T h e N e w s l e T T e r o f M M I P r e P a r a T o r y s c h o o l

w I N T e r 2 0 0 9

NON-PROFITORGANIZATIONU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFREELAND, PA

PERMIT#11

MMI Preparatory School154 Centre StreetFreeland, PA 18224

Address service requested

Applicants report to the MMI Main Office (Ridge Street entrance) by 8:45 a.m. Testing takes approximately 3 hours and usually ends by 12:15 p.m.

January 24, May 2, June 17, 2009 Visitation Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 20 & March 19, 2009Mid-School Formal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 7, 2009Drama Presentation The Wizard of Oz . . . March 20 & 21, 2009Open House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 29, 2009Spring Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 25, 2009Wister Quartet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 4, 2009

Entrance Exam Testing Dates Upcoming Events

Founders’ Day: A beginning of new traditions

MMI Honorary Board holds Annual Meeting

The MMI senior class once again honored the school’s founders, Eckley and Sophia Coxe, with the annual Founders’ Day Ceremony on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving at St. James Church, Drifton, following a traditional Thanksgiving lunch sponsored by the Parent Faculty Organization.

The senior class officers first laid a wreath at the Coxes’ grave site at St. James Church, with a brief service inside the church, as is tradition every year. This year, a new tradition has begun. The sixth grade is now included in the commemoration.

The seniors presented to the sixth grade students a brief history of benefactors Eckley and Sophia Coxe and the beginnings of MMI. Seniors Adam Wisniewski, Mitch Sauers, Kristyn Lizbinski and Gabrielle Joseph talked about the history of Sophia as Angel of the Anthracite; Eckley and the history of the Coxe Brothers; mining life; how Eckley and Sophia cared about the quality of life of the miners and their families; and the Coxes’ impact on the community. They also discussed the history of how the Coxes started the then all-boys’ school and its development into the MMI of today. The sixth grade was encouraged to make their class story a part of MMI history.

MMI President Tom Hood spoke to the students about giving thanks to their families for their sacrifice and the opportunity to be a part of MMI, saying, “With great opportunity comes great responsibility. Be thankful for the opportunities you have and make the most of them here.”

MMI alumni also joined in the Founders’ Day celebrations once more. Alumni representing classes from the past four years gathered in the library to socialize and reconnect during a special Founders’ Day event sponsored by the MMI Alumni and Development Office.

The young alumni met with members of the junior and senior classes to serve as advisors of

the college application, selection and transition process. Topics of conversation included making the most of a campus visit; demystifying the college application process; making the most of time left at MMI; adjusting to campus life; and identifying ways to get involved on campus.

“The event showed me a lot about what college is like,“ said Stephanie Palko, a current MMI senior. Fellow senior Kristyn Lizbinski agreed, saying the alumni provided “really good insight into what next year will hold.”

MMI President Tom Hood welcomed at reception

Members of the MMI Honorary Board and the MMI Board of Directors attended the 13th Annual Honorary Board Meeting at the Valley Country Club. William Flood, Honorary Board Chair, presided at the meeting. New members appointed to the MMI Honorary Board are MMI President Emeritus Dr. William Shergalis ’58, Mountaintop, and Mr. Pasco Schiavo, Esq., Hazleton. Shown, seated, from left, are Joseph Turri ’45, Edward Sharp ’36, Agnes O’Donnell, Lucetta Alderfer, MMI Board Chair Andrea Kosko ’74, Lillian Urenovich and Barbara Ecker. Standing, from left, are MMI President Emeritus Joseph Rudawski, William Flood, Atty. Henry Giuliani, Donald Sanderson, Tim Farley, Brian Lucas ’84, Jeff Gicking ’75, William Spear, Jr. ’79, Nick Dei Tos ’71, Tim Twardzik and MMI President Tom Hood.

Welcoming Mr. Thomas G. Hood, center, as MMI's president are, from left: William Thomas, the Honorable Correale Stevens, Sally Thomas ’73 and Penn State Hazleton Chancellor Dr. Gary Lawler.

MMI Preparatory School formally welcomed Mr. Thomas G. Hood as the school’s new president with a reception hosted recently at the school by the MMI Board of Directors. Hood and his wife, Mary-Lee, were welcomed by alumni, staff, faculty, friends and family members. Approximately 100 people enjoyed the casual, convivial atmosphere of the evening.

Hood became the 10th president on August 1, 2008, taking the reins from Dr. William A. Shergalis, an alum from the class of 1958. In taking the presidency, Hood has committed to moving MMI into the future. “The many expressions of support and encouragement

See HOOD, Page 9

MMI senior class officers lay a wreath at the grave site of Eckley and Sophia Coxe as Reverend William O’Hara ’71, MMI faculty member, looks on.

2 11

570-636-1108570-636-0742 (fax)mmi@mmiprep.org (email)www.mmiprep.org (Internet)

MMI Preparatory School154 Centre StreetFreeland, PA 18224

From the President

Thomas G . Hood - President William A . Shergalis, Ph .D . ’58 – President Emeritus Joseph G . Rudawski – President Emeritus

MemorialsLibrary Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials and Honors donated between August 1 and October 31, 2008

In memory of Andrew BreznitskyAtty. & Mrs. James Senape, Jr.

In memory of Hugh L. Campbell III ’52Dr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of Charles Cox ’55Rev. David M. Bobbey ’55

In memory of Bernard Cudwadie ’65Mr. Nicholas Nemesh

In memory of Walter F. FloryshakMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clarke & Family

In memory of Eva FogashAtty. & Mrs. James Senape, Jr.

In memory of Shirley GalloMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clarke & Family

In memory of Atty. Morton Gordon ’52Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gicking & FamilyMr. & Mrs. Hans KoenigMs. Andrea Kosko ’74Mrs. Celeste Fellin KoskoMs. Mary Celeste KoskoMr. & Mrs. Lewis Matuella Ms. Paula RadickDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58Ms. Regina S. Steeber

In memory of Charles H. GriffithMr. Todd Caputo ’06Ms. Gretchen Caputo ’06

In memory of John J. Herkalo ’38Mr. & Mrs. Joseph G. Rudawski

In memory of Ruth Learn HerskerMr. Nicholas Nemesh

In memory of Catherine HochMr. & Mrs. Joseph MooreCurtis & Stacy Swearengen ’00

In memory of Ann JoyceAtty. & Mrs. James Senape, Jr.

In memory of Joseph LeganoskyDr. & Mrs. John Della Croce ’73

In memory of Stephen LizbinskiMr. & Mrs. Mark AnthonyMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clarke & Family

In memory of Alvan J. Lynn ’55Rev. David M. Bobbey ’55Mr. & Mrs. Robert GouldMr. & Mrs. Carl LynnMr. & Mrs. Daniel McCannMr. & Mrs. Joseph G. RudawskiMrs. Judith Lynn SchoenDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58Ms. Sandra TisiMr. & Mrs. Thomas Widmeier

In memory of Carl Lynn ’58Mr. & Mrs. Robert GouldMr. & Mrs. Carl LynnMr. & Mrs. Daniel McCannMrs. Judith Lynn SchoenMr. & Mrs. Thomas Widmeier

In memory of George MachinchickDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of Sandra MalazendaDr. & Mrs. John Della Croce ’73

In memory of Joseph MattaviDr. & Mrs. John Della Croce ’73

In memory of Harry W. McClellanEstate of Lucy Norris

In honor of George Medash’s retirementNorm & Ann Marie Ceriani & Family

In memory of Ray Mensinger ’47Dr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of Patricia MolinaroDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of John J. Ratchko Sr.Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clarke & Family

In memory of Ruth RefowichMr. Nicholas NemeshMr. & Mrs. Joseph G. Rudawski

In honor of Dr. William A. Shergalis’ retirementAgnes M. O’Donnell

In memory of Ruth SingleyDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of Magdeline TichyDr. & Mrs. John Della Croce ’73

In memory of Carrie UchnoMr. Nicholas Nemesh

Published quarterly, MMI Today is the official newsletter of

Milestones

Events in the lives of the MMI Prep family

DeathsBernard Cudwadie ’65 died August 4. He is survived by his parents, Bernard and Margaret, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Atty. Morton Gordon ’52 died August 7. Surviving are his wife, Marilyn; a son, Scott ’77, and his wife, Christina; a daughter, Lisa ’78, and her husband, Gerard ’77; a sister, Esther, and one grandson.

Hugh Campbell III ’52 died October 7. He is survived by daughters, Maureen, Kathleen and Colleen; sons, Hugh and Sean; a sister, Rosemary; brothers, John and Terry, and several grandchildren.

John Herkalo ’38 died September 17. He is survived by sons, James and John; a daughter, Mary Pat; sisters, Dorothy and Anna, and several grandchildren.

Alvan Lynn ’55 died August 28. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughters, Cynthia, Corrine and Kristen; a son, Allan, and several grandchildren.

Ray Mensinger ’47 died September 17. He is survived by a son, Michael; a sister, Beverly; a brother, Wayne, and several grandchildren.

* Note: Due to space limitations, all death notices could not be included in this issue. These notices will be included in the Spring issue.

Greetings from MMI,

We continue to have a successful year at your school. The students are excelling, not only academically, but in athletics, activities, character and service. This newsletter will highlight not only their successes, but those of some of our alumni and friends. The economy is on everyone’s mind here in Freeland, just as it is, I’m sure, with you. In the coming months we will be calling many of you asking you to contribute to our Annual Fund. In these difficult economic times, your support is more critical than ever. I ask you to pledge what you can so we can continue to provide a great education to all deserving area students.

I want to spend the next couple newsletters outlining our vision for MMI and its future. This does not represent a major shift with what we have done in the past, but since we will be asking for your support, I think it is important that we share a common vision for the school. What you will see is the mission of the school has not changed in the 129 years since Eckley and Sophia Coxe established MMI. We will continue to adapt to remain relevant for our future and the future of our students.

“To provide dedicated area students with a comprehensive and inspiring 6th-12th grade college preparatory program that maximizes each individual’s academic, social and character potential in preparation for success in college and beyond.”

These are the words of the current MMI mission statement. The Board of Directors modified this statement back in the spring and I think they did a great job of capturing the essence of the school. You will see, if you compare it with our previous mission statement, that we are still creating a college preparatory environment where our students can excel: at MMI, at college and throughout their lives. This excellence involves maximizing each student’s potential in three key areas of their life: intellectual, social and character. In upcoming newsletters, you will hear me talk about our five pillars of excellence; academic, athletics, activities, character and service. Students must push themselves in each of these areas to maximize their individual potential in these areas. That does not mean every MMI student will get straight A’s, only that they will all perform to the best of their ability in everything they do.

We have also added inspiration to our new mission statement. Inspiring our students requires that we provide a broad educational base while exposing our students to opportunities and professions they may encounter after they leave MMI. In short, we want them to recognize what they enjoy and are good at doing. We can do this by offering electives as well as out of classroom educational opportunities to our comprehensive curriculum. We want to foster an environment at MMI that models and encourages lifelong learning by our students.

Sharing our interpretation of the MMI mission statement is meant to be the beginning of a dialogue with all those who love MMI. I welcome your input on these thoughts. Please feel free to call, email or write me with any ideas you have. I will also be traveling in the coming months talking individually to some of you on how we can continue to change the lives of students from our area of Northeast PA. MMI is OUR school and needs all of our involvement to ensure its future is as bright as its past.

May you have a joyous and peace-filled 2009.

Sincerely yours,

Thomas G. Hood

President

10 3

Students inducted into Science National Honor Society

Stella Boosalis joins MMI as school librarian

MMI students make Much Ado About Nothing

What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globeAlumni Notes

MMI students recently inducted into the Science National Honor Society are, seated, from left: Kelci Scirrotto, Katrina Enright, Sarah Careyva, Taylor Olian, Brone Lobichusky, Megan Veglia, Magdalena Rychlik and Katie Laputka. Second row: adviser Anthony Gennaro, Niklas Anthony, Leo Moroz, Alaina Titus, Alyson Klush, Diana Anthony, Kristyn Lizbinski, Emily Gosselin, Nathalie Kocon, Robert Yamulla and Ross Bluth. Third row: adviser Laura Nemetz, Daniel Migatulski, John Walton, Mirza Ali, Robert Dougherty, James Facciolla, Justin Dasher, Mitch Sauers, Joseph Caputo, Lewis Bevans and Jordan Gorski. Fourth row: Tyler Breznitsky, Kyle Duffy, Paul Blanner, Jan Wessel, Adam Wisniewski, MMI President Emeritus Dr. William A. Shergalis, MMI President Tom Hood and Dr. Gregg Bluth, adviser.

Sigrid Berg ’90 married Attorney Robert Burns on October 7, 2006, and welcomed a daughter, Julia Elizabeth, on September 9, 2007. They recently moved to Bangor, Maine, where Sigrid has taken a position as a hematologist/oncologist at Eastern Maine Center.

Corporal William J. Feissner ’88 of the Butler Township Police and the Office of Attorney General Drug Task Force was

presented with the 2008 Pennsylvania Narcotic Officer’s Association Outstanding Police Performance Award. The award was presented for his undercover investigation into a large-scale cocaine distribution ring operating between New York City and southern Luzerne County.

Rachel Lee Gennaro ’02 is completing her final year at Thomas Jefferson

University, Philadelphia, and will receive a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in May. Rachel is engaged to Chad Bryan Smith, a mechanical engineer for Chalmers and Kubeck, Inc.

Ryan Oberst ’03 recently began substitute teaching at MMI.

They say a man’s home is his castle, and one MMI graduate discovered just how true that statement could be while studying in India.

During her trip abroad, Maria Dei Tos ’05 lived in a palace.

She spent six weeks in India as part of a study-abroad program, taking anthropology courses. Dei Tos, a senior biological anthropology major at Temple University, took the trip with 17 fellow Temple students and two students from other universities.

The group stayed with their professor, Dr. Jhala, whom the group called “Bapa” (a term for “father”).

“Dr. Jhala’s father was a king in the days when India had royalty, so my professor was technically a prince. He had told us we would be staying in a palace, but we really couldn’t fathom what it would be like,” Dei Tos said.

“It was amazing and absolutely huge, with 20 bedrooms or so. And when we arrived and went up to the palace, all the windows were open and monkeys were everywhere,” she said. “The kitchen staff even cooked all our meals for us.”

This was the fifth year Dr. Jhala hosted the students for the trip. His palace was in the village of Dhrangadhra, about 300 miles northwest of Mumbai. Dei Tos said 100,000 people live in Dhrangadhra – a city that is considered small by Indian standards.

The group also traveled to three Indian provinces learning more about the country, as well as Indian culture and families. Dei Tos was able to study her particular area of interest, medicine in Indian society.

“Before the trip, I learned more about India’s extensive use of a system of medicine known as Ayurveda and wanted to compare biomedicine and traditional medicine when I was there,” she said.

The students had connections through Dr. Jhala to many different places and people, including two doctors, one of

whom was also a yoga instructor.

“It was a really busy trip. Our professor took us on several field trips, including to an archaeological site,” Dei Tos said. In their spare time, members of the group worked on a Hindu religious play about one of Krishna’s parables that they later performed in front of the village.

“The female students dressed in saris and the males in proper Indian wear for the play,” she said.

She noted that the students also had some time to relax and interact with each other, especially during the hottest part of the day.

“It was about 110 degrees some days, so from about 1 to 4 p.m., people would just relax or sleep,” she said.

Dei Tos said her favorite part of the trip was a field trip to the desert before the rains of the monsoon season came.

“Dr. Jhala took us into the desert and we had a lecture there. He had planned it

so we went on the night of a full moon and we even slept in the desert. We also visited some salt mines in and around the desert on our way back,” she said. “I don’t think I would ever be able to experience something like that again.”

The trip has been in Dei Tos’ mind as she decides what to do in the future. She would like to work for an organization such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and her dream is to earn a Doctor of Medicine degree one day. She is particularly interested in the Doctors Without Borders Program and returning overseas.

“MMI taught me to aim high, keep myself busy and set goals. I think it’s very important to always keep trying and prepare yourself for what you’ll be doing next,” she said.

“I’m also learning the importance of MMI connections. The reunions are great, especially knowing it’s so easy to get in touch with fellow graduates for advice or potential job opportunities.”

Alum lives in palace while studying abroad in IndiaMMI Librarian Stella Boosalis

Maria Dei Tos in Mt. Abu, which is in Rajasthan state.

Stella Boosalis has joined the MMI faculty as the school’s full-time librarian. She was a part-time librarian at MMI during the 2007-2008 academic year. Boosalis holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Russian and Soviet Studies from the University of Portsmouth, U.K.

Boosalis previously worked in the education field in various roles, conducting educational tours in Europe and in the former Soviet Union, and as a teacher, librarian and administrator.

“The library is the backbone and the heart of any educational institution and community,” said Boosalis. “As MMI’s librarian, I am in a privileged position to share in the students’

learning on a school-wide basis.”

Enhancements Boosalis has implemented for the MMI Library include access to the interlibrary loan program, Access Pennsylvania and the Ask Here PA , which connects students with an online librarian to help assist with research questions. Each program logo is placed on the library page on the MMI web site.

This year, the MMI Library started a new tradition in celebration of International Month with displays of various countries and their cultures, all submitted by MMI faculty, staff, students and their families, featured throughout November.

The 6th through 12th grade students at MMI Preparatory were treated to a day-long interaction with DeSales University’s WillPower Tour which included a performance of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.

Prior to the show, twelfth grade students were introduced to the various aspects of Shakespeare’s work in several one-hour workshops. Seniors used the language of Shakespeare, tried their hands at the physically challenging aspects of being on stage, affected accents, managed their body language, and interacted with each other as if they were characters in Shakespeare’s plays.

These workshops not only prepared students for watching the afternoon performance of Much Ado About Nothing but also gave them the chance to understand Shakespeare and

drama in general from the perspective of the actor.

Following the performance, all students and teachers had the opportunity to engage with the actors in a Talk Back. Students asked questions about the technical aspects of putting on a play, about the play itself, and about the actors. The Talk Back added a component to the play that enhanced students’ understanding of it.

“The experience – from the senior workshops to the performance to the Talk Back – proved memorable for the students at MMI. The students saw Shakespeare and his work in another light, and it may well have created a passion for his work that may not have existed otherwise. This day-long experience shows the beauty of an MMI education,” said event organizer MMI Vice President Jaclyn Fowler.

4 9

MMI is especially close to the heart of the school’s newest chair of the board of directors, as she’s an alumna herself.

Noted local businesswoman Andrea Kosko ’74 took over the reins as board chair in September 2008 and is serving her second term on the board.

“All the board members combined have a great deal of wisdom, and it’s my goal to honor that wisdom as the school moves forward. We’re all excited to see what the future will bring for MMI,” she said.

Kosko said that although MMI has seen many changes since she was a student, being a graduate of the school has already proven beneficial to her as board chair, as she’s very familiar with the school’s mission.

After finishing her high school career at MMI, she graduated magna cum laude from Marywood College in Scranton with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Management. Kosko continued on to business success, now serving as a partner and chief financial officer at Fellin’s Jewelers, her family’s business. She holds memberships with the American Gem Society, Jewelers of America and the Pennsylvania Retail Jewelers Association.

Fellin’s, a fixture in downtown Hazleton, was founded by her maternal grandparents, John and Mary Fellin, in 1922, and she joined the business full time in 1986. Kosko’s sister, Mary Celeste Kosko, and their mother, Celeste Fellin Kosko, are also involved in the business.

“When you’re in a family business, as soon as you can walk and talk, you’re helping out. My sister and I grew up in the business and both of us are now partners there,” she said.

Kosko takes care of the financial matters at Fellin’s, including accounting and inventory as well as advertising. The different aspects of her job appeal to separate parts of her personality in what she thinks of as a “left brain-right brain” dichotomy.

“I really enjoy handling the finances as well as the creative part of the business. Also, one of my favorite parts of this position is trying to refine our technology and efforts to become more of a presence on the Internet,” she said.

Kosko credits MMI with helping her develop the tools to succeed in her career, saying, “My MMI education is the foundation on which I have built throughout my life. At MMI, I learned the importance of persevering in order to achieve success.”

Of all her MMI memories, one of her favorites is the 1973 championship basketball season. “As a student, that was so exciting,” she recalled. “It might as well have been the world championship of basketball!”

As a freshman, Kosko was part of the first group of girls to be accepted at MMI and remembers many interesting stories from those days, especially of the female students who had to share the secretary’s private, one-person bathroom until the girls’ restroom was completed.

“Having female students at MMI was probably even more of an interesting experience for the boys, since they had to get used to us girls being there. When we were freshmen, the sophomores, juniors and seniors were all male and had always been surrounded by male students,” she said. “But it was a lot of fun and we were very nicely welcomed by all the boys.”

“Throughout my four years at MMI, I was challenged not only by the faculty, but also by my peers, to constantly do better and to excel. I truly believe I finished at a much higher level than had I not been at MMI,” she said.

Kosko, a Sugarloaf resident, said since MMI alumni have so much to offer, it’s important for them to consider

staying or returning to northeastern Pennsylvania.

“It’s good to be exposed to the rest of the world, but it’s so important to come back and

make a contribution. Your energy and ideas are as important a contribution as money,”

she said.

Kosko presented a similar message when she spoke during MMI’s 2005 commencement ceremonies, saying, “There has been a serious out-migration of well-educated young people just like you. And the fact of the matter is, your hometowns need you right here. They

need your intellect, your energy and your creativity. They need you to serve

on volunteer boards, to participate in the political process, to raise funds for the many

worthy charities and to raise morale.”

That advice comes from someone who is, herself, dedicated to improving the Greater Hazleton community. In addition to her involvement with MMI, she also serves on the

board of directors of the Hazleton Area Public Library and the Hazleton chapter of the American Red Cross. She previously served on the boards of Meals on Wheels of Greater Hazleton, the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance (NEPA) and the Alliance to Rebuild Center-City Hazleton (ARCH), as well as the Business Advisory Committee at Penn State Hazleton. Kosko also served a term as secretary of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce.

“The Hazleton area is, in a sense, our incubator. We grew up and got our values here, learning from our parents and our families the things we take with us all throughout life,” she said. “And now, it’s essential to consider our roots. As individuals, we have our own goals, but we need to help our local communities achieve the goals they have as well.”

Alumna gives back to MMI, community Businesswoman encourages graduates to return to area

PPL was one of several businesses that contributed to MMI Preparatory School this year through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program to go toward need-based scholarships at the school.

PPL contributed $40,000 to MMI through the EITC Program. EITC contributions to MMI by area businesses totaled more than $260,000 this year.

“MMI students have benefited greatly from the generosity of companies such as PPL. Our school is extremely grateful to PPL and the many businesses that have contributed to the EITC program for their continued support,” said MMI President Thomas Hood. “These gifts are a tremendous help to MMI families.”

More than 60 percent of students who attend MMI Preparatory School receive some type of financial aid toward tuition. “Helping these families is a very worthwhile cause and PPL is pleased to be able to contribute toward making an MMI education possible for some of these students. It’s fortunate that the state offers tax credit incentives that enable companies such as PPL to contribute to educational programs in the community,” said PPL Customer Programs Director Florie McNelis.

Businesses that donate to MMI are eligible to receive tax credits amounting to 75% of their charitable contribution for a one-year contribution or 90% if they make a two-year commitment to contribute. Donations of any amount are eligible for the tax credit. The maximum amount of tax credits that can be received in a given year is $300,000.

All C Corporations, S Corporations and Partnerships can participate in the program. For more information, call Jim Bebla, MMI’s director of development and alumni relations, at 570-636-1108 or e-mail jbebla@mmiprep.org.

Businesses donate more than $260,000 through EITC Program

Alumni gather at new Hazleton hot spot for a mini-reunion MMI alumni representing classes from the past 35 years gathered under restored antique plastered ceilings for hors d’oeuvres,

cocktails and conversation at the new downtown Hazleton restaurant, Mea’s. Alumni caught up with fellow classmates, made new friends and reconnected with former MMI faculty members and administrators.

“I enjoy seeing photos from other regional mini-reunions and always hoped we could have something like that locally. It was great to reconnect with alumni who live right here in Northeastern PA. I even found out that one of my fellow classmates lives only a quarter of a mile away from me,” said Grete H. DeAngelo, a member of the Class of 1992 and current faculty member in MMI’s History Department.

“It was a great event,” said attendee Stacy Moore Swearengen ’00. “I planned to meet up with some friends I hadn’t seen in a few years. I think whether you’re new to an area or have lived somewhere forever, you can never overlook the fact that you have connections available to you. I was able to reaffirm existing relationships and create new ones.”

Florie McNelis, center, of PPL Corp., presents a $40,000 EITC contribution from PPL to Thomas Hood, left, president of MMI. At right is Jim Bebla, MMI’s director of development and alumni relations.

Alumni attending the social at Mea’s in Hazleton are from left, Chris Kimmel ’08, Maxine and Richard Baran ’87, Karl Wallen ’87 and Robynn Smith.

from everyone at MMI have strengthened my vision and goals for the school, its students and their families. I look forward to my years ahead as president with great excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead,” he said.

MMI Board Chair Andrea Kosko ’74 welcomed Hood, saying, “It is my honor to officially welcome you as the pilot of MMI. We know with you at the controls, the sky’s the limit!”

Hood (continued from page 1)

MMI faculty member Grete DeAngelo ’92, Kathleen Haentjens and MMI Director of Guidance John Scibilia.

Andrea Kosko ’74Tim and Carol Twardzik, Dr. Joe and Suzanne Lobichusky, Jake Kislan ’56 and MMI Board Chair Andrea Kosko ’74.

8 5

Debate teams place in Wilkes Forensics Invitational

Check out this year’s winter sports schedule

Boys' Varsity Basketball

Date Place Opponent Time

1/10 Away Northwest Area 7:30 p.m.1/13 Home St. Michael’s 7:30 p.m.1/16 Away Hanover Area 7:30 p.m.1/17 Away Panther Valley 2:30 p.m.1/19 Home Weatherly Area 7:30 p.m.1/22 Home Meyers 7:30 p.m.1/24 Away St. Michael’s 7:30 p.m.1/27 Away Nanticoke 7:30 p.m.1/28 Home Moravian 6:30 p.m.1/30 Away Wyoming Sem. 7:30 p.m.2/3 Home Northwest Area 7:30 p.m.2/6 Home G.A.R. 7:30 p.m.2/10 Away West Side 7:30 p.m.

Boys' Mid School Basketball

Date Place Opponent Time

1/12 Away Valley 6:00 p.m.1/15 Away Drums 6:00 p.m.1/20 Home Hazleton 6:00 p.m.1/22 Away Freeland 6:00 p.m.1/24 Away Weatherly 11:00 a.m.1/26 Away Heights-Terrace 6:00 p.m.1/29 Away West Hazleton 6:00 p.m.2/2 Away Valley 6:00 p.m.2/5 Home Freeland 6:00 p.m.2/9 Away Holy Family 6:00 p.m.2/12 Home Drums 6:00 p.m

Girls' Varsity Basketball

Date Place Opponent Time

1/15 Home Hanover Area 6:30 p.m.1/20 Away Meyers 7:00 p.m.1/24 Away Jim Thorpe 1:00 p.m.1/26 Home Nanticoke 6:30 p.m.1/29 Home Wyoming Sem. 6:30 p.m.2/2 Away Northwest Area 7:00 p.m.2/5 Away G.A.R. 7:00 p.m.2/7 Away Moravian 12:00 noon2/9 Home West Side 6:30 p.m.

MMI students participate in ‘Volunteer Day’

For more information about MMI athletic schedules, visit: http://highschoolsports.net

Nearly 250 students at MMI put away their books one Friday afternoon in October and gave their time and effort to participate in their second annual Volunteer Day cleanup and restoration projects throughout surrounding communities.

MMI’s Volunteer Day was held in conjunction with National Make A Difference Day, which was Saturday, October 25. The school coordinated its program efforts through the Volunteer Center of Greater Hazleton.

“Our student council came up with the idea last year, and once again we are more than happy to work with the Volunteer Center to make this happen,” said MMI President Tom Hood. “We realize that education is not just about books and classrooms. It’s also about experiences and community involvement. Activities such as this volunteer project are just one example of how our students and their families get involved and understand the importance of their responsibility to the environment and giving back to their community.”

MMI students participated in six volunteer projects throughout Freeland, Hazleton and Hazle Township.

MMI sixth and seventh grade students helped clean up the Freeland Public Park, located at the corner of Sabol and Front streets, several blocks from MMI. Students removed brush and debris from throughout the park.

Eckley Miners’ Village benefited from a general cleaning and raking of leaves and debris from the MMI eighth grade class and MMI Vice President Dr. Jaclyn Fowler.

“I am so honored to join the students in this tremendous community project. It’s amazing how in just one afternoon of volunteer work, the students realize the importance of volunteering and taking responsibility,” Fowler said.

At the Hazleton YM/YWCA, the ninth grade class assisted in YMCA trick-or-treat preparations by decorating and making props for the Trick-or-Treat Trail.

MMI 10th grade students worked with members of the Tri-Area Recreation Authority in brush clearing and leaf-raking efforts at the Jeanesville entrance.

More than 30 students in 11th grade helped area Rails to Trails efforts by cutting back brush from the trails near the Stockton Mountain Road, as well as digging and cementing postholes for a sign on the trail.

At the YMCA in Freeland, MMI seniors assisted in organizing a storage area and general cleanup.

Two teams of students from the MMI Debate Club placed first and fourth in the annual Wilkes University Invitational Forensics Competition held recently at Wilkes University.

The tournament hosted students from more than 25 high schools in the region to compete in six speech categories and three debate events, testing their skills and talents in public speaking, dramatization, literary interpretation and argumentation and debate.

Placing first for their dramatic duo were eighth grade students Farrah Qadri and Marianne Virnelson. Qadri and Virnelson were awarded first place in the category of Duo Interpretation of Literature for their portrayal of “Loon Woman” by Margaret Hunt, a story of a woman’s struggle to become an artist.

Placing in the category of Duo Interpretation of Literature were freshmen Caroline Bandurska and Antonia Diener. Bandurska and Diener were awarded fourth place for their portrayal of Night, Mother by Marsha Norman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning play about a mother and daughter in crisis.

Other members of the debate team taking part in the competition were Ryan Twardzik, Katlyn Frey and Michelle Reck, who competed in Extemporaneous Speaking and Public Forum.

MMI Debate Team Adviser and English Teacher Matthew Kenenitz said he was proud of the team and their performance at their first competition this school year. “The students did a great job preparing for the competition. They were able to experience debating at a collegiate level and have the opportunity to work with the Wilkes University students as well. With what we have learned here, we are looking forward to our upcoming competitions.”

Sixth grade student earns ballet honor

Sixth grade student Alessandra Ortiz auditioned and was accepted into the Degnan Ballet Center in Kingston recently. She was offered a position with the Company II members, an honor typically given to students 13 and older.

As a member of the company, she was also selected to perform in the recent holiday production of “The Nutcracker” and in the spring production of “Swan Lake.” Congratulations!

MMI debate team students earning awards at the recent Wilkes University Forensics Invitational are, from left: Antonia Diener, Marianne Virnelson and Farrah Qadri and MMI English Teacher and Forensics Adviser Matthew Kenenitz. Caroline Bandurska also earned an award.

MMI mid school students participate in Volunteer Day activities at Eckley Miners’ Village in Freeland.

Dean’s ListKelly Barron ’04 Susquehanna UniversityNoelle Lynn Brandmier ’06 Rochester Institute of Technology Sonya Kalim ’07 King’s CollegeIan Kollar ’06 King’s CollegeLaura Satterfield ’06 King’s CollegeKrystina Sissick ’07 Chestnut Hill CollegeDaniel Vaskalis ’07 King’s College

MMI senior receives award from Polonaise Society

Jake Kislan, MMI Class of ’56 and board member of the Greater Hazleton Polonaise Society, presents MMI senior Eric Twardzik with a monetary award, a pen and a certificate for his essay on the subject “The First Polish Settlers in Jamestown, Virginia in the year 1608.” The award was presented to Eric at the Greater Hazleton Polonaise Society Annual Ball.

6 7

The MMI Alumni and Parents Phonathon 2009 will be held February 16 through March 12. The Phonathon is held Monday through Thursdays during the campaign from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Coxe Home.

A record number of alumni, parent, faculty and staff volunteers assisted with the 2008 campaign, contacting more than 700 donors during the four-week Phonathon. MMI is currently recruiting

volunteers for Phonathon 2009. Anyone interested in volunteering to call fellow MMI alumni or parents is encouraged to contact the Alumni Relations Office at 570-636-1108.

The Phonathon at MMI Preparatory School is an important part of the MMI Annual Fund Campaign. As we enter the new year in one of the most trying economic times, the support of our volunteers and donors is critical.

During the annual Phonathon, volunteers have an opportunity to talk with donors about MMI, personally thank them for their past support and ask for a contribution in the current year. The tremendous support of alumni, parents and friends who volunteer contributes to the continued success of the Phonathon each year.

Phonathon volunteers needed for 2009 campaign

Upcoming Events See what’s coming up at MMI

MMI alumni, retired faculty, and staff, past parents, friends and guests are welcome to attend the upcoming reunions.

The Washington, D.C. mini-reunion will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2009, at a location to be determined.

The Philadelphia area mini-reunion will be held Monday, March 30, 2009, at a location to be determined.

The New York City mini-reunion will be held in the late

spring or early summer.

The Connecticut area mini-reunion will be hosted by Dr. Jim ’53 and Anne Fischer in late spring or early summer.

For more information and updates about regional reunions, please continue to check www.mmiprep.org. If anyone would like to help out with the reunions, please contact Jim Bebla, director of development and alumni relations, at 570-636-1108 or jbebla@mmiprep.org.

MMI Homecoming Weekend August 7 - 8

Upcoming Mini-Reunions

Mark your calendars to join your MMI friends for Homecoming Weekend 2009. All MMI alumni are invited to return to their alma mater for MMI’s Homecoming Weekend on Friday, August 7, and Saturday, August 8, 2009. Homecoming features the MMI Athletic Association Golf Tournament on Friday, the traditional Homecoming Picnic on Saturday afternoon and the Wall of Fame Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Saturday evening.

Homecoming 2009 honors the following Reunion Classes: 1929, 1934, 1939, 1944, 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999 and 2004.

The MMI Alumni Office encourages this year’s reunion classes to make a special effort to join us and celebrate your reunion. If you would like to contact your fellow classmates, the Alumni Office would be happy to provide you with a class list and help coordinate your reunion. Reunion classes can gather at the Homecoming Picnic or arrange a separate reunion dinner or reception on Friday, August 7.

Athletic Assoc. Golf TournamentThe 15th Annual MMI Athletic Association Golf

Tournament will be held Friday, August 7. The tournament is the primary fundraising event in support of MMI student athletes.

Alumni and friends of MMI can participate by golfing in the tournament, sponsoring a hole, donating a gift for a golf or raffle prize or by making a contribution to the Athletic Association. Corporate sponsorships are also available. For more information on the tournament, please contact Jim Bebla, director of development and alumni relations at MMI.

The MMI Wall of Fame Selection Committee is currently accepting nominations for inductees to the 2009 Wall of Fame. Anyone can submit nominations.

The MMI Wall of Fame honors and recognizes alumni and current and past faculty, staff and board members of MMI who have distinguished themselves in the areas of athletics, business, sciences, education, government, public service, the arts or the humanities.

Deadline for Wall of Fame nominations is February 28, 2009. MMI Wall of Fame recipients are announced in June and inducted in August at a ceremony to be held

at the annual Homecoming festivities.

Inductees are selected to the Wall of Fame in the following categories: athletic achievement, professional achievement, service to MMI and service to the community (specific criteria are listed on the nomination form). Nominations are accepted posthumously. MMI teams may also be nominated in the Athletic Achievement category.

For more information or a nomination form, contact the Alumni Relations Office at 570-636-1108 or visit the Alumni page on our web site, www.mmiprep.org.

Alumni Office accepting Wall of Fame nominations

Visitation Day and the first Entrance Exam of the New Year are scheduled for January. The first Visitation Day will be held on Tuesday, January 20, from 6 to 8 p.m, and the first Entrance Exam is scheduled for Saturday, January 24, from 9 a.m. to noon.

The Visitation Day program is a perfect opportunity for new families to visit the campus and talk to current students, teachers and administrators to learn more about MMI.

“We have scheduled the Visitation Day prior to our

Entrance Exam to give families the opportunity to learn more about MMI prior to registering for the test,” said MMI Director of Admissions and Financial Aid Kim McNulty.

The Entrance Exam on January 24 follows Visitation Day. “You can call MMI at any time to schedule a personalized campus tour on a date and time that are convenient for you,” added McNulty.

There's no better way to understand MMI than to plan a visit. Please contact Kim McNulty at 570-636-1108, or visit www.mmiprep.org for more information.

Entrance Exam, Visitation Days scheduled

Spring events at MMIMMI Drama Club production March 20, 21

The MMI Drama Club will present the musical production “The Wizard of Oz” on Friday, March 20, and Saturday, March 21, at 7 p.m. in the MMI Athletic and Drama Complex. The show is open to the public. The production is under the direction of Drama Club Advisor Joanne Oakum, Musical Director Christine Lizbinski and Art Director Lisa Ferry.

Open House set for Sunday, March 29Mark your calendar – Open House is early this year! The annual

MMI Open House will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2009, from 2:30 to 5 p.m.

The MMI Annual Open House showcases independent research projects prepared by students as part of their curriculum. Students from grades 6 to 12 will be available to demonstrate and explain their projects. Projects compete to win in the categories of science, humanities and art, and cooking.

Spring Festival to be held Saturday, April 25Saturday, April 25, is the date for the annual MMI Spring Festival.

The annual event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the MMI Parent Faculty Organization with the proceeds donated to the school. There is something for everyone: homemade food, fun and games, craft tables, tricky trays, a bingo and raffle. See you there!

Wister Quartet returning to MMI May 4The Wister Quartet, one of the finest musical quartets in the

nation, will return to MMI to perform on Monday, May 4, at 7 p.m. The Philadelphia Inquirer music critics have described the Wister Quartet as one of the foremost chamber music ensembles.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the school at 570-636-1108.

Ms. Jeanette Butala DiBella ’75, giving her acceptance speech at the 2008 Wall of Fame Ceremony.

MMI student Sarah Careyva with her 2008 Open House project.

The Wister Quartet with the MMI String Ensemble at the 2008 concert.

6 7

The MMI Alumni and Parents Phonathon 2009 will be held February 16 through March 12. The Phonathon is held Monday through Thursdays during the campaign from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Coxe Home.

A record number of alumni, parent, faculty and staff volunteers assisted with the 2008 campaign, contacting more than 700 donors during the four-week Phonathon. MMI is currently recruiting

volunteers for Phonathon 2009. Anyone interested in volunteering to call fellow MMI alumni or parents is encouraged to contact the Alumni Relations Office at 570-636-1108.

The Phonathon at MMI Preparatory School is an important part of the MMI Annual Fund Campaign. As we enter the new year in one of the most trying economic times, the support of our volunteers and donors is critical.

During the annual Phonathon, volunteers have an opportunity to talk with donors about MMI, personally thank them for their past support and ask for a contribution in the current year. The tremendous support of alumni, parents and friends who volunteer contributes to the continued success of the Phonathon each year.

Phonathon volunteers needed for 2009 campaign

Upcoming Events See what’s coming up at MMI

MMI alumni, retired faculty, and staff, past parents, friends and guests are welcome to attend the upcoming reunions.

The Washington, D.C. mini-reunion will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2009, at a location to be determined.

The Philadelphia area mini-reunion will be held Monday, March 30, 2009, at a location to be determined.

The New York City mini-reunion will be held in the late

spring or early summer.

The Connecticut area mini-reunion will be hosted by Dr. Jim ’53 and Anne Fischer in late spring or early summer.

For more information and updates about regional reunions, please continue to check www.mmiprep.org. If anyone would like to help out with the reunions, please contact Jim Bebla, director of development and alumni relations, at 570-636-1108 or jbebla@mmiprep.org.

MMI Homecoming Weekend August 7 - 8

Upcoming Mini-Reunions

Mark your calendars to join your MMI friends for Homecoming Weekend 2009. All MMI alumni are invited to return to their alma mater for MMI’s Homecoming Weekend on Friday, August 7, and Saturday, August 8, 2009. Homecoming features the MMI Athletic Association Golf Tournament on Friday, the traditional Homecoming Picnic on Saturday afternoon and the Wall of Fame Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Saturday evening.

Homecoming 2009 honors the following Reunion Classes: 1929, 1934, 1939, 1944, 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999 and 2004.

The MMI Alumni Office encourages this year’s reunion classes to make a special effort to join us and celebrate your reunion. If you would like to contact your fellow classmates, the Alumni Office would be happy to provide you with a class list and help coordinate your reunion. Reunion classes can gather at the Homecoming Picnic or arrange a separate reunion dinner or reception on Friday, August 7.

Athletic Assoc. Golf TournamentThe 15th Annual MMI Athletic Association Golf

Tournament will be held Friday, August 7. The tournament is the primary fundraising event in support of MMI student athletes.

Alumni and friends of MMI can participate by golfing in the tournament, sponsoring a hole, donating a gift for a golf or raffle prize or by making a contribution to the Athletic Association. Corporate sponsorships are also available. For more information on the tournament, please contact Jim Bebla, director of development and alumni relations at MMI.

The MMI Wall of Fame Selection Committee is currently accepting nominations for inductees to the 2009 Wall of Fame. Anyone can submit nominations.

The MMI Wall of Fame honors and recognizes alumni and current and past faculty, staff and board members of MMI who have distinguished themselves in the areas of athletics, business, sciences, education, government, public service, the arts or the humanities.

Deadline for Wall of Fame nominations is February 28, 2009. MMI Wall of Fame recipients are announced in June and inducted in August at a ceremony to be held

at the annual Homecoming festivities.

Inductees are selected to the Wall of Fame in the following categories: athletic achievement, professional achievement, service to MMI and service to the community (specific criteria are listed on the nomination form). Nominations are accepted posthumously. MMI teams may also be nominated in the Athletic Achievement category.

For more information or a nomination form, contact the Alumni Relations Office at 570-636-1108 or visit the Alumni page on our web site, www.mmiprep.org.

Alumni Office accepting Wall of Fame nominations

Visitation Day and the first Entrance Exam of the New Year are scheduled for January. The first Visitation Day will be held on Tuesday, January 20, from 6 to 8 p.m, and the first Entrance Exam is scheduled for Saturday, January 24, from 9 a.m. to noon.

The Visitation Day program is a perfect opportunity for new families to visit the campus and talk to current students, teachers and administrators to learn more about MMI.

“We have scheduled the Visitation Day prior to our

Entrance Exam to give families the opportunity to learn more about MMI prior to registering for the test,” said MMI Director of Admissions and Financial Aid Kim McNulty.

The Entrance Exam on January 24 follows Visitation Day. “You can call MMI at any time to schedule a personalized campus tour on a date and time that are convenient for you,” added McNulty.

There's no better way to understand MMI than to plan a visit. Please contact Kim McNulty at 570-636-1108, or visit www.mmiprep.org for more information.

Entrance Exam, Visitation Days scheduled

Spring events at MMIMMI Drama Club production March 20, 21

The MMI Drama Club will present the musical production “The Wizard of Oz” on Friday, March 20, and Saturday, March 21, at 7 p.m. in the MMI Athletic and Drama Complex. The show is open to the public. The production is under the direction of Drama Club Advisor Joanne Oakum, Musical Director Christine Lizbinski and Art Director Lisa Ferry.

Open House set for Sunday, March 29Mark your calendar – Open House is early this year! The annual

MMI Open House will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2009, from 2:30 to 5 p.m.

The MMI Annual Open House showcases independent research projects prepared by students as part of their curriculum. Students from grades 6 to 12 will be available to demonstrate and explain their projects. Projects compete to win in the categories of science, humanities and art, and cooking.

Spring Festival to be held Saturday, April 25Saturday, April 25, is the date for the annual MMI Spring Festival.

The annual event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the MMI Parent Faculty Organization with the proceeds donated to the school. There is something for everyone: homemade food, fun and games, craft tables, tricky trays, a bingo and raffle. See you there!

Wister Quartet returning to MMI May 4The Wister Quartet, one of the finest musical quartets in the

nation, will return to MMI to perform on Monday, May 4, at 7 p.m. The Philadelphia Inquirer music critics have described the Wister Quartet as one of the foremost chamber music ensembles.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the school at 570-636-1108.

Ms. Jeanette Butala DiBella ’75, giving her acceptance speech at the 2008 Wall of Fame Ceremony.

MMI student Sarah Careyva with her 2008 Open House project.

The Wister Quartet with the MMI String Ensemble at the 2008 concert.

8 5

Debate teams place in Wilkes Forensics Invitational

Check out this year’s winter sports schedule

Boys' Varsity Basketball

Date Place Opponent Time

1/10 Away Northwest Area 7:30 p.m.1/13 Home St. Michael’s 7:30 p.m.1/16 Away Hanover Area 7:30 p.m.1/17 Away Panther Valley 2:30 p.m.1/19 Home Weatherly Area 7:30 p.m.1/22 Home Meyers 7:30 p.m.1/24 Away St. Michael’s 7:30 p.m.1/27 Away Nanticoke 7:30 p.m.1/28 Home Moravian 6:30 p.m.1/30 Away Wyoming Sem. 7:30 p.m.2/3 Home Northwest Area 7:30 p.m.2/6 Home G.A.R. 7:30 p.m.2/10 Away West Side 7:30 p.m.

Boys' Mid School Basketball

Date Place Opponent Time

1/12 Away Valley 6:00 p.m.1/15 Away Drums 6:00 p.m.1/20 Home Hazleton 6:00 p.m.1/22 Away Freeland 6:00 p.m.1/24 Away Weatherly 11:00 a.m.1/26 Away Heights-Terrace 6:00 p.m.1/29 Away West Hazleton 6:00 p.m.2/2 Away Valley 6:00 p.m.2/5 Home Freeland 6:00 p.m.2/9 Away Holy Family 6:00 p.m.2/12 Home Drums 6:00 p.m

Girls' Varsity Basketball

Date Place Opponent Time

1/15 Home Hanover Area 6:30 p.m.1/20 Away Meyers 7:00 p.m.1/24 Away Jim Thorpe 1:00 p.m.1/26 Home Nanticoke 6:30 p.m.1/29 Home Wyoming Sem. 6:30 p.m.2/2 Away Northwest Area 7:00 p.m.2/5 Away G.A.R. 7:00 p.m.2/7 Away Moravian 12:00 noon2/9 Home West Side 6:30 p.m.

MMI students participate in ‘Volunteer Day’

For more information about MMI athletic schedules, visit: http://highschoolsports.net

Nearly 250 students at MMI put away their books one Friday afternoon in October and gave their time and effort to participate in their second annual Volunteer Day cleanup and restoration projects throughout surrounding communities.

MMI’s Volunteer Day was held in conjunction with National Make A Difference Day, which was Saturday, October 25. The school coordinated its program efforts through the Volunteer Center of Greater Hazleton.

“Our student council came up with the idea last year, and once again we are more than happy to work with the Volunteer Center to make this happen,” said MMI President Tom Hood. “We realize that education is not just about books and classrooms. It’s also about experiences and community involvement. Activities such as this volunteer project are just one example of how our students and their families get involved and understand the importance of their responsibility to the environment and giving back to their community.”

MMI students participated in six volunteer projects throughout Freeland, Hazleton and Hazle Township.

MMI sixth and seventh grade students helped clean up the Freeland Public Park, located at the corner of Sabol and Front streets, several blocks from MMI. Students removed brush and debris from throughout the park.

Eckley Miners’ Village benefited from a general cleaning and raking of leaves and debris from the MMI eighth grade class and MMI Vice President Dr. Jaclyn Fowler.

“I am so honored to join the students in this tremendous community project. It’s amazing how in just one afternoon of volunteer work, the students realize the importance of volunteering and taking responsibility,” Fowler said.

At the Hazleton YM/YWCA, the ninth grade class assisted in YMCA trick-or-treat preparations by decorating and making props for the Trick-or-Treat Trail.

MMI 10th grade students worked with members of the Tri-Area Recreation Authority in brush clearing and leaf-raking efforts at the Jeanesville entrance.

More than 30 students in 11th grade helped area Rails to Trails efforts by cutting back brush from the trails near the Stockton Mountain Road, as well as digging and cementing postholes for a sign on the trail.

At the YMCA in Freeland, MMI seniors assisted in organizing a storage area and general cleanup.

Two teams of students from the MMI Debate Club placed first and fourth in the annual Wilkes University Invitational Forensics Competition held recently at Wilkes University.

The tournament hosted students from more than 25 high schools in the region to compete in six speech categories and three debate events, testing their skills and talents in public speaking, dramatization, literary interpretation and argumentation and debate.

Placing first for their dramatic duo were eighth grade students Farrah Qadri and Marianne Virnelson. Qadri and Virnelson were awarded first place in the category of Duo Interpretation of Literature for their portrayal of “Loon Woman” by Margaret Hunt, a story of a woman’s struggle to become an artist.

Placing in the category of Duo Interpretation of Literature were freshmen Caroline Bandurska and Antonia Diener. Bandurska and Diener were awarded fourth place for their portrayal of Night, Mother by Marsha Norman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning play about a mother and daughter in crisis.

Other members of the debate team taking part in the competition were Ryan Twardzik, Katlyn Frey and Michelle Reck, who competed in Extemporaneous Speaking and Public Forum.

MMI Debate Team Adviser and English Teacher Matthew Kenenitz said he was proud of the team and their performance at their first competition this school year. “The students did a great job preparing for the competition. They were able to experience debating at a collegiate level and have the opportunity to work with the Wilkes University students as well. With what we have learned here, we are looking forward to our upcoming competitions.”

Sixth grade student earns ballet honor

Sixth grade student Alessandra Ortiz auditioned and was accepted into the Degnan Ballet Center in Kingston recently. She was offered a position with the Company II members, an honor typically given to students 13 and older.

As a member of the company, she was also selected to perform in the recent holiday production of “The Nutcracker” and in the spring production of “Swan Lake.” Congratulations!

MMI debate team students earning awards at the recent Wilkes University Forensics Invitational are, from left: Antonia Diener, Marianne Virnelson and Farrah Qadri and MMI English Teacher and Forensics Adviser Matthew Kenenitz. Caroline Bandurska also earned an award.

MMI mid school students participate in Volunteer Day activities at Eckley Miners’ Village in Freeland.

Dean’s ListKelly Barron ’04 Susquehanna UniversityNoelle Lynn Brandmier ’06 Rochester Institute of Technology Sonya Kalim ’07 King’s CollegeIan Kollar ’06 King’s CollegeLaura Satterfield ’06 King’s CollegeKrystina Sissick ’07 Chestnut Hill CollegeDaniel Vaskalis ’07 King’s College

MMI senior receives award from Polonaise Society

Jake Kislan, MMI Class of ’56 and board member of the Greater Hazleton Polonaise Society, presents MMI senior Eric Twardzik with a monetary award, a pen and a certificate for his essay on the subject “The First Polish Settlers in Jamestown, Virginia in the year 1608.” The award was presented to Eric at the Greater Hazleton Polonaise Society Annual Ball.

4 9

MMI is especially close to the heart of the school’s newest chair of the board of directors, as she’s an alumna herself.

Noted local businesswoman Andrea Kosko ’74 took over the reins as board chair in September 2008 and is serving her second term on the board.

“All the board members combined have a great deal of wisdom, and it’s my goal to honor that wisdom as the school moves forward. We’re all excited to see what the future will bring for MMI,” she said.

Kosko said that although MMI has seen many changes since she was a student, being a graduate of the school has already proven beneficial to her as board chair, as she’s very familiar with the school’s mission.

After finishing her high school career at MMI, she graduated magna cum laude from Marywood College in Scranton with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Management. Kosko continued on to business success, now serving as a partner and chief financial officer at Fellin’s Jewelers, her family’s business. She holds memberships with the American Gem Society, Jewelers of America and the Pennsylvania Retail Jewelers Association.

Fellin’s, a fixture in downtown Hazleton, was founded by her maternal grandparents, John and Mary Fellin, in 1922, and she joined the business full time in 1986. Kosko’s sister, Mary Celeste Kosko, and their mother, Celeste Fellin Kosko, are also involved in the business.

“When you’re in a family business, as soon as you can walk and talk, you’re helping out. My sister and I grew up in the business and both of us are now partners there,” she said.

Kosko takes care of the financial matters at Fellin’s, including accounting and inventory as well as advertising. The different aspects of her job appeal to separate parts of her personality in what she thinks of as a “left brain-right brain” dichotomy.

“I really enjoy handling the finances as well as the creative part of the business. Also, one of my favorite parts of this position is trying to refine our technology and efforts to become more of a presence on the Internet,” she said.

Kosko credits MMI with helping her develop the tools to succeed in her career, saying, “My MMI education is the foundation on which I have built throughout my life. At MMI, I learned the importance of persevering in order to achieve success.”

Of all her MMI memories, one of her favorites is the 1973 championship basketball season. “As a student, that was so exciting,” she recalled. “It might as well have been the world championship of basketball!”

As a freshman, Kosko was part of the first group of girls to be accepted at MMI and remembers many interesting stories from those days, especially of the female students who had to share the secretary’s private, one-person bathroom until the girls’ restroom was completed.

“Having female students at MMI was probably even more of an interesting experience for the boys, since they had to get used to us girls being there. When we were freshmen, the sophomores, juniors and seniors were all male and had always been surrounded by male students,” she said. “But it was a lot of fun and we were very nicely welcomed by all the boys.”

“Throughout my four years at MMI, I was challenged not only by the faculty, but also by my peers, to constantly do better and to excel. I truly believe I finished at a much higher level than had I not been at MMI,” she said.

Kosko, a Sugarloaf resident, said since MMI alumni have so much to offer, it’s important for them to consider

staying or returning to northeastern Pennsylvania.

“It’s good to be exposed to the rest of the world, but it’s so important to come back and

make a contribution. Your energy and ideas are as important a contribution as money,”

she said.

Kosko presented a similar message when she spoke during MMI’s 2005 commencement ceremonies, saying, “There has been a serious out-migration of well-educated young people just like you. And the fact of the matter is, your hometowns need you right here. They

need your intellect, your energy and your creativity. They need you to serve

on volunteer boards, to participate in the political process, to raise funds for the many

worthy charities and to raise morale.”

That advice comes from someone who is, herself, dedicated to improving the Greater Hazleton community. In addition to her involvement with MMI, she also serves on the

board of directors of the Hazleton Area Public Library and the Hazleton chapter of the American Red Cross. She previously served on the boards of Meals on Wheels of Greater Hazleton, the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance (NEPA) and the Alliance to Rebuild Center-City Hazleton (ARCH), as well as the Business Advisory Committee at Penn State Hazleton. Kosko also served a term as secretary of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce.

“The Hazleton area is, in a sense, our incubator. We grew up and got our values here, learning from our parents and our families the things we take with us all throughout life,” she said. “And now, it’s essential to consider our roots. As individuals, we have our own goals, but we need to help our local communities achieve the goals they have as well.”

Alumna gives back to MMI, community Businesswoman encourages graduates to return to area

PPL was one of several businesses that contributed to MMI Preparatory School this year through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program to go toward need-based scholarships at the school.

PPL contributed $40,000 to MMI through the EITC Program. EITC contributions to MMI by area businesses totaled more than $260,000 this year.

“MMI students have benefited greatly from the generosity of companies such as PPL. Our school is extremely grateful to PPL and the many businesses that have contributed to the EITC program for their continued support,” said MMI President Thomas Hood. “These gifts are a tremendous help to MMI families.”

More than 60 percent of students who attend MMI Preparatory School receive some type of financial aid toward tuition. “Helping these families is a very worthwhile cause and PPL is pleased to be able to contribute toward making an MMI education possible for some of these students. It’s fortunate that the state offers tax credit incentives that enable companies such as PPL to contribute to educational programs in the community,” said PPL Customer Programs Director Florie McNelis.

Businesses that donate to MMI are eligible to receive tax credits amounting to 75% of their charitable contribution for a one-year contribution or 90% if they make a two-year commitment to contribute. Donations of any amount are eligible for the tax credit. The maximum amount of tax credits that can be received in a given year is $300,000.

All C Corporations, S Corporations and Partnerships can participate in the program. For more information, call Jim Bebla, MMI’s director of development and alumni relations, at 570-636-1108 or e-mail jbebla@mmiprep.org.

Businesses donate more than $260,000 through EITC Program

Alumni gather at new Hazleton hot spot for a mini-reunion MMI alumni representing classes from the past 35 years gathered under restored antique plastered ceilings for hors d’oeuvres,

cocktails and conversation at the new downtown Hazleton restaurant, Mea’s. Alumni caught up with fellow classmates, made new friends and reconnected with former MMI faculty members and administrators.

“I enjoy seeing photos from other regional mini-reunions and always hoped we could have something like that locally. It was great to reconnect with alumni who live right here in Northeastern PA. I even found out that one of my fellow classmates lives only a quarter of a mile away from me,” said Grete H. DeAngelo, a member of the Class of 1992 and current faculty member in MMI’s History Department.

“It was a great event,” said attendee Stacy Moore Swearengen ’00. “I planned to meet up with some friends I hadn’t seen in a few years. I think whether you’re new to an area or have lived somewhere forever, you can never overlook the fact that you have connections available to you. I was able to reaffirm existing relationships and create new ones.”

Florie McNelis, center, of PPL Corp., presents a $40,000 EITC contribution from PPL to Thomas Hood, left, president of MMI. At right is Jim Bebla, MMI’s director of development and alumni relations.

Alumni attending the social at Mea’s in Hazleton are from left, Chris Kimmel ’08, Maxine and Richard Baran ’87, Karl Wallen ’87 and Robynn Smith.

from everyone at MMI have strengthened my vision and goals for the school, its students and their families. I look forward to my years ahead as president with great excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead,” he said.

MMI Board Chair Andrea Kosko ’74 welcomed Hood, saying, “It is my honor to officially welcome you as the pilot of MMI. We know with you at the controls, the sky’s the limit!”

Hood (continued from page 1)

MMI faculty member Grete DeAngelo ’92, Kathleen Haentjens and MMI Director of Guidance John Scibilia.

Andrea Kosko ’74Tim and Carol Twardzik, Dr. Joe and Suzanne Lobichusky, Jake Kislan ’56 and MMI Board Chair Andrea Kosko ’74.

10 3

Students inducted into Science National Honor Society

Stella Boosalis joins MMI as school librarian

MMI students make Much Ado About Nothing

What’s happening with MMI graduates around the globeAlumni Notes

MMI students recently inducted into the Science National Honor Society are, seated, from left: Kelci Scirrotto, Katrina Enright, Sarah Careyva, Taylor Olian, Brone Lobichusky, Megan Veglia, Magdalena Rychlik and Katie Laputka. Second row: adviser Anthony Gennaro, Niklas Anthony, Leo Moroz, Alaina Titus, Alyson Klush, Diana Anthony, Kristyn Lizbinski, Emily Gosselin, Nathalie Kocon, Robert Yamulla and Ross Bluth. Third row: adviser Laura Nemetz, Daniel Migatulski, John Walton, Mirza Ali, Robert Dougherty, James Facciolla, Justin Dasher, Mitch Sauers, Joseph Caputo, Lewis Bevans and Jordan Gorski. Fourth row: Tyler Breznitsky, Kyle Duffy, Paul Blanner, Jan Wessel, Adam Wisniewski, MMI President Emeritus Dr. William A. Shergalis, MMI President Tom Hood and Dr. Gregg Bluth, adviser.

Sigrid Berg ’90 married Attorney Robert Burns on October 7, 2006, and welcomed a daughter, Julia Elizabeth, on September 9, 2007. They recently moved to Bangor, Maine, where Sigrid has taken a position as a hematologist/oncologist at Eastern Maine Center.

Corporal William J. Feissner ’88 of the Butler Township Police and the Office of Attorney General Drug Task Force was

presented with the 2008 Pennsylvania Narcotic Officer’s Association Outstanding Police Performance Award. The award was presented for his undercover investigation into a large-scale cocaine distribution ring operating between New York City and southern Luzerne County.

Rachel Lee Gennaro ’02 is completing her final year at Thomas Jefferson

University, Philadelphia, and will receive a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in May. Rachel is engaged to Chad Bryan Smith, a mechanical engineer for Chalmers and Kubeck, Inc.

Ryan Oberst ’03 recently began substitute teaching at MMI.

They say a man’s home is his castle, and one MMI graduate discovered just how true that statement could be while studying in India.

During her trip abroad, Maria Dei Tos ’05 lived in a palace.

She spent six weeks in India as part of a study-abroad program, taking anthropology courses. Dei Tos, a senior biological anthropology major at Temple University, took the trip with 17 fellow Temple students and two students from other universities.

The group stayed with their professor, Dr. Jhala, whom the group called “Bapa” (a term for “father”).

“Dr. Jhala’s father was a king in the days when India had royalty, so my professor was technically a prince. He had told us we would be staying in a palace, but we really couldn’t fathom what it would be like,” Dei Tos said.

“It was amazing and absolutely huge, with 20 bedrooms or so. And when we arrived and went up to the palace, all the windows were open and monkeys were everywhere,” she said. “The kitchen staff even cooked all our meals for us.”

This was the fifth year Dr. Jhala hosted the students for the trip. His palace was in the village of Dhrangadhra, about 300 miles northwest of Mumbai. Dei Tos said 100,000 people live in Dhrangadhra – a city that is considered small by Indian standards.

The group also traveled to three Indian provinces learning more about the country, as well as Indian culture and families. Dei Tos was able to study her particular area of interest, medicine in Indian society.

“Before the trip, I learned more about India’s extensive use of a system of medicine known as Ayurveda and wanted to compare biomedicine and traditional medicine when I was there,” she said.

The students had connections through Dr. Jhala to many different places and people, including two doctors, one of

whom was also a yoga instructor.

“It was a really busy trip. Our professor took us on several field trips, including to an archaeological site,” Dei Tos said. In their spare time, members of the group worked on a Hindu religious play about one of Krishna’s parables that they later performed in front of the village.

“The female students dressed in saris and the males in proper Indian wear for the play,” she said.

She noted that the students also had some time to relax and interact with each other, especially during the hottest part of the day.

“It was about 110 degrees some days, so from about 1 to 4 p.m., people would just relax or sleep,” she said.

Dei Tos said her favorite part of the trip was a field trip to the desert before the rains of the monsoon season came.

“Dr. Jhala took us into the desert and we had a lecture there. He had planned it

so we went on the night of a full moon and we even slept in the desert. We also visited some salt mines in and around the desert on our way back,” she said. “I don’t think I would ever be able to experience something like that again.”

The trip has been in Dei Tos’ mind as she decides what to do in the future. She would like to work for an organization such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and her dream is to earn a Doctor of Medicine degree one day. She is particularly interested in the Doctors Without Borders Program and returning overseas.

“MMI taught me to aim high, keep myself busy and set goals. I think it’s very important to always keep trying and prepare yourself for what you’ll be doing next,” she said.

“I’m also learning the importance of MMI connections. The reunions are great, especially knowing it’s so easy to get in touch with fellow graduates for advice or potential job opportunities.”

Alum lives in palace while studying abroad in IndiaMMI Librarian Stella Boosalis

Maria Dei Tos in Mt. Abu, which is in Rajasthan state.

Stella Boosalis has joined the MMI faculty as the school’s full-time librarian. She was a part-time librarian at MMI during the 2007-2008 academic year. Boosalis holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Russian and Soviet Studies from the University of Portsmouth, U.K.

Boosalis previously worked in the education field in various roles, conducting educational tours in Europe and in the former Soviet Union, and as a teacher, librarian and administrator.

“The library is the backbone and the heart of any educational institution and community,” said Boosalis. “As MMI’s librarian, I am in a privileged position to share in the students’

learning on a school-wide basis.”

Enhancements Boosalis has implemented for the MMI Library include access to the interlibrary loan program, Access Pennsylvania and the Ask Here PA , which connects students with an online librarian to help assist with research questions. Each program logo is placed on the library page on the MMI web site.

This year, the MMI Library started a new tradition in celebration of International Month with displays of various countries and their cultures, all submitted by MMI faculty, staff, students and their families, featured throughout November.

The 6th through 12th grade students at MMI Preparatory were treated to a day-long interaction with DeSales University’s WillPower Tour which included a performance of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.

Prior to the show, twelfth grade students were introduced to the various aspects of Shakespeare’s work in several one-hour workshops. Seniors used the language of Shakespeare, tried their hands at the physically challenging aspects of being on stage, affected accents, managed their body language, and interacted with each other as if they were characters in Shakespeare’s plays.

These workshops not only prepared students for watching the afternoon performance of Much Ado About Nothing but also gave them the chance to understand Shakespeare and

drama in general from the perspective of the actor.

Following the performance, all students and teachers had the opportunity to engage with the actors in a Talk Back. Students asked questions about the technical aspects of putting on a play, about the play itself, and about the actors. The Talk Back added a component to the play that enhanced students’ understanding of it.

“The experience – from the senior workshops to the performance to the Talk Back – proved memorable for the students at MMI. The students saw Shakespeare and his work in another light, and it may well have created a passion for his work that may not have existed otherwise. This day-long experience shows the beauty of an MMI education,” said event organizer MMI Vice President Jaclyn Fowler.

2 11

570-636-1108570-636-0742 (fax)mmi@mmiprep.org (email)www.mmiprep.org (Internet)

MMI Preparatory School154 Centre StreetFreeland, PA 18224

From the President

Thomas G . Hood - President William A . Shergalis, Ph .D . ’58 – President Emeritus Joseph G . Rudawski – President Emeritus

MemorialsLibrary Memorials, Annual Fund Memorials and Honors donated between August 1 and October 31, 2008

In memory of Andrew BreznitskyAtty. & Mrs. James Senape, Jr.

In memory of Hugh L. Campbell III ’52Dr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of Charles Cox ’55Rev. David M. Bobbey ’55

In memory of Bernard Cudwadie ’65Mr. Nicholas Nemesh

In memory of Walter F. FloryshakMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clarke & Family

In memory of Eva FogashAtty. & Mrs. James Senape, Jr.

In memory of Shirley GalloMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clarke & Family

In memory of Atty. Morton Gordon ’52Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gicking & FamilyMr. & Mrs. Hans KoenigMs. Andrea Kosko ’74Mrs. Celeste Fellin KoskoMs. Mary Celeste KoskoMr. & Mrs. Lewis Matuella Ms. Paula RadickDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58Ms. Regina S. Steeber

In memory of Charles H. GriffithMr. Todd Caputo ’06Ms. Gretchen Caputo ’06

In memory of John J. Herkalo ’38Mr. & Mrs. Joseph G. Rudawski

In memory of Ruth Learn HerskerMr. Nicholas Nemesh

In memory of Catherine HochMr. & Mrs. Joseph MooreCurtis & Stacy Swearengen ’00

In memory of Ann JoyceAtty. & Mrs. James Senape, Jr.

In memory of Joseph LeganoskyDr. & Mrs. John Della Croce ’73

In memory of Stephen LizbinskiMr. & Mrs. Mark AnthonyMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clarke & Family

In memory of Alvan J. Lynn ’55Rev. David M. Bobbey ’55Mr. & Mrs. Robert GouldMr. & Mrs. Carl LynnMr. & Mrs. Daniel McCannMr. & Mrs. Joseph G. RudawskiMrs. Judith Lynn SchoenDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58Ms. Sandra TisiMr. & Mrs. Thomas Widmeier

In memory of Carl Lynn ’58Mr. & Mrs. Robert GouldMr. & Mrs. Carl LynnMr. & Mrs. Daniel McCannMrs. Judith Lynn SchoenMr. & Mrs. Thomas Widmeier

In memory of George MachinchickDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of Sandra MalazendaDr. & Mrs. John Della Croce ’73

In memory of Joseph MattaviDr. & Mrs. John Della Croce ’73

In memory of Harry W. McClellanEstate of Lucy Norris

In honor of George Medash’s retirementNorm & Ann Marie Ceriani & Family

In memory of Ray Mensinger ’47Dr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of Patricia MolinaroDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of John J. Ratchko Sr.Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clarke & Family

In memory of Ruth RefowichMr. Nicholas NemeshMr. & Mrs. Joseph G. Rudawski

In honor of Dr. William A. Shergalis’ retirementAgnes M. O’Donnell

In memory of Ruth SingleyDr. & Mrs. William A. Shergalis ’58

In memory of Magdeline TichyDr. & Mrs. John Della Croce ’73

In memory of Carrie UchnoMr. Nicholas Nemesh

Published quarterly, MMI Today is the official newsletter of

Milestones

Events in the lives of the MMI Prep family

DeathsBernard Cudwadie ’65 died August 4. He is survived by his parents, Bernard and Margaret, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Atty. Morton Gordon ’52 died August 7. Surviving are his wife, Marilyn; a son, Scott ’77, and his wife, Christina; a daughter, Lisa ’78, and her husband, Gerard ’77; a sister, Esther, and one grandson.

Hugh Campbell III ’52 died October 7. He is survived by daughters, Maureen, Kathleen and Colleen; sons, Hugh and Sean; a sister, Rosemary; brothers, John and Terry, and several grandchildren.

John Herkalo ’38 died September 17. He is survived by sons, James and John; a daughter, Mary Pat; sisters, Dorothy and Anna, and several grandchildren.

Alvan Lynn ’55 died August 28. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughters, Cynthia, Corrine and Kristen; a son, Allan, and several grandchildren.

Ray Mensinger ’47 died September 17. He is survived by a son, Michael; a sister, Beverly; a brother, Wayne, and several grandchildren.

* Note: Due to space limitations, all death notices could not be included in this issue. These notices will be included in the Spring issue.

Greetings from MMI,

We continue to have a successful year at your school. The students are excelling, not only academically, but in athletics, activities, character and service. This newsletter will highlight not only their successes, but those of some of our alumni and friends. The economy is on everyone’s mind here in Freeland, just as it is, I’m sure, with you. In the coming months we will be calling many of you asking you to contribute to our Annual Fund. In these difficult economic times, your support is more critical than ever. I ask you to pledge what you can so we can continue to provide a great education to all deserving area students.

I want to spend the next couple newsletters outlining our vision for MMI and its future. This does not represent a major shift with what we have done in the past, but since we will be asking for your support, I think it is important that we share a common vision for the school. What you will see is the mission of the school has not changed in the 129 years since Eckley and Sophia Coxe established MMI. We will continue to adapt to remain relevant for our future and the future of our students.

“To provide dedicated area students with a comprehensive and inspiring 6th-12th grade college preparatory program that maximizes each individual’s academic, social and character potential in preparation for success in college and beyond.”

These are the words of the current MMI mission statement. The Board of Directors modified this statement back in the spring and I think they did a great job of capturing the essence of the school. You will see, if you compare it with our previous mission statement, that we are still creating a college preparatory environment where our students can excel: at MMI, at college and throughout their lives. This excellence involves maximizing each student’s potential in three key areas of their life: intellectual, social and character. In upcoming newsletters, you will hear me talk about our five pillars of excellence; academic, athletics, activities, character and service. Students must push themselves in each of these areas to maximize their individual potential in these areas. That does not mean every MMI student will get straight A’s, only that they will all perform to the best of their ability in everything they do.

We have also added inspiration to our new mission statement. Inspiring our students requires that we provide a broad educational base while exposing our students to opportunities and professions they may encounter after they leave MMI. In short, we want them to recognize what they enjoy and are good at doing. We can do this by offering electives as well as out of classroom educational opportunities to our comprehensive curriculum. We want to foster an environment at MMI that models and encourages lifelong learning by our students.

Sharing our interpretation of the MMI mission statement is meant to be the beginning of a dialogue with all those who love MMI. I welcome your input on these thoughts. Please feel free to call, email or write me with any ideas you have. I will also be traveling in the coming months talking individually to some of you on how we can continue to change the lives of students from our area of Northeast PA. MMI is OUR school and needs all of our involvement to ensure its future is as bright as its past.

May you have a joyous and peace-filled 2009.

Sincerely yours,

Thomas G. Hood

President

T h e N e w s l e T T e r o f M M I P r e P a r a T o r y s c h o o l

w I N T e r 2 0 0 9

NON-PROFITORGANIZATIONU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFREELAND, PA

PERMIT#11

MMI Preparatory School154 Centre StreetFreeland, PA 18224

Address service requested

Applicants report to the MMI Main Office (Ridge Street entrance) by 8:45 a.m. Testing takes approximately 3 hours and usually ends by 12:15 p.m.

January 24, May 2, June 17, 2009 Visitation Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 20 & March 19, 2009Mid-School Formal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 7, 2009Drama Presentation The Wizard of Oz . . . March 20 & 21, 2009Open House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 29, 2009Spring Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 25, 2009Wister Quartet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 4, 2009

Entrance Exam Testing Dates Upcoming Events

Founders’ Day: A beginning of new traditions

MMI Honorary Board holds Annual Meeting

The MMI senior class once again honored the school’s founders, Eckley and Sophia Coxe, with the annual Founders’ Day Ceremony on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving at St. James Church, Drifton, following a traditional Thanksgiving lunch sponsored by the Parent Faculty Organization.

The senior class officers first laid a wreath at the Coxes’ grave site at St. James Church, with a brief service inside the church, as is tradition every year. This year, a new tradition has begun. The sixth grade is now included in the commemoration.

The seniors presented to the sixth grade students a brief history of benefactors Eckley and Sophia Coxe and the beginnings of MMI. Seniors Adam Wisniewski, Mitch Sauers, Kristyn Lizbinski and Gabrielle Joseph talked about the history of Sophia as Angel of the Anthracite; Eckley and the history of the Coxe Brothers; mining life; how Eckley and Sophia cared about the quality of life of the miners and their families; and the Coxes’ impact on the community. They also discussed the history of how the Coxes started the then all-boys’ school and its development into the MMI of today. The sixth grade was encouraged to make their class story a part of MMI history.

MMI President Tom Hood spoke to the students about giving thanks to their families for their sacrifice and the opportunity to be a part of MMI, saying, “With great opportunity comes great responsibility. Be thankful for the opportunities you have and make the most of them here.”

MMI alumni also joined in the Founders’ Day celebrations once more. Alumni representing classes from the past four years gathered in the library to socialize and reconnect during a special Founders’ Day event sponsored by the MMI Alumni and Development Office.

The young alumni met with members of the junior and senior classes to serve as advisors of

the college application, selection and transition process. Topics of conversation included making the most of a campus visit; demystifying the college application process; making the most of time left at MMI; adjusting to campus life; and identifying ways to get involved on campus.

“The event showed me a lot about what college is like,“ said Stephanie Palko, a current MMI senior. Fellow senior Kristyn Lizbinski agreed, saying the alumni provided “really good insight into what next year will hold.”

MMI President Tom Hood welcomed at reception

Members of the MMI Honorary Board and the MMI Board of Directors attended the 13th Annual Honorary Board Meeting at the Valley Country Club. William Flood, Honorary Board Chair, presided at the meeting. New members appointed to the MMI Honorary Board are MMI President Emeritus Dr. William Shergalis ’58, Mountaintop, and Mr. Pasco Schiavo, Esq., Hazleton. Shown, seated, from left, are Joseph Turri ’45, Edward Sharp ’36, Agnes O’Donnell, Lucetta Alderfer, MMI Board Chair Andrea Kosko ’74, Lillian Urenovich and Barbara Ecker. Standing, from left, are MMI President Emeritus Joseph Rudawski, William Flood, Atty. Henry Giuliani, Donald Sanderson, Tim Farley, Brian Lucas ’84, Jeff Gicking ’75, William Spear, Jr. ’79, Nick Dei Tos ’71, Tim Twardzik and MMI President Tom Hood.

Welcoming Mr. Thomas G. Hood, center, as MMI's president are, from left: William Thomas, the Honorable Correale Stevens, Sally Thomas ’73 and Penn State Hazleton Chancellor Dr. Gary Lawler.

MMI Preparatory School formally welcomed Mr. Thomas G. Hood as the school’s new president with a reception hosted recently at the school by the MMI Board of Directors. Hood and his wife, Mary-Lee, were welcomed by alumni, staff, faculty, friends and family members. Approximately 100 people enjoyed the casual, convivial atmosphere of the evening.

Hood became the 10th president on August 1, 2008, taking the reins from Dr. William A. Shergalis, an alum from the class of 1958. In taking the presidency, Hood has committed to moving MMI into the future. “The many expressions of support and encouragement

See HOOD, Page 9

MMI senior class officers lay a wreath at the grave site of Eckley and Sophia Coxe as Reverend William O’Hara ’71, MMI faculty member, looks on.