As attendees arrived, they were greeted in the Pasquesi Piazza with beautiful music performed by talented student musicians Lyla Dedovic '29, Mia Gavino '29, and Lukas Lochnicki '29, and Loyola Academy Orchestra Director Patrick Rustandi. The event moved into the East Gym, where guests enjoyed a delicious meal and wonderful conversation. Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, took the stage to officially welcome attendees and offer a blessing before the evening’s program began.

Honorees Who Inspire Us

Firstly, the 2025 President's Medal was presented to John Dwyer '67 by his son, Brian Dwyer '95, who recognized John’s lifelong commitment to ethical leadership, mentorship, and public service. Coach Dwyer also received a warm welcome from the current girls’ Lacrosse team, who surprised their beloved coach by being there to support and celebrate him.

While Coach Dwyer’s contributions to Loyola have been vast, he claims the formula for his teams’ successes over the years was fairly simple. He encouraged his players to "always play with your faith as your foundation; in all things you do, do them the right way; honor the game; know that it is a privilege to represent Loyola; work your hardest; put the team first; and have fun. Winning is a byproduct of all of that.”

Father Greg returned to the stage to present the 2025 Rev. Daniel A. Lord, SJ, Award to Mary and Bob Pasquesi '62. Established in 1963, this award honors those who have provided distinguished service in the cause of youth. Fr. Greg spoke of the Pasquesis’ long record of generosity in time, talents, and transformative gifts, as well as their unwavering presence in times of need.

“The Pasquesis show us what it means to build community with steady faith and open hearts. Their transformative gifts have not only helped Loyola Academy but have also changed the lives of many students. They give because they believe in what Loyola can do for the world.”

Mary and Bob graciously accepted the honor, and Bob boldly called others to think about the future of Loyola and its legacy. “...our time on earth is very short, and someday we are going to be called to account for our activities on earth. God will say, ‘You were one of the fortunate ones who attended Loyola, or you provided someone the opportunity to attend Loyola. I know what you did, but you could have done more.’ So, let’s think about that when we think about Loyola.”

Next, the 2025 Young Alumni Award was presented by Loyola Academy’s eighth President, Rev. Patrick E. McGrath, SJ, to Katie Bufalino McCarney '99, Michael Bufalino '02, Tom Bufalino '04, and Kevin Bufalino '06. The siblings were honored for embodying Loyola’s call to lead with purpose in their professions, parishes, and neighborhoods.

In his remarks, Fr. McGrath shared, “Angelo and Pat Bufalino set the course, raising four exceptional children, all rooted in the vibrancy of our Catholic faith. Their ongoing support of Loyola Academy has significantly enhanced the experience of current students, reflecting their deep commitment to the school’s mission.”

Speaking on behalf of his siblings, Michael thanked his parents for allowing them to attend Loyola Academy, stating, “It was truly one of the best decisions they helped us make.” He also recalled that “when we first came to Loyola, we knew we were coming to one of the preeminent Jesuit College Preparatory institutions. But, we didn’t fully realize the amazing community we were joining, and that the four years we were going to spend here were just laying the foundation for everything to come in our lives – the foundation to launch our careers, to become servant leaders, and ultimately the foundation to build families that are rooted in the values we learned here.”

And finally, the 2025 Educator of the Year Award was presented by Loyola Academy educator Phil Nieman to Carol Danstrom of the Math Department, whose warmth, commitment, and encouragement have shaped generations of Ramblers, and the 2025 Staff Excellence Award was presented by Advancement Officer and former head football coach John Holecek to Director of Safety and Security Greg Jacobson, who is known across campus for his steady presence, deep care for students, and daily commitment to Loyola’s safety and wellbeing.

A Call to Do More

Before closing the evening, the Lord Award recipient Bob Pasquesi '62 returned to the stage to reinforce the importance of giving the gift of a Loyola education and the responsibility we share to sustain it. He shared news of major philanthropic commitments from several generous partners, including meaningful support for the endowment, the Annual Fund, and Hope Ignites. He also invited others to join in securing a strong and vibrant future for Loyola Academy.

“We have all been blessed by Loyola. And because we have been given much, we are called to do more— for the students who are here now, and for those who will come after us.”

The celebration closed in fellowship and hope, strengthened by the reminder that Loyola Academy's mission endures because we live it together. For the Greater Glory of God—AMDG.

It's not too late to lend your support! Please consider making a gift—All proceeds support the President's strategic priorities to nurture Ignatian spirituality and enhance the academic experience.

Our Gratitude to Those Who Made This Evening Possible

Corporate Sponsors
Rev. Daniel A. Lord, SJ: Wintrust
Benefactor: Quest Food Management Services, Inc.
Patron: Loyola University Chicago and MPS Law

Individual Sponsors
Rev. Daniel A. Lord, SJ
The Pat & Angelo Bufalino Family
Mr. & Mrs. Ed Loeb
Mary & Robert Pasquesi '62
Suzanne & Bill Sullivan '72

Archangel
Erin & Michael Alvarez
Mr. & Mrs. H. Patrick Hackett Jr. '69
William A. McIntosh '57
Perry Family Charitable Foundation

Benefactor
Mrs. Katie Baisley '01 & Mr. Jamie Baisley '92

Patron
Mr. & Mrs. James W. Lyman '79
William E. McClintic Family
Laura & John Podjasek

Table Benefactors
Mrs. Kate M. Cavataio Ericson
Mrs. Caroline Keating
Mrs. Jennifer B. Marino
Ms. Kristi Lampe Naidech
Mrs. Dorothy M. Wehmer

Faculty/Staff Underwriters
Mr. Paul H. Fieberg, III '62
Ms. Kelly Mulcahy-Libel
Mr. Brian Naujokas
Mrs. MaryAnne B. O'Keefe
Mrs. Jennifer Rauworth

In-Kind Support
Ballyhoo Hospitality
BonAnno Wines
Lentino Imports

With Special Thanks
Michelle Denic
Tim Kane '86
Matt Leske '05
Loyola Academy Insignis members
Loyola Academy Maintenance Team
Loyola Academy Musicians: Lyla Dedovic '29, Mia Gavino '29, and Lukas Lochnicki '29, and Mr. Patrick Rustandi
Quest Food Management Services
Suzy Trott