T H E N E W S L E T T E R O F M M I P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

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MMI conducted its 120th Commencement Exercises on May 24, as seniors were awarded diplomas by Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III ’82, chairman of MMI’s Board of Directors.

This year’s graduating class of 37 seniors amassed more than $4.9 million in merit scholarships and awards. The 2012 graduating class also attained an average SAT score of 1719, several hundred points above state and national averages.

The commencement address was delivered by Maggie Mistal ’91, president and chief executive officer of MMM Career Consulting. Through her career coaching business, Mistal works with clients to help them find employment that is ideally suited to them. She has appeared on CNN 12 times. Mistal was previously the career coach for Martha Stewart Living Radio and hosted her own nationally syndicated radio show for six years on SiriusXM called “Making a Living with Maggie.” She answered listener calls and also interviewed numerous celebrities to inspire her audience to create their dream jobs.

“You haven’t just learned proper grammar or a new language or how to master calculus, you now know how to learn. And you will continue learning and evolving your entire lives. Knowing how to learn makes you adaptable and will make you successful in any career you choose,” she told the graduates.

Mistal continued, “From here on out, as MMI alumni, your lives and careers will present bigger, more exciting and more rewarding

opportunities because of the foundation built here. No dream is too big or goal too bold for an MMI graduate to achieve.

“Think of an activity or project you’ve been involved with at school. The kind of thing you just loved doing … loved the people around you … and loved being there until the work got done. That’s how you want to feel when you’re following your passion,” she said. “I find we all know what our passion really is. And what I’ve learned coaching thousands, is that your dreams align perfectly with what the world most needs you to do.”

Part of Mistal’s message to the graduates focused on “Make it here, make it anywhere,” a theme she had engraved on a brick leading to the new Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center.

During commencement exercises, valedictorian Paul Brasavage told his fellow graduates, “Through the discipline and structure we have learned at MMI, we can now engage in collegiate studies, become experts in our fields of study, and challenge ourselves to answer the world’s toughest problems. The Class of 2012 has learned that education is realizing that there is so much that is unknown, but that ‘the more you know, the less you do not know.’

“MMI is a preparatory experience. Through it, we are able to answer three important

37 students graduate from MMI

See COMMENCEMENT, page 6

The Class of 2012

Maggie Mistal ’91 delivers the commencement address.

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MMI Today is the official newsletter of

(570) 636-1108(570) 636-0742 (fax)mmi@mmiprep.org (email)www.mmiprep.org (Internet)

MMI Preparatory School154 Centre StreetFreeland, PA 18224

From the Head of School

All the best,

Thomas G. Hood Head of School

Thomas G. Hood – Head of School William A. Shergalis, Ph.D. ’58 – President Emeritus Joseph G. Rudawski – President Emeritus

Greetings from MMI,

Thirty-seven great young people graduated on May 28 and joined the ranks of MMI alumni. As we celebrated their many significant accomplishments, we were reminded this is just the beginning of all the great things we can expect from them. They will face many challenges in the world they will inherit: global financial crises, slow economies, a myriad of diseases that must be cured, engineering problems that must be solved to make our lives easier and more fruitful, and issues we don’t yet recognize. All these problems must be addressed by this next generation. Their preparation for this responsibility began at MMI. We know they have much left to learn, but we know they have bright futures and can make a difference in our world.

Now summer is upon us. For the faculty and staff at MMI, that means the pace slows down and they get a chance to relax and recharge for the coming school year, which is less than six weeks away (sorry, teachers). Summer also allows time for pleasure reading. Another independent school leader recommended Champlain’s Dream by David Hackett Fischer to me. It is the story of Samuel de Champlain, the 16th-century explorer who mapped much of eastern Canada and established the first settlement at what is now Quebec City. It is an interesting story of determination and personal passion. A passage in the epilogue struck me as particularly relevant to what we are doing with our students at MMI.

We want our graduates to have prévoyance. Accordingly, our curriculum is broad and challenging. We require our students to work with increasingly complex questions that don’t necessarily have one answer, just like the problems they will face as adults. Our curriculum, in addition to annual exposure to math, science, and the humanities, also includes classes in music and art because studies have shown that these specialties help build creativity and mental agility. To solve complex problems, our graduates will have to call on all the topics they studied to develop solutions. Our alumni have demonstrated that an MMI education does just that. Our alumni have an unmatched record of success. We are working hard to ensure our current students carry on that legacy into the uncertain world they will inherit and inhabit.

We believe we are helping to equip our students with prévoyance in the hope that they will live lives full of purpose and meaning. The world is not perfect. We need MMI alumni to help solve the many complex problems we face. I am confident this latest group of graduates will do just that.

Enjoy the rest of your summer.

“Prévoyance” was the ability to prepare for the unexpected in a world of danger and uncertainty. It was about learning how to make sound judgments on the basis of imperfect knowledge … Mainly it is about

taking a broad view of projects of large purpose, and about thinking for the long run.

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Students display Open House projects

Alyssa Triano, Megan Kost, and Annika Wessel display their project, “1950’s Housewife.”

Eric Degenhart demonstrates his project, “Volcanoes.”

Joseph A. Turri ’45 and Barbara Sowers listen to Olivia Minzola explain her project, “The 3 Purposes of Writing and the Writing Process.”

MMI held its annual Open House on Sunday, April 22, for students to display their research projects. All MMI students demonstrated and explained their projects to visitors in classrooms and locations throughout the school.

Student projects were completed in the areas of literature, mathematics, science and social studies. Food projects, prepared primarily by foreign language students, were available for sampling and served in an atmosphere authentic to the nation of the food’s origin.

The students prepared their projects under the guidance of faculty advisers. Each project was evaluated by a panel of judges from the Hazleton campus of Penn State. Local restaurateurs evaluated food projects.

Mid school Open House Awards were presented in two categories to the following students:

Humanities: Olivia Minzola, first place, “The 3 Purposes of Writing and the Writing Process”; and Sarah Klush, second place, “Sonia DeLaunay.”

Science: Joshua Narrow, first place, “Gravity Formula”; Kyle Williams, second place, “Lie Detector”; and Caitlyn Kline, honorable mention, “Pullies and Levers.”

Prep school Open House winners were also honored, with Level 2 Awards being given to ninth- and 10th-grade students and Level 3 Awards to 11th- and 12th-grade students. Winners were:

Cooking Projects: first place, Paul Gronski, Andrew Mhley, Balaganesh Natarajan and Christian Parsons, “The Malt Shop”; second place, Megan Kost, Alyssa Triano and Annika Wessel, “1950’s Housewife”; and honorable mention, Brianna Nocchi, Nicholas O’Clair, Anjni Patel and David Polashenski, “A Delicious Country Bakery.”

Humanities: first place, Level 2, Robert Rosamelia, “The Sixties in Art and Literature”; second place, Level 2, Hayden Francis, “The Molly Maguires”; first place, Level 3, Zachery Bowman, “Eldorado State”; and second place, Level 3, Alexandra Baran, “Female Photographers Throughout the Ages.”

Science: first place, Level 2, Jonathan DeJesus, “Perception of the Senses”; second place, Level 2, Mariah Serra, “The Singularity”; honorable mention, Level 2, Rachel Stanziola, “Chaos Theory”; first place, Level 3, Gregory Yannes, “Hydraulic Lift”; second place, Level 3, Matthew Yurish, “Isolation of Limonene”; and honorable mention, Level 3, Aaron Kollar and Michael Sarno, “The Amazing T-shirt Cannon.”

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MMI dedicated the school’s new Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center on May 10.

Turri joined with school officials in unveiling the new library, constructed on the south side of Old Main along Centre Street.

MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood said, “This is another great milestone for MMI. We are constantly working to make sure that MMI evolves with the changing needs of our students. We believe libraries will remain important for great schools. Our library will be at the center of learning for MMI. From the very beginning of this process, Mr. Turri has strongly supported the idea of a new, modern MMI library and we greatly appreciate his involvement and contribution.”

Turri said, “It is an honor and a privilege to give back to the school that has done so much for me. I have appreciated being part of the development of the library since I initially discussed it with the school’s administration.”

The 3,800-square-foot library includes three study rooms that can be converted into a group study room, a reading area, a fireplace, vaulted ceilings, restrooms and a librarian work room. It features 9,000 volumes of books and periodicals and modern technology such as wireless Internet, which will allow students to access libraries worldwide, including libraries at Harvard and Oxford.

The library is part of the school’s capital campaign, “A Foundation for Success, A Promise for our Future,” which also included constructing a new athletic and environmental complex featuring baseball, softball and soccer fields and a nature trail, as well as increasing MMI’s endowment.

In addition to Turri’s donation, MMI received a $1 million

Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant to fund construction of the library.

Turri graduated from MMI as the valedictorian of his class in 1945. He earned a scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania and then became the manager of international engineering at a Fortune 500 company. He became interested in the commercial potential of powder coating metals and started planning a manufacturing enterprise based on the new technology.

He formed his own company, Advanced Coating Technology in Mechanicsburg, which became a leader in powder coating technologies and a major supplier to companies

MMI dedicates Turri library

From left, Chairman of the Board Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III ’82, State Rep. Tarah Toohil, State Sen. John Yudichak, and Head of School Thomas G. Hood listen to Joseph A. Turri ’45 speak during the dedication.

The Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center is now complete.

See LIBRARY, page 5

MMI Head of School Thomas G. Hood, right, presents a plaque to Joseph A. Turri ’45 in honor of the occasion.

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including Schick; the Wilton Company, a manufacturer of high-ticket faux pewter products; and Harley Davidson Motorcycle Company, one of the company’s largest clients to this day.

“The MMI culture of success was tremendously instrumental in the success of Advanced Coating Technology,” Turri said.

Turri pledged funding for the library several years ago and, in the meantime, also pledged an additional gift to be used toward future maintenance, staffing, book purchases, computer software subscriptions and other expenses associated with the new library. Construction on the library began in the fall of 2011.

MMI Board Chairman Llewellyn F. Dryfoos, III ’82, said, “We are grateful for Mr. Turri’s continued dedication to MMI and our current and future students. This library will serve as a reminder of his generosity for generations to come. MMI alumni such as Mr. Turri have consistently

shown their support for our school as we continue to modernize our facilities, activities and course offerings.”

MMI held an open house for the new library on June 2. During the open house, MMI families, students, friends and the local community had the opportunity to tour the library.

Library (continued from page 4)

Guests visit the library following the dedication.

In memory of Joseph BeltramiMr. & Mrs. William R. Lazor, CPA

In memory of Ralph G. Caldwell Jr.Mr. & Mrs. Thomas G. Hood

In memory of Mary DesmondMr. Edward ’58 & Mrs. Susanne Lesny

In memory of Ira Mark Goldberg ’64Mrs. Angeline Cameron Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Carey Ms. Nina C. Dei Tos ’01 Mrs. Ann G. Krusinski Mr. & Mrs. George Maue Mr. & Mrs. Robert Moisey Mr. & Mrs. Howard NarrowMrs. Donna Nestor Dr. William ’58 & Mrs. Miki Shergalis Ms. Lorna Veglia

In memory of Anna KishMr. John E. Kish ’85

In memory of George J. Kostick ’64Mr. & Mrs. George Swisko

In memory of Mr. William ’52 & Mrs. Patricia Morse

Mr. & Mrs. Llewellyn F. Dryfoos Jr.

In memory of Emilian Perkosky ’42Mr. David Bogansky Mr. & Mrs. Michael Bogansky Ms. Michaelene Panzarella

In memory of Peter J. Petrole & Peter C. PetroleMs. Ann M. Bonacci

In memory of Robert D. RymszaDr. William ’58 & Mrs. Miki Shergalis

In memory of Robert Seitzinger ’38Mr. William ’98 & Mrs. Goldie Van Horn

In memory of Frank SeratchMr. David Bogansky Mr. & Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Mr. & Mrs. Michael J. Morrison

In honor of Edward M. Sharp ’36Mr. Jason & Mrs. Melissa Cabe ’96 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph P. Moore SSG Curtis & Mrs. Stacy Swearengen ’00

In memory of Martin Stefanik ’58Mr. Joseph ’58 & Mrs. Barbara Berger Mr. & Mrs. Timothy McNulty Mr. & Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Mr. Robert ’58 & Mrs. Carol Klotz Mr. Edward ’58 & Mrs. Susanne LesnyMr. & Mrs. Francis Magee Dr. William ’58 & Mrs. Miki Shergalis

In memory of Camillia Rose StillerMs. Nina C. Dei Tos ’01 Mr. & Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Mr. & Mrs. Robert M. Peal Dr. William ’58 & Mrs. Miki Shergalis Mr. & Mrs. Michael J. Morrison

In memory of Andrew StofanMr. Gregory Hanish ’60

In memory of Millie & Harold SugarmanMr. Scott J. Sugarman ’73

In memory of Arthur Van Horn ’42Mr. & Mrs. Thomas G. Hood Mr. & Mrs. Timothy McNulty

In memory of Mike WellesMr. & Mrs. Timothy McNulty Mr. & Mrs. Thomas G. Hood

In memory of Thea WelskoMr. Thomas E. Welsko ’57

MemorialsLibrary Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials, and Honors donated between April 15 and June 15, 2012

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questions: What have we learned about education? What have we learned about the world around us? What have we learned about ourselves? Class of 2012, may the answers to these questions lead you through life so that your experiences may bring you to the answers to further questions that may benefit MMI, the world, and, most importantly, yourselves. Study hard, work together, change the world, and, as always, learn your lessons well,” he said.

In his address, salutatorian Roderick Cook said, “In a class full of so many different people, we were able to get along with each other almost effortlessly for all these years. In fact, our fellow classmates have encouraged each other to be themselves and supported each other’s passions and choices. I think that this is

something unique and special about our class.

“You’d think that a graduating class of only 37 students would have a lot in common. However, even with such a small number of kids, our interests and personalities are scattered everywhere. We are social activists, soccer stars, future business leaders, theatre lovers, basketball players, junior scientists, volleyball beasts and artists, among many other things. MMI has inspired us and encouraged our pursuits in any area that we chose,” he said.

Valedictorian Paul Brasavage speaks during the ceremony.

Salutatorian Roderick Cook addresses his fellow graduates during commencement.

The 37 members of MMI’s Class of 2012 earned more than $4.9 million in scholarships and awards. Graduates received the following awards during the school’s Awards Convocation on May 16 and during Commencement on May 24:

Paul Brasavage• The Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Prize

for Scholarship (Valedictorian)• The Joseph A. Chaykowski ’48

Memorial Prize for Mathematics and Science

• Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject Awards in Spanish and Mathematics

• Elks Student of the Month Award• Jake Kislan ’56 Polonaise Society Award• John Steiner Gold Math Exam Award• Spanish Honor Society Award• Spanish 4 Bronze Award

Briana Cole• Rotary Club Service Above Self Award

Roderick Cook• The Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Prize

for Scholarship (Salutatorian)• American Legion Good Citizenship

Award• Elks Student of the Month Award• Spanish 4 Bronze Award

Antonia Diener• Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject

Awards in Social Science and English• Spanish 4 Gold Award

Brittany Fisher• MMI Faculty Award• American Association of Teachers of

German Award• Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject

Awards in German and Science• Elks Student of the Month Award

Paul Gronski• Eckley B. Coxe Jr. Memorial Subject

Award in Art• Hazleton Art League Art Youth Expo

award

Megan Kost• Elks Student of the Month Award

Andrea Lara• District 2 Pennsylvania Interscholastic

Athletic Association Scholar-Athlete Award

Balaganesh Natarajan• Hazleton Art League Art Youth

Expo award

Ryan Twardzik• 2012 Woodmen of the World American

History Award• District 2 Pennsylvania Interscholastic

Athletic Association Scholar-Athlete Award

• Hazleton Art League Art Youth Expo award

• Frackville Rotary Student of the Month

Class of 2012 earns more than $4.9 million in scholarships, awards

Members of the Class of 2012 celebrate their graduation.

Commencement (continued from page 1)

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The Class of 2012Caroline Isabel Bandurska, daughter of Wojciech and Boguslawa Bandurska, Freeland. Wellesley College – International Business with a Minor in German.

Maria Ourania Boosalis, daughter of Harry Boosalis, South Canaan, and Stella Boosalis, White Haven. Goucher College –International Business.

Zachery Aaron Bowman, son of Keith Bowman, White Haven, and Wendy Bowman, Wilkes-Barre. Virginia Wesleyan College – English/Creative Writing.

Paul Brasavage, son of Mark and Bernadette Brasavage, Freeland. Lehigh University – Chemical Engineering.

Briana Marie Cole, daughter of Charles and Carol Cole, Freeland. Wilkes University – Nursing.

Mark Cole, son of Mark and Karen Cole, Freeland. Elizabethtown College – Electrical Engineering.

Roderick Michael Cook, son of Brian Cook, Nesquehoning, and Melissa Hawk, Nesquehoning. University of Pennsylvania – Philosophy/Politics/Economics.

Michael Stephen Deganich, son of Michael and Linda Deganich, McAdoo. Norwich University – Engineering Management.

Antonia Kitchen Diener, daughter of Ian and Emeline Diener, Pocono Lake. University of Pennsylvania – Anthropology with a Pre-Medical Concentration.

Taylor Jessica Farrell, daughter of Brian and Priscilla Farrell, Mountaintop. Kutztown University – Undecided.

Brittany Lee Fisher, daughter of Kyo Fisher, Freeland. Lehigh University – Environmental Engineering.

Tyler James Fulton, son of John Fulton, Drums, and Rachel and James Kuchar, Freeland. Bucknell University – Biochemistry with a Pre-Medical Concentration.

George Michael Gera Jr., son of George and Lee Ann Gera, Freeland. Wells College – Undecided.

John Joseph Gera Jr., son of John and Jennifer Gera, Freeland. Saint Joseph’s University – Sports Management/Sports Marketing.

James Harley Gliem, son of James Gliem, Drums, and Lynn Gliem, Wapwallopen. Florida Institute of Technology – Aeronautical Science.

Paul Nathaniel Aidan Gronski, son of Mark and Cynthia Gronski, Hazleton. Saint Joseph’s University – Biochemistry.

Englysh Ann Handlong, daughter of Robert and Kimberly Handlong, White Haven. Kutztown University – Anthropology.

Morgan Elizabeth Herbener, daughter of Paul Herbener, Tunkhannock, and Brenda Herbener, Beaver Meadows. Kutztown University – Secondary Education.

Megan Elizabeth Kost, daughter of Frank and Kathleen Kost, Freeland. West Chester University – Early Childhood Special Education.

Andrea Jeanette Lara, daughter of Guillermo and Sandra Lara, Hazleton. University of Scranton – Biology with a Pre-Medical Concentration.

Michael Brian Macarevich, son of Brian and Carol Macarevich, Drifton. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute – Computer Engineering.

Zachary Patrick Marchetti, son of David and Andrea Marchetti, Freeland. University of the Sciences in Philadelphia – Physical Therapy.

Andrew Joseph Mhley, son of Andrew Mhley, Hazleton, and Theresa Mhley, Hazleton. Wilkes University – Entrepreneurship and Finance.

Christopher Ryan Musselman, son of Sharon Musselman, Orangeville. Niagara University – Computer Science with a Minor in Computer Crime.

Balaganesh Natarajan, son of Rajamanickam and Vijayalakshmi Natarajan, Mountaintop. Drexel University – Biology with a Pre-Medical Concentration.

Vanessa Lynn Novinger, daughter of Quentin and Lorraine Novinger, Mountaintop. Temple University – Business/Marketing.

Christian Alan Parsons, son of Alan Parsons, Drums, and Jessica and Brian Jacobs, Kelayres. Franklin & Marshall College – Undecided.

John Louis Rish, son of Lorne and Veronica Rish, Freeland. Philadelphia University – Psychology/Art.

Samuel James Scalleat, son of James Scalleat, Sugarloaf, and Angela Scalleat, Hazleton. University of Vermont – Civil Engineering.

Brianna Gwen Simpkins, daughter of Steven and Michele Simpkins, Drums. Saint Joseph’s University – Elementary Special Education.

Corey Benjamin Sisock, son of Paul and Nancy Sisock, Freeland. Shippensburg University – Computer Engineering.

Claudio Sokarda, son of Valentin and Ana Sokarda, Hazleton. Penn State University – Undecided.

Alyssa Irene Triano, daughter of Nicholas and Michele Triano, Hazleton. Penn State University – Food Science.

Ryan Jacob Twardzik, son of Timothy and Caroline Twardzik, Frackville. University of Notre Dame – Industrial Design.

Alexander Chrisjon van Hoekelen, son of Cornelis and Lori van Hoekelen, Drums. Wells College – Business Management.

Thomas John Wenner, son of Richard and the late Beth Ann Wenner, Freeland. Penn State University – Computer Engineering.

Annika Kristin Wessel, daughter of Dierk and Andrea Wessel, Drums. University of Scranton – Biomathematics with a Pre-Medical Concentration.

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MMI students have excelled in science competitions this year, winning the regional and state Envirothon and earning a chance to compete at the national event in July. The Canon Envirothon, North America’s largest high school natural resouce education competition, will be held in Selinsgrove. Participating students will have a chance to win scholarships and Canon products.

Additionally, a team of MMI students won the Biology Olympics recently.

Brianna Nocchi, Rebecca Noga, David Polashenski, Anjni Patel, and Farrah Qadri were awarded first place overall at the state Envirothon, held May 22 and 23 at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, and will now compete at the national level. They also received first place in the Forestry segment and

third place in the oral component. The students received $1,000 scholarships to the school of their choice.

Teams first competed in a county Envirothon, with winners advancing to the state contest.

MMI Envirothon adviser Michael

Mele said, “It has been my pleasure to work with this year’s winning team. This group exemplifies what the true root of education is all about: providing framework, support and enrichment to the students and allowing them to nurture each other, grow mentally, collapse boundaries and yield success.”

In the 30th Annual Biology Olympics at Cedar Crest College on April 13, a team of MMI students earned the overall top prize, besting 15 area high schools.

The team of Trebor Hall, Casey McCoy, Brianna Nocchi, Anjni Patel, and David Polashenski, coached by Mele, competed in both team and individual events. In addition to the first-place award, the team received first-place wins for the Zoology individual event and Trivia team event.

The daylong competition featured group and individual events and concluded with an awards ceremony, during which MMI received a trophy and students received various prizes.

Teams win Envirothon, Bio OlympicsMMI to compete at national Envirothon

Members of MMI Preparatory School’s winning Envirothon team are, from left: Farrah Qadri, Rebecca Noga, Anjni Patel, Brianna Nocchi, David Polashenski, and adviser Michael Mele.

A team of students from MMI earned the overall top prize in the 30th Annual Biology Olympics at Cedar Crest College. Team members are, from left: Trebor Hall, Casey McCoy, Brianna Nocchi, Anjni Patel, David Polashenski, and adviser Michael Mele.

Student takes part in career exploration campGabriella Lobitz, who recently finished her junior year at

MMI, participated in the Misericordia University Department of Chemistry-Biochemistry’s annual career exploration camp in June. The camp enabled rising high school juniors and seniors to explore a variety of careers.

Lobitz is the daughter of Dr. Mark and Stephanie Lobitz, Hazleton.

Misericordia offers high school students an opportunity to experience and learn more about certain professions in a series of eight Career Exploration Camps every June. The Career Exploration Camps are a popular destination for students who want to explore both college campus life and a potential career. The university offers residential academic camps in nursing, business, teacher education, communications and media, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, chemistry and biochemistry sciences, and literature.

Gabriella Lobitz, front row, fourth from left, participated in the Chemistry/Biochemistry Career Exploration Camp at Misericordia University.

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Three MMI students were chosen to participate in the University of Pittsburgh Health Career Scholars Academy.

Anjni Patel, Farrah Qadri, and Justin Sheen, who recently completed their junior year, attended the 2012 program from June 24 to July 21. Patel is the daughter of Praful and Bhavna Patel, Beaver Meadows. Qadri is the daughter of Syed and Saffiyah Qadri, Drums. Sheen is the son of Kwangsup and Chaeyun Sheen, Mountaintop.

“You and your family should feel honored that you are one of the students selected for this year’s program. Your selection is a credit to your talent and commitment to learning,” wrote Karen D. Narkevic, M.A., director of the University of Pittsburgh Health Career Scholars Academy.

The University of Pittsburgh Health Career Scholars Academy brings gifted high school sophomores and juniors to the University of Pittsburgh’s Oakland campus. The Scholars Academy provides hands-on experience and education in numerous health careers. The program, formerly known as the Pennsylvania Governor’s School for Health Care, also assists students with leadership development, enhances their social and academic preparation for college, and encourages a sense of responsibility for the status of health in their community.

The health care field, as well as other fields, demands highly skilled and knowledgeable practitioners who are understand the economical, cultural, and personal implications for patients

as well as the needs of rural, urban and under-served areas in the state. The University of Pittsburgh Health Career Scholars Academy introduces students to the world of health care, emphasizing the health care delivery system, primary care, prevention, public health, career exploration, and healthy communities.

The program includes a schedule of core courses and concentration courses, where students pursue an area of study in depth. Two-day shadow days, multiple site visits, leadership projects, small discussion groups, guest speakers, simulation games, team projects and presentations, videos, independent study, and cultural events are also included in the curriculum.

Three students selected for summer program

Seven students from MMI’s chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America placed in the top 10 in events at the Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center in Hershey, with two students earning first-place finishes.

Ryan Twardzik, son of Timothy and Caroline Twardzik, Frackville, and Antonia Diener, daughter of Ian and Emeline Diener, Pocono Lake, placed first in the Entrepreneurship category and qualified for the National Leadership Event held in June in San Antonio, Texas.

Twardzik and Diener took the FBLA written test in the first round. A select number of students then advanced to the performance round. While the MMI students did not advance, they had a great time in San Antonio during the five-day national conference. They went to the Alamo and a water park, did a guided river cruise and visited with MMI alumni Todd Schell ’80 and Joleen Beltrami ’82 and their family. (See photo in Alumni Notes, page 13.)

Additional MMI students who placed in the FBLA state competition were Farrah Qadri, daughter of Syed and Saffiyah Qadri, Drums, who earned fourth place in the Job Interview category; Devan McCarrie, daughter of John and Caren McCarrie, Hazleton, and Kristen Purcell, daughter of David and Kathleen Purcell, Drums, who earned fifth place in the E-Business category; and Maria Carrato, daughter of Anthony and Carmine Carrato, Hazleton, and Paige Darrow, daughter of John and Gertie Darrow, Hazleton, who earned seventh place in the Digital Video Production category.

MMI placed second in the state for Largest Market Share, which refers to the number of FBLA members at the school compared to the number of students attending the prep

school. More than 34 percent of MMI prep school students are members of FBLA.

In total, 18 MMI students competed among more than 3,800 students from throughout Pennsylvania in the State Leadership Conference. During the State Leadership Conference, students also attended various workshops related to business, economics, entrepreneurship and conflict resolution.

The MMI students advanced to the state-level competition after placing in the top five at the Pennsylvania Regional Leadership Conference held in January at Luzerne County Community College in Nanticoke.

Kate Lengel and Tina Lizbinski are the co-advisers to MMI’s chapter of the FBLA.

Antonia Diener, left, and Ryan Twardzik, right, visited San Antonio for the FBLA’s National Leadership Event and are pictured at the Alamo. They were accompanied by FBLA adviser Kate Lengel, center.

Farrah Qadri, Justin Sheen, and Anjni Patel were chosen to participate in the University of Pittsburgh Health Career Scholars Academy.

Two compete in national FBLA event

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Major General Peter C. Bayer Jr. ’80 returned to MMI on April 30 to speak to students about his time as a soldier, the concept of service and more.

Bayer has served in a variety of command and staff positions in the United States, Germany and the Middle East and is currently assigned as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Policy, Headquarters Supreme Allied Command Transformation, NATO.

He first spoke to ninth-grade students who recently finished reading Stephen Crane’s The Red Badge of Courage, which focuses on a soldier during the Civil War. Bayer discussed his experiences as a soldier and answered student questions.

Bayer also addressed an assembly of sophomores, juniors and seniors about his experiences and how MMI prepared him for life.

“I am excited and honored to return to MMI and share with students my

experiences as a soldier, but more importantly, what I have learned along the way,” he said. “My MMI experience provided me an outstanding education as well as the opportunity to grow as a young leader through athletics and numerous student-led activities. I was surrounded by a talented and devoted faculty who mentored and challenged me and provided living examples of what right looked like through their hard work, character, values, professional passion and a commitment to serve

their community. My MMI experience was instrumental in shaping me into the man I am today.”

Bayer talked to the students about the young men and women serving the nation as U.S. Army soldiers. He also spoke about the concept of service and his belief that every citizen has an obligation to serve his or her community and nation in some capacity.

Head of School Thomas Hood said, “This was an excellent opportunity for our students to hear from and talk with a decorated member of the United States military.

We are grateful to Major General Bayer for his service to our country and for his willingness to speak to MMI students about his military career.”

Bayer graduated from MMI in 1980 and was commissioned a Lieutenant of Armor in 1984 after graduating from Lehigh University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing.

Bayer and his wife, Lhoryn, have two children, Kathryn and Ross.

Major general speaks to students

Major General Peter C. Bayer Jr. ’80 addresses students during an assembly.

Six MMI students who recently completed their junior year have qualified to enter the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Program.

George Gorski, Trebor Hall, David Polashenski, Devon Sherwood, Gregory Yannes and Matthew Yurish were among the 50,000 highest-scoring participants of about 1.5 million program entrants on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).

About 16,000 students who are selected each year will be named National Merit Program Semifinalists, representing the top scorers in each state, and approximately 34,000 other high scorers will be commended for their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT. Semifinalists will continue in the competition for about 8,300 National Merit Scholarships to be offered in 2013.

Because the students have shown outstanding academic potential,

they have been invited to be referred to two colleges or universities in the United States in which they are particularly interested. This College Plans Reporting Service (CPRS) is offered

solely to encourage college officials to communicate directly with the students about educational opportunities that may be available to them.

Students qualify for scholarship program

Six MMI students have qualified to enter the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Program. From left: Trebor Hall, George Gorski, Devon Sherwood, David Polashenski, and Gregory Yannes. Missing from photo: Matthew Yurish.

11

Student participates in leadership

program

Members of the MMI faculty pose for their photograph before commencement. Front row, from left: Stephanie Shandra, Donna Titus, Laura Petro, Susan Moyer, Christina Spencer, Tina Lizbinski, Dr. Jaclyn Fowler, and Jennifer Collins. Second row: Mary-Lee Hood, Patty Medvecky, Stella Boosalis, and Dennis Clarke. Third row: Dr. Gregg Bluth, Kate Lengel, Kate Green, Justin Vincent, and Gabriela Moustardas. Fourth row: Gerry Pierotti, Michael Scarlato, Matthew Kenenitz, Grete DeAngelo, and Lisa Ferry. Back row: Dan DeMelfi, Michael Mele, Anthony Cusat, Head of School Thomas G. Hood, and Bruce Young. Not pictured: the Rev. Lawrence Barriger.

Roger Knittle, who recently finished his sophomore year, completed the Leadership Challenge Weekend (Youth Leadership Conference) at Norwich University in Northfield, Vt.

Knittle is the son of Roger and Sherry Knittle of Ringtown.

Sponsored by the University and the Military Order of World Wars (MOWW), an organization for retired military officers, the Leadership Challenge Weekend covers numerous topics, including leadership, effective communication, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, free enterprise, cyber security, ethics and what it means to be a citizen soldier. To attend, participants must have a 2.5 GPA or above and write a 500-word essay titled “The Bill of Rights and My Responsibilities.”

Divided into teams, participants are provided a challenging leadership experience through the development of individual leadership skills, self-confidence and teamwork. The program includes a Leadership Reaction Course, climbing wall and a water survival skills class.

Awards for best essay and best overall participant are given with one individual being nominated to attend the National Youth Leadership Conference.

With more than 1,500 cadets and 800 students, Norwich University is the nation’s oldest senior military college and is considered the home of the Reserve Officer Training Corps program (ROTC).

Knittle

Thank you, faculty!

Alumnus donates items to MMI

William Anthony ’52 made two gift-in-kind donations to his alma mater this spring. His first donation was a treadmill to the MMI Physical Education and Athletic programs for the weight room. He also donated his extensive rock and mineral collection that he collected across the United States to the Science Department for use in MMI’s physical science and geology courses. From left: MMI faculty member Dr. Gregg Bluth, student Katlyn Frey, and William Anthony ’52.

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Girls’ softball team qualifies for district playoffs

The MMI Girls’ Softball Team qualified for the PIAA District 2 Softball playoffs this spring. MMI used 16 hits to win its first-round game against Mountain View, 10-2, on May 25. The win advanced MMI to the District Final. After two rain-outs and two long trips to the Pennsylvania – New York border for the championship game, MMI fell to Blue Ridge by a 5-2 final score on May 31. Congratulations to Head Coach Marsha Kringe and all the team members for a terrific season!

Members of the MMI Board of Directors pictured at commencement are, front row, from left: Robert Davis ’96,

Chairman Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III ’82, Sal Coxe Dobbs, Florence M. McNelis, and Head of School Thomas G. Hood.

Back row: Ed Kushma ’62, Norman Dick ’87, Vice Chairman Brian Lucas ’84, and Timothy Twardzik. Absent from photo:

Nicholas L. Dei Tos ’71, Barbara Ecker, Lawrence Dessen ’77, Donald G. Karpowich, William M. Loftus ’62,

William Spear Jr. ’79, and Stanley B. Warner III ’92.

Homecoming 2012 events announcedHomecoming 2012 will be held Friday

and Saturday, September 7 and 8. This year’s festivities will honor the reunion classes of 1932, 1937, 1942, 1947, 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2007.

Events are as follows:

Friday, September 7Varsity Girls’ Volleyball – 4:30 p.m.

Come cheer on the Preppers as they take on Dallas High School in the MMI Athletics and Drama Complex!

Head of School’s Reception – 5:30 to 7 p.m. All reunion classes are invited to

join Head of School Thomas G. Hood as we kick off Homecoming weekend with cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres in the new Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center.

Reunion Dinners – 7 p.m.Alumni classes are planning their

reunions at various locations in the

area. Specific class information will be provided in the Homecoming brochure to be mailed soon.

Saturday, September 8Poetry Reading – 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Join us for pastries and coffee beginning at 9:30 a.m. At 10 a.m, Hazleton’s Poet Laureate Salvadore V. DeFazio ’67 will conduct a poetry reading with current MMI students in the new Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center. U.S. Congressman Lou Barletta will discuss the Poet Laureate program and Hazleton Mayor Joe Yannuzzi will announce Hazleton’s new poet laureate at the conclusion of the event.

Varsity Boys’ Soccer Match – 11 a.m.Root the Preppers on to victory over

Tunkhannock High School on the new MMI soccer field!

Homecoming Picnic – 12 to 3 p.m.All alumni and their families

are invited to attend the annual

Homecoming Picnic featuring great food and friendship. Picnic highlights include raffle drawings, tours of the Joseph A. Turri ’45 Library and Learning Center, and the opportunity to visit with classmates and friends.

Wall of Fame Induction – 6 to 10 p.m.An elegant induction ceremony is

planned to honor this year’s additions to the MMI Wall of Fame. The cocktail hour will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow at 7 p.m. in the MMI Athletics and Drama Complex. Be part of this special night and help us celebrate the achievements and dedication of the Wall of Fame Class of 2012. Inductees are: Athletic Achievement, Mr. Walter F. Dryfoos ’59; Community Service, Mr. Paul D. Lesser ’73; Service to MMI, Mr. William K. Rudewick ’42 and Dr. David Stiller ’61; and Professional Achievement, Dr. Cory Coll ’60, Dr. Lawrence Kline ’60, Dr. Nicholas Martyak ’59, and Dr. Fredrick T. Sherman ’63.

Thank you to the MMI Board of Directors

13

MMI Preparatory School held the baccalaureate service for the Class of 2012 at St. James Episcopal Church in Drifton on Tuesday, May 22. Held in advance of commencement, the baccalaureate ceremony is a service of worship in celebration of, and thanksgiving for, lives dedicated to learning and wisdom.

Ritually marking the close of the high school years, MMI’s baccalaureate provides an occasion to remember that we do not belong only to ourselves, but that our true vocations are discovered only by committing ourselves to the service of the common good. In gratitude and reverence for those sacred vocations, as numerous and as diverse as the members of the graduating Class, we gather at baccalaureate to remember, to rejoice, and to give thanks.

The MMI baccalaureate service is held annually at St. James

Episcopal Church in Drifton, which is the final resting place of MMI founder Eckley Brinton Coxe and his wife, Sophia Georgianna Coxe. The church was not only established by the Coxes, but was also their chosen place of worship during their lives. Twice a year, the MMI family honors the Coxes by celebrating Founder’s Day and baccalaureate at St. James.

Above, Members of the senior class take part in the annual baccalaureate service at St. James Episcopal Church in Drifton on May 22.

At left, the Rev. Lawrence Barriger, Greek and Latin instructor at MMI, speaks to students during the service.

Neil Makhija ’05 has been accepted to Harvard Law School and will begin his studies in Cambridge this fall.

Michael A. Moir Jr. ’96 received a Ph.D. in English this year from Catholic University of America and recently accepted a teaching job at Georgia Southwestern State University. Michael and his wife, Rachel, who were married in 2006, will make the move from Washington, D.C., down south this summer. At Georgia Southern, Michael will be teaching two sections of World Literature and two sections of a Composition & Literature course. He is the son of Deborah Moir of New Columbus and the late Michael A. Moir Sr.

Megha Patel ’08, daughter of Drs. Dilipkumar and Minaben Patel, graduated in May from The University of Scranton with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She graduated summa cum laude and was a member of the Alpha Lamda Delta Freshman Honor Society, Beta Beta Beta Biology Honor Society, and Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre Med Honor Society. In the fall, she will attend The Commonwealth Medical College in Scranton to pursue her M.D. degree.

Leandra Pszeniczny ’07 graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design on June 2, earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture degree with an Architectural History minor, cum laude. She is continuing directly into the Master

of Architecture program at SCAD. She is the daughter of Anthony Pszeniczny and Angela Shannon.

Alumni NotesWhat’s happening with MMI graduates around the globe

STUDENTS VISIT WITH ALUMNI – During their trip to San Antonio for the national Future Business Leaders of America competition, MMI students Ryan Twardzik and Antonia Diener visited with two alumni and their children. Front row, from left: Twardzik, Diener, FBLA adviser Kate Lengel, and Madison Schell. Second row: Todd Schell ’80, Austin Schell, and Dr. Joleen Beltrami ’82.

Seniors take part in baccalaureate service

14

DeathsRalph G. Caldwell Jr. passed away on April 19, 2012. Surviving are two sons, Ralph G. III and his wife, Marion; and David and his wife, Maria; nine grandchildren, including Cassie Caldwell ’13 and David Caldwell ’18; great-grandchildren; nieces; and nephews.

Nicole C. Facciolla passed away on June 3, 2012. She is survived by her parents, James V. and Suzette of Conyngham; her son, Carl; and her companion, Thomas Herman, Freeland; and her brother, James R. Facciolla ’09, Conyngham.

Tophilia Ebling Houser passed away on May 5, 2012. She is survived by her son, Robert E. Ebling ’78, and his wife, Donna; daughter, Mary E. (Ebling) Staudinger ’81, wife of Paul; grandchildren, Nathan, Caleb, Aaron, Hannah, and Samuel Staudinger; sister, Constance Knepper, and her companion, Bobby Hallahan; brother, Eugene Zynel, and his wife, Joann; six stepchildren; and sisters-in-law, Haruko Zynel and Anna Zynel.

George J. Kostick ’64 passed away on May 9, 2012. Survivors include his wife, Ceil; son, Dave, and his wife, Patti; grandchildren, Lauren and Scott; sister, Lucille, and her husband, George; a nephew; a niece; and many cousins.

Emilian Joseph Perkosky ’42 passed away on May 13, 2012. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marie (Bogansky) Perkosky; son, Emilian; and daughters, Jeanne and Lori and her husband, Kevin Kollar. Survivors also include his brother, John Person; sister, Mildred Detweiller; and grandson, Alex Kollar.

Bernard J. Pignatari ’44 passed away on May 6, 2012. He is survived by his sister, Theresa Kushner; and a niece.

Frank A. Seratch Jr. passed away April 13, 2012. Frank is survived by his wife, Margaret; sons, Frank A. Seratch III and his wife, Sarah; and Alan Seratch; nine grandchildren including Emily Seratch ’15, Frank IV, and Isabelle; and stepsons, Richard Morro Sr.; Robert Morro and his wife, Susan; and Patrick Morro.

Martin R. Stefanik ’58 passed away on May 18, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Judie; mother, Anna; sons, Robert and his wife, Jennifer, and Sgt. Adam and his wife, Jasmine; daughter, Jennifer; sister, Barbara, and her husband, Joseph Berger ’58; grandchildren, Brooke, Rylee, and Kelly; and nieces and nephews. Martin is also survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Miki Shergalis and MMI President Emeritus William Shergalis ’58.

Camillia Stiller passed away on April 17, 2012. She is survived by her parents, Erich and Roseann Stiller; grandparents, former MMI faculty member Dr. David Stiller ’61 and the Rev. Connie Stiller, and Roseann and the late Gerald Sundra; sisters, Bethany Stiller and Emily Merrell-Stiller; brother, E.J. Merrell-Stiller; aunts and uncles including Dr. Sonja Stiller-Martin ’85 and Dr. Geoffrey Stiller ’87; great-aunts; great-uncles; and cousins.

Henrietta R. Stower passed away on June 6, 2012. She is survived by her children, Carol Sessock and her husband, John, Freeland; John Stower and his wife, Helen (Huscovich), Tennessee; Sandra Bredbenner and her husband, Michael, Colorado; and Michael Stower and his wife, Joann (Mealing), Upper Lehigh; a sister, Emma Blose, Wernersville; seven grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren, including Samuel Sessock ’17 and Alexander Sessock.

Former faculty member Arthur Van Horn ’42 passed away on May 17, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Carol; son, Mark, and his wife, Deborah; daughter, Deborah, and her husband, Frank Sterdjevich; and grandsons, Schuyler Van Horn and Alexander Sterdjevich. Arthur was also the great-uncle of Robert Barron ’95 and Bill Van Horn ’98.

Mike Welles passed away on May 12, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons, Michael and his partner, Chris; Kevin and his wife, Nancy; and Tim and his wife, Stacy; daughter, Jodell Andes, and her husband, Brian; stepchildren, Corinne Gilsky and her husband, Jason, and Stephanie Andrejko; numerous grandchildren including Alec Andes ’14 and Brandon Andes ’17; and brothers, Gary Welles and his wife, Pat, and Thomas Welles and his wife, Donna.

MilestonesEvents in the lives of the MMI Prep family

Members of the Class of 2016 participated in a highway cleanup along Route 940 on May 11. From left: Head of School Thomas G. Hood, Chris Tessitore, Brian Driscoll, Andrew Haber, Jay Solgama, and Charles Bower.

MMI helps with cleanup along Route 940

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Kislan golf tournament winners announcedMMI held the fourth annual Jake

Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament on June 22 at the Valley Country Club. The tournament, which raises money for the school’s student-athletes, is held in memory of Jake Kislan, an MMI alumnus and athlete who passed away in December 2008.

First-place winners in the first flight were Frank Cabell, Jeff Lotz, Jeffrey Lotz, and Steve Walser.

Second place in the first flight went to the team of Steve Adams, Jessica Herness ’01, John Herness, and Steph Pcolinski. Third-place winners in the first flight were Steve Davis, Mike Dennen, Ryan Forte ’11, and Mike Morrison.

First place in the second flight was awarded to the team of Florie McNelis, Sarah Seratch, Jill Snyder, and Debbie Walko ’79.

Second place in the second flight went to Thomas Hood, Terry Jones, Paul Malone, and Paul Oswald. Third place in the second flight was awarded to Patrick Genetti, Joe Matz, Henry Mleczynski, and Emmett Thomas.

“Closest to the pin” winners were Bill Loftus ’62 and Robbie Brown. Steve Walser had the men’s longest drive and Jessica Herness ’01 had the women’s longest drive. PNC Bank was the Eagle Sponsor.

MMI held the fourth annual Jake Kislan ’56 Memorial Golf Tournament on June 22 at the Valley Country Club. From left: Director of Advancement Kim McNulty; first-place winners Frank Cabell, Jeff Lotz, and Jeffrey Lotz; Jake Kislan’s widow, Michelle Kislan; and Head of School Thomas G. Hood. Steve Walser, the other part of the winning foursome, is absent from the photo.

Above left, Steve Walser, part of the first-place foursome, sets up to show off his long game.

Above right, Paul Malone, Paul Oswald, and Thomas Hood enjoy some camaraderie on the links.

Above, Jodell Andes swings at the ball during the tournament.

At right, Ed Kushma ’62 and his sons, Ed and Glenn, survey the scene as they prepare to take on the hole.

MMI Preparatory School154 Centre StreetFreeland, PA 18224

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This year’s festivities will honor the reunion classes of 1932, 1937, 1942, 1947, 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2007.

See page 12 for more details.

September 7 and 8, 2012Homecoming Weekend

New Student Orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 27First Day of School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 28Homecoming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 7 & 8Meet the Teacher Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 11Freshmen Orientation and Pajama Parade . . . . . September 14

Important Dates

MMI seniors, guests enjoy prom

MMI’s prom was held Friday, May 18, at Capriotti’s, where seniors and their guests danced the night away.