KENNEDY John F. Kennedy Catholic School
2 0 2 4 - 2 0 2 5 ANNUAL REPORT
Fall 2025
The Kennedy Family Tree
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Values & Vision
Dear Kennedy Family,
2024-2025 Board of Directors John F. Kennedy Catholic School Mr. Taylor Cera, Class of 2007
Family is what so frequently brings every one of us together whether it be for a birthday, wedding, funeral, Christmas, Easter, or any special holiday or event. It shapes our world view, how we think, how we feel, and how we grow as persons of God in everything we do. As you delve into this edition of the Kennedy Magazine, we take a look at family on several levels, but especially families that got their start, through marriage, here at Kennedy. The Kennedy Family, while not always as biological or sacramental as the six couples’ stories wonderfully shared in these pages, is at the heart of who we are. It is where our young men and women are formed in Gospel values, steeped in tradition, and equipped with a first-class education and a Christian moral center for the challenges of the contemporary world. As we head into this fall, our 60th year of operation here at 2550 Central Parkway SE, things are truly on an upswing.Enrollment continues to trend upward for the first time since 2018 with over 600 students enrolled in grades K-12. This past May we had our largest class in over a decade walk the stage at Robins Theatre receive their diplomas. We saw successes on the fields and courts with highlights of the football team getting back to their winning ways, a new all-time points leader in basketball in Nick Ryan ‘25, and our Boys Golf Team earning their third consecutive DIII State title. We also head into this year equipped with our completed strategic plan, Today. Tomorrow. Together. This plan is no small feat as we took feedback from several hundred current parents, students, faculty, staff, and alums to develop a comprehensive vision on furthering the mission of Kennedy in the focused areas of academics, advancement, Catholic identity, enrollment, facilities, finance, governance, and student life. This plan is already being used to guide out annual goals to better meet the needs of our students and pave a bright future for our school community. One of the major observations I took away from our strategic planning process is how loyal and supportive the Kennedy family is, a foundation of strength in our community. Setting this new course is something that will undoubtedly unite alumni back with the school in some exciting opportunities in the coming months I hope you find this edition of Kennedy Magazine most enjoyable. The Kennedy community has a lot to be proud of in our current students and alums. A special thanks to all those who have generously donated to Kennedy over the last fiscal year and listed in our Annual Report. Your support keeps the mission alive, lets our faculty do the important work they do in the classroom with more resources, and helps all our eagles soar ever higher into the future!
Father Chris Cicero, Class of 2001 Mr. James Coates, Class of 2012 Mr. Sam Covelli, Class of 1971* Dr. Lindsey (Brodell) Dolohanty, Class of 2002 Mrs. Rachel Hrbolich, Class of 1988 Mr. Anthony Iannucci, Class of 1965 Dr. Steven Jones** Mr. Michael Klaben, Class of 2017 James D. Pipino, Class of 1978 Mr. William Pituch ** Mr. Anthony Rossi, Class of 1984 Dr. Sanjay Sheth, Class of 1993 Mr. Stephen Simunich, Class of 1973 Mrs. Tricia (Tempesta) Valent, Class of 1990 Mr. Donald Welsko, Class of 1974 Dr. Paul Wright * Emeritus ** Ex-Officio
In Christ’s peace, William G. Pituch William G. Pituch, President
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Inside KENNEDY John F. Kennedy Catholic School
The Kennedy Family Tree 14
FEATURE
FALL 2025
Upper Campus (6-12) 2550 Central Parkway SE Warren, Ohio 44484 P: 330-369-1804 • F: 330-369-1125 Lower Campus (K-5) 3000 Reeves Road Warren, Ohio 44483 P: 330-372-2375 • F: 330-369-2465 Facebook @warrenjfk (Upper) @jfklc (Lower) @JFKEagleAlumni Twitter @warrenjfk @JFKEagleAlumni
Instagram @warrenjfk
@jfkeaglealum1964 Mr. William Pituch President
Mrs. Alyse D. Consiglio Upper Campus Principal Mrs. Jacquelyn Venzeio Lower Campus Principal Father Christopher Cicero ’01 Chaplain Mr. Al Gregos ’78 Athletic Director Mr. Mark Komlanc Dean of Students
Caption for the inside cover photo: All in the family. Our 2025 Court was rich in alumni legacy tradition. Pictured L to R: Saumya Sheth (Sanjay Sheth ‘93), Santino Esposito (Patrick Esposito, Jr. ‘91, Patrick Esposito, Sr. ‘71, Deborah Repasky Esposito ‘72), Brianna Lewis, Henry Phillips (Chad Phillips ‘97, Jillian Rossi Phillips ‘97, Jeff Rossi ‘71, Judith Cech Phillips ‘64), Hannah Myers, Preston Geracitano, Celia LaFuria, Julian Bolino (Carla Darak Bolino ‘89), Shayna Massacci (Dante Massacci ‘87, Shibani Sheth Massacci ‘89) and Andrew LaPolla.
Mr. Andrew Lenz Dean of Academics
DEPARTMENTS
Ms. Molly Mokros ’96 Director of Advancement Mrs. Judi LaPolla
4 Alumni Journal 8 The Kennedy Experience 14 The Kennedy Family Tree 22 2024-2025 Annual Report 30 Blue Pride
Director of Enrollment Management Mrs. Jillian (Rossi) Phillips ‘97 Director of Communications and Alumni Relations
Kennedy Magazine is distributed for free to alumni, parents, and friends of the Kennedy community. Comments or questions can be directed to Jillian (Rossi) Phillips ’97 at jphillips@warrenjfk.com. Please note, we make every effort to include all news and notes shared with the communications office throughout the school year. . Mission: Educating leaders of courage, integrity and dedication in service of God and to the world. Vision: John F. Kennedy Catholic School will be the most innovative college preparatory school and family community that develops faith filled leaders for our Church and world.
Editor: Mrs. Jillian (Rossi) Phillips ’97 Art Direction, Design, Printing: SCP Group
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Alumni Journal The Kennedy Family was pleased to honor John Guarnieri as our 2025 John D. Gillen Golden Eagle Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. He served as commencement speaker for the Class of 2025 in May.
2025 Golden Eagle - Mr. John Guarnieri ’76
of the following organizations: Leadership Development Division of AWMA, Distributors Education Foundation, American Wholesale Marketers Association, and the Ohio Wholesale Marketers Association where he also served as Chairman of the Board in 2010. His community involvement has been a tremendous asset to the Mahoning Valley. John has worked with both Saint Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church and Trumbull Country Club. He has served on the Board of Trustees and as Chairman of the Board at United Way of Trumbull County and Trumbull Regional Medical Center and is currently Chairman of the Board at the Trumbull Metropolitan Housing Authority. John has been a constant friend to Kennedy
After graduating from Kennedy in 1976, he graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1980 with a BS in Business Administration as well as a Master’s degree in Business Administration in 1981. John began his professional career at NCR Corp. and then moved on to ADP Corp. He was named Vice President/Co-Owner of Albert Guarnieri & Co. in 1985 and served until 2018. He then became the Operations Manager of Gummer Wholesale until 2020. John has been instrumental in his chosen industry, serving on the Board of Directors
over the years. His generosity to the school has benefited our Annual Appeal, “Just For Kicks” Live & Silent Benefit Auction and the Kennedy Endowment Fund. He is a familiar face at sporting events, cheering on the Eagles during all seasons of competition. He and his wife Jodi have three children, Kristen ’05, Brian ’08 and Kelli ’11. We thank John for his commitment to our school.
Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026 Announced: Chris Columbus ’76 Honored
Chris Columbus ’76 was included in the newest group of entertainment professionals to receive stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame by the Walk of Fame Selection Panel of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. These honorees were chosen from among hundreds of nominations and ratified by the Hollywood Chamber’s Board of Directors. “We are excited to announce the newest selections of 35 esteemed individuals who will be enshrined onto the Walk of Fame as part of the prestigious Class of 2026. These talented individuals have made significant contributions to the world of entertainment, and we are thrilled to honor them with this well-deserved recognition. Join us in celebrating their achievements and legacies as they take their place among the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame” stated Peter Roth, Chairman. After graduating from Kennedy in 1976, Chris studied film at NYU and launched his career in the mid-1980s as a screenwriter, penning the scripts for classic adventure
the Wizarding World, directing the first two entries in the franchise: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001) and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002). He is also a co-founder of the production company 1492 Pictures.
films like Gremlins and The Goonies . He transitioned to directing with Adventures in Babysitting (1987), but achieved worldwide commercial success by directing the holiday staple Home Alone (1990) and the Robin Williams hit Mrs. Doubtfire (1993). Columbus solidified his place in modern cinema by establishing the look and tone for
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Courage, Integrity, and Dedication Alumni Award
Photo Caption L to Right: Laurel Wilson ’13, Katherine Spond, Madeline Wilson Spond ’10, Elisabeth Stanislaw Wilson ’82, Mara Wilson (Junior High School faculty and Track and Field coach).
We are proud to announce Mrs. Elisabeth Stanislaw Wilson as our 2024 Courage, Integrity, and Dedication Alumni Award recipient. This award was established in celebration of the entire Class of 2020 and is given to a graduate who lives our motto each day to the benefit of the Kennedy Family. Read more about Elisabeth here: I was born and raised in Warren, Ohio, where I attended John F. Kennedy Catholic Schools for twelve years. The halls of JFK became a second home filled with life lessons, friendships, and countless memories that would influence my life profoundly. I always loved school, reading, being creative, and working with children. I wanted to help others grow and reach their full potential academically and socially; being an educator was one of the best ways to directly support young people. Kennedy prepared me for Villanova University where I majored in English and earned my education degree. After college, I moved to Columbus to attend The Ohio State University and began teaching
eighth grade language arts in Westerville. Patrick and I were married and within two years we decided to start a family. My husband, Patrick, worked as an assistant attorney general, and when he decided to switch to private practice, there was no decision about the best place to work and raise a family… Warren, Ohio! I established myself at Lakeview Middle School and taught seventh grade for the next thirty plus years. In addition to teaching, I enjoyed coaching volleyball, tennis, and track. Beyond school and family life, I logged many hours reading, painting, running, working out, and golfing. Life has come full circle, and I am thrilled to be back at JFK. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle!!! I believe God led me here for a reason! Blessed Sacrament, St. Mary’s and JFK all contributed to shaping me into the person I am today. I am forever grateful to those special teachers who supported and encouraged me, and now it’s my turn to give back to the community I love so much. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention
Mr. Hoover and his inspirational literature lessons and valuable tips on writing; he greatly influenced my decision to become an ELA teacher! My greatest accomplishment remains raising four motivated, hardworking, caring children with my husband who I met at JFK. Madeline, Laurel, Mara and Liam have all selected careers that truly make a positive difference in the lives of others, and we are very proud of each of them. We sent our children to JFK because we believe in a strong education with academic rigor and Catholic values. Kennedy interweaves God and family into the school day, while teaching the necessary skills, encouraging leadership, and molding the entire person. Family is the heart of our home, and it continues to be loud and messy with four generations of activities, support and love. Thank you Elisabeth, our 2024 Courage, Integrity, and Dedication Alumni Award recipient. This recognition is given to a graduate who lives our motto each day to the benefit of the Kennedy Family.
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Alumni Journal Special Recognitions Anthony Mongelluzzo Memorial Golf Scholarship
Anthony A. Mongelluzzo ’04 passed away in March of 2021. Anthony was an avid golfer, had a great sense of humor, and was a friend to anyone he met. He was a loving uncle, brother, and son. Friends and family gathered to celebrate Anthony’s life by doing what he loved the most: golfing. The outing was a dual celebration of life and fundraising to create a scholarship for a graduating golfer at Kennedy. Donations made in Anthony’s memory totaled nearly $10,000 and a scholarship was created in his name. The 2025 award was given to senior Taggart Carfangia, a member of the 2024 DIII Golf State Championship team.
Taggart Carfangia ‘25
The Peter and Lorene Simunich Excellence in Education Award. The Peter and Lorene Simunich Excellence in Education award was made possible through a generous gift from Roseann Simunich ‘75 and Steve Simunich ‘73 in memory of their parents and in celebration of the good work of our faculty. The $500 award is given annually to one high school teacher who has demonstrated excellence in the classroom and provided a first-class educational experience for our students. The recipient was nominated by and voted for by our senior high students. Together, we thank the Simunich Family for their continued and unwavering support of John F. Kennedy Catholic School and celebrate our 2025 recipient, Mr. Matthew Green.
In Memory Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed , through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Alumni
Mr. Christopher Bernard, Class of 1983 Mr. Patrick Byers, Class of 1974 Mr. Thomas Culler, Class of 1964 Mr. Richard Fetsko, Class of 1956 Mrs. Brenda Ott Gombos, Class of 1979 Mr. David Grabosky, Class of 1980 Mrs. Margaret Harrington Hyden, Class of 1954 Mr. Thomas Kozosky, Class of 1966 Mrs. Deborah Davin Nalbach Class of 1969 Mr. Frank Nannicola, Sr., Class of 1953
Mrs. Esther Tatalo Nicastro, Class of 1966 Mrs. Connie Hake Obremski, Class of 1972 Mr. Mark Pearce, Class of 1972 Mr. Dan Perrine, Class of 1969 Mrs. Julia Mussalow Pissini, Class of 1975 Mr. Louis Rafferty, Class of 1970 Mrs. Carlene Dimauro Ross, Class of 1963 Mr. John Saxon, Class of 1973 Mr. Nicholas Stoian, Class of 2004 Mr. Lawrence Tripodi, Class of 1970
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Frank A. Nannicola, Sr. passed away peacefully at home in Florida on Thursday, August 14, 2025. He was born May 11, 1935, the son of Phyllis (Notarantonio) and Armando“Herman”Nannicola. Frank graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1953 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University in 1959. He also served in the Air Force Reserves for five years. In 1961, Frank partnered with his father to start Nannicola Wholesale Co. in his garage on Bonnie Brae SE in Warren, Ohio. Two years later, they
Class of 2005 20th Reunion Friday, November 28, 2025 Memorial Mass in memory of Matt Reese and Chelsey Morganstern St. James Church, 5 pm 2532 Burton Street, Warren, Ohio 44484 20 Year Reunion Celebration Barrel 33, 6:30 pm 8208 East Market Street, Warren, Ohio 44484 No ticket required, kindly RSVP via email to Angelene.cicero@gmail.com Saturday, November 29, 2025 JFK High School tour, 10 am Class of 1976 50th Reunion Friday June 5th Class Mixer, Sunrise Inn, 5-9 pm 510 E Market St, Warren, OH 44481 Saturday June 6th Tamer Win Golf Course Golf Scramble, Shotgun Start 9:30 am Arrive at 8:45 am JFK High School tour, meet at JFK Office, 3:45 pm Reunion Mass & Memorial for Deceased Classmates 4:30 pm JFK Chapel Celebrant Fr. Ron Nuzzi Reunion Dinner Trumbull Country Club, 6 pm Class of 1966 60th Reunion Save the date for July 30 & 31, 2026 Upcoming Reunions:
purchased a building on Youngstown Road which became the company’s long-term home. Nannicola Wholesale was among the first discount stores in the region to offer novelties, toys, carnival supplies, party goods, wedding items and fundraising products. In 1970, Frank installed the iconic clown sign in front of the building, which became a well-known landmark in Warren. In the 80’s, his advertisement “Nannicola, Nannicola, Nannicola”became a famous jingle never to be forgotten. As the business grew, its focus shifted toward distributing and supplying Bingo products to charities. In the ’90’s, Frank’s three sons joined the company, and together they expanded the business into one of the largest bingo distributors in the country at their Youngstown location. In 2008, Frank closed the party store in Warren. He began to spend his time between Florida and Ohio with Janet, his wife of 59 years. He recently celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by many loved ones who enjoyed honoring his life. Frank loved visiting with all his family, friends, classmates, employees and customers. He had a big heart and a personality to match. His smile was amazing, his handshake unforgettable and his dedication to family and work was extraordinary. Survivors include his wife, Janet (Imburgia) Nannicola; three sons, Armand (Andrea), Charles (Lynn) and Frank II; five grandchildren, Cassandra, Frank, Mia, Armand, Jr. and Romero.
Celebrations The class of 1975 came home to celebrate their reunion this summer and the Class of 1968 had a wonderful 75th birthday party. They all had outstanding attendance and each put their own unique spin on the party. We love helping classes connect; take advantage of our social media and monthly alumni eNewsletter to get the word out! Contact Jillian (Rossi) Phillips ’97 for more information at jphillips@warrenjfk.com.
1975
Photo Caption L to Right: Seated: Karen (Kanche) Racz, Bill Young, Cecelia (Kerns) Pipes, Sue Harnichar, Fran (Bocan) Frantz Standing: Mary Alice (Byers) Meacham, Ralph Meacham, Tom Wilson, Cathy (Liepold) Humphrey, Richard Rizzi, Marie Smith, Walter Brandt, Mike Rossi, Steve Pabin
Photo Caption L to Right: Seated: Rita Sartorio, Judy (Hudock) Fusco, Colleen (McGuigan) Neff, Mike Dezsi Standing: Larry Fusco, Rosemary Chomos, Joe Pecorelli (guest), Carol Ficeti, Greg Machak
1968
1968
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The Kennedy Experience
eGlass interactive boards are a significant enhancement to Lower Campus learning. They significantly boost student engagement and foster a stronger teacher-student connection. Unlike traditional whiteboards or even standard interactive whiteboards where instructors have to turn their back to the class, eGlass is a transparent, illuminated glass writing surface with a built-in camera. This technology captures the teacher’s face, gestures, and writing in the same frame, which is then projected for students. This unique feature allows the teacher to maintain constant eye contact and use non-verbal cues while writing, creating a more personalized and interactive “one-to-one” experience. eGlass High Tech Interactive Board Installation
100 New Chromebooks to Start the School Year! The delivery of 100 new Chromebooks to our Lower Campus represents an investment in modernizing the learning environmentandpromotingdigitalequity. This significant technology deployment is important because it enables the transition to more personalized and collaborative learning, giving young students individual access to educational apps, multimedia resources, and real- time project collaboration, all of which are essential for developing 21st-century digital literacy skills. Furthermore, for the teachers, the Chromebooks’ simplified management and integration with platforms like Google Workspace are vital for differentiated instruction, allowing them to more efficiently customize lessons, track student progress, provide instantaneous feedback, and ultimately foster greater student engagement and improved learning outcomes.
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LOWER Campus
New Look for Lower Campus
Fifth grade and kindergarten were the first to receive their new desks, and our other classes will soon follow! A very special thank you to the St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish Apostolate Men’s group and the Kennedy family and facility team for assembling!
We are also proud to show off new paint in our main hallways and the original classrooms in the north end of the building, as well as an update to the outdoor playground border and surface. In partnership with St. Teresa of Calcutta, the Covelli Gymnasium was outfitted with new lighting and paint.
Enriching Eagles
After School Enrichment is back! We believe these programs are vital to a child’s education. The five-week program allows for improved academic achievement, enhanced social and emotional development, increased physical activity, and a broad opportunity to explore different interests. We partnered with OH Wow!, a local STEM-based children’s museum that encourages independent thinking
through interactive exhibits and EDUtaining programs. Also featured are art, cheer, crafting, basketball foundations and coding. Lower Campus students also have the chance to participate this fall in the Parochial Cross Country League.
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The Kennedy Experience
The Class of 2025 Congratulations to the Class of 2025 graduates who were offered over $10.7 million in collegiate scholarships with an average of $214,000 per student. Eighty-six percent of the class were accepted to a four-year college including University of Notre Dame, The University of Alabama, University of Pittsburgh, Boston University, Villanova University, Clemson University, Rochester Institute of Technology, Virginia Tech University and the University of Michigan.
VALEDICTORIAN: Ethan Laslo Notre Dame University
VALEDICTORIAN: Amy Sweeney Boston University
SALUTATORIAN: Riley Curd John Carroll University
LEGACIES - 2nd Generation
LEGACIES - 3rd Generation
Ian Odille Renee Sherry - Class of 1989
Enzo Cantalamessa Enzo Cantalamessa – Class of 1992
Addison Odille Renee Sherry - Class of 1989
Michael Rossi Nicole (Mitolo) Rossi - Class of 1998 John Rossi - Class of 1998 Rocky Mitolo - Class of 1976 Cindy (Toy) Mitolo - Class of 1976 Michael Rossi - Class of 1968
Nicolas Ryan Allen Ryan - Class of 1989
Dominic Ryan Allen Ryan - Class of 1989
Avery Petillo Sam Petillo - Class of 1987
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Upper Campus
SOAR Service Club - Serve Others And Rise
In its third active year, SOAR (Serve Others and Rise) solidified its position as the largest student organization on campus, demonstrating a profound commitment to community engagement. The club’s dedicated membership of nearly 100 students contributed an impressive 1,320 service hours across 36 different service opportunities. This year’s efforts supported a wide range of community partners, including St. Vincent de Paul of Northeast Ohio, the Dorothy Day House, Shepherd of the Valley, Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership, the Youngstown Blue Coats, and numerous area parishes.
Advisors Mrs. Darla Plant Mrs. Charlene Morrow Mrs. Judi LaPolla
2024-2025 Student Officers Francesca Bolchalk, President Brianna Lewis, Vice-President Danny Naddour, Treasurer Grace Anderson, Secretary Chloe VanVlack, Junior High Rep
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The Kennedy Experience
This spring, the Upper Campus celebrated the Annual Father John-Michael Lavelle Day of Service. This initiative was created in 2017 to serve our surrounding community and supporting parishes. The event was renamed in honor of Father John-Michael Lavelle for the constant and thoughtful ways he gave of his time and talent to enhance the experience of Kennedy students as Director of Faith Formation. It is our pleasure and honor to serve our neighbors in his honor. Houses volunteered at sites including St. Vincent dePaul-Warren, Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Animal Welfare League, Boyd’s Home, Harriet’s Cupboard and St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish, as well as helped with projects around both of our Upper and Lower Campuses. Students at each site did everything from yard work and deep cleaning to moving boxes, whatever was needed! Annual Father John-Michael Lavelle Day of Service
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IT’S A WIN-WIN
Support Kennedy and pay less in state taxes.
IT’S NOT TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE If you are an Ohio taxpayer and donate any amount to the fund, you receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit against your 2025 state tax liability (up to $750 per individual and $1500 for married couples filing jointly). It works whether you expect a refund or owe. All donations fund scholarships for Kennedy students grades K-12, which makes our school and the LOCAL community we serve stronger. SCAN to learn more and give by credit card/electronic check or via US mail. QUESTIONS? Need step-by-step help? Contact Molly Mokros, Director of Advancement, at 330-369-1804 or mmokros@warrenjfk.com. IT’S EASY TO DO! GOOD SAMARITAN Scholarship Fund
Online: Scan the QR code and make your donation securely online - or - download and mail in your form!
Donations must be made by April 15, 2026 to be eligible for a 2025 state tax credit.
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Cover Feature At Kennedy, we proudly embrace the idea that our school is more than just a place of learning—it’s a family.“We are Kennedy. We are Family.”This heartfelt sentiment, which we began sharing years ago, has become deeply ingrained in every member of our community. Whether classmates, teammates, coworkers, or friends, everyone embraces the idea of belonging and connection. We’ve often thought about the graduates who have chosen Kennedy time and time again, for their own children and for the generations that follow. Reaching out to families spanning decades, we see firsthand how Kennedy is more than an institution—it’s a family that truly cares, supports, and grows together. We are grateful to the following couples for taking the time to reflect on their experiences at Kennedy—the history they have been a part of and how it has shaped them. Each family approached our questions from a different perspective, yet the underlying themes were remarkably similar, highlighting the lasting impact of their journey at Kennedy. The Kennedy Family Tree
What truly makes Kennedy stand out from other schools is its distinctive culture, which balances structure with freedom. The teachers don’t just instruct; they inspire students to reach their full potential. The environment encourages growth academically, creatively, personally, and professionally. One of the most notable aspects is how the school makes learning fun and engaging — students genuinely look forward to each day, not just for the lessons, but for the vibrant atmosphere that encourages connection, joy, and development. Among the many impactful teachers we encountered,
Mr. Hoover’s English classes left a lasting impression. His approach went beyond teaching literature — he challenged us to think deeply, connect themes to real life, and express ideas thoughtfully through respectful discussion. This skill of effective communication has benefited us immensely in all areas of life. When we think about our own experiences at Kennedy, we especially cherish the memories of the friendships and moments that shaped us. Seeing our daughter Rosie thrive at Kennedy, especially through her relationship with Mrs. Brooke (Binko) DeJulia ’97, fills us with pride and joy. Kennedy gave us so much, and it’s a privilege to pass that legacy on to the next generation.
Kim (Sylvester) & Carmen Altobelli | Class of 2010 Rosie ’27 and Isabella ’ ’41 Growing up, Kennedy played a pivotal role in shaping who we are today. The school taught us to think outside the box, encouraging us to venture beyond conventional paths and explore our unique talents. Instead of being confined to a single way of thinking, we were motivated to apply our skills to real-life situations, which gave us the confidence to be creative problem-solvers. This mindset has served us well beyond high school, empowering us to lead in our professions and navigate challenges with an open, innovative outlook. Alongside the emphasis on creativity, Kennedy also instilled in us core values of professionalism and kindness. Since graduating, we have strived to stay connected to the Kennedy community and to each other. Despite the distance and the passage of time, we continue to nurture those friendships and cherish the memories that bind us. Our pride runs deep, knowing that our children will be the fourth generation of Kennedy students in our family. We’ve sought ways to give back, volunteering as assistant coaches for volleyball and softball teams, participating in fundraising events like golf outings and dinners, and volunteering at the lower campus.
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The Kennedy Family
Tricia (Tempesta) & Greg Valent | Class of 1990 Gregory ’18, Thomas ’23, Patrick ’23 Greg credited Kennedy with instilling a culture of excellence and a strong belief in the importance of perseverance and striving for success. Whether in academics, extracurriculars, or life in general, he was taught to never give up, and those qualities helped through challenging times. When Greg faced a cancer scare in his late 20s, the faith, courage, and persistence he developed at JFK saw him through. On a personal note, Kennedy also gave him the love of his life— Tricia Tempesta Valent. Over the years, Tricia has remained actively involved in various capacities within the Kennedy community. She assisted with seating and donations for the“Just for Kicks”Auction for many years, served as President of the Moms’ Eagles group while their sons played football, and volunteered for the Casino Night fundraiser. She is also proud to currently serve on the Kennedy Board of Directors. Greg served as the K–8 Athletic Director for 12 years and coached elementary basketball for many of those years. Working with the younger students was incredibly rewarding, and he still misses those days. He has also served as President of the Goaliner’s Football Boosters since 2016 and coordinates their annual golf outing, which has raised over $100,000 for the junior high and varsity programs. Tricia and Greg agree it’s impossible to choose just one favorite class because each one holds special memories. Tricia loved English with Mr. Moldovan, who would sing “You’re So Vain” to her every day, and also enjoyed typing with Mr. Rowbotham and biology with Mr. Johnston. She will never forget the mischievous boy who sat behind her in biology and kept moving her chair—who later became her husband! Greg’s favorite was English with Mrs. Judy Prebish in 9th and 12th grade. Although some questioned her tough methods, she inspired him to study English in college. Her emphasis on “reading between the lines”continues to serve him well in his
career in finance. Both experiences highlight how impactful and memorable Kennedy classes can be. The Valents would love to see Kennedy develop a state-of-the- art sports complex, complete with lights, that students can truly
call their own. The friendships and memories built through athletics last a lifetime, and it would mean so much for our students to experience that sense of community right here at home. It would be a dream come true to see future grandchildren play on a true home field, maybe even on blue turf! Additionally, their hope is that all future parents of JFK students have the same magical experiences they did— attending state championship games, tailgates, casino nights, and auctions. These events foster lifelong friendships and create a true sense of family within the Kennedy community. Their boys always felt genuinely valued by the entire Kennedy community—whether by the administration, teachers, coaches, or even the school secretary, who has a special way of making every student feel seen. They especially cherish the lifelong friendships they formed at the lower campus, bonds that have continued to grow well beyond graduation. Recently, several of Patrick ’23 and Thomas’s ’23 football teammates drove six hours to Annapolis, Maryland, to watch Patrick play with Rice University against Navy, which perfectly exemplifies the strong, lifelong connections they built during their 13 years at JFK. These relationships and memories have left a lasting impact, making their experience at Kennedy truly special.
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Cover Feature
Marc emphasized the importance of the people—his closest friends are still from Kennedy, and although they are spread across the country, they stay in touch almost daily and reconnect whenever possible. He expressed how these lifelong friendships are a true blessing. He also appreciated the teachers who made learning both fun and challenging while remaining fair and committed to student success. Woodworking with Mr. Karenbauer pushed him out of his comfort zone, leading to him creating a table that his parents still display proudly in their hallway. English classes with Mr. Dimitrovich junior year and Mr. Hoover senior year were among his favorites. Sports played a significant role in shaping their Kennedy experience. Sports were an integral part of Marc’s experience, having grown up as a ball boy for his father’s varsity basketball team and then playing all four years himself, under coaches he now considers friends. Participating in basketball and baseball at competitive levels allowed him to challenge himself and grow in many ways. James spoke highly of the teachers’ passion, especially Mr. Shilling, Mr. Boyle, and Mr. Gillen. These educators were committed to their students’ success, offering extra help and detailed explanations to ensure understanding. James appreciated how teachers and students recognized that class time was for learning, but also encouraged students to enjoy being kids before heading off to college. His favorite sports were tennis and soccer, where he developed and improved his skills under dedicated coaches, making those experiences particularly meaningful. Luann and Dennis also asked their boys what they would love to see happen at Kennedy in the future, and they agree that the school can work to provide greater exposure to different career paths. They believe it’s important to help students become more prepared to choose their future destinations before they are forced to discover their interests only after stepping into college. To achieve this, they suggest bringing in CEOs, CFOs, and other VIPs to speak with students about their daily experiences in the business world, offering real-world insights. Additionally, they recommend hosting seminars for students to explore various professions and gain valuable guidance for their future careers.
Luann (D’Amico) & Dennis Rossi | Class of 1972 Craig ’02, Marc ’06, James ’11 Denny remembers that, being a relatively small school, he felt a strong connection to his classmates, teachers, and coaches, and those bonds have continued throughout their adult lives. Luann echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that Kennedy truly is a family—more so today than when they attended. She highlights the innovative change the administration made years ago, mixing students from different grade levels into homerooms, each named after a saint of the Catholic Church, to foster a sense of community and belonging. The practice of pairing senior students with kindergarteners helps create a warm, inclusive environment where everyone feels like part of a larger family. It’s also heartwarming to see students of all ages attending sports and social functions together, like Trunk or Treat, further exemplifying the strong, familial atmosphere that Kennedy cultivates. Luann loved her math classes with teachers like Sr. St. Martha, Sr. Mary Jean, Sr. St. Monica, and Dennis Zolciak, because they challenged her and sparked her interest in the subject. Their dedication inspired her to become a math teacher herself. During high school, she realized that math wasn’t easy for all students, which motivated her to teach in a way that ensures every student finds some success—her goal was for them to truly “get it,” not just “get through it.” Denny’s favorite class was Don Andres’s history class, where he made the subject enjoyable and looked forward to the daily “Current Event” discussions. Both memories highlight how passionate teachers at Kennedy motivated and shaped their futures. Denny and Luann asked their boys what they loved most about Kennedy, and their responses highlighted the diverse experiences that made their time there special. Craig particularly enjoyed the woodshop class for seniors with Mr. Karenbauer, loved seeing his cousins in the halls every day, and cherished Mrs. Prebish’s story about the Christmas tree losing all its needles. He also loved tennis, soccer, and their coaches, as well as the ski club trips and experiences.
16 John F. Kennedy Catholic School
The Kennedy Family
Gina (Steadman) & Jim Coates | Class of 1985 and Class of 1984 James ’12, Angelene ’13, Jacob ’17, Chloe ’22 We credit Kennedy for truly preparing us for life after high school by fostering a love of learning and emphasizing the importance of continuing our education. The school gave us the confidence and courage to take those next steps into college. Our teachers encouraged us to develop strong study habits, guided us through a challenging curriculum, and taught us how to manage our time effectively. Kennedy also instilled in us the values of hard work, perseverance, and determination— qualities that have helped us reach our goals. Since graduating, Jimmy has continued to give back to JFK by being an active board member for several years. We still attend sporting events and participate in the annual auction whenever we can. We make it a point to give our time, talent, and treasure to support our alma mater whenever possible, remaining deeply connected to the school community. What sets Kennedy apart from other schools is the genuine care everyone shows—teachers, students, and staff alike. There’s a true sense of family at JFK, where everyone supports one another. The rigorous homework and assignment load prepare students with the essential tools they need to succeed in college while fostering resilience and discipline.
Our favorite class was Mrs. Prebish’s English class, where her tough approach was balanced by her deep care for our readiness to write at the college level. Mr. Moldovan’s
English class was also a favorite—his great sense of humor made learning enjoyable. I remember once he jokingly asked Jimmy to take his car to get washed during class, which added some fun to the day. Looking ahead, we would love to see enrollment continue to grow while Kennedy stays at the forefront of technology and innovation. Remaining relevant and excelling in academics, athletics, and facility development are vital for continued success. It’s essential that Kennedy keeps evolving to inspire future generations—just as it did for us. Our children tell us they loved forming lifelong friendships and feeling like they were always surrounded by family. They appreciated being able to express their faith freely and cherished the class retreats and traditions that filled JFK with so much meaning. Athletics and school spirit also created wonderful memories for them, and they take pride in representing their school with blue pride.
These made us laugh…
On a personal note, I’d probably also like to apologize to Mrs. Ben Daali for convincing the entire class to release bouncy balls during her lesson at the same time. Although it was pretty funny watching her swiftly collect them… and never give them back…I think we can all agree it was well-deserved payback for keeping her on her toes. - Kim (Sylvester) Altobelli During our retreat with Fr. Terry at a ski lodge, a group of my friends and I decided to play a prank. We set the clock ahead to 6:30 am when it was really only 1:00 am. When the alarm went off, poor Fr. Terry got up and took his shower, completely unaware. We were terrified to tell him the truth! Needless to say, he wasn’t too happy with us. We said a quick prayer - and went right back to bed. - Jim Coates
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2025 Feature
Kennedy Receives State of Ohio Grant for Facility Upgrades
The Kennedy Family was honored to welcome Ohio State Representative David Thomas and State Senator Sandra O’Brien this fall for a tour of our Upper Campus. We were able to demonstrate the numerous upgrades to our building using the State of Ohio Facilities Improvement Grant awarded in 2024. The upgrades center on crucial facility improvements, beginning with an electrical system upgrade to ensure the entire building can safely and reliably support modern technology and equipment, which is foundational for all subsequent technical and educational enhancements. Next, providing classroom furniture for all science classrooms was vital for student comfort, engagement, and collaborative learning across the science curriculum. The most significant renovations targeted specific learning environments: The Chemistry and Physics Lab renovation was extremely important as it directly impacts safety and functionality. Lab tables were resurfaced, new hardware (gas jets and faucets) were installed, new chemical-resistant epoxy flooring was laid, and new desks were added, making the lab safer and more conducive to complex experiments. Finally, the Biology Classroom renovation was equally important for modernizing the space, which involved the resurfacing of the demonstration area and countertops with new hardware (gas jets and faucets), installing new tables, replacing the old carpet with
chemical-resistant epoxy flooring, and adding flush- mounted floor outlets, all of which have created a safer, cleaner, and more flexible environment for biological studies and demonstrations. This grant has made a significant difference for our students and their educational experience. We are proud to be good stewards of these crucial funding opportunities.
18 John F. Kennedy Catholic School
Feature
Exploring History and Culture: Students Travel to England and France
From June 10-20, 2025, a group of six Kennedy students embarked on a transformative EF Tours trip to England and France, led by Mrs. Judi LaPolla and Mrs. Jacqueline Venzeio. This ten-day journey provided an exceptional opportunity for students to engage with history, art, and two European cultures, extending classroom learning into the real world. The adventure began in London, where students explored iconic sites, gaining a firsthand appreciation for British culture and history. A highlight was an excursion to Windsor, which offered a look into royal heritage. Next was a stop in the city of Winchester and a tour of Winchester Castle, built by William the Conqueror. The castle was once the seat of power of medieval monarchs and is the site of the iconic Round Table. The group then moved on to France via a six-hour ferry ride from Portsmouth where our students mingled with other students from all over the world. The focus shifted to WWII history with visits to the Normandy beaches. Students paid their respects at an emotional visit to the American Cemetery in Coleville, explored the strategic cliffs of Pointe du Hoc, and reflected on the D-Day landings at Arromanches. This experience offered a powerful and moving connection to global history that can’t be found in a textbook.
The journey continued with a stop at the breathtaking medieval island monastery of Mont-Saint-Michel, followed by a tour of the walled city of St. Malo and its famous Emerald Coast. These sites showcased diverse architectural styles and rich regional histories.
The final leg of the trip took the group
through Chartres before concluding with three inspiring days in Paris. In the City of Light, students immersed themselves in world-class art and historical monuments, including a Seine river cruise and tour of the Fragonard perfume factory. This educational tour was a resounding success, fostering independence, cross-cultural understanding, and a deeper appreciation for history. The students represented our school
with maturity and enthusiasm created
lasting memories while broadening their global perspectives. They now
understand just how big our world is and look forward to future exploration.
www.warrenjfk.com 19
Thank You
2 0 2 4 - 2 0 2 5 ANNUAL REPORT
20 John F. Kennedy Catholic School
Annual Report
$50,000 - $99,000 Kennedy Society Mr. and Mrs. Patrick ’68 and Catherine (Kittle) Norton ’68 $25,000 - $49,999 Presidential Society Mr. Andrew Bayman ’82 Guardian of the Mission ($10,000 - $24,999) Mr. George Shuttic ’69 and Ms. Mary Joy Pigozzi In memory of Mr. Oscar Crawford Legacy Club ($5,000 - $9,999) Mr. and Mrs. John and Mary Jo Dugan - Friends Mr. and Mrs. Gavin and Annette (Covelli) Ford ’67 Mr. and Mrs. Michael ’88 and Joy Misocky Mr. and Mrs. E. Jeffrey ’71 and Carol Rossi Mohawk Club ($2,500 - $4,999) Mr. and Mrs. Dennis ’72 and Luann (D’Amico) Rossi ’72 The Dennis and Luann Rossi Family Donor Advised Fund Mr. Michael Rossi ’68 Mr. and Mrs. Peter ’58 and Mary (DiLoreto) Rossi ’58+ Eagle Club ($2,000 - $2499) Mr. Daniel Seikel ’91 Honor Club ($1,000 - $1,999) Mr. Jay Hays ’94 Dr. and Mrs. Thomas and Darlene Jones - Friends The Thomas and Darlene Jones Family Trust Father John Michael Lavelle - Friend Mrs. Molly (McGuire) Lieberman ’74 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas ’88 and Lynn Norton The Thomas and Lynn Norton Family Donor Advised Fund Mr. Mark Trevelline ’73
In an effort to reflect current donations so the community has a clearer sense of the annual philanthropic giving that is coming into the school formally, we have decided to move our lifetime giving numbers/giving society numbers to online only. They can be found online at www.warrenjfk.com. Your time, talent, and treasures help to advance Kennedy’s mission and allow us to provide our young scholars with a quality college preparatory Catholic education. Please know that every effort is made to present the Annual Report accurately and inclusively with gifts received between 7/1/2024 and 6/30/2025. We apologize for any omissions.
Matching Gifts Pursuing a company-matching gift from your employer may be the most dynamic way to help our school and increase the impact of your gift. Kennedy has been very fortunate to benefit from the generosity of wonderful national, regional, and local groups who willingly match their employees’ philanthropic efforts. We are very grateful to the donors who pursue these gift-matching opportunities. Ask your human resource department about gift-matching at your company. A special thank you to those who participated in the #iGiveCatholic day of giving in 2024. This initiative inspires faithful stewards to “Give Back and Give Catholic” on GivingTuesday, a global day of generosity and kindness. The mission of #iGiveCatholic is to unite Catholic communities and donors throughout the country to express their generosity in support of the organizations that have helped to shape our lives of faith…our parishes, schools, and ministries. Thank you to the following individuals and families who helped us to raise nearly $4,000 in one day!
Key: Board of Directors ** Annual Day of Giving Donor # Deceased +
www.warrenjfk.com 21
Annual Report
Organization The Andersons Inc., Matching Gift JFK Home and School SCRIP Program Blue and White Club ($500-$999) Mrs. Alicia (Antolini) Cook ’83 # Mrs. Frederika Baytos Huber ’66 Mr. John Boyle ’82 Mr. Conrad Daugherty ’67 Mr. Carmen DeChristofaro ’00 Ms. Suzanne Harnichar ’68 Ms. Rachel Hrbolich ’88** Mr. and Mrs. James ’66 and Bernadette (Massacci) Keating ’66 Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey ’69 and Carol Kurdilla Mr. and Mrs. John Landolfi ’82 The John & Christina Landolfi Family Donor Advised Fund Reverend John Lody ’54 Mr. and Mrs. Brian ’82 and Christine (Makosky) McCue ’82 Mr. and Mrs. Mark ’81 and Nannette McNally Mr. Daniel Minotti ’94 Mr. and Mrs. William and Rachel Pituch - Friends of Kennedy # Mrs. Lisa (Saxon) Reed ’87 Mr. and Mrs. Anthony ’53 and Marilyn (Fuller) Rossi ’54 Mr. Richard Steines ’80 Mr. Daniel Ujczo ’94 Mr. Donald G. Welsko ’74 Ms. Jane Zerbi ’85 Purple and Gold Club ($250 - $499) Mr. and Mrs. Vito ’60 and Patty Ciminero
Mrs. Teresa (Fishter) Frantz ’71 Mr. John Guarnieri ’76 Mrs. Barbara Hamilton - Friend In honor of Michelle Manzo Trizano-Ortiz ‘76, Linda Manzo Welch ‘80, and in Memory of Karen Manzo Reynolds ‘83 Mr. and Mrs. Christopher’81 and Noreen Heltzel Mr. Kim Johnson ’82 Mr. and Mrs. Raymond and Donna Makovec - Friends Mr. Victor Marchese ’66 Rev. Thomas J. McCarthy ’54 Mrs. Patricia (Guarnieri) McClerin ’74
Mrs. Martha Ann (Tecca) Delpizzo ’62 Mr. and Mrs. Michael DiCenso - Friends Mrs. Annette (Tatalo) Drummond ’76 Mrs. Mary Lou (Steines) Edwards ’60 Mrs. Donna J. (Demarco) Evans ’58 Mrs. Beverly Fittipaldo - Friend The Grabowski Family - Friends of Kennedy # Papa and G-Ma Green - Friends of Kennedy # Mr. Christopher Guanciale ’89 Mr. and Mrs. Michael ’58 and Susan Guarnieri Mrs. Cyndi (Zakrajsek) Hawkes ’83
Mr. Michael Onder ’62 Dr. David A. Orsinelli ’75
Mrs. Sylvia (Hladky) Hoso ’57 Mrs. Rose (Teubner) Hyde ’74
Ms. Roseann Simunich ’75 Mr. Stephen Simunich ’73 Mr. John Swinehart ’04 Mr. Donald Vera ’66 Patrons Club ($100 - $249) Dr. Thomas Armitage ’73 Mrs. Abigail (Rossi) Bartlett ’00 Mrs. Margaret (Shaw) Bednar ’69
Mr. Mark Iammarino ’79 Ms. Valeria Jesionek ’82 Mrs. Colleen (Janosik) Jones ’87 Mr. Don Karl ’67 The Komlanc Family - Friends of Kennedy # Dr. and Mrs. Jeff and Christie LaFuria - Friends of Kennedy # Dr. and Mrs. Ken & Judi LaPolla, Madeline ‘14, John ‘16 # The Laslo Family, Ethan ‘29 & Emma ‘29 # Mr. Gary Lazor ’82 Mrs. Pamela Lubich - Friend Mr. Gregory Machak ’68
Ms. Cecile Berardo ’66 Mr. Richard Bonini ’73
Mr. and Mrs. James Boyle - Friends Jack ‘28 and Bobbi ‘30 Burrows # Mrs. Debra (Shushereba) Cafferty ’75 Mr. and Mrs. Ken and Kim Cash ‘87 # The Ceraolo Family - Friends of Kennedy # Mr. Dino Ciabattoni ’80 Reverend Christopher Cicero ’01** Mr. Gregory Clark ’65 Dr. David D’Amore ’70 Dr. John Damiani ’79 Mrs. Nancy M. (Vennitti) DeGood ’61
Ms. Mary Claire Mahaney ’72 Mr. and Mrs. James ’69 and Donna (Fialko) May ’69 Ms. Nancy L. Meacham ’63 Mr. Ted Moran ’72 Mr. Roger Moten - Friend Dr. Raymond Noe ’76 Mr. Jerome Nypaver ’71
Dr. Ronald Crates ’65 Mr. John Discerni ’79
22 John F. Kennedy Catholic School
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