The Mendel High School Alumni Association continued a growing tradition on September 23, 2026, honoring two St. Rita High School seniors with the Gregor Mendel Science & Technology Awards. During an Award Mass held in the St. Rita High School Chapel, Logan Patrick Shields and Anthony William Carter were recognized for their outstanding achievement, dedication and promise in science, technology, …
Mendel alumnus William “Bill” Taylor ’66 has spent years preserving and sharing a remarkable story of service, survival and remembrance. Taylor, an author and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, attended Mendel Catholic High School from 1962 to 1966. The Mendel Alumni Association has previously recognized Taylor as an alumnus, author and speaker. Mendel Center for the Humanities After Mendel, Taylor joined …
On Friday, August 21, 2026, 79 Mendel Monarchs, alumni, friends and supporters gathered at Hickory Hills Country Club for the 27th Annual Mendel Monarchs Fore-Ever Golf Outing. A sunny morning and shotgun start kicked off a full day of golf, friendship and familiar Mendel camaraderie. More importantly, the outing raised just over $14,000 for the Mendel Alumni Association. Proceeds will …
For generations of Mendel men, a few familiar notes could bring everything rushing back. “Go You Men of Mendel” was part of the soundtrack of school life, heard at games, rallies, reunions and gatherings where the Mendel spirit was on full display. Decades after Mendel Catholic closed its doors, alumni are still singing it together. It remains one of those …
In the days following the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center, countless people stepped forward to help in any way they could. Among them was Dr. Michael Garvey, Mendel Class of 1968, whose work focused on some of the disaster’s most vulnerable victims. Garvey and his colleagues helped provide veterinary care for search-and-rescue dogs working at Ground …
The Mendel Alumni Association thanks Orland Park Supervisor Paul O’Grady for his generous support of the Mendel Monarchs and the 2026 Mendel Golf Outing. Paul’s brother, Steve O’Grady ’73, recently presented a sponsorship check to fellow Mendel alumnus Jim Panozzo ’73. The contribution sponsored a hole at the Mendel Golf Outing held August 21, 2026. Support like this helps keep …
The 2026 Mendel Monarchs Fore-Ever Golf Outing will feature two great raffles, with prizes ranging from Chicago sports tickets and golf gear to travel bags, outdoor equipment and collectibles. Premium Raffle – Red Tickets The Premium Raffle features eight prize packages: 1P & 2P – Chicago Bulls TicketsTwo tickets to a Chicago Bulls game during the 2026-2027 season. Section 301, …
The Mendel Alumni Association invites all Mendel men, alumni, family, friends, and supporters to take part in the 27th Annual Mendel Monarchs Fore-Ever Golf Outing on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Hickory Hills Country Club. This annual outing is more than a day on the course. It is a chance to keep the Mendel spirit alive, reconnect with classmates, support …
A wonderful story featuring Michael Mason, Mendel Catholic High School Class of 1974. After a distinguished 23-year career with the FBI, where he rose to executive assistant director, Michael Mason found another way to serve. During a school bus driver shortage in Chesterfield County, Virginia, he stepped forward and became a school bus driver to help students and families in …
For many Mendel alumni, the school fight song was more than something sung at a game. It was part of the sound of Mendel. It was pride, tradition, and brotherhood in a few unforgettable lines. Back in 1995, the Chicago Tribune told the story of Jack and Mike Dreznes, two Mendel Catholic graduates who helped bring that tradition back to …
In a moving Memorial Day tribute filmed in downtown Chicago, Andy Youpel created a video honoring the Mendel Monarchs who made the ultimate sacrifice. The video serves as a powerful reminder that Memorial Day is not only a day off, but a day to pause, reflect, and honor those who gave everything in service to our country.
The Mendel Alumni Association Veterans & First Responders Committee, chaired by Andy Youpel, is helping organize a special Mendel Honor Flight for Mendel veterans. The trip is being planned for the Spring/Summer of 2027 and will include up to 35 Mendel veterans and their guardians on a private flight from Midway Airport to Washington, D.C. There is absolutely no cost …
Great story https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/17/world/europe/robert-prevost-pope-leo-xiv.html
On Friday May 1, 2026, two hundred and seventy Monarchs and their guests gathered at Gaelic Park in Oak Forest, Illinois to celebrate the 2026 All-Class Reunion of the Mendel Alumni Association. Since this All-Class Reunion is only held every two years, the Classes of 1955, 1956, 1965, 1966, 1975, 1976, 1985 and 1986 were the Honored Classes this year. …
There are moments when a name feels bigger than a headline—and for the Mendel community, this is one of them. Judge Fredrick H. Bates, Class of 1976, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Vanguard Award from the Chicago Bar Association, one of the highest honors recognizing leadership in advancing equity and access within the legal profession. The award …
The Mendel Alumni Association continues to build something special. What started in 2023 as a small but meaningful effort has quickly grown into one of the most impactful traditions tied to the legacy of Mendel High School. The Legacy Award Program, created to support high school seniors who are descendants of Mendel alumni, is gaining momentum year after year—and 2026 …
Old Timers Basketball Game Returns There are games… and then there are Mendel games. On Saturday, May 2, the gym comes back to life as Mendel Alumni face off against the Catholic League All-Stars in a true throwback showdown. This isn’t just a game—it’s a reunion, a rivalry, and a reminder of what Mendel meant to the South Side. Former …
Mendel Catholic Prep is proud to share that alumnus Judge Fred Bates (Class of 1976) will be recognized at the 2026 Vanguard Awards, taking place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the Union League Club of Chicago. The Vanguard Awards celebrate individuals and organizations who have made a lasting impact on the legal profession by advancing accessibility, equity, and service …
Watch the video Tony Wilkins said it best—Mendel was a true melting pot from 1971–1979. Guys from Mt. Greenwood, Hegewisch, Roseland, Pullman, Chatham, Grand Crossing, Auburn Gresham, South Shore and beyond all came together during a time when the South Side was changing fast. But inside the Mendel gym, something powerful was building. In the early 70s, it started with …
Check Out the Latest Mendel Minuet with Derek Lott
New for 2026 Bid Remotely on Mendel Reunion Auction Items — For the First Time Ever! Mendel Alumni and Friends everywhere can now join the 2026 All-Class Reunion Silent Auction, even if you can’t attend in person. Whether you’re joining us at the Mendel All-Class Reunion on May 1, 2026 or cheering the Brotherhood on from afar, you can now …
There’s something about Mendel that never really stayed contained inside its walls. It didn’t end when the bell rang.It didn’t end when the building closed.And for some… it didn’t even stay in Chicago. For Bishop Daniel Turley, Class of 1960, the journey started on the South Side—just another student walking the halls of Mendel Catholic High School. A kid in …
Check out the latest Mendel Minute with Derek Lott
When PBS host Henry Louis Gates Jr. recently met Pope Leo XIV for a special genealogy segment, it sparked national attention around the Pope’s personal story and roots. For the Mendel community, that story feels especially close to home. Pope Leo’s family has deep ties to Mendel Catholic High School: his mother worked as a librarian at the school, his …
Look who’s already coming to the Mendel Alumni Reunion!We’re excited to see familiar names rolling in—and this is just the beginning. More classmates are confirming every day. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the night. Class of 1955 Class of 1956 Class of 1959 Class of 1960 Class of 1961 Class of 1962 Class of 1963 Class of …
The Mendel Alumni Association is proud to announce the final results of the 2025 Gregor Mendel Appeal, and the response from our alumni community has been nothing short of extraordinary. Thanks to the generosity of 124 donors, this year’s appeal raised a record-setting $16,230, making 2025 the most successful Gregor Mendel Appeal to date. This achievement reflects the deep and …
The latest Mendel Minute with Derek Lott is now available in the Mendel video library. In this short update, Derek extends a warm Happy New Year to the entire Mendel community and shares his hopes for a strong, connected year ahead. He also puts out an important call for volunteers, inviting alumni to step forward and serve as Class Leaders. …
The Mendel Alumni Association continued a cherished Monarch tradition with the Christmas R.O.M.E.O. (Random Old Monarchs Eating Out) Luncheon, held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Lencioni’s Pub & Grill in Lynwood, Illinois. From noon to mid-afternoon, Mendel alumni from across class years gathered to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the season together. Hosted by Terry Jarosky ’64, the luncheon …
The Mendel Alumni Association is proud to announce the 2026 Legacy Academic Award, continuing our commitment to honoring family tradition, academic achievement, and the lasting legacy of Mendel Catholic High School. Award Details The Mendel Alumni Association will award up to $1,000 to eligible high school graduates who have a family member that attended Mendel Catholic High School. This award …
Celebrating Derek C. Lott ’84 and the Mendel Minute The Mendel Alumni Association is proud to shine a spotlight on Derek C. Lott ’84, whose recent Mendel Minute videos have brought a new level of clarity, energy, and professionalism to our alumni communications. Derek has long been known for his ability to command a room, connect with people, and deliver …
A compelling new documentary produced by the Dicastery for Communication of the Holy See, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Apostolate El Sembrador Nueva Evangelización (ESNE), takes viewers on the life-journey of Pope Leo XIV. The film chronicles his early years in Dolton, Illinois, through the voices of his brothers Louis and John, schoolmates, teachers, and longtime …
On Sunday, November 9, 2025, thirty Mendel Monarchs met at St. Barnabas Church to honor the memories of sixteen Monarchs who were killed in Vietnam as well as three Monarch First Responders who died in the line of duty in what was appropriately called “Memorial Sunday.” After a special Veterans Day Mass that included a wonderful homily by the Pastor …
Mendel Catholic High School alumnus Don Triveline will be a featured panelist at the Michigan Epilepsy Foundation’s Wellness and Epilepsy Conference, delivering a presentation titled “Dream Big: Setting Goals and Creating Your Own Path.” This year’s conference focuses on helping individuals with epilepsy build independent and fulfilling lives through strong support systems, education and career planning, and goal-setting. Don’s session …
Lake Central High School is hosting its 2025 Veterans Day Ceremony on Thursday, November 6th, and we’re calling on all Mendel alumni in the Northwest Indiana area to come out in support of our local veterans and community. Bill Taylor’s “66” will be a speaker at the event. He is supposed to speak about 50 minutes into the program. Event …
The Mendel Alumni Association Veterans & First Responders Committee invites all Monarchs, families, and friends to a special Memorial Sunday on November 9, 2025. Together we’ll honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans and first responders with Mass, wreath-layings at local graves, and fellowship afterward. All are welcome. Schedule 10:00 AM – Memorial MassSt. Barnabas Church — 10134 S. …
When the news broke that Fr. Bob Prevost, O.S.A. had been elected Pope Leo XIV, it sent ripples of joy through Augustinian circles worldwide — and through the Mendel Catholic High School community here at home. While Pope Leo XIV himself wasn’t a Mendel alumnus, his family’s connection to the school runs deep. His brothers attended Mendel, and his mother …
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 a beautiful Tuesday, September 9, 2025 night, the Mendel Catholic Prep Alumni Association hosted an unforgettable gathering that brought together proud Men of Mendel for a special cruise on the Chicago River. Alumni and guests embarked on the maiden voyage of the “Augustinians on a Boat” event, with the Midwest Augustinians as the esteemed Guests of Honor aboard the …
Introduction to Toastmasters International For those unfamiliar, Toastmasters International is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to developing public speaking and leadership skills. With over 345,000 members across more than 140 countries, Toastmasters provides a supportive environment for individuals to hone their communication abilities through local clubs, workshops, and competitions. Its flagship event, the World Championship of Public Speaking, is the …
We had a fantastic turnout with 22 attendees at the recent ROMEO event held at Lencioni’s Pub & Banquets, 3325 Glenwood Dyer Road, Lynwood. A special thanks to Terry Jarosky – Class of 1964 for organizing this gathering. The event was filled with good food, good friends, and a great time. We look forward to seeing everyone again at future …
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 …
Watch Derek Lott’s Mendel Minute about this years golf outing.
Watch this young filmmaker’s journey through the South Side to show Pope Leo XIV’s humble beginnings.
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 …
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 …
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 …
Dear Mendel Catholic High School Alumni and Friends, With hearts full of joy, we join the global Catholic community in celebrating the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025. As the first American pope, his historic ascent to the papacy is a moment of immense pride for Chicago’s South Side and the Augustinian …
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 …
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!
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 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 …
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 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 …
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 …
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 …
On November 13, 2024, a group of Mendel alumni affectionately known as the “ROMEOs” (Random Old Monarchs Eating Out) met at Beggars Pizza in Blue Island, Illinois, for a day of camaraderie and connection. This special gathering brought together proud alumni: The ROMEOs tradition exemplifies the enduring bonds of the Mendel community, showcasing the pride and joy of reconnecting with …
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: …
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 …
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 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 …
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 …
DAN HAMPTONAUTOGRAPHEDSUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS FOOTBALL
BRAND NEW SET OF LEFT HANDED PGM GOLF CLUBS INCLUDES A GOLF BAG
PETALS FROM ROSELAND BOOK AUTOGRAPHED BY AUTHOR CJ MARTELLO
TENNESSEE TITANS HELMET AUTOGRAPHED BY HEAD COACH BRIAN CALLAHAN AND HIS OFFENSIVE LINE COACH (AND FATHER) BILL CALLAHAN (‘74)
TWO (2) TICKETS TO CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MAIN FLOORRavel BoleroSaturday June 8, 20247:30 PM
TWO (2) TICKETS TO CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MAIN FLOORHelmchen Plays BeethovenSaturday May 18, 20247:30 PM
ALL CENTURY TEAM 1999 HARDCOVER BOOK SIGNED BY HARMON KILLEBREW & PAUL MOLITOR
CHICAGO CUBS COLLECTION INCLUDING 2016 WORLD SERIES HAT
JONATHAN TOEWS AUTOGRAPHED JERSEY
WHITE SOX WORLD SERIES & BEARS SUPER BOWL XLI MUGS
Includes 2005 World Series Hat, Custom Made large blanket, Giant White Sox Pez Dispenser, various autographed baseballs, Sox bags, towels, and water dispenser.
FISHERMAN’S PACKAGEIncludes a never used Shakespeare Ugly Stik Rod with an Ozark 3 Pound Spinning Reel, a Fisherman’s Folding Chair & a “Fishes of the Great Lakes Region” jigsaw puzzle.
“THE TRIALS OF BILLY DEAN SMITH” AUTOGRAPHED BOOKA True Story of Murders on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula(MULTIPLE COPIES AVAILABLE)
NOTE: YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO PLAY IN THE MENDEL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION GOLF OUTING ON JULY 10, 2024 AT HICKORY HILLS TO BID ON THIS ITEM
Signed print of Negro League “Batting Champs” of Negro League (& MLB Hall of Fame Members) stars including James “Cool Papa” Bell, Monte Irvin, and Lou Dials. Includes Certificate of Authenticity with Video & Photo of signing while all three were alive in Las Vegas Nevada over 30 years ago.
CHICAGO WHITE SOX REPLICA 2005 WORLD SERIES RING IN ORIGINAL BOX
THREE (3) TICKETS TO NOTRE DAME VS NORTHERN ILLINOIS FOOTBALL GAME AT NOTRE DAME ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2024.ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY THE GAME FROM THE 8TH FLOOR OF THE LUXURIOUS, EXCLUSIVE DUNCAN CENTER SECTION OF NOTRE DAME STADIUM. INCLUDES ALL YOU CAN EAT AND DRINK DURING THE GAME PLUS A PARKING PASS
M&R RUSH MEMORABILIA
RIDGE COUNTRY CLUBGOLF FOURSOMEINCLUDING CARTS
LONG BEACH COUNTRY CLUB MICHIGAN CITY, INDIANAGOLF FOURSOMEINCLUDING CARTS
HARLEY DAVIDSONPATRIOT FATBOY MOTORCYCLE DOODY DOODLESFINE ART GICLEE13” X 19” PRINT
JERRY GARCIA DOODY DOODLESBlues Art Giclee13” X 19” Print
Eric Clpaton DOODY DOODLESBlues Art Giclee13” X 19” PrintERIC CLAPTON