Wall of Fame

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The MMI Wall of Fame was established in 2005 to honor alumni, past faculty and staff, volunteers and past board members who have distinguished themselves in one of four categories: Athletic Achievement, Community Service, Service to MMI and Professional Achievement.

The MMI Wall of Fame Selection Committee is currently seeking nominations for the Wall of Fame Class of 2025. The Selection Committee includes MMI’s Head of School, one member of the Board of Directors, two alumni representatives, the MMI Athletic Director, the MMI Director of Advancement, and one at-large member. Nominations are sought for the Wall of Fame in the following categories: Athletic Achievement, Community Service, Service to MMI, and Professional Achievement. Specific criteria for each category are listed on the nomination form. Nominations are accepted from all sources and are accepted posthumously. MMI teams may also be nominated in the Athletic Achievement category. New MMI Wall of Fame inductees will be announced in the late spring of 2025 and the 17th Annual Wall of Fame Awards Dinner will be held at the school as part of Alumni Weekend 2025.

In order to nominate a person for consideration, please download and complete the Wall of Fame nomination form and return the completed nomination packet to Kim McNulty, Director of Advancement, MMI Preparatory School, 154 Centre Street, Freeland, PA 18224 or via email to kmcnulty@mmiprep.org. Please return all nominations no later than March 1, 2025.

Members of the MMI Wall of Fame

Athletic Achievement:

Atty. Denis V. Brenan ’55

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Attorney Denis Brenan ‘55 was a basketball standout at both MMI and Lehigh University. In his senior year at MMI, he was the top scorer in the region with 494 points and a 19.8 points per game average. Atty. Brenan was co-captain of the MMI basketball team that was 19-6 and won the Freeland Conference Championship in 1955. He was also a member of the MMI baseball team and was inducted into the Anthracite Sports Hall of Fame in 1990. At Lehigh University, he was captain of the basketball team. In addition to his...

Mr. Richard L. Barletta ’74

Rick Barletta was a member of MMI’s State Champion, District 11 Basketball Champion, and Anthracite League Champion teams of 1973. After graduation, he attended Lycoming College, where he earned a varsity letter in tennis. He was a math teacher at Pottstown High School, where he coached the boys’ and girls’ tennis teams, and girls’ basketball team, which won two Ches-­Mont League championships and two District 1 AA championships, and had two appearances in the State Final Four. In 1984, he began coaching tennis at West Hazleton High School, where his teams won three Anthracite League championships. In 1985, his Kirby...

Dr. Keith G. Brazzo ‘90

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Dr. Keith Brazzo ‘90 played basketball, baseball and tennis at MMI, particularly excelling on the basketball court. During his senior year, Dr. Brazzo scored 705 points in 21 games for a 33.6 average. He scored a total of 1,570 points at MMI, placing him third on the school’s all-time scoring list. He was twice named to the All-State Class AAA team and was the Standard-Speaker Player of the Year in his senior year. He was captain of the basketball team, captain of the baseball team and Anthracite League tennis champion in his senior year...

Mr. Ryan J. Breznak ’88

Wall of Fame Class of 2015 Ryan J. Breznak ’88 helped MMI make headlines as a two-sport athlete. He was a four-year starter on the boy’s basketball team and led the Hazleton area in scoring during the 1986-87 season. He finished his career with 1,167 career points. In his senior year, Mr. Breznak posted a 5-3 pitching record with the baseball team and helped guide the Preppers to their first PIAA playoff appearance. He batted .319 as a senior and .372 as a junior. Mr. Breznak was invited to try out for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1988 and New York...

Mr. Tyler J. Breznitsky ‘09

Wall of Fame Class of 2021 Tyler Breznitsky ’09 is the most prolific scorer in MMI boys’ basketball history, ranking as the School’s all-time leader with 1,900 points after averaging 21 points per game over his four-year career as a Prepper. As a freshman guard for MMI Head Coach Joe Flanagan, he led the 2005-2006 Wyoming Valley Conference with 19 points per game, outscoring many seniors at schools including Hazleton Area, Crestwood, and G.A.R. He surpassed the 1,000-point career mark as a junior and then broke the MMI all-time scoring record as a senior with 36 points in a January...

Mr. Robert J. Della Croce ’82

Wall of Fame Class of 2013 Mr. Robert Della Croce was a standout player during his basketball career at MMI and still remains third on MMI’s all-time high-scoring list with a total of 1,631 points. During his senior year, the 1981-82 season, he led the Anthracite League and the region in scoring. He also set a single-game record of 45 points in his senior year in a home game against Weatherly. He was a member of the basketball team all four years of high school and was referred to with pride as the “nation’s leading scorer” in the 1982 Minamek....

Mr. Walter F. Dryfoos ‘59

Wall of Fame Class of 2012 Mr. Walter F. Dryfoos ‘59 was the center for the MMI Preppers basketball team in the late 1950s. His physical presence and drive to win made him a respected presence throughout the Anthracite League. “One of the taller members of the class, Walt has used his height to full advantage on the basketball court,” noted the Minamek, MMI’s yearbook. Dryfoos set a scoring record in a season with 694 points, as the Preppers went 17-10. He also set a record for the greatest number of points in a game, with 47 points in a...

Mr. Shawn P. Gallagher ’84

Wall of Fame Class of 2014 Mr. Shawn Gallagher was a star on MMI’s basketball team during his four-year basketball career at the school from 1980-84, which included serving as team captain. He scored 1,109 career points, ranking 10th all-time, with his 1,000th point coming during a home game against Shamokin Lourdes, and grabbed 658 rebounds. As a senior, he averaged 25.7 points, 14 rebounds, and five blocks per game, scoring 45 percent of MMI’s total points during his senior year. He was named the Most Valuable Player that year. His career highs were 44 points and 28 rebounds. Mr....

Mr. Albert Goedecke ’45

Wall of Fame Class of 2008 Mr. Albert Goedecke ‘45 played varsity basketball at MMI and East Stroudsburg University State Teachers College and semi-pro basketball with a Stroudsburg Area team. Coach Goedecke returned to MMI as boys basketball coach and physical education teacher in 1952. As MMI Boys Basketball Coach from 1952 to 1964, Coach Goedecke consistently coached teams that competed in playoff games in the Anthracite League compiling a record of 166 wins and 121 losses. In 1956, the Preppers were 21-4 and won the Anthracite League Championship. In addition, his teams won ten Freeland Conference crowns. He was...

Mr. John E. Hollis ’64

Wall of Fame Class of 2016 Mr. John E. Hollis ’64 was a two-sport athlete during his four years at MMI and was selected to the Fifth Team All-State in basketball in 1964. He ranks seventh all-time in scoring at MMI with 1,311 total points, including four points in MMI’s memorable 7-5 win over West Hazleton. He ended his senior baseball season with Best ERA, Best Pitcher and Team MVP accolades. Mr. Hollis attended Bloomsburg University, where he competed on both the basketball and baseball teams. He was previously inducted to the Wall of Fame in 2010 as part of...

Mr. Jake Kislan ’56

Wall of Fame Class of 2007 Mr. Jake Kislan ’56 was a superior athlete at MMI in both baseball and basketball for four years. In his senior year, he was selected as the region’s top basketball guard and helped lead the Preppers to the Anthracite League Championship with a 21-4 record. After graduation, he played semi-professional baseball and was scouted by the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies. He played for the Jeddo Stars, the premier area amateur baseball team, and later played in several fast-pitch softball leagues in the region. Mr. Kislan is the founder of the American Softball...

Mr. James Lundy ’73

Wall of Fame Class of 2009 Mr. James Lundy ’73 held the all-time scoring record on the MMI Boys Basketball team with a total of 1,644 points for 36 years. The majority of 1,000 point scorers hit the 1,000 mark in their senior year of the sport but Mr. Lundy hit that mark in his junior year. In his senior year, He was named Most Valuable Player of the basketball team and helped take the team to the Class C State Championship by scoring 31 points in the title game. Mr. Lundy’s 616 total points in the 1972-1973 season guided...

Mr. Stephen A. Makuta ’69

Wall of Fame Class of 2017 Stephen A. Makuta ’69 played four years of basketball and three years of golf at MMI. He scored 1,110 career points during his tenure on the MMI basketball squad. He was named both team captain and MVP during his senior year and was named the Anthracite League Scoring Champion and the Regional Scoring Leader, averaging 25.5 points per game. Both the 1967-68 and 1968-69 teams were awarded the Sportsmanship Award, given annually by the Hazleton Chapter of Basketball Officials. Mr. Makuta was also the captain of the golf team. The golf program at MMI...

Mr. Lewis J. Matuella ’77

Wall of Fame Class of 2016 Mr. Lewis J. Matuella ’77 was an award-winning three-sport athlete during his playing days at MMI. He lettered all four years in basketball and baseball and two years in golf. He was MMI team MVP in basketball and baseball twice, was named to the Hughie McGeehan League All-Star baseball team in 1975 and 1977 and was selected to the WAZL Coaches All-Star Basketball team in 1977. Mr.Matuella ranks 14th all-time in scoring in basketball with 1,002 points. He averaged 26.2 points per game in his senior season and was ranked as the third-leading scorer...

Mary Beth Mischissin Broadt ’88

Mary Beth Mischissin Broadt holds the MMI record for highest average by a member of the girls’ bowling team, and led the girls to the only varsity Anthracite League Bowling League Championship ever won (boys and girls) by the Preppers. In 1984, as an eighth-grader, she was a member of the girls’ varsity team and averaged 130. In 1985, she led the varsity girls in average and bowled the high game and high two-game series and was team MVP. In 1986, she led the girls in all categories with her 144 average and was once again selected as MVP. The...

Mr. John Timko ’74

Wall of Fame Class of 2013 Dr. John Timko ’74 was a striking basketball player at MMI, playing all four years of his high school career. During his time on the team, he scored 1,218 points. He was the second-leading scorer on the Preppers’ 1972-1973 state championship team and notched 546 points that season. He was the team’s leading rebounder and best inside player that season and received honorable mention recognition on the United Press International Class C All-State Team. In the semifinal game of the season, he scored the clinching basket and scored double figures; in the final game,...

Dr. Jodi Washinsky Lenko ’99

Wall of Fame Class of 2011 Dr. Jodi Washinsky Lenko ’99 finished her MMI basketball career as the first female to score 1,000 points. Her record still holds today with her career total of 1,104 points. From the time she began playing basketball at MMI in seventh grade, she was one of her team’s leaders. She led her team in scoring for the season in seventh grade and continued to prove irreplaceable to the team in eighth grade, especially during one game in which she contributed 27 of the team’s 49 points in a double-overtime tournament championship win. After accomplishments...

Mr. Michael Watahovich ’61

Wall of Fame Class of 2010 Mr. Michael Watahovich ‘61 played on the MMI Boys Basketball team for three years, and led the region in scoring for two of those years, in 1960 and 1961. Mr. Watahovich also broke the MMI Basketball all-time scoring record with 1,445 career points. In addition to his skills on the basketball court, he led the MMI Baseball team on the field for three years. In regional baseball, he served as catcher for the 1958 Valley Babe Ruth Baseball Team which competed in the Babe Ruth World Series Championship in Stockton, California. In 1968, Mr....

Mr. Wilson L. Zehner ’81

Wall of Fame Class of 2017 Wilson L. Zehner ’81 competed at MMI as a member of the golf, bowling, basketball and baseball teams. He was named MVP of the golf team three times and helped the team to a 44-6 record over his four years on the team. During his junior year, Mr. Zehner led the golf team to an undefeated season and the Anthracite League Championship after averaging a 79 during the season. He was second at the District 11 Tournament and qualified for States.During his senior golf season, he helped the team to their second consecutive Anthracite...

The 1973 Boys Basketball Team

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 What began as a typical basketball season at MMI in December of 1972 ended with one of the most remarkable athletic achievements in school history – a Class C State Championship for MMI’s boys’ basketball team. While several team members excelled with individual achievements (1,000 point club members Jim Lundy, John Timko and Joe Feno), it was the unique character and spirit of the team and its coaches, Walter Greshko and Anthony Cusat, that led to this tremendous achievement and captured the interest and excitement of sports fans throughout the region. The Preppers won...

The 1964 Boys Basketball Team

Wall of Fame Class of 2010 The 1964 Boys Basketball stunned the regional sports world with their intense 7 to 5 victory over West Hazleton. West Hazleton was undefeated and had tied the state record of 62 consecutive league victories. In fact, the Wildcats had not lost a league game since 1959 and now were on the verge of a new record, until they faced the Preppers. The two teams were tied for first place in the Anthracite League at one time in the season and both were accustomed to high-scoring games. MMI and West Hazleton mutually claimed a number...

The 1993 Golf Team

Wall of Fame Class of 2018 The 1993 golf team was undefeated in regular season play in the Schuylkill League with a 13-0 record. They won the Northern Division, but fell short in the Schuylkill League Golf Championship to Lourdes Regional. The 1993 undefeated team members included: Philip P. Benyo ’95, Dr. Brian W. Coyle ’94, Ryan P. Flood ’94, Mark F. Katchur ’95, Dr. Craig S. Kenesky ’96, Jim Rakshys, Joseph R. Rebarchak ’95, John J. Slyconish II ’95, Brian Street, and Michael A. Washinsky ’97. The team was coached by retired faculty member Anthony J. Gennaro. The Preppers...

The 2009 Varsity Girls Volleyball Team

Wall of Fame Class of 2021 The 2009 Varsity Girls Volleyball Team made MMI history when they became the first, and to this day still only, Prepper girls’ team to win a District 2 Single A Championship. The only small school Single A team in the Wyoming Valley Conference, MMI beat much larger AAAA, AAA, and AA schools such as Wyoming Valley West and Hazleton Area High School to earn an overall 12-8 overall record. As a result of their conference play and competitiveness, the squad qualified for the District 2 A play-offs for the first time since the program’s...

Service to MMI:

Mrs. Margaret Boyle

Wall of Fame Class of 2013 Mrs. Marge Boyle devoted 31 years to MMI Preparatory School, working as secretary to the president from 1977 until her retirement in 2008. Mrs. Boyle was known for her dedication to the school and students and was in the office each morning by 6:30 am. She had an excellent rapport with students, faculty, and staff, all of whom knew they could depend on her to support them however she could.  Always a friendly face in the office, Mrs. Boyle was known for helping students have a positive experience at MMI and feel confident in...

Mr. William R. Bray ’29

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Mr. William R. Bray, Principal of MMI from 1902 to 1907 and from 1908 to 1933, firmly established MMI as an outstanding academic institution. Mr. Bray taught mathematics in addition to being the sole administrator at the school. He was the first principal in the newly constructed building on Centre Street in Freeland. During his tenure, the President’s home, the laboratory and wood shop and the gymnasium were added to accommodate the expanding student population. New courses were also added to the curriculum and additional college scholarships were secured. Known to his students as...

Mr. Lambert E. Broad

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Mr. Lambert E. Broad, described as a visionary leader interested in his fellow man, served as MMI President from 1934 to 1973. He assumed the school presidency at a time when enrollment was down because of the Depression and was responsible for reversing this trend and building a strong academic program. One of Mr. Broad’s most notable achievements was MMI’s first Middle States Accreditation. He directed the reconstruction and expansion of MMI following the 1964 fire and led the fundraising campaign that was required to rebuild the Old Main building. MMI also became a...

Mr. Charles T. Butler

Wall of Fame Class of 2007 Mr. Charles T. Butler had a long and significant association with MMI as a teacher, board member, volunteer leader and benefactor. His direct involvement began in the 1960s when he served as mathematics instructor and substitute teacher. From 1969 to 1986, Mr. Butler served on the MMI Board and was chairman from 1976 to 1978. In his own quiet and deliberate way, he spearheaded the move to add seventh and eighth grade and was instrumental in bringing computer technology to MMI. In recognition of his contributions, the Board of Directors proclaimed Mr. Butler the...

Mr. Dennis P. Clarke

Wall of Fame Class of 2017 Dennis P. Clarke taught at MMI for 36 years from September of 1979 to May of 2016. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from King’s College in 1976 and later earned a master’s degree in English from Wilkes University. Mr. Clarke was just the third full-time Spanish teacher in MMI’s history. He also taught speech class and helped MMI transition from its annual speech tournament to a Model United Nations program and eventually to the Mock Trial Club. MMI had its first Mock Trial competition in 1987 and advanced to the state...

Mr. Weld Coxe ’46

Wall of Fame Class of 2007 Mr. Weld Coxe ’46 was one of MMI’s most ardent supporters and loyal alumni. As a great-great-nephew of MMI Founder Eckley B. Coxe, he served as the primary contact between MMI and the Coxe Family. For more than four decades, Mr. Coxe stressed to family members the importance of the Coxe legacy to MMI. He was a longtime MMI Board Member and actively participated and supported all of MMI’s annual and capital campaigns over the years. In addition to his involvement with his alma mater, Mr. Coxe enjoyed a distinguished career as a management...

Mr. Anthony R. Cusat

Wall of Fame Class of 2023 After nearly 50 years of teaching math at MMI, Mr. Anthony Cusat retired in the spring of 2021. Anthony earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from King’s College. He began teaching at MMI on September 1, 1972 and, at the time of his retirement, was MMI’s longest-tenured faculty member. In addition to teaching math, Anthony also served as the Dean of Students for 19 years from 1987-2006. Not only did he share his knowledge and insight into mathematics with multiple generations of MMI students, he was also involved as an advisor or coach for...

Mr. James Dei Tos

Wall of Fame Class of 2011 For nearly 50 years and under four presidents at MMI, Mr. James Dei Tos volunteered his services by performing numerous masonry, concrete and handyman jobs at the school. MMI and its leaders knew they could count on Mr. Dei Tos for planned projects as well as the occasional emergency. He built the concrete steps outside Old Main and also did the brick work for many windows in Old Main. Other tasks he undertook include pumping water from the old MMI gymnasium during flooding; fixing a leaking Old Main steeple; digging the trench in the...

Mr. Simon Faltz

Wall of Fame Class of 2009 Mr. Simon Faltz was a native of Danzig, Poland where he attended German elementary and Polish high schools. The Faltz family immigrated to Trinidad in British West Indies where he graduated from the Queen’s Royal High School. Following World War II, Mr. Faltz came to the United States and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wilkes University and a Master’s degree from Bucknell University. Mr. Faltz accepted a teaching position at MMI in 1959 and taught German, World History and Advanced Placement European History until his retirement in 1987. He was much beloved...

Mr. William Flood

Wall of Fame Class of 2010 Mr. William Flood has been a longtime advocate and close friend to MMI. As a member of the MMI Board of Directors from 1981 to 1992, Mr. Flood was a crucial component to many committees devoted to the success and endurance of MMI. He served as chair of a number of committees and was elected Chairman of the Board for two terms, beginning in 1989. Mr. Flood and his wife, Jody, were dedicated to introducing local families to the strengths and advantage an MMI education provides for its students, even to the extent of...

Mrs. Thelma Fatula Gallagher

Wall of Fame Class of 2010 Mrs. Thelma Gallagher served MMI as a member of the staff for 36 years. Mrs. Gallagher served as secretary to President Lambert Broad, the school’s only secretary, from 1957 to 1972. After taking time away to start her family, Mrs. Gallagher returned to the administrative office of MMI in 1978 until her retirement in 1999. She is remembered for her kindness and invaluable assistance to the school, and many female alumni from the 1970’s recall her thoughtfulness and compassion during the school’s transition to a co-educational institution. The 1969 Minamek accounts to her kindheartedness:...

Mr. Anthony J. Gennaro

Wall of Fame Class of 2013 Mr. Anthony J. Gennaro spent 32 years at MMI, inspiring a love of the sciences in many students, some of whom went on to become doctors, scientists, or other professionals in the medical and scientific fields. He taught biology, environmental science, anatomy and physiology, Advanced Placement biology, and earth and life science at MMI from 1978 to 2010. For many students, Mr. Gennaro’s AP biology course was their first college-level class. He challenged and encouraged his students, who found themselves better prepared when they entered college. Mr. Gennaro also served as adviser to a...

Atty. Henry A. Giuliani

Wall of Fame Class of 2009 Atty. Henry A. Giuliani was a long time supporter and close friend of MMI, serving on the MMI Board of Directors and assisting in all of MMI’s major fundraising efforts during the past 30 years. Having served on the Board from 1979 to 1987, Atty. Giuliani was a pivotal player on many committees dedicated to the success and survival of MMI. He served terms as both Vice Chairman and Chairman of MMI’s Board. Atty. Giuliani continued to support MMI with service on the Honorary Board of Directors, serving as Chair of the Honorary Board...

Mr. Edgar A. Gower, Sr.

Wall of Fame Class of 2007 Mr. Edgar A. Gower, Sr., was a dedicated mathematics teacher at MMI from 1956 to 1993. He genuinely enjoyed teaching at MMI and was always proud of his students and their achievements. During his 37-year tenure, Mr. Gower served as Math Department chairman, baseball coach and class advisor. He was also moderator of various clubs including the Mathematics Club and the Mechanical Drawing Club. Mr. Gower encouraged his students to enter numerous math competitions and helped prepare them for success resulting in several championship teams. An excerpt from the 1991 Minamek addressed the impact...

Mr. Walter D. Haentjens ’39

Wall of Fame Class of 2007 Mr. Walter D. Haentjens ’39 was a devoted alumnus, friend and patron of MMI for more than six decades. He gave freely of his time and talent to improve the education provided to MMI students. He served as Alumni Director in the 1950s and as an MMI Board Member from 1963 to 1971. A key figure in MMI’s annual fundraising efforts and capital campaigns, Mr. Haentjens established the Barrett, Haentjens and Company Scholarship at MMI. He was also a valued resource regarding the operation of the MMI physical plant who often quietly underwrote necessary...

Mr. Daniel Kostick ’54

Wall of Fame Class of 2010 Mr. Daniel Kostick ’54 has supported his alma mater in various capacities over the last thirty-five years. As an active Board member from 1981 until 1989, Mr. Kostick served on a number of board committees and was particularly instrumental on the board’s fundraising committee. During his tenure, the MMI Board adopted named scholarships to assist the families of students in financial need. Mr. Kostick was a strong supporter of this critical move for the school, and with his wife Janet, led by example to establish The Michael and Mary Kostick Endowed Scholarship in memory...

Mr. Edward A. Kushma ’62

Wall of Fame Class of 2023 Edward embodies what it means to live a life in service, and we at MMI are truly grateful that Ed chose to devote most of his time to bettering our school and inspiring the next generation of Preppers. For over 20 years, Ed volunteered to serve as a member of MMI’s Board of Directors (1999-2008, 2010-2022). He actively served as the Board’s Secretary from 2012 to 2016 as well as participated in numerous committees throughout his tenure. He was instrumental in helping to form the Wall of Fame, which will now bear his name....

Atty. Albert F. Maier Jr.

Wall of Fame Class of 2015 Atty. Albert F. “Whitey” Maier Jr. served on the MMI Board of Directors from 1987-1997, was the chairman from 1993-1995, and now holds a position on MMI’s Honorary Board. Atty. Maier is a 1967 graduate of Bucknell University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. He graduated from Duquesne Law School with a jurus doctor in 1970 and immediately went to work as a patent attorney for Alcoa, where he was employed for two years. He opened his own practice in Freeland in 1972. His pro bono service to MMI has saved the...

Atty. Edward (Ned) McNelis

Wall of Fame Class of 2021 Ned McNelis was a fixture in the MMI Department of Athletics, serving as a volunteer assistant coach for 12 years between 2004-2010 and 2015-2021. From 2004-2005, Ned worked with the Preppers mid-school boys’ basketball team under Head Coach Tony Kiddish. Between 2006-2010 he was a volunteer assistant for the boys’ varsity basketball team under Head Coach Joe Flanagan and for the baseball team guided by Head Coach Emmitt Thomas. During that time, he also helped out with the girls’ mid-school basketball team. After a quick break, Ned returned to action at MMI from 2015-2021....

Mr. Nicholas Nemesh

Wall of Fame Class of 2008 Mr. Nicholas Nemesh served as an English teacher at MMI from 1958 until his retirement in 1991. He also taught Latin and Typing. Mr. Nemesh was much beloved by his students and colleagues for his intellect and wit and he ensured that his students graduated with excellent communication skills. Mr. Nemesh was known for offering “collegiate level” English courses providing his students with an excellent foundation in the essentials of grammar and theme writing. He is also remembered for his wonderful sense of humor. He served as adviser to the school newspaper, MMI Flashes,...

Mr. Joseph G. Rudawski

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Mr. Joseph G. Rudawski is the longest-serving faculty or administrator in MMI’s history, having devoted more than 40 years of exemplary service to the school. Mr. Rudawski began his career at MMI as a faculty member in 1964 and also served as dean of students and guidance counselor. He became President of MMI in 1973 and served in that capacity until 2001. Under his leadership, MMI’s endowment has grown to more than $17 million. He led MMI’s largest capital campaign raising nearly $10 million and secured the largest bequest in MMI’s history. Mr. Rudawski...

Mr. William K. Rudewick ‘42

Wall of Fame Class of 2012 Mr. William K. Rudewick ’42 served as assistant to the president at MMI from 1975 to 1987. Prior to returning to MMI, he served in the U.S. Air Force, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. Throughout his life, he provided distinguished service to his country and the school that he loved. As assistant to the president, he was responsible for overseeing the faculty, scheduling, co-curricular activities, and discipline. He planned a variety of events, including 1979’s Centennial Celebration and the first Homecoming celebration, which is now an annual event. He also organized sports...

Mr. Michael P. Scarlato

Wall of Fame Class of 2023 For more than three decades, MMI has been asecond home for Michael Scarlato who taughtAmerican History to students from 7th through12th grades. After a serious health scare in 2020,he announced that he was retiring at the end ofthe 2021 school year to spend more time with hiswife, Tina, and sons, Michael (33) and Mario (29). He isstill engaged with the school though, serving as a substitute teacherduring the 2021-22 and 2022-23 academic years. “There wasn’t a single day that the alarm went off at 5:30 in the morningand I didn’t want to be here...

Mr. Samuel Schaeffer

Wall of Fame Class of 2010 Mr. Samuel Schaeffer, one of MMI’s longest-serving faculty members, served as an English, Social Studies, and History from 1968 until his retirement in 2006. Mr. Schaeffer was much beloved by his students and colleagues and is remembered for his enthusiasm for teaching and his sense of humor. He was also known for his organization, and imparted its importance through his lesson plans and lectures to hundreds of students, guiding them in their studies and research. Throughout his time at MMI, Mr. Schaeffer also served as Academic Dean, advisor to the Minamek, the school yearbook,...

Dr. William A. Shergalis ’58

Wall of Fame Class of 2008 Dr. William A. Shergalis ‘58 is the first alumnus to serve as President of MMI. As president from 2001 to 2008, Dr. Shergalis was responsible for enhancements to the curriculum and the addition of a second section of 6th grade and a third section of 9th grade. He was instrumental in developing a comprehensive strategic plan for the school, reorganizing the school’s administrative staff, and expanding the Athletic Program with the addition of girls’ volleyball, boys’ and girls’ soccer, and junior high softball. Prior to becoming MMI President, Dr. Shergalis was a member of...

Dr. David Stiller ‘61

Wall of Fame Class of 2012 Dr. David Stiller ’61 spent nearly 30 years on the faculty of his alma mater before retiring in 2007. As head of the science department 1978-2007, he taught subjects including chemistry and physical science and served as the adviser to a myriad of clubs. He was devoted to his students and spent countless hours on evenings and weekends tutoring students, preparing them for the Advanced Placement Chemistry Exam, leading walks through the woods, and more.  Years ago, before the Internet, Stiller participated in the affectionately termed “traveling road show,” when he, Anthony Gennaro, and...

Mr. Andrew J. Stofan ’22

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Unforgettable, demanding, inspirational – these words have all been used to describe Professor Andrew J. Stofan ‘22. A gentleman of great integrity and character, Mr. Stofan was MMI’s longest-serving faculty member. As a student at MMI, Mr. Stofan was valedictorian of his class and received the Scholarship Prize for Math. As a faculty member, he taught math, German and Latin full-time from 1927 until 1964, and served as a math instructor part-time for a few additional years. He also served as dramatics coach, director and stage manager of MMI’s “all-male” school plays and as...

Mr. Emmett J. Thomas

Wall of Fame Class of 2023 Emmett Thomas served as coach of the MMl Boys Baseball Team from 2000 until 2015, leading them to a district title in 2014. His tough, but caring personality helped mold his players into successful human beings while still encouraging them to have fun and enjoy playing the “kids’ game” while they had the chance. To encourage his players and instill a positive mindset, he would tell them, “Everyone you know can enjoy winning, but you have to learn to hate losing.” He is also famous among his friends and former players for his ”Emmett-isms,”...

Dr. David S. Wagner

Wall of Fame Class of 2014 Dr. David Wagner, a prominent Hazleton-area dentist, was part of the MMI Board of Directors from 1972 to 1983, serving as board chairman from 1978 to 1980. He was also a charter member of MMI’s Honorary Board of Directors, formed in 1996. Dr. Wagner passed away in February 2013. He was an ardent supporter of MMI and the school, which made many strides under his leadership. It was during his time on the board that MMI began offering seventh and eighth grades in 1977. He held the respect of other board members who had...

Community Service:

Dr. James Andriole ’76

Wall of Fame Class of 2010 Dr. James Andriole ‘76 is a Florida medical practitioner and compassionate community activist who effectively combines his administrative business roles with a dedication to the underserved. Dr. Andriole received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Belmont Abbey College and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He sustained a traumatic spinal cord injury while saving the life of another that resulted in paraplegia. Dr. Andriole has a passion for flying in his personal aircraft designed with hand controls, and in recent years, has used his love of flying...

Mrs. Debbie L. Brenner Walko ’79

Debbie L. Brenner Walko volunteered for numerous years at Drums Elementary/Middle School as Reflections chairperson, Science Fair coordinator and judge, homeroom mom, field trip volunteer, lunch room volunteer, reading programs assistant, and PTA fundraiser chairperson, and volunteer. She serves as President of the Board of Directors at the Agudas Israel Synagogue (AIS) and was a former Vice President and Secretary. She is a Jewish Community Center Board Member, former Chairperson for Hebrew School for 15 years, Youth Group assistant coordinator and chaperone, and co-chairperson of the AIS Cemetery Committee. She also helped set up and cook lunches for the senior...

Dr. Thomas J. Conahan ’26

Wall of Fame Class of 2016 In addition to his accomplished medical career, Dr. Thomas J. Conahan ’26 was a dedicated supporter of many local, regional and national organizations, including serving on the MMI Board of Directors from 1955-81 and assuming the role of secretary from 1969-81. Dr. Conahan was president of Luzerne County Medical Society and VP of the PA Radiological Society. He served as president of the Heart Fund and head of the physician’s branch of two United Way Fund drives, and organized the physicians group for CAN DO fundraising efforts. He was a member of the American...

Mr. Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III ’82

Wall of Fame Class of 2016 Mr. Llewellyn F. Dryfoos III ’82 has served the residents of Greater Hazleton for decades through professional role as President of Dryfoos Insurance Group since 1991 and his involvement with a variety nonprofit and community organizations. Mr. Dryfoos was a member of the MMI Board of Directors from 1995-2004, from 2005-2013 and again beginning in 2016. He served two terms as chairman, two terms as vice chairman, and one term as secretary. He was a member of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors from 2008-2014 and held the role of Chairman...

Ms. Andrea A. Kosko ’74

Wall of Fame Class of 2023 Andrea Kosko has made an effort to give back to her community since she graduated in 1974. As a freshman, Andrea was part of the first group of girls to be accepted at our school. She credits MMI with helping her develop the tools to succeed, saying, “My MMI education is the foundation on which I have built my life. At MMI, I learned the importance of persevering in order to achieve success.” After high school, she graduated magna cum laude from Marywood College. Andrea continued on to business success, serving as a partner...

Mr. Paul D. Lesser ’73

Wall of Fame Class of 2012 Mr. Paul D. Lesser ’73 has been a firefighter for nearly 40 years and has dedicated his life to the safety of firefighters. In his many roles as a firefighter and a fire protection advocate, he has consistently sought to educate others and help keep firefighters safe. He operated PPL’s industrial fire training facility for 32 years, retiring in 2011. As PPL’s fire protection trainer, he instructed more than 500 PPL employees annually. Mr. Lesser serves as Luzerne County Community College’s public safety training coordinator and is an instructor for the Pennsylvania State Fire...

Mr. James M. Makuch ’60

Wall of Fame Class of 2015 In addition to his successful career in finance, James M. Makuch ’60 has an extensive background in community service. He has continued to support MMI since graduating in 1960. Mr. Makuch was the commencement speaker in 1998 and served as a committee member of the last Capital Campaign. He graduated with honors from the University of Connecticut and assisted his alma mater as a charitable drive coordinator, a board member, the president of the Professional Employees Association and the first non-faculty member appointed to University Senate. Mr. Makuch lives in Willington, Connecticut, and founded...

Mr. William “Rover” Schaub ‘48

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Mr. William “Rover” Schaub ’48 guided the Freeland Little League program for more than 30 years. Rover served the Little League wherever he was needed – as coach, league officer, groundskeeper, concession stand operator and player agent conducting tryouts and setting up teams. He was a teacher, mentor and friend to hundreds of area baseball players (many of whom were MMI students), instilling in his players the importance of teamwork, respect for authority and putting forth the maximum effort in all aspects of life. Rover was a coach and volunteer for the Freeland YMCA...

Mr. Edward M. Sharp ’36

Wall of Fame Class of 2009 Mr. Edward Sharp, Valedictorian of Class of 1936, has contributed to the MMI community as well as his local and global communities for decades. Following his graduation from MMI, Mr. Sharp received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Leigh University and his Master’s Degree from Harvard School of Business Administration. He served in the United States Army in World War II and was awarded the Legion of Merit for his “exceptional meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements”. In the community, Mr. Sharp served as chair of Freeland’s “Jobs for Men”...

Mr. William L. Spear R.Ph ’79

Wall of Fame Class of 2023 Bill graduated from MMI, obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science, and his two-year post-graduate degree from the Clinical Nutrition Certification Board. Bill is the CEO and Pharmacist at Hazle Drugs, America’s Oldest Compounding Pharmacy since 1868. Their natural and holistic approach is why physicians and patients near and far rely on his company for their customized medications. Bill has extensive training from the Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCAA) and is a member of PCAA’s Concierge Group, which is a specially selected group that...

Professional Achievement:

Mr. Irving G. Abrams ’30

Wall of Fame Class of 2023 Irving George Abrams graduated from MMI in 1930. Four years later, he received a Bachelor of Science in Commerce Degree from NYU. During the 1950s and 60s, Irving was a prominent business and civic leader in Hazleton and Freeland. He along with his brother, Simon ’30, and father operated three garment companies: Freeland Overall, Freeland Manufacturing and Freeland Shirt Company. The former Freeland Manufacturing Company site is now the MMI Tennis Courts. Outside of work, Irving volunteered his time to his community. He served as president of the Rotary Club from 1953-1960, a member...

Atty. Donald M. Barnes ’61

Wall of Fame Class of 2017 Atty. Donald M. Barnes ’61 is a senior partner in the Washington D.C. office of Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP and co-chair of the Antitrust Competition Law Practice Group. His practice is concentrated in antitrust/trade regulation law, agricultural cooperative law, trade association representation and complex antitrust and commercial litigation. He has defended numerous antitrust claims, both criminal and civil, including major, multi-district litigation and class actions. He has represented clients in various industries, including: defense, entertainment, health care, agriculture, transportation, food and beverage, and high technology. Over the past four decades, Atty. Barnes...

Maj. Gen. Peter C. Bayer ’80

Maj. Gen. Bayer is a retired United States Army Major General and former Director of Strategy, Plans, and Policy on the Army staff at the Pentagon. He served as MMI’s Commencement speaker in 2017. His current position is as the Area Vice President, Midwest South at Penske Logistics. He had also previously served as the Area Vice President, Northeast for Penske Logistics, where he led a team of more than 1,900 associates providing world class transportation and warehouse management logistics support to 37 diverse customers nationwide. His career in the United States Army spanned more than 29 years as a...

Dr. Brian G. Brazzo ’84

Wall of Fame Class of 2009 Dr. Brian G. Brazzo ‘84 has led a remarkable career as an Ophthalmologist and Facial Plastic Surgeon. Following his graduation from MMI as Valedictorian, Dr. Brazzo earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania in Neurobiology and is a graduate of Harvard Medical School. He spent three years of specialty training and attained the highest standing in the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. Dr. Brazzo currently practices as a board-certified ophthalmologist and his practice at the New York Eye Surgery Center involves the most advanced techniques in ophthalmic...

Dr. Cornelis F. Coll III ‘60

Wall of Fame Class of 2012 Dr. Cory Coll ’60 spent his career in the field of nuclear weapons. He earned a bachelor’s degree and a Ph.D. in physics, then spent three years of post-doctoral study and teaching at the University of California, Los Angeles. Later, Dr. Coll joined the weapons program at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as a design physicist and participated in three underground tests at the Nevada Test Site. While employed at LLNL, he took a two-and-a-half year assignment at the Pentagon as a special assistant in the Strategic Defense Systems Office and later at the...

Mr. Thomas P. Crofcheck ‘73

Wall of Fame Class of 2021 Thomas P. Crofcheck ’73 attended Bloomsburg University and graduated with a degree in Accounting. He then began work as an auditor for the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare, a position he held for 35 years before his retirement. During his time with the Commonwealth, he held roles of increasing responsibility and challenges, being promoted to Audit Director for the Bureau of Financial Operations in 1999. As audit director, Tom was responsible for Internal Audit Decisions for the state of Pennsylvania, managing a staff of over 30 field auditors, with offices in Scranton, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia...

Ms. Jeanette Butala DiBella ’75

Wall of Fame Class of 2008 Ms. Jeanette Butala DiBella ‘75 is an award-winning educator serving as principal of Providence-St. Mel School, a private college prep school in Chicago. An innovative educator, she is known for her compassionate, creative and tough-love approach to education. Ms. DiBella joined Providence-St. Mel in 1996 as Lower School Director where she developed the consequence continuum for the lower school and aligned the curriculum to national elementary standards. She was named assistant principal in 1997 and principal in 2000. Under her leadership, Providence-St. Mel continually surpasses national standards and has received numerous national and regional...

Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto ’79

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Atty. Richard A. DiLiberto ’79 is a litigation partner at Young, Conaway, Stargatt & Taylor law firm in Wilmington, DE. Before joining the firm in 1987, he was a law clerk to Judge Vincent A. Bifferato of the Delaware Superior Court. Rick is President of the Delaware Trial Lawyers Association for 2005-2006 and has served as a Delaware State Representative from 1992 to 2002. He has been appointed to the Supreme Court Task Force on Racial and Ethnic Fairness in the Courts and the Delaware Healthcare Commission’s Diabetes Task Force. He received the Delaware...

Dr. Joseph A. Donato ’66

Wall of Fame Class of 2011 Dr. Joseph A. Donato ‘66 operated a private practice in general dentistry since the 1970s which had offices in Freeland and Conyngham. After completing dentistry school at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Dr. Donato returned to Freeland to remain close to his family and practice dentistry in the community where he was raised. He has been inducted as a fellow of the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists, Pierre Fauchard Academy, Academy of General Dentistry, and American Endodontic Society. He is active in the Pennsylvania Dental Association on...

Dr. Murray Feingold ’48

Wall of Fame Class of 2007 Distinguished physician, educator, author and community leader, Dr. Murray Feingold ’48 has devoted his life to the care of children with birth defects. He is Physician-In-Chief of the National Birth Defects Center associated with Children’s Hospital Boston and the Massachusetts General Hospital for Children. Dr. Feingold is nationally known in the field of clinical genetics and is the author of more than 175 scientific articles and two books. He was one of the first physicians to proactively use the media to educate the public on health issues and has been the medical editor of...

Mr. Clinton A. Feissner, Esq. ’28

Wall of Fame Class of 2008 Mr. Clinton A. Feissner, Esq. ‘28 enjoyed a remarkable career in service to the United States. Following graduation from MMI, Mr. Feissner earned his Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown University Law School. His sense of duty and responsibility to improve the welfare of others led him to enlist in the United States Air Force during World War II. During the war, he honed his skills as an attorney, earning a reputation for intelligence, industriousness and integrity. Mr. Feissner was assigned by Allied General Headquarters as chief of the Research and Development Division of the...

Dr. George G. Feussner ’62

Wall of Fame Class of 2014 Dr. George Feussner is an accomplished neurosurgeon who continues to practice in northern Florida. During his long medical career, he has distinguished himself as a major figure in the field of neurology, pioneering and becoming board certified in new technologies for diagnosis and treatment. He has treated more than 200,000 patients throughout his medical tenure. He contributed to research supporting the use of intravenous Dilantin in treating epilepsy, which became the standard of care for unrelenting seizures. He was a co-founder of the Southern Clinical Neurological Society, which now includes more than 300 clinical...

Dr. James W. Feussner ’65

Wall of Fame Class of 2013 Dr. James Feussner serves as senior clinical consultant at the Deveroux Foundation’s Acute Crisis Hospital for Children and Adolescents in Philadelphia. He is also the medical director and child and adolescent behavioral health specialist at a major national medical insurance company. He studied Fine Arts at University of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, but then earned an M.D. from Temple University School of Medicine as well as a J.D. from Temple University School of Law. Dr. Feussner became board certified in child psychiatry in 1982 after studying with Anna Freud, the...

Dr. John R. Feussner ’64

Wall of Fame Class of 2013 Dr. John Feussner ’64 is a distinguished university professor and the executive senior associate dean for clinical affairs at the Medical University of South Carolina. Until recently, he served as the professor and chairman of the Department of Medicine from 2002 to 2011. He also serves as professor in the Department of Biostatics and Epidemiology and the Department of Neurology. From 1996 to 2002, Dr. Feussner served as chief research and development officer for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and as director of the VA Cooperative Studies Program. He also served on the...

Dr. Thomas E. Gillespie ’57

Wall of Fame Class of 2008 Dr. Thomas E. Gillespie ‘57 served as a faculty member in the Department of Orthopedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, from 1983 until his death in 2005. Dr. Gillespie graduated from Georgetown University School of Medicine and was a lieutenant commander in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Dr. Gillespie completed his orthopedic and plastic/reconstructive surgery residencies at the Medical College of Wisconsin and a hand surgery fellowship at the University of Iowa. With the exception of a short tenure at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine, Dr. Gillespie’s entire...

Mr. Richard Goldman ’68

Wall of Fame Class of 2011 Mr. Richard Goldman ‘68 went to work at clothing store Men’s Wearhouse after earning a degree from Rutgers University. Starting at one store with annual sales of less than $1 million, Mr. Goldman and his business partner grew Men’s Wearhouse into the largest chain of men’s clothing stores in North America, with more than 500 stores in the United States and more than 120 in Canada. Mr. Goldman is widely considered the marketing mastermind of Men’s Wearhouse. As early as 1975, he urged the company to use television as its main form of advertising....

Mr. David G. Gundling ’68

Wall of Fame Class of 2015 David G. Gundling ’68 had a long and successful career in the food distribution industry, culminating in a position as the chairman of Spartan Management Group. He was a member of the board of directors of St. Joseph’s University Academy of Food Marketing, Payless Cashways and Genuardi’s Family Markets. Mr. Gundling received his bachelor’s degree in history from Allegheny College in 1972. In 1979, he was hired by SuperRite Foods, the food division of Rite Aid Corporation. He worked his way up the ranks over a 17-year span to senior executive and president of...

Atty. Tara E. Gutterman ’84

Wall of Fame Class of 2015 Atty. Tara E. ’84 Gutterman is the founder of Adoption ARC and served as the organization’s executive director from 1994-2009. After graduating from Bryn Mawr with degrees in English and Spanish and earning a law degree from Temple University’s Beasley School of Law, Atty. Gutterman began her career as an attorney with the City of Philadelphia Law Department, where she handled hundreds of child abuse cases, child neglect cases and termination of parental rights hearings. She subsequently worked for a private nonprofit adoption agency in Philadelphia before founding Adoption ARC, which works to find...

Mr. John G. (Jerry) Hludzik ’70

Wall of Fame Class of 2021 Jerry Hludzik ’70 was a famed musician, songwriter and producer. He formed his first band, The Odd Powers, in Freeland and later joined Hazleton local bands, Happiness and Moses. He began performing and writing in-earnest while still in his early teens. Following his MMI graduation, Jerry went on to study at Luzerne County Community College where he fatefully met Bill Kelly, co-founder of The Buoys, and brother of current MMI Head of School, Theresa Long. 

Jerry joined The Buoys and the group vaulted to national prominence when their hit song, “Timothy,” peaked at number...

Mr. Roy W. Johnson ’63

Wall of Fame Class of 2015 Roy W. Johnson ’63 received his Bachelor of Architecture in 1968 and Master of Science in Architectural Engineering in 1971 from Penn State University. He moved to Charlotte and joined Odell Associates, Inc. in 1971. Mr. Johnson was project manager on a new airport terminal at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (then called Douglas Municipal Airport) in 1978 and later became principal in charge for Odell. In 1986, he was named the chief operating officer of Odell and served as president beginning in 1988 until his retirement in 1998. Mr. Johnson continued consulting with Charlotte...

Mrs. Rosalyn V. (Menon) Kennedy ’97

Wall of Fame Class of 2015 Rosalyn V. (Menon) Kennedy ’97 graduated from Brown University in 2001 with a bachelor of arts in English literature and from the Columbia School of Journalism with a master’s degree in broadcast and news media in 2008. She began her career in New York City at CBS News from 2002-2008, where she earned The Investigative Reporters and Editors Award and served as a National News Judge for the Emmy Awards. During her time at CBS, she worked as an associate producer on the CBS Evening News with Dan Rather and 60 Minutes. Mrs. Kennedy...

Dr. Robert G. Kettrick ’60

Wall of Fame Class of 2018 Dr. Robert G. Kettrick ’60 retired in 2010 after eight years with the Nemours Foundation as the Chairman of the Professional Performance and Quality Committee. From 1996-2002, he was the Medical Director and Chief Executive of the Practice at Nemours Children’s Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. From 1987-1996, he served as the Director of the Division of Critical Care as well as the Chairman of the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care at the Alfred I. DuPont Institute of the Nemours Foundation. Dr. Kettrick served as a Major in the U.S. Army Medical Corps from...

Dr. Lawrence E. Kline ‘60

Wall of Fame Class of 2012 Dr. Lawrence Kline ’60 is the director of the Scripps Clinic Sleep Center in La Jolla, California. After completing his association with the U.S. Public Health Service as director of intensive care and assistant chief of medicine in New York, he joined the Scripps Clinic in 1978.  He is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary medicine, critical care medicine, and sleep disorders medicine. As a volunteer physician for the Missionaries of Charity, Dr. Kline treated and befriended Mother Teresa, the founder of the order, during her hospital stay for pneumonia and congestive heart failure...

Dr. William J. Koenig ’78

Wall of Fame Class of 2014 Dr. William Koenig is a well-known plastic surgeon currently practicing in Rochester, New York. He has partnered with the Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery since 2003 and previously worked at the Guthrie Clinic in Sayre, Pennsylvania. He has traveled extensively to Central and South America and the Philippines with Operation Hope. As part of the program, he volunteers his services every year to perform surgery on children with cleft lips and cleft palates. During a few of his annual trips, he was the chief surgeon working with the children. Dr. Koenig has given presentations...

Mr. William M. Loftus ’62

Wall of Fame Class of 2007 Mr. William M. Loftus ’62 is an accomplished business leader and a dedicated alumnus. He is retired chairman, president and CEO of Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association Insurance Company, one of the oldest property and casualty insurance companies in Pennsylvania. Mr. Loftus is a former member of the Board of Directors of Pennsylvania Manufacturers Corporation and also served on the Board of the American Institute of Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriters and the Pennsylvania Insurance Federation. He served as a member of the MMI Board from 1997 to 2006 and 2007-2013, and is a member of...

Dr. Robert J. Lutz ’63

Wall of Fame Class of 2014 Dr. Robert Lutz retired as a biomedical engineer in the Laboratory of Bioengineering and Physical Science at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, where he was chief of the Drug Delivery and Kinetic Section. He spent the entirety of his 38-year career in that profession, providing important contributions that led to the development of bioengineering programs at NIH. Dr. Lutz authored more than 60 scientific publications in addition to several book chapters. He mentored more than 150 bioengineering students and served as the director of the Biomedical Engineering Summer Internship Program...

Mr. Joshua Madden ’47

Wall of Fame Class of 2008 Mr. Joshua Madden ‘47 enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a metallurgist, materials engineer and executive engineer at General Motors and Volkswagen. Mr. Madden began working for General Motors in 1954 at the Pontiac Motor Division in product engineering where he served as senior experimental metallurgist, rubber and plastics engineer and staff materials engineer. After 23 years at GM, he joined Volkswagen of America and was chief engineer in charge of setting materials engineering specifications and overseeing production engineering. He is responsible for numerous firsts in the field of automotive plastics including the...

Mr. Carl D. Marotta ’49

Wall of Fame Class of 2007 Mr. Carl D. Marotta ’49 has been described by his peers as a pioneer in the health care packaging industry. An innovative business leader, he is retired president and CEO of Tolas Health Care Packaging Company, where he served from 1987 to 2006. Mr. Marotta was named Exporter of the Year for Eastern Pennsylvania in 2003 by the Philadelphia Office of the United States Small Business Administration. He has served on many industry and technical associations including the Institute of Packaging Professionals. He has also led packaging seminars at Rutgers University and the Institute...

Dr. Nicholas A. Martyak ’59

Wall of Fame Class of 2012 Dr. Nicholas A. Martyak ’59 dedicated his life to children as a well-respected pediatrician in Hazleton until he passed away in 1998. He completed his pediatric internship, pediatric residency, and pediatric hematology fellowship at the Medical College of Virginia. For 27 years, Martyak was a staff member at Hazleton-St. Joseph Medical Center. He served as chief of pediatrics there and at Coaldale State Hospital. He was elected president and chief of staff at St. Joseph’s for 1983. Martyak was a clinical assistant professor of family and community medicine at Penn State University’s College of...

Dr. Thomas P.J. McGraw, D.O. ’52

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Dr. Thomas P.J. McGraw, D.O. ’52 is a longtime and well-respected family practice physician, anesthesiologist and quality assurance director. Tom’s life has been an example of courage and determination. He contracted polio at an early age and underwent long and painful treatments to regain the use of his limbs. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania where he was told that he would not be physically able to handle the rigors of medicine. After graduation, Tom taught chemistry and physics in the Philadelphia area but kept alive his dream to become a physician. In...

Dr. Philip A. McHale ’58

Wall of Fame Class of 2008 Dr. Philip A. McHale ‘58 is an Associate Professor of Physiology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, College of Medicine since 1986 and Director of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Program since 2001. Dr. McHale has also served the University of Oklahoma in various capacities in the Deans’ offices, both in curriculum and student affairs. In addition, he is director of a program at the university that assists Native Americans in preparing for admission to medical school. From 1972 to 1985, he held several teaching positions at the Duke University Medical...

Mr. Harry Carl Schaub, J.D. ’46

Wall of Fame Class of 2009 Mr. Harry Carl Schaub, J.D. ’46, has enjoyed a successful pair of careers filled with accomplishments. For over fifty years, Mr. Schaub has practiced law with the Philadelphia firm of Montgomery, McCracken, Walker and Rhoades with a concentration in international business as well as corporate and securities law. Mr. Schaub also serves as Austrian Consul General, representing the Republic of Austria on public and private matters with the City of Philadelphia. In this position, he was awarded the Austrian Knight’s Cross, First Class, for his outstanding service to the Republic of Austria. Mr. Schaub’s...

Dr. Fredrick Sherman ‘63

Wall of Fame Class of 2012 Dr. Fredrick T. Sherman ’63 has devoted himself to the practice of geriatrics for more than 30 years. He has distinguished himself as a teacher, administrator, private practitioner, and medical columnist through his work in academic, acute, fee-for-service, long-term, and managed-care settings. Dr. Sherman was the recipient of the first American Geriatrics Society’s Clinician of the Year Award in 1990 and was selected three times as Teacher of the Year by the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, where he is a clinical professor. In 2001,...

Dr. Martin Sokoloski ’55

Wall of Fame Class of 2009 Dr. Martin Sokoloski ‘55 is a well-respected research physicist who has consulted with the National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA) on the Mars Initiative as well as the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Ames Research Center. Dr. Sokoloski was also chosen to serve as an Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (IEEE) Society’s Congressional Fellow for 2004. The program, coordinated by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, places scientists in Congressional offices, allowing them the opportunity to work with staff on issues in areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Dr. Sokoloski...

Dr. Alfred H. Stiller ’63

Dr. Alfred H. Stiller ’63 is an Emeritus Professor of Chemical Engineering at West Virginia University’s Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources, where he has been on the faculty since 1980. During his time at West Viriginia University, Dr. Stiller served as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Full Professor of Chemical Engineering, Adjunct Professor for the Animal Sciences Department, and Adjunct Professor of the Chemistry Department. He graduated with a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Cincinnati in 1973 and with a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Eastern College in 1967. His research is primarily...

Mr. Joseph A. Turri ’45

Wall of Fame Class of 2010 Mr. Joseph Turri ‘45 is the founder and chief executive officer of Advanced Coating Technologies (ACT), a company specializing in coating techniques for a multitude of commercial and military applications. After graduating from MMI, Mr. Turri completed his bachelor degree at the University of Pennsylvania. In 1976, after a trip to Europe where he was introduced to early powder coating technology, Mr. Turri returned to the states and started his own company. Under Mr. Turri’s guidance, ACT became a pioneer in the application of powdered plastic coating and has grown into a multi-national business....

Dr. Walter W. Tunnessen ’57

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Dr. Walter W. Tunnessen ’57, a general pediatrician with a specialty in pediatric dermatology, was on the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, the State University of New York Health Sciences Center and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. As Vice President of the American Board of Pediatrics, Dr. Tunnessen greatly influenced the direction of pediatric training in the United States and Canada. He served on numerous national committees whose primary goal is to improve the health care for America’s children. Dr. Tunnessen lectured at numerous educational conferences and authored several...

Dr. Joseph Urenovitch ’55

Wall of Fame Class of 2013 Dr. Joseph Urenovitch ’55 has attained significant accomplishments in the field of industrial chemistry throughout his career. He worked as vice president of research, development and licensing at Atlas Powder Company, where he directed the development, commercialization and licensing of bulk and packaged emulsion explosives, the first commercialization of emulsion explosives in the world. These products advanced and revolutionized the commercial explosives industry. The president and CEO of Atlas cited Dr. Urenovitch’s leadership and efforts as a primary reason that Atlas became the largest and most profitable explosives company in the United States. He...

Mr. Joseph A. Varilla ’55

Wall of Fame Class of 2006 Mr. Joseph A. Varilla was the salutatorian of the Class of 1955 and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Lehigh University. Mr. Varilla began his stellar career in the communications field as a member of United Press International and as a reporter for the Hazleton Standard-Sentinel. In 1963, he joined Xerox Corporation where he continued working in various capacities for more than 40 years. Mr. Varilla was head of Corporate Communications and director of Global Communications for Xerox and excelled as a writer and editor despite suffering from multiple sclerosis. He was recognized...

Dr. Richard J. Williams ’62

The Valedictorian of the Class of 1962, Dr. Williams earned a degree in geology from Lehigh University after which he received a Ph.D. in geochemistry from Johns Hopkins. After his Ph.D. work, he joined NASA in Houston and earned a technical degree (Masters level) in Public Administration from the University of Houston. At NASA, Dr. Williams served as a Research Scientist at the Johnson Space Craft Center. He was involved extensively with the Space Station programs and was in charge of the many experiments conducted on the Space Station. He was also the Manager of Planetary Geology and Physics at...

Mr. Neal Wood ’44

Wall of Fame Class of 2011 Mr. Neal Wood ‘44 spent nearly 40 years as an engineer for the Turnpike Commission and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation before retiring as the turnpike commission’s chief bridge engineer in 1991.   He worked on several high-profile projects during his career, from the Interstate Highway System to the completion of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, playing an instrumental role in building highway systems in Pennsylvania. Mr. Wood is responsible for developing one of the most effective highway safety devices, the SNAP system. SNAP (Sonic Nap Alert Pattern) is the pattern of rumble strips grooved into the...

Mr. John Zoltak ’56

Wall of Fame Class of 2009 Mr. John Zoltak ‘56 is the founder and chief executive officer of the Support Systems Associates, Inc. (SSAI), a company that has been providing advanced management, engineering, logistics and technical support services to the Department of Defense and industry customers for 40 years. After graduating from MMI and completing his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, he began his career as an engineer for the Autonetics division of North American Aviation and then for the Harris Corporation where he participated in the development of the first completely computerized avionic test system used on...