The spirit of the “Magnificent Mendel Monarchs” was truly felt on May 3, 2024, when the Mendel Alumni Association hosted its All-Class Reunion at Gaelic Park in Oak Forest, IL. The air buzzed with excitement as 250 alumni and friends gathered to commemorate decades of cherished memories and lifelong bonds. Among them were 53 members of the Class of 1973 and 20 members of the Class of 1974, celebrating their 50th anniversaries.

A Warm Welcome and Heartfelt Reflections

The event began with a prayer from Fr. Bill Sullivan (’59), who called for a moment of silence to honor the Mendel alumni who had passed away or were facing illness. Fr. Tony Pizzo, the Midwest Augustinians’ Prior Provincial, expressed his gratitude for the alumni’s unwavering support and encouraged them to remain involved with both the Alumni Association and Midwest Augustinian activities. Chairman Kelvin Lovely (’78) and President Tom Gavin (’67) took the stage, welcoming fellow Monarchs and encouraging everyone to make the most of this unforgettable evening.

Honoring Legacy and Achievement

The reunion was a night of celebration, as outstanding Monarchs were recognized for their significant contributions to their fields and the Mendel community:

Jack Vlazny (’61) received the inaugural “Jack Vlazny Lifetime Achievement Award” for his visionary leadership. He pioneered some of the association’s most beloved traditions, including the first All-Class Reunion, Hall of Fame, Golf Outing, and Christmas Celebration. Jack also held a special role as President of the Men of Tolentine from 1999 to 2012. The Augustinians awarded him an Affiliate “Filius Ordinis” in 2012, one of their highest honors.

John Boyer (’64), introduced by Dennis Heitzmann (’64), served as the Dean of the University of Chicago for over 30 years. During his tenure, Boyer doubled the university’s undergraduate enrollment while maintaining its elite academic reputation. The campus community recognizes his unparalleled leadership by naming a new Paris center in his honor: the University of Chicago John W. Boyer Center.

Bob Lopez (’73) fondly recalled his days at Mendel, sharing his love for the friendships he forged over the years. After graduating from Illinois State University, Bob built a distinguished career in sports administration, working at prestigious institutions like the University of Michigan, UCLA, Vanderbilt, San Diego State, Colorado, and Delaware.

Dan Rowan (’74), a renowned cardiologist, reflected on his football days at Mendel. He recounted the honor of playing for the Monarchs and shared a poignant story about performing life-saving heart surgery on Coach Joe Magee, leaving the room in stunned silence. Dan continues his work today with Northwestern Medicine.

A Joyful Conclusion

The evening culminated with everyone joining in a rousing rendition of the Mendel fight song, followed by heartfelt reunions among former classmates, teammates, and friends. Memories of studying in the classrooms, playing sports, and enjoying parties in the gym were shared as laughter and nostalgia filled the room. The reunion was an outstanding success, leaving everyone grateful to the Reunion Committee for their dedication and hard work in making it so special.

GO, YOU MEN OF MENDEL!