Gilmour Magazine
GILMOUR 16
BROTHER ROBERT E. LAVELLE, C.S.C.
JULY 21, 1940 - JANUARY 22, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE
GILMOUR
Sponsored by the Congregation of Holy Cross, Notre Dame, Indiana
We send one copy of this magazine per household. If a member of your family has a new permanent address, please let us know so that we can update our records. To do so, visit gilmour.org/alumupdate (alumni) or gilmour.org/updateinfo (parents).
EDITOR Amy Boyle CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amy Boyle Rob Fowler Marisa Martin Moses GILMOUR CONTACTS Chief Enrollment Management, Tuition Assistance, Marketing and Communications Officer Beth Titas Lazzaro
Chief Advancement Officer Ryan Ryzner DESIGN markey creative
40 a night in the garden
PRINTING Oliver Printing PHOTOGRAPHY Neal Busch Brendan Hearns '26 Marisa Martin Moses Mark Most Venditti Studios
OUR HOLY CROSS MISSION IS THE FOUNDATION FROM WHICH WE EDUCATE THE MIND AND EMPOWER THE HEART OF EVERY GILMOUR STUDENT.
To develop the competence to see and the courage to act in creating a more humane and just society.
Celebrating a life well lived 10
Brother Robert Lavelle, C.S.C.
contents
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Living the Mission
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Catching Up
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College Corner
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In Her Space
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Around Campus
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Alum News
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Alumni in Focus - Tom Eby ’65
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Alumni in Focus - Phil Cable ’ 80
varsity Hockey state champions 42
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Alumni in Focus - Brittan Mawby Leiser ’ 07
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Alumni in Focus - Angeline Monitello ’ 19
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Advancement Corner
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A Night in the Garden
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Athletics 2025-2026
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In Memoriam
COLUMNS
Living the Mission GRACIE BUJOLL '19 FINDS THE STORIES THAT MATTER
For Gracie Bujoll ’19 , living the mission begins with seeing people fully. From volunteering as a student at Gilmour to her current role as Communications and Marketing Associate for The Port of Greater Cincinnati Development Authority, Bujoll has built a career rooted in storytelling, advocacy and perspective — ensuring that individuals and neighborhoods are not overlooked. When reflecting on her time at Gilmour, she points first to her summers volunteering at Saint Adalbert with Mrs. Pryatel. Arriving on campus at 7 a.m., boarding a bus and serving in a community unfamiliar to her, she began to understand the power of presence. “It taught me perspective,” she says. “It helped me see how much simply showing up in someone’s life can matter.” That perspective deepened under the mentorship of longtime English teacher Mr. Overman. In his classroom, Bujoll discovered journalism and launched Humans of Gilmour, inspired by “Humans of New York.” Through interviews and photographs, she highlighted the stories of boarding students, day students, athletes and international classmates. “At Gilmour, you pass people every day,” she says. “But everyone has a story.” The project reinforced what she was beginning to understand: “seeing the whole person requires curiosity and intentional listening.”
At Xavier University, Bujoll continued blending creativity with service. As vice president of the Sustainable Fashion Club, she helped shape the organization around accessibility, hosting clothing drives and upcycling events and partnering with Dress for Success to provide professional attire for women entering the workforce. “Confidence matters,” she says. “Sometimes something as simple as clothing can help someone walk into an opportunity feeling prepared.” Today, Bujoll serves as the “in-house journalist” at The Port. She tells the stories of first-time homebuyers, small business owners and nonprofit partners, translating complex economic development initiatives into human impact. “These people and neighborhoods don’t exist to those who are unaware,” she explains. “If no one tells their stories, they remain invisible.” One recent project reflects both the competence to see and the courage to act. While searching for a creative staff Christmas gift, Bujoll and her team noticed that on Bengals gamedays, nearly everyone in Cincinnati wore “Cincy” hats. Curious about the story behind them, they discovered that 100 percent of proceeds support The Cincy Hat Foundation, a nonprofit founded by a Cincinnati Bengal, dedicated to housing adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. After purchasing hats for her colleagues, she led a partnership that ultimately resulted in the nonprofit’s purchase of Port-owned land in Madisonville. After a year of coordination, approvals and communications strategy, the organization is now breaking ground on a multi-unit building for adults with IDD. “It took a year of persistence,” she says. “When something aligns with your values, you advocate for it.”
Her passion for disability advocacy traces back to Gilmour, where she and her brother, Jack ’17 , both served as Special Olympics coaches and she participated in a mission trip to Honduras — experiences that shaped her understanding of privilege, resilience and human dignity. When asked what living the Gilmour mission looks like today, Bujoll points to listening. “I have one mouth and two ears,” she says. “If you don’t listen, you can’t tell someone’s story with integrity.” Her advice to current students is simple: “Find your strength and nurture it. The world doesn’t need you to be everything. It needs you to be fully who you are.” Through storytelling and action, Gracie Bujoll continues to live the mission — ensuring that every person, every neighborhood and every story has the chance to be seen.
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Gracie Bujoll and a representative from the Cincy Hat Project at the ground- breaking for the foundation's multi-unit building for adults with IDD Gracie Bujoll , Communications and Marketing Associate for The Port of Greater Cincinnati Development Authority.
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COLUMNS
catching up with SAL CARUSO
When Sal Caruso reflects on his years teaching theology at Gilmour Academy from 2006–2012 — and his return as a long-term substitute in 2022 — one word rises immediately to the surface: community. “There’s such a sense of family spirit,” he says. “How can I be somewhere only six years and still feel such a deep connection? That says everything.” Returning to campus years later felt special. The relationships endured. Many former students still keep in touch, and Caruso delights in seeing where life has taken them.
“I look at my time at Gilmour as the place where I developed my own voice,” he reflects. “Those relationships were intentional. There’s no other place like it.” Caruso especially loved teaching juniors — students eager to ask hard questions and engage in thoughtful dialogue. Knowing every student by name mattered, as did taking theology beyond the classroom. Some of his most meaningful moments came during immersion and service trips. He traveled with students to Austin, Texas to work with immigrants and to New Orleans to help rebuild after Hurricane Katrina. Those experiences moved faith from discussion to encounter, reminding students that belief is lived through relationships and service. Coming from a Jesuit background, Caruso found deep resonance with Gilmour’s Holy Cross mission — particularly its emphasis on inclusiveness, hospitality and the option
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for the poor. The mission shaped not only what he taught, but how he approached life: walking alongside others and asking how to make God’s love visible in the world. Two mentors at Gilmour profoundly shaped Caruso’s life and leadership: Br. Robert Lavelle, C.S.C. and Frank McCamley. Caruso says returning to campus for Br. Robert’s funeral was deeply moving. “Br. Robert walked beside you,” he recalls. “He modeled what it means to lead — not managing people, but accompanying them.” McCamley offered steady encouragement, urging Caruso to find his voice, stay persistent and trust that when something felt difficult, he could simply “try again tomorrow.” Their influence continues to shape how he understands mentorship, ministry and fatherhood. Caruso’s path to Gilmour came together unexpectedly. After moving to Cleveland for his wife, he interviewed at the school— and from the moment he stepped on campus, it felt like love at first sight. Eventually, new opportunities led him in a different direction. Today, he lives on Pi Acres Family Farm — a small homestead named for its 3.14 acres — where he grows fruits and vegetables, raises soy-free egg- laying chickens and keeps bees. What began during COVID with a single hive has grown to 10. The hobby eventually became Crooked River Naturals, a small business producing local honey, beeswax products and candles. This summer, he plans to pursue a Master Beekeeper certification through Cornell University. Beekeeping, he says, has become a spiritual practice. “If you’re going to keep bees well, you have to be fully present. You can’t do it distractedly. The bees tell you what they need.” The parallels to teaching are clear: meet people where they are, listen carefully and practice patience. Caruso’s understanding of vocation has expanded. Once centered on teaching theology, it now includes the rhythms of family life. “Husband. Father. Family dinner every night. That’s vocation too.” Though his setting has changed, the lesson remains the same. Community matters. Presence matters. Walking alongside one another matters. And for Sal Caruso, Gilmour will always feel like home.
Top: Beekeeping on his homestead Bottom: Sal leading a service trip to New Orleans in 2011
Sal with his wife and three sons
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COLUMNS
A Spark in the Classroom. A Future in the Lab.
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Kendall Long '23
For Kendall Long ’23 , a love of science began early — in an eighth-grade science class at Gilmour. Learning about genetic mutations sparked her curiosity and fascination with how biology works at the molecular level. “Science just made the light bulb in my brain turn on,” she recalls. That early interest deepened when she got to the Upper School, through challenging courses like Dr. Turk’s molecular genetics class and Dr. Goel’s biology course. In molecular genetics, experiments such as genetically modifying E. coli allowed Long to see how abstract scientific concepts translate into real lab work. Meanwhile, Doc Goel’s demanding biology course pushed students to think critically, draw connections across disciplines and develop the disciplined study habits required for advanced science work.
Western Reserve University, conducting hands-on molecular biology research. Immersed in the day-to-day work of a research lab — designing experiments, testing hypotheses and analyzing results — she began to see a future she hadn’t fully imagined before. “That was when I realized I could actually do research as a career,” she says. “I was in the lab every day, and even though it was tiring, it was fun.” Today, a junior biology major with a chemistry minor at Howard University, Long is continuing to build on that early experience. She currently works in a campus research lab studying Staphylococcus aureus, investigating how genetic interactions could potentially reduce the bacterium’s virulence — research
that may one day contribute to the development of new antibiotics.
Each summer since completing Catalyst, she has also returned to Dr. Baker’s lab as a research intern, expanding on the molecular biology research she first began through Catalyst. Her growing expertise has even positioned her as a mentor to current Gilmour Catalyst students working in the lab, offering advice and sharing insights from her own experience. Long credits Gilmour not only with sparking her love of science but also with helping her develop the habits that make research possible — from time management to forming strong mentorship relationships with teachers and professors. After Howard, Long plans to pursue a Ph.D. in biochemistry and continue working in genetic research. Her goal is to contribute discoveries that make future breakthroughs possible — continuing the same curiosity that first sparked in a Gilmour classroom and now drives her work in the lab.
Kendall Long '23 completing work in the lab at CWRU during her Catalyst experience at Gilmour Kendall Long '23 presenting her CWRU research at a symposium at Howard University
Those classes strengthened Long’s growing fascination with biology — but it was Gilmour’s Catalyst research program that ultimately illuminated her path. Through Catalyst, Long spent five weeks working in the lab of Dr. Baker at Case
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FEATURE
BROTHER ROB
He did not command a room; he invited it. He did not seek recognition; he sought understanding.
In Memoriam: Br. Robert E. Lavelle, C.S.C. JULY 21, 1940 – JANUARY 22, 2026
On January 22, the Gilmour Academy community — and the extended Congregation of Holy Cross — lost an extraordinary man in the passing of Br. Robert E. Lavelle, C.S.C. Born in Cleveland on July 21, 1940, the youngest of 13 children in a close-knit Irish Catholic family, Br. Robert’s life unfolded as a response of quiet fidelity to a call he first heard as a young man at St. Edward High School. He entered the juniorate program for the Brothers of Holy Cross in 1958, professed first vows the following year and began what would become 56 years in Catholic education — years marked not by ambition, but by humble and enduring devotion.
Yet to speak only of buildings and budgets would be to miss the heart of his legacy. His true work was quieter — and far more lasting. When Kathy Kenny was appointed Gilmour’s Head of School in 2015, she stepped into a school profoundly shaped by decades of his thoughtful and unwavering guidance. Reflecting on the foundation she inherited, she shared, “Brother Robert devoted his life to strengthening this institution and rooting it firmly in the Holy Cross mission. I inherited a school that was mission-centered and deeply loved — and that is a testament to his years of work.”
BERT LAVELLE
After early assignments at Sacred Heart Military Academy and Archbishop Hoban High School, he arrived at Gilmour Academy in 1976. In 1981, he was appointed Headmaster. What followed was not simply a long tenure — one of the longest in Ohio history — but a remarkable season of shaping, strengthening and anchoring an institution. Across 34 years of leadership, Br. Robert guided Gilmour through both uncertainty and expansion. He led the merger of Glen Oak and Gilmour, ushering in coeducation while preserving the schools’ character and traditions. He grew both the endowment and enrollment. The campus itself changed visibly and meaningfully: the Lower School, Our Lady Chapel, Weber Stadium, the Floyd E. Stefanski Ice Center, the Lynn and Michael Kelley Middle School, the Athletic Center and the renovation of the Classroom Building stand as tangible markers of his foresight.
Br. Robert’s leadership was marked by a rare combination of gentleness and conviction. He did not command a room; he invited it. He did not seek recognition; he sought understanding. Jerry Murphy ’64 , former Chairman of Gilmour’s Board of Trustees who worked alongside Br. Robert for 17 years, reflected on both his leadership and friendship: “Br. Robert led with kindness and compassion, always putting the good of the Academy and its students before all else. I respected him as a leader and I treasured him as a friend.” As current Chairman of the Board Fred Botek ’85 reflected in his eulogy at the funeral, Br. Robert “had a quiet voice but… an uncanny knack for making people listen intently — with their ears, their minds and their hearts — and then follow his lead.” In his homily at the funeral, Fr. John Blazek ’58, C.S.C noted that Br. Robert embodied the Paschal Mystery — the conviction that sacrifice leads to renewal, that the cross gives way to resurrection. Br. Robert rose before
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FEATURE
dawn for daily Mass, slipping into the quiet of 6:30 a.m. liturgies. He traveled countless miles — to Notre Dame, to Holy Cross schools across the world, to prisons and shelters — carrying with him a steady presence and a desire to listen. Even in his final years, he continued visiting inmates in federal prisons and spending time with those experiencing homelessness in Cleveland. The mission was not something he administered; it was something he lived. And always, there was relationship. Those who worked with him remember the gentle knock on the door and the familiar phrase: “You got a moment?” It was rarely urgent, never harsh — simply an invitation to conversation, reflection and growth. For Br. Robert, education was not transactional; it was transformational — about forming hearts as surely as shaping minds. A COMMUNITY UNITED IN GRATITUDE On January 29, the campus he loved became a place of sacred gratitude. Brothers of Holy Cross traveled from South Bend and across the Midwest Province. Alumni returned from near and far. Current and past parents, former faculty members and friends filled the Athletic Center in reverent solidarity. Perhaps most striking was the presence of Gilmour’s Upper School students. Though they had never known Br. Robert personally, the whole Upper School student body was in attendance and conducted themselves with remarkable dignity and attentiveness. Their quiet reverence spoke volumes: they understood that they are the beneficiaries of a foundation laid long before they arrived. As the Mass concluded, current and former faculty and staff members lined the aisle, forming an honor guard. Br. Robert’s casket — carried by fellow Holy Cross Brothers along with Dean of Students David Pfundstein ’93 and St. Edward football coach Tom Lombardo ’88 — passed through a corridor of
colleagues whose own vocations had been shaped by his example. It was a moment at once solemn and beautiful: a final lesson in gratitude, community and fidelity to mission. HOPE, NOW AND FOREVER In his final St. Patrick’s Day message to the community, Br. Robert offered words that now read as both benediction and charge: “As we continue our life’s journey, may the grace of God’s protection and His great love abide within each of us — in our homes and hearts — as we seek to be a source of hope to all we encounter.” He did not merely speak of hope; he lived it — in board meetings and classrooms, in seasons of financial strain and moments of triumph, under bridges and in prison visiting rooms. He believed, deeply and without reservation, in the inherent dignity of every person, and that the work of a Holy Cross school is to help young people discover their talents, cultivate their character and use their abilities in service to others. Gentle yet firm. Intellectually curious. Irish — and proudly so. A visionary who preferred khakis and penny loafers to pomp, and conversation to command. A leader whose truest accomplishment was forming generations of students who understand that their lives carry purpose beyond themselves. TO HONOR HIM IS NOT MERELY TO REMEMBER HIM. IT IS TO LIVE AS HE DID — WITH HUMILITY, GENEROSITY AND QUIET CONVICTION — COMMITTED ALWAYS TO BEING A SOURCE OF HOPE. May he rest in the peace he called us to create through lives marked by purpose, courage and care for one another.
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Br. Robert Lavelle was passionate about ensuring that a Gilmour education remained accessible to students from all backgrounds. In that spirit, the BROTHER ROBERT E. LAVELLE, C.S.C. SCHOLARSHIP FUND has been established to continue his work of opening doors and creating opportunities, a fitting tribute to a man who believed education transforms lives. To contribute to this fund, visit gilmour.org/BrRobert
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FEATURE
TRIBUTES FROM THE COMMUNITY
“ Robert was the epitome of eloquence and the true embodiment of the Holy Cross spirit. To spend even a few moments with him was to feel a calm inspiration. I once heard him described as a quiet, steady call to do more and hope for more. He had a rare gift with words; they had the power to ease one's anxieties and fill a space with genuine hope. I’ll never forget the first time I met him. I was visiting for a Board meeting before I officially started, and I had just finished reading an article about Catholic leadership and the importance of succession planning. Robert was featured in the piece, and I was admittedly a bit starstruck. When I told him I had just read all about him, he just smiled with that signature humility and told me not to believe everything I hear.” − Elizabeth Torres, President of fellow Holy Cross school Holy Trinity High School “Brother Robert WAS Gilmour Academy! Such an eloquent, soft-spoken scholar and exceptional leader who showed compassion and care to all. We are indebted to him for ‘educating the mind and the heart’ of so many. Eternal rest in God’s loving arms, dear Br. Robert.” − Dr. Linda Noelle, former Trustee and past parent
“He saw something in me before I did myself… Will miss him beyond what words can describe.” − James Hearn ’03
“Over the years, Brother Robert’s leadership, mentorship and ultimately friendship blessed me beyond measure. I am profoundly thankful for every interaction we shared. He had a remarkable way of making every meeting feel like it was the most important of the day and that you were the most important person he would see. His kindness and authenticity inspired excellence and brought out the best in everyone around him … Brother Robert Lavelle was an extraordinary man who never sought to be extraordinary — yet his quiet strength and genuine heart made him unforgettable. His spirit and work will continue to live on through all of us blessed enough to have known him.” − John Malloy, varsity hockey coach and Admission/Advancement Officer “RIP Brother Lavelle. May you be greeted as kindly at the pearly gates as you greeted us each morning. A true Holy Cross legend!” − Tom Lombardo ’89, head football coach at St. Edward High School
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TRIBUTES FROM THE COMMUNITY “I am holding deep gratitude and deep sadness as I reflect on the life of Br. Robert Lavelle. Br. Robert was the Head of School at Gilmour when I was a student, and years later, he welcomed me back, first as a student teacher, and then as a teacher. His impact extended far beyond the walls of the school. He touched my life, my family, and countless others with his steady presence, wisdom, and quiet confidence in goodness. He led with faith, compassion, and hope, never loudly, but always powerfully. Br. Robert was truly a beacon of hope, and his legacy lives on in the people he shaped, supported, and inspired to serve others. May he rest in peace, and may we continue to carry forward the light he so generously shared.”
− Jessica Grassi Simonetta ’05, Gilmour Upper School teacher, current parent
“We shall never forget Brother Robert as a caring, kind, inspirational leader of Gilmour. He was a man who showed his deep faith and love for young people and their families. This was true for our family during difficult times. Brother Robert was willing to do what no other head of a school we talked to would do. Our son Michael had been in a devastating accident when he was 8 years old. He miraculously lived with serious medical issues. He was turned away at many schools, including the one he had been attending. He was home schooled by his family. By middle school we knew he needed to be socially with other young people. Brother Robert was willing to take a risk having a seriously ill young man at Gilmour. He and the faculty shepherded Michael as well as our family through these years until Michael graduated. We are eternally grateful to Brother Robert for his care, love and compassion and the decision that allowed Michael to experience a more normal life, an excellent education, and the care and love of the Gilmour community.” − Kathy and Jim Pender, past parents, past grandparents, Trustees “Br. Robert provided steady, vision-oriented leadership for decades. His desire to put Gilmour and its students at the core of his decision making has paid enormous dividends over the years. He laid the foundation for what Gilmour has grown into, which is a shining light in Catholic education. Our community mourns his loss, but can forever be grateful for the leadership he provided. RIP Br. Robert.” − Dan Hyland ’83, past parent, Trustee “I remember Brother Robert, shortly after he became Headmaster, coming to me, following a presentation I gave in the library to my classmates. He approached and told me I had the ability to lead and encouraged me to exercise and improve those skills. I have no idea if that type of instruction was part of his standard repertoire. It doesn't matter. What does matter is that I took the encouragement as possibility, and have spent these subsequent years striving to embody what he saw. My efforts to be of service are modeled on his, and all the brothers’ and priests’ of Holy Cross, example. Openness and thoughtfulness are not easy. To be of service is not easy. Like any craft, they take discipline and effort and commitment. Brother Robert lived them all. Thank you, Brother, for helping form the man I am today.” − Vince Guarino ’81
After attending Br. Robert’s funeral, several Upper School students reflected on how the experience deepened their understanding of his impact on the Gilmour community. "Leaving the Mass, I felt a new sense of appreciation for Gilmour and for all of the people who, like Br. Robert, dedicated their lives to the community. Brother Robert’s life made me reflect on what it truly means to leave something lasting behind. He gave his life to this school, and in doing so, he gave generations of students a place that feels like home." — Campbell Hairston ’27 “One of the most powerful moments of the funeral for me was when the bagpipes began playing ‘Amazing Grace’ I remember getting goosebumps almost instantly. Even though the music itself was loud, it felt like the quietest Gilmour has ever been. Not because there was literal silence, but because it felt like Gilmour had lost something so meaningful that the entire community collectively paused to acknowledge it. In that moment, it felt as if the school itself was grieving. It made me realize that Br. Robert was not just an individual, but someone whose presence helped shape the spirit of the place we experience every day.” — Lilly Dinehart ’27
"Most of the student body never had the opportunity to meet him, but our presence mattered. The number of people surrounding him at the funeral was just one example of the work he has done on this earth and his legacy at Gilmour. By showing up, we showed great respect for his life. It was a way of showing gratitude for what he left us with; a community joined together by strong leadership and devotion. It prompted me to remember why Gilmour is the school that it is today. It is not just a place for learning, but a home to many. The community is built around shared faith, values, and support even when it is hard.” — Julia Aziz ’28 “The strong sense of community, faith, and service that students experience daily did not happen by accident. It was shaped by the dedication of the Brothers of Holy Cross, including Br. Robert. His life of service helped establish the norms we now live out: respect, compassion, and commitment to our mission.” — Maddie DeWeese ’26
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COLUMNS
IN HER SPACE KATHY LYNCH
What does a typical day look like for you, balancing your work with the Upper School Director and your role on the counseling team? My day is busy, but I love it. The first thing I do each morning is pull up the many calendars I manage to get a sense of the day ahead. It can feel a little overwhelming at times, but it helps me stay organized. I then have what we fondly call a “morning huddle” with the Director of the Upper School, Dr. Tym Tagliaferro. That meeting really serves as my roadmap for the day. Once we review his schedule and priorities, I turn my attention to supporting the College Counseling and Student Counseling teams. Depending on the time of year, the
WE RECENTLY SAT DOWN WITH KATHY LYNCH, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO THE DIRECTOR OF THE UPPER SCHOOL, COLLEGE COUNSELING AND STUDENT DEVELOPMENT. SHE IS A FIXTURE IN THE ADMINISTRATION HALLWAY AND SOMEONE WHO TOUCHES THE LIFE OF EVERY STUDENT DURING THEIR TIME AT GILMOUR. What led you to Gilmour? I had been working at another high school and was ready for a new opportunity. When I saw the posting for an Administrative Assistant position at Gilmour, I was immediately interested. I knew of the school’s strong reputation, its commitment to supporting
students, and its beautiful campus, but what resonated with me most was its Catholic identity. Catholic education has been part of my life from the very beginning, and those experiences helped form my values and the person I have become, it is truly part of my foundation. The role was originally to support the College Counseling team, and I was excited about the chance to work with students and be part of their college journey. Little did I know that my role would eventually expand to also supporting the Director of the Upper School and the Student Counseling team, but I welcomed the challenges and the opportunities.
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Are there particular moments or stories from your work in counseling or administration that stand out as especially meaningful? One particularly meaningful story that stands out to me is of a student I watched grow from her freshman year through graduation. When she first arrived, her greatest challenge was finding her place at Gilmour and feeling that she fit in. At the beginning, there were more lows than highs. But over time, with encouragement from her teachers and the support of the counseling team, she began to find her footing. As her confidence grew, she took an incredible step and started a group for students who shared similar feelings. It was inspiring to watch her turn a personal challenge into something that supported others. By senior year, she had grown tremendously, achieving success both in and out of the classroom. She was accepted into college with a generous scholarship and graduated with an impressive list of accomplishments. I continue to follow her journey today. She went on to earn her master’s degree in counseling and, most recently, her doctorate in school psychology. Seeing all that she has achieved is incredibly meaningful to me. I truly believe her experiences at Gilmour helped shape that vision and gave her the confidence and skills to pursue such remarkable accomplishments. How do you hope your work impacts students and the broader school community? I hope my work impacts students and the broader school community in a meaningful way. Some students may remember me as the “nice lady” in the administration hallway offering a water or a listening ear on a hard day. Other students may remember me as the one who gently reminded them to act appropriately or be their best. Regardless, everything I do is for the students — supporting their counselors, teachers and administrators so they can have a successful year. The same care, patience and attention I give students, I bring to our staff, teachers and administrators as well. Through my actions, hard work and prayers, I aim to help everyone in our community have a positive and meaningful school year, making a difference in small ways each day as I learn and grow alongside the students and my colleagues.
type of support they need can vary quite a bit. I often update records for the College Counseling office, supporting the student counselors with the many needs of their students, and occasionally assisting faculty with their various needs or preparing for school events. Once students begin arriving, the pace really picks up. At times I feel like I am directing traffic, as students come through our hallway for all sorts of reasons, and I am always happy to help guide them to the right person for assistance. What does Gilmour mean to you personally and professionally? Gilmour means a great deal to me both personally and professionally. Personally, it feels like my second home. I care deeply about the team I work with, and because we spend so much time together, our professional and personal lives naturally intersect. It is a community where I feel valued and supported, and where I see every day the care and commitment that goes into helping students grow academically, socially, and spiritually. Professionally, it’s a place that challenges me, where I have been able to expand my role and contribute in meaningful ways. Being part of a team that truly puts students first and works collaboratively toward a common mission makes coming to work each day rewarding and fulfilling. How do you approach supporting students, whether through college counseling or daily guidance? When supporting students, I try to understand where they are and what they may be feeling, so I can respond in a way that meets their needs. In College Counseling, I help guide students through their college journey by keeping track of their application information along with planning and supporting the events the counselors organize. These programs start freshman year and culminate senior year when all their hard work comes together. I am also there to help students troubleshoot any issues with applications or their online accounts, offering guidance and encouragement along the way so they feel supported and confident throughout the process. With the Counseling team, my role can be more personal and immediate, whether it is helping a student find the right grade-level counselor or being the first sounding board for a student having a difficult day. My “mom
skills” come out in those moments, and I try to offer support and guidance with patience and compassion, ultimately connecting them with their counselor. For me, supporting students is about combining practical assistance with caring presence, helping them navigate everyday challenges. Favorite memories from your time at Gilmour? My favorite memories at Gilmour span both professional milestones and personal moments. Professionally, one that stands out is the Class of 2007 graduation — the first class I had the privilege of working with. Back then, everything was done by mail, with no electronic submission of supporting documents, so seeing all of that hard work come together at graduation was an incredible sense of accomplishment. Experiencing a Gilmour graduation for the first time, I witnessed firsthand the beauty and tradition of the ceremony. It was so fulfilling. Personally, there are so many moments I cherish — celebrating engagements, weddings and the births of coworkers’ children, or simply closing out a school year and making it to the finish line with what I truly believe are the best teammates anyone could hope to work with. Those daily interactions and shared celebrations make Gilmour feel like a second home. How has working closely with the Upper School Director shaped your perspective on the school and your work? Where do I begin? Working at a school is unique. It is very different from working in a traditional business. There is the tactical side of managing a high school, but there is also the emotional side, which is just as important. As the main support person for the Director of the Upper School I have had the privilege of supporting seven directors, some more than once. My work has taken on a deep sense of meaning. It is not just about kids coming to school, it is about their growth both in the classroom and in life. The Director of the Upper School leads that journey, and I get to witness firsthand the care, commitment, compassion, work ethic, long days and difficult conversations that go into it. The work coming out of the office of the Director sets the tone, the standard and the outcome for the entire year, and it is not a role for the faint of heart. I am continually amazed and honored to play even a small part in that process.
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A
THREE SENIORS NAMED NATIONAL MERIT FINALISTS
After being named National Merit Semifinalists in September, Youran (Esther) Dai ’26 , Holly Hunter ’26 and Nathan Lindley ’26 applied for selection as National Merit Finalists. To become a finalist, the semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, and write an essay. After a review of their applications, Esther, Holly and Nathan were notified that they have been named Finalists, a distinction earned by less than 1 percent of seniors nationally! Of the students named Finalists, approximately 7,500 will receive scholarship awards.
Zach Berman ’26 and
co-anchor Jake Williams ’25 interviewing Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson at halftime of a Gilmour basketball game last year
Esther Dai ’26 Holly Hunter ’26 Nathan Lindley ’26
A RISING VOICE IN MEDIA Congratulations to Zach Berman ’26 , who was selected for this year’s Dazzle Awards Student Reporter Program. Zach was one of only four students chosen from 43 area high schools for this opportunity. The Student Reporter Program provides high school sophomores, juniors and seniors with the chance to learn directly from film and media professionals through classes, workshops and hands-on reporting assignments. Participants build interviewing and hosting skills, cover major arts events and receive behind-the-scenes access to professional production environments. The experience culminates in covering the Dazzle Awards PNC Red Carpet and Award Ceremony at Playhouse Square in May. Zach is deeply involved in media and the arts at Gilmour. He serves as president of the Digital Media Club, is the play-by-play analyst for GATV’s athletic programming and has performed in multiple Gilmour drama productions, showcasing his versatility as both a storyteller and a performer. This fall, he will continue pursuing his passion for storytelling at the University of Kentucky, where he plans to study pre-journalism.
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Hope in Action: Advisory Brings the Mission Theme to Life This year, Gilmour’s mission theme of hope has taken root in advisory in creative and intentional ways. Each advisor received a “Hope Chest” — a collection of activities, resources and simple tools designed to help advisors foster connection, gratitude and encouragement within their advisory groups. The kits themselves were assembled by members of the freshman class during their summer Mission Morning, making the project a powerful example of students creating hope for others before the school year even began. Inside the chests are resources that spark meaningful conversations and small acts of care — from affirmation prompts and gratitude exercises to instructions for handwritten “Hope Letters” students write to their future selves. Advisors have also been using everyday moments, even the tradition of sharing snacks during Advisory, as opportunities to build community and reinforce the spirit of hope. The Freshman Food Bank trips by advisory are a longstanding tradition. This year, however, the experience was intentionally connected to the mission theme of Hope, with advisory discussions before the visit and reflections afterward inviting students to consider how acts of service can restore dignity, strengthen community and bring hope to others.
A TIMELESS GAME, A LASTING LEGACY Mary Lynn Byrne, widow of Gilmour alum Thomas Byrne ’55 , generously donated her husband’s beautiful marble chess set to the school in his memory. The set now has a special place with the Chess Club, where students regularly use it during meetings and matches. It is a fitting tribute — a timeless game played on a timeless board — honoring Thomas’ legacy while continuing to bring members of the Gilmour community together.
Reflection from one of our freshmen after his Advisory’s visit to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank:
“We went to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, and we were making packages of food that would then be distributed to the seniors in the six counties they service. We completed nine palettes, and 360 packages total. That's 360 entire people who get to put off their food insecurity for a while. People like my Grandpa, who can barely walk or see, being able to get food to make it another day. That's as rewarding as it can get to me. And I get to know I was a part of it. That's what this was to me. Giving hope to those who had lost it, and truly living our mission and focus for this year.”
Thomas Byrne '55 and the Chess Club in 1954 Members of the Chess Club enjoying Mr. Byrne's chess set
Gilmour | SPRING 2026
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HAIRSPRAY A SHOW FULL OF HOPE (AND HAIRSPRAY!) We can still "hear the bells" — and the applause! In late November, the cast of Hairspray, made up of more than 50 students, faculty and staff (special shoutout to faculty/staff members Ms. McGrae, Mr. Fober, Mrs. Kenny, Doc T. and Mr. Pfundstein for taking on roles!), delivered a show full of hope and the courage to act, reminding us how the world could be. As Mr. Clark wrote in his Director’s Note, "The optimism in Hairspray isn’t naive. It is radical hope in action — the same spirit we encourage in our students as they dream of creating a more humane and just society."
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Scenes from the Lorraine and bill Dodero Center for Performing ARts
beetlejuice Jr. A SPOOK-TACULAR TIME ON STAGE The last weekend of February, the Middle School took audiences on a spirited trip to the Netherworld with their fantastic production of Beetlejuice Jr. From bold performances to impressive work backstage, this cast and crew, made up entirely of Middle School students, brought energy and creativity to every scene.
Bravo to our incredible performers and tech crew for a scream-worthy run!
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FOUR LANCERS EXPLORE THE POWER OF AI Four Gilmour students spent part of their fall exploring the future of technology through the Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence Bootcamp, hosted in partnership with Sherwin-Williams and College Now. The program brought together high school students from across Cleveland for four intensive Saturdays of hands-on learning, mentorship from industry professionals and collaborative problem- solving. Representing Gilmour were Daniel ’29 and Rachel ’29 Aderibigbe , Delaney Kilkenney ’27 and Duncan Nakhooda ’28 — a strong showing among roughly 20 students selected from schools across the region. Throughout the bootcamp, students explored emerging AI technologies such as generative AI and predictive modeling while applying those tools to real-world challenges. Working in teams, they developed capstone projects designed to address community needs — including a healthcare app to help track the progression of ALS and MS and a
GILMOUR SPEECH AND DEBATE: Finding Their Voice
Sanjeethi Anand ’27 received the OSDA/Christian Science Monitor Scholarship, and head coach Carol Ryan was named a finalist for OSDA New Coach of the Year. Additionally, two Gilmour students have qualified for the National Speech & Debate Tournament, to be held June 14–19 in Richmond, Virginia: Thomas Daly ’27 in World Schools Debate and Matthew Lewis ’27 in Congressional Debate. Four more students qualified as alternates for nationals: Sanjeethi Anand ’27 (Informative) Naya Hilal ’27 (Program Oral Interpretation) Izzy Jeckering ’29 (Original Oratory) John Mele ’29 (International Extemporaneous)
After a year of remarkable growth — including hosting its first speech and debate tournament on campus in more than 40 years — Gilmour’s speech and debate program is a rising force in Ohio competition. Fourteen Gilmour students competedagainstthetopprograms from across the state at the Ohio Speech and Debate Association State Tournament in early March and delivered an impressive showing. Matthew Lewis ’27 was named a State Finalist in Declamation, placing 14 th in the state in the tournament’s largest event. Thomas Daly ’27 advanced to the elimination rounds in Lincoln- Douglas Debate, finishing 22 nd in the state in the second-largest event. Eymarii Sivad-Allah ’27 earned 2 nd place in Spoken Word for her original poem, That Fine Line.
tool to assist psychiatrists in identifying potential signs of
depression, anxiety or suicide risk. For Rachel, whose interests include
robotics and medicine, the experience reinforced the
importance of understanding AI. “AI is the future,” she said. “Every- one will need to know how to use it.” Students left the program energized to continue exploring how AI can shape fields ranging from medicine to entrepreneurship.
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STUDENTS LEADING THE WAY IN SERVICE Shoutout to Valentina Di Censo ’26 , who partnered with two students from University School to launch YouthServe CLE, a student-driven service board connecting high school students with volunteer opportunities across Northeast Ohio. The organization was founded with a simple goal: make it easier for students to find meaningful ways to give back. Since launching, the group has built a network of students from seven area high schools — Gilmour, University School, Hathaway Brown, Hawken, Laurel, Twinsburg, Orange and Solon. Each month, they spotlight multiple local nonprofits on their social media and organize 3-4 volunteer opportunities for students to participate in together. In just 18 months, YouthServe CLE has partnered with organizations across Cleveland, including Another Chance of Ohio, the Thea Bowman Center, Random Acts of Kindness Everywhere, Kids’ Book Bank, the West Side Market and the Kosher Food Pantry. They have also hosted gatherings where students from across these schools come together to assemble sandwiches and prepare care packages for those in need. A remarkable example of student leadership in action — and a reminder that service can start with a simple idea and grow into something that brings an entire community together. Entrepreneurship: ThinkBIG! Summit Results Each year, the Veale Foundation hosts an online business plan competition open to high school students across Northeast Ohio. After reviewing more than 100 submissions, judges selected six finalist teams to present their ideas live at the thinkBIG! Summit on March 3, pitching in front of a panel of judges, local entrepreneurs and summit attendees. Among the finalists was Valentina Di Censo ’26, who competed alongside her YouthServe co-founders from University School. Following the live presentations, Valentina’s team was named the first-place winner in the Innovation Track, earning a $3,000 prize to invest in their project. YouthServe connects area high school students with meaningful service opportunities in their communities. Two additional Gilmour students were recognized in the competition. Brody Phillip ’26 and Evan Saline ’26 e arned Honorable Mention in the Small Business category for the business plan they developed for their company, Express Custom Wear, thanks to the mentoring of entrepreneurship instructor Ms. Kendall White. They also learned that they will be receiving a microgrant from John Carroll University for their business plan.
Students came together in Gilmour's Howley Commons to assemble 500+ PB&J sandwiches for area shelters, each with a handwritten note
Valentina and her co-founders accept their prize
Evan and Brody receive Honorable Mention
Gilmour | SPRING 2026
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Discovery in Action CATALYST STUDENTS PRESENT THEIR RESEARCH
At Gilmour’s 45 th and 46 th Catalyst Symposiums, students presented the results of months of hands-on scientific research conducted alongside professional mentors at active laboratories at leading institutions. The experience allows them to contribute to real research projects while developing skills in scientific inquiry, experimentation and presentation. The 45 th Symposium highlighted the work of Yuetong (Tinsley) Zhang ’26 , Ellie Zorska ’26 and Eva Savelli ’26 , who spent the summer conducting research in biomedical and genetic sciences. Yuetong (Tinsley) Zhang ’26 — Working with Dr. Zhu at Case Western Reserve University, Zhang studied Parkinson’s disease by investigating how a mutation in the VPS35 gene affects the accumulation of proteins associated with the disorder. Using immunohistochemistry techniques, she analyzed brain tissue in a mouse model to better understand how the disease progresses. Ellie Zorska ’26 — In Dr. Fang Chen’s lab at CWRU, Zorska synthesized gold nanobipyramids and tested them as contrast agents for optical coherence tomography imaging, exploring ways to improve noninvasive visualization of retinal ganglion cells for earlier detection of glaucoma. Eva Savelli ’26 — Working in Dr. Kristian Baker’s CWRU genetics lab (alongside Catalyst alumna Kendall Long ’23 - see College Corner on pg. 8), Savelli studied nonsense-mediated mRNA decay, a cellular pathway that prevents the production of harmful proteins. Using CRISPR gene editing in yeast, she created tagged proteins to help researchers study how key molecules interact within this process. At the 46 th Catalyst Symposium, Conor Tietjen ’26 , Esther Dai’26 and Charissa Baleskie ’26 presented the research they did over the fall semester focused on genetic disease, tissue regeneration and nerve repair. Conor Tietjen ’26 — In Dr. Mead’s lab at CWRU, Tietjen studied Neonatal Marfan Syndrome, helping validate a mouse model that researchers can use to better understand the disease and test potential treatments. Esther Dai ’26 — Working in Dr. Sikder’s lab at Cleveland State University, Dai worked to optimize hydrogel scaffolds used in regenerative medicine by adjusting polymer crosslinking to improve their structure and strength for repairing severe muscle injuries. Charissa Baleskie ’26 — In Dr. Uz’s lab at Cleveland State, Baleskie explored new approaches to treating peripheral nerve injuries, investigating how electrical stimulation on a graphene scaffold could transform stem cells into Schwann-like cells that support nerve regeneration. Together, their work reflects the spirit of inquiry and discovery that defines Catalyst — a signature Gilmour program that gives students the rare opportunity to contribute to real scientific research while still in high school.
Yuetong (Tinsley) Zhang ’26, Ellie Zorska ’26 and Eva Savelli ’26
Esther Dai ’26
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