WGN News | Pope Leo Feature

On June 9, 2025, WGN presents a special feature delving into the life and legacy of Pope Leo XIV, a figure whose papacy left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church. This exclusive broadcast, accessible via the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvUb2UCM7lc, explores his rise to the papal throne, his influential reforms, and the controversies that defined his tenure. Join us as we …

History Speaks: Civil War Stories at Buckley Homestead

On June 7, 2025, the Buckley Homestead in Lowell, Indiana, came alive with the echoes of the past during the “History Speaks: Civil War Stories” event, hosted by Lake County Parks from 10 AM to 4 PM. This free event featured historical meet-and-greets, live encampments, food vendors, Jr. Soldier Training Field, authors in the park, presentations & exhibits, and interactive …

Honoring Officer Richard Barth: A Tribute by Mendel Alumni Association

On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Mendel Alumni Association paid tribute to fallen Downers Grove Officer Richard Barth (‘67), who was killed in the line of duty in 1974. In recognition of Officer Barth’s valor and ultimate sacrifice, the association presented $500 checks to two Catholic grammar schools in Downers Grove—St. Joseph’s School and St. Mary of Gostyn School—in his …

Honoring Brother Jack Hibbard, O.S.A. (’69) at the 2025 Augustinian Gala

Dear Mendel Alumni, On April 25, 2025, our Mendel Catholic High School community beamed with pride as our beloved Brother Jack Hibbard, O.S.A. (’69), was celebrated at the 2025 Augustinian Gala for his incredible 46 years of service to the Augustinian order. Held at the iconic Drake Hotel in Chicago, the evening kicked off with a warm reception at 6:30pm, …

Legacy Award Winners Announced

The Mendel Alumni Association is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Mendel Legacy Awards. This is a very talented group of individuals who had stellar high school careers. We look forward to watching them continue to achieve their potential in their colleges of choice. A total of $9,350 was awarded to these eleven talented and gifted individuals: Congratulations …

The Mendelian | Events May 2025

Mendel Catholic Prep Alumni Association Upcoming Events Mark your calendars for the following events in 2025: We look forward to seeing you at these events. Go, you Men of Mendel!

Downers Grove ROMEO

The next R.O.M.E.O. (Random Old Monarchs Eating Out) event is scheduled for Thursday, May 15, 2025, at noon. Join us at Ballydoyle Irish Pub, located at 5157 Main Street in Downers Grove, IL. Visit www.ballydoylepub.com for more details. This gathering is a chance to share memories and celebrate the start of spring with your Mendel brothers. Feel free to bring …

The Mendelian | Upcoming Events

The Mendel High School Alumni Association is thrilled to announce our exciting lineup of events for 2025! This year, we’re bringing our alumni community together with a series of gatherings that celebrate our shared history, honor our heroes, and create new memories. From veteran meetings to our annual gala, a memorial tribute, a Hall of Fame induction, a fun all-class …

Honoring Jack Vlazny: “Mr. Mendel” – A Legacy of Dedication and Service

On March 14, 2025, the Mendel Catholic High School community lost a true icon with the passing of Jack Vlazny, affectionately known as “Mr. Mendel.” For over 55 years, Jack devoted himself to preserving the legacy of his alma mater and supporting the Augustinians who shaped it. His brother, Jim Vlazny (Mendel ’59), chronicled Jack’s remarkable journey in a heartfelt …

Mendel Alumni Hall of Fame Unveils Class of 2025 Inductees

Get ready to celebrate the Mendel Alumni Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025, a remarkable group of graduates whose contributions continue to inspire and enrich their communities. These inductees will be honored at a special ceremony at St. Rita High School on Saturday, May 24, 2025. This year’s inductees include: Join us for an unforgettable afternoon as we pay tribute …

Mendel Alumni Reunite for a Heartwarming Cause

On Sunday, February 23, 2025, the Mendel High School alumni community gathered for a memorable event that blended nostalgia, camaraderie, and a deep commitment to giving back. The “Get Behind the Vest” Pancake Breakfast, held to support local first responders, welcomed a special guest—David Eigenberg, known for his role as Lt./Captain Christopher Herrmann on Chicago Fire. Leading the charge were …

Mendel High School Alumni Association: 2025 Legacy Award

The Mendel High School Alumni Association is proud to announce the 2025 Legacy Award. This award celebrates the achievements of immediate descendants of Mendel Catholic High School alumni and supports their continued education. Eligibility Requirements: Award Details: How to Apply: Verification: Applicants must sign and date the form to confirm that the provided information is accurate. Don’t miss this opportunity …

Gregor Mendel Science & Technology Award at St. Rita Recap

On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, on behalf of the Mendel Alumni Association,Andy Youpel presented two $500 Gregor Mendel Science & Technology Awards to St. Rita High School juniors Thomas Healy and Joseph Katalinic in recognition of their outstanding accomplishments in Science and Technology. Congratulations to Joseph and Tom! Their names have been added to the Gregor Mendel Science & Technology …

A Warm and Festive Gathering for the Mendel Family

As the holiday lights sparkled and the spirit of the season filled the air, members of the Mendel Alumni Association reunited to share laughter, stories, and friendship at the 2024 Christmas R.O.M.E.O. (Random Old Monarchs Eating Out). On Thursday, December 12, 2024, Monarchs from across the decades gathered at The Original Pancake House in Orland Park—graciously hosted by the family …

Support the Legacy: Join the First Gregor Mendel Annual Appeal!

TO ALL MENDEL MONARCHS One Week Into the First Gregor Mendel Annual Appeal! Thank you to everyone who has donated to the First Gregor Mendel Annual Appeal. While we have a long way to go to reach our goal of $15,000 during the 37 days of the Appeal before December 19, 2024, we are off to a good start. Donations …

Mendel High School Alumni Association Hosts Special Mass Honoring Southside Chicago Catholic High School Veterans & First Responders Killed in the Line of Duty

On Thursday evening, November 14, 2024, the Mendel High School Alumni Association held a heartfelt and powerful Mass at St. Cajetan Church to honor Southside Chicago Catholic High School Veterans and First Responders who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The event, organized by Andy Youpel, Chairman of the Mendel Alumni Association Veterans and First Responder Committee, …

Jerry Buttimer selected for St. Ambrose University Athletic Hall of Fame

Jerry Buttimer, Class of 1968, was selected for the St. Ambrose University Athletic Hall of Fame.St. Ambrose University announced that Jerry Buttimer has been selected for their Athletic Hall of Fame.Jerry was a Boston Marathon qualifier and shattered several school records. He crushedthe five-mile cross-country record in 1970 by nearly 45 seconds at the George Wyth RoadRace, finishing in a …

25th Annual Mendel Alumni Golf Outing: A Day of Fun, Competition, and Camaraderie

On Wednesday July 10, 2024, ninety-one golfers “teed it up” and participated in the 25th Mendel Alumni Association Annual Golf Outing at Hickory Hills Golf Course. This year’s Golf Committee, consisting of Chairman Bill Johnson (’68), Andy Youpel (’66), Tom Gavin (’67), John Knoebel (’75), Rich Williams (’62), Bill Duffy (’64), Rick Zarr (’71), Kelvin Lovely (’78), Pat Regan (’68) …

Mendel Alumni Association 2024 Legacy Award Winners Announced

The Mendel Alumni Association is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 Mendel High School Alumni Association Legacy Awards. Current High School Seniors who are a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of a Mendel Alumnus and who had been accepted at any institution of higher education for the 2023/2024 school year were eligible for the 2024 Mendel Legacy Award,   The …

Monarchs Shine at the 30th Annual Archbishop James P. Lyke Award Ceremony

On February 25, 2024, four exceptional Mendel Monarchs were honored with the prestigious 2024 African American Male Image Awards at the Archbishop James P. Lyke’s 30th Annual Celebration. The honorees, Richard Newton (’72), David Ireland (’78, a Mendel Alumni Association Board Member), Greg Kenner (’67), and Malik Jones (’87), were recognized for their remarkable talents, dedication, and commitment to Christian …

Supporting Our Heroes: A Heartfelt Contribution at the Pancake Breakfast

On a sunny Sunday morning, February 25, 2024, our community gathered at St. John Fisher for the annual “Get Behind The Vest” Pancake Breakfast, a heartfelt event dedicated to honoring our fallen heroes and supporting our active-duty officers. This year, we were proud to have Andy Youpel represent the Mendel Alumni Association, presenting a generous donation of $725. This contribution …

Monarchs Reunite at R.O.M.E.O. Event in Downers Grove

On a memorable Thursday, February 22, 2024, thirty distinguished Monarchs convened at Ballydoyle Irish Pub and Restaurant in Downers Grove, Illinois, for an evening of camaraderie and reminiscence. The event, part of the cherished R.O.M.E.O. (Random Old Monarchs Eating Out) series, was a vibrant gathering where stories spanning decades were shared among friends old and new. Hosted by Bill Duffy …

Mendel Catholic Prep Celebrates John W. Boyer as 2024 Man of the Year

We are delighted to announce that John W. Boyer, an alumnus from the class of ’64, has been honored as the 2024 Man of the Year. This accolade is bestowed upon individuals who have shown exceptional dedication and have made significant contributions to their field. John Boyer is renowned for his remarkable tenure as the Dean of the University of …

Rev. Gregor Mendel, O.S.A. Science & Technology Hall Rededication

The Rev. Gregor Mendel, O.S.A. Science & Technology Hall at St. Rita High School, which is the new permanent home for Mendel Memorabilia, trophies, and the Mendel Alumni Association Hall of Fame, was rededicated on January 10, 2024.  The Rededication of the Rev. Gregor Mendel, O.S.A. Science & Technology Hall included a Mass that was attended by the entire St. …

Join Us for the Next R.O.M.E.O. Gathering on February 22

We’re excited to announce our upcoming R.O.M.E.O. (Random Old Monarchs Eating Out) event, scheduled for Thursday, February 22, 2024. This gathering promises to be a delightful blend of camaraderie, nostalgia, and fun at Ballydoyle Irish Pub & Restaurant, located at 5157 Main St, Downers Grove, IL 60515. The event will run from 12 PM to 3 PM. Hosted by our …

Mendel Alumni Unite for Festive Cheer and Charity at ROMEO Christmas Luncheon

In the latest installment of our cherished ROMEO gatherings—Random Old Men Eating Out—the Mendel Alumni Association turned the page to the festive chapter of our recurring reunions. This All-Class Christmas Celebration at JJ Kelleys in the South Suburbs was a feast for the palate and a toast to our enduring brotherhood. From 11 AM to 2 PM, the air was …

Swing into Action with the Mendel Alumni at the 25th Annual Golf Outing!

Calling all Mendel Alumni and Friends! Mark your calendars for a day of camaraderie, competition, and charity on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at the stunning fairways of Hickory Hills Country Club. The Mendel Catholic Prep Alumni Association is excited to host the 25th Annual Mendel Alumni Golf Outing, an event that promises to be more than just a game. A …

A Legacy Rekindled: The Mendel High School Basketball Revival Game

On a brisk evening of December 12, 2023, a historic basketball clash unfolded at St. Rita High School. The Providence Catholic High School Celtics triumphed over the St. Rita High School Mustangs with a striking 60-41 victory. But beyond the score, this day marked a monumental occasion for the Mendel Men – the Mendel High School Basketball Revival Game, a …

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Rich Williams’ Christmas Cookie and Drink Recipes

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort that delicious homemade Christmas cookies and festive drinks can bring. This year, we are excited to feature nine delectable Christmas cookie recipes and three delightful drink recipes, courtesy of our very own Rich Williams. Whether you want to impress your loved ones, surprise your guests, or simply …

Mendel High School Basketball Revival Night

ATTENTION ALL MENDEL MONARCHS! We will “Turn Back the Hands of Time” on December 12, 2023!  Our Fellow Augustinians schools, St. Rita High School of Chicago and Providence High School of New Lenox will compete against each other in a Basketball Game on Tuesday December 12, 2023, at 7 PM at St. Rita High School. To honor our Mendel Basketball Teams of the 1950’s, 1960’s, 1970’s and 1980’s, we will celebrate a Mendel High School Basketball Revival at this game!  Both …

A Heartfelt Thank You After a Memorable Veterans Day Ceremony

As the echoes of our Veterans Day Ceremony linger in our hearts, we, the Mendel Newsletter Team, wish to express our profound appreciation to all who attended the event virtually or in person. Your presence deeply enriched the ceremony, turning it into a shared honor and remembrance for the brave men and women who have served our nation. We must …

A Night of Remembrance and Revelry: Mendel Alumni Basketball Event

Get ready to step into a time machine and relive the glory days! We are thrilled to announce an exciting evening of camaraderie and competition among our sister Augustinian schools, St. Rita and Providence High School. On the evening of Tuesday, December 12, at 7 PM, with a pregame reception starting at 5:45, the two schools will clash on the …

Honoring Service and Dedication: John Fanning (’68) Receives Prestigious Award

We are thrilled to share the news that one of our esteemed alumni, John Fanning from the class of ’68 and a dedicated member of the Mendel Alumni Association Board of Directors, has been honored with the Tinley Park VFW Veterans Volunteer Award. This accolade was presented to John last Friday, recognizing his exceptional volunteer service and steadfast commitment to …

Join Us for the Veterans Day Mass & Ceremony Livestream

As we approach Veterans Day, a day of honor and reflection, we are reminded of the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who have served our nation. To commemorate this important day, we are honored to invite you to join us virtually for a special live-streamed Veterans Day Mass & Ceremony. Date: Saturday, November 11, 2023Time: Starting at …

Tony Smith: The Mentor Who Uses Art to Shape Lives and History

The Mendel Alumni Association is proud to spotlight Tony Smith, a Mendel Catholic High School graduate who has seamlessly blended his talents as a multimedia artist with his vocation as an educator, mentor, and chronicler of cultural history. Smith’s journey from Mississippi to the heart of Chicago’s art scene, and eventually into the lives of young artists, is a narrative …

Gino Pacetti: A Melodic Farewell to the Southside Music Man

The Mendel Alumni Association mourns the loss of a beloved member, Gino T. Pacetti, who passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on November 4, 2023. His departure leaves behind a legacy that resonates with the same vibrancy as the music he so passionately taught and shared. Born on April 25, 1935, in Chicago to Thomas and Marie Pacetti, …

R.O.M.E.O. Gathering Takes Over J.J. Kelleys!

This month, the Monarchs took their royal appetite to J.J. Kelleys in Lansing, Illinois, and let’s just say, it was an afternoon to remember. A huge shoutout and heartfelt thank you to Terry Lynch for hosting this wonderful rendezvous. With 32 Monarchs in attendance, there was no shortage of laughter, memories, and of course, delicious food. But that’s not all! …

Veterans Day Mass & Ceremony – November 11, 2023

We are honored to invite you to join us for a meaningful Veterans Day Mass and Ceremony on November 11, 2023, at St. Rita High School, located at 7740 South Western Ave. This day is a time to honor and remember the brave men and women who have served our country and to pay tribute to the sacrifices they have …

Watch Archbishop Robert Prevost, O.S.A. becomes a Cardinal this weekend

On Saturday, September 30th at 3am central time (10am Rome Local time), Archbishop Robert Prevost, O.S.A., will formally become a Cardinal during the Vatican Consistory. He began his first assignment as a teacher at St Rita High School in Chicago and Tolentine College in Olympia Fields, Illinois. He continued his ministry in teaching and formation at St. Augustine Seminary in …

MENDEL ALUMNI 2023 GOLF OUTING

Despite getting rained out on July 12, 2023, we rallied on July 19 and had a very good event. Our original date of July 12 would have seen about 100 golfers. Due to out-of-town travelers and other commitments, on July 19 we had 72 golfers and about 8 others for dinner. The course was great fun, and the dinner was …

The Fascinating Origin of “Blue Smoke”!

Before the house parties, there was the glory on the fields, and we can thank the Class of ’75 for the mantra that kept Mendel a top contender and brought a revolution to Mendel, rewriting the rulebook with their prowess in sports. But there’s more to their story than meets the eye. Let’s journey back to 1971 and uncover the …

Las Vegas Hosts a Mini R-O-M-E-O Meetups

On Wednesday, May 26, 2023. John Lotito (’68). Greg Morin (’68) and Mike Dreznes (’68) conducted a “Mini R-O-M-E-O (Random Old Monarchs Eating Out) at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas Nevada. John and Greg live in Las Vegas, and Mike was visiting Las Vegas to give Vegas his money so they could build more casinos and hotels!Inline imageJohn Lotito …

Mendel Alumni Association Board Members Reconnect with Retired Augustinians at St. Anthony’s Village: A Heartwarming Visit Filled with Memories and Appreciation

On Wednesday, May 17, 2023, three Members of the Mendel Alumni Association Board of Directors,President Tom Gavin (’67), Secretary Mike Dreznes (“68), and Andy Youpel (’66) caravanned fromChicago to St. Anthony’s Village in Crown Point, Indiana, to visit with retired Augustinians, many of whomtaught at Mendel High School. The Mendel Board of Director Members were greeted by Fr. MikeO’Connor and …

UPDATE Italian American Club Remembers Mendel CHS

UPDATE 05/18/23: Zarr remembers more moments about his time at Mendel. Read his latest story here. Rick Zarr (’71) ran into CJ Martello, who writes for Fra Noi, an Italian American heritage magazine. CJ eloquently relives fond memories of growing up in Rosleand and attending Mendel. Read his story here. More about CJ – CJ Martello has returned to his …

ROMEO II Connects SW Side Alums

We had a great R-O-M-E-O (Random Old Monarchs Eating Out) Event on Monday, May 15, 2023, at the Original Pancake House in Orland Park.  We had 56 Monarchs in attendance. The food was great, and the comradery was even better. The highlights were a rousing rendition of the Mendel Fight Song and the presentation of a plaque to Lisa, the …

Hawkins (’79) Inducted into IBCA Hall of Fame

William “Billy” Hawkins is a name that is synonymous with excellence in basketball coaching. He has dedicated his life to the sport, inspiring and guiding young players to reach their full potential. His hard work and dedication to the game have not gone unnoticed, and his induction into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) Hall of Fame is a testament …

Mendel Legacy Scholarship Award Winners Announced

The Mendel Alumni Association launched the inaugural Mendel High School Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship in February 2023. For the first year, this Scholarship was only open to high school seniors at St. Rita High School, Providence High School, and Gwendolyn Brooks High School who had been accepted at any institution of higher education for the 2023/2024 school year. The Scholarship …

Hampton and O’Hare Inducted into the Catholic League Hall of Fame

Two Mendel Monarchs were inducted into the Chicago Catholic League Coaches Association Hall of Fame on Thursday April 27, 2023, at the Crystal Sky Ballroom in McCook, Illinois. Monarchs Mark O’Hare (‘72) and Michael Hampton (’82) were two of the eleven Inductees for the 2022-2023 Class of the Chicago Catholic League Coaches Association Hall of Fame. MICHAEL HAMPTON MENDEL CLASS …

Fr Sotak (’69) Honored by Midwest Augustinians

The Midwest Augustinian Gala was held last week, and it was a night to remember! The event honored one of our very own, Fr. John Sotak, a proud Mendel Catholic High School graduate. Fr. Sotak has immensely impacted the Augustinian community, and it was a privilege to recognize his contributions. Fr. Sotak has had an impressive career journey. After graduating …

Mendel Alum, St Cajetan, Host Moving Vietnam Veterans Mass

UPDATE April 25, 2023 | The event continues to impress, Chicago Catholic, The Newspaper for the Archdiocese of Chicago, featured this story. Read the story here. UPDATE April 6, 2023 | The event garnered such widespread attention that even The Beverly Review felt compelled to cover it. Read the story here. On the evening of March 29, 2023, the Mendel …

Top Chef Among our Midst

Chef Richard James Mendel Class of 1985 Executive Chef of Rick Bayless’s Frontera Grill. Chef Richard James has been cooking for 30 years and with Chef Rick Bayless for 20 years. He started as the grill cook in Frontera and was promoted to sous chef a year and a half later. He eventually became the managing sous chef of Frontera …

Augustian Magazine Internationally Lauds Mendel Alum Efforts

UPDATE TO THE PREVIOUS STORY. Augustian Magazine, delivered worldwide, including Rome, ran this two-page article describing the Vietnam Veterans Day Mass hosted by Mendel Alum at St. Rita High School. This is a huge accomplishment! From Augustinian Magazine Mendel Catholic High School Alumni Association Veterans Day Mass honoring Fallen Monarchs and First Responders, as well as all Mendel Veterans and …

Kelvin Lovely (’78) Presented With Prestigious Award

Our Mendel Alumni Association Vice-President, Kelvin Lovely (‘78), was presented with one of the 29th Archbishop James P. Lyke African American Male Image Awards on Sunday, February 26, 2023 Congratulations to Kelvin for this prestigious award!

Damone Bester (’88) discusses his new book

On Saturday, February 25, 2023, Damone Bester (’88) was invited by his Alma Mater, Illinois State University, to discuss his award-winning book  “Mendel” at Sip & Savor, at 528 South 43rd Street, in Chicago.    If you have not read “Mendel,” you are doing yourself a disservice.   It is an excellent read!  You can order it here, and don’t forget …

Inaugural ROMEO Breakfast brings Alumni Together from Across Chicagoland

This is a new concept that the Mendel Alumni Association has initiated to encourage more camaraderie and socialization among Mendel Alumni. Three or four times a year, we will choose a restaurant to meet for breakfast and to catch up on Mendel Alumni News. Our first R-O-M-E-O was held in Morgan Park at Lumes Pancake House and was a great …

Mendel Scholarships to Award Alumni Descendants

The ultimate purpose of the Mendel High School Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship is to memorialize Mendel High School and to foster Augustinian ideals of uniting people in the communion of mind and heart and the service of God’s people.   The Mendel High School Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship will be implemented in two phases: For 2023, two $1,000 Scholarships will be available for …

Midwest Augustinians offer gratitude to Mendel Alumni

Acta Non Verba We were honored to receive this excellent letter from Father Michael O’Connor expressing his gratitude for Mendel ALumnus’ help and support. The donation of $7,000 was recently made to support retired Augustinians. Pres. Tom Gavin, Chair Kirk Townsend, and Board Member Mike Foley are pictured with Fr Mike O’Connor, Fr Don Lewandowski, and several other Augustinians. Big …

MONARCHS WHO DIED IN THE LINE OF DUTY

The Mendel Catholic Prep community holds in its heart the brave alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country and communities. Nineteen Men of Mendel lost their lives in the line of duty—some as courageous soldiers in the Vietnam War, and others as dedicated police officers protecting Chicago and its suburbs. From Edwin Heisse (Class of 1957), …

Bill Callahan (’74) Induction into the Catholic League Hall of Fame

Billy Callahan, who played quarterback at Mendel had a storied career as an NFL and College Football Coach, culminating with the opportunity to be the Head Coach of the Oakland Raiders in the Super Bowl in 2003.  Billy was inducted into the Chicago Catholic League Hall of Fame on April 28, 2022.  Billy Callahan currently is the Offensive Line Coach …