In a heartfelt ceremony blending tradition, education, and gratitude, the Mendel Alumni Association celebrated excellence in science while giving back to its roots. On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Association President Tom Gavin, Secretary Mike Dreznes, and Veterans Committee Chairman Andy Youpel presented the prestigious 2025 Gregor Mendel Science and Technology Awards to two outstanding seniors from Saint Rita of Cascia High School: Anthony Rusch and Charles Skoczylas.

Named after the pioneering Augustinian friar and father of modern genetics, the awards recognize exceptional achievement in the sciences. Both recipients were honored for their dedication and promise in STEM fields, receiving personalized certificates from the Mendel CHS Alumni Association in partnership with Saint Rita’s Science Department. In addition to the recognition, Anthony and Charles each received a $500 honorarium to support their upcoming college educations.

“This is the second year we’ve had the privilege of presenting these awards to deserving St. Rita seniors,” said President Tom Gavin. “We’re excited to watch Anthony and Charles achieve great things in college and beyond—they embody the spirit of innovation that Gregor Mendel himself championed.”

The event, held at Saint Rita of Cascia High School, featured a group presentation where the young scholars stood alongside alumni leaders and school representatives. Photos from the ceremony capture the pride of the moment, with Anthony and Charles in their school uniforms, medals around their necks, holding a ceremonial check alongside mentors and a priest in vestments.

Adding to the day’s significance, President Gavin announced a generous $5,000 donation from the Mendel Alumni Association to the Midwest Augustinians. This gift supports the elderly friars who once taught at Mendel Catholic High School, ensuring their legacy of education and service continues. A separate photo highlights the donation presentation, showing alumni members proudly displaying the oversized check in front of a portrait of an Augustinian figure.

The Mendel Alumni Association, founded in 1951, remains committed to fostering connections among graduates of the historic Mendel Catholic High School while supporting Catholic education in Chicago. Events like this underscore the association’s ongoing mission to inspire the next generation and honor those who paved the way.