BC Alumni Newsletter

March 2023
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Alumni Spotlight
Debra Conrad Clark ‘88
Debra was one of the alumni who returned to BC to speak to students on Career Day. Debra
has been a criminal prosecutor for 24 years, the last 15 years of which have been with the New
Jersey Attorney General's Office, Division of Criminal Justice. She also spent time in the Morris
County Prosecutor's Office and with the Brooklyn District Attorney.

Currently, Debra is Senior Counsel in the Specialized Crimes Bureau. In her role, she runs two
separate task forces. Debra works closely with the State Police and multiple outside agencies,
including prosecutors, the Division of Motor Vehicles, the Department of Labor, the Office of Counter Terrorism, and the
United States Attorney's Office. She is also a member of the Attorney General's Shooting Response Team, responding to any
Officer-involved shootings in the State of New Jersey or any in-custody deaths involving officers.
Debra has prosecuted multi-defendant cases charging a range of criminal conduct, including racketeering, narcotics, orga-
nized crime, cargo theft, homicides, financial crimes, violent motor vehicle crimes, and insurance fraud. In the last year alone,
she has successfully obtained guilty pleas from over 25 defendants in various racketeering cases, many of whom were sen-
tenced to extended prison terms.

We asked her to share some of her favorite memories of her time here and what BC means to her.

My best memory of my time at Burke Catholic is playing sports. I made some of my closest friends on the soccer
field. Those friendships continue all these years later. Of course, my fondest sports memory is being on a state
championship-winning softball team. Mr. Paul De Sol was one of the best coaches I ever had. He cared about
each and every player who showed up for his tryouts. We were a small school, but we played big! He made us
feel important, and wow, we won!! The banner makes me smile every time I see it. Remembering the best times!

To me, Burke Catholic means family and the friends you choose to call your family! Burke gave me a foundation
to start my academic path in college and law school. Burke teachers were not just figures standing in front of a
classroom or behind a desk. They were caring individuals who mentored every student in and outside the class-
room.
If I had to choose one word to describe Burke Catholic, it would be welcoming. Even now, many years after grad-
uation, when I walk through the doors, I feel it. There is always a familiar face, and you feel like you belong. Eve-
ry high school can't claim that!
 ,

Eagles Soaring
Chase McFarlane ‘14

I have so many great memories from my time at Burke

Catholic. A few stand out, but one club, in particular,
helped shape me into the woman I would become; the dra-
ma club. Performing in the Drama Club as a sophomore and
a senior in Curtains and God-
spell productions was a wonder-
ful experience. I credit Drama
Club with building my confidence in public speaking,
meeting new people, and giving me a deep appreciation of
the performance arts. This followed me into my college
studies at St. John's University. I was a stage manager for
several school productions and an inductee in their na-
tional theater honor society, Alpha Psi Omega.

Currently, I am working in scientific communications at an

advertising agency in New York City. I will begin my stud-
ies at the College of Mount Saint Vincent this summer,
where I will be pursuing a Master's in Business Admin-
istration.
 ,
Eagles Giving Back
This year 18 Alumni came home to Fletcher Street to speak to current Burke Catholic
students during BC Career Day. Some were able to join the students in person, and
others in a live virtual presentation. Inspiring, mentoring, and sharing their experi-
ence with Eagles finding their way, the fulfillment of Non Vox Sed Votum.

Dirk Van Oostendorp ‘ 77

Director of Engineering Services, Corrpro Companies

Robert Conrad ‘91 Supervisory Special Agent, FBI

Supervisory Special Agent Conrad has 20 years experience as an FBI agent. He
was assigned to the FBI New York Office for 15 years where he worked Securi-
ties Fraud, Eurasian Organized Crime, and Crisis Management. He was an FBI
SWAT Team Leader for 3.5 years. Robert is also an FBI Crisis Management Co-
ordinator, Tactical Instructor, Firearms Instructor, and Defensive Tactics In-
structor. Robert is currently the Supervisor of the Crisis Response Squad in the
FBI Newark Field Office
which entail the Newark
SWAT Team, Evidence Re-
sponse Team, Crisis Negotia-
tion Team, Crisis Response Team, and Special Events.

Robert spoke with the students about his career path. He

also presented specifically on the FBI Crisis Response Pro-
gram.
 ,

Michael Burns, ‘87 Assistant Principal, Minisink Valley HS;

Adjunct Professor, Marist College
A 32 year veteran in the Education field, Michael worked as and English teacher
in Warwick, Tri-Valley, and Minisink Valley prior to becoming an Assistant
Principal in 2009. Michael shared with the students his journey and the grit
and determination it takes to pursue an advanced degree as well as the im-
portance of faith and family.

“Career Day at Burke Catholic was a wonderful

experience. I felt engagement with the students
who were in my sessions, and I believe I had more
students this year than last. The students who
asked questions demonstrated real insight and curiosity about my story and
about education in general. Apart from the speaking experience, it was wonder-
ful to have conversation with the students chosen to lead the speakers. They
were cogent, and most of whom I met were seniors. Their dreams and ambitions
were impressive. I enjoyed catching up with former teachers, Mr. Debold and
Mr. Tuner, and I enjoyed speaking with Mr. Douthit and Mrs. Clark about old
times. The support staff in the office were very friendly and accommodating, and
Burke Catholic security kept me smiling. Please make sure they invite me again next year!”

Len Pawliczak‘ 87
Director of Operations, AWR Group, Inc.

Len is responsible for the oversight of exterior construction

projects. He communicates directly with engineers, archi-
tects, and building ownership/management to discuss pro-
gress on all phases of work and address and resolve any con-
cerns. He also oversees project managers and sub-contractors
and reviews billing and change orders for all projects on a
monthly basis.

Len discussed with students the types of jobs in the New York
City construction field, including his area, Hi-Rise Building
Restoration. He also spoke in depth about his role as Director
of Operations and the path he took to earn this role.
 Maire Ullrich, ‘88
Agriculture Program Leader, Cornell Cooperative Extension

Maire discussed with the students Agricultural and Food systems careers that are available as well as where
to go to college if interested in pursuing this fields.

“I’m always happy to share with students all of the potential opportunities for careers in the agriculture and
food system industries. But, it is particularly fun to do it at Burke because I get to remind everyone the Class of
’88 remains the best class ever to go through those halls.”

Jason Giordano ‘92 Partner; Accountant; Valuation Analyst

PKF O’Connor Davies
Jason provides strategy, tax planning, compliance, tax return prepara-
tion, and representation for companies in a range of industries, includ-
ing hospitality, manufacturing, construction, and healthcare. As a Cer-
tified Valuation Analyst, Jason provides valuation services to a broad
range of clients.
Jason discussed with the students his career
in accounting, what his day-to-day looks
like, and how he got into his current posi-
tion.

“As a graduate of Burke Catholic, it was an

honor to be asked back and have the oppor-
tunity to give the students a bit of a background into what I do.”
,
Brian Powers, ‘98
Director of Business Development, PKF O’Connor Davies

Brian’s current position entails creating strategic opportunities for PKF O’Connor Davies by cultivating
partnerships or other commercial relationships. He has been in this position for over 9 years.

Brian spoke to the students about his career and how he got to his current position. He also shared
with them an overview of Business Development and what his average day looks like.

Tom Weirich ‘98 Senior Manager– Marketing in North America, EDP Renewables
Author, “We Took the Risk”
Tom has been a critical facilitator in building collaboration and connect-
ing key players in the global renewable energy industry for 18 years. Be-
fore his current position, he was Director of Marketing at Rubicon Capi-
tal Advisors and Director of Marketing and Business Development at
Cohn Reznick Capital. For 12 years, he was Senior Vice President of Cor-
porate Relations and interim Chief Operating Officer at American Coun-
cil on Renewable Energy in D.C. Tom has served under the Obama Ad-
ministration twice in honorary roles, advising both the Secretary of
Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative on renewable energy trade
and manufacturing policies.
Tom recently published the book “We Took the Risk: The Stories Behind the Early
Risk Takers in the U.S. Renewable Energy Industry and the Leadership Traits that
Made Them a Success.”
Tom spoke to students about the energy sector and gave an overview of renewable
energy in the United States. He also took the students through the process of how
to land an internship and a job in the renewable energy field and how to develop
their career track in the field.
 Jeff Thoelen, ‘00
Lieutenant-Bureau Commander of Operations
City of Middletown Police Department

Jeff is responsible for overseeing the department’s

Patrol Division, which comprises approximately 50
patrol officers and 10 supervisors. Jeff previously
worked as a Patrol Lieutenant, Patrol Sargent, and
K-9 Patrol Officer.

Jeff discussed law enforcement as a career, focusing

on the prerequisites for applying for the job, the
civil service examination, salary, and benefits. He
also spoke to the students about the job and the changes the field has undergone
over the past several years. Jeff advised the students on what decisions they can
make now that can positively or negatively impact their chances of being hired.

“This was my second opportunity to be able to come back to Burke and talk to students about a potential career in
law enforcement. I feel that my time at Burke prepared me so well to take on the demands of being a police officer,
and I hope I was able to inspire some future alumni to step up and accept the challenge. Mrs. Clark and Mr. Douthit
are putting in the time and effort necessary to make sure Burke continues to be at the forefront of Catholic educa-
tion. Events like Career Day help ensure that students are getting the information they need to make the best choic-
es for their future.”

Laura (Caccavone), Rico ‘02

Licensed Mental Health Counselor
BC Guidance Dept

Laura holds a BA in Psychology with a minor in So-

ciology. Laura also has her MS in Mental Health
Counseling. For 10 years, she worked in private
practice (Minisink Psychology and Psychotherapy),
providing counseling to children, teens, and adults.
After that, Laura worked for ADAPP as a counselor
in school-based settings providing individual and
group counseling and teaching drug prevention
and life skills programs.

Laura shared with the students what it is like to major in Psychology and different career outcomes, focusing
primarily on the mental health field. She also spoke about paths to licensure following graduation and work-
ing as an LMHC in different settings (school, hospital, and private practice).

“I loved being able to present to current students on career day. As an Alumni, I think it is great to be able to
share different career paths with students so that they can see just how many opportunities are out there. I
wish we had a career day when I was at Burke.”
 Jaimie (Hilfiger) Dahan ‘03
Model, Actress, Beauty Mogul

Jaimie is a self-made entrepreneur. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast

Media with a minor in Cinema Studies. Jaimie has made numerous television
appearances, including an E! Network series feature. Appearing on over 30
magazine covers, nationally and internationally, she has earned the Interna-
tional Model Award from the Hollywood F.A.M.E. Association. Jaimie has also
worked as a Huffington Post columnist, an US Weekly fashion contributor,
and a Fox News Magazine fashion correspondent.
Jamie is the creator and face of The Jaimie Hilfiger
Collection by La Curcio.

Jaimie spoke to the students about her career path.

She stressed the importance of education and the ability to face and overcome rejec-
tion.

“Going back to Burke Catholic for career day was very surreal. Since I am rarely in
the area, it was the first time I had been back since I graduated. I was so happy to see
my favorite teacher, Madame Clark, who is now Principal Clark, as soon as I walked
in. I was grateful to hear that my presentation filled up immediately, so they gave me
rooms 1 & 2. Looking out into the eyes of upper and lower-classmen is intimidating,
to say the least! I give high school teachers so much credit! I felt like all the students
were very engaged and eager to hear my story, my challenges, and my successes. Af-
ter my presentation, Madame Clark brought me on a tour, and I was able to see
some of my favorite teachers, like Mrs. Ross and Mr. Turner. I loved seeing the new middle school and meeting
some of the younger students as well. It was a wonderful experience, and I can’t wait to be back! “
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Greg Terlecky ‘05 - Data Scientist, Cisco

Greg holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics and a Master of Science in Data Sci-
ence. Greg has worked as a Data Scientist and Physicist at UNC Wilmington and
an Instrument Engineer at Alcami Corporations. His work experience includes a
concentration in experimental particle physics, calibration, preventative mainte-
nance, laboratory repair, and produc-
tion and packaging instrumentation
systems. In 2019 he founded Red Wolf
Analytics. Red Wolf brings the power
of data science and AI to every busi-
ness. Currently working at Cisco,
Greg focuses on Demand Data Service
and Marketing Operations.

Greg shared with the students a demonstration of Machine Learning

AI and discussed the Tech Industry and the many opportunities it
offers.
,

Brian Clarke ‘10– Private Banking Officer

Orange Bank & Trust Company
Brian earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in His-
tory from Washington & Lee University in Vir-
ginia. He began his baking career 6 years ago as
a loan portfolio manager with Orange Bank &
Trust Company. Brian connects his clients with
the right professionals to help them achieve
their financial goals.

Brian gave the students an overview of banking and wealth management.

Brian discussed portfolio management, commercial lending, and the role
of a Private Banking Officer. Focus was put on the possible pathways to a
career in finance and banking.

Meredith Perri Clark ‘10

Managing Producer/Sports and High School Sport Editor
Mass Live

At Boston University College of Communication, Meredith majored in

journalism. While attending University, she interned with SNY covering
the Mets, and freelanced for FOX Sports. Initially, Meredith took a part-
time high school sports position with MassLive. She would eventually run
the department and be promoted to Managing Producer of Sports. A
member of the Associated Press Sports
Editors 2022-2023 Diversity in Leadership
Fellowship and was a part of the Associa-
tion for Women in Sports Media’s Champions Class of 2020.

Meredith spoke to the students about how to enter the journalism field.
She also discussed with them the types of jobs available within sports
media and newsroom leadership.

“BC Career Day was a wonderful opportunity to speak with current Burke
Catholic students. My teachers and guidance counselors were such great
mentors to me while I was a student. It means so much to have that oppor-
tunity with today’s Eagles.”
 Meaghan (Ruiz) Bayer ‘12
Director of Crisis Services
Mental Health Association of Orange County
Meaghan studied Forensic Psychology at the University of New Haven. She wanted
to be a police officer but found her calling while working as a Victim Advocate for
Orange County. Meaghan has continued supporting survivors of intimate partner
violence in Orange and Sullivan County for the
last 5 years in multiple roles/agencies. As Director
of Crisis Services, she continues to provide advo-
cacy, prevention, and resources to the community partners here in Orange
County.

Meaghan discussed the details of Crisis Services and response in Orange

County with the students. She shared her knowledge of the community re-
sources available, especially regarding mental health and well-being.

“It was wonderful being back at Burke to speak with students not only
about what I do now but to also teach them how important taking care of
your mental health is. The students were great, and the conversations had
were so important! I am so happy to continue to be able to make such a difference in our community.”

Steven Cushing ‘15

Assistant Football Coach, SUNY Cortland
Steven shared with the students his career path and the steps he took to get there. He also spent time
sharing how to enter the coaching profession and detailed his job responsibilities.
,

BC Alumni Reunions!
We have a few reunions in the planning stages.
You can find contact information on the next few pages and look for infor-
mation to be posted in the coming weeks on the alumni page of our website

Calling the Class of 2003!

It will be 20 years since the class of 2003 graduated high school!

We all know what this means! Our 20 year reunion!
Please reach out to Deirdre Dillion at the email below.
Let the planning begin!

deirdredillon07@gmail.com
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Save the date Class of 1978

Let’s celebrate the Class of ‘78

It is time for our 45th Reunion

October 7, 2023
The Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame of the Trotter

We want to get in touch with as many classmates as possible; please share

this information and reach out to one of the committee members below.

Jim Brannigan bjames71@aol.com

Coleen Minnock cminnock1@gmail.com
Mike Phipps Phippsmcp@aol.com

Looking forward to October!

Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.

 Class of ‘73
50 Year Reunion

Save the date Class of 1973!

There will be a 50th High School reunion for members of the class of 1973 on September 30, 2023
at Delancey’s in Goshen NY.

If you are on Facebook, there is a group to join for our class:

JS Burke Class Of ’73

Also, if you are in touch with a classmate, please share this date.

Looking forward to being together in September.

More information to follow!

We are seeking mailing and email addresses.

Please email any of the following class members with your contact information.

Peg (Dickerson) Cullen Peggycullen1@yahoo.com

Patty (Arceri) Wojehowski pwoje@yahoo.com
Bob Frederick captainbobservices@hotmail.com
Mary Kaye (Dougherty) Koch mkkoch@optonline.net
David Roach droachcmd@hotmail.com
Rita Flynn ritaflynn01@optonline.net
Mary Kay (Swanwick) Jankowski swanski55@gmail.com
,

BCHS Family, Friends & Alumni Gala

Join us for the biggest party of the year!
 The BC Connection Internships
The BC Connection every Friday at noon.
You can connect at 1110 AM or 93.5 FM Billtrust Internships - https://
www.billtrust.com/careers/internships/
Innovation. Education. openinternships/

BGB Group—https://bgbgroup.com/
jobApplication.html?gh_jid=4804214

Coaching Positions
Interested in joining the BC Coaching
Staff?
Email Adam Kless, BC Athletic Director
akless@burkecatholic.org

Yearbook Needed
A message from Mrs. Ruiz-

I am trying to put together the most complete set of

yearbooks for our archives. I am missing a copy of the
1957 yearbook. If anyone is willing to donate their copy
please email jruiz@burkecatholic.org

Many of our BC Alumni are looking for internships. If your compa-

ny offers internships or mentorships please contact
Karen at kdwyer@burkecatholic.org
We are compiling a list of all our BC Alumni authors and their works.
If you would like to be included please contact
kdwyer@burkecatholic.org

A writer never has a vacation.

For a writer life consists of either
writing or thinking about writing.
~Eugene Ionesco
BC Alumni Giving

ReVitalize, ReEngage, ReConnect

Office of Alumni and Advancement

Your gift will have an immediate impact on all BCHS students.

Light the way for today’s students, so that they can find their way to impact
the world.

To make your gift today, please visit

www.burkecatholic.com

To double the impact of your donation check to see if your company participates in a matching
gift program - please visit

https://doublethedonation.com/BCHS
 If you would like to be in-
cluded in the next news-
letter or have a Milestone
or story you would like to
share, contact Karen Dwyer:
kdwyer@burkecatholic.org

Contact Information
John S. Burke Catholic High School
Office of Admissions, Alumni and Advancement
80 Fletcher St, Goshen, NY 10924
(845) 294-5481 ext 132

burkecatholic.com
facebook.com/burkecatholichighschool
facebook.com/BCadmissionsandadvancement
twitter.com/burkecatholichs
instagram.com/burkecatholichs