alumni events & news 19 FROM HIS POEM: The hero wakes in twilight, past crushing, clashing rocks. In his begging bowl is insight, carried home to feed the flocks. I know many others were deeply touched by Mr. Haugh. As Ben Davis, class of ‘97, recalls: “There was a specific incident I’d had with a student early in my career, and I was extremely frustrated. He told me that he had learned the hard way that to be inflexible with students who make some effort, regardless of the outcome, is valuing my work over their lives. It was a lesson in empathy and not judging people.” Michael came to my first play on opening night and even donated to its crowdfunding. Afterwards he wrote to me, saying how proud he was of me. Then he said: “When all the self-actualizing is complete, when all the accolades have been gathered and all the work of your hands is set aside… only the love and the communion will have mattered.” Many of Michael’s teachings were about transcending the limitations of the ego. He lost one of his sons a few years back. I reached out to him, and this is what he wrote back: “I am still learning from life. The events we can do nothing with and nothing about are the ones meant to do something with us.” Every morning, Michael would rise before dawn, sit outside, empty his thoughts, and gaze into the still-dark sky. As the years passed, I came to understand what a profound practice that was. To be in stillness before the vastness of God. He was preparing himself, I think, for the journey beyond the limitations of self. Just as he prepared me and so many others. Mr. Haugh’s story is a testament to the power of Aquinas educators who see potential before students see it in themselves—and who continue to offer guidance, encouragement, and friendship long after the final bell rings. For Nina and so many others, Michael Haugh was more than a teacher. He was a “bulwark, a stalwart,” and a reminder that the Aquinas connection is not confined to four years. It is a lifelong bond. Nina and members of the Class of ’96 at their 25th Reunion (2021) Mr. Haugh teaching with Nina at the black board (1993-1994 Arete) Stay Connected with AQ One of the greatest strengths of the Aquinas community is that once you’re a Li’l Irish, you’re always part of the AQ family. Whether you graduated ve years ago or fty years ago, we want to keep you connected to the people, traditions, and experiences that make Aquinas so special. Please take a moment to update your contact information. Keeping your mailing address, email address, and phone number current ensures you receive The Landmark, AQ Evermore, invitations to class reunions and alumni events, as well as receive news about the students, faculty, and programs that continue to make Aquinas thrive. If you know of classmates who have moved, changed their contact information, or simply lost touch over the years, please encourage them to update their information as well. Every updated record strengthens our alumni network and helps ensure more members of the Aquinas family remain part of the conversations, celebrations, and traditions that bring us together. Simply scan the QR code or visit AquinasInstitute.com to update your information. Thank you for helping us keep the Aquinas family connected for generations to come.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTcyNDA=