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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