothy Brookins ‘81 Peggy Ann Ingram Dailey Noreen Hallock Belanger
Brother of Sean Joseph Brookins ‘78, and Mother of Colin Dailey ‘85 David Turnquist
Maureen Ann Brookins ‘77 Tim Brookins
Ethel Doyle
Dr. Joseph C. Flynn, Jr. ‘74 Mother of President, Thomas Doyle, Joseph C. Flynn, Jr.
Husband of Jeanne Murtha Flynn ‘74, Grandmother of Tara ‘09 and Colleen ‘13 Karen O’Neill Keeler
Father of Joseph C. Flynn, III ‘98, and
Sean M. Flynn ‘06 Henry J. Fortier
Brother of Kathleen Flynn Carnevale ‘69, Father of Henry P. Fortier, Secretary for
Patricia Flynn Durfee ‘71, Marigrace Flynn Education/Superintendent of Catholic
Anderson ‘75, and John P. Flynn ‘77, Schools, Diocese of Orlando
Brother-in-law to Timothy Durfee ‘69,
Uncle of Kelly M. Durfee ‘07, Ryan A. Joseph Giovanelli
Durfee ‘02 and Brady J. Flynn ‘04 Grandfather of Marc M. ‘21

Karen O’Neill Keeler ‘82 Aida Imbesi
Mother of Cathy Imbesi Lotz ‘84 and
Mother-in-Law of Theo Lotz ‘84

FRIENDS OF BMC Ed Milcarsky
Father of Edward Milcarsky ‘77,
Nancy Bloodwell Nancy Milcarsky Basham ‘81
Father-in-law of Judith Olech Milcarsky ‘78
Mother of Matthew Robert Bloodwell ‘87

Philomena Bonnewitz Susan Schoenbaechler
Mother of Peggy Bonnewitz ‘80, Mother-in- Mother of Angela Fetzko Class ‘86 and
Law of Mariann Engelkes Bonnewitz ‘77 Maria Schoenbaechler‘97

James B. Byrne Rita Marie Rivard Syvertson
Father of Margaret Byrne Basset ‘83, Mother of James Syvertson ‘84
Katherine A. Byrne ‘85, and Elizabeth

Byrne Moricle ‘86, Grandfather of Grace
Moricle ‘18, John M. ‘21 and Hollis M. ‘24 Jeanne Tauscher

Mother of Heidi Tauscher ‘78,

Andrew Caneza Katrina Tauscher Piumelli ‘83, Jon Tauscher ‘86

Grandfather of Jennifer Caneza Black ‘82,
Tory Whitson Lee ‘94, and Andrew Caneza ‘97 Richard Veltre

Grandfather of Alessandra Fable ‘17

Anthony Cebula Teddy Yates Sr.
Grandfather of Luis Santillan-Perez ’18 and Grandfather of Elena Yates’19 >
Laysha Santillan-Perez ’20

BISHOP MOORE CATHOLIC

3901 Edgewater Drive | Orlando, FL 32804

407.293.7561 | www.bishopmoore.org

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