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Joseph E. Andry ‘67*
For his perseverance in demonstrating that ability can prevail over physical handicaps. Track star and co-captain of the Vikings’ 1966 state-championship cross-country team, he was severely wounded and lost a leg while serving in Vietnam. Went on to make a career of helping other disabled veterans. Executive Director of Disabled American Veterans of Ohio. America’s “Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year” in 1979. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 20, 1988.
Dr. Carl F. Asseff ‘59
For distinguished achievement in the field of medicine and in community service. Chief of Staff at St. Alexis and St. Vincent Charity Hospitals. Chief of Ophthalmology at St. Alexis. Earned M.D. from Ohio State University. Also earned J.D. degree at Cleveland Marshall Law School an M.B.A. from Cleveland State. President of the Board of Trustees of Cleveland Public Library. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 23, 1987.
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Ronald J Banc ‘64*
For exemplifying the “Viking Spirit” during many years of tireless support for St. Joseph High School. Often referred to as the Vikings’ “Number One Fan.” Instrumental in reactivating the SJH Booster Club, he served as its President from 1976 to 1978.
A medic with the U.S. Army in Korea. Technical service engineer and sales engineer for Lubrizol Corp. Died December 16, 1981. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 23, 1987.
Teresa (Metcalf) Beasley '83
For her selfless dedication to serving her community and a distinguished career in law. Career achievements include the appointment of partner at the Calfee, Halter & Griswold law firm and serving as law director for the City of Cleveland. Recognized for her commitment to helping others and her dedication to having a positive impact in the community and her passion for mentoring and empowering young women. Inducted into the Hall of Fame November 2016.
Jim Beers ‘60*
For demonstrating courageous spirit in the service of God, despite having suffered severe paralysis from a stroke. Though his vocal cords were rendered useless, this “salesman for God” has made hundreds of speaking appearances with wife Mary Lou to share his perspectives on God’s great love. Active in the Apostolate for the Mentally Retarded and the Catholic Renew Program. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 23, 1987.
Mary Lou Beers ’61*
For serving as a model of faith and hope in meeting life’s challenges. Devoted wife and companion to husband Jim, with whom she has made numerous speaking appearances to spread the message of God’s love. Helped Jim learn to communicate after he lost use of his vocal chords. Eucharistic minister and PSR teacher at St. Mary Magdalene. Active supporter of Apostolate for the Mentally Retarded. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 6, 1992.
Marilyn Tucci Belevice ‘68
For her energetic efforts to keep alive the spirit of Villa Angela Academy, most notably by chairing the successful “Ladies Night Out” events that maintain a bond between VA graduates while raising funds for VASJ. A professional hairdresser/entrepreneur, she and husband Al operate Studio 305 beauty salon. Marilyn’s life of service has included volunteer work for Birthright, St. Jerome PTU, Euclid Veterans Auxiliary, and at the Ursuline Motherhouse. Inducted into Hall of Fame Nov. 17, 2006.
Sr. Maria Berlec '67, OSU
For her dedication to serving God, having professed vows in 1973, and decades of teaching students at Villa Angela Academy, VASJ and in El Salvador. Served as principal of VASJ in 1992, just one year after the schools’ merger. She is credited with being a calm and stabilizing force during that time and remains such a force in the VASJ classroom today. Inducted into the Hall of Fame November 2016.
Mayor Annette (McMillian) Blackwell '80
For a distinguished career in local government and steadfast service to community. Became the first woman and first African American mayor of Maple Heights in its 100-year history. Prior to her mayoral appointment, held roles that include senior commercial property tax analyst and co-leader of the black employee network at Deloitte and Ryan Global Tax Services. At KeyBank, she worked in installment lending, and at University Hospitals as administrative coordinator to the president and chief medical officer of University Hospitals Physician Services. Serves on the executive boards of the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, the Cuyahoga County Managers and City Managers Association, Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency and the First Suburbs Consortium, and she is a member of the Ohio Municipal League and National League of CIties. Strong faith and Christian service are intertwined within all aspects of Blackwell’s personal and professional life; recipient of the Exceptional Woman of Excellence Award by the Woman of God Ministries. Blackwell’s personal motto is “Our life is not our own, for that reason, I chose to serve.” Inducted into Hall of Fame November 8, 2018.
John R. Blakemore ‘62
For exemplifying Viking ideals in athletics, community service, career, and devotion to family. Chief of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at St. John & Westshore Hospital. Teacher at CWRU Dental School and University Hospital. An all-around athlete at St. Joseph, he captained football, wrestling, and track teams and served as student government president. Little League and CYO coach. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 20, 1988.
Janice Consolo Borkey ‘57
For outstanding career achievement and service to community. Executive Vice President of Professional Electric Products Co. (PEPCO), the largest privately owned electrical distributorship in Northern Ohio. Active in St. Felicitas Parish. Supporter of Stella Maris, Gilmour Academy, The Andrews School, Birthright, and Amnesty International. Generous benefactor of Villa Angela Endowment Fund. Inducted into Hall of Fame April 26, 1991.
Thomas J. Brazaitis ‘58*
For distinguished career achievement in the field of journalism. Washington Bureau Chief for the Cleveland Plain Dealer and political columnist for that newspaper. Captain of 1957-58 Viking basketball team. Also captained John Carroll University basketball team. Served as U.S. Army lieutenant in Germany. Launched award-winning journalism career as Editor of the East Cleveland Leader in 1964. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 23, 1987.
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Bill Cervenik ‘72
For distinguished community service, as a councilman and as Mayor of the City of Euclid, as well as his endeavors on behalf of his alma mater. Vice-chairman of the inaugural SJH/VASJ Hall of Fame Committee. Certified public accountant. Elected to Euclid City Council in 1989. Named Council president in 1997. Elected Mayor in 2003. Re-elected in 2007. Honored by the Euclid Chamber of Commerce for his contributions to the city’s economic development. Inducted into Hall of Fame Sept 11, 2009.
Sr. Irene Charette, OSU ’56
For a lifetime of devoted service to God and to her students. Entered the Ursuline order in 1956. Taught French and Latin at Beaumont School prior to spending 20 years at Villa Angela and VASJ, from 1977 to 1997. Outside the classroom, she served as director of admissions and as a moderator for many clubs. Past president and founding member of the Diocesan Foreign Language Assn. Inducted into Hall of Fame April 30, 1999.
Susan Podboy Coan '73
For dedicating her life for more than four decades to ensuring students in Collinwood, East Cleveland and Euclid have access to a Catholic education. Under her leadership as principal of St. Jerome School, the school has flourished in enrollment and remains the only Catholic grade school in Collinwood. Named “Teacher of the Year” by the Diocese of Cleveland in 2004. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 2, 2020.
William '62 & Lori (Boltezar) '62 Cosgrove
For distinguished achievement in industry and steadfast support of VASJ High School and the Ursuline College community. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Bill (SJ ‘62) rose through the management ranks to become Chairman & CEO at Swagelok Company, a billion-dollar manufacturer of fluid system components with facilities worldwide. Lori (VA ‘62), a former chemist for Standard Oil Co., has served as a volunteer at Ursuline for 30 years and also volunteers with the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. Inducted into Hall of Fame Fall 2002.
Mr. Tony* & Mrs. Rose* Cvelbar
For long-standing support of Catholic education and service to the community. Proud parents of 11 children-including nine sons who graduated from St. Joseph High. Active in many school and civic organizations, including St. Christine Parish Booster Club and St. Joseph Booster Club. Tony served as an officer of Local 1228 of the AFL-CIO. Rose supervised St. Christine school milk program. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 27, 1989.
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Donald J. Dailey '70
For his proven leadership and pride as a student at St. Joseph High school, an alumnus and a professional. Served as captain of the football team and as a member of the Board of Advisors for VASJ. Held a successful career as regional managing partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers, overseeing 1,200 employees spread out over a dozen cities in six states. For his continued fundraising efforts, including a generous gift of $250,000 to renovate the gym to provide a better environment for sports, school events and extra-curricular activities. His message to students is simple: take advantage of your time at the school. Inducted into the Hall of Fame November 2016.
Timothy Davis ‘72
For enthusiastic leadership of the Oarsmen, the Viking booster club, and various volunteer endeavors on behalf of VASJ athletics and other school programs. Active with the Oarsmen since 1992 and five-term President, 1995-1999. Chairman of class reunions. With wife Norma, staged several “Alumni Bash” events. A certified inspector with the Cleveland Housing Network, Tim’s volunteer roles have included coaching Holy Cross CYO girls’ basketball teams. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 17, 2006.
William M. Denihan '55*
For his stellar career in making Northeast Ohio a safer and healthier place to live. Served as Cleveland’s public service director, public safety director and police chief. He also served as personnel director for the State of Ohio and Cuyahoga County as well as director of the county’s Department of Children and Family Services. Named chairman of a lay commission in 2002 by Bishop Anthony Pilla to review the Diocese of Cleveland’s policies and procedures regarding cases of sexual abuse. Shortly after that, he was named CEO of the Cuyahoga County Community Mental Health Board. Spent 16 years of his career leading the Cuyahoga County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board, coordinating treatment services and providing training to police officers to better help those struggling with substance or mental illness. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 8, 2018.
Dr. Daniel Dickriede '78
For making a difference not only in the local community but around the globe. An ER doctor, Daniel is also a member of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning humanitarian relief organization Doctors Without Borders. He has gone on numerous international aid trips, including to Afghanistan, Sudan, Zaire and more, helping people at clinics, orphanages and other places he visited along the way. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 4, 2022.
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Sr. M. Ursula Fahey, OSU*
For 62 years of devoted service to God and to Catholic education. Entered Ursuline Order in 1929. Teacher at St. Therese, Immaculate Conception, and St. Ann elementary schools. Joined Villa Angela faculty in 1945 as a teacher of biology and religion. Moderator of VA Alumnae Association for 30 years. Served as audio-visual coordinator. Monitor of Ursuline Prayer Line. Retired in 1984. Inducted into Hall of Fame April 26, 1991.
Joe Farrell ’61*
For multi-talented service to St. Joseph High as a teacher, administrator, fundraiser, and spokesperson. Math teacher for 22 years. Guidance Director, Assistant Principal, Alumni Director, Director of Development, and basketball announcer extraordinaire. St. Joseph “Man of the Year” in 1985. President of Euclid City Council. Instrumental in organizing “Old World Festival” on East 185th St. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 20, 1988.
Umberto Fedeli ‘78
For a distinguished career in business and for his commitment to community involvement. While in college, he launched an insurance business known today as the Fedeli Group, one of the largest privately held insurance brokerage firms in Ohio. Built success through relationship-building and value-added customer service. Honored for philanthropic and community service. Helped establish Northern Ohio Italian-American Foundation. Served as chairman of Ohio Turnpike Commission. Inducted into Hall of Fame Fall 2002.
London Fletcher ’93
For outstanding achievement in the field of athletics and for reflecting the spirit of VASJ through his charitable endeavors. One of the top defensive players in the National Football League, London set franchise tackling records as a middle linebacker for both the St. Louis Rams and Buffalo Bills. Helped Rams win Super Bowl XXXIV. Led VASJ basketball team to two state championships. Named Division III national “linebacker-of-year” at John Carroll University. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 17, 2006.
Kevin Flynt '70
For being a lifelong supporter of St. Joseph High School and VASJ. Dubbed "Commander Kev" by his classmates, he was instrumental in spearheading his 40th and 50th class reunions. He has championed numerous fundraisers for the school, including VASJ's recent Keeping Our Promises Campaign. Kevin, who previously worked in admissions, alumni relations and development at VASJ, continues to volunteer his time. He demonstrates what it means to be a true Viking leader. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 4, 2022.
Tim Flynt ‘71
For demonstrating an uncommon loyalty to his alma mater, especially through his dedicated support of St. Joseph High and VASJ athletic programs. Proprietor of “Skinny’s” Bar and Grill- home of the “Viking burger." Tim has provided meals for sports teams and has served as volunteer cook for major school fundraisers. Coached the Vikings’ freshman football team for 16 years. As a senior at SJH, he earned “most improved lineman” award in football. Little League and CYO coach. Inducted into Hall of Fame April 30, 2004.
Sally Furlich*
For dedicated service to St. Joseph High and VASJ above and beyond the call of duty. Secretary in the Alumni Office. Manager of the school Bookstore. Worked in Development Office and Treasurer’s Office. A caring “unofficial” counselor to many students. Generously donated her time to ensure the success of numerous school events and activities. Died on March 6, 1992. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 6, 1992.
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Bro. Gilbert J. Gensler, SM*
For 35 years of devoted service to St. Joseph High. Mathematics teacher. Varsity bowling coach. Founder of the varsity and intramural bowling programs. Teacher at Dayton Chaminade, Mineola Chaminade, and Cincinnati Purcell before joining the St. Joseph faculty in 1952. After 25 years of coaching, “Orb” was saluted as “Dean of scholastic bowling coaches.” Retired from teaching in 1988. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 20, 1988.
Bob Golic ‘75
For outstanding achievement in athletics, both at St. Joseph High and during his career in college and in the National Football League. Set Viking record for most tackles in a season. Won Ohio heavyweight wrestling championship in 1975. All-American in wrestling and football at Notre Dame. Set Notre Dame record for career tackles. Twice named to the Pro Bowl as a nose tackle for the Cleveland Browns. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 23, 1987.
Michael L. Golic ’81
For outstanding achievement in athletics and in community service. A football standout for the St. Joe Vikings, he was named to Parade Magazine All-America team. Placed third in state wrestling tournament. Captain of Notre Dame football team. Drafted by Houston Oilers in 1985. Defensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles. Actively involved in New Jersey’s “Say No to Drugs” program. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 6, 1992.
Elvis Grbac ’88
For outstanding achievement in athletics at the high school, college, and professional level. In his junior year, he led St. Joseph to the Class AAA state basketball semifinals. As a quarterback for the University of Michigan, he set several Wolverine passing records. Recruited by the San Francisco 49ers. Served as backup to QB Steve Young before signing a five-year contract with Kansas City. Inducted into Hall of Fame April 30, 1999.
Bernard J. Guilfoyle
For 36 years of dedicated service to St. Joseph High and VASJ as a teacher and coach. A 1951 University of Dayton graduate, he joined SJH faculty in 1955. Teacher of English and world history. As Head Basketball Coach from 1955 to 1967, he posted a record of 200 wins, 75 losses. His 1960-61 team went unbeaten (18-0) in regular season. Athletic Director, 1967-79. Later became Head Golf Coach. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 6, 1992.
William J. Gutbrod*
For long and dedicated service as a teacher and coach at St. Joseph High and VASJ. Head football coach from 1950 to 1990. In 41 seasons, his teams compiled a record of 268 wins, 107 losses, 17 ties. His Vikings won seven Crown Conference titles and enjoyed five undefeated seasons. Compiled 25-game unbeaten string from 1962 to 1964. Coached Viking gridders to Ohio Division II state championship in 1989. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 23, 1987.
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Rev. James L. Heft, SM ’61
For devoted service to the cause of Catholic religious education. Teacher of English and religion at Cincinnati Purcell and Cincinnati Moeller High, 1967-69. Ordained by the Society of Mary in 1973. Became Chairman of the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Dayton in 1983. Appointed Provost and Vice President of the university in 1988. Author of a book on Pope John XXII. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 27, 1989.
Ann (Iffarth) Hirsch '64
For being an integral part of Ladies Night Out since the very beginning. From helping with setup to organizing raffle prizes to handling name tags, Ann can always be counted on as a wonderful volunteer. A longtime supporter of the school, she selflessly gives of her time and talents to VASJ. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 4, 2022.
Sr. Rosemary Hocevar ’55, OSU
For dedicated service to Catholic education. Teacher at Sacred Heart and Villa Angela Academy. Principal at VA from 1970 through 1976. Encouraged educational innovations-including an “open space” school design-that earned wide recognition for the school. Served as Diocesan coordinator for secondary schools. Appointed Vice President at Ursuline College in 1991. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 3, 1995.
Dr. Richard E. Holzheimer '57
For his distinguished career in obstetrics and gynecology as a healthcare provider and educator. He was affiliated with University Hospitals for most of his career and also taught at Case Western Reserve University. He credits his time at St. Joseph High School for fostering proper study habits and teaching him that discipline is necessary to achieve goals. Having been recognized throughout his career, he is most proud of the awards he has given to VASJ students through the scholarship he created to assist students who express a desire to pursue medical careers. Inducted into the Hall of Fame November 2016.
Desmond Howard ‘88
For outstanding achievement in athletics at the high school, college, and professional level. One of only four players in history to win both the Heisman Trophy and the Super Bowl MVP award. All-American at Michigan, he set Wolverine season scoring record. Voted 1991 Heisman winner. Drafted by the Washington Redskins and also played for four other NFL teams. His 244 kick-return yards spurred Green Bay to victory in Super Bowl XXXI. Named to 2001 Pro Bowl while playing for Detroit Lions. Inducted into Hall of Fame Fall 2002.
The Howley Family Foundation
Recipients of the Distinguished Foundation Award
Nick and Lorie Howley formed the Howley Foundation in 2001 with the intent of helping all students, regardless of their financial situation, receive the best education possible. The Howley family began its lasting relationship with VASJ in 2004 by giving between one to three scholarships a year. During the 2016-17 school year, they inducted a record number of 12 incoming VASJ freshmen into the Howley Scholar Program at VASJ. The Howleys have helped over 70 VASJ students and have donated over $500,000 in scholarships. Most of the students selected for this scholarship would not have been able to attend VASJ without the financial support from the Howleys. The Howleys do more than just support students financially — they create relationships with the students. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 2016.
Judy (Braun) Hutchinson ’58
For distinguished career achievement and service to Villa Angela Academy. President and Owner of THAT’S ADVERTISING, a Mentor advertising and public relations agency. President of VA Alumnae Board. Coordinated reunion planning committees. Director of Lake County’s “Neighbor to Neighbor” welcoming service. Member of Women Business Owners of the Western Reserve. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 6, 1992.
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Sr. Jean Iffarth, OSU ’66
For a distinguished career in the field of education and leadership in community service. Sister Jean taught at St. Joseph Elementary School, at Beaumont School for Girls, and at her alma mater, Villa Angela Academy. After earning a master’s degree in canon law, she served on the Cleveland Diocesan Tribunal and on the Ursuline Sisters Council. While at Beaumont, from 1975-1985, she served as president of Heights Community Congress. Died August 21, 2001. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 17, 2006.
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Clark Kellogg ‘79
For outstanding achievement in athletics and for serving as a fine role model for those who would follow in his footsteps. Led St. Joseph Viking basketball team to state championship finals in 1979. Set seven school records, including most points in a game (51). At The Ohio State University, he was chosen Big Ten MVP in 1981-82. Starred for the Indiana Pacers in the NBA. Established scholarship fund at SJH. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 23, 1987.
Thomas Kenny '72
For playing a significant role in molding young men at VASJ as the former head freshman football coach and an assistant varsity football coach. Tom "Red" Kenny, who played for both Coach Bill Gutbrod and Coach John Storey ’59, continues to impact young student-athletes by helping to coach CYO sports at Mater Dei Academy. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 4, 2022.
Dr. Richard A. Knazek ‘58
For outstanding career achievement in the field of medical research. Inventor of the “hollow-fiber bioreactor” used in the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Earned B.S. in chemical engineering at Case Institute of Technology and M.D. degree from Ohio State. Served 15 years on staff at the National Cancer Institute. Named by U.S. Jaycees as one of America’s “Ten Outstanding Young Men” in 1976. Inducted into Hall of Fame April 26, 1991.
Tom '64 and Marlene Kuskin
For being tireless volunteers and supporters of VASJ for over 30 years. A former teacher at St. Joseph Collinwood and Gesu Catholic School, Marlene has always had a passion for Catholic education. The Kuskins are dedicated to supporting VASJ students both on and off the field, whether they’re cheering on the Vikings at an athletic game or participating in major school fundraisers. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 4, 2022.
John Kuzmic*
For energetic volunteer service to both Villa Angela Academy and St. Joseph High. Devoted countless hours in support of fund-raising activities and other programs over three decades. Officer in the Dads’ Clubs of both schools. Supervised VA “Bingo” program for 18 years and helped organize school fairs. “Viking Dad of the Year” in 1970. Boy Scout Leader. Retired from Zagar Tool Co. in 1983. Inducted into Hall of Fame April 26, 1991.
Tedd Kwasniak*
For amassing an amazing record of achievement in his long career with Viking basketball. “Coach Kwas” served as assistant coach from 1981-92, during which time the Vikings won two state titles and compiled an overall record of 224-53. As Head Coach, his teams won two more state championships and four regional titles — and posted an overall record of 132-48. In tournament play, his teams achieved a record of 35-5, a remarkable .875 winning percentage. Inducted into Hall of Fame Sept. 11, 2009.
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Evelyn Langer
For devoted service to St. Joseph High School during 33 years as the school’s Secretary. Researched and verified diplomas for more than 10,000 SJH graduates. Received an “honorary diploma” of her own in 1985. Elected as the first President of the St. Joseph High Mother’s Guild in 1953. Past President of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Guild. Retired in July 1987. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 23, 1987.
James '55 & Diane Lardie
For dedicated leadership on behalf of America’s most vulnerable children and for championing reform of the nation’s health-care systems. Helped to establish Adopt a Child Today and North American Council on Adoptable Children. Jim (SJ ‘55) founded several child-advocacy organizations, including FOR THE CHILDREN of America. Diane, a former teacher at Villa Angela, served as national director of Universal Health Care Action Network (UHCAN). Inducted into Hall of Fame Fall 2002.
Patrick Lyons ‘70*
For outstanding achievement in athletics and dedicated service to his alma mater. An honor student, he became the first Viking to earn All-Ohio honors in basketball. Set school career scoring and rebounding records. Academic All-American at Cleveland State. Partner in the accounting firm of Ellison & Associates Treasurer of SJH endowment fund. Freshman basketball coach at VASJ. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 20, 1988.
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Hon. J. Timothy McCormack ‘62
For distinguished leadership in the field of public service. Constantly strives to educate taxpayers about government processes. Euclid City Councilman. Elected to Ohio House of Representatives in 1972 and to Ohio Senate in 1974. Championed legislation to protect the environment and to aid the mentally retarded. Received “outstanding legislator” award. Elected Cuyahoga County Auditor in 1982. Inducted into Hall of Fame April 26, 1991.
James T. McDonough*
For dedication and achievement in coaching and developing young athletes. Teacher and coach at St. Joseph High, 1956 to 1967. Athletic Director and Booster Club moderator. An expert motivator, his Viking track teams won 15 major championships. Cross-country teams won state championships in 1965 1966. Track coach at Kent State, SUNY-Buffalo, and Ohio State. Inducted into Hall of Fame October 20, 1988.
Christopher McGrath '69
For his enduring pride and service to his alma mater and defining what it is to be a Viking. As an Oarsmen, his work supports the athletic programs at VASJ. He selflessly volunteers his time to his friends, his church, his neighborhood, his family and especially his alma mater. From his time in high school to today, he has truly loved every minute he has spent at VASJ. He is part of a long legacy of alumni, with seven of his siblings and all three of his children attending the school. It is his unwavering love and dedication to the school that has led him to his induction into the Hall of Fame in November 2016.
Kenneth "Binks" Maglicic '61
For displaying outstanding sportsmanship and leadership in improving safety and labor standards for employees. First Viking football player to be named to the All-Ohio Team and first to play in the Ohio North-South All-Star Classic at the Football Hall of Fame. Played football at Notre Dame where the team was awarded the National Championship by the National Football Foundation and became known as the “Resurrection Team.” First Viking to play professional football, drafted by Winnipeg (Candian Football League). Held successful career working for the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) and continued his career dedicated to job safety and health as well as labor relations. Received the President Clinton’s Achievement Award for Quality Improvement in OSHA’s Policies, Procedures, and Safety Innovations. Elected Treasurer of the American Federation of Government Employees, a labor organization representing professional labor standard regulators. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 8, 2016.
Megan (Flynt) Maimone '00
For her decorated service to our country, demonstrating leadership throughout her life. Member of the National Honor Society and a three-season athlete, participating in volleyball, basketball and track while at VASJ. Played an integral role on the DIII VASJ Women’s Basketball State Championship team in 1999 and was recognized as Girl’s Basketball MVP, won the Lady Viking Award in Volleyball and received the Lady Viking Award as senior. Continued her academic and athletic career at The United States Military Academy (West Point) where she played four years for the Division I Women’s Basketball program. Completed two deployments to Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom VI and Operation Enduring Freedom VIII). Achieved the rank of captain in the United States Army and recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon. Pursued a doctor of physical therapy degree upon retirement from the United States Army. Inducted into Hall of Fame Novermber 8, 2016.
Chuck Martinko
For dedicated service to St. Joseph High and VASJ as a teacher, coach, and enthusiastic supporter of numerous Viking activities for 22 years. Chairman of Industrial Arts Department. Cross-country and track coach. Director of Transportation. Volunteer on many booster club projects. Widely known and admired as a man who “gets things done.” Has worked tirelessly over the years to ensure the survival and continued success of the school’s industrial arts program. Inducted into Hall of Fame Fall 2002.
Neil McCormick '70
For volunteering his services to produce marketing pieces that have been instrumental in sharing VASJ's story with donors, prospective families and the greater community. After discovering his love for film while a student at St. Joseph High School, he served as owner, producer, director and editor at Cinecraft Productions in Cleveland for more than 40 years. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 2, 2020.
Janet Gergely Merrick ’66
For outstanding career achievement and tireless volunteer service. Director of Lake County General Health District’s Women, Infants and Children’s Program (WIC). Founder of cardiac rehabilitation program at St. Vincent Charity Hospital. Chief clinical dietitian at Sunny Acres Nursing Facility. Dedicated supporter of veterans’ causes. Named “Outstanding Auxiliary President” by Ohio VFW Auxiliary. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 3, 1995.
Garrick “Gary” Mishaga ‘58*
For half a century of dedicated service to his alma mater, especially his unflagging efforts to maintain the bonds forged by the Class of 1958. A standout Viking football and track athlete, he was elected SJH senior class president. Since then, he has spearheaded every class reunion, staged numerous class luncheons, and rallied fundraising support. Classmates dubbed him “President for Life.” Earned Ohio broker’s license in 1978, leading to successful career in real estate. Inducted into Hall of Fame September 11, 2009.
Michael Moran ‘69
For 16 years of enthusiastic service to St. Joseph High and VASJ as a teacher and highly successful coach. In 11 seasons as head basketball coach, his teams compiled a 224-53 record. His Vikings won nine district and four regional crowns as well as state championships in 1991 and 1992. Six of his teams were nationally ranked by USA Today. Served as Business Department chairman. Continued his coaching success at John Carroll, guiding the Blue Streaks to three Ohio Athletic Conference titles. Inducted into Hall of Fame Fall 2002.
Bob Mullin '88
For his work with the VASJ wrestling program as well as his work behind the scenes, setting him apart as a true Viking. Bob spent countless hours renovating the Tech Building and converting it into an athletic complex for our students. He has provided invaluable resources to help update various parts of the school building over the years. Beyond being a coach, Bob strives to instill the values of discipline, grace and hard work in his student-athletes. Inducted into Hall of Fame November 4, 2022.
James Myers '76
In recognizing an accomplished career and continued support of VASJ and ensuring its students have access to quality, Catholic education. Held a successful career at Petco as vice president and controller. Elected to the company’s board of directors and served as CEO for a dozen years before retiring in 2017. Former senior audit manager with the “Big Four” accounting firm KPMG, continues to serve on the boards of Jack in the Box, John Carroll University and Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute. Myers and his wife, Josie, honored Robertson’s memory with the Timothy W. Robertson Memorial Scholarship. The $100,000 endowed gift recognizes the drive for excellence still reflected in the students at VASJ today. “That inspires me to still want to provide assistance to VASJ in helping students find the financial means as they push themselves to achieve more.” Inducted into Hall of Fame November 8, 2018.
*Deceased