With $40 Million In College Scholarships, The Class of 2012 Has A Lot To Celebrate

The Class of 2012 has reached the end of their journey through Archbishop Molloy High School. For 4 years this very active class has made an impact on their school and each other, but now it is time for them to move on to their next great challenges in life. This dramatic change can be daunting for some, but the faculty here at Molloy, as well as support from fellow classmates, has prepared the Class of 2012 for what lies ahead. Some will be traveling great distances (University of Notre Dame, Stonehill College, U.S. Air Force Academy, St. Michael’s College, Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Central Florida), while others will be a short drive from home (Yale, Cooper Union, Fordham, St. John’s University, Pratt Institute). Regardless of where they will be, our Stanners are sure to succeed not for school, but for life.

On June 2nd, the 120th commencement of Stanners took place in the Colden Auditorium at Queens College. President Richard Karsten ’81 led off the commencement with a reflective reading encouraging students to take the time to enjoy the simple things in life. Molloy’s Principal, Brother Thomas Schady, FMS, offered the keynote address and spoke of the Marist Spirit, encouraging the graduates to set their directions with strong values of knowledge, service and faith. “Education at Molloy is founded on the principle that a student’s mind is a most precious gift,” said Br. Thomas. “If you can think for yourself…arrive at knowledge that frees you to be a better woman or man…arrive at decisions and choices that are your own because of what you have learned here…then Molloy has succeeded cultivating this gift.” Br. Thomas applauded the graduates and their willingness to engage in service, which is a living testament to the vision of St. Marcellin Champagnat that spans three centuries. “All of you who have been involved in the service programs know full well the cost of such a commitment and activity…Service takes time, can often be tedious and demanding. It may be given generously, but is not always received with open arms.” Br. Thomas continued, “Molloy hopes to have made you men and women of service – where your generosity of time and talent has made a difference in someone else’s life. Br. Thomas wished the Class of 2012 success and a destiny that remains full of promise and hope.

Jennifer Hwu delivered the Salutatorian Address in which she proclaimed that Molloy truly provided the Class of 2012 with the best four years of their lives. Through all the challenges they faced along the way, Hwu pointed out that there were always three reliable sources to rely on. “Our peers…they are our listeners. They have undergone difficulties themselves and sympathize with us. Our peers understand us and remind us that we are strong.” Hwu continued, “Our mentors and teachers. They are our motivators. They have experienced their own battles that tested their integrity. They encourage us to continue standing up for what is right.” Finally, Hwu placed the spotlight on the parents. “They are our prime supporters…We might dislike their overprotective nature, consider their reminders annoying, and find their expectations unbearable, but they are teaching us a lesson. They have instilled in us the important value of staying true to ourselves.” Before ending, Hwu pledged to be a leader that would forge the path to tomorrow and encouraged her classmates to be the same. Hwu is currently still deciding between NYU, Columbia, and University of Pennsylvania.

Alexandra Woods followed Hwu’s spirited speech with the Valedictorian Address. “Part of deciding where we’re going…is knowing where we’re from,” Woods spoke. “We come from a background that includes a solid Christian education.” Woods described their journey through elementary school as a somewhat sheltered one, only to receive a bit of culture shock upon entering Molloy. “There were so many new faces and cultures…we were worried about making friends and fitting in. High School confronted us with diversity…this diversity allowed us to explore.” Woods suggested that diversity is what makes Molloy so special today – with “the basketball player singing in the choir,” “the math geek acting in a school play” and “the teachers giving up their free time to coach teams.” She continued, “Here we see people with great minds as well as great spirits. Because of these mind-opening experiences we leave high school with a better understanding of who we are, and with the Stanner mindset of taking risks and believing in ourselves.” Woods went on to say that being a Stanner means behaving in kindness, helping others, using one’s intelligence, and actively pursuing good. Woods will be attending Fordham University on a Dean’s Scholarship.

Read these speeches in full here: Salutatorian Address | Valedictorian Address

Archbishop Molloy High School awarded 357 diplomas to students attending 103 different colleges with those not previously mentioned including CUNY/Sophie Davis, Rensselaer Polytechnic, Boston University, Cornell, Parsons School for Design, College of St. Rose, Rutgers, Northeastern, University of Pennsylvania and many other wonderful schools. The Class of 2012 earned 100% college acceptance and over $40 million in scholarships awarded, topping the previous graduating class by nearly $15 million.

The class of 2012 returned two days after their commencement for the Senior Graduation Breakfast, a tradition that began several years ago. Alumni Spiritual Director Br. Pat Hogan and President Richard Karsten welcomed them to the Stanner alumni community. “Whatever path in life that you choose to take, know that you are always welcome back home here at Molloy,” said Karsten. He also invited them to follow Molloy on Twitter at #StannerAlumni. The grads finally received their long-anticipated 2012 yearbooks and kept busy having everyone in sight sign their names. They also enjoyed a great breakfast, which was served by many of the faculty members that have helped them grow and develop into individuals solidly rooted in the Marist tradition. We welcome our newest graduates back any time to visit and inform us of their successes. Hopefully they will occupy many class updates in The Beehive and in our annual magazine, Stanner Life, in the years to come. We encourage all graduates who have not already done so to register with their class year on the Stanner Alumni Website so they will be sure to receive The Beehive every two weeks. Congratulations on your achievements, and good luck in your endeavors! We hope you enjoy your first Beehive alumni newsletter!

 Click Here to view the full photo gallery from this year’s Graduation Breakfast.

Day at the Vineyard

Although those of us in New York have largely lucked out with weather so far in 2012, everyone always eagerly awaits the coming of summer – perhaps with a glass of wine in hand. Saturday, June 9th proved to be another gorgeous day as Stanners and friends welcomed the summer season at the Diliberto Winery in Jamesport, New York. Serving as host for Molloy’s second annual Day at the Vineyard alumni event, Sal ’63 and Maryann Diliberto opened up their vineyard to the Stanner community for a fun, relaxing day. Sal’s local wines with Italian flair are well known, having won three gold medals in the annual New York State wine contest in 2004. Made with a genuine passion for the craft, Diliberto wines are “the good stuff.” This is of course fortunate for the Stanner community, who get the opportunity to sample these wines throughout the Day at the Vineyard. Complimenting the wine were gourmet cheeses hand-selected by Frank Gambino ’74, and sandwiches prepared by a local caterer with options including grilled filet mignon, Cajun chicken, and focaccia bread served with fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and lemon caper pasta. Molloy’s very own in house “taste maker” Jim Sheehan ’75 led the conversation about each wine as the tasting rolled out. Those in attendance took the opportunity to not only enjoy the wine, but tour the vineyard rows to see where the process all begins. President Richard Karsten ’81 raised his glass to celebrate a successful afternoon retreat. “It is very exciting to know that Stanners from the last 5 decades can come together to share stories, escape the city, turn their cell phones off, and enjoy good company and good wine,” said Karsten. “It doesn’t get any better.” Sal and Maryann were equally pleased, hoping to host more events for Molloy in the coming months. We will bring you news of new wine events in future issues of the Beehive, so stay tuned!

 Click Here to view the full photo gallery from this year’s Day at the Vineyard.

Around the School

Honoring Louis Willet ‘63

Every year on Memorial Day we remember those men and women that have given their lives to fight for our freedom, as well as those who continue to do so today. Walk through the Stanner Hall of Fame and you’ll find a name and a face that should never be forgotten. Many years ago, Mr. Jeff Gallagher ’88 started a tradition that he insists his history classes always be a part of. Every May, around Memorial Day, Gallagher’s junior history class will leave the classroom and head down to the Hall of Fame. There they mount a single red rose in honor of Private First Class Louis Edward Willet ’63. Willet was a United States Army soldier who gave his life in an effort to save the other members of Company C, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division in 1967 during the Vietnam War. Stationed in Kontum Province, Willet’s Company was conducting a security sweep when a large contingent of enemy forces opened fire, precariously pinning down the US soldiers. Willet, a 21 year old rifleman, chose to act as he rose up to distract the enemy, drawing heavy gunfire. Willet suffered multiple wounds, but stood his ground, allowing the other soldiers of Company C to retreat to safety. Willet’s heroics ultimately cost him his life as he would fall in battle, but he did not die in vain. The US Army would later recognize Willet’s bravery by posthumously awarding him with the Medal of Honor. By reading Willet’s Medal of Honor citation to Stanners every year, Gallagher hopes that they will not only remember his courage, but be inspired to display the same spirit throughout their own lives.

Briarwood Street Fair

The Briarwood Community Association recently held a street fair on June 10th on Manton Street for the local community. Neighborhood families were treated to music and dancing provided by a DJ, and free pizza, ice cream and soft drinks from local businesses including Stanner favorite Alba’s Pizzaria. A bouncy castle as well as other games and activities were open to the kids of Briarwood too. One such activity was a fire safety exercise conducted by the FDNY, which simulated real fire situations. “As part of community outreach, Molloy enjoys cooperating with local businesses and programs,” said President Richard Karsten ’81. “This is one great example of us promoting a safe and vibrant community, which in turn benefits Molloy and its students.” Pictured are Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz, Molloy Facilities Manager Brian Yuska, Briarwood Community Association President Sy Schwartz, and President Richard Karsten ’81.

Steppers Are Tops In Country

Congratulations to the boys Step Team, which earned the National High School Stepping Championship in May. Mrs. Anne Lonergan, moderator of the team, is gushing about the boys, saying they are the most talented team she has seen and they deserve all the accolades they are receiving. While several seniors have now left the team, there are still more than a few juniors ready to take the baton and lead up and coming steppers to victory.

Upcoming Events

Save the Date – Stanner Class Reunion

Many of you have already called the Stanner Alumni Center to inquire about this year’s reunion, which is a great indication that this year could be the biggest yet. The Stanner Class Reunion will take place on November 3rd, 2012 here at Archbishop Molloy High School. Classes ending in 2’s and 7’s will celebrate their reunions, which include: 1942, 1947, 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2007. The Class of 1962 will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary while the Class of 1987 will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary. 1962 and 1987 graduates will receive alumni medals following the annual Mass of Remembrance in the Ralph DeChiaro Theater to commemorate these special milestones. More information on this year’s reunion will be posted in the Beehive and on the Alumni homepage soon. If you would like additional information, or would like to help recruit members of your class to attend, please call  (718) 441-9210.

Save the Date – Andrew Harvey Memorial 5K Fun Run

by Frank Gambino ‘74

On Sunday morning, October 7th, 2012, Archbishop Molloy High School will host its 25th annual Andrew Harvey Memorial 5K Fun Run. In 1997 the race was renamed in memory of Andrew Harvey, a beloved Molloy student and track athlete. We are hoping for a record number of participants at this year’s milestone event. One goal of ours is to have at least one alumnus from each of the last 25 years entered in this run. We have a collection of shirts from previous races and we’d like to take a commemorative picture of 25 people wearing these shirts. We will also be taking a picture of all race participants to commemorate this event. So please mark the date on your calendars. Registration information for this event will be released in the coming weeks. We hope to see you here at Molloy on October 7th.

The Catch

It was cool June evening in Flushing. The Mets were hosting the St. Louis Cardinals at Citi Field. Mets pitcher Johan Santana, fresh off missing over a year of action with a bum shoulder, was in the midst of a no-hit bid – that is a game where no hits are allowed by the starting pitcher. Of course, everyone knew that no Met had ever thrown a no-hitter in 8,019 games – a dubious record to say the least. It could be said that fans were perhaps feeling reserved exuberance that night; they knew it could happen, but expected that it would end in heartbreak like so many Mets moments do. Then Cardinals’ catcher Yadier Molina sent a deep fly ball to the left field wall. Outfielder Mike Baxter ’02 knew the ball would be playable right off the bat. He tracked it back to the wall, extended his left hand and caught the ball. In doing so, he gave himself no time to brace for impact, and his shoulder quickly and harshly met the wall. Though padded, the wall has very little give when it is hit with such force. Baxter fell down in pain, but the umpires signaled the catch had been made. For the time being, Baxter had preserved the no-hitter. Mets fans started to believe. Santana would go on to secure the no-hitter by striking out David Freese for the final out. Mets history had been made, and while all eyes were on Santana, he was quick to reflect credit back to his teammates, including Mike Baxter (who left the game after his injury). “I saw him (Baxter) running back to the warning track and he made that play…it was amazing…an outstanding play,” said Santana. “It saved the game.” They say there is always one unbelievable play to help preserve every no-hitter, and considering he gave up his body to do it, Baxter made that play. Watch The Catch | Watch Baxter’s Post-Game Interview

While the celebration commenced on the field, Baxter was being tended to by the training staff in the clubhouse. Although in tremendous pain, Baxter was both happy and humble. “What a night for the Mets. What a night for Johan.” He knew the importance of his catch, but chose to give full credit to his teammate – what any true sportsman would do. The following day, Baxter’s catch nabbed full page stories in every newspaper and multiple articles following up on his condition. His catch was also highlighted prominently on ESPN, MLB Network, and other news telecasts. Baxter’s injury would land him on the disabled list for 6 weeks, a big loss for the club. Still, they are optimistic that he will heal and be back this summer. In case you missed them, you can browse the following articles about Baxter and his catch, which consensus says will live on in Mets history – and baseball history – forever: NY Post | Daily News | NY Times | Newsday |Yahoo!

Class Updates

Bill Kelly ’59 visited Molloy recently with his son, who wanted to  tour the school his dad talks about so often. Bill maintains that the Marist Brothers impacted him tremendously. While at Molloy he became a manager with the baseball team and basketball team, including during the undefeated ‘58 season under Coach Lou Carnesecca ’43. Bill truly loved St. Ann’s Academy and Archbishop Molloy High School. He met his wife on the subway going to The Mary Louis Academy, has held onto his St. Ann’s jacket for over 50 years, and still gets a kick out of the old photos in the St. Ann’s display case. Bill’s other passion is recreational sailing, describing it as, “A fun way to pass the time.” Bill has been retired from Pfizer labs for almost 9 years. He ran the aviation department, which according to Bill was “10% of my job and 90% of my headaches.” Bill has 2 sons that live in Los Angeles and 1 that lives in Marina Del Ray.

Congratulations to Msgr. John McGuirl ’63, who is celebrating his 40th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood. Msrg. McGuirl is the pastor at Our Lady of Mercy parish in Forest Hills. He is an active alumnus of Molloy and recently returned to bless the newly modernized William J. Murphy Library in 2011. May Msgr. McGuirl celebrate Mass with Stanners and the Queens community for many years to come.

Mike Contino ’68 is now a grandfather for the third time. Denise Contino was born to Ryan ’96 and Maria on May 31, 2012. Denise is their second child. Denise joins grandkids Benjamin and Adrianna, making for one big happy family. Congratulations to the Continos!

Congratulations to John ’01 and Christine Catalanotto Sikiric, who were married on Saturday, June 2nd at Saint Andrew Avellino Church in Flushing. Christine, of course, is the daughter of the Stanner Alumni Center’s own Nancy Catalanotto as well as Tom ’75. The wedding party included brothers Steven ’97 and Andrew ’94 and brother in law Tom Catalanotto ’03. Several of John’s friends were also part of the wedding party including Philipp Kuhner ’01 and John Maser ’01. Jack Curran attended the Mass and was photographed having a bit of fun outside the church, blowing bubbles meant to greet the newlyweds. Athletic Director Mike McCleary snapped the candid shot of Coach.

We are saddened to share news of the passing of Edward M. Santimauro ’68. A resident of Vernon Hills, Illinois for 16 years, Edward died May 31, 2012 at his home. He was born February 26, 1951 in New York City. He had a long career in professional recruitment with several firms including Hewitt Associates, McKinsey & Co, and most recently Korn/Ferry International. Edward is husband of Kathy Seich Santimauro; father of Lauren, Chris and Amy; brother of Michael Santimauro ’64, and son of late Michael and Eleanor Santimauro. Please pray for Edward and the Santimauro family.