News Archives

The Loyola community gathered to celebrate a beautiful All Saints Day Mass on Friday, November 1, with Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, presiding. In his homily, Campus Minister Rev. Stanislaw Czarnecki, SJ, encouraged students to find joy and happiness in the present moment.

Loyola captured the Chicago Catholic League Blue Division title with an impressive 31-7 victory over Mount Carmel on Friday, October 25, advancing to the first round of the IHSA playoffs. Loyola will host Belleville East on Friday, November 1, at 6:30 p.m. at Hoerster Field.

The boys’ cross country team placed 9th at the IHSA Regional Championship on Saturday, October 26.

The Loyola Academy Fall Band Concert was held in the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, October 16. The concert featured music from popular artists such as Katy Perry, John Denver, Taylor Swift, and more.

The girls’ cross country team finished in fourth place at the IHSA Regional Championship on Saturday, October 26. The team also qualified for the IHSA Sectional Championship.

On Wednesday, October 23, Loyola Academy celebrated a community-favorite tradition—Fall Flavor Fest! As both a fundraising opportunity for clubs and a celebration of our vibrant community, it’s no wonder the resurgence of Fall Flavor Fest has become a popular event at Loyola. With 30 clubs participating in this year’s festivities, the event is poised to once again become a beloved annual tradition.

The Loyola Academy Fall Orchestra Concert was held in the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, October 22. The concert featured music by Leonard Bernstein, Freddie Mercury, and Yiruma.

The varsity girls' cross country team finished in sixth place at the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference (GCAC) championship. This weekend, the team will compete at the IHSA Regional Championship.

The varsity boys’ cross country team finished seventh at the Chicago Catholic League championship.

The boys’ varsity soccer team competed in the regional semifinal game against New Trier on Tuesday, October 22.

Congratulations to the varsity field hockey team for winning the sectional semifinal game 4-0. 

On Thursday, October 10, Loyola Academy Choirs presented their annual fall concert titled What the Heart Wants. The concert was inspired by "Until Even the Angels," a poem by American poet Dorothy Walters, and featured songs arranged by Roger Emerson, Alan Billingsley, and Mark Brymer.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15, and all month long at Loyola, there were opportunities for students to learn more about Hispanic culture.

Loyola Academy recently welcomed alumna Haroula Rose '98 as a guest artist to teach our Honors Acting Studio and Honors Theatre Studio classes.

On Thursday, October 10, Mr. Shearon's architecture students took a field trip downtown to explore the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) and some of the world's "best-in-class" architectural landmarks along the Chicago River.

On Friday, October 4, Dumbach Scholars Great Art students took a field trip to the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) and the Art Institute of Chicago.

The Class of 1964 celebrated their 60-year reunion this past weekend—wrapping up another fantastic reunion season here at Lake and Laramie!

We were thrilled to host the Class of 1979 for their 45th reunion on October 11 and 12. It was a weekend filled with opportunities for alumni to reconnect, reminisce, and have fun together.

Over 150 Rambler parents and guardians gathered on Saturday, October 5, for the third annual Rambler Parent Organization (RPO) Oktoberfest, hosted outdoors on the Pasquesi Piazza courtyard and the Foley-O'Donnell Athletic Commons.

Each quarter, the Physical Education Department recognizes students as "Ramblers of the Quarter" for their hard work and effort in PE. These students are selected based on four important criteria: excellent performance, unusual service for others, special accomplishment, and significant improvement. Please join us in congratulating the following students who earned this PE distinction for the third quarter: Mary Grace Connolly '28, Jackson DeCrane '28, Addison Drehkoff '28, Niko Odiotti '28, Grant Alley '27, Kinsley Fitzgerald '27, Liana Muslic '27, and Luke Wirtschoreck '27.

On Saturday, October 5, in a beautiful venue at Moraine Valley College, the Loyola Academy Girls Freshmen/Sophomore (F/S) tennis team won the 2024 Championship in the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference (GCAC) Red Division Tournament!

On Friday, October 4, the Classes of 2019 and 2014 reunited for a fun-filled happy hour to celebrate their 5 and 10-year reunions. Ramblers packed into Bernie's Tap & Grill in Wrigleyville to share memories and stories of their endeavors since graduating—completing college, starting a career, or even traveling the globe.

On Wednesday, October 2, at the Glencoe Golf Club, the boys' varsity golf team took home third place at the IHSA Regionals with a score of 312.

The Loyola girls' varsity golf team showcased their skills at the IHSA 2A regional tournament held at Glenview Golf Club, finishing tied for 7th place. The standout performers, Abbey Riekse '26 and Macy Schultz '26, not only led the team but also earned spots in the upcoming IHSA sectional on October 7 at Bonnie Dundee Golf Club.

This weekend, the Classes of 1984, 1994, 1999, and 2004 celebrated their milestone reunions at Loyola Academy!

The Class of 1984 had an early start to their 40th reunion weekend as they spent the day catching up on the links at Wilmette Golf Club on Friday, September 27. Later that evening, the class was joined by fellow 1984 Regina Dominican and St. Louise de Marillac High School graduates for a special "19th-hole" reception during which John Joyce '84 took a moment to reflect on his time as a student at Loyola.

Loyola Academy is proud to recognize the following eight seniors as Commended Students in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program: Elizabeth Edwards, Caroline G. McAnally, Patrick C. McCurry, Devin E. McKenna, Lia R. Nafe, Cooper J. Nelson, Riley G. Prince, Brynn C. Ryan, Patrick J. Shaughnessy, and Lilian Stumpf.

Loyola Academy's Varsity and JV Golf teams won the CCL Championships at Cog Hill Golf Course on Monday, September 23. Go Ramblers!

Members of the Class of 1974 gathered to celebrate their 50th Rambler Reunion over a fun-filled weekend on September 20 and 21.

On the morning of Sunday, September 22, we welcomed the newest members of Dumbach, Clavius, and STEAM Scholars at the annual Induction Mass in the Loyola Academy Chapel.

In early September, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation named five Loyola Academy students National Merit semifinalists. The National Merit Scholarship Program honors individual students who show exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Congratulations to John Ehlert, Martin Raphael Gonzalez, Gustav Koh, Seiichi Villacarlos, and Ethan Santiago.

It was a bright, sunny day at North Shore Country Club in Glenview as alumni, parents, and friends of Loyola Academy gathered for the sold-out 30th annual Ramblers Golf Outing on Monday, September 16. As we celebrate three decades of this beloved event, we proudly reflect on its rich history and incredible impact—having contributed over $250,000 to Loyola's Needy Family Fund!

Last week, Ramblers showcased their school spirit and support for the fall sports teams during Fall Spirit Week. This year's theme, "CandyLAnd," brought a sweet twist to the festivities. Students enjoyed dress-down days and activities like Bean Boozled, Loyola Guess Who, bingo, candy relays, and a Candyland scavenger hunt, with the chance to win exciting prizes.

A little rain didn't stop more than 350 Rambler parents from gathering outside the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center for the annual Parent Welcome Mixer on Thursday, September 5. The casual event, sponsored by the Rambler Parent Organization (RPO), encouraged parents and guardians to mix, mingle, and meet new friends.

On Sunday, September 8, Rambler grandparents and their grandchildren celebrated Mass in the East Gym with Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, as part of our annual Grandparent-Student Mass and Reception, hosted by the Rambler Parent Organization (RPO).

On Wednesday, August 28, students filled the East Gym for Loyola Academy's annual Cocurricular Fair. During flex periods, Ramblers browsed rows of creative table displays crafted by Loyola's 60+ student groups and discovered ways they could get involved in student life on campus.

The 2024–2025 school year has launched! We proudly welcomed our newest Ramblers, the incoming freshman class of 2028; and our returning students to the start of what is sure to be a wonderful year.

With more than 25,000 members, Loyola Academy's Alumni Network is the largest network of any Jesuit high school in the country. Being a graduate of Loyola is more than just being a Rambler. Our shared experiences, rooted in the Academy’s Jesuit tradition of excellence and emphasis on faith, service, and community, lay a foundation for strong connections beyond Lake and Laramie. These bonds have helped countless alumni reach their full potential in their professional and personal lives. The power of the alumni network has had a positive impact on Young Alumni Council Co-chairs Robert J. "Bo" Murray '12 and Madeline G. "Maddy" Bednar '12. In this special feature, we caught up with Bo and Maddy and learned how they turned connections into careers.

On Saturday, August 10, the Golden Graduate Parent Network—parents of graduates from the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s—along with alumni from the Classes of 1954 through 1969, gathered for the annual Golden Mass & Dinner.

The winners of this year's LA Tank Competition and student leadership traveled to Boston for a 36-hour Power Internship on June 5 and 6. This trip was especially exciting because it marked the first time the power internship was hosted in Boston. Over these two days, students met with several alumni to explore different career paths and post-graduate possibilities with college and company tours and career shadowing opportunities.

On Friday, May 31, the Loyola Academy community celebrated the end of the school year with a special Mass during their final Institute Day.

On Saturday, June 1, girls' Lacrosse defeated Benet Academy 14–5 to claim the 2024 IHSA State Championship! This is the program's third IHSA state championship and 16th championship in the program's history.

Three Ramblers have recently been selected for the Illinois Volleyball Coaches Association (IVCA) All-State teams. Nathan Chi '24 (third team), Stef Kins '24 (first team), and Jack Lopez '24 (second team) will be honored at the Boys' Volleyball State Finals on Saturday, June 1, in Hoffman Estates. Congratulations and Go Ramblers!

On Friday, May 24, the boys' lacrosse team triumphed over New Trier to win the sectional championship. They advanced to the super sectional, where they put up a valiant effort but ultimately lost. Congratulations to the boys' lacrosse team on an excellent season.

The boys' track team secured a 13th place finish at the IHSA State Championship meet held at Eastern Illinois University. Enoch Appiah-Kubi '24 achieved all-state honors by placing 2nd in the Triple Jump with a mark of 47' 5" and 6th in the Long Jump at 22' 6.5". The 4x200m Relay team, consisting of Emmanuel Ofosu '24, JT Kurtzweil '24, Miles Lyons '26, and Nick Arogundade '24, also earned all-state honors by finishing 5th. Additionally, Nick Arogundade '24 placed 10th in the 300m Hurdles, and the 4x400m Relay team, featuring JT Kurtzweil '24, Aidan O’Sullivan '24, Nick Arogundade '24, and Miles Lyons '26, finished 15th. Congratulations, Ramblers!

On Thursday, May 23, the boys' volleyball team triumphed over Niles North to win the regional championship. They progressed to the sectional semi-final on Saturday, May 25, where they defeated Barrington, securing their place in the sectional championship. In an impressive performance, the boys overcame New Trier to claim the sectional championship and advance to the state championship tournament, which will take place on Friday, May 31, at 1:00 p.m. at Hoffman Estates High School. This marks only the second time in the school's history that the volleyball team has reached the state championship series. Check our website for updates as the tournament progresses.

The Principal's Office and Student Activities recently hosted a variety of special events to celebrate our 2024 graduating Ramblers. The senior class enjoyed every moment of these final opportunities together as they prepared to embrace their new status as Loyola Academy alumni.

Senior Ramblers and their parents/guardians gathered in Loyola Academy's East Gym on Sunday, May 19, to celebrate the 2024 Baccalaureate Mass, held each spring to honor the graduating class. Rev. Stan Czarnecki, SJ, delivered an insightful, engaging, and memorable homily.

Congratulations to the girls' lacrosse team on winning the sectional championship. They triumphed over New Trier High School 10-9 in a thrilling four-overtime game, with Emily Couri '25 scoring twice in overtime and Keira Cushing '25 netting the game-winner. The team then advanced to the super sectional, where they defeated Evanston 21-6, securing a spot in the IHSA state championship. The state championship semi-finals game will be held on Friday, May 31, at 5:00 p.m. against Hinsdale Central at Hinsdale Central High School. Check our website for updates as the series progresses. 

On Saturday, May 25, Loyola Academy celebrated its 114th Commencement Exercises with thousands of loved ones present to commemorate the occasion. A time-honored tradition, the Class of 2024 was dressed in black or white dresses and white tuxedo jackets as they proudly processed through Northwestern University's Welsh-Ryan Arena. Accompanied by Sir Edward Elgar’s renowned score, they gathered to celebrate one another for the final time as classmates.

The Loyola Academy community celebrated its Sending Forth Mass on Friday, May 17. The Mass is an annual celebration of the school year, a recognition of the outstanding efforts of distinguished students and faculty and a sendoff for the senior class.

The varsity girls' soccer team defeated Maine South in the IHSA 3A Regional Championship. It was a great team win with goals scored by Emily Plovanich '24, Izzy Garcia '25, and Lily Berhalter '26. The Ramblers fell to New Trier in the IHSA 3A Sectional on Tuesday, May 21, ending a spectacular season.

On Wednesday, May 15, 32 student athletes from Loyola Academy officially committed to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level by signing National Letters of Intent (NLI). Their commitments span a variety of prestigious institutions across the country, showcasing Loyola Academy's strong tradition of excellence in both academics and athletics.

Congratulations to the following students and their families:

The Rambler tennis team competed last weekend, May 17–18, at the highly competitive New Trier Sectional. The doubles team of Danny Birmingham '24 and Sam Cho '24 continued their impressive play and advanced to the state tournament. This is the third consecutive trip for Danny and the second in a row for Sam. Special thanks to Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, for coming out to support the squad!

The boys' track team competed in the IHSA Sectional competition on Thursday, May 16, and qualified three individuals and two relay teams for the State Championship meet next weekend. Enoch Appiah-Kubi '24 qualified in the long jump and triple jump, winning both events. Nick Arogundade '24 qualified in the 110-meter hurdles (second place) and the 300-meter hurdles (first place). Emmanuel Ofosu '24 qualified in the 100-meter dash, running a qualifying time of 11.07. The 4x200-meter relay team of Emmanuel Ofosu '24, J.T. Kurzweil '24, Miles Lyons '26, and Nick Arogundade '24 qualified by placing first, setting a new school outdoor record time of 1:27.77 in the process. The 4x400-meter relay team of J.T. Kurtzweil '24, Aidan O'Sullivan '24, Louis Hebson '25, and Miles Lyons '26 qualified by placing second, running 3:23.77.

Parker Lofstrom-Austin '24 took center stage on Monday, May 13, as he unveiled his meticulously crafted roller coaster project to fellow students in the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center. Months of dedication and hard work culminated in a captivating presentation that not only showcased Lofstrom-Austin's engineering prowess but also ignited a passion for physics and design among his peers.

The 2024 Spring Band Concert, held on Thursday, May 9, featured all of Loyola's concert ensembles, including Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, and Beginning Instrumental students. The program included classic and contemporary works written by significant composers including Antonin Dvořăk, Stevie Wonder, and Frank Ticheli.

Loyola Academy's Spring Orchestra Concert took place on Wednesday, May 7. It featured out symphony orchestra, beginning guitar, guitar ensemble, and combined orchestras playing music by Ben E. King, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Harold Arlen.

On a beautiful evening in May, Rambler moms enjoyed hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, and camaraderie as they soaked in gorgeous golden hour views at Sunset Ridge Country Club during the annual Mothers Connect & Celebrate Reception. This annual event gives mothers and female guardians of Loyola students an opportunity to re-engage and welcome mothers of incoming students to the Loyola Academy community.

The varsity track & field team clinched the Catholic League championship, surpassing runner-up St. Laurence on Thursday, May 9, in the inaugural track meet under the lights at Sachs Stadium. Leading the charge were Nick Arogundade '24, securing individual titles in the 110m and 300m Hurdles, and clinching runner-up in the 200m Dash, alongside Enoch Appiah-Kubi '24, who claimed victory in the Long Jump and Triple Jump events.

On Monday, May 13, the frosh/soph boys' tennis team brought home the CCL championship once again! The team scored 42 points with two first place finishes, two second place finishes, and one third place finish. Congratulations!

Fresh from securing 5th place out of 16 teams at the NaperValley Invitational, the LA Boys' Tennis team showcased its dominance by defending its title at the CCL tournament. The squad amassed a total of 46 points, surpassing the runner-up St. Ignatius, which earned 32 points.

Sponsored by the Ignatian Service Learning and Engagement department, the "Putting Love in Action" Symposium, which took place from April 29 to May 3, has concluded a week-long exploration into themes deeply rooted in St. Ignatius' call to connect faith with justice and Fr. Arrupe's invitation to help center a Jesuit education on being women and men for others. Throughout the event, 38 distinguished speakers, 13 Ignatian Service Learning student class presentations, and over 144 Theology class periods were organized, providing a broad array of discussions and insights on social issues, service, and the pursuit of justice.

The Loyola Academy Rowing Association had an impressive showing at the Midwest Scholastic Rowing Championships, held on Kent Lake in Milford, MI, on May 11–12. The team earned six noteworthy medals and qualified several boats for the Scholastic Rowing Association of America's National Championships, which will be held on Cooper River in Pennsauken, NJ, on May 24–25.

Congratulations to the girls' track team and the following athletes who have qualified for the IHSA State Track and Field Championship this weekend, May 16 to May 18, at Eastern Illinois University:

• 3200-meter run: Jane Lynch '25, clocking in at 10:55.
• 4x400m relay: Lieselle Curry '25, Casey Loder '24, Katie Hussman '24, Kathryn San Roman '24, achieving a time of 4:04.02.
• Triple Jump: Ashley Banaszek '26, leaping 11.04 meters.

Congratulations to Zeb O'Hara '24, a 2024 NCWIT Aspirations in Computing (AiC) High School Award recipient, who was selected from more than 3,300 applicants from across the US and Canada. This award celebrates 9th-12th grade students for their computing-related interests and achievements and encourages them to pursue their passions. Recipients are recognized for their achievements, leadership, commitment to computing, and plans for post-secondary education. Over 25,000 students have been honored since 2007. Congratulations Zeb.

On Friday, May 3, Loyola Academy students presented the Spring Dance Showcase, which featured performances by Honors Dance, Dance 2, Orchesis Dance Company, Step Team, Asian Youth Group, along with cast members from The Children of Eden, Loyola’s spring musical production. Together, these groups put on a beautiful performance in the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center.

On Saturday, May 4, Loyola hosted the GCAC Track Championship, where our team secured an impressive second-place finish in the GCAC Track and Field Championship. The performance by the girls' track and field team was the most impressive in school history, breaking four conference records.

On April 19, sixty-seven students in AP Art History visited the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Art Institute of Chicago to view their latest exhibitions. This field trip supported their study of global contemporary art, the final unit in AP Art History. It also served as a review of artworks from the first and second semesters. Much of the work the students encountered addressed themes of identity, a focus of the Dumbach Great Art curriculum.

Loyola Academy's Wilmette campus was alive with excitement on Thursday, May 2, as Hoerster Field at Sachs Stadium hosted its inaugural game under permanent lights. This historic occasion signaled a new era for the Ramblers, with the varsity girls' soccer team facing off against Fenwick High School and emerging victorious with a score of 2–0.

The McGrath Family Performing Arts Center was transformed into a vibrant gallery space showcasing the culmination of months of creativity and dedication by its visual arts and design students during the 2024 Visual Arts and Design Show. The exhibition offers a glimpse into the artistic journey of each student, highlighting the process behind their remarkable creations.

Congratulations to Molly Niego '24 who was named the 2024 Illinois Dancer of the Year for the North 3A Region by 8 Count Audio! Molly was selected out of all northern Illinois high schools from the IHSA 3A division.

In April, the LA Tank program wrapped its ninth year by awarding students an opportunity to collaborate and present their ideas to a panel of Loyola community entrepreneurs. The program is structured to enable teams of students to solve an existing problem with a new product or idea. This year's theme, Anything But An App, challenged Ramblers to think beyond app development and ideate physical products.

Wrapping up what team member Jackson Humphrey called "a remarkable year," Loyola's lower level (2nd-year) Certamen team took second place — by a wide margin — at this year's IHSA State Finals Latin competition, held Monday, April 15, at Chicago's Whitney Young Magnet High School.

Last week's Illinois Directors of Student Activities (IDSA) conference was a celebration of dedication and excellence, particularly shining a spotlight on the outstanding faculty and staff of Loyola Academy who were honored for their contributions to student activities.

A group of faculty and staff members embarked on an enlightening pilgrimage across Spain over spring break, retracing the footsteps of St. Ignatius of Loyola through a captivating itinerary that spanned several historic cities. Led by Loyola Vice President of Mission, Ministry, and Identity Alice Kearney Alwin ‘98 and President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, the trip provided pilgrims with a deep immersion into the life and legacy of the esteemed saint, while also delving into the rich cultural tapestry of the Iberian Peninsula.

Loyola's Spring Choir Concert, titled "The Distance Between You & I," took place on Thursday, April 18, and featured students in concert choir, contemporary vocal ensemble, chorale, chamber singers, combined choirs, and Loyola's a capella group Nothin' But Treble. 

On Sunday, April 14, student council members participated in a community cleanup day clearing litter on Frontage Road between the forest preserve and Loyola Academy. This effort, in anticipation of Earth Day, aimed to enhance a cleaner, healthier environment for all to appreciate. A heartfelt thank you to the students and volunteers who generously gave their time and effort to enhance the beauty of our campus and the surrounding areas. This event showcases our dedication to the community, environment, and the mission of Loyola Academy — embodying the spirit of "women and men for others."

During the month of March, Women Leaders of Loyola, Women in STEAM, By: Women, and Student Council led the school community in celebrating Women's History Month with a number of reflective activities and learning opportunities. One of this year's focus was on celebrating women's sports. This was especially fitting since Loyola's girls' basketball team wrapped up an undefeated 2023–24 season as State Champions in early March.

On Wednesday, March 27, Loyola Academy honored 17 faculty members who have earned tenure status. The achievement of tenure is a milestone in an individual's career, and Loyola is proud to recognize members of our community who have embraced the desire to be women and men for others.

Biology students recently had the opportunity to meet over Zoom with Dr. April Blakeslee, assistant professor of biology at East Carolina University, who helped students analyze raw data sets to calculate the biodiversity index from 64 different sites over a six month period. "Sharing the research process and the opportunity to analyze complex data engages students and allows for opportunities to make connections beyond the textbook," says Science Teacher Mrs. Cynthia Blakeslee. 

Loyola Academy Performing Arts and Thespian Troupe 4729 performed Children of Eden to delighted audiences on March 22–24, with a special matinee for students from Chicago Jesuit Academy and East Lake Academy grade schools on Thursday, March 21. Freely based on the Book of Genesis, Children of Eden is the heartfelt and funny story of Adam, Eve, Noah, and the "Father" who created them—with show-stopping musical numbers from Stephen Schwartz, the composer of Wicked and Pippin.

On Sunday, March 24, nearly 300 Rambler parents and students, including members of Loyola's incoming Class of 2028, participated in the annual Family Mass & Day of Service, sponsored by the Rambler Parent Organization (RPO). The Family Mass & Day of Service has been a Loyola tradition since 2013 and is one of the many ways the Loyola community fulfills its mission to be women and men for others.

On Tuesday, March 19, 50 Loyola Academy political science students served as election judges in the Illinois primary elections in locations across Chicago and suburban Cook County. Before heading out to polling locations, these Ramblers completed a four hour training session. Other students volunteered to work for various campaigns, clocking a minimum of twenty hours, keeping a log, and writing a reflection about what they learned.

On Monday, March 18, Loyola Academy's College Counseling Department hosted its annual College Fair for students and parents to begin the college exploration process. With over 150 colleges and universities and over 600 Ramblers in attendance, Loyola's College Fair remains one of the largest private high school college fairs in the state of Illinois.  Entrance to the fair was staggered to allow juniors and their parents to enter first, optimizing their time, followed by sophomores and their parents slightly later.

The Loyola Academy Hockey Club is proud to announce that Loyola Academy Gold player Charlie Baine '24 has been selected as a member of the 2023-24 Blackhawk Alumni All-Star team. This team is selected by various varsity coaches and members of the alumni and is based on an outstanding performance throughout the season.

On Wednesday, March 6, students in AP Spanish Literature & Culture course participated in a unique field trip to the Newberry Library in downtown Chicago for a chance to explore primary documents from the 1500-1700s as part of the unit "Testimonios from the Exploration of the New World," in which students compare and contrast indigenous perspectives with those of the Spaniards through course readings.

On Saturday, March 9, members of the Loyola Academy community celebrated Ramble 2024: Inspire Excellence, Transform Lives. Thanks to the generosity of Loyola parents, alumni, and friends supporting our Tuition Assistance Program! Your support makes a difference in the lives of many of our students, and we thank you.

In September 2022, Loyola Academy launched a partnership with Special Gifts Theatre (SGT), a not-for-profit organization that provides individuals who possess a wide array of special needs (physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and learning) the opportunity to experience the joy and enrichment that theatre arts can bring. Now in its second year, the SGT x LA Peer Mentor Program continues to give Ramblers the opportunity to work one-on-one with a Special Gifts Theatre buddy in the beautiful McGrath Family Performing Arts Center. Together this spring they put on a magical performance of "High School Musical Jr" on March 2 and 3!

Loyola Academy's AP Studio Art and Design Exhibition, now in its thirteenth year, is an annual celebration of student work in the visual arts held at the Evanston Art Center (EAC). Many of the students exhibiting work in the show have been in art courses at Loyola for two to four years and come from the following disciplines: studio (drawing, painting), graphics, photography, and architecture. The opportunity to present in a professional gallery is a unique and valuable experience for students.

Each quarter, the Physical Education Department recognizes students as "Ramblers of the Quarter" for their hard work and effort in PE. These students are selected based on four important criteria: excellent performance, exemplary service for others, special accomplishment, and significant improvement. Please join us in congratulating the following students who earned this PE distinction for the third quarter: Chloe Mangel '27, Whitney Beil '27, Spencer Schmalz '27, Ryan Lam '27, Michelle Dutkin '26, Lola Polerecky '26, Kai Calcutt '26, and Brandon Batzaya '26.

On Saturday, March 2, Loyola Academy students traveled to St. Ignatius College Prep for the biannual Latinx Youth Conference. The goal of the conference is to empower and unify the Latinx community of Chicago by building connections and developing leadership skills while embracing the uniqueness of all cultures within the Latinx community. The theme for this year's conference was Building for the Future.

The Winter Orchestra Concert took place on Thursday, March 7, in Loyola Academy's Leemputte Family Theater and featured the combined orchestras performing music composed by Stephen Sanchez, Alan Menken, Hayley Williams, and more.

On Saturday, March 2, Loyola Academy and Francis W. Parker School hosted the fourth annual Young Women of Color (YWOC) Symposium, which led over 200 sixth through twelfth grade participants in a series of workshops, affinity group sessions, and activities to create a space for conversation, connection, and community for students who self-identify as young women of color. The day's conversations were guided by the 2024 theme: Find Your Path.

This past weekend, Loyola's DECA business skills chapter sent eighteen students, led by Chapter President Dia Drossos '25, to the Illinois State Competition in Rosemont. Two Loyola students placed highly in their respective events, qualifying for the National DECA Competition in California next month! Sophomore Emilia Nelson took second place in the state in the Principles of Marketing event, and senior A.J. Tomaska placed second in the state in the Principles of Finance event. All other Loyola team members achieved strong levels of competency. 

On Wednesday, February 28, Loyola Academy Choirs presented their annual winter concert titled "The Distance Between Then & Now." The concert featured songs from Billie Eilish, The Beatles, and Kirk Franklin.

On Thursday, February 29, roughly thirty young alumni gathered at the Hook and Ladder in Lincoln Park for a night of networking and socializing with fellow Ramblers hosted by the Loyola Academy Young Alumni Council (YAC), formerly known as the PLC.

From February 26 through March 1, Loyola's Hope Squad hosted a special "Week of Hope" to spread positivity across campus and raise awareness for suicide prevention. Hope Squad is a student organization that seeks to prevent youth suicide through education and the destigmatization of mental illness. Hope Squads are implemented in high schools across the country as peer-to-peer mentorship programs that build a culture of care and support among students.

The Loyola Academy girls' varsity basketball team defeated the Nazareth Academy Roadrunners 44-40 to become the 2024 IHSA 4A State Champions! This is the 3rd state championship title in program history (1997, 1998, 2024). Join us in congratulating all our players and Coach Schoenecker & his coaching staff on a perfect ending to an incredible 38-0 undefeated season.

Congratulations to the boys' varsity basketball team on their IHSA regional championship. The team defeated Niles West 54-32 and advanced to the IHSA sectional semi final but lost. The team finished the season 27-7. Congratulations to the entire 2024 team on a great season.

Congratulations to the boys' swim team on their 12th place finish at the IHSA state championship. Congrats to Gus Koh '25, Devon Bone '26, Velizar Filipov '26, and Carter Tiv '25 for finishing in 5th place in the 200 yard medley relay and 9th place in the 400 free relay, breaking the team's record. Congrats to Velizar Filipov '26 on finishing in 10th place in the 100 butterfly, Gus Koh '25 for finishing in 10th place in the 100 back, and Devon Bone '26 who broke the team's record in the 100 breast.

Congrats to Harlee Hiller '25 on her 2nd place finish in the IHSA girls' wrestling state championship. Harlee has made it to the state championship for three consecutive years. Congrats, Harlee!

On Thursday, February 22, Loyola Academy alumni artists and members of our community gathered for an exciting preview of the inaugural Alumni Visual Arts Exhibition, which debuted at the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center and will run through Monday, March 18. This exhibition celebrated the exceptional accomplishments of fourteen alumni artists who submitted their work during an open call period at the beginning of 2024.

During the month of February, Loyola Academy students had the opportunity to explore and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans to our country and our community. Through powerful displays and reflective activities, Ramblers were encouraged to pause and consider the impact and influence of Black history. This year’s special focus was intersectionality.

On Friday, February 23, Loyola hosted International Night, an annual celebration of the unique cultures and traditions that enrich our Loyola community. Guests at this year's International Night, or I-Night, enjoyed an array of performances from a number of Loyola's heritage clubs including:

Now in its 46th year, the Archdiocese of Chicago’s African American Heritage Prayer Service celebrates and recognizes educators and students for their contribution to Catholic education by bestowing African American Heritage Awards to student and adult leaders. This year's celebration, themed "Rooted in Greatness and Growing Towards God," was held on Friday, February 23, at Holy Name Cathedral with hundreds of guests in attendance. Yvette Mensah '23, Loyola Academy graduate and recipient of the 2023 Student Leadership Award, presented Esther Debrah '24 with the Henriette Delille Award for Student Leadership.

Senior Gianna Figlioli was the recipient of this year’s Good Citizens Award, sponsored by the Skokie Valley Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Created in 1934, this honorary award recognizes the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities.

On Thursday, February 15, members of the LA Bar Association gathered to honor Matt Devine '85, executive partner at White & Case LLP, and Jim Murphy '90, former assistant state's attorney, at the annual LA Bar Association Luncheon.

Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, announced that Ms. Alice Kearney Alwin ’98 of Chicago has been named the school’s next vice president of mission, ministry, and identity.

Congratulations to the boys' swim team for their 3rd place finish at the IHSA sectional on February 17. The team qualified 2 relays and 7 individual events for the IHSA State Championship this weekend.

Congratulations to the girls’ basketball team on their IHSA 4A Regional Championship. The team defeated Taft High school, 65-29. The team advanced to the IHSA sectional semi final and defeated Glenbrook North 62-32 to advance to the IHSA Sectional Championship vs Maine South at Maine South on Thursday, February 22, at 7:00 p.m.  Gates open at 6:15 p.m. Limited tickets will be sold at the door. All other ticket sales are available on GoFan. Come out and support the girls basketball team! 

Students in Honors Native American Literature, taught by Mrs. Colleen Whelan, attended “Opening the Archive, St. Charles Mission School” at Marquette University on Tuesday, February 6. The discussion was part of Marquette’s Mission Week programming, which brings opportunities for students to listen to inspirational speakers, participate in service, pray, worship, reflect, and take time for silence each day. The evening’s discussion was led by Alexandra C. “Alex” Gambacorta ’14, a former student of Mrs. Whelan. Alex graduated from Marquette in 2018 and subsequently joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest, where she taught at St. Charles Mission School on the Apsáalooke Reservation in Pryor, Montana.

Congratulations to Coach Matt Collum, his staff, and the Loyola wrestling team on a historic season. Harlee Hiller '25, Kai Calcutt '26, Quinn Herbert '24, Gavin Pardilla '26, James Hemmila '26, and Joey Herbert '25 competed at sectionals and all 6 wrestlers qualified for the IHSA state championship. The team competed very well. Congratulations to Quinn Herbert for his 2nd place finish and Kai Calcutt who was named State Champion. Loyola finished in 8th place overall. Harlee Hiller will represent Loyola this weekend at the IHSA Girls Wrestling State Championship in Bloomington. Good luck, Harlee!

Congratulations to the following members of the boys' basketball team who were recognized by the Chicago Catholic League (CCL): Miles Boland '24, All Conference-1st Team; Brendan Loftus '25, All Conference-4th Team; Andrew Hollerich '24, All Conference, Honorable Mention. The team will compete in the IHSA Regional at Maine East on Wednesday, February 21, at 6:00 p.m.

On Wednesday, February 14, Loyola celebrated Ash Wednesday with an all school Mass in the West Gym. During the homily, Campus Minister Rev. Stanislaw Czarnecki, SJ, reminded students of Jesus' invitation to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving during this holy season.

There's really no such thing as a "home field advantage" when it comes to Latin competitions, just students in classrooms, answering tough questions on language, history, culture, and myth. But you might have wondered if you watched the performance of Loyola Academy's Lower Level (second-year) Certamen team at LA on Tuesday, February 6. Overcoming a narrow six-question regular-season deficit, the team took control in the first round and pressed ahead in rounds two and three to win the Northern Region Illinois Certamen League lower-level title and advance to the state tournament coming up this spring at North Side College Prep. There, they will compete against the champions of the five other Illinois regions.

On Wednesday, February 7, sixteen Loyola Academy student athletes signed a National Letter of Intent (NLI) to play their respective sport at the collegiate level. Congratulations to the following students and their parents!

On Friday, February 2, Rambler daughters and dads enjoyed a night of dinner, dancing, and carnival fun at the 2024 D4: Dinner Dance for Daughters and Dads, held at the Evanston Golf Club in Skokie! D4, which alternates annually with Mom Prom, was a wonderful night our Rambler daughters and their dads will not soon forget.

Loyola hosted the MCAC Championship swim meets February 3–4. The varsity Swim team finished 2nd in the conference. Event champions included: 200 medley relay (Velizar Filipov '26, Devon Bone '26, Max Rice '24, Carter Tiv '25), 100 fly - Velizar Filipov '26, 100 back - Velizar Filipov '26, 100 breast - Max Rice '24.

The team took 4th place with five sectional qualifiers and one alternate. Regional champs were James Hemmila '26, Gavin Pardilla '26, Kai Calcutt '26, and Joey Herbert '25. Placing second was Quinn Herbert '24. Quentin Williams '26 finished 4th. Boys will be wrestling at the Barrington Sectionals on Friday and Saturday, February 9–10.

Harlee Hiller '25 took first place at the first ever IHSA Girls' Regional tournament, registering four pins in her matches. Harlee will compete at the Evanston Sectionals on Friday and Saturday, February 9–10. 

Congratulations to LAG players Charlie Baine '24, Chris Sipe '24, Liam Finegan '24, and Charlie Trapp '27 on being selected for All SHL 2nd team and the 2024 Boys High School All-State Team.

Congratulations to the varsity girls basketball team! Their hard work and commitment has paid off to have a perfect regular season finishing 31-0. It's a remarkable achievement to excel in sports, demonstrating dedication, and teamwork. We are very fortunate to have two girls score 1,000 career points: senior Paige Engels and junior Aubrey Galvan. 

Congratulations to the Loyola Varsity cheer team on an amazing performance at Sectionals! Varsity hit a zero deduction routine and received their highest score of the season!

On Friday, January 26, 28 Ramblers represented Loyola at the DECA regional competition. This is the first year that Loyola has been a part of the DECA program. Students participated in a number of solo events, like Personal Finance Literacy and Sports and Entertainment Marketing, and partner events, including Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making, Hospitality Team Decision Making, and Sports and Entertainment Marketing Team Decision Making

Loyola Academy senior Milannia Martin-Hayes has been awarded admission to Connecticut College through The Posse Foundation, which works to improve college access and attests that the key to a promising future for our nation rests on the ability of strong leaders from diverse backgrounds to develop solutions to complex social problems. Fewer than five percent of applicants nationwide are selected as Posse Scholars.  

Congratulations to the JV and Varsity cheer teams as they competed at their conference competition this past weekend! Both teams showcased amazing performances which resulted in JV taking home 3rd place and Varsity taking home 4th place.

On Tuesday, January 9, the Village of Wilmette approved an ordinance that grants Loyola Academy with approval to move forward with its proposed lighting plan. The decision comes after the school conducted a months-long process of community outreach and dialogue between school officials and surrounding residents. The process concluded after two Zoning Board meetings (September 6 and October 11) and a vote to approve a drafting of an ordinance by the Village Trustees on November 14.

Our school community gathered on Thursday, January 11, for a special assembly to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.