Congratulations, Class of 2023! Graduation Recap
Molloy would like to congratulate the 333 graduates of our Class of 2023! On Sunday, June 4th, seniors participated in Commencement Exercises at St. John’s University’s Carnesecca Arena. Friends, family, faculty, and staff applauded as Stanners accepted their diplomas and moved their tassels from right to left, signifying the end of their high school journey.
During the ceremony, Valedictorian Nancy Sun Zilz ’23 and Salutatorian Stutee Oke ‘23 each delivered speeches reflecting on their time at Molloy while providing hope for the future, as well as thanking their friends and family for their love and support. Stutee shared that she experienced growth through Science Research with Ms. Mallia and Peer Groups with Br. Eugene. She encouraged the Class of 2023 to not let their friendships fade as they head off to different schools, because “true friendships only need a place to start, and a time to grow.” Nancy acknowledged the resilience of the Class of 2023, who overcame the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and online learning during their high school careers. She thanked her teachers and counselors for nurturing and guiding her, and helping her to feel seen. In turn, Nancy encouraged her classmates to “be the person that makes others feel special and not alone.” She also gave a special shoutout to Br. Eugene, calling attention to the Marist values he embodies and which the Class of 2023 should continue to embrace throughout their lives: a strong sense of community and commitment to service.
A number of Stanners were presented with special awards during the ceremony. Grace Murphy ‘23 (pictured above left) was the inaugural recipient of the new Brother Leo Richard Pillar Award, presented to a student who has embraced, upheld, and lived the pillars of Molloy’s Marist educational mission! The Louis E. Willett Award was awarded to Tarik Lajoie ‘23 (pictured second from left), in recognition of his regard for and assistance to others, befitting of the memory of PFC Willett, who gave his life while serving our country. The Br. Angus Wilkinson Alumni Medal was awarded to Hailey Ramzan ’23 (pictured third from left), in recognition of her outstanding character, leadership, school spirit, and academic record over four years. Congratulations to Grace, Tarik, Hailey, and all of this year’s award winners. During the ceremony, Molloy also congratulated Mr. Donald Mooney on his retirement (pictured above right). Mr. Mooney, who taught religion at Molloy for the past 15 years, received a standing ovation from all in attendance.
We invite the Molloy community to click the button below to view the full Graduation photo gallery on our Flickr page. (Graduation photos by @dannyphamphotography)
Class of 2023 & Parents: Your Beehive Subscription
Class of 2023: Now that you have graduated, your school emails will become inactive over the summer. As a result, you will begin receiving The Beehive newsletter at your personal email address, which you provided to the Stanner Alumni Center earlier this year. We hope you will continue to enjoy reading up on all things Molloy! You can also change your subscription status using the links at the bottom of our emails.
Parents of Class of 2023: Now that the Class of 2023 is moving on to college, your parent emails will no longer be automatically opted-in to receiving The Beehive after this issue. If you would like to continue receiving our newsletter moving forward, you can subscribe using the form at www.molloyhs.org/getbeehive/
Questions? Contact us at communications@molloyhs.org.
More Senior Events & Photos
In addition to Commencement Exercises, seniors participated in several other events this month. On June 1st, members of the senior class were recognized for academic excellence and dedication to extracurriculars during the Senior Awards ceremony. Also on June 1st, the Class of 2023 and their families gathered at St. Nicholas of Tolentine R.C. Church to celebrate Mass one last time as a class. Finally, on June 5th, the Class of 2023 returned to Molloy in celebration of the Graduation BBQ. During the BBQ, our graduates spent time together, signed yearbooks, won raffle prizes, played games, and made more lasting memories. We invite our graduates and their families to view photos from these events by clicking the button below and visiting our Flickr page. Congratulations, Class of 2023!
Stanner Golf Classic Photos Now Available
We invite our alumni and friends to view photos from the 37th Annual Jim Kinnier Stanner Golf Classic, which took place earlier this spring. This year’s outing welcomed over 300 golfers and tennis players and was hosted at four private golf courses on Long Island. Once again we extend our sincerest thanks to everyone who made this year’s outing a success!
Click the buttons below to access the photo gallery for each course. Photos are downloadable via the options provided when viewing each picture. Special thanks to our photographers: John Tanico Photography, Frank Bailey ’75, Vicky Higuera, Jonathan DiDonato ’01, and Laura Angotta ’07.
Pierre Toussaint – Mother Cabrini Scholars Program
Molloy is proud to congratulate Thomas Dibello ‘23, Alain Dorestant ‘23, Timileyin Faba ‘23, Sophie Navarrete ‘23, and Abeni Tucker ‘23, who have been accepted into the new Pierre Toussaint – Mother Cabrini (PT-MC) Scholars Program. The program accepts students based on strong academic record, active participation within their faith and school communities, and their demonstration of good character and sound leadership ability. All scholars must intend to study something related to healthcare or social work, and all will receive mentorship and advisement. The award is renewable for consecutive years of college study.
The PT-MC Scholars Program accepts a small number of applicants that exhibit leadership skills as well as a dedication to service and faith. The PT-MC program is new, stemming from the Venerable Pierre Toussaint Scholarship Fund that provides scholarships to gifted high school seniors from various schools and parishes throughout the Archdiocese of New York and the Diocese of Brooklyn-Queens. Principal Dr. Darius Penikas proudly exclaims, “On behalf of everyone at Molloy, I want to congratulate our students who earned the Pierre Toussaint Mother Cabrini Scholarship! We are honored to be associated with this wonderful program and proud to have this first class of students participate. It is a truly exciting time for these exceptional students.” College Guidance Counselor Mr. Gus Esgro adds, “I am confident that these students will not only serve as fantastic representatives of Molloy during their time in the program, but will also help shape and direct the growth of this new initiative in a positive way in the years to come.”
Sophie, one of the scholarship recipients, shares, “I’m ecstatic to be a part of such a wonderful and enthusiastic program like this one because it will allow me to further emerge myself in the healthcare field. It will also help me be a woman for others, as God wants us to help one another.”
News From Campus Ministry
Earlier in June, Principal Dr. Penikus assisted Campus Ministry in distributing United Nations Service Awards to Stanners who have worked to make the world a better place by serving others in our community. In their work this year they have made others feel seen, known, and loved.
Over Memorial Day weekend, students and faculty participated in the Marist Youth Gathering, an international gathering of Marist students and educators. The theme of the gathering was Shine Like the Son! Dr. Penikus and Br. Luis Ramos both delivered Keynote addresses, while Ms. Wilson and Mr. Corrado led two workshops. Our students made connections in the wider Marist world, realized a bit more what our Marist mission is all about, and had a great time!
Stanner Sports Updates
Congratulations to Eva Gonzalez ’24, who ran the 400M with a time in a time of 56.99! In addition to this being a new Molloy record, this time placed Eva fifth at the NY State Federation Championships.
Congratulations to Camille Munoz ’25, who recently won the Eastern States Championship in both the High Jump at 5’1″ and the 400 Meter Hurdles, setting a new school record of 64.75 seconds! Camille also recently set Molloy’s Pentathlon record with 2790 points at the NY State Federation Championships.
Educational Adventures Offer Lifetime Memories
Every year, Ms. Dorothy DeNoto leads a group of chaperones and students on an educational adventure abroad. This school year, the trip was entitled Rhapsody in Central Europe, with stops in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Munich, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague!
Taking place over Easter Break, 46 Stanners and six faculty members attended the Rhapsody in Central Europe trip that was supposed to take place in the spring of 2020. The trip sold out then, and sold out again this year! Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors are all eligible to participate in the adventure abroad, which offers a once-in-a-lifetime tour that includes authentic meals, fun activities, and moments of reflection. Each trip incorporates lessons in the Marist Charism or embodying our faith, all with a unique, cultural spin.
This year’s trip was designed by Ms. DeNoto and run by Passports, a travel company that specializes in educational group travel. It began in Germany, where students saw the towns and cities of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbuhl, and Munich. Excursions included the Christmas Museum, the Nymphenburg Palace and Gardens, and zip lining over the Olympic Stadium! The group moved on to Austria, visiting the cities of Salzburg and Vienna. There, students and chaperones alike took part in Viennese Waltz Lessons, followed by a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Before making their way to Hungary, group members stopped to sightsee in Bratislava, Slovakia. Activities in Budapest included a river cruise, strudel making, and a visit to the Palace Courtyards and Matthias Church. Stanners spent the end of the trip in the Czech Republic, sightseeing in the city of Brno, then moving on to Prague. Included in this part of the adventure was a visit to Prague Castle and a performance at a black light theater. Ms. DeNoto shares, “Every student participates in every activity. The trip is a launch pad for future travel, opening their eyes to different cultures, people, and new experiences.”
Graybeards Family Run Supporting Rockaway
- Date: Friday, July 28, 2023
- Times: See entry form below for full schedule
- Contacts: pfgoldberg@gmail.com | ckatinas@molloyhs.org | fgambino@molloyhs.org
Calling all Molloy runners! The Stanner Alumni Center will be participating in a road race in support of the Rockaway community. The Graybeards Family Run begins and ends at St. Francis De Sales. There is a kids run, a one-mile run, and a 5K. There will be refreshments, awards, raffles, and entertainment after the race. There is also the possibility that the after-after party could be moved to a local pub.
If you are interested in supporting the run, please click the button below to download the entry form. Any questions regarding the race can be directed to Pat Goldberg ’13 at pfgoldberg@gmail.com. If you plan on attending the race, please email either Craig Katinas ’93 at ckatinas@molloyhs.org or Frank Gambino ’74 at fgambino@molloyhs.org. Please note: parking is free on Rockaway Streets on Friday until midnight. Look out for more information about future community runs!
Holy Land Pilgrimage – Respond Soon If Interested!
“Walking in Christ’s Footsteps” February 16th – 25th, 2024 (Departing from NYC) | Custom designed Adventure for Adults Ages 21+ by Dorothy DeNoto, Educational Travel Coordinator
Having the opportunity to go to the Holy Land and walk in Jesus’s footsteps is sacred. To have the opportunity to go with people from communities you know is priceless. Won’t you join us on this unique trip of a lifetime?
The itinerary includes religious sites of significance from before Christ, in addition to sites connected to different religions, including sites where Jesus walked, lived, and taught. Activities include riding in a boat on the waters of the Sea of Galilee, floating on the Dead Sea, and visiting the site of the Wedding of Cana. Time for Spiritual Direction, communal mass, and reflection will be available to all.
Register before 7/4/23 for a $300 discount, bringing the total cost to $5,094. This includes double rooming, economy airfare from NYC, and tip fee for the local tour director and the coach bus driver. All breakfasts and dinners are included. (*Note: The single room supplement fee is less than $700.00 total) For a PDF of the full itinerary and to enroll online, visit www.passports.com and enter Tour ID DDENOTO2024-5 …. Click on Enroll to set up an account and enroll. You can also download more information by clicking the buttons below.
From Ms. DeNoto: “I am excited to offer this trip at such an amazing price. I have been working with Passports Educational Tour Company for over ten years. They go out of their way to ensure that these adventures are top notch! I am hopeful that this trip will be life-changing considering the holy footsteps that we will be following!” Contact Dorothy DeNoto at ddenoto@molloyhs.org for more info.
Alumni Athletes & Coach Achieve Stellar Seasons
Congratulations to three Stanner college athletes and one coach on achieving stellar seasons! Bayram Hot ’22, a third baseman at Marist College, has been named MAAC Rookie of the Year (click for more info). Kelsey Carr ’20, who plays Softball at Seton Hall, has been named to the All-Region First Team. Earlier this year, Kelsey was named BIG EAST Pitcher of the Year and was a unanimous First Team All-BIG EAST selection (click for more info). KC DeSarno ’22, who plays softball at Colby College, has been recognized as an Easton/NFCA All-America Scholar Athlete! KC received this recognition for achieving a 3.5 or better GPA. Nick Derba ’03 has been named America East Coach of the Year. Nick is the outsanding head baseball coach at the University of Maine (click for more info).
Photos courtesy of Marist College, Seton Hall University, Colby College, and University of Maine.
Congratulations to Br. Stephen Bosco Wang (75 year Marist anniversary) and Br. Roy George (60 year Marist anniversary), two of this year’s Marist Jubilarians! Br. Stephen and Br. Roy recently celebrated their jubilees with Bishop Robert Brennan, Bishop of Brooklyn, at the Immaculate Conception Center in Douglaston, NY.
Stanners on the links! Hall of Famer and Golf Board Member, Jerry Schumm ’68, and Craig Katinas ’93, Executive Director of Development at Molloy, were the 2023 2-Day Member Guest Flight Winners at Wykagyl Country Club last weekend. It was a great event for the Stanners!
Thank you to three members of the Class of 1979 who recently visited Molloy and spent time chatting with President Richard Karsten ’81! Pictured with Richard are Manny Velez ’79, Michael Crane ’79, and Thomas Brady ’79.
Congratulations to Paul C. Hickey ’64, who was recently appointed to the Senior Intelligence Advisory Board (SIAB) of the Intelligence and Security Studies Department at Coastal Carolina University.
Congratulations to Rob Pasqual ’77, who recently performed well in the NYC Senior Games! Rob ran several races including the 800M, which he finished second overall and first in his age group at 3:16, and the 400M, which he finished first in his age group. Later, Rob anchored his 4×100 relay team, finishing second. Rob will continue training for the National Senior Games, which will take place in mid-July.
On June 16th, Director of Admissions Jonathan DiDonato ’01 was featured in an interview with longstanding television network PIX11. In celebration of PIX’s 75th Anniversary, Jonathan spoke about his admiration for the network and, in specific, PIX11’s holiday traditions. DiDonato recalled watching the 1934 classic film, March of the Wooden Soldiers, on PIX11 every Thanksgiving morning with his family. You can watch a clip of the interview on PIX11’s Instagram or Facebook.
Bob Zieminski. Anchorman.
Written by Peter Farrell ’64 & Edited by Lou Moscatello ’64
In our June 2nd Beehive, we first shared the passing of Robert S. Zieminski ’64, a Stanner Hall of Famer remembered as a beloved classmate and an exceptional Track & Field athlete. The following is a personal remembrance written by Peter Farrell.
Bob and I were co-captains of the Molloy track team back in 1964. The team numbered some 200+ boys and could clearly claim to be one of the best track teams in the country. We had won the AAU National High School championships at Madison Square Garden in February. Though we were a well-rounded team, the pride of the team was the two-mile relay (4X800m today). Bob, with his poise and great strength, was our anchorman and there was none better. I traditionally ran the third leg and always felt good putting the baton in Bob’s hand. At the Knights of Columbus meet in the Garden, we not only broke the indoor national record, our time of 7:49.3 would have set the outdoor record (still the Molloy school record). We had an off day at the Penn Relays and the four of us winced as we watched rival St. Mary’s walk off with our watches. After all they were several seconds behind us that night at the Garden.
I’m sure it was our legendary coach Mr. Rienzo who organized a rubber match at St. John’s University in early June. He invented the CHSAA Relay Meet just to settle this issue. We were too proud to simply let it go. We drove there from Molloy in Mr. Rienzo’s Volkswagon Beetle. As his car pulled into the parking lot he turned to the four of us and said, “I did not come here to lose.” We got out of the car and Bob looked right at me. He gave me a look and without saying a word, I knew “It was on.” We won that day and set a new high school national record, smashing the old one by six seconds. Our time of 7:43.7 is still the school record. And yes, Bob, my anchorman, finished 20 yards up the track from St. Mary’s and undoubtedly looked like the included picture…a runner of great strength and poise.
Later in college, I never thought of Bob as my competitor even when we met in collegiate races. No, our Stanner connection kept us colleagues. One vivid memory of his grit and humor came at the Drake Relays in our senior year. Up against World Record holder Jim Ryun on the anchor leg of the Distance Medley Relay, Bob blew right by him on the last lap. The crowd went nuts; Jim was the darling of the track world, but Bob wasn’t intimidated. Of course, Ryun ran him down on the last straightaway, but Bob had given it his all, as always. The next day it was my turn, I was to anchor the 4 by one mile relay against … guess who? Yeah, Ryun. As I was about to take the stick, Bob grabbed me and offered some encouragement. “Go by him on the last lap…the crowd will love it.” No such luck. Unlike Bob, I couldn’t stay close to him. Rest in Peace, Bob Zieminski.
Please pray for the repose of the soul of Thomas R. Minnick, Sr. ’64, who passed away on June 4, 2023. A graduate of Niagara University, Thomas enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as Captain for the 1203 Tank Unit stationed in Germany, from 1969 to 1971. He would be honorably discharged. Thomas later enjoyed a career in human resources, recently retiring as director at the Center for Human Resources for the Business Council of New York State in Albany, NY. Please click the following link for more information about the life of Thomas R. Minnick, Sr. | Click Here for Memorial Page
Please pray for the repose of the soul of Dorothea Addeo, who passed away on June 2, 2023. Dorothea was the mother of Craig Addeo ’83.
We are saddened to share the passing of Karen Feeney Cashell, sister of Sean Feeney ’83. Karen passed away on May 28, 2023. Please keep Karen and the Feeney and Cashell families in your prayers. | Click Here for Memorial Page
Please join us in prayer for the repose of the soul of Ellen Sullivan, who passed away on May 8, 2023. Ellen was the beloved mother of John Sullivan, Patrick Sullivan ’82, and Brian Sullivan ‘84.
We were recently informed of the passing of Martin A. “Marty” Sledzaus ’64 on June 30, 2022. Please keep Martin in your prayers.
