Messmer Today - Fall 2024 Edition

Messmer Today Messmer High School | Milwaukee Wisconsin 20 24 F A L L Sing a New Song Unto the Lord: Messmer High School welcomes a new director to lead the gospel choir! A Bold Taste of Messmer Discover the highlights from Messmers inaugural open house event.

But what about you? Jesus Asked. Who do you say I am? Matthew 16:15 As Messmer turned 90 in 2016, we reminded ourselves that we are Founded in Faith and Rooted in Milwaukee. Now near the midpoint of our 99 th year as Advent nears, we look back with deep gratitude. Even as we peek ahead to Messmers 100 th anniversary, the calling to the daily work of the present dayour institutional vocationkeeps us grounded. This is the perpetual work of a Catholic High Schooleach student and each adult thankful for our gifts in responding to the call of our loving God. Our annual October class retreats reminded me of just how unique the Messmer experience is for our students. Our groundbreaking WinterM termeach full month of January, now in its fourth yearreinforces what a truly exceptional education Messmer High School brings to the heart of Milwaukees north side. In spirituality and practical skills, we provide Messmer students with positive challenges to discover their passions and talents. I am pleased to report that the integration of Messmer Saint Mary and Messmer Saint Rose into the Seton Catholic Schools family is complete, now united with twelve other Catholic elementary schools. We commend our fellow Catholic school educators at Seton for their uplifting work and look forward to welcoming Seton graduates to MHS for generations to come. Without Messmers bold initiative over the past 25 years, there would be no Saint Mary of Czestochowa nor Saint Rose of Lima alive and serving nearly 700 students today. To all of you in our Messmer community, you should be proud of this enduring legacy! Having returned Messmer to its core high school origins, our Board and committee members, faculty and administrationand other contributors to our Messmer communityhave worked on a renewal of our Mission, Values, and Vision. Our Board of Directors formally approved the document shared on page 4. As we complete this 99th year with great anticipation for the Class of 2025 and then Messmers 100 th year, I offer the culmination of this work with thanks to all and thanks to God. And thank you for your support of Messmer High School! Yours in Christ, Dr. Jim Piatt | President, Messmer Catholic Schools 2

Officers James Schubilske, Chair, Vice President and Chief Audit Officer, WEC Energy Group Brian Bulgrin, Treasurer, Partner, Deloitte & Touche, LLP Maggie Small, Secretary, Associate Department Administrator, Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Inc. Directors Hon. David Borowski, MHS 84, Circuit Court Judge, Milwaukee County Filippo Carini, MHS 83, Chief Operating Officer, United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County Dr. Kathleen Cepelka, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Retired, Archdiocese of Milwaukee William Coleman, President, Coleman & Williams, LTD. Anne Haines, Founder and Executive Director of St. Bakhita Catholic Worker Michael Jackson, U.S. Director Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, BMO Harris Bank, N.A. William Mahler, Investor and Independent Director Karen Molloy, MHS 81, Vice President and Treasurer, Northwestern Mutual Nelson Phillips, Office of Corporation Counsel, Milwaukee County Joe Vehec, Vice President, PNC Bank Conrad York, Marketing Consultant Emeritus Board of Directors Peter J. Salza, MHS 60, Honorary Chair, Attorney at Law Mikel Holt, Associate Publisher, Milwaukee Community Journal Alfred H. Mattacotti (Deceased), MHS 58, President, Milwaukee Plating Company Jeffrey Monday, Principal, Marquette University High School, Past Principal, Messmer High School Rev. Warren Sazama, SJ, President- Retired 2016, Marquette University High School Messmer Catholic Schools Board of Directors At Messmer, we work to close gaps by ensuring that every single minute of our instruction addresses a grade level state standard. Abigail Demeter, Assistant Principal In this issue Please donate now! 3 In Memoriam 14 Mission, Vision, Values 4 About the Cover Senior Cordero H. focuses intently as he drills and prepares a piece of wood for a project in carpentry class, showcasing his craftsmanship during WinterM. Planning Ahead 15 Campus Happenings 6 Highlights 5 Alumni Spotlight 11 Campus Ministry Moment 10 Alumni Events 12

Founded in Faith. Rooted in Milwaukee. Building the Community. Mission Messmer Catholic High School, grounded in the Gospel mandate to teach all, educates students to excel as ethical and faith-filled graduates who build righteous and peaceful communities. Values and Vision Faith We integrate faith in every aspect of our livesto know our Creator, ourselves, and our vocations. The God-given dignity of every person guides our formation of conscience, our engagement with culture, and our response to adversity. Knowledge We focus on academic excellence as critical thinkers, embracing the pursuit of eternal truth. Messmer graduates are innovative, relevant, and well-qualified to choose college, the workforce, or public service. Leadership We understand that integrity and servicein the example of Jesus Christare at the heart of leading and following. We seek purpose, act with compassion, and uplift others for the common good. 4

Highlights 45 students earned their driving instruction permit, granting them behind-the-wheel training in February 2024 Principal Shenora Jordan earned the Herb Kohl Principal participate in extracurricular clubs such as the Anime Club, Chess Club, and MHS Electrical Engineering Club 93% of students earned the All-In-Milwaukee scholarship (full tuition, room & board) 5 Seniors Messmer Catholic Schools Year End Statistics July 1 st , 2023-June 30 th , 2024 were inducted into the National Honor Society, up 14% from last year 21 students The Class of 2024 earned in scholarships $3.2 Million Leadership Award in 2023 Expense Percentages Program General & Administrative Advancement Donations by Source Foundations & Organizations Non-Alumni Individuals Alumni 5 Senior Retreat

The Future is Now at Messmer: Dr. Taylor Leads the Way in Computer Science & Video Game Design Messmer High School proudly welcomes Dr. Mark Taylor as the new Information Technology instructor for the 2024-2025 school year. With a strong computer science, programming, and video game design background, Dr. Taylor brings a rigorous and inspiring curriculum thats already pushing our Bishops to excel. A standout feature this year is the addition of coding. In the first few weeks, students advanced from learning coding basics to creating impressive digital projectsa testament to Dr. Taylors teaching and our students enthusiasm for mastering essential skills. From AP Computer Science to Game and Animation Development, Dr. Taylors classes offer Bishops hands-on experience in coding, problem-solving, and creativity. Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Messmer Girls Volleyball Team Unites Messmer High Schools girls volleyball team raised awareness of breast cancer in a match against Lake Country Lutheran. Donning custom all pink out shirts, the team honored breast cancer survivors. Inspired by Messmers tribute, Lake Country Lutherans coach purchased pink shirts for her players and staff. By uniting both teams in a touching display of solidarity, this game was an unforgettable moment transcending the game. A big thank you to our athletes, coaches, and fans for showing that the power of sports goes beyond competitionit brings communities together for a cause. 6 Student Designs Campus Happenings

Celebrating Excellence: Messmer High School 2024 Graduation On June 1st, Messmer High School proudly celebrated the Class of 2024s graduation, an event filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt memories. This year was especially meaningful for Principal Shenora Jordan, who joined Messmer as these students began their freshman year. Over four years, she has watched them grow, persevere, and succeed. Principal Jordan shared touching and humorous moments during the ceremony, highlighting her bond with the class. One memorable instance was when a graduate turned to her on stage and, with a grin, used her first name, confessing, Ive been waiting four years to do that!capturing the warmth and closeness at Messmer. Collectively, the Class of 2024 earned over $3-million in scholarships. In her address, Principal Jordan urged the graduates to carry Messmers values forward. With pride, she closed as she often did during morning announcements, fighting back tears as she said, I love you, and there is nothing you can do about it. Love wins, Messmer. I love this school! said graduating Senior Tavon. S. I will always be a Bishop! The ceremony concluded with cheers and applause. As the Class of 2024 enters the world, they leave with the knowledge and confidence to make an impact. GO BISHOPS! Graduations were also celebrated at Messmer Saint Mary and Messmer Saint Rose as the 8th-grade classes finished their grade school years. Over 47% of these students now attend Messmer High School. These schools, now operated by Seton Catholic Schools, have returned to their names of previous years: St. Rose of Lima and St. Mary Czestochowa. This year, the two schools serve over 700 students. I will always be a Bishop! Senior Tavon. S. 7

WinterM Preview! In January, Messmer High School goes into WinterM mode. WinterM is a mid-year term for twenty instructional days that gives students a chance to recover credit, participate in enrichment courses, take courses designed to reach grade level for some students, and/or earn certification courses such as welding, carpentry, CNA, and phlebotomy. Here are some of the incredible WinterM courses that will be offered in January 2025: CNA AFRICAN BRAIDING NAIL TECHNICIAN CARPENTRY PHLEBOTOMY TAEKWONDO 8 Campus Happenings

WinterM 2024 Experiences! 12 Messmer High School carpentry students, led by Tonda Thompson of She Slangs Wood, built convertible benches that transform into picnic tables, gaining hands-on skills in creativity, teamwork, and dedication. 27 Messmer students learned techniques in African hair braiding under the guidance of Robin Anderson and JuQuita Vance of R.A. Salon & Suites. Styles included cornrows, faux locs, Senegalese twists, crochet braids, wigs, Fulani braids, and Bantu knots. 5 Students completed a welding training program aligned with the American Welding Societys national standards and guidelines. Thanks to Andrea Bester of Cutting Edge, these students may feel inspired to pursue a career in welding. Let the Praises Go Forth! Messmer High School Welcomes a New Gospel Choir Director Messmer High School is thrilled to announce Mr. Bonito Leatherwood-Garrett, affectionately known as Mr. LG, as the new gospel choir director. Mr. LG brings a fresh and dynamic energy to the choir, inspiring students to push their vocal limits and reach new heights. They have a passion for giving God glory, he shared. The gospel choir performs at monthly all-school Masses. Students like Tymarius W. embrace the experience wholeheartedly. I wanted to sing but was a little scared of what my guys might say, Tymarius explained. Two of my best friends joined, and now Im having so much fun! Messmer is seeking donations to support the choirs growth, with hopes to increase rehearsal days, add choir robes, and purchase a new set of drums and other instruments. For gospel choir donations, click on the QR code and add gospel choir in the comment section. 9

Freshmen stayed on campus for a day of fun activities that helped them discover where they fit in as part of their new Messmer family. Peer leaders from the Junior class led the charge. Sophomores had a new partner with Marquette University Campus Ministry. They spent the day at Marquette University in the Alumni Memorial Union, Chapel of the Holy Family, bowling in the Union Sports Annex, and tours to the historic Saint Joan of Arc Chapel. The theme for this day of reflection was Imagination (Imagining a world of justice, faith, and discernment) and Cura Personalis (Care of the whole person). Marquette students and staff shared inspirational perspectives on life beyond high school. Juniors set off for a day of teamwork, fellowship, and discovering potential through outdoor rock wall climbing and high ropes courses at the beautiful YMCA Camp Minikani in Hubertus, Wisconsin. Seniors also returned to their beloved, annual, overnight retreat destination of Camp Minikani in Hubertus. Bonfire talks, fellowship, prayer, reflection and canoeing filled their days and night. All the Messmer High School retreats were well-needed, and deserved opportunities to develop old and new relationships with classmates and faculty in casual, faith-filled and fun environments. So many shared it was a needed mental break. The retreats operated in the spirit of our 2024-25 scriptural theme from Matthew 15:16: But what about you? Jesus asked. Who do you say that I am? Discovering the spirit of Jesus in one another is a great way to recognize the love and dignity that exists in Messmer and how students can learn to seek it out in the world beyond our school walls. Campus Ministry Moment The annual Messmer retreats were a huge success! Almost 500 students participated in grade-specific days of team building, character development, and faith formation. We realized that as a whole class, we have real love for each other. KJ I really enjoyed the bonfire, where we sat together answering questions on who we were, who we are, and who we want to be. It made me realize how we all go through similar things. EA 10

Meet Makayla Harris, a proud Messmer High School alumna from the Class of 2020 and a recent University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate. Thanks to Makaylas resilience and the support of the Messmer community, her journey was one of triumph. At Messmer, Makayla was an honors student, president of the National Honor Society, cheerleading team captain, and recipient of the Most Outstanding Student Award. She earned the All-in Milwaukee scholarship, which helped pay for her education at UW-Madison. Her accomplishments laid the foundation for her college success, where she made the Deans List, served as a Resident Assistant, completed four internships, and co-founded two organizations centered on minority empowerment. Makaylas academic path began at Messmer Prep (now St. Mary of Czestochowa) in fourth grade. Makayla credits her Catholic education as one of the reasons her academic success reached such heights. As she continues to carry the values she acquired at Messmer, today, Makayla is pursuing a Juris Doctorate at Barry University School of Law in Orlando. Makayla is excited to give back to the Messmer community by mentoring students and staff from afar. Although Ill be miles away, I look forward to supporting Messmer however I can. Alumni Spotlight Makayla Harris Although Ill be miles away, I look forward to supporting Messmer however I can. Makayla Harris Makayla Harris 11

Messmer Alumni Reunite: A Fall to Remember This Fall brought a wave of nostalgia to Messmer High School as alumni from 1969, 1974, 1979, and 1984 returned for school tours as a part of their reunion celebrations. Seeing alumni reconnect and reminisce was a joyful reminder of Messmers lasting impact. Each class celebrated and enjoyed time together around the city. The Class of 1974 gathered at Bluemound Country Club; the Class of 1969 met at Aliotos Restaurant; the Class of 1979 enjoyed Three Lions Pub; and the Class of 1984 reminisced at OSullivans, owned by alumna Sue Syvock (Rauen, 81). Michelle Watley (84) shared, It was wonderful reconnecting with classmates and Messmer. I was moved to hear about all the amazing things happening at the school and even saw my moms 57 yearbook. Stay connected with us! Visit www.messmerschools.org to complete an Alumni Profile. Click on Community, then scroll down and select Update your alumni profile. We look forward to seeing you at future events! It was wonderful reconnecting with classmates and Messmer. Michelle Watley (84) 12 Alumni Events Want to add a tour of Messmer High School to your reunion plans? Contact Erica Zdroik, VP of Advancement, at [email protected] Class of 84 Class of 74 Class of 69

Messmer Hosts Inaugural 2024 Open House: A Taste of Messmer Messmer High School proudly held its first Open House: A Taste of Messmer, showcasing its nearly 100-year legacy. The event was broadcast on social media, in addition, people heard Messmer students talk about the event via ads on V100.7 and Jammin 98.3. As a result, the event drew over 450-current and prospective students, families, and alumni to explore Messmers offerings, with Student Ambassadors guiding personalized tours. A lively vendor area featured businesses owned by Messmer alumni and organizations offering community resources. The food trucks along Capitol Drive added flavor, offering local favorites. One of the events highlights was the Ol-Skool vs. Nu-Skool alumni basketball game, organized by Walter Cullin (05), Vic Sloan (05), and Messmers boys basketball coach, Ben Hailey. The Nu-Skool team claimed victory, leaving the Ol-Skool team playfully asking, Wheres the oxygen? Vic commented, Congratulations on another successful event. This was a good look for Messmer. Walt added, The engagement was crazy! The atmosphere was electric! This was beautiful! With music provided by Jammin 98.3 the event celebrated Messmers strong community connections and commitment to student success. Messmers Annual Golf Outing Recap Messmers annual golf outing, sponsored by CG Schmidt and initiated by a group of dedicated alumni over twenty years ago, took place on June 10th at New Berlin Hills. The course was filled to capacity, and we were once again blessed with beautiful weather. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors and those who donated items for our raffle and auction. This year, we featured several unique items crafted by students from our carpentry class. 13

MAY THE SOULS OF THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED REST IN PEACE 14 1930 Phyllis Jones (nee Lechmaier) 39 1940 Marilyn Nevens (nee Dencker) 43 Catherine Hoeffler (nee Heger) 44 Constance Zander (nee Pier) 44 Betty Vanderpool (nee Gengler) 44 Walter Greis 45 John Heiden 48 Janet Pemper (nee DeBoth) 48 Clare Frami (nee Albert) 49 Marilyn Land (nee Baumann) 49 Patricia Cepress 49 Leon Heun 49 Ruth Hanna 49 1950 Diane Kirchen (nee Figlesthaler) 50 Bernice Gebhard 50 Anna Matuszek (nee Engeldinger) 50 Ruth Gardner (nee Hauser) 51 Patricia Pajunen (nee Geiger) 51 Thomas Bruders 51 Theresa Hansen (nee Janz) 51 Emily Kosso (nee Mojito) 52 William Kuhr 53 Ione Kohler (nee Straus) 53 Ann Schwartz (nee Beyer) 53 Maripat Shaw (nee Maolone) 53 Dennis Herbst 53 on May 24, 2024 Shirley Swiecichowski (nee Kleinhans) 53 Marguerite McGovern (nee Mitzi) 54 Robert Gorzek 54 Marlis Klemm (nee Schalewski) 54 Patricia Blastic (nee Grzeca) 54 Joseph Engel 55 Carol Kreider (nee Piaskowski) 55 Patricia Tester (nee Scholler) 55 Romain La Flex (nee Shuda) 55 Eugene Kealty 55 Frank Mayer 56 Dirk Sattler 56 Eugene Seifert 56 Michael OConnor 57 Mary Kolanko 57 1950 continued Robert Fehring 58 Alfred Mattacotti 58 Dorothy Schmidt (nee Pupeter) 58 Charlotte Lombness (nee Lathrop) 58 Christine Szyperek 59 Stephen Moker 59 Ronald Szymanski 59 Patricia Knickelbine (nee Zodrow) 59 1960 Carol Barwick (nee Cherne) 60 Kathleen Olson (nee v) 60 Richard Tomczyk 60 Thomas Gazzana 60 Karen Rufus (Riegler) 61 Joyce Duss (nee Tennies) 61 Susan Frerk (nee Verhey) 61 David Zadra 62 Colleen Hefter (nee Nystrom) 63 Genevieve St. Louis (nee Farley) 64 Robert Felder 64 Mary Koenigs 64 Theodore Corrao 64 Raymond Krupski 64 Jerome Cherubini 64 Carolyn Land 66 Richard Dick 66 Timothy Flahive 67 John Phelan 67 Barbara Martinko (nee Lukasavitz) 68 Monica Hendricks (nee Grimm) 68 Timothy Kubiak 68 Karen Bowen (nee Stenstrup) 68 James Romanowich 68 1970 Francesca Gordon (Ortiz) 70 Ronald MacCudden 79 Frances Straszewski (nee Merrill) 79 Richard Zinda 79 Teri Miller 79 Sciphio Scott 79 In Memoriam

Planning Ahead Join us! Messmer High School Fat Tuesday: Feast Before the Fast Tickets go on sale January 3 rd , 2025 Visit fattuesday.givesmart.com for more information JUNE 9 Save the Date! Messmer High School Golf Classic and Community Fundraiser Celebrate with us! Messmer is gearing up for its 100 th Anniversary Celebration in 2026. Stay tuned! What are Planned Gifts? Simply put, a planned gift is a donation made by a donor in the present and then gifted in the future, usually after the donor has passed. More often than not, these donations are incorporated into a donors will, known as a bequest, or in a trust. Please consider creating a lasting legacy through a planned gift to Messmer High School. For more information, please contact Erica Zdroik, VP of Advancement [email protected] MARCH 4 15 100 th Anniversary

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