WINTER 2026 A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS & FRIENDS In This Issue . . . HIDDEN STORIES OF AQ THE GHOSTS AT AQ PAGE 7 ATHLETICS IN ACTION PASSING THE GLOVES PAGE 14 FOCUS ON FAITH THE STORIES WITHIN THE CIRCLE PAGE 32
Aquinas Landmarkis published by the O ce of Advancement for distribution to Aquinas Alumni, Parents & Friends. Sta David Eustis PRESIDENT Ted Mancini ’88, P’26 PRINCIPAL Joseph B. Knapp EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT Colleen Brett DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Meredith Kallfelz DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT Anita Nagel P’00 & ‘00 ENROLLMENT COORDINATOR Lisa Clicquennoi ’84, P’13 DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR Kelly Conlan P’21 & ’26 AQUINAS FUND & EVENTS MANAGER Jay Polston ’90 ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, MAJOR GIFTS & PLANNED GIVING Janine Wagner ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT & ADVANCEMENT OFFICE MANAGER Photos by: Colleen Brett, Mike Martinez, Kathryn Carangelo P’25 & ’27, Al Mosher P’10 & ’12, Scott Hinds P’28, Various Faculty/Staff, Alumni, & Friends The Aquinas Institute of Rochester In the Basilian Tradition In Partnership with Nazareth Elementary School and the Sisters of Saint Joseph MISSION STATEMENT The Aquinas Institute of Rochester is a Catholic, private, college preparatory, co-educational school educating in the tradition of the Basilian Fathers. Our mission is to teach all students goodness, discipline, and knowledge, supported through gospel values, within a comprehensive curricular and co-curricular program that will prepare them to be responsible and caring citizens. CONTENTS ON THE COVER A moment captured during a staged GDK Circle inside the Martin J. Calihan ’45 Chapel, shining a light on the hidden stories within our school. WINTER 2026 A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS & FRIENDS In This Issue . . . HIDDEN STORIES OF AQ THE GHOSTS AT AQ PAGE 7 ATHLETICS IN ACTION PASSING THE GLOVES PAGE 14 FOCUS ON FAITH THE STORIES WITHIN THE CIRCLE PAGE 32 WELCOME 3 President’s Letter 3 From the Editor HIDDEN STORIES OF AQ 4 Did You Know? 6 The Apartment and the Dungeon 7 The Ghosts at AQ THE ARTS COME ALIVE 8 More Than Play 9 AQ Presents Little Women 10 Students Behind the Lens 11 Stories We Share Through Music & Movement ATHLETICS IN ACTION 12 Believe in a Good Thing 13 National Signing Day 2025 14 Passing the Gloves 16 Section V Champions SCHOOL NEWS 18 AQ Summer Camps 18 Best Private School 2025 Winner 19 First Semester Highlights 20 Girls Flag Football Comes to AQ 21 The Latulipe Upward Bound Scholarship 22 What Happens When Phones Disappear FACULTY SPOTLIGHTS 23 Always Feels Like Home ALUMNI EVENTS & NEWS 24 Homecoming Weekend: Where Friends and Stories Meet 25 Founders’ Golf Tournament 2025 26 From Alum to Mentor, AQ to the OR 27 A Gift That Lasts 28 Global Connections: Where Are They Now? 30 Alumni Notes 31 Li’l Irish FOCUS ON FAITH 32 The Stories Within the Circle 34 GIFTS IN MEMORY & IN HONOR OF 36 DONOR IMPACT REPORT 46 IN REMEMBRANCE THANK YOU 47 Get Ready for Shamrock Week 2026 47 2025-2026 Board Members (Trustees & Foundation)
Dear Aquinas Alumni and Friends, It is with great pride and gratitude that I write to you as we share this latest edition of our Landmark magazine. Each issue offers an opportunity not only to reflect on recent achievements, but also to celebrate the enduring community that defines our institution—a community made strong by you, our alumni, for over 123 years. Over the past months, our school has continued to advance its mission in meaningful ways. Our students are learning, leading, and serving with energy and purpose. Our faculty and staff remain deeply committed to excellence, innovation, and mentorship. And across campus, we see daily reminders that the values instilled here extend far beyond the classroom. None of this progress happens in isolation. It is built on the foundation you helped create—as students, graduates, mentors, volunteers, advocates, and supporters. Your continued engagement and belief in our mission make a tangible difference, opening doors of opportunity for today’s students and strengthening the school for generations to come. As you read through this issue, I hope you will take pride in the stories shared and the accomplishments highlighted. They reflect not only where we are today, but where we are going together. We remain focused on preparing students for lives of purpose and impact, while honoring the traditions that make our school unique. Thank you for staying connected, for supporting our work, and for carrying the spirit of this institution into the world. We are proud to call you alumni, and we look forward to all that lies ahead. Aquinas Evermore, D E , President It was a beautiful late August day when our faculty and staff gathered for our annual retreat in the St. John Fisher University Hermance Family Chapel of St. Basil the Great. We meet just before the school year begins to reconnect, share summer stories, and set new goals for cultivating a strong, faith-filled community— fostering student engagement, integrating our values, and continuing to teach Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge. Our Director of Mission & Ministry, Mrs. Jodi Schott P’29 & ’32, guided a thoughtful discussion on education as a vocation. I quickly realized that for many, working at Aquinas is more than a job—it’s a calling. Stories surfaced of alumni returning to teach, even those who had never planned on a career in education. Principal, Ted Mancini ’88, P’26, shared that while he was pursuing his theater dreams, Fr. Dennis Noelke, CSB, invited him to teach at Aquinas. What he expected to be a one- or two-year role as Director of Theatre grew into a decades-long journey at Aquinas, one that continues today in his role as principal, fueled by his deep love for the school and its mission. Other teachers echoed similar sentiments: there is an unmistakable AQ difference that sets our school apart. As I sat in the chapel, reflecting on what makes Aquinas so beautifully unique, I listened as faculty and staff shared their own unique stories of the school. Stories I had never heard before, yet spoke volumes. In that moment, I realized just how many stories make Aquinas truly special, many of which go unnoticed. I wondered how many in our community have yet to hear them. And, how many more stories remain to be discovered. With that said, this issue of the Landmark shines a spotlight on just some of e Hidden Stories of AQ. Past and present, big and small, student-centered and community-centered, heartfelt or simple—stories that may have gotten lost in the years between them or stories shared quietly with just a few. Each one offers a glimpse, a spark, a reminder that Aquinas is full of people making a difference, often in ways the world doesn’t always see. I hope you enjoy discovering them as much as I have. C B , Director of Communications Welcome 3 PRESIDENT’S LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
4 AQUINAS LANDMARK | WINTER 2026 At Aquinas, stories of dedication, creativity, and heart are happening everywhere, sometimes in plain sight, and sometimes quietly behind the scenes. From past traditions to present-day triumphs, these hidden stories often go unnoticed amid the hustle and bustle of daily school life. What you’ll find here is just a glimpse—a collection of moments, achievements, and acts of spirit that remind us why Aquinas is more than a school: it’s a community, a family, and a place where every story matters. DID YOU KNOW? hidden stories of aq Briar Hinds ’28 consoles another player from the opposing team (Kate Pinto of Pittsford Sutherland) while her teammates celebrate winning the Girls Soccer Section V Class A Championship. Brendan McDaniels P’23 & ‘25, Academic Intervention Services Coordinator, is also an ESPN+ announcer for various sports including, college volleyball and basketball, the Rochester Knighthawks, and the Buffalo Bills. Mathematics Teacher George Flevares is a radio host for Rochester Free Radio and is an ESPN+ play by play announcer for St. Bonaventure University Rugby. Ted Lauzon ’94 and Chuck Porcari ’80 met for the first time recently at the Washington, D.C. alumni event. They discovered they not only grew up on the same street in Rochester, but in the very same house just years apart. Talk about a small world! No matter where life takes you, you’re bound to find a fellow Aquinas connection along the way. It’s the worst kept secret at the school: Aquinas has a swimming pool. And that swimming pool was never used. Built in 1925 beneath the cafeteria, the 40x60-foot pool was fully constructed with lockers, showers, and a filter room. Plans to fill it were scrapped after a local tragedy the summer before the school opened, when a young girl drowned in a nearby pool. Today, the pool remains a hidden relic: its outline can still be seen under the floor in the corridor near the Reading Room, along with exposed plumbing and red brick ledges— quiet reminders of Aquinas’ “lost” pool. is summary is courtesy of Bob Gibbons ’65. Harold Clark, Class of 1917—back when Aquinas was known as Cathedral High—was the school’s first alumnus to play in the NFL. Clark played 25 games from 1920, the NFL’s inaugural year, through 1925 as an End for the Rochester Jeffersons. Although Cathedral High did not have a football team, Clark excelled on the basketball court, earning unanimous selection to the All-Interscholastic Team. He also proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WWI.
5 AQUINAS LANDMARK | SUMMER 2020 What’s News 5 William “Bill” McGrath ’65, our current bus driver, grew up in Hilton and used to hitchhike to get to Aquinas every day—making the fact that he didn’t have a bus back then all the more ironic! Aquinas parent Scott Hinds P’28, co-founder of Flower City Entertainment & Multimedia, went above and beyond this year. He volunteered his time outside of his regular work hours to photograph our Girls Varsity Soccer Team, Varsity Football Team, and several other AQ sports teams, while generously allowing AQ to use and share his photos with our community. Scott is just one example of the many parents who generously share their time and talents to support our school and students. Thank you, Scott—and thank you to all the parents who continually go above and beyond. If we could list every one of you, this page would be overflowing. Todd Clicquennoi ’86 and Larry Young have spent decades revitalizing homes, buildings, and neighborhoods across Rochester, with Todd’s son Zachary ’13 joining the team in 2017. Their most notable project, the High Falls Neighborhood, transformed abandoned city properties into vibrant spaces housing offices, high-end condos, and creative businesses. Their work has also created homes and workspaces for many members of the Aquinas community, including faculty, staff, and alumni. For more information, visit www.metrofalls.com. Two sixth graders, Palar Banks ’32 and Robert DeLorme III ‘32, were honored with the Rochester Police Department’s Do The Right Thing Award for their leadership, kindness, and courage while attending their previous elementary schools. Palar helped protect a classmate expressing self-harm, while Robert comforted a struggling peer and involved the proper adults—using the strength he gained from the loss of his twin sister, Giselle. #AQPROUD This past October, parent Leslie Allen shared a heartwarming story about her son Carson ’27 and a group of about 17 students who stopped at Olympia Restaurant after taking the PSATs. While unwinding from test-taking over lunch, an older gentleman seated nearby asked where they went to school. When they told him Aquinas, he explained that he had once dreamed of attending AQ himself, but his family couldn’t afford it at the time—reminding us how grateful we are to offer financial aid to deserving families today. After the meal, the students went to pay their bill, only to learn that the gentleman had quietly covered the cost for all of them, tip included. His kindness made a lasting impression on these students and showed that generosity is still very much alive—and often appears when we least expect it. Kudos as well to our students, whose positive presence clearly made an impact. Thanks to the generosity and dedication of our AQ community, our Varsity Ice Hockey team now has a newly dedicated locker room space at Lakeshore Ice Arena & Sports Center. Hockey Head Coach Chuck Dossier (father of Chuck ’26, and son of Michael ’69) shared that this project was made possible largely through the leadership and vision of rink owners Jeff Nuccitelli ’90 and David Nuccitelli ’99, who helped bring the idea to life. Additional financial support from parents and donors — led by Richard Gray, father of Reagan Gray ’26, and Steve Smola, father of Zach Smola ’26 — helped ensure that the dream became a reality. Team Captain Caleb Wood ’26 shared how grateful the players are for the space, noting that it has strengthened the bond among teammates and created “their place” to carry forward the proud tradition of AQ hockey. Caleb spoke to the importance of pride, leadership, and passing along respect for the program to the younger players coming up behind them. The new locker room includes individual player areas, laundry facilities, showers, and dedicated spaces for coaches and video review, providing a true home base for AQ Hockey for years to come.
hidden stories of aq 6 The first mention of the apartment was in a 1925 article in the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. “Above the Aquinas cafeteria,” the reporter noted, “is a caretaker’s living quarters—kitchen, living room, two bedrooms, and a bath, as well as a veranda.” Today, that small apartment is used for storage. “You can find the grades of students, school records, handwritten examinations, and attendance reports— from about the 1930s, up to the present day,” Vicky Lopuchowycz ‘98, Aquinas Registrar, tells me. “We keep the doors locked and very few of us have keys.” She and I are standing there surrounded by boxes–in rooms where the paint is peeling and the rooms are largely gutted. Vicky remembers when, in 1996, she and other members of the stage crew carried the old stove down the stairs to use as a prop in “The Boys Next Door,” an Aquinas play directed by Ted Mancini ‘88, P’26, who led the theatre department before he became principal. When Larry Ansini ‘70, was in college, Aquinas hired him to clean and paint the place. Now, as a member of security at the school, he provides additional details. He’s opened a door in the fieldhouse that was once on the exterior of the building; it’s one entrance up to the apartment. Larry talks of those who lived there through the years. In 1946, Harry Wright, the young football coach Aquinas hired, moved into the apartment with his family while looking for a place to live in Rochester. And Larry remembers, “Willy Hill, a cook for the school and for the Basilians when they lived at 402 Augustine Street, lived here and so did C. Moody Johnson, an assistant football coach.” David Martin, school band director in the 1980s, was its last occupant. There are two stairways to the apartment; the other is off the first-floor corridor near the Women’s Locker Room; it’s so unsafe it’s seldom used. But once it led directly to the Aquinas Boiler Room. “The school’s night watchman lived in the apartment,” Larry says, “so he could take that stairway to tend to the boiler without having to go outside the building.” Larry opens another door just outside the Aquinas library; we go down into the Aquinas basement which stretches only under the northern half of the school. Under the rest, there’s dirt—and tunnels, some hand dug. Larry calls the basement ‘the dungeon;’ it now includes the Boy’s locker room, showers, coaches’ offices, a maintenance shop, other small rooms, a corridor, and— in the largest area—the boiler room with two large gas-fired boilers and pipes running everywhere. “In the beginning,” Larry says, “the boilers burned coal—and trash from the building— to heat the school.” He takes me down a narrow underground passageway. “For several years,” he says, “this was a ‘Civil Defense Corridor.’ There were olive green drums with Geiger counters, blankets, and boxes of crackers lined up along the walls. In the late 1960s, the government came and took it all away.” Now athletic uniforms hang here. We end up in a small room where buckets of paint are stored. He points to a large hole in the ceiling. “That’s a chute,” he says, “with openings on every floor. They used to dump school trash—paper mostly—down the chute. It was collected here in a cart and wheeled to the boilers to be burned.” They don’t do that anymore. Parts of this dungeon hold a special memory for Larry. In 1967, when he was an Aquinas sophomore, the Buffalo Bills played the Boston Patriots at Aquinas Memorial Stadium. “ e Bills were using our locker room, down here in the dungeon,” he remembers, “and I had the assignment to make sure they had everything they needed. When quarterback Jack Kemp got off the bus, he said, ‘I hear you have a beautiful chapel in this building.’ I took him to it—and waited while he prayed for about fifteen minutes.” Although Kemp threw for a 32-yard touchdown, the Patriots won 13-10 on a field goal. As we come back up to the first floor of Aquinas, Larry puts away his keys. We’ve gone from the highest hidden place in Aquinas—the apartment—to its lowest, the dungeon. “When you come back,” he suggests, “I could tell you some ghost stories.” at could be interesting... The Apartment & the Dungeon Aquinas has a number of hidden places: in back of walls, beneath floors, behind locked doors. Today, we’ll explore two—the apartment and the dungeon. Pipes lead everywhere in the building from the gas boilers in the dungeon. One of two doors to the Aquinas apartment, with the doorbell still in place. One of two stairways into the Aquinas apartment. e Aquinas apartment is now used to store school records going back to the 1930s. Athletic uniforms now hang in this underground corridor where civil defense materials were once stored. e Boiler Room is in the basement behind a locked door on the rst oor of the school. By Bob Gibbons ’65 AQUINAS LANDMARK | WINTER 2026
7 I’m part of the security force and as I walk the halls every night on my security check, it’s not unusual to see lights icker, locked doors open and close and bang, and hear strange sounds coming from the rooms. And I can never nd the source. One Sunday night in 2010, while the auditorium was being renovated, when I came around to check, I heard noises coming from inside. All the doors were secured, but when I unlocked one and went into the dark auditorium, I could hear somebody playing on the pipes. I checked carefully—and the noise went on—but nobody was there. On a Saturday night in the 80s, John Flynn, a Sergeant with the Rochester Police Department, was helping us with security. On that night, he called to tell me that when he entered the locked building, he was greeted by a friendly German shepherd who then disappeared. When John checked the auditorium, all the doors were locked, but there was light coming from the stage. John unlocked a door— and up on the stage, there was the German Shepherd. How did the dog get there—through the locked doors? When John asked, I had no explanation. Back in 2013, after an Aquinas play concluded, my security partner, Roger Sadler went to secure the rst- oor doors of the auditorium where he encountered Jen, who was the stage manager. I heard her voice with Roger’s in the transmission. I was standing in the Art Center entrance—a long way from Roger—when suddenly, the South corner exit door of the auditorium popped open—and Jen came walking out of the Ladies Room. How could she be in two distant places at once? And why did I then hear unexplained pops and ashes coming from the chorus room near me? I documented those experiences to le. And nally, although this is an Aquinas legend, I’ve had a personal experience that gives credibility to it. Before I worked here, Nazareth Academy girls acted in Aquinas plays and before one performance, one of the student actresses was killed in an auto accident. Although the school elected not to tell the other actors about the accident, many of them said they saw her sitting in the auditorium that night watching the play from one of the front row seats. For a time after that night, that seat was always left empty for her to sit in during performances. One night, many years later, I was walking down the hall when an auditorium door popped open; all the doors had been locked. When I went into the dark auditorium, there was a single light shining stage right to the seat very close to the one once reserved for the actress who was killed in the accident long ago. It wasn’t a footlight, spotlight, or any other physical light. It had no source—and no explanation. The rst couple of times I encountered an unexplained situation like that, it freaked me out, but now I just realize nobody physically is there. Nobody is going to hurt me. So, the only question is: do I believe there are ghosts at Aquinas? Based on what I’ve experienced, yeah, I do. I’ve been associated with Aquinas for about 60 years, and I believe ghosts haunt the school at night. The Ghosts at AQ By Larry Ansini ’70, as told to Bob Gibbons ’65
the arts come alive 8 AQUINAS LANDMARK | WINTER 2026 Looking back, how did your time in the AQ Arts shape your confidence, creativity, or sense of self? “I honestly didn’t really know where I t in at AQ when I rst got there. I didn’t come from a Catholic school background, so I didn’t know many people when I arrived. But from the second I hit the stage in any sense—whether improv, dance, or chorus—I felt myself come alive. It made everything else so much less intimidating. Performance unlocked something in me.” That rst feeling—of comfort, con dence, and connection—became a turning point. The stage o ered Malcolm something many students quietly search for: a place where he felt fully himself. Was there a specific moment, performance, or mentor at AQ that helped you realize the arts could play a meaningful role in your life? “There wasn’t just one mentor at AQ. Freshman year, Mr. Richard Durham asked me to join the very rst improv comedy troupe. It opened my eyes to all that could be done with comedy— crafting stories in real time, creating worlds that had never been explored and never would be again. From there, the oodgates opened. Mr. Je Wilson encouraged me to join chorus and nd my voice. Ms. Donna Damelio Brett taught me how to tell stories through movement and dance. And Mrs. Mary Krickmire tied it all together with acting and theatre. I would do anything for them—they helped me unlock my true potential.” Together, these mentors created something larger than any one performance: an environment where creativity was encouraged, risk was welcomed, and potential was recognized before students even saw it themselves. How do you see the skills you gained through the arts reflected in your work today? “Oh man—all the time. Lately, I’ve been trying to give back and pass on some of the skills I learned from my mentors at AQ.” Malcolm now volunteers with Young Storytellers in Los Angeles, where writers and actors visit local elementary schools to teach students how to tell stories through screenwriting. The program culminates in live performances of the students’ work by professional actors and comedians. “For the last ve years, I’ve also been professionally running games of Dungeons & Dragons. Last year, I started working with a company that runs camps, after-school programs, and private events—helping kids and adults learn collaborative storytelling through fantasy. Helping people nd that love of storytelling so early truly felt like a full-circle moment for me. I want to pay it forward the way my Aquinas mentors did.” What might surprise people about how the AQ Arts prepared you for a career in stand-up, writing, and performance? “Improv comedy is the most valuable tool in my life! It’s gotten me further than anything else. I apply it everywhere. It’s helped me on some of the biggest, toughest stages in standup. It’s helped my writing process. I’ve even used it in job interviews. More than anything, it taught me to swing for the fences as much as possible—and it all started after school at Aquinas.” If you could say one thing to current AQ students involved in the arts, what would you want them to know? “There is no true timeline for the arts. Success is not linear. I’ve been working in performance since high school. It was ve years into comedy before I started touring. I didn’t get an agent for writing until after 30. But it never felt like it took a long time, because I loved what I was doing every step of the way—even when it was hard. As cliché as it sounds, as long as you feel excited about what you’re creating, the time just ies by.” Malcolm’s journey is a reminder that the arts are not con ned to a stage, a script, or a single performance. They quietly shape con dence, nurture creativity, and give students tools that surface years later—in careers, in service, and in how they show up in the world. Not every Aquinas story is visible right away. Some continue to unfold long after graduation. Thank you, Malcolm, for sharing your story. More Than Play Some of the most powerful AQ stories don’t end at graduation—they quietly continue, unfolding years later. For Malcolm Whitfield ’11, the lessons learned through AQ Theatre, Dance, and Chorus didn’t simply shape his high school experience; they became the foundation for how he finds his voice, tells stories, and gives back today. What began as an uncertain search for belonging became a lifelong relationship with the arts—one that still echoes far beyond the stage. What may look like play from the outside—improv games, rehearsal, laughter, creative risk—was in fact preparation for real-world confidence and adaptability.
9 This fall, the AQ Theatre Program brought Louisa May Alcott’s timeless classic Little Women to the stage, following the journey of four sisters navigating girlhood, family, and growing up during the Civil War. The talented cast and dedicated crew worked tirelessly under the guidance of Director Emma Mousaw, who directed her very first school play with this production. Below, Emma shares her personal reflection on why this story—and this cast—have made such a meaningful impact. AQ PRESENTS Li le Women DIRECTOR’S NOTE: I am o en asked: Why did you get into theatre? Why Aquinas? Why Little Women? Not to sound too cliché, but the answer to all three is: love. I have loved theatre since high school, o en staying up late into the night, meticulously working on wood grain texturing or repainting lettering on set pieces or props that wouldn’t make or break the show. It didn’t matter to me because I loved it: the stories, the people, the community. As for Aquinas, I’ve grown to adore my work, my students, and my colleagues, but moreover, Aquinas is a family that loves and cherishes its members. And that’s the same reason I love Little Women. Little Women, for those who are not familiar with the story, follows the journey of four sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they navigate a life of genteel poverty, romantic notions, girlhood, and growing up during the Civil War. Louisa May Alcott wrote this book to be loosely based on the lives of her and her family, and I o en wonder if she knew how big this story would become. How mundane it must have felt, writing her life down on paper, and yet hers is now a classic tale that is continually adapted for stage or lm. So why do we love this story so much? ere are no good guys and bad guys, no smoke, no glitter, no glorious and exciting battles keeping the audience at the edge of their seats. I spent my whole summer searching for the answers to this question as I read the novel. I didn’t nd them until I was nally in rehearsal with this amazing cast. We love this story precisely because it’s not some crazy, thrilling, fantastical fairytale with a million bells and whistles to grab your attention. ese characters aren’t perfect. ey make mistakes, they try new things, they meet new people, they argue excessively, they celebrate each other, and, oh, do they have ever-so-many messy feelings. We love the story and these characters because we see so much of ourselves in them. We can relate to the joy and pain they feel and their experience of growing up. is production has been a long labor of love from so many people, to whom I wish I could give more thanks than just a few lines on one page. First, to my colleagues, Andy Pratt, Brian White, Lorin Easton, Michelle Daniels P’29, and Kiana Cotton, who not only provided support and advice but assisted me in auditions, rehearsals, prop creation, and raising AQ theatre to a new level. To Kayleigh White for seeing all my visions, making them a reality, and dressing all our children while making one of her own (Congrats BTW!). To Aquinas’ very own Ted Mancini ’88, P’26 for showing me this adaptation, being a huge theatre nerd, and to him and Kristie Schillaci for seeing the potential in me. To the people who made me the thespian I am today, most notably Chris VerSchneider, Krystal Kennel, Steve Mazzoccone, and Dr. Whitney Emerson. And last, but certainly not least, to Megan and Mark Knisely P’30 and Kayden McLeod, without whom I would have crashed and burned long ago. ank you for keeping me sane, dealing with my ridiculous dreams, and of course, all the work and dedication you poured into this show and this theatre program. It wouldn’t be the same without you. Emma Mousaw Little Women Director Aquinas Technical Director FROM THE CAST: “Playing Meg March in Little Women was an honor. This show has really brought me closer to my classmates and I have made some lifelong friends that I definitely consider to be my sisters.” – Riley Miner ’26 (Meg March) “Playing Jo March was so meaningful to me because the story is so iconic and captures the essence of girlhood. It really brought me closer to my onstage sisters.” – Paisley Boulis ’27 (Jo March) “Although playing Beth in Little Women was challenging due to the amount of memorization, I truly loved the role and had a wonderful time portraying her. Being in a play for the first time was so much fun, and I really enjoyed spending time with and getting to know the cast and crew.” – Abby Christopher ’26 (Beth March) “Portraying Amy March was especially meaningful because I finally had the chance to perform on the AQ stage alongside my big sister — and my older brother, who ran the lights! Working closely with the four sisters during rehearsals helped us form such a strong connection.” – Tessa Boulis ’32 (Amy March)
the arts come alive 10 AQUINAS LANDMARK | WINTER 2026 There’s a new way our students are capturing the spirit of Aquinas—through the lens of a camera. The Aquinas Student Media (ASM) initiative was established through a collaborative effort between Mr. Collin Wright, Assistant Athletic Director, Mrs. Lorin Easton, Fine Arts Department Chair, and Ms. Colleen Brett, Director of Communications, to give students hands-on experience in photography and media while documenting the moments that define the AQ experience. ASM members are students in photography classes who want to put their skills to the test in real-world settings. Following ASM guidelines, students have photographed athletic competitions, performances, and other school events, skillfully capturing the energy and action that make everyday life at AQ unique. Their images—featured on the Aquinas website gallery and social media—offer a genuine, student-centered perspective that brings stories to life. This initiative not only enhances school spirit but also provides students with meaningful opportunities to grow as visual storytellers. For many, it serves as a bridge between classroom learning and real-world application—helping them build portfolios, confidence, and professional skills that will last long after graduation. “It’s exciting to see students like Talia Norton ’26 step into this role and showcase their talent,” said Easton. “They’re not just taking pictures—they’re capturing the pride, emotion, and tradition that make Aquinas special.” Aquinas Student Media is a testament to the creativity and collaboration that thrive on campus, showing that some of the most powerful stories come from a student’s perspective. Q&A with Talia Norton ’26 Q: What do you enjoy most about photography, and what first drew you to it? A: I enjoy freezing a moment in a single image with all its emotion. I like trying to get the right angles and capturing the best shot possible. I also love how appreciative people are when you take pictures for them; I like being helpful! What first drew me to photography was seeing people take photos at my games, which sparked my interest in taking the Digital Photography course here at AQ. This course has only grown my love for photography even more! Q: How has photographing games and events helped you grow— as a student, an artist, or even as a member of the AQ community? A: This has definitely grown my already abundant AQ pride. From being on the sidelines and witnessing the long-standing traditions of AQ sports firsthand, my love for the school has deepened even more. As an artist, I would like to think my pictures have improved significantly from the first game I shot to the most recent. This includes editing, angles, and knowing where and when to take a specific shot. In other words, practice helps make perfect! Q: Is there a particular photo or moment you’ve captured that stands out to you as especially meaningful? A: Many photos I’ve taken at sporting events have stuck with me. One shot shows a player upset and kneeling on the sideline, with his coach leaning over and comforting him. I love the emotion and authenticity of this shot and think about it regularly. That’s why I love photography—it allows me to capture moments of high emotion or something that conveys a larger message. Another moment I captured was a player celebrating a touchdown. You can see the excitement and thrill in his facial expression and demeanor, as he celebrates with his teammates. Moments like these, full of emotion and authenticity, are exactly why I enjoy photographing AQ events so much! ALL ASM PHOTO ALBUMS CAN BE FOUND BY VISITING OUR WEBSITE GALLERY OR BY SCANNING THE QR CODE. Students Behind the Lens
11 December brought our community together to celebrate the talents and dedication of our student musicians, singers, and dancers during the Winter Band, Chorus, and Dance Concerts. Each performance showcased months of hard work, creativity, and collaboration—bringing the spirit, and stories, of the season to life through the arts. Under the direction of Mr. Brian White, Director of Bands, our Middle School and High School Band students took the stage with con dence and enthusiasm, demonstrating musical growth and a shared love for performance. Our Winter Chorus Concert, led by Mr. Andy Pratt, Vocal & Theatre Director, featured choir students in grades 7–12 presenting an evening of festive music that captured both the joy and re ection of the holiday season. The Winter Dance Concert, directed by Dance Instructors Ms. Kristie Schillaci and Ms. Kiana Cotton, featured ve dynamic pieces highlighting artistry, expression, and movement, paired with music that embraced the magic of the season—including a spirited performance set to Justin Bieber’s Drummer Boy. These performances were made possible through the support of Ms. Emma Mousaw, Tech Director; Mrs. Lorin Easton, Chair of the Fine Arts Department; Al Mosher P’10 & ’12, photographer; and the dedicated Aquinas Administration and Maintenance sta . We are grateful to everyone who joined us in support of our arts programs. The performing arts play a vital role in education—fostering creativity, con dence, discipline, and self-expression—and at AQ, they are not an “extra,” but a space where students discover their voices and bring their stories to life. Stories We Share Through Music & Movement
12 AQUINAS LANDMARK | WINTER 2026 Believe in a Good Thing HONORING COACH JOSH GLEASON ’94, P’25 & ’26 After 13 remarkable years guiding the Aquinas Boys Varsity Soccer team, Coach Josh Gleason ’94, P’25 & ’26 is stepping away from the sidelines. For Gleason, a former alum, parent, and longtime member of the Aquinas community, coaching has been much more than wins and losses—it has been a calling, a way to shape young men, build character, and carry forward the AQ tradition. “What started as a passion for coaching sports quickly became something much bigger,” Gleason reflects. “From the first whistle of preseason to the final moments under the lights, every season brought its own challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable memories.” In 2023, Gleason guided the team to their first New York State Class A Soccer Championship since 2006 and was named Class A Coach of the Year—a milestone moment for the program. But in classic Coach Gleason fashion, he’s the first to shift the spotlight, acknowledging those who have supported him along the way. “I want to thank our Athletic Director, Anthony Bianchi ’81, for always being in my corner,” Gleason says. “If it wasn’t for Anthony’s support, this program—and many others—would not be as successful as they are today.” Gleason also expresses gratitude to President Dave Eustis for his leadership and commitment to Aquinas athletics. Gleason’s coaching journey, as he puts it, has been shaped by a network of mentors, colleagues, and supporters who guided him along the way. “Gary and Joe LaPietra were huge influences on my coaching style—always reminding me to be competitive and bring passion to every practice and game, no matter the opponent,” Gleason reflects. “Mark Hurley gave me my start and showed me how to build a brand and run a successful program. Coach Nelson Cupello’s attention to detail made all the difference—his philosophy that physical fitness breeds mental toughness has stayed with me throughout my career. Tad Valentino ’94 shared my vision and provided countless late-night insights that helped our program achieve our goals.” Gleason also acknowledges the unwavering support of his assistants. “I want to thank all my coaches and assistants over the years, but it was John Oliveri who really committed to my ‘insanity’ and provided the balance and second set of eyes necessary for our success,” he says. The dedication of parents has been equally vital. “To the many team moms and parents who spent hours helping our program function—Jodi Ogden, Jay ’96 and Kelly (Kocis) Wegman ’96, Veronica Passifiume, Ginger and Jeff Sorensen—your support, generosity, and positive influence have been invaluable. Aquinas Boys Soccer could not operate without you,” Gleason adds. He also reflects on personal challenges, including the tragic loss of his father Jim in 2025, and expresses deep gratitude to his family for their unwavering support. “Amy, LJ ’25, Colby ’26, and Sawyer, thank you for supporting me and allowing me to pursue my dream of coaching at AQ. Over the past 13 years, we’ve missed birthdays, anniversaries, and many special moments together, but your care and thoughtfulness have touched not only me, but countless players as well. I look forward to being more present and involved as a parent, cheering you, Amy, and the boys on in all that you do.” Of course, the heart of any team is the players themselves. “I want to thank all the players who bought into what we were trying to do at Aquinas,” Gleason says. “Attack what you want out of life—and do it with purpose and passion.” As he steps down, Gleason looks ahead with hope for the program’s future. “Aquinas Boys Soccer needs a new voice and new traditions,” he says. “Believe in a Good ing was the program motto, but it is also a phrase for the boys to reflect on when life throws curve balls at us, because it will. I wish nothing but good things for Aquinas.” athletics in action Coach Gleason has left a legacy far beyond the scoreboard. It is clear, that through his leadership, mentorship, and love for the game, he has shaped young men, strengthened a community, and embodied the spirit of Aquinas. Throughout his tenure, Gleason’s impact has been felt both on and off the field. • 2023 All-Greater Rochester Coach of the Year • 2023 Class A Coach of the Year • 2023 NYS Private School Coach of the Year • Coached over 10 All-State selections • Coached 5 All-Greater Rochester First Team selections • Helped place over 30 players in college soccer programs FROM PLAYERS, PAST AND PRESENT: “One of my best memories with Coach Gleason has to be after winning the Class A Soccer State Finals. Halfway through the bus ride home, we stopped at a Burger King—it was such a surreal and awesome feeling filled with excitement, contentment, and a little bit of sadness that a great chapter of my life was coming to an end. We spent the whole time talking about the final game, the season, and the past few years playing for Aquinas. I’ll always be thankful to Coach Gleason for mentoring me, and giving me some of the best memories of my high school years. Ever since the finals, whenever we’re together, we always end up reminiscing about winning states, the team, and the memories we made along the way.” – Charlie Sorensen ’24 “There were so many amazing moments having my dad as my coach, but the best one was when we won states together. It will forever be special because, immediately after Aquinas scored the winning goal in overtime, we ran over and hugged before we could even process what had happened. Winning states is one of the biggest accomplishments a high school athlete can achieve—but being able to do it with your dad as the coach is something that can never be matched.” – LJ Gleason ’25 “Coach Gleason has been more than just a coach to me—he’s been a father figure, a mentor, and a constant source of inspiration. His guidance, along with the unwavering support of his wife, has shaped me both on and off the field. I’m truly grateful for everything they’ve done and the impact they’ve had on my life. I wouldn’t be at Aquinas without their help—thank you so much!” – Pascal “TinTin” Pasia ’26
13 JAKE “GIBBY” GIBSON: Division I Lacrosse, Canisius University A standout goalie from the moment he first stepped into the net at age seven, Jake Gibson has built a reputation defined by grit and consistency. With more than 500 career saves and a key role in Aquinas’ 2024 Sectional Championship, he is now nearing the school record for most career saves. Jake is a two-time All-Tournament Team selection, a three-time Defensive Player of the Week, and an Athlete of the Week honoree. Beyond athletics, he is a member of the St. Basil Club and Core Team, and plans to study business management at Canisius University. More importantly, Jake treasures the friendships and mentorships that shaped his AQ experience. JEFFERY LOGAN III: Division I Football, Central Connecticut State University For twelve years, football has been the heartbeat of Jeffery Logan’s life. Beginning with the Ogden Bears Youth Program, Jeff learned early the value of teamwork and resilience—values that powered a defining moment in 2024 when he earned MVP honors in Aquinas’ Sectional Championship victory. A two-year honor roll student, Jeff has balanced academic achievement with athletic excellence. Supported by a strong network of family and friends, he heads to Central Connecticut State University to major in Exercise Science and continue his football career. SAVANNAH SWEET: Division II Soccer, Roberts Wesleyan University A four-year varsity soccer standout and two-time sectional champion, Savannah Sweet has been a force on the field since age four. This season alone, she recorded over 14 goals and 4 assists, including six critical postseason goals as Aquinas captured the Section V Class A title. Savannah’s leadership extends well beyond athletics: she is a Student Ambassador, a member of the Women’s Leadership Program, and a four-time recipient of the St. Joseph the Worker Community Service Award. She has also contributed over 40 service hours at Rochester General Hospital and volunteers at Pine Brook Elementary. Savannah will study nursing at Roberts Wesleyan, bringing with her the compassion, drive, and leadership that define her time at AQ. CALEB WOOD: Division II Lacrosse, Molloy University Whether on the ice at age three or picking up a lacrosse stick at seven, Caleb Wood has always been an athlete fueled by heart and energy. A varsity lacrosse player since 8th grade, he helped lead Aquinas to a Section V Championship and has competed on some of the region’s top travel teams, including FCA and 3D Upstate. He also excelled in hockey, serving as both assistant captain and captain. A two-time recipient of the Michael ’64 and Kathleen Piehler Scholarship, Caleb is known for his selflessness, determination, and infectious enthusiasm. He credits his family, teammates, and coaches for pushing him to grow— support that became the backbone of his success. Caleb will continue his lacrosse career at Molloy University while studying education, with dreams of eventually coaching youth hockey and lacrosse. A Celebration of Commitment Their journeys—filled with discipline, sacrifice, and growth—are the hidden stories that make Signing Day so meaningful. Congratulations to Jake, Jeffery, Savannah, and Caleb, and to the families, coaches, media, and mentors who supported their paths. Their next chapters begin now—and we cannot wait to see where their stories lead. Please note that statistics were submitted during the season, so some awards, goals, and accomplishments may not re ect their nal totals. National Signing Day 2025 e Dedication You Don’t Always See is fall, we gathered as a community to honor four remarkable student-athletes whose hard work, resilience, and passion have earned them the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level. National Signing Day is more than a ceremony—it is a celebration of the unseen hours, the quiet perseverance, and the stories of growth that have shaped each athlete’s journey. JAKE “GIBBY” GIBSON JEFFERY LOGAN III CALEB WOOD SAVANNAH SWEET
THE HEART OF AQ BOXING Coach Dom’s journey with boxing began as a fifth grader at Most Precious Blood Grade School, when Father Biondi introduced him to the Aquinas Mission Bouts. “I thought not only were the Aquinas kids tough, but also kind,” he recalls. That early impression inspired a lifelong connection. From his own boxing years at Aquinas under the guidance of coaches like Hunk Vadas, Leo Hand, and Al Broccuto, to assisting with the program in the late ’70s, Dom returned in 1980 as Head Coach—a role he would hold for 45 years. Over those decades, Coach Dom has witnessed extraordinary moments: lifelong friendships formed in the gym, the rise of the first female boxer, thrilling matches against rival schools, and even a visit from Muhammad Ali in 1994. Ali’s advice to Dom, “You’re the coach. Don’t screw it up,” became his guiding principle. “Whenever alumni boxers visit me and say the program was the best thing they ever did, I know we got it right,” Dom says. “Watching the program get inducted into the Aquinas Hall of Fame, or seeing alumni rally together to revive the Mission Bouts during Covid—that’s what made this all worthwhile.” But more than victories or accolades, Dom measures success by the lives shaped outside the ring. “I’ve watched boxers grow into good fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, and citizens. That’s the true achievement of this program.” “It’s not about the destination, but rather the journey.” – COACH DOM PASSING THE TORCH The decision to transition leadership to Josh and Henry marks a bittersweet moment for Dom. “I’m proud watching how Henry and Josh have interacted with the kids over the years. Both display tremendous knowledge of the sport, passion for the success of the program, patience, kindness, and love for the kids. They are perfect for leading the program into the future.” Henry describes stepping into this role as “scary—but mostly exciting. Coach Dom changed lives for 45 years. Now our goal is to grow this program and keep it thriving for another 45 years.” Josh adds, “Being a part of this program has given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment I didn’t even realize I was searching for. Stepping into this role is truly a dream come true.” Both share deep personal ties to AQ Boxing. For Henry, it was a way to continue a family tradition—watching his father and siblings grow through the sport. Josh recalls his senior-year fight against Ohio’s Golden Gloves champion: “Even though the call didn’t go my way, I still felt like I won. That fight shaped me. It taught me not to fear the unknown, to give my best no matter what.” “Lead with your heart—the heart knows what’s right, and if you truly listen to it, it will never lead you toward malice.” – HENRY KAESTER A VISION FOR THE FUTURE Henry and Josh are determined to honor the program’s legacy while building its future. “We want to introduce kids not only to the sport of boxing, but to the family that is Aquinas Boxing,” Henry says. “Our goal is to carry forward the same passion Dom poured into this program and use it to help these athletes become the best versions of themselves.” Both emphasize the lessons boxing teaches beyond the ring: perseverance, responsibility, humility, and the importance of community. Each practice ends with a student selecting a historical boxing quote to reflect upon— connecting the sport’s rich heritage with personal growth. “Boxing is a metaphor for life,” Josh explains. “You’re going to get hit. You can’t avoid failure, disappointment, or heartbreak. Getting hit doesn’t mean you lose—staying down does.” “Coach Dom taught me con dence, patience, grit, and—most importantly—to be kind and respectful to everyone around me.” – JOSH LEONARDO HIDDEN STORIES & LASTING IMPACT For both new coaches, AQ Boxing is about mentorship, leadership, and giving back. “We get to help these kids navigate a tumultuous time in their lives,” Josh says. “We give them context, guidance, and a safe space where they can think, grow, and discover what they’re capable of. I’m living a real-life dream.” Passing the Gloves For over four decades, the Richard A. Corbett ‘56 Boxing Program has been more than a sport—it has been a tradition, a community, and a proving ground for character, perseverance, and resilience. At the heart of it all has been Coach Dom Arioli ‘73, whose dedication, passion, and unwavering mentorship have shaped generations of students. This fall, a new chapter begins as Coach Dom passes the gloves to two of his own former students, Joshua Leonardo ’10 and Henry Kaester ’09, ensuring the spirit of AQ Boxing continues to thrive. athletics in action 14 AQUINAS LANDMARK | WINTER 2026
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