Archdiocese honors ‘distinguished alumni’

Archbishop Gregory Aymond, along with Dr. RaeNell Houston, superintendent of Catholic schools, presented plaques of recognition April 25 to 54 men and women identified by their alma maters as exemplars of the values taught in Catholic schools. Here is a glimpse of the 2023 Alumnae of the Year recipients, each of whom was selected by his or her respective elementary or high school. Biographical material and quotes were culled from each schools’ nomination documents:

Academy of Our Lady (the former Immaculata High): Salvatrice Montagnino Collins (’89), the institutional advancement director at Immaculate Conception Elementary School in Marrero, was honored by her high school alma mater for having made “great improvements and advancements because of her ideas and her help.”

Academy of the Sacred Heart: Kendall Goodier Hales (’92) is a physical therapist at Crane Rehab and a mother of two Sacred Heart students – Madison (’21) and Caroline (’26). “Kendall tirelessly gave back to the Sacred Heart community. Her service to the community goes above and beyond!”

Annunciation: Deidre Hughes Gibson (’72) is a member of several ministries at her church parish of Annunciation in Bogalusa. She leads the Stations of the Cross, Holy Week activities, CCD and organizes prayer circles, with a mission to help “anyone in need.” She also privately donates to help families in need at Annunciation School. “Her reverence and piety are simply remarkable.”

Archbishop Chapelle: Tricia McDonnell Lara (’98) is the director of revenue cycle operations at Ochsner. In addition to her primary career, Lara teaches in-person and remote business classes to both undergraduate and master’s level students. Lara was an active member of St. Philip Neri’s co-op board and currently serves on Archbishop Chapelle’s Alumnae Board and as chair of the high school’s Emerald Gala.

Archbishop Hannan: Scott McDougal (’94), the owner of Closets by Design, has been an active member of Archbishop Hannan’s community since he graduated from high school. McDougal and his wife Caryn (an Archbishop Hannan alumna) have served on their alma mater’s advisory board, donated built-in trophy displays in school hallways and serve as announcers at all home basketball games. The McDougals are the parents of two current Hannan students.

Archbishop Rummel: Robert F. Whitman Jr. (’69) has taught at Archbishop Rummel for 44 years. After Katrina, he helped create Youth Rebuilding New Orleans (YRNO), which was established as a nonprofit organization in 2007. Since then, YRNO staff and volunteers have continued to assist homeowners across our region when disaster strikes.

Ascension of Our Lord (AOL): Addie Vial Melancon (’95) has devoted her life to the school as a student, an attendee and counselor at its summer camps and as a second-grade teacher for many years. She has been named AOL’s new principal for 2023-24. “Not only has Ms. Addie Melancon given her heart and soul to AOL Catholic School, but she is also its heart and soul.”

Christian Brothers: Dr. Granville Morse (’84) is the medical director of hospital service lines at Ochsner and has also been a deputy coroner for Jefferson Parish since 2012. He has received many accolades over the years, including an award for outstanding resident and one for outstanding performance in emergency medicine. In 2012, Dr. Morse opened Lakeview Urgent Care, where he was also the medical director. He is the president of the Please Foundation, a local charity that provides mentoring and scholarships to gifted but socioeconomically disadvantaged children who wish to attend a New Orleans Catholic high school.

De La Salle: Tommy Eppling (’75) is an attorney and partner at the law firm of Staines, Eppling and Kenney. Eppling, who was recognized as “a tremendous supporter and advocate for De La Salle,” served as a member of the high school’s Board of Trustees from 2018-20 and as board chair from 2020-22.

Holy Cross High School: Joseph Spitale (’70) is president and CEO of Advantage Medical Professionals, a company of more than 1,400 employees that provides nurses to hospitals across the country and which is among the 100 largest employers in the state. He is a past president of the Louisiana Staffing Association and is also active in the association’s national level. Spitale’s community service work includes working with organizations to provide shelter and services to the homeless. He is also active in his home parish of St. Ann in Metairie. “Joe is a very dedicated family man and considers his family to be the thing of which he is most proud.”

Holy Name of Jesus: David Blamphin (’88) and his family are “ingrained in the fabric of Holy Name of Jesus School.” Blamphin was a student at Holy Name while his father was a faculty member and followed in his elder’s footsteps to become a Holy Name P.E. coach, athletic director and dean of students. His daughters are third-generation Holy Name students. Blamphin continues to serve on the school board and the “Foundations for the Future” capital campaign committee. “Holy Name of Jesus School knows that if it needs something done, calling David will produce a positive and fruitful outcome.”

Immaculate Conception: Dr. Mark Williams (’81), a former associate superintendent for Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New Orleans, recently became the superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Dr. Williams has also served Catholic schools as a state-certified teacher, coach, department chair, dean, assistant principal and state-certified principal.

Jesuit: Arthur D. Dupré (’04) is the president of Arete Scholars, which awards need-based K-12 scholarships and empowers parents to place their children in private schools that best suit their unique gifts and learning needs. Dupré was a teacher, coach, community service director and student media director at Jesuit High School in Tampa, Florida, for three years. His volunteer work has included being a counselor with Camp Challenge (for children battling cancer), a coach at St. Michael Special School in New Orleans and a junior board member for Boys Hope/Girls Hope.

Mary Queen of Peace: Amy Elizabeth Boraks (’08) was honored for outstanding contributions to our community as a television news producer at WDSU. Boraks was recently awarded an Emmy for her breaking news coverage of the Arabi Tornado of March 2022. “Amy is also a practicing Catholic instrumental in helping cultivate the young alumni base at Mary Queen of Peace.”

Mount Carmel Academy: Cheryl Schlotterer Cabes (’62) was hailed as an “outstanding model of service” both for her alma mater and in the wider community. Cabes’ service to Mount Carmel includes serving on her high school’s alumnae board, advisory council and a variety of committees. Her civic work includes being president of several organizations and chairing galas and other fundraisers. In recognition of Cabes’ support to causes throughout the greater New Orleans area, she received the St. Elizabeth’s Guild Volunteer Activist Award and was inducted into its hall of fame.

Our Lady of Lourdes (Slidell): Jean Glover (’56), a retired bookkeeper at Piper Flooring, is a lifelong parishioner of Our Lady of Lourdes. Glover worked first as a hairdresser before securing her bookkeeping job while raising two sons and two daughters. After retiring in 2006, she became an active member of the parish’s Altar Society and Hospitality Committee, in which she helps prepare the sanctuary for worship. “She has tirelessly supported numerous parish events and celebrations during the past 17 years.”

Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Belle Chasse): Hannah Bassett (’16) serves her elementary school alma mater as a pre-K teacher’s assistant. “She is caring and giving of herself both in her dedication to her church and also at her place of work. Hannah gives her all at work, and is even thinking of continuing her education in early childhood education. Hannah is a true inspiration!”

Our Lady of Prompt Succor (Westwego): Salesian Sister Theresa Khong (’06) studied at OLPS School in Westwego under the guidance of the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco. Later, she chose to belong to the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, who are known as the Salesian Sisters. “She is an independent thinker, a loving religious sister and a hard working Salesian educator. She is also an excellent leader because she knows the correct way to go and is willing to act as a guide for others to follow.”

Our Lady of Prompt Succor School (Chalmette): Cisco Gonzales (’09) – a licensed professional counselor – is a school counselor at Archbishop Rummel High School and the owner of Neutral Ground Counseling. Gonzales was recognized by his elementary school alma mater for being someone who “leads by example” and is always looking for opportunities to help others, especially those in need. “Cisco freely gives to others because he realizes the blessings he’s been given. Annually, in March, he manages the Louisiana Crawfish Festival in his home parish of St. Bernard. He makes sure that his elementary school is a beneficiary of his hard work.”

Our Lady of the Lake: Brandon Power (’08), who died in a tragic accident in March 2021, was honored posthumously by his elementary school. A 2013 graduate of St. Paul’s School in Covington, Power played on his high school’s first lacrosse team, coached by his father. He went on to earn a B.S. in industrial engineering from LSU, where he was an engineering ambassador in the university’s Ambassador Program. The following is an excerpt from Power’s obituary: “His enthusiasm for his school was unmatched, and he inspired many people by his love for LSU. He had a very successful career as an Hardware Quality Engineer II for Raytheon Technologies, living in McKinney, Texas, where he worked for the past three years and loved what he was doing. Brandon had a light that shined a little extra bright. He lived his life with wonder and enthusiasm. He loved with his heart wide open, thought with the full power of his mind, and explored the world with curiosity and excitement. He embodied the most authentic version of himself and along the way, he inspired so many others to do the same. Brandon enriched our lives, guided us through difficulties, rejoiced with us, and blessed each of us.” Power’s award was accepted by his parents.

Pope John Paul II: Dr. Andrew Pizza (’98) is head of emergency medicine at Slidell Memorial Hospital. “Not only is Dr. Pizza very generous with his time, talent and treasure to the PJPII High School community, but he has also done tremendous work in the Slidell community as well as statewide.” Dr. Pizza currently is spearheading the Safe Pathways to School effort encouraging state legislators to pass laws increasing student safety on school campuses.

Redeemer: Don Armelin (’90) is a more than 15-year member of the New Orleans Fire Department who serves as a firefighter, chief and first responder. “Don takes his job seriously and understands the importance of protecting and saving fellow citizens. Don also uses his talents to design and build homes as a licensed contractor. In his spare time, Don finds joy in restoring American muscle cars.”

Seton Academy: Dawn LaFargue Armelin (’93), a distinguished educator for more than 20 years at Catholic and public schools in Orleans and Jefferson parishes, currently teaches at Riverdale High School in Jefferson. “Dawn bonds with her students and colleagues naturally and encourages them to be trailblazers and to seek support when needed.”

Resurrection of Our Lord: Susan Peck (’75) was honored as “a dedicated and passionate teacher” who has been serving Resurrection of Our Lord students since the school reopened after Hurricane Katrina.

St. Paul’s School: Jeff Ramon (’08) is a St. Paul’s teacher and campus minister. “Jeff is committed to the Catholicity and Lasallian charism. He also perpetually brings students closer to their faith while encouraging service. He truly helps others understand the Five Core Principles through his servant leadership.”

St. Scholastica Academy: Stephanie Daigle (’82) is the owner of Merle Norman Cosmetics.

St. Pius X: Warren “Chip” Forstall (’66) graduated from the University of New Orleans in 1975 and received his law degree from Loyola University in 1979. He is admitted to practice in all Louisiana state courts and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Chip has been involved in thousands of cases over his 38 years of practicing law. However, what he is most proud of is continuing (his family’s) tradition as the third generation of Forstalls attend St. Pius X School.” Forstall’s son Jonathan accepted the award on his behalf.

St. Alphonsus: Kimberly Jackson (’79), a teacher at her elementary school alma mater for 18 years, “never misses an opportunity to brag about her years at St. Alphonsus School. Kimberly exemplifies what it means ‘to teach as Jesus did.’” In addition to teaching second graders, Jackson directs the school’s band and co-directs its Gospel choir. “Whenever former students visit St. Alphonsus School, they always ask to see Ms. Jackson. They are met with the same excitement that they remember from their school days in her classroom!”

St. Andrew the Apostle: Nicholas Code (’14), St. Andrew’s part-time technology coordinator, is a neuroscience student at Tulane University who ultimately plans to attend medical school. Code, known for his “superb dedication” to St. Andrew Parish and School, has helped the school advance in several areas, including upgrades to campus technology and assisting in the coordination and planning of enhanced campus security. An altar server for 10 years and a frequent master of ceremonies at Masses, Code also serves as president of the School Foundation Board and Parish Council.

St. Angela Merici: Lynn Gettys Plaisance (’72) taught at St. Angela Merici for 17 years – 13 of them as a third-grade teacher – before creating and launching the school’s art lab. Plaisance taught all grade levels in the art lab for four years until retiring from teaching. Since then, she began the campus’ Kindness Rocks Garden and recently began painting “Christening Shells” in celebration of parish baptisms. Plaisance’s parish work includes being part of the steering committee for St. Angela 50th anniversary celebration and teaching art in conjunction with Vacation Bible School. Her earlier school roles include being a room mother and Brownie and Girl Scout troop leader. “Lynn has been a strong supporter of campus growth and improvement throughout her years in the parish.”

St. Ann: Kevin Morris (’85) is an architect with Holly & Smith Architects. “Kevin Morris is an outstanding alumnus who contributes his time and talents to St. Ann Parish and School. His three sons have all graduated from St. Ann School; his wife, Kerri, is also a St. Ann alum and works in the early childhood program; and Kevin also volunteers as a music minister for the church. He is a member of the St. Louis Cathedral Architecture team, charged with restoring and preserving the historic landmark.

St. Anthony, Gretna: Charlotte Roussel (’60) is a long standing and active parishioner of St. Anthony Church who has served on the parish’s Advisory Council and Finance Committee. Roussel, St. Anthony’s Ladies’ Club president, also participates in Come Lord Jesus meetings with her fellow parishioners as a way to strengthen her spiritual growth.

St. Augustine: Stephen Joseph Young (’73), a valued member of St. Augustine’s staff for 16 years, currently teaches theology. Young, a graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana, was a member of the St. Augustine choir during his student days and has continued his love for singing as a veteran member of his church choir.

St. Benedict the Moor: Jalen Johnson (’11) is a senior at the University of Louisiana in Lafayette. Johnson plans to attend law school after graduation.

St. Benilde: Brian P. Drawe is an account manager at Southern Eagle. “His long-term commitment of outstanding and faithful service to both our church and school communities is an example for all.”

St. Catherine of Siena: William Henry Shane Jr. (’51), a successful businessman and philanthropist, co-founded Favrot and Shane and is one of the largest owners of multi-family residential real estate in Louisiana. He led the formation of the Jefferson Economic Development Commission and was one of the founding members of Greater New Orleans, Inc. He and his wife have donated artwork and funds to numerous organizations, museums and colleges, and have been involved in the hosting of hundreds of charitable and philanthropic events. Among his awards are Business Hall of Fame 2002 Junior Achievement Award; National Apartment Association 1989 Hall of Fame Award; and the “Jefferson First” Philanthropy Award.

St. Charles Borromeo: Christy Schexnayder (’75), a pharmacist at Ochsner, was hailed as the “epitome of a Christian role model” and a “pioneer” in her professional life. Schexnayder serves on numerous parish ministries and is also a generous volunteer at the school who accompanies students on annual educational trips around the country.

St. Charles Catholic (SCC): The husband-and-wife team of Nolan Louque (’82) and Angie Louque (’83) “have always strived to make SCC better, which in turn allows the students to excel.” Angie, SCC’s retired librarian and a coach for 22 years, still volunteers at the high school. Nolan, an owner of several successful businesses and a leader in the community, has dedicated his time to coaching and assisting when needed. “The Louques have donated greatly to not only the school renovations, but to the athletic program as well.”

St. Christopher: Nicholas P. Karl (’94) is the regional vice president of United Healthcare. Karl has selflessly given of his time to two local entities: as a board member of Second Harvest for 20 years, the last two as chairman of the board; and as a member of the Jefferson Parish Chamber of Commerce, where he served as chairman of the board three years ago. He currently sits on the board of directors.



St. Clement of Rome: Jennifer Van Vrancken (’85) is an attorney, an award-winning television journalist and public servant. Van Vrancken has served as COO for Jefferson Parish and is currently in her second term as the Jefferson Parish councilwoman for District 5. Her accolades include being named “Legislator of the Year” by the Alliance for Good Government. “Jennifer is a fantastic role model, exhibiting a strong work ethic with dedication, passion and enthusiasm.”

St. Cletus: Jennifer Rivere Ricks (’99) was recognized for her teaching excellence and her reputation at St. Cletus as an educator who “teaches from her heart.” Ricks “truly loves all of her students and shares her love of learning each and every day.”

St. Dominic: Michael Lynn (’99) “has made education his career, forming young men into responsible, Catholic members of our community for the future.” Lynn works as a teacher and administrator at Brother Martin High School and volunteers at St. Dominic Elementary School as a School Board member and committee project helper.

St. Edward the Confessor: Randal John Bonura (’91), a civil engineer, is an active parishioner who has served as president of the St. Edward Association of Men and a key contributor to the success of the parish’s annual Cochon de Lait. He has two children currently enrolled at St. Edward “and is a true gentleman who serves as a role model for Catholic fathers.”

St. Francis Xavier: Andre G. Coudrain (’72) was recognized as a “brilliant and a very well-respected” attorney with the law firm of Cashe Coudrain & Bass Attorneys at Law. Coudrain has served in multiple capacities – from board member to lector – at Holy Ghost Church in Hammond, and served for many years on the school board serving all Catholic schools in the Diocese of Baton Rouge. His contributions to the community also include being a “huge promoter” of the Louisiana Special Olympics.

St. Joan of Arc, LaPlace: Jeanne Serven (’04) is currently employed by St. Joan of Arc and St. John Parish schools as a teacher of Title 1 students, helping those with the greatest need in ELA and math in grade K-7. Serven also teaches sixth-grade math and has taught various subjects and grade levels at St. Joan of Arc. “She is flexible and always willing to help out where needed.”

St. Katharine Drexel Prep (formerly Xavier Preparatory High School): Judge Edwin A. Lombard (’64) is a retired judge from the Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal and the founder of the African-American Congress at Tulane University, which has been serving African-American students at Tulane for more than 40 years. Judge Lombard’s contributions to his community include serving as president of the Algiers-Fischer Community Organization; a board member of the New Orleans Legal Assistance Corporation; a board Member of TOTAL Community Action, Inc.; and working with health and dental clinics in the Algiers-Fisher community. Judge Lombard has been involved in writing laws and procedures for historic events such as the Dayton Peace Accord of 1995 (which ended the war in Bosnia), the Indonesian presidential election and local elections in South Africa.

St. Leo the Great: Barret Rey (’88) is a former college baseball coach who has taught and coached at St. Augustine High School since 2017. Rey, a four-year pitching letterman for the Southern University Jaguars, became a full-time Jaguars coaching assistant upon receiving his graduate degree from Southern. He went on to serve as head baseball coach of the Grambling State Tigers (2007-09) and the Alcorn State Braves (2010-15). Rey, who was named SWAC Coach of the Year in 2011, was instrumental in recruiting and coaching 22 future draft picks.

St. Mary’s Dominican: Michelle Marcotte Macicek (’99) is director of marriage and family life at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Metairie and a member of her parish’s leadership team. Macicek and her husband Scott, the parents of six children, have been mentoring engaged couples in marriage prep for the last five years. Her parish work also includes coordinating monthly women’s adoration nights, music ministry and coordinating the “Beloved” women’s ministry. Macicek, who has also taught middle school religion and held the role of CRE, recently piloted a Bible study for middle-school girls called “Blaze,” led by Dominican students.

St. Mary’s Academy: Darlene Hutchison (’76) has worked at St. Mary’s Academy for 17 years as teacher and been a constant supporter of all projects and activities.

St. Matthew the Apostle: Ralph Brandt (’74) is an attorney and the president of the Jefferson Parish School Board. Brandt, an active parishioner, is a Grand Knight of the St. Matthew KC and a past member of archdiocesan school board.

St. Peter, Covington: Jennifer Baham (’89) is a St. Peter teacher whose career has included teaching religion to first through third graders and social studies to fourth and fifth graders. She currently teaches P.E. As a member of St. Peter Parish, Baham, who serves on St. Peter’s Pastoral Council, has been an integral part of ministries including Bible studies, marriage prep, Meals Ministry and CYO sports.

St. Rita, Harahan: Paige Mosley (’99) is the business manager at St. Rita School. She also volunteers on the Home & School Board and Fall Fest Committee.

Ursuline Academy: Dr. Margarita R. Curtis (’69), now retired, served as Ursuline’s interim president during the 2020-21 school year. For 20 years she served as a faculty member, department chair and dean of studies at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, where she was appointed to the Francis C. Robertson Bicentennial Instructorship, and subsequently, as the David M. Underwood Foundation Chair. In 2006, Dr. Curtis was appointed head of school of Deerfield Academy in Deerfield, Massachusetts. Upon her retirement in 2019, she was awarded the Deerfield Medal, the highest honor conferred by the institution. She has been a chair or a member of school accreditation visiting committees, president of the Eight Schools Association (a group of private college-prep schools in the Northeast), and a trustee of School Year Abroad and Global Connections. She was recently appointed to the Rostro de Cristo Board and also sits on the Board of Trustees of Los Nogales School in Bogotá, Colombia.

Visitation of Our Lady: Deacon Cuong Tran (’12) is a transitional deacon for the Archdiocese of New Orleans who is anticipating ordination to the priesthood in 2024. “His devotion to his faith is a testament to his family and foundation in Catholic education. Cuong’s commitment to the priesthood has been his focus since childhood.”