The Class of 1974 Celebrates its 50th Reunion

The weekend kicked off on Friday with Pickleball at Northfield Park District. After an afternoon of friendly competition, alumni enjoyed some Rambler football as they cheered Loyola Academy on against Brother Rice (final: LA 28–Brother Rice 21) from their VIP seating along the North end zone.

The festivities continued on Saturday as Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, celebrated a special 50th Reunion Mass in the Chapel. Classmates who have passed away were honored in a memorial video that played before Mass.

After Mass, senior Mayode Oluwole addressed alumni and spoke about her Rambler journey saying, "Loyola has prepared me not only to succeed but to lead. To be a leader, a learner, and a servant to those around me. So, as I look toward the future, I do so with the same spirit that first brought me here: eager. Eager to grow, eager to serve, and forever filled with rah-rah Rambler pride."

Next, '74 alumni took a class photo on the stage of the Leemputte Family Theater to commemorate their reunion before heading off to the official class party in the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center. Director of Alumni Relations Ashley Sanks '10 welcomed alumni and their guests before dinner was served. Alumni enjoyed a beautiful evening with great food and lively conversation.

During dinner, Fr. Greg gave a brief update on the school and answered some questions from the alumni. Then, Bill Cerney '74 took to the mic to reflect on his time as a student at Loyola and how our Jesuit mission and values have impacted him throughout his life.

Conversation and camaraderie continued into the night as members of the Class of 1974 mingled in the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center. We hope this special weekend inspires future gatherings and the continued connection between this class.

"My time at Loyola holds a very special place in my heart and I remember all those who touched and influenced my life—priests, faculty, coaches, and classmates,” reflected Bob Falk '74 after the celebration. "I had such a great time reconnecting with my classmates, some of whom I haven't seen in 50 years, and remembering our time together at Loyola."

We wish to extend our thanks to the Class of 1974 reunion committee:
Thomas Arens '74
Stan Banas '74
David Barry, Jr. '74
William Bransley '74
William Cerney '74
Richard Daly '74
Michael Denten '74 
Carey Dowdle '74
John Haben '74
James Hughes '74
Andrew Kassaraba '74 
David McHugh '74
Richard McMenamin '74 
Daniel Monckton, Jr. '74
Robert Murphy '74
Robert Priske '74
Donal Quinlan '74 
Sherman Reynolds '74 
John Schufreider '74

Click here to view a photo gallery from the weekend’s events!