Saint Ignatius College Prep
November 2025 eNewsletter
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Schivarelli '63 Returns to Campus for Chicago Tribute
Saint Ignatius College Prep was buzzing with excitement as it prepared to welcome home distinguished alumnus Peter Schivarelli ’63 for a special Chicago tribute concert at Church of the Holy Family. Schivarelli '63 is the long-time manager of the iconic rock band Chicago. The concert was performed by the school's choir and orchestra and was a wonderful opportunity for the entire community to celebrate a legend and recognize the link between Saint Ignatius and music history.
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Kistner '68 Named Life Trustee at Loyola UniversityThe Loyola University Chicago Board of Trustees recently appointed William G. Kistner '68 as a Life Trustee. Kistner served on the Board of Trustees from 2013 to 2025. In 2005 he was the recipient of the Damen Award of the Quinlan School of Business and served on the Dean’s Advisory Board. His successful business career includes 14 years as vice president of Internal Audit at Northwestern Memorial HealthCare, following a distinguished 31-year career as a partner at Ernst & Young in Chicago. Click here for more.
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Malatesta '65 Volunteer Work Highlighted in Chicago Tribune
Charles Malatesta '65 was recently showcased for his volunteer work through the Ignatian Volunteer Corps, a national nonprofit that partners adults 50 years of age or older — many who are retirees — with organizations supporting people in need. Read more by clicking here.
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Serving Others in Sullana, Peru
This September, Meghan Martin '08, Colleen Martin '11, Ryan Martin '13, and Renee Johnson, parent of Trey '18, James '19, and Thomas ’21, joined VER International on a medical mission to Sullana, Peru. Over two weeks, the team helped provide vision screenings for 497 patients, funded 80 follow-up visits with a local optometrist, and supported 53 sight-restoring surgeries. Their work took place in Peru’s Piura region, where Pope Leo XIV once served as a missionary and bishop. “It reminded us what it truly means to be men and women for others,” said Meghan. For more information on VER International, please visit www.verinternational.org.
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Heineman '00 Launches Cafe & Solar Cell Consulting Office
Eric Heineman '00, CEO - Windfree Solar, recently opened a cafe/solar cell consulting office in Evanston. The opening festivities included Quin Kirchner '00 and his band performing, along with Tom Brophy '98 serving as DJ for the launch party. Click here for more.
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Cronin '18 Spotlighted in Loyola U. Business MagazineFor Mackenzie Cronin '18, pursuing an MBA at Loyola University Chicago’s Quinlan School of Business was about more than earning an advanced degree. It was a culmination of the Jesuit education that had shaped her personal and professional trajectory since high school. Click here for more.
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Former Saint Ignatius President Meets Pope Leo XIVHere is a recent Instagram post from former Ignatius President and current President of the Jesuit Conference, Fr. Brian Paulson, S.J.: It was a great privilege to meet Pope Leo XIV last Friday, along with all the Jesuit major superiors from around the world, along with members of our Curia community in Rome—100 of us. I told him I was from Waukegan, Illinois and his eyes lit up! His address to us is well worth reading for those interested in how the Jesuits are called to serve the church. Echoing Pope Paul VI and Pope Benedict, Pope Leo told us: “Today…the Church needs you at the frontiers, whether they be geographical, cultural, intellectual or spiritual. These are places of risk, where familiar maps are no longer sufficient.” See more by clicking here.
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Goel '23 Publishes Book on the Transformative Power of Listening
Shiv A. Goel '23 is a junior pre-med major and Presidential Scholar at Saint Louis University. He is the inaugural co-founder of the Lead Listening Society at Saint Ignatius and the founder of the second collegiate chapter of the organization at SLU. Together with fellow members, Shiv co-authored and published “Breathe Then Listen: 15 Student Accounts on Breaking the Sound Barrier,” a compelling collection of personal stories that illustrate how deep, intentional listening can transform relationships, strengthen communities, and cultivate empathy across differences. Click here for more.
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'88 Alumni Take London by Storm
The spirit of camaraderie was evident when a group of Saint Ignatius alumni traveled together in September 2025 for a trip to London. Those in attendance included: Claire Noonan '88, Tricia Geraghty '88, Jennifer Burke '88, Dan Elkin '88, Joellen (Monnelly) Mendoza '88, Kim Schiel '88 and Isabel Scharmer '88. Fred Krol '88 planned the trip, but unfortunately was unable to join.
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Alumni Rendezvous at Sox Park
The bond forged at Ignatius College Prep in 1968 proved timeless on a recent, sun-drenched afternoon, as alumni Bill Collins, Jerry Ryan, and John McCarthy gathered for a late-season White Sox game. As the White Sox clinched a victory, the longtime friends agreed that nothing beats good company, perfect weather, and a decisive win on the South Side.
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Alumni Reconnect in Chicago
John Dillon '99, Chris Scanlon '99, Chris Neil '99 and Andy Johnson '99 recently spent time together back in Chicago, including a visit and tour of campus. The group can be seen here along with Chris Scanlon's fiancée, Erika Mouritsen.
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Tracz Brothers Launch Sonarly Sleep AppRafal '02 and Chris '08 Tracz created Sonarly, an app designed to help newborns and their parents get better sleep. The idea is based on entrainment - the natural synchronization of rhythms between parent and child. Sonarly captures a parent’s heartbeat and turns it into a soothing soundscape personalized for their baby. The app is currently in beta testing. Those interested in learning more can contact Rafal at rafal.tracz@gmail.com or Chris at chris.tracz@gmail.com.
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Donate to the Archives
We invite alumni, parents and friends of Saint Ignatius College Prep to contribute to our school’s rich history. Do you have an object, document, or story that helps tell the story of Saint Ignatius? Use the QR Code to organize your potential donation. Please review our collection scope philosophy before you make your donation.
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Alumni & Friends Receptions in Washington & Boston
A heartfelt thank you to each of our alumni who joined us for the East Coast gatherings last month. Your presence brought warmth to each of the "mini" reunions. It was a great chance to reconnect, share stories, and witness the enduring spirit of our community.
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Fall Reunions - 10.11.25
October 11 was filled with joy and memories as alumni gathered for an amazing Fall Reunion. The evening was a testament to enduring friendships and shared history, celebrating significant milestones for several graduating classes. The Class of 1995 marked their 30th anniversary, while the Class of 1990 proudly acknowledged their 35th. Further back, the Class of 1985 toasted their 40th reunion, and the Class of 1980 celebrated an impressive 45 years. Leading the golden anniversary was the Class of 1975 who commemorated their 50th reunion.
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Friends of Joe Golf Outing Raises More than $173,000
The 27th annual Friends of Joe golf outing in support of the Joseph E. Liptay '83 scholarship at Saint Ignatius College Prep was a fantastic success thanks to your participation, love and support. There were a record 64 golfers and a terrific crowd for the after-party. The evening of friends gathering was highlighted by a visit from Saint Ignatius Class of 2019 graduate and former Joe Liptay '83 scholarship recipient, Brian '19. You can read his speech here. It really hit home how your support directly impacts the lives of these young people with such great potential.
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FORMATION AND MINISTRY - ADULT
Come Pray with UsAll are welcome to join our school community in prayer on the first and third Wednesdays of the month with other parents and alumni. We will gather on Google Meet from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. If you are interested, email Gail Krema for the Google Meet link.
All-School Masses and Guest Coffees
Please know that you are always welcome to join us for our All-School Masses and Guest Coffees. It is a wonderful way to meet other parents, alumni, and guardians.
Additionally, all are welcome at the 7:30 a.m. daily Mass in the fifth-floor Cuneo Chapel. Stop by the front desk for a visitor's pass.
Mark Your Calendars
Saturday, December 6 - "Darkness & Light: An Advent Morning of Reflection"
Saturday, February 21 - Lenten Morning of Reflection - "Lent Fully Alive: Walking with Jesus Toward the Abundant Life*
* Held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A small $5 offering is suggested.
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Please join the Women's Society on Thursday, November 6 for our annual Holiday Shopping Event. This event will take place in Tully Hall from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Nearly 40 incredible vendors will showcase their unique treasures, offering everything from exquisite gifts to delightful treats. It's the perfect opportunity to mingle with friends, discover something special and kick off the holiday season.
We will also be collecting materials to donate to a local women's shelter. Please bring items such as diapers, toiletries and bed sheets to help women in our community.
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11.13.25 - 14th Annual Business Society Luncheon
Join us at the Union League Club
11:00 - 11:45 a.m. - Networking
12:00 - 1:00 p.m. - Luncheon & Awards
2025 Award Recipients:
Alumni Award for Excellence in the Field of Business - Gregory J. O'Leary '80
Award for Excellence in the Field of Business - Michael Fassnacht
Presidential Award for Distinguished Neighborhood Business Partner - Wintrust Community Bank
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Calling All Wrestling Alumni!
The alumni wrestling meet will be on Tuesday, November 25. The meet starts at 5:00 p.m. in the 3rd-floor gym. Pizza and beverages will be served afterwards. Please contact matt.brady@ignatius.org to RSVP or with any questions.
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We are delighted to introduce the Gloriam 2026 Co-Chairs, a dedicated group of parents whose enthusiasm and commitment embody the spirit of the Saint Ignatius community.
Frowene and Elliott Rodgers, parents of Elliott ‘23, Moses ‘24, and Solomon ‘27;
Chiara (Marcheschi) '94 and Dan Wrocinski, parents of Annabelle ‘27; and
Heather Zimmerman and David Gaito, parents of Miles ‘26, Tessa ‘28, and 8th grader Alasdair.
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Please Join Us In Congratulating...
Katherine Ryan '15 on her engagement to Michael Kendrick. They will be married next year at Saint Clement Church.
Matt Brady '07 and his wife, Leigh Anne, on the birth of their second child, Delaney Mary Brady, born on September 23rd.
Dana (Garber) and Michael Jones ‘07, who welcomed their son, Patrick James, on September 10, 2025. “Big” sister Elizabeth is delighted with her new role! Cousins Addison and Michael Haller, children of Caitlyn’05 and Luke Haller ‘05, are also delighted with Patrick’s arrival.
J.R. Snyder '06 and his wife, Capucine, welcomed their second daughter, Margot Josephine Snyder, on September 12, 2025. Big sister Eloise Bea Snyder (2 years 4 months) is already helping out so much.
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ALUMNI
Edward F. Downey '48, uncle of Richard Sikes '72, Mark Sikes '74, the late James Sikes '80, Ginger Sikes Yarrow '86, Paul Sikes '91 and Alexander Longo '27
Col. Mark D. Franklin, U.S.M.C.(Ret.) '79
Stephen R. Hajek '65 (Dec'd 5/23/2025)
Timothy J. Irving '73
Dr. W. Scott Nekrosius '63, brother of Donald X. Nekrosius '66 and uncle of Margaret Nekrosius '03
Charles A. Penna '52 (Dec'd 3/6/2024)
FAMILY OF ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF THE SCHOOL
John M. Geshkewich, father of Kristin Geshkewich Hussmann '87 and Norah Geshkewich O'Brien '91
Donald Gilardi, grandfather of Katharine Gilardi '24 and Jack Gilardi '26
Michael J. O'Hara, son of Nora Connelly O’Hara ’89, grandson of the late James V. Connelly (former Saint Ignatius College Prep coach and faculty member 1967 - 2007) and nephew of Patrick J. Connelly ’77, Peter G. Connelly ’79, Francis P. Connelly ’81, Timothy Connelly ’84, Dr. Kevin J. Connelly ’85, Thomas E. Connelly ’86, Mary Connelly O’Malley ’87, Lt. Col. Terence M. Connolly ’91 and Christine Connelly Fallenstein ’02
Cesar A. Velarde, uncle of Adam J. Velarde, II '22, Hadley A. Velarde '25 and Grey Velarde '27
Robert F. Zeigler, grandfather of Katharine Gilardi '24 and Jack Gilardi '26
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Click Here to See Current Job Openings Available at Saint Ignatius College Prep, including Prefect of Mission.
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Saint Ignatius College Prep
Click here to learn about the Alumni Director role we are looking to fill.
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Employment Opportunity at Chicago Jesuit AcademyClick here to learn about their open math position for the 2025-26 school year.
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Employment Opportunity at Christ the King Jesuit College PrepThey are looking for an Asst. Dir. Development. Click here for more.
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If you know of any alumni news or if you would like to nominate someone who is a "woman or man for others" for our Alumni Spotlight, "Beyond the Wolves Den", please contact us.
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Saint Ignatius College Prep, a Jesuit Catholic school in the heart of Chicago, is a diverse community dedicated to educating young men and women for lives of faith, love, service and leadership. Through outstanding teaching and personal formation, the school challenges its talented student body to intellectual excellence, integrity, and life-long learning and growth. Inspired by the gospel of Jesus Christ, this community strives to use God's gifts to promote social justice for the greater glory of God.
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1076 W. Roosevelt Road Chicago, IL 60608
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