Nola Ilchene Theiss
Class of 1964 ~ West

Nola Theiss has worn many hats in her life and traveled down three different career paths. She has taught English and photography, owned her own business, and has served as the Mayor of Sanibel Island, Florida. She is currently the Founder and Executive Director of "Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships." She has spoken about human trafficking to over 14,000 people in five countries, helping to increase awareness of this problem and calling others to action throughout the world.

Nola Theiss holds a Masters in Public Administration as well as degrees from Johns Hopkins and the University of Illinois. She fights against human trafficking through public awareness, using her multitude of talents and experiences.

Memories of Leyden: "Mr. Loprieno and his willingness to go the extra mile with students who needed to learn about the larger world is my best memory. My love of art, history, and sense of dedication to those in need came from him, and my feeling that I could and must make a difference was his gift to me."

James R. Weigand
Class of 1973 ~ East

Mr. Weigand is the President of DuPont Sustainable Solutions, USA in Wilmington, Delaware.  In this role, "Mr. Weigand leads a global solutions business specializing in transforming workplaces and work cultures with services and technologies that bring about sustained improvements in safety, operational and environmental performance."  He continues to build on his very successful 30-year career at DuPont where he has held numerous positions and leadership roles.

He is involved in his community and has made many contributions to organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Special Olympics, and the United Way.  In addition, he serves on the Arizona State University Carey School of Business Leadership Advisory Board.

Memories of Leyden:  "Representing East Leyden on the basketball court and the baseball field as well as the friends I hung around with and the teachers that inspired me (Ralph Schuler, Gene McCormack, Art Reisman, Judy Wright and Norm Goodman)."

Dr. Daniel Martinez
Class of 1986 ~ East

Dr. Martinez is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. He is the President of Comprehensive Clinical Services, a multi-specialty mental health clinic. In addition, he is the Psychiatric Services Coordinator for Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.  He attended Loyola University, Stritch School of Medicine where he earned his M.D. degree.  He completed his residency at Loyola University Media Center.  

He has received numerous awards, including the Pfizer Psychiatry Resident of the Year (1997), the Dr. Jorge Prieto Medical Achievement Award (2005), and the Welford Award in Community Mental Health (2008).  

Memories of Leyden: "I received an award by the Kiwanis Club.  I recall getting an award at a breakfast at Denny's on Mannheim.  The recognition I received is among the best memories of Leyden."

ALUMNI WALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

1988	1989	1990	1991	1992
1993	1994	1995	1996	1997
1998	1999	2000	2001	2002
2003	2004	2005	2006	2007
2008	2009	2010

2010 Inductees
Barbara Cascio Class of 1976 ~ West Barb Cascio graduated from West Leyden High School in 1976.  After high school, she attended Triton College earning an Associate’s degree in Police Science in 1978, and then attended Lewis University earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in 1980. In 1980, she was the first female to be hired as a police officer in Franklin Park.  Upon completion of her police training at the Police Training Institute in Champaign, Illinois, she was voted by her classmates as the recipient of the Irvin H. Warren Award.  This is given to the most outstanding cadet and the one most likely to succeed in the field of law enforcement.  From there she rose through the ranks to Detective, Sergeant, Commander and then Deputy Chief of Police.  She spent a great deal of her career working with youth.  According to Ms. Cascio, the highlight of her career took place at East Leyden when she served as the police liaison officer from 1995 to 2002.  She touched the lives of many students.  In addition, she served as “Officer Friendly” for 27 years; two generations of Franklin Park’s elementary students have been influenced by Ms. Cascio’s instruction and guidance. Her message to Leyden students is this:  “That one person really can make a difference in the lives of others, even if it is a small difference in this large world.  A person’s character is her destiny.  It is the hopes and dreams we have that make us great.  It is important to believe in yourself, remain loyal and honest, and if you put your mind to it, you can accomplish whatever you set out to do.”	Ronald F. Gibbs Class of 1964 ~ West Ronald Gibbs graduated from West Leyden High School in 1964.  He served his country in Vietnam and Germany as a Captain in the U.S. Army.  He went on to Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.  He then earned a Master in Public Administration degree from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.  In addition, Mr. Gibbs has studied at The Hague Academy of International Law, where he earned a Certificate in International Human Rights.  He also studied at the London School of Economics. Mr. Gibbs is the President of National and International Public Affairs Consulting, located in Washington, D.C. and Chicago.  He also is an adjunct professor at the University of Chicago, Harris School of Public Policy. He spearheaded the passage of legislation establishing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. and served on the Board.  As Jan Scruggs, President of the Vietnam Memorial Fund stated in his book, To Heal a Nation, “Ron spent many hours walking the halls of Congress.  He never asked for public recognition or acclaim.  His only desire was to see the names of the 58,000 killed in Vietnam inscribed in a place of honor.”  He founded The Kim Foundation with Kim Phuc, whose Pulitzer Prize winning photo was captured by Nick Ut as her village was napalmed during the Vietnam War.  His message to Leyden students:  “A good education can be your key to success.  Seek to empower yourself.  Continually seek to make a difference—with family and friends.  Look to help others in the community, nationally and globally.  Believe in the ‘power of an idea’ to bring about social change whether in your community, nationally, or internationally.”
Tracy M. Rizzo Class of 1989 ~ East Tracy Rizzo graduated from East Leyden in 1989.  She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Rosary College in 1993 and her Juris Doctorate in 1996 from John Marshall Law School in Chicago.  After law school she worked at Nadler, Pritikin and Mirabelli, practicing family law.  In July of 2002, after five years of practicing, Tracy Rizzo ventured out and created her own law firm, Law Offices of Tracy M. Rizzo, P.C., which she continues to operate today.  Her practice concentrates on all areas of family law:  divorce, paternity, custody, maintenance, child support and property division.  In June of 2000, she was recognized by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.  She earned the Award of Merit because of her outstanding commitment to the protection of children and the knowledge of the Hague international child abduction issues.  In addition, Ms. Rizzo has been featured in Chicago magazine and Shore magazine.  Ms. Rizzo is a member of the Illinois Bar Association, Justinian Society of Lawyers, American Bar Association and the Chicago Bar Association. Her message to Leyden students: “You can accomplish any goal in life as long as you focus on your dreams, work hard, and make it happen.  But never forget that having a close relationship with your family and friends is truly what is important in life.”

 

2009 Inductees
Jane Guill Class of 1971 ~ West Jane Guill is a published author. Her first novel, Nectar from a Stone, was published in 2005 by Simon and Schuster and is now on thousands of library shelves in the United States! Jane published dozens of short stories in literary magazines. She received two Illinois Arts Council Awards for prose and has been nominated three times for the Pushcart Prize. Jane attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and went on to work as a graphic artist, then as an archaeological illustrator. Eventually she changed her creative focus from art to writing. Jane is a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, the Authors Guild, and the Historical Novelists Society. Her message to Leyden students, “The future isn’t as remote as you may think; it’s just ahead like an oasis—but it’s real.”	Richard E. Nardini Class of 1952 ~ East Richard E. Nardini worked at The Chicago Sun-Times for fifty-six years. At the time of his retirement, he was their longest standing employee! He started as a messenger and retired as the Director of Classified Advertising and Advertising Promotion and Production. He is the only non-owner and non-editorialist in Sun-Times history to have a bronze plaque for outstanding achievement. Richard Nardini was elected and served as a Leyden School Board member for 36 years, 29 of those as President. In addition, Mr. Nardini volunteers at Hines Veterans Hospital. His message to Leyden students, “Enjoy your opportunity for an excellent education. Take part in the many activities the school offers. Enjoy yourself and make friends. They will be with you for the rest of your life. Your Leyden years are some of the best years you will ever have.”
Bradley Stephens Class of 1981 ~ East Bradley Stephens is currently the mayor of Rosemont, Illinois. Before his appointment as Mayor, he was a Village Trustee for 18 years. He also served as Leyden Township Supervisor for nearly 16 years. Mr. Stephens is an enthusiastic volunteer of both his time and talents. He is on the Board of Directors for the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Also, he is an active fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Children’s Memorial Hospital. He is involved in supporting various youth programs through Leyden Township. He is the co-founder of Leyden Eagles Youth Travel Baseball and Softball. His message to Leyden students, “Stay focused and diligent on your studies and activities. Enjoy every day you are here and never forget where you came from.”	Richard Heckinger Class of 1966 ~ West Richard Heckinger is currently a Senior Policy Advisor in the Financial Markets Group at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Richard started his career in financial markets at the Chicago Board Options Exchange in 1973. In the 1990s he was the Chief Operating Officer of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong. He volunteers regularly for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and informally counsels cancer survivors. He earned a Masters Degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London, and a Bachelors Degree in Math from Illinois State University. His message to Leyden students, “Look for opportunities that might not be too obvious and follow your passion.”
Guy Porfirio Class of 1977 ~ East Guy Porfirio is a freelance illustrator. He started drawing as a kid and no one ever told him to stop! Over the years he filled his walls and notebooks with sketches of cars, airplanes, and an occasional portrait of Megan, his dog. When he was old enough, he enrolled in the American Academy of Art in Chicago. After graduating, he worked as an illustrator at a Chicago agency. Eventually he moved to Tucson to try his hand at freelancing. Years later, he is still in Tuscon with his family and living out his dream. He has received numerous awards for his illustrations. His message to Leyden students, “No matter what we want to make happen in our lives, there is real joy in moving towards that goal no matter how slow or unattainable it may seem at the time. Nothing is impossible, and not everything has been done before.”

 

2008 Inductees

Ms. Karyn Fritz Brown Class of 1985 Karyn Fritz Brown is currently a faculty member at Mississippi State University in Starkville , Mississippi . She is an instructor and coordinator of broadcasting in the Department of Communications. She oversees the student-produced shows. She has much to offer her students, as her experience in communications is plentiful. She has worked as an anchor, producer and director of WWIR-TV in Macomb , Illinois . In Columbus , Mississippi she was a general assignment reporter for WCBI-TV (CBS affiliate) where she was responsible for reporting, writing and editing news stories and performing live coverage of events. She also served as a fill-in anchor and producer. Ms. Brown earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication and Political Science from Augustana College in Rock Island , Illinois and a Master of Arts in Public Communications and Broadcasting from Western Illinois University , Macomb , Illinois . Her message to Leyden students: “Focus on being yourself, not what others tell you to be. If you stay true to yourself, your talents and skills will be recognized.”

Mr.Floyd M. Yager Class of 1985 Floyd Yager is currently the Assistant Vice President of Product Operations for Allstate Insurance Company, in Northbrook , Illinois . He has had other titles at Allstate: Assistant Vice President of Research and Development and Senior Actuary, to name a few. He manages day-to-day internal operations for the Midwest Region of Allstate, where he is responsible for the growth and profit of the regional operation, including decisions on pricing, underwriting and marketing. He has been given the honor of the Allstate “Good Hands” Award for Outstanding Community Service. Mr. Yager earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute , Indiana . He earned a Masters in Business and Administration from the University of Illinois at Chicago. His message to Leyden students: “Work hard. The world is open to you, but do not expect things to be given to you. Take advantage of the opportunities you have before you. Have fun and work to make the world a better place.”

Dr. Karen Fitzner Class of 1966 Dr. Karen Fitzner is currently the Chief Science and Practice Officer of the American Association of Diabetes Educators. She provides leadership, guidance and support for the association's research efforts and evidence based practice guidance program. She is an active member of the National Diabetes Education Program. In addition, she is the Board President of HOPE of the Northwestern Memorial Foundation. She is the founder of the Professional Women in Health committee. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree at Illinois State University , and her Master of Science in Economics in Social Policy and Planning from The London School of Economics. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Hong Kong . She has given numerous presentations on four continents and written various publications regarding health care and health care management. In addition, she has numerous professional certificates earned in a variety of health-related areas. Her message to Leyden students is: “Believe in yourself. Savor your educational opportunities and be willing to try the unusual—but always have a goal in mind.”

Mayor Jeffrey T. Sherwin Class of 1971 Jeff Sherwin is currently in his third term as the Mayor of Northlake, Illinois . He is a life-long resident of Northlake and has a strong commitment to the community. As Mayor, he has improved and established many new parks for residents. With his help, the City now has a Senior Citizens Center. New sidewalks, streets and sewers have gone into many areas of the town, and much has been done to improve Northlake's infrastructure. Under his administration Centerpoint Preserve has also seen improvements. He has served on the Library Board and the Fire Protection District. He has worked tirelessly on education referendums for district 212, 83 and 87. He is also active with the Kiwanis Club and the Knights of Columbus. Mayor Sherwin earned his Associates Degree from Triton College and then went on to Northeastern Illinois University to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then attained his law degree from Kent Law School . His message to Leyden students: “Set a goal and work towards it. You will be amazed at what you can accomplish.”

 

2007 Inductees

Leyden celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Alumni Wall of Fame. There were no new inductees this year.

 

2006 Inductees

Dr. Peter D. Chemello (Class of 1978) is a board certified oral surgeon with the Northwest Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center located in Arlington Heights and Elgin . In addition, he is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois College of Dentistry and lectures at the University of Pennsylvania . He was one of the original founders of the mobile dental clinic which gives dental care to needy people in the Wheeling , Palatine , and Elk Grove Townships . For the past fifteen years, Dr. Chemello has participated in the Elgin Dental Survey sponsored by the Junior League. He treats children in the U-46 school district that are identified to be in need. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Chicago Dental Society, and a Fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He attended Loyola University and the University of Illinois College of Dentistry. His message to Leyden students: “Any success starts from within. It is incumbent on each individual to seize the opportunity and make his best effort. Thinking that there is no chance will only insure you will have no chance. Opportunity exists everywhere.”

Mrs. Sence Wagner Feldmann (Class of 1978) is currently a certified nurse midwife at the Center for Women's Health at the University of Illinois Medical Center. She is a member of the American College of Nurse-Midwives. She earned her Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees from the University of Illinois , College of Nursing . In 1983, she received the Alumni Association Outstanding Leader Award. In addition, Mrs. Feldmann is the First Ward Alderwoman in the City of Northlake . She has served as the Treasurer and President of the Whittier School PTA. Over the years, she has been extremely active in the Leyden Bears Football and Cheerleading program and coached the Northlake softball team for girls. Her message to Leyden students, “If you think you can, you will. Believe in yourself!”

Mr. Ruben Melesio (Class of 1955) is the president and owner of the Highway Safety Corporation, which furnishes and installs traffic protection equipment. He is a member of the Illinois Road Builders Association and in the past has served on their Board of Directors. In addition, he has served as one of the founders and president of the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association. He has received national awards for being the Association's minority contractor of the year. He is also a member of the Shriners since 1971. Mr. Melesio is a long-time member of the Leyden Old Timers. His message to Leyden students is, “Choose your words wisely. People will judge you by them.”

 

2005 Inductees

REBECCA DAWSON KUNTZ (Class of 1979) is currently vice-president of Harris Nesbitt­Harris Bank's investment bank. She is responsible for selling new issue corporate loans to financial institutions. She manages the Firm's relationships with a diverse set of buyers in the loan market. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Loan Sales and Trading Association. In addition, she speaks frequently at industry conferences. Smith College , Rebecca's alma mater, benefits greatly from her involvement. She has helped to raise $1 million for Smith College in the past ten years, working as Special Gifts Chairperson. Also, Rebecca is an active member of the First United Church of Oak Park. Rebecca's message to Leyden students, "Hard work is never wasted. Don't be afraid to reach higher and don't listen when people tell you to scale back your expectations."

TERRY A. PIPER (Class of 1963) started working at Franklin Park-based Precision Steel Warehouse, Inc. in 1961 on a high school work study program. In 1999, he became its' CEO and President. His company has 220 employ­ees and $60 million in revenues. While working at Precision Steel, Terry earned his Associate of Arts degree from Wright Junior College and his Bachelor's degree from Elmhurst College . Terry, for the past 29 years, has been a football official for the IHSA. In addition, he has officiated for the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin for 12 years. Terry is also an active member of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Lafox , Illinois . Terry writes, "Finish high school. Don't go to college if you don't really want to. Learn at least one other foreign language. Get along with people."

The Village President/Mayor and Historian of Franklin Park, DANIEL PRITCHETT (Class of 1965) , is one of Leyden 's own! He has been in these two roles since 1996. He also serves as a member of the Franklin Park Chamber of commerce, and the co-founder of the Franklin Park Merchant's Association. He has brought to fruition many initiatives in the area, specifically, Franklin Park 's Veterans Memorial, October Fest, Classic Car Show, and Railroad Daze. He is instru­mental in the construction of the Grand Avenue Underpass project and the revitalization of downtown Franklin Park . In addition to his numerous duties in Franklin Park , he is pres­ident of Omar Electric. His message to Leyden students, "The four years at Leyden go by so fast, but the lessons and memories will last a lifetime. Go for all you can.

LUCIA KAMM-STEIGELMAN (Class of 1965) is a Distinguished Scholar and Associate Professor of Women's Wellness in the Wellstar Department of Nursing, at Kennesaw State Universiry in Georgia . She earned her B.A. degree from Dominican Universiry, a M.S.N. from Rush Universiry, an M.B.A. from Bowling Green State Universiry. and a Ph.D. from Emory Universiry. She is a member of numerous profes­sional organizations and has been involved in several research proj­ects in nursing. In addition, she is a motivational speaker and runs a transition planning business for mid-life women. Her message to Leyden students. "Maintain your dream of the person you want to be. and the goals you want to achieve. Believe in something larger than yourself."

 

2004 Inductees

Jonathan Cain (John Friga - Class of 1968), longtime member of the band Journey, has been performing, writing and recording music since the eighties. As a song writer, his songs have been recorded by Michael Bolton, Sammy Hagar, Kenny Rogers, the band Heart, Greg Allman, Maria Carey and many others. He co-authored the songs, "Who's Crying Now," "Don't Stop Believin,'" "Faithfully" and "Open Arms." Jonathan has a successful solo career as well, as he has written a series of well received new age albums. In 1999, he received the RIAA Diamond Award for selling over 10 million copies of Journey-Greatest Hits. He was also the recipient of many Bay Area Music Awards and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Journey's song, "When You Love a Woman." Jonathan's message to Leyden students is "to take education seriously, to make the most out of every class and every assignment, to evolve and to improve as a student."

Matt Janz (Class of 1988), has been cartooning since the age of 8. When he was 11 years old his collection of cartoons, "Dumbells," was published by the Franklin Park Library. He is currently a syndicated cartoonist with the Washington Post Writers Group. His cartoon, Out of the Gene Pool, appears in newspapers worldwide, including the Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, New York Daily News, Seattle Times, and The Taiwan News. Syndicated cartooning is an extremely competitive field, as syndicates receive thousands of comic strip submissions and syndicate only a few each year. In addition, Matt works part-time as a graphic artist and art director at BSA Advertising in Chicago. Matt's message to Leyden students is "you can achieve anything if you set your mind to it; persistence does pay off!

Manuel Flores (Class of 1990)- The youngest member of the Chicago City Council, Manuel "Manny" Flores, was sworn into office on May 5, 2003. Manny has built an impressive career, demonstrating his dedication to public service and to crime prevention. Prior to being elected Alderman, Manny served as Cook County Assistant State's Attorney. Manny also served as an aide to Congressman Luis Gutierrez. Manny is a member of the Hispanic Illinois State Law Enforcement Association, and an active participant in the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) program. He also founded Fuerza, a not-for-profit educational advocacy organization that works with Chicago high school students. Manny earned a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from Rosary College and a law degree from George Washington University Law School. His message to Leyden students is "to work hard and commit to intellectual development and other extra-curricular activities that will provide broader experiences outside the classroom."

Robyn Chavarrie McCluskey (Class of 1984), is currently the Senior Manager for the Restaurant Business Services with eMac Digital, McDonalds Corporation based in Oak Brook, Illinois. She has worked with McDonald's Corporation for the last ten years in a variety of positions with increased levels of responsibility. Robyn's dedication and hard work has earned her numerous recognition awards during her career at McDonalds. She earned the most prestigious McDonald's President's Award in 2000, only given to the top 1% of employees. Robyn earned her Bachelor's Degree and Master's of Business and Administration from DePaul University with high honors. Robyn's message to Leyden students is "to get involved in the activities and events offered in high school. These very experiences will benefit you later in life."

 

2003 Inductees

Karen Alber (Class of 1982), is currently vice president of PepsiCo Integration Management Office. She is responsible for a company-wide effort to standardize PepsiCo business processes and systems across four divisions: Frito-Lay, Quaker Food and Beverages, Tropicana and Pepsi North America. Prior to the merger with PepsiCo, Karen held positions of increasing responsibility with Quaker Oats in plant operations, production planning, purchasing, supply chain implementation, internal consulting, and enterprise systems. Karen's areas of expertise include supply-chain strategy, enterprise solutions, change management, performance measurement, process improvement, and supply- chain synchronization. Karen has been promoted 10 times in her 15-year career. She became vice president of this Fortune 500 company at age 37. Karen is an internationally-recognized speaker at conferences, workshops and industry functions around the globe and is often cited in trade publications. She was recently portrayed on the cover of Consumer Goods Technology magazine in June 2002 as one of "The 25 Most Influential Executives" in the industry. Karen earned her bachelor's degree in Operations Management from the University of Iowa and an MBA from Loyola University. Her message to Leyden students is "to take advantage of your high school years-participate-go above and beyond what you think you can do and make the most of it. It's the only chance you'll get."

Jim Fredrickson (Class of 1981), is the owner of Gym-Kinetics Gymnastic School, located in Mokena, Illinois, and recently a second gym has been added in New Lenox, Illinois. In 1985 he opened his school, working as president and head coach, while maintaining a job as a full-time carpenter. Enrollment which started at 60 students per week is now up to 2,000 students per week. Jim was named Coach of the Year in 1993 by USA Gymnastics. He has coached 230 state champions, 24 regional champions, and 12 national champions. In 1987, 1988, 1989 and 1990 he coached the state championship Boys' Team. He has coached numerous regional events and all- around champions. Over the past ten years he has coached Junior Olympic National Champions. In addition, he has coached four USA Junior Olympic National Team members. He has been the Region 5 National Team coach for the past 8 years. His coaching has taken him abroad to England and France. Many of his students have gone on to receive athletic scholarships at universities across the country. Jim writes, "A goal is not a dream and a dream is not a goal. Do not wait for a dream to come true, but set goals that are attainable. Once you set a goal you must be relentless in your work habits until you achieve that goal. Take chances while you are young and don't be afraid to fail. Don't grow old saying I'm going to, or I should have. Goals-set them and get them!"

Steve Tanner (Class of 1982), is a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force. He is a fighter pilot currently stationed in Aviano Air Force Base in Italy flying the F-16. He received his flight training at Williams Air Force Base in Arizona. There he was named outstanding graduate, ranked # 2 overall, and was selected to fly the F-15 Fighter. In Okinawa, Japan while flying the F-15, he was named the Top Gun Wingman and the Top Gun Flight Lead. At Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas, he was a T-38 Instructor Pilot and named the outstanding graduate from Squadron Officers' School. He has over 2600 of flight time in the F-15 and F-16. He has flown in combat over Iraq. He earned his B.A. at the United States Air Force Academy, where he was ranked #1 in his class in Engineering Sciences. He went on to earn an M.B.A. at Midwestern State University, magna cum laude. His message to Leyden students is simple," It's a tough world out there. You can either take your education seriously and have good opportunities in life, or you can dismiss your education and have limited opportunities. The choice is yours!"

Dr. Pam Kibbons (Class of 1984), has been the principal of Thompson Middle School in St. Charles, Illinois since 1999. She is also an adjunct faculty member at Loyola University and Aurora University. At the university level, she lectures graduate students in the areas of educational leadership and policy studies, school administration, and supervision. Before her principalship, Dr. Kibbons was the Assistant Principal at Wredling Middle School in St. Charles, Illinois. She began her teaching career in District #87 in Northlake, Illinois. There, she taught general music and coordinated special holiday programs, choirs, and graduation ceremonies. She owned her own business, Studio 88, from 1986 to 1996, which was responsible for providing keyboard and instrumental instruction to 300 weekly clients. Dr. Kibbons earned her B.A. at Elmhurst College, an M.S. from National Louis University, and a Ph.D. from Loyola University. Dr. Kibbons wrote upon receiving this award, "this has boosted my energy level and encouraged me to seek new challenges in the future. Leyden is a place that supports diversity and a well-balanced academic and extra-curricular education."

 

2002 Inductees

John F. Kozlowski (Class of 1968), is currently a senior organic chemist for analytical development at Eli Lilly and Company, Tippecanoe Laboratories in Lafayette, Indiana. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry with honors from Knox College. He went on to earn two degrees from Purdue University: a Master of Science in Physical Organic Chemistry and a Master of Science in Analytical Chemistry. He is published in many major scientific journals and received his first patent at the age of twenty-four. In addition, Mr. Kozlowski has contributed to research programs on five continents. His message to Leyden students is to "Enjoy this time in your life, but remember that, at any age or at any time, you can be a force to improve or change the world. Make somebody happy; make somebody strong."

Anita Dilillo Kuhnle, D.V.M.(Class of 1977), is an associate veterinarian at the Arlington Heights Animal Hospital in Arlington Heights, Illinois. She earned her Bachelor of Veterinary Science and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees from the University of Illinois, where she graduated second in her class with high honors. She was on the Dean's List all seven years of her schooling and was placed on the National Dean's List. She did her externship in Southlake, Texas, at the Golden Triangle Animal Hospital, where she treated horses and cattle and performed a variety of surgeries on large and small animals. Presently she is an accomplished soft tissue surgeon; she is also proud of her training and experience with a variety of dogs. She provides medical care for exotic mammals, and in 1991, she was given the Nine Lives Veterinary Excellence Award. Dr. Kuhnle's message to Leyden students is "Times may change, but setting goals and working hard to achieve them will never be outmoded."

Deborah A. Miller, PhD. (Class of 1970), is a full professor and health coordinator at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. She earned both her Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees from the University of Illinois. Her Doctoral degree was earned in 1982 from the University of Oregon. Dr. Miller taught previously in Illinois at Niles North Junior High School and Nazareth Academy and coached at De Paul University. She is an accomplished author, having written and published many books, one winning the New York Public Library's Best Book Award, Coping With Incest. Dr. Miller won the Distinguished Advising Award from the College of Charleston, of which she is particularly proud. Additionally, she won the Founder's Award for Excellence in Teaching and the Professor of the Year Award. When notified of her selection to the Alumni Wall of Fame, Dr. Miller wrote, "I can hardly wait to walk the hallowed halls of East Leyden once again, as every hallway brings back very fond memories."

Kelle Zech Reynolds (Class of 1985), is a forest wildlife biologist and cave coordinator at the Hoosier National Forest in Bedford, Indiana. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife from Purdue University . She prepares wildlife reports and biological evaluations for vegetation, wildlife, recreation, engineering and special use activities that occur in the forest. She coordinates all of this with federal, state, and local governmental agencies and universities. She also oversees the forest cave program, including locating new caves, completing cave inventories, coordinating with volunteers, and completing cave management plans. Before her work in Indiana, Ms. Reynolds was a wildlife biologist and forester at the Deschutes National Forest in Crescent, Oregon. Her message to Leyden students is "Your years at Leyden form the foundation for the remainder of your life. Make those years productive and fun. After graduation, continue to build on that foundation. You can go anywhere and do anything."

 

2001 Inductees

Dr. Maria Ann Atkins (Class of 1985) is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine in Portland, Maine. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry from the University of Illinois in 1989 and a Degree of Osteopathy from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in June 1993. At her commencement in the Rockefeller Cathedral in Chicago, she delivered the graduation speech. She completed her internship at Rush/Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center in Chicago where she held the position of Intern Representative to the Administration. She was the chief resident at Brighton Medical Center in Portland, Maine. Dr. Atkins has a simple and direct message to Leyden students - work hard!

Ms. Suzanne Elliott Belish (Class of 1969) currently is the Curriculum and Special Programs Director at the Sheridan County School District in Ranchester, Wyoming. She oversees curriculum, instruction, accreditation, assessment, staff development, special education, gifted education, federal programs and grants. She started her career at Rhodes School in River Grove, Illinois, as a third grade teacher. Before her present position, Ms. Belish was the Tongue River Middle School Principal in Ranchester, Wyoming. She won the prestigious Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award in 1995.

The Honorable Paul Sacco (Class of 1971) is an Attorney at Law in Greeley, Colorado and a Municipal Judge in the City of Ft. Lupton, Colorado. He has represented dependent and neglected children from dysfunctional families in over 100 cases over a period of six years. He has also created youth sentencing and diversion programs that alleviate the problems of young children. One of his well-known accomplishments is his "music immersion" program, incorporating creative sentencing.

Dr. Dennis Pietrini (Class of 1963) has been a practicing dentist with the Franklin Park Dental Associates, Ltd. since 1978. He started his dental career in the U.S. Navy Dental Corps in 1970, and in 1972 he began his private dental practice. He was named the Man of the Year in 1988 by the Italian Cultural Center. He is listed in Who's Who in Dentistry and three times served as Chairman of the Department of Oral Medicine at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, where he has also been a member of the Credentials Committee. He is a pioneer in the field of laser dentistry and his work is known and respected in the industry. Dr. Pietrini believes hard work and perseverance are the keys to success. The Alumni Wall of Fame award is extremely special to him as it is a 'birthday gift' to his father who will turn 80 in 2001.

 

2000 Inductees

Connie Frybarger Bretz Class of 1945 Writer/Oral Storyteller for 33 years Teacher/Consultant 1,013 credits in publishing Winner of numerous awards/honors in storytelling Nominated for Pulitzer Prize "Children that Care" volunteer	Laura Farley Erickson Class of 1969 Currently working on Ph.D. through University of Minnesota-St. Paul in avian physiology Ornithologist/Writer Radio writer/producer "For the Birds" Published For the Birds: An Uncommon Guide Published Sharing the Wonder of Birds with Kids-- winner of the National Outdoor Book Award Contributing writer--Minneapolis Star-Tribune Winner of numerous awards/honors in research and rehabilitation of birds
Tom Dore Class of 1975 Two-time All-State and one year All-American Prep basketball player Center for University of Missouri--1976-1980 Play-by-Play Announcer for Chicago Bulls on Fox Sports Net On-site host and play-by-play for NCAA Division One college basketball tournaments 1994 Sportscaster of the Year Award given by the Illinois chapter of the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association	Dr. Mark Benedetto Class of 1973 BS, Texas Wesleyan University, Forth Worth, Texas MA, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio Ed.S and Ed.D, Loma Linda University, Riverside, California University of Sioux Falls, President East Texas Baptist University--Vice President of Student Services California Baptist College--Vice President of Student Affairs, Athletic Director, Head Baseball Coach U.S.A. Athletes in Action, Colorado Springs, CO
Daniel A. Netzel Class of 1953 B.S. in Chemistry, University of Illinois M.S. in Physical-Inorganic Chemistry, University of Missouri, Kansas City Ph.D. in Physical-Analytical Chemistry, Northwestern University Principal Scientist/Senior Research Scientist--Western Research Institute Organizer and Developer of Denver Analytical Conference --national and international conference in the field of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy Published numerous studies and contributed to several books

 

 

1999 Inductees

Carl Amari is Chief Executive Officer of Radio Spirits, Inc., the company he founded in 1977. It has annual sales of $5.2 million, including catalog sales of old-time radio show tapes. He produces "When Radio Was," a nationally syndicated radio show. He hosts its weekend edition on WMAQ radio. The company also has an exclusive licensing and distribution agreement with the Smithsonian Institution.

Ruth Bradof Blaha earned a degree from the American Academy of Art in Chicago. For ten years she worked for sales promotion agencies, during which she launched the Happy Meal campaign for McDonald's. In 1982 she started her own agency with a $5000.00 investment. The company, which specializes in technology accounts, is now international with annual revenues exceeding $20 million. Her accounts include IBM and Kodak.

Richard Boubek graduated in 1954 as a Second Lieutenant from the Air Force's Aviation Cadet and Officer's Training Program. He spent six years in the Strategic Air Command, including being on alert during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Named a "Top Gun," he also served in Korea and Vietnam. He retired as a Major with 26 Military Awards and Decorations. Subsequently he worked for 20 years as a United Airlines pilot.

Glen Grunwald is the only four time All-Star player in the history of Illinois high school basketball. He was also the co-captain of the Indiana University NCAA basketball champions. Drafted by the Boston Celtics, injury prevented him from playing. After earning a law degree from Northwestern University, he was a lawyer for the Denver Nuggets for several years. Presently he is General Manager of the Toronto Raptors.

1998 Inductees

ARTHUR STEVEN ARRIAGA CLASS OF 1966	PATRICIA CUPURO, RN-CS,ACNP,MSN CLASS OF 1984
Arthur Arriaga served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 to 1970, including a tour of duty in Viet Nam. Trained in the military, Mr. Arriaga worked as an electrician after the Air Force. In 1992, he started his own business -- A and C Electric Company, Inc., which has gross annual sales of $1.2 million. Mr. Arriaga, owner and president of this MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) in Elk Grove Village, received the 1994 Electrical Contractor of the Year Award from the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) and also 4th place for Contractor of the Year from the U.S. State Department. Arriaga met his wife-to-be at West Leyden. Married 30 years and with two sons, Mr. Arriaga has been very family and community oriented. He coached Little League and Soccer League and was a Chief in the Indian Guides and Trail Blazers programs. Presently he is a Board Member of the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association, trustee at his church, director of a softball league, an officer in his local electrical union, and associate founder of Adult Children of Alcoholics in Arlington Heights. A Junior Achievement Instructor at East Leyden for three years, he received a J.A. Service Award. Busy and productive, Art Arriaga is a fine role model for Leyden students and for his grandson.	Patricia Cupuro earned a B.S. degree in Nursing in 1988 from Northern Illinois University and a Master's degree in Nursing, Trauma/ Critical Care, with an Advanced Practicum in Trauma, in 1994, from Loyola University. Sine 1995 she has been a Trauma Nurse Practitioner at Good Samaritan Hospital. She helps to manage trauma patient care beginning in the Emergency Room, then into Intensive Care, and on through post discharge follow-up in the trauma clinic. She worked for one year at Rush-Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center as a Pediatric Critical Care Nurse. Prior to that she worked at Children's Memorial Hospital for six years as a Family Care Coordinator in the Emergency Department of a Level 1 Trauma Center. Certified in Advanced Burn Life Support and Advanced Trauma Life Support, she also teaches courses in trauma medicine at such hospitals as Christ Hospital, Loyola University Medical Center, and Rockford Memorial Hospital. She has also made presentations on Violence in Adolescents, Community Violence, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Ms. Cupuro has made Trauma Case Study presentations to the paramedics at many area Fire Departments, e.g. Addison, Lisle, and Villa Park. She has also published in the Journal of Trauma and Critical Care. She stays current in her field by attending workshops -- over 50 since 1990.
JUDGE MELANIE L. CYGANOWSKI CLASS OF 1970	JAMES R. SLOWIAK, M.F.A. CLASS OF 1973
Honorable Melanie L. Cyganowski is a federal judge appointed under Article I of the Constitution. She earned her bachelor's degree with honors in Anthropology from Grinnell College in Iowa. She did graduate studies in urban development at Cornell University and then earned her doctorate of law, manga cum laude, from State University of New York at Buffalo where she was Senior Editor of the Law Review. Cyganowski began her career as a Program Planning Coordinator for Buffalo's Department of Community Development and Human Resources of Buffalo from 1974-1978. She coordinated East Buffalo's comprehensive development plan, i.e. its designation as the first nationally recognized Small Business Administration loan program are; its implementation of $1 million EDA commercial beautification program, etc. While completing her law degree, she directed a CETA Title I program and was a law clerk from 1981-1982. She then became a Litigation Associate with Sullivan & Cromwell in New York City for seven years. Prior to being named a federal judge, she was Senior Attorney, Litigation, for Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy, also in New York City. Since 1993, she has served as the United States Bankruptcy Judge, Eastern District of New York. She is Admitted to Practice: Courts of the State of New York; Supreme Court of the United States, etc.	James R. Slowiak earned his B.A. in Anthropology, French, and Dramatic Arts, magna cum laude, followed by his Master's of Fine Arts in Directing from the University of California-Irvine in 1985. He is Associate Professor of Theater Arts at the University of Akron and also the Co-Artistic Director of the New World Performance Laboratory which he founded in 1982. In 1994 Slowiak was presented with a Kennedy Center/ American College Theater Festival Meritorious Achievement Award. In the early '90's Slowiak was guest artist at the Cleveland Public Theater which resulted in his becoming Resident Director of that Theater. Concurrently he became an assistant professor of Theater arts at the University of Akron. For four years he conducted a morning actor training session called Body Lab which was rigorous work for young actors. That core group became Mr. Slowiak's New World Performance Lab which is associated both with the university and the Cleveland Public Theater, which allows student actors to have professional acting experience. Mr. Slowiak teaches a variety of Theater classes, has directed plays in Europe and South America, has given professional presentations at universities and theaters in locations around the world, and has directed a cadre of challenging plays from Shakespeare to Peer Gynt, The Misanthrope, and Man and Superman.

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1997 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Richard Martinez, M.D.  1982   family practice medicine		Jim Johnson  1962  broadcasting
	Thomas J. Kapusta  1972  architecture		Diane Webber Eden  1964  business and computer sales

1996 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Eric Wasowicz 1975 business and computer science		Richard G. Mork 1953 business management
	Lori Drummer Truitt 1981 biology and engineering		Dr. William A. Bookless 1970 physics and scientific research

1995 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Aguinaldo Valdez 1977 corporate and international law		Janet Kamien 1966 museum administration
	Mary Anne Barcellona Navratil 1974 music and drama		Robert Perry 1962 sociology and education

1994 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Rear Admiral James C. Cario 1960 military service and engineering		Mayor Reid M. Paxson 1964 local government
	Linda Lemieux Wiatr 1974 literature		Dr. John D. Markese 1963 business and finance

1993 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Judge Clifford L. Meacham 1963 Law		Douglas W. Eden, M.S. 1963 Government Service
	Robert B. Leeper 1965 Business and Entrepreneurism		Kathrine Edwards Callahan, M.S. 1970 Government Service

1992 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Brenda Czajka Barnes, M.B.A. 1971 Corprate Management		Richard Zielinski, M.S. 1965 Television Production and Education
	August F. Battaglia, AIA 1970 Architecture		Donald Jerina Ph.D. 1958 Biomedical Research

1991 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Dr. John Bingham 1966 Music		Carol Ditchkus 1966 Business and Marketing
	Dr. Karen Marie 1976 Medicine		Ned Colletti 1972 Professional Sports Administration
	Paul Froelich  1963  Community Service		Jeff Hernandez  1962  Business Administration

1990 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Captin Richard Lavergne 1977 Military Services and Engineering		Tim Setnicka 1964 National Park Service
	Joan Vercillo Nelson 1978 Air Traffic Control		Richard Agness 1963 College Coaching and Administration
	Louis Rende  1947  Television Production		Mary Kozy  1967  Social Work

1989 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	Marian Leonard Tompson 1947 Public service		Diane Doll 1970 Computer Programming and Music
	Donald Hester, Ph.D. 1960 Career Diplomacy		Michael Shanahan 1970 NFL Coaching
	Bruce Pugesek  1969  Research Biology		Tom Lynch  1968  Watercoloring
	Frank Fultz, Ph.D.  1969  Health Education and Professional Coaching

1988 Inductees

	NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:		NAME CLASS OF FIELD(S) OF ACHIEVEMENT:
	James Bradof, M.D. 1966 Oncology		Beverly Kedzierski, Ph.D. 1971 Computer Science
	Mary Ann Ruzecki 1951 Meteorology and Computer Science		Harold Kelley 1954 Business Managrment
	Diane Ryndak, Ph.D.  1970  Special Education		Donald Stephens  1952  Business and Politics
	John Nester  1964  Art Education

 

Janine Asmus
Alumni Wall of Fame Planner
3400 N. Rose Street
Franklin Park, Illinois 60131

OR

Call (847) 451-3658

If you cannot attend the ceremony or reception, you are invited to send letters of congratulations to the inductees. Your letters will certainly add to the honor for them. Including some anecdotes about them from high school could add to the fun.