Fall 2017

Fr. Matthew Stewart, SJ ‘98 has been selected to serve as the next Principal of SLUH, beginning July 1, 2023.

SLUH is pleased to welcome middle school students and families to our campus for a variety of visit opportunities this fall.

Dr. Eric Clark '83 was recognized on April 25, 2022 with the Backer Award, the highest honor SLUH grants upon its alumni.

Senior Ismael Karim’s journey to courageously living and discovering his identity.

SLUH varsity hockey defeated De Smet to claim third title in 5 years.

Alumni share how SLUH Global Education expanded their college and career opportunities.

Our Global Education curriculum continues to thrive, benefiting our SLUH and international students.

Michael Lally, theology teacher and coach, discusses how he challenges his students and athletes to go the distance both in the classroom and on the course. 

Inspiring, compelling and courageous, Dr. Matt Boland '90 selflessly endured in the wake of a terrible loss.

Whayne Herriford '71 uses his gifts, talents and selfless spirit to help his classmates as well as those in need.

From the SLUH Archive: The 1927 tornado caused significant damage to Backer Memorial.

Avoid paying income tax on your IRA by making a QCD to SLUH.

SLUH receives two gifts that exemplify how a donor can support a beloved program in perpetuity.

The Thomas R. Schilli Foundation donated $500,000 to the Go Forth campaign.

The Alum Service Corps (ASC) is a post-college volunteer program for alumni of Jesuit institutions, serving Jesuit middle and high schools throughout Denver, Kansas City and St. Louis – including St. Louis University High.

Fall and Winter updates (as of January 26, 2022). Check @SLUHAthletics on Twitter and sluh.org/athletics for current news, scores and updates. 
 

Chris Brooks, Jr. '22 has dominated as a wide receiver at SLUH. Yet his talent and ability extend well beyond football.

John Shipp ‘98 courageously carves his own path to success as Head of Talent Attraction and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Anheuser-Busch InBev.

Principal Fr. Ian Gibbons, SJ Leads SLUH through the pandemic with quiet courage and a steadfast spirit.

Dulick exudes quiet courage while serving the poorest of the poor in Honduras.

Peter Lucier '08 advocates for and assists Afghan refugees seeking asylum.

Last week seniors completed and presented their Grande Projects to faculty panels.

On Jan. 11, St. Louis U. High announced the passing of former principal Dr. Robert Bannister ’54. 

SLUH provides an environment where students can safely navigate the pandemic while benefiting from exceptional learning and student life experiences.

The Jesuit Jubilee, honoring Jesuits who celebrate 75, 70, 60, 50 or 25 year milestones, is Sunday, October 24.

Student Body VP Ismael "Ish" Karim ’22 talks about his SLUH experience, how he celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, and his future aspirations.

Eight Jr. Bills actively engaged in research shared their remarkable projects and experiences.

James Blase '75 recounts the 1970 State Championship in detail. 

This summer Zach Brugnara '22 participated in the St. Louis SDG Changemakers Youth Action Program to address local issues and challenges.

English teacher Adam Cruz ’10 has been selected as a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction for outstanding excellence in education.

SLUH honored the first two recipients of the Sacred Heart Award – John Vatterott and Dr. Mary Lee McConaghy – at the Mass of the Holy Spirit in the Si Commons on August 31.

From May 2021 until July 2022, the Jesuits and the Ignatian family celebrate the 500th anniversary of the transformation of St. Ignatius.

Louie Hotop, SJ ’09 was among five members of the Jesuits USA Central and Southern Province who were ordained to the priesthood on June 12.

Special awardees as well as those faculty and staff who are leaving or retiring were recognized at the annual event.

Joe Hurley '64 and his brother Pat '68 are furthering their parents legacy, one that valued education, with a SLUH endowed scholarship.

Tim Rodgers ’71 and Michael Soehngen ’67 received this distinguished honor for their dedicated and enduring service to SLUH.

He assumes this new position following the retirement of Tom Becvar, who leaves a 48-year legacy at SLUH.

Registration is open for the Fr. Hagan Alumni Cup on June 25 in Forest Park.

Three Jr. Bills took home winning awards for stewardship essays they wrote for the Annual Catholic Appeal.

Msgr. John Shocklee '35, a Civil Rights icon, left a lasting influence on the community.

The annual auction raised more than $1 million for the school's financial aid program.

Steve Walters transitions from interim coach to head coach to lead the Jr. Bills.

The Society of Jesus has unveiled ambitious plans for a “truth and reconciliation” initiative.

Hollywood screenwriter Mark Gunn '89 talks about the creative process in a SLUH Magazine feature.

Math teacher Frank Corley '77 shares the culmination of his sabbatical with an art exhibit.

Pandemic inspires Philip Hiblovic '21 to start regional creative collective.

Doug Auer '95 shares insights and perspectives from his remarkable journey as an artist, innovator and business owner.

How SLUH's first Asian student made his way to the U.S. and found the secret to enjoying life.

Jeff Schaefer maximizes the potential of the new Innovation Lab as a master craftsman with a selfless spirit.

The Madonna Della Strada Retreat Center will become an integral part of the SLUH Campus Ministry program after it underwent extensive renovations.

Students in Ms. Anzalone's dance classes showcase their talent with a virtual concert.

The pandemic motivated Jerry Anselmo '63 to reinvent his annual fundraiser for the BMA Foundation.

Junior Isaac Thompson, a standout wide receiver and defensive back, verbally committed to play football at Mizzou.

During the week of November 22, just prior to Thanksgiving, more than 400 students participated in Retreat Week. 

SLUH relied on teamwork to finish in second place at the State meet on November 2, 2020.

Pat and Aja Stokes are supporting the Chapel renewal initiative with a generous pledge to match $2 million in gifts made toward this effort.

Joy Meisel is making a lasting gift to the Chapel renewal project in memory of her deceased husband George '52.

Covid precautions didn't hinder any spirits, as the SLUH community enjoyed another successful Spirit Week.

Pat and Aja Stokes have pledged to match $2 million in gifts made toward SLUH’s Chapel renewal project, a cornerstone of the Go Forth campaign.

On the first Friday of every month, SLUH invites students, parents and alumni to Mass in the main Chapel at 7:00 a.m.

Each month, Campus Ministry will bring students together for a Friday evening of conversation, community building and food.

The SLUH Scholarship Golf Classic provided incredible support for financial aid in a time of real need.

After months of hard work and preparation, SLUH safely welcomes students back for on-campus learning.

Fr. Stewart celebrated his first Mass in the SLUH chapel on Sunday, August 16, one day after his ordination.

After 25 years as a Jesuit, SLUH Principal Fr. Ian Gibbons, SJ professed final vows in the Society of Jesus at the Mass of the Holy Spirit.

SLUH Global Education and One World Club share a look back at some virtual exchanges with our partner schools this summer.

Former SLUH President Fr. Tom Cummings, SJ '56 peacefully passed away on August 9, 2020.

As we approach uncertainty in the 2020-21 school year, Jesuit ingenuity will continue live in the planning, conversations and formation work ahead.

This Friday we give special thanks to all of our seniors for dedicating the month of January in service to those in need, in St. Louis and around the world.

SLUH has shown solidarity and resolve by actively contributing to several local efforts aimed at slowing the spread of the Coronavirus.

Despite unusual circumstances and logistical challenges, SLUH's auction achieved unprecedented success in preserving the school’s longstanding tradition of providing need-blind admission.

The safety, health and well-being of our students, faculty and staff is our top priority at SLUH. Visit our communications center for coronavirus-related updates and resources.

Through his passion for music, social justice and architecture, Kameron Moses '20 has developed into a Man for Others and leader of the senior class.

Ben Rosario ‘98, a prolific runner in high school, continues to achieve new levels of success, now as a running coach on a new stage: the Olympics.

SLUH's partnership with Colombia is part of an expanding global education program.

Brian Roy ‘90 embodies the Man for Others philosophy as Executive Director at Variety St. Louis, where he helped SLUH freshman Nick George.

SLUH's new STEM Innovation Product Development course features creative development, human-centered design and prototyping.

Nonprofit founded by SLUH President Emeritus Fr. Paul Sheridan, SJ saves lives and provides future for at-risk kids in U.S. and Latin America.

The Jesuits have named Fr. Thomas Greene, SJ as the new provincial of the U.S. Central and Southern Province, effective July 31, 2020.

Eleven students from the class of 2020 have advanced to the finalist stage of the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Rob Cooper ’90, who attributes his success to his SLUH experience, is giving back through a generous gift in his will.

The Jr. Bills fulfilled their motivational slogan – 'This is a state championship team’ – on November 16 at the Rec Plex.

For a second consecutive season, the Jr. Billikens finished 2nd overall at the State meet.

SLUH Energy Team members attended the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Ed Conference to learn about sustainability projects at colleges and universities.

Steve Nicollerat, legendary SLUH baseball coach and computer science teacher, recently caught up with Tim McKernan '94, local sports radio broadcaster.

Michael Mohr, SJ, a Jesuit scholastic teaching English and Theology at SLUH, reflects on his calling during Vocations Week.

This fall season, SLUH athletes and coaches continue a long and storied winning tradition.

Tim Curdt ’90 has been recognized with the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.

Lee Berra ‘02 always knew he wanted to fly. But something differentiated him from most others – he actually followed through.

SLUH's robust Computer Science program equips students for success in an increasingly digital, interconnected world.

Garrett Gray '55, the seventh African American to graduate from SLUH, stands tall among many distinguished alumni.

Nearly 100 graduates from the Class of 1969 met at SLUH on October 11 to celebrate their 50th reunion.

SLUH's Jazz Band 1 was the only high school jazz ensemble in Missouri selected to perform at the 82nd annual Missouri Music Educators Association Conference.

Two graduates from the Class of 2019, Anthony Rizzo and Tyler Truong, reconnected at the Air Force versus Navy football game.

Ismael Karim '22 traveled across the Atlantic Ocean to attend SLUH, where he is taking full advantage of the opportunities given to him.

Visit our Art Gallery to meet and mingle with the menagerie of robots created by Bill Christman '65 on display now through December.

SLUH Media students talk with Adam Cruz '10, Stephen Deves '11 and Nick Ehlman '99 in their first installment of Faculty Features.

Sophomore Jack DuMont reflects on SLUH's rich tradition, diverse classmates, deep spirituality and endless opportunities.

More than 500 graduates from nine classes celebrated Alumni Reunion Weekend on September 20-21.

Braden Kramer '20 kicks off our Student Spotlight Series, produced by SLUH Media students, with his own thoughts on what makes the school so special.

SLUH is excited to offer a new Merit Scholars Program, named after two former SLUH Jesuits, to recognize academic leadership while continuing our unwavering tradition of financial accessibility.

The Environmental STEM class launched the school's seventh weather balloon on August 29.

They were among 29 local students who produced work strong enough in the STARS program to receive a Partnership of Research Institutions Award for Excellence in Research.

Dan Finucane ’06 and Phil Nahlik ’11 were among 12 novices of the USA Central and Southern Province who recently took vows as Jesuits.

This summer SLUH opened a new 1,000 square-foot space to support student-athlete training and campus-wide health and wellness efforts.

This summer Casimir Magruder ‘21 and Jack Rosenstengel ’21 studied at SLUH’s Jesuit partner school in Bucaramanga, Colombia for six weeks.

The SLUH community gathered for the Mass of the Holy Spirit, celebrated by Fr. Joseph Hill, SJ, in the Si Commons on August 27.

SLUH recently unveiled the Alumni Trailblazers display, which celebrates the achievements of graduates of color and serves as inspiration for current students.

SLUH is committed to cultivating a safe school climate in which equity and inclusion are shared and celebrated guiding values.

Nine students successfully completed a competitive summer program working with leading researchers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Dr. Chris Erkmann ’73, a pediatric anesthesiologist, is getting some well-deserved recognition for his philanthropic work with Operation Smile.

Highlight reels capture the best moments in sports. They can also do the same for our spirituality. Fr. Joe Laramie, SJ '96 shares an excerpt from his new book reflecting on this topic.

SLUH Principal Fr. Ian Gibbons, SJ and several alumni who are secondary education leaders throughout the country share their insights and perspectives.

Terry Donohue '63, of the SLUH Archive Committee, shares a story of how one alumnus reconnected with his past through the archive - and how he responded.

Sulli Wallisch '19, a talented photographer, puts himself in the middle of the action to capture unforgettable moments at St. Louis U. High.

USA Today makes a case for the MLB to hire Joey Zanaboni '09, who does play-by-play for the Division II University of West Florida Argos.

Jim Santel '08 experienced an incredible journey from serving as Editor-in-Chief of SLUH's Prep News to Acting Chief Speech Writer of the U.S. Attorney General.

This spring’s exhibit featured a diverse spectrum of work, including block print, colored pencil, oil pastel, ceramic and water color.

Matt Harvey '81, art enthusiast and Board President of Laumeier Sculpture Park, reflects on one of our region's prized treasures.

The Jr. Bills-led team earned two awards at the 14th annual Missouri SuperMileage Challenge.

Engineering student Dan Wagner '17 reflects on literature's importance for aspiring tech leaders.

A cardiologist by trade, Dr. Jerry Dwyer '75 embodies an entrepreneurial mindset in a multitude of pursuits. 

This summer two Jr. Bills are studying abroad in Russia and China, respectively, through the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program.

SLUH's Chinese program remains one of the longest standing programs in the Midwest – and, given China’s global influence, it is exceedingly relevant.

Championships in Rugby, Volleyball and Water Polo brought the 2018-19 school year talley to a remarkable seven state titles, including Swimming, Ice Hockey, Racquetball and Riflery.

Tim Curdt '90, Director of SLUH's Learning Center, discusses how SLUH is applying the latest brain-based research to its curriculum and support services.

Matt DeGreef '85 provides students and families helpful tips on achieving success in selective college admissions.

Director of College Counseling Kevin Crimmins provides some perspective on navigating a highly competitive college admissions landscape.

Liam John '19 reflects on the spiritual power of retreats and service, as well as a ceramics wheel.

Fr. Joseph Hill, SJ, Chair of Campus Ministry, shares how SLUH will preserve and enrich the heart of its campus.

SLUH is committed to creating lasting and positive change with numerous initiatives to ensure equity and inclusion.

Antwine Willis ‘19 developed the confidence and faith in himself, despite tremendous challenges, to become one of the dynamic leaders of his graduating class.

Sean Ferrell ’88, the Blues video coach who assists with skills development, made history by becoming the first St. Louis native coach to win the Stanley Cup.

Nine rising seniors were accepted to the Students and Teachers as Research Scientists (STARS) Program at University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL).

SLUH celebrated 200 years of excellence with the announcement of Go Forth, a campaign investing $70 million in financial accessibility, program excellence and a 21st century campus.

SLUH kicked off Black History Month with an all-school assembly that celebrated the accomplishments of black alumni and featured keynote remarks from Daniel Heard '04.

The new James Guth Costigan '62 Innovation Lab will help capture the creative mind of the community, explore innovative ways to learn about God’s creation and improve our planet.

The senior class put solidarity in action this January in St. Louis and beyond, providing more than 30,000 hours of community service at 66 sites in five countries.

Nearly 50 students showed solidarity with the unborn at the March for Life in Washington, D.C., an event attended by thousands of supporters from across the country.

Head football coach Mike 'The Tackle' Jones shared the Super Bowl stage with SLUH in a national CBS Sports feature viewed by more than five million people.

College Counseling continues to make great strides in building a comprehensive program aimed at providing students and families the support they need.

Check out the latest issue of Sisyphus, SLUH's Magazine of Literature and Art, as well as a new video highlighting the school's fine arts program.

In the face of the recent near-historic snowstorm, our entire city seemed to go belly up as we retreated into our homes to wait it out. I did something similar, but instead of retreating into my own house, I built my own: Inuit style.

Two state titles and a quest for another state – and a national – championship highlight this winter sports season, with great promise and potential on the horizon this spring.

This past fall, students and faculty gathered for a unique assembly designed to encourage reflection about the range of neighborhoods represented in the fictive neighborhood of SLUH.

One year after veteran broadcaster Steve Schlanger '89 called one of the most exciting moments in U.S. winter Olympics history, he graced SLUH's Father/Son Banquet as the featured speaker.

Tony '57 and Donna Dill are making The J. Anthony '57 and Donna M. Dill Center for Academic Success a reality through their extraordinary generosity.

Tom Pisoni '80 continues to show a resilient, generous spirit after suffering a life-altering accident nearly 40 years ago.

Longtime retreat leader John Lally '80 reflects on his experiences at White House and the value of dedicating a few days each year to God.

David Giuntoli '98 is playing the lead role of Eddie Saville in ABC's hit show A Million Little Things. Learn more about Giuntoli and other alumni highlights.

Over the years, one alumnus has observed a slightly different twist on the Ignatian "men for others" dictum that is equally, if not more remarkable.

SLUH baseball is celebrating 100 years of excellence! Listen to a SLUH Archive conversation with baseball legend Steve Nicollerat and learn about top moments in the program's history.

Fr. Paul Hoesing, Dean of Seminarians at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary, provided keynote remarks to the AMDG group at SLUH on January 24.

Registration is open for summer programs at SLUH, including robotics, Upward Bound, athletic camps and drivers education. 

Little did Eugene Hennessy '25 know that, as he pumped gas at a Shell Oil service station in the late 1920s, he was launching a career that would change everything.

On September 20, 2018, soccer alumni celebrated the program’s 75th anniversary at the SLUH-Vianney home game.

St. Ignatius envisioned the world as a place where Christ loved and served, a place of grace and of giving life to others. SLUH embraces a global education model that illuminates Ignatius’ vision while providing students the tools to succeed in a diverse, interdependent and rapidly changing world – in our own metropolitan area and thousands of miles away.

Learning, prayer and discernment are complemented by a healthy dose of adventure for novices as they prepare to take vows in the Society of Jesus. Since the late 1960s, many Jesuit provinces have incorporated a month-long pilgrimage as part of the Novitiate, the first stage of becoming a Jesuit. While each pilgrimage is unique, they’re all distinguished by total reliance on God through “genuine faith and intense love.”

When St. Ignatius wrote his autobiography, he reflected on his life and realized it was something far deeper and more meaningful than a journey. He was a pilgrim, and his entire life had been a pilgrimage – a revelation from which we can all learn.

SLUH has announced a donation of a soon-to-be-retreat center sitting on 88 acres of beautiful land located just north of Troy in Silex, Mo.

SLUH President David Laughlin presented the Backer Award, the highest honor bestowed on the school's alumni, to five distinguished Jr. Bills this spring.

Actor Chris O'Donnell and his brother John, founder of Johnnie-O apparel company, saluted SLUH with their best rendition of 'Happy Birthday' at Cashbah and the Bicentennial celebration.

Alumni from around the country returned to SLUH and shared their experiences of working for the common good, inspiring students to use their own gifts and talents for others.

SLUH, the oldest high school west of the Mississippi River, celebrated its Bicentennial with more than 4,000 attendees at an outdoor Mass and campus-wide festival.

Veteran broadcaster has called exciting action for the Tour de France, MLB, NBA and PGA, but his most acclaimed moment came this winter during his fourth consecutive Olympics.

Dr. Rollo Dilworth '87 brought his energy, perspectives and musical expertise as the keynote speaker for SLUH's all-school assembly that kicked off Black History Month.

The ice hockey team, deservedly dubbed #30ManRoster by fans, was marked by incredible depth and talent, and kicked off a string of championships by racquetball, volleyball and water polo.

Congratulations to Stephen Schumacher '08 and George Staley '10 on being two of the seven men ordained to the transitional diaconate in the Archdiocese of St. Louis. And congratulations to Will Smith '14 for earning a Fulbright Scholarship, and to many others in Class Notes.

It's not often a Jesuit high school turns 200. Just as infrequent are spontaneous, personal encounters with the Pope. The odds of both happening at the same time? Providential.

For the past 13 years, David Laughlin has led SLUH as the first lay – and longest serving – President in the school's history. He leaves a lasting legacy as he begins a new chapter as President of Rockhurst High School.

Dr. Paul Young '68 always knew he wanted to become a doctor, but he could not have imagined how a service trip to Africa in 1999 would impact his future and affect the lives of many in an underdeveloped part of the world.

Fr. Ralph Houlihan, S.J. '52 reflected on what we are doing for Christ relative to SLUH's 200-year history at the Bicentennial Mass.

This year's auction, themed Bicentennial Ball, punctuated SLUH's longstanding commitment of admitting students based on their ability to learn and not their families' economic circumstances.

In this and future issues of the SLUH Magazine, the SLUH Archive presents 'From the Archive' to keep our rich history alive, while inviting contributions of artifacts, materials and memories.

Fr. Michael "Marco" Marchlewski, S.J. '54 remains active at SLUH and looks ahead with energy, enthusiasm and gratitude.

A sold-out group of alumni, parents and friends came out in support of our scholarship program at the 6th annual event.

Today, after a long career, Carl Shack '54 is helping Jr. Bills receive a quality education through his own generosity.

On October 20, all students and faculty/staff dedicated more than 3,000 service hours to 20 organizations in the metropolitan area in gratitude to the City of St. Louis for 200 years of partnership and support.

For more than 50 years, Upward Bound has helped thousands of young men prepare for the rigors of high school. Today it continues to adapt, grow and flourish, illuminating the school's Jesuit mission of working for the Common Good.

SLUH's new INSIGNIS podcast features lively interviews with members of our school community engaged in a variety of roles and fascinating projects "down the hall, across the Metro area and around the world" in support of our mission. 

Joe Castellano's new book reveals the tragedy, triumph and resilient spirit that defined SLUH's remarkable, even unlikely 1970 football championship season.

Accomplished jazz pianist Chris Walters '80 appreciates fine tunes and lessons from his old music teacher.

Check out upcoming events, including our alumni art exhibit that is open now and culminates with a reception on November 30.

The Pope Francis Fund, established by the Class of '62, provides a better, more inclusive experience for the entire SLUH community.

The Class of ’68 exemplifies the enduring friendships formed among SLUH graduates.

Reality television guru Steve Luebbert '00 knows a thing or two about media and scrambling eggs in his teacher's front yard.

Alumni classes ending in 2 or 7 celebrated reunions this fall, with the Classes of 2002, 2007 and 2012 celebrating over Thanksgiving weekend.