Mendel Catholic Prep Alumni Association

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 …

On behalf of the Mendel Alumni Association, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made our 26th Annual Golf Outing a tremendous success! Held on July 25, 2025, at the beautiful Hickory Hills Country Club, this event brought together alumni, supporters, and community members for a day of camaraderie, competition, and giving back. A special thank you goes out …

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, …

Joe Magee, a legendary figure in Chicago’s high school football, was posthumously inducted into the Chicago Catholic League (CCL) Hall of Fame on May 1, 2025, during the 63rd CCL Hall of Fame induction ceremony at Crystal Sky Banquets in McCook, Illinois. Joined by his family, including his children and grandchildren, and fellow Mendel and CCL alumni, the event celebrated …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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, …

Join us in honoring the veterans and first responders of Chicago Southside Catholic High School who died in the line of duty. A special Mass will be held: Date: Thursday, November 14, 2024Time: 7 PMLocation: St. Cajetan Church, 2445 West 112th Street, Chicago, IL You can place a personal memorial message in the Mass booklet to honor a loved one: …

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) …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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. …