New friends were made and high school anxieties calmed on Thursday, 12th at Montini Catholic High School's First Step Social welcoming their Class of 2029. Montini Catholic's First Step Social is the first opportunity for Montini's newest freshmen to begin building class spirit and to get to know their fellow classmates and future friends. The informal event, facilitated by the school's Admissions team, included several small group games, led by members of Montini's Peer Ministry Team, intended to break the ice and get freshmen excited about their high school years. Parents were also invited to attend and gathered in a separate location in order to meet up with current parent ambassadors, ask questions and gain more insight in preparation for the next four years. Students and parents were treated to burgers and hotdogs via Tailgate Caterers in Lombard. "It was very exciting to have so many new Broncos and their parents on Montini Catholic's campus for our First Step Social," said Admissions Coordinator Sara McGady. "The goal of this event is to provide our new freshmen with a sense of familiarity when they walk through our doors again in August. We also wanted to give our new parents a chance to ask questions and meet fellow parents as they start their new journey as high school parents."

Montini Catholic was proud to honor fifteen special seniors on May 16th at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Celebration of Excellence Awards ceremony. The group represents what Montini Catholic endearingly defines as their graduating "Legacy Students" - students of alumni parents who also graduated from Montini Catholic. This year fifty-two 52 total students of alumni are carrying on their parents' legacies at Montini Catholic, a number that represents close to 10% of Montini's total student body. Each year senior legacy students are called up on stage to receive a special stole to be worn at graduation. Alumni parents are also invited to take a special portrait with their senior as a keepsake on graduation day. "We are always honored when our alumni return as Montini parents to continue our Bronco legacy," said Alumni Relations Officer William Dawes '13. "When you are at Montini Catholic, you are family, which is one of the main reasons parents choose Montini. An education at Montini is a unique experience and we love to see our legacy grow with each passing year." Montini Catholic's 2024-25 Legacy Seniors (alumni parent(s) under students' names): Katelyn (Kat) Bell ‘25 Jackson Bell ‘27 Patrick Bell ‘96 Peter Considine ‘25 Michael Considine ‘86 Annalee DeFeo ‘25 Laura (LaMontagna) DeFeo ’93 & Michael DeFeo ‘93 Nolan Ferris ‘25 Shannon (O’Connor) Ferris ‘93 James Fitzpatrick ‘25 Michael Fitzpatrick ‘88 Zoe Gangas ‘25 Nick Gangas ‘81 Sean Hubeny ‘25 Katie (Doll) Hubeny ’96 & James Hubeny ‘96 Nick Irion ‘25 and Vince Irion ‘25 Dave Irion ‘88 Vincent Knudtson ‘25 Lia (Badalamenti) Knudtson ‘89 Jamie Loftus ‘25 Christina (Connelly) Loftus ‘86 Margaret Nielsen ‘25 Maureen (O’Neill) Nielsen ‘87 Ava Sebben ‘25 Patricia (Gary) Sebben ‘90 Lily Spanos ‘25 Shannon (Herold) Spanos ‘99 Collins Whitfield ‘25 Katherine (Janko) Whitfield ‘00 Collins Whitfield ‘00 Image above: Front l to r: Lily Spanos, Ava Sebben, Margaret Nielsen, Jamie Loftus, Sean Hubeny, Zoe Gangas, Nolan Ferris, Annalee DeFeo and Kat Bell; Back row l to r: Collins Whitfield, Vincent Knudtson, Vince Irion, Nick Irion, Jimmy Fitzpatrick and Peter Considine;

Montini Catholic congratulates senior Julia Gergen on being this year's recipient of the Jean Diane Colletti Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship is one of several that have been named and endowed by Montini Catholic alumni, parents and friends in order to provide financial assistance to graduates pursuing higher learning in college. The award was announced at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's annual Academic Awards Banquet (May 1st) this spring by Dr. Vince Colletti DDS '05 (son of Jean Diane Colletti) Julia was honored again on May 16th at Montini's Celebration of Excellence Award ceremony in front of the entire student body. Julia has been a very academically accomplished student throughout their four years at Montini Catholic. In May she received the President's Award for Academic Excellence, she is an Illinois State Scholar and a College Board Advanced Placement Scholar. Julia was also a member of Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society as well as Montini's National Honor Society where she served as Secretary her senior year. She enjoyed her time as a member of Montini's Math Team, and celebrated their 6th Place State finish this year. Julia also valued her experience gained from serving her fellow students as a Peer Minister through Montini's Campus Ministry program. Athletically, Julia was a valued member of Montini's Track & Field Team and celebrated securing school records her junior year in the 4x100m and 4x200m races. "Julia has been an outstanding student," said Principal Chris Tiritilli. "Her academic and athletic career here at Montini has been quite extensive and impressive. She is never seen without a smile on her face, she has been a role model to her fellow students. She truly deserves this recognition and we know she will do great things at Notre Dame!" Julia, a St. Pius X Parish School alum, and a member of St. Pius X Parish. She plans on majoring in Biological Sciences on a Pre-Med Track at the University of Notre Dame in the fall. Above: Julia Gergen '25 and Dr. Vince Colletti DDS '05 at Montini Catholic's Academic Awards Night on May 1st.

Congratulations to Montini Catholic's Michael May '26 for earning the 2025 Weisenburger Family Scholarship The scholarship is awarded annually to a student at Montini Catholic High School who has expressed an interest in pursuing a degree in education and was presented by Kimmy '07 and Wally Weisenburger '75 during Montini Catholic's Celebration of Excellence Awards Ceremony on Friday, May 16th. Michael, Monitni's newly elected Student Government president, was selected for his demonstration of outstanding leadership in the classroom as well as in extracurricular activities throughout his high school career as a Montini Bronco. Michael is a member of Montini Catholic's National Honor Society (inducted in the fall of his junior year) as well as Montini's Tri-M Music Honor Society. He is currently the 'voice of Montini' as a key member of the Bronco Broadcasters Team, winning the 2025 Most Valuable Player award this year for his devotion to the club's success. Michael is also a member of A Cafellas (singing group), Lasallian Youth, Chinese Club and contributes to the Bronco Breakdown (newsletter). He is no stranger to the Montini stage, starring in two theatre productions this year, "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and "Murder on the Orient Express." The Weisenburger Family Scholarship is offered each year in gratitude for the transformative Lasallian education that was received by Cathy '70, Marc '71, Carolyn (Drengler) '72, Wally '75, Joe '78, Andrew '05 and Kimmy '07 Weisenburger. It was created to honor and remember Walter and Catherine Weisenburger who, as patriarchs of the family, recognized and valued Catholic education. "It is a special thank you for all they sacrificed to send all four of their children to Catholic schools," said Wally, who was formerly the Chairman of Montini's Board of Directors. Image above: Michael May with Kimmy Weisenburger '07 and Wally Weisenburger '75

Montini Catholic in Lombard proudly congratulated this year's Pax Christi Instrument of Peace Award recipient from their Class of 2025. The prestigious award was announced on Friday, May 16th, during the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Celebration of Excellence Award Ceremony. This year's Pax Christi Instrument of Peace Award went to senior Daniel Sherman . Each year, this esteemed award recognizes a Bronco student who has devoted him/herself to God by working in the Lasallian tradition of serving others and building a heritage of faith in the Montini community. Daniel is a two year member of Montini's Peer Ministry Team - a faith-based team whose Christian mission is to inspire and motivate by example. He also earned his Eagle Scout rank which recognizes those who have a strong record of voluntary service to their community. He is a member of Montini's Lasallian Youth as well as a member of Montini's Student Government Exec Board. Academically, Daniel was most recently recognized as an Academic All Star at Montini's Academic Awards on May 1st. The honor is awarded each year to seniors attaining a 3.95+ GPA during their time as a Bronco student and/or earning Illinois State Scholar status. He is an Illinois State Scholar and an AP Scholar with Honor. He is a member of Montini's National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society and earned a Commendation Toward Biliteracy Award (Spanish) this year. During his time as a Bronco he enjoyed Chess Club, Math Team and History Club. Athletically, he was a four year team member of both the Cross Country and Track teams, earning Academic All Conference in both all four years. Daniel was also awarded the St. John Baptist de La Salle award during the Celebration of Excellence ceremony. "Daniel is a wonderful example of someone living our Lasallian mission," said Campus Minister Michael Blanchette. "He truly deserves this award as he has shown himself to be a dedicated young man who truly demonstrates dedication, reliability, and a commitment to his education and personal growth." Daniel, a graduate of St. Scholastica School in Woodridge, is headed to University of Wisconsin (Madison) this fall.

On behalf of the Considine Family Memorial Fund , Montini Catholic proudly awarded the 2025 Colleen Helen Considine Memorial Scholarship to senior Lily Spanos. The award, given to a senior who has demonstrated impressive academic and leadership achievements along with creativity and writing talent, was presented on May 1st at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's annual Academic Awards Night, and again, in front of Montini's entire student body, during their Celebration of Excellence Awards ceremony on Friday, May 16th. Lily, who served as President of Montini's Student Government this year, was most recently named an Academic All Star and was awarded the President's Award for Academic Excellence. She is a member of Montini's National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society. She also served her fellow students as a Peer Tutor and represented Montini to potential Broncos as a Student Ambassador. Lily also received Montini's St. Pope Paul VI Award for her service to the Bronco community as a member of Peer Ministry and the Gold Academic Medal for her work as President and Exec Board member of Student Government. Athletically, Lily was a two sport athlete (golf and basketball). Her final year on the Girls Basketball Team proved to be her best, as she helped to take the Broncos to a 3A State Championship celebration, earning an All Conference selection and IBCA All State Honorable Mention honor in the process. "We couldn't be more happy for Lily," said Montini Catholic President Kevin Beirne. "From the moment she became a Bronco, she has shown herself to be a true leader with a passion participation. She will be missed here at Montini, but we can't wait to hear about her many successes beyond our doors." At the age of 33, Colleen Helen Considine's life was tragically cut short. In an effort to honor her memory, the Considine family established an annual scholarship for Montini Catholic senior girls exhibiting many of the personality and leadership qualities that Colleen possessed. Colleen's mother, Mrs. Joan Considine, was the English Department chair and faculty member for twenty-eight years at Montini Catholic. In the years prior to her death in 2015, Mrs. Considine chose the recipient of the scholarship each spring based on her experiences as a teacher with her students. Today, students hoping to receive the $2,000 scholarship are asked to submit a written essay describing an event that touched them and inspired them to pursue excellence. Of the applications received this year, Lily's best captured the essence of the award. Since its inception, over thirty talented young Bronco seniors have received this special scholarship. Lily is a graduate of St. Petronille School in Glen Ellyn and a member of St. Petronille Parish. She will be attending Dickinson College in Pennsylvania and pursuing a Business and Management degree. Image above: Lily Spanos with Colleen's niece and nephew, Maryfath Considine '27 and Peter Considine '25

Montini Catholic, on behalf of the Karl Weiger Family, announced the twelfth annual Johnathan Weiger "Johnny Always Wins" Memorial Scholarship recipient, William Howenstein, from the Bronco Class of 2028. William is a graduate of Gregory Middle School, Naperville. William received recognition from the Weiger Family at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Celebration of Excellence Awards Ceremony on May 16th. Each year, members of Montini's incoming freshman class are invited to submit an essay in order to be considered for the scholarship. The Weiger Family selects a student displaying high moral character, a deep commitment to their faith, and achieving academic excellence at the grade school level, to receive the scholarship. William will receive a scholarship of $1,000 per year during his four years at Montini Catholic. Johnny Weiger joined Montini's school community for the 2011-12 school year as a member of the Class of 2015. He was also a member of Montini's football team with aspirations to continue his football career at Notre Dame. During Johnny's freshman year, he was diagnosed with leukemia. After undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and a bone marrow transplant, his leukemia was cured. As Johnny was preparing for his sophomore year, however, he was hospitalized with a rare blood disorder commonly referred to as TTP, which can be caused by a bone marrow transplant. He passed away on November 4, 2012 due to complications from the TTP. Throughout his battle with leukemia and TTP, Johnny displayed the spirit of a champion. He always showed great courage, fight and a deep commitment to his faith." The legacy of Johnny Weiger is celebrated every year at Montini Catholic's annual Johnny Football Game. Fans wear orange to spread awareness for those battling leukemia. Eighth grade students accepted to Montini Catholic (after taking Montini's December 6, 2025 Placement Test) will be invited to submit an application for the 2026-27 Johnny Weiger Memorial Scholarship in January of 2026. Image above: William Howenstein '28 with Karl and Fran Weiger (Johnathan's parents) and Johnathan's sister, Lauren

Montini Catholic awarded Music Director and teacher, Mr. Donnie Glowinski their prestigious Lasallian Educator Award for 2025 . The honor was presented at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Celebration of Excellence Awards ceremony on Friday, May 16th. Each year the honor goes to a faculty member who represents Montini's Lasallian spirit of education by 'touching the hearts' of their students and colleagues. "For the past six years, Mr. Glowinski has poured his heart, energy, and talent into teaching music at Montini," said President Kevin Beirne during his presentation of the award. "With a total of thirteen years in high school education, including time spent at another Lasallian school, St. Patrick High School in Chicago, he brings both experience and deep dedication to his students and his craft." During his tenure at Montini, Mr. Glowinski has taught a wide range of courses: Concert Choir, Varsity Singers, Chamber Choir, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Music Appreciation, and both Digital Music I and II. "But, beyond the classroom, his influence runs even deeper," said President Beirne. "He serves as a Department Chair and contributes actively to school leadership through his service on the Schedule Committee, Management Council, and Academic Advisory Committee. He is the moderator of Treble Makers and Acafellas, the advisor for the Tri-M Music Honor Society, Music and Pit Director for the Spring Musical, and Montini's Auditorium Coordinator. His commitment extends beyond the walls of the school, this past school year, he helped lead service work at two Ronald McDonald Houses with his Tri-M student members and supported a student retreat." When asked why he teaches at Montini, Mr. Glowsinski says it's because of the students. In his own words, "They touch our hearts more than we touch theirs." A perspective, says President Beirne, that makes him not only an extraordinary educator respected by all of his students, but a true Lasallian, one who teaches with compassion, humility and joy. "From directing the choir during Masses to producing three concerts per year, to singing "Blue Christmas" at our Christmas Lunchtime Karaoke event, he sets an example for all Lasallian educators." Under Mr. Glowinski's leadership Montini’s Music Program has reached new heights this year - including their recognition as the Top Catholic High School Band in the nation (National Catholic Band Association). In May, Montini's Tri-M Chapter, under his leadership, tied as the winner of the 2024-25 State Tri-M Chapter of the Year Award for Illinois for their outstanding contribution to their music program and to their community. Mr. Glowinski was acknowledged by this award for his hard work and dedication to supporting his student leaders. "Mr. Glowinski has built an inclusive, welcoming, and joyful community through music - one that uplifts every student who walks into his room," concluded President Beirne. "He is respected by his colleagues, admired by his students, and always looking for ways to support others across our school community - a true role model, and a shining example of the Lasallian charism, service, and the transformative power of education through music."