Named for a line in the school's Alma Mater... the Echo Ever Proudly podcast is hosted by radio pro Brian Egan '86. Alumni, faculty, students, families can expect season 1 of the Gonzaga focused podcast to explore the rich 200 year history of the Jesuit High School in Nation's Capital.

A Gonzaga podcast? Alumni Office veterans Danny Costello '72, Snupe Harper '84 and Dave Dugan '98 share how this year's Bicentennial celebration sparked the idea. We also catch up with Gonzaga's new President Fr. Joseph Lingan S.J. '75 on his new role, and his memories of life as student 50 years ago. Click to learn more about how you can support Gonzaga.

In December 1973, Four Gonzaga parents headed to Baltimore to sell the Jesuit Provincial on their vision for the school's future. Almost 50 years later Gonzaga is celebrating it's Bicentennial continuing a 150 year run at that same iconic 19 Eye Street location. Without the success of the four horsemen, Gonzaga's story might be very different. In May, Brian visited in May with John Carmody '54, (who died July 16, 2021) and Tom Delaney '75, son of fellow horsemen, the late John Delaney '50. As the 37th Carmody - Lynn Open Golf tournament is upon us, God bless the Carmody family, and John's amazing legacy. Click to learn more about the Carmody-Lynn Open and to support Gonzaga.

When it comes to Heroes of Eye Street, the late Fr. Horace McKenna,SJ, is in his own category - potential saint. Horace may be the most impactful Jesuit to never teach in an actual Gonzaga classroom. But, oh did Fr. McKenna teach. And the world learned: Gonzaga students, fellow Jesuits, member of the St. Al's Catholic Community; all of Washington learned from Fr. McKenna how to see Christ in everyone. He died in May of 1982, but Horace's saintly legacy continues today in the McKenna Center (formerly the St. Vincent de Paul Center). The Gonzaga community will participate Saturday morning in the 5th Annual Walk4McKenna (click the link for more information) Guests: Fr. Thomas Buckley, SJ, Fr. Kevin Gillespie, SJ, and Dr. Kimberly K. Cox, Ph.D, President of The McKenna Center. Support the Bicentennial Campaign #ForeverGonzaga

At the close of the 2021 academic year in June, eleven members of the Gonzaga faculty retired with a combined 291 years of service. Among them, two of the most beloved Gonzaga figures in athletics: Coach Joe Jackson and Coach Alvin "Preacher" Maddox. Their success as championship coaches is legendary, but their importance for African American Gonzaga students across 4 decades is an even greater legacy. Brian catches up with his former track coaches and surprised them with stories and memories submitted from other alumni whose lives were impacted by these two pillars of Eye Street. Click to learn more about how you can support Gonzaga.

Making a big statement is part of Gonzaga's legacy. In 1896, in conjunction with the school's 75th Diamond Jubilee, the beautiful new "Gonzaga College Hall" opened. Building a majestic theater demonstrated the importance the Jesuits placed on the dramatic arts, and showed Gonzaga was committed to the growing Swampoodle neighborhood. Almost exactly 125 years later, Gonzaga's Sheehy Theater continues that great legacy of  producing "performers for others."  As we celebrate Gonzaga's Bicentennial, it's hard to imagine a physical structure being more associated with fond memories. Episode 5 features a GDA focused conversation with 3 GDA Hall of Fame members: Allan L'Etoile '73, Roger Schlegel '83, and Paul Buckley '86. The memorable moments, the perfect performances, and even the magical mistakes that celebrate the special community within the Gonzaga community that is the Gonzaga Dramatic Association. At the end of Part 1 of this conversation catch a bonus chat with current GDA seniors James Miller '22 and John Jerro '22. Next week in part 2, we cover the lessons and legacy of John Warman, '57, and Brother Jon King. And how recent additions of some exceptionally talented women have raised the bar for today's GDA student experience. October 16, 2021 The Sheehy Theater opens again: GDA Bicentennial Show  - get your tickets before they sell out.

Part 2 of our Gonzaga Dramatic Association focused conversation with GDA Hall of Fame members: Allan L'Etoile '73, Roger Schlegel '83, and Paul Buckley '86. This week, we cover the influence of legends like Doc Warman '57 and Brother Jon King; Allan's puppet shows; the play being "a Gift" you make to the audience; and how Paul, Roger and Allan knew they needed to add new blood to the production staff. At the end of episode 6, more GDA memories from Gonzaga President Fr. Joe Lingan, SJ '75, plus John Cosgrove regales us with his favorite Stage Crew memory. Saturday, October 16, the Gonzaga Dramatic Association is excited to stage a Bicentennial Show. Stars across 5 decades, from New York to LA, are coming back to gather on the Warman Stage in the Sheehy Theater to honor all the ways in which Gonzaga has contributed to the performing arts -- both on Eye Street and beyond. Never before has an array of talent like this been gathered on the stage for one night: singers like David Wannen '96, Katie Costabile Katinas, and Carl Sumter '79 as well as actors like Demetrius Grosse '99, Orlagh Cassidy, and John Prosky '81. There will be reunion performances from members of Irish band Shannon Tide and the cast of Newsies; a history of WZAG and the people that were there from the early days to today; stories from behind the curtain of what went on backstage during GDA productions; and tales of Gonzaga legends like Doc Warman, Chris Flannery, Bro. Jon King and Michael Bobbitt '90. There will also be performances by the current Choir, Symphonic Band, and more.  Click here and use the code G200 to reserve up to four complimentary tickets to the show!!!   

Retreat programs have always been a part of Faith Formation in Jesuit education. As we celebrate the history and heroes of Gonzaga, the Kairos retreat is a massive part of today's Gonzaga student experience. This very week, a new generation of Gonzaga Students are experiencing Kairos for the first time. They join 161 other retreat groups in a special fraternity of faith. How exactly did Kairos start at Gonzaga? The Kairos program existed at Loyola Academy in Illinois, and it caught the attention of Gonzaga Headmaster Fr. Roger Callan, S.J., who tasked Mary Ellen Whitcomb and (at the time) Mr. John Cecero, S.J. to adapt it to Gonzaga in 1984. In this visit, Fr. John Cecero, S.J., and John Cosgrove share their memories of the beginning of Kairos at Gonzaga. The seed of Kairos planted on Eye Street in 1984-85 has blossomed into something special; and its fruit has spread to Jesuit and Catholic Secondary Schools and Colleges across the Country, and Gonzaga is a major part of that story, as well. We'll also hear from current Gonzaga Campus Ministry assistant Maddie Davin. She'll share who the team members (adults and students) are making this week's Kairos CLXII happen. Another Kairos focused episode visit with Mary Ellen Whitcomb and Pat O'Neil '85 and John Goetcheus '85 is coming in the Spring.

November 5, 2021, a football rivalry renews, Gonzaga will play St. John’s for the 100th time under the lights of the recently upgraded Buchanan Field. “Go, Gonzaga, Beat St. Johns!” For decades students exhibited their purple-pride and school spirit with banners scattered around the DC Area... hung from overpasses, bridges, and other strategic places, exhorting the Eagles to Fly High! In 1957, a few intrepid students raised Gonzaga’s profile by hanging a “Beat St. John’s” banner out of two of the open windows of the Washington Monument. For members of the class of ’67, who arrived on Eye Street in 1963, these public displays of Gonzaga pride were part of the lore of Gonzaga versus St. Johns. The 1966 Gonzaga Football team was off to a great start, and the Booster Club seniors knew they had to do something big for the St. John's game. But how do you top the Monument stunt of 1957? Best friends, Jim Nelson '67 and Will Morris '67 share their memories. Will was the senior quarterback, while Jim headed up the Boosters Club. This is the story of the Capitol Banner Caper: the clever planning, the disappointment after getting caught, the unexpected next day triumph, and the hilarious punishment, it's all here. Next week in Episode 9 - more GGBSJ fun is on the way. We'll cover how in 1969, the class of '71 upstaged the seniors by turning the Monument Purple and White.

November 5-6th, 2021, saw both Gonzaga Classes of '70 and '71 gather for their 50th Jubilee Reunion Celebrations on Eye Street, (Covid delayed the '70 reunion). While the oldest Catholic School rivalry took place on Buchanan Field (#GGBSJ),  a rivalry between the Class of '70 and '71 was remembered, as well. It's not often when juniors outdo seniors, but on November 11, 1969, that’s just what happened. And just like their 50th reunion celebrations, it all revolved around the 1969 Gonzaga vs St Johns Football game. The late Mark Smith '71 was truly the wizard behind the curtain who made magic on the National Mall that night. With science, stealth, and salesmanship, Mark and his fellow juniors outdid the seniors in the Beat St. John's PR battle by turning The Washington Monument Purple and White. So many variables could have gone wrong, but they didn't. Passing the hat to raise a whopping $300, $2200 by 2021 standards, for a special overseas shipment from England. This is long before Amazon.com. Who gave the a key faculty member signature (wink-wink)? It's all in Episode 9, as members of the Class of '71 Larry Heaney, Dennis Orsborn, Larry Vagnoni, and Tom Donohoe all share their memories of arguably the greatest "Go Gonzaga, Beat St. Johns!" stunt of all. Oh and Tom and one of his buddies renewed another GGBSJ tradition that night, too on the 14th Street Railroad or Long Bridge. So much fun. Stay to the end as one of next week's guests shares a GGBSJ story from 2014, that if that doesn't give you  goosebumps, the last 30 seconds will. GO GONZAGA, BEAT ST. JOHN'S!!

As Gonzaga Hockey returns to the ice after losing a year to Covid, we examine the history of the program and the legacy of Dominik Pettey '15. S1E10 begins w/ longtime Gonzaga teacher Mark Howell '73 reacting to S1E9 (Washington Monument turned Purple + White). Mark shared his memory of the night of November 11, 1969, and his role with his brothers Mike and Jack. Howell has likely seen more than half of the 100 St. John's games in Gonzaga history, and despite the 20-17 loss on 11/5/21, the game that matters is Saturday, 11/13/21. Go Gonzaga, Beat St. John's!! Hockey on Eye Street started 30 years ago, when Eric Bovim '94 made his case that there were enough students interested in playing hockey that Gonzaga should field a team. Eric's strategy was convincing and by his junior year, Gonzaga had a team, and shortly after a Holiday Tournament, named by his sister. Through the years Gonzaga Hockey program has grown and now has 9 championships. AD Joe Reyda visits to break down the titles and coaches, including former student player and Gonzaga Athletic Hall of Fame member, Paul Tilch '97. This Thursday, 11/11/21, a new Gonzaga hockey season begins with the Dominik Pettey '15 Memorial Purple + White Game. Who was Dominik Pettey - the player and the person? Why is #11's legacy such a big part of the hockey culture at Gonzaga? Former Head Coach Bill Slater and Dom's good friend Ridge Slater '15 join to tell Dominik's story. And not just his story, the story of the incredible example his parents set in showing Christ-like forgiveness to the woman involved in the accident Halloween night 2014. Some of the experiences Bill and Ridge share about the immediate aftermath of Dom's death are heartbreaking, but faith-affirming at the same time. We hope you make time to check out these links mentioned in Episode 10: 11/11/21 4:30p Fort Dupont Ice Arena. Dominik Pettey '15 Memorial Purple + White Game Info Donate to the Dominik Pettey Scholarship Fund Monumental Sports Network Video Salute to Dom Pettey At 13:44 watch a special interview with the Petteys about Divine Mercy

If you've seen the banners in the Carmody Center, you likely know Gonzaga had one of its more memorable football seasons in 1959 that culminated with a City Title. But unless you were there, you probably don't know the crazy sequence of events from November 22, to November 27th. Three football games in six days! All at the legendary Griffith Stadium (where Howard University Hospital is today). Wait until you hear about the round robin tournament, the tie-breakers, and finally a draw from a hat decided who would face the vaunted Eastern Ramblers. Quite a few future College and NFL Stars would play that week, including our guests from Gonzaga's Class of 1960: Jon Morris (15 years AFL/NFL Lineman 7 time All Pro selection), Darryl Hill (recruited by Lee Corso to join the Maryland Terrapins in 1963 becoming the first African-American college football player in the South). Also joining the Zoom are teammates Charles Shields, Henry Partridge, and Brendan O'Neill, Sr. All these guys were great friends who loved being around each other, and playing hard for each other. With the Gonzaga Smoker coming up, we also asked about their classmate, the late Stu Long '60. For information about this years in person gathering click here. Epilogue: 1959 was a different time to be sure. The 1954 Brown v Board of Education ruling made school segregation illegal, but five years later, progress was slow. Gonzaga was ahead of most prep schools of that era, as Dr. Gabe Smith '54 became the first African American to graduate from Eye Street. Gabe paved the way for young men like Darryl Hill '60 to feel welcomed at Gonzaga. Hill would go on to break the ACC football color barrier at Maryland. The City Championship game in basketball continues to this day, but the City Title football game  was discontinued after race riots broke out following the 1962 game. The integrated but mostly white St. John's team won against an outmatched Eastern team. With over 50,000 in attendance at D.C. Stadium (later renamed RFK), 400 people were injured. D.C. area writers like John Manasso (1994) and Dave McKenna (2011) both wrote compelling pieces that looked back at the 1962 game and wondered if the City Title Football game would be revived. Click the links to read on more. Thanks to Will Morris '67 for his research assistance in putting this episode together. ------ As mentioned at the end of the episode: We want to hear from you! For our Christmas week episode, we want to include your voices sharing Christmas greetings. Use your voice memo device, record this: Hey, this is ____________ from the Class of ___ wishing all my Gonzaga friends a Merry Christmas from _________ (where u live) (feel free to ad lib if you like and name check some classmates) then send the voice memo to podcast@gonzaga.org Thanks!

On November 30, 1945, under the lights at College Park's muddy Byrd Stadium, Gonzaga’s Football team, famously portrayed in an Evening Star illustration as David, upset Goliath, the barnstorming national powerhouse, Boys Town. Fr. Flanagan's Boys were 11-0, on their fundraising - east coast run. Until they ran into an injured Gonzaga team, that found a way to dig deep. In Episode 12 of the Echo Ever Proudly podcast, our main guest is author, researcher and award-winning documentary producer, Luis Blandon '81. What was life like for post-war D.C. residents in the Fall of ’45? Blandon shares his well-researched details. And give us the backstory of the '43 game that Gonzaga lost 12-6. And just how different two years made, socially. As Gonzaga celebrates its Bicentennial, the Gonzaga vs. Boys Town game, 76 years ago this week, is one of the more admirable moments for the school. Not just for what was on the scoreboard at the end of the game, but for the social significance of just playing it. And the changes it may have inspired. A quick anecdote from Randy Kozik tells how his dad, the late Joe Kozik, got some scouting help, from a name you may have heard of, Coach Bear Bryant, the Maryland Terrapins coach in 1945. Luis adds some great thoughts for young students who may be interested in history, and shares memories of his two favorite history teachers. It is Thanksgiving week, a special one for Gonzaga historically, with the annual Alumni Smoker on Wednesday night. Some may be listening on your Uber ride home. Lately the tradition of athletic alumni gatherings this week has grown to include a hockey alumni game on Wednesdays before the Smoker. The Gonzaga Crew alumni will row on Saturday the 27th @11:00a at Anacostia Community Boathouse, 1900 M Street SE, Washington D.C. At the end of this episode we visit with Gonzaga Rugby icon Lee Kelly, and Gonzaga Head Football coach Randy Trivers. On Buchanan Field Friday November 26th the Rugby Alumni Touch Tournament registration starts @9:30am. Later in the afternoon the Football Alumni game registration/warm ups begin @4:00p Game starts @4:30. Followed at 5:30p by a group photo and comments from Coach Trivers, food and fellowship on the Alumni Pavilion (outdoor venue) afterwards. ---- As mentioned, send us your holiday shout out! For our Christmas week episode, we want to include your voices sharing Christmas greetings. Use your voice memo device, record this: Hey, this is ____________ from the Class of ___ wishing all my Gonzaga friends a Merry Christmas from _________ (where u live) (feel free to ad lib if you like and name check some classmates) then send the voice memo to podcast@gonzaga.org Thanks!

S1E13 starts highlighting Saturday's (12/4) "A Roaring Return" the 41st Annual Mothers’ Club Gala. After a virtual event in 2020, Jeannette Staton and Hazel Lychak from the Mothers Club briefly share the exciting details. Bid pay auction links here. The Gala Gram link is here. As the 2020-2021 school year ended, one of the longtime Pillars of Eye Street, English teacher Mrs. Helen Free, retired. When Helen arrived in 1983 at Gonzaga, she joined a largely male faculty. Over the last 38 years, much has changed about Gonzaga. The faculty makeup is much more diverse, the physical campus has transformed, and Helen Free admits, she changed, too. She believes the last 15 years, she was doing some of her best work. How did her teaching journey lead her to Eye Street? Who inspired her early on, to get her Masters? What challenges did she face as a mom when 2 sons attended Gonzaga? How did she approach parent-teacher conferences? And what does she hope for Gonzaga’s Future as she steps away? These answers and many more you won’t likely forget, especially our Gonzaga Mom’s. --- As mentioned, we want your holiday shout outs! (Moms are welcome, too!) For our Christmas week episode, we want to include your voices sharing Christmas greetings from where ever life after Gonzaga has taken you. Use your voice memo device, record this: Hey, this is ____________ from the Class of ___ / mother of __________ wishing the extended Gonzaga family a Merry Christmas from _________ (where u live) (feel free to ad lib if you like and name check some classmates) then send the voice memo to podcast@gonzaga.org Thanks!

We all know the name Kohlmann. Kohlmann Hall, the Kohlmann Address at graduation, but who was Fr. Anthony Kohlmann, S.J., the man? Tim Nau'61 briefly wondered that question in 1957 on his way to JUG. But the thought passed. After attending his 50th reunion in 2011, Tim remembered the name Kohlmann, and again wondered who was Anthony Kohlmann? Soon Tim's personal search for answers was on. Nau ordered books, researched online, and even planned travel to Europe to meet with historians in the town where Kohlmann grew up. What did answers did Tim find about Gonzaga's Founder? Kohlmann was a much more fascinating and prominent figure in American Catholicism than he thought. In S1E14, Tim unpacks piece by piece Kohlmann, the man. From his formative days in Europe, and how the horror of the French Revolution impacted his worldview. What events led brought Kohlmann to America? And what massive American legal precedent belongs to Gonzaga’s Founder? Gonzaga doesn't make it 20 years, let alone 200 years, without a second, lesser-celebrated, but just as important founding father: Fr. William Matthews. Matthews was pivotal shortly before, and after Kohlmann, but doesn't really get the credit in Gonzaga lore. Matthews’ personality was a big part of why The Washington Catholic Seminary survived to become Gonzaga, as Tim explains in spellbinding detail. In 1821, two centuries ago, two very different men of God, in birthplace, motives, temperament, and vision, combined to lay the foundation that lives on in Gonzaga. Europe's Kohlmann and America's Matthews – Gonzaga’s Founding Fathers. Again special thanks to Tim Nau' 61 for sharing his research that he did simply because he "has the history gene." We look forward to hearing more from Tim in future episode on the unique lexicon of Gonzaga in later the Spring. Next week is the last Episode before we take a break for the Holidays. So last call for Christmas greetings. Would love to hear from you where ever you listen around the world, even if it's around the beltway. Use your voice memo device, record this: Hey, this is ____________ from the Class of ___ wishing the extended Gonzaga family a Merry Christmas from _________ (where u live) (feel free to ad lib if you like and name check some classmates) then send the voice memo to podcast@gonzaga.org Thanks!

We found out 12/17, that the January 4, 2022 Gonzaga Business Network Career Fair event at the Carmody Center, is being rescheduled due to a rise in Covid cases locally. (Earlier versions of this episode had a visit promoting the event, we removed.) For Christmas, we've been saving a story from Fr. Thomas Buckley S.J. and his memories of a special Christmas night he spent helping the late Fr. Horace McKenna S.J. find a room for a desperate couple and their new baby. We close with Holiday greetings from members of the extended Gonzaga family. Thanks to all who submitted this year. For those of you who have financially supported Gonzaga this year, thank you. If not, as we approach the end of the year, giving to the Gonzaga Fund may be the perfect way to close out your charitable support and show your gratitude for the friendships, education, and spiritual foundation Gonzaga gave to all of us. Click here to make your gift today. This is the final episode of 2021. We will be resuming the weekly Echo Ever Proudly podcast episodes on January 13, 2022. As always your feedback is welcome, podcast@gonzaga.org.

As the top-ranked and undefeated Eagles soared over DeMatha 87-73 Tuesday night (01/11/22) those of us watching online couldn't help but appreciate the strong Basketball tradition on Eye Street. And how, what we were watching, would have been hard to imagine when this week's guests arrived at Gonzaga. Legendary Coach Dick Myers, Coach Bill Wilson, along with John Williams, Marty Favret, and Tom Sluby, (all members of the Class of '80) join for part one of a two part visit that covers that pivotal era when the investment that followed Gonzaga's commitment made to stay on Eye Street, started to show dividends. Bill Wilson shares his memories before Father Dooley and Coach Dick Myers arrived. The "Old Gym" stories might seem like scary Grimm fairy tales to today's Gonzaga students and players, but they were very real for those who practiced in the "dungeon" as Wilson describes. Knowing the challenges, John said a big tournament win by Gonzaga when they were in eighth grade played a roll. For Marty and John their brothers had attended, but that wasn't the case for Tom Sluby. Tom credits a special Gonzaga family in his parish for making a big impact on his decision to go to Gonzaga. What was the other sport did Sluby excel at that may have helped him in basketball? And why is he so familiar with the Byrd Stadium stairs? And why did Marty have to be a Monster for 45 seconds against Johnny Dawkins and Mackin? All those answers this week in Episode 16. Don't miss part two of our visit and it's focus on that breakthrough win at DeMatha in 1980. As we celebrate Gonzaga's Bicentennial, the arrival Coach Myers in '75, then Tom Sluby in '76, and the Carmody Center in '77 laid the foundation for the tremendous legacy of excellence Gonzaga Basketball enjoys today. And here's hoping this years Eagles team continues to soar this Bicentennial season!

This week we continue celebrating the Heroes and History of Gonzaga Basketball in Episode 17 of the Echo Ever Proudly podcast. Part two of our visit with 5 Gonzaga Basketball Icons: Coaches Dick Myers and Bill Wilson, and legendary players from the class of 1980, John Williams, Marty Favret, and Tom Sluby. On February 1, 1980, Gonzaga became only the third school to ever win a game against DeMatha on their home court on Madison Street in Hyattsville, Md. What was the atmosphere like? What did Coach Bill Wilson say at halftime? Why did Coach Myers get a technical? And just how special was the picture of Tom Sluby in the Washington Star the next day? The answers are in Episode 17. Get set to enjoy a laughed-filled conversation with five guys, who describe what they remember about that one special Friday in February 42 years ago. As Gonzaga celebrates its bicentennial, the great basketball legacy at Gonzaga that we enjoy today, can be traced back to two program game changers: Coach Dick Myers and Tom Sluby '80. Be sure to rate and review as well. (5 stars please) Feedback is always welcome podcast@gonzaga.org Follow Subscribe and Share with anyone who you know loves Gonzaga.

Former Gonzaga Headmaster, Dr. Joseph Ciancaglini famously said the arrival of three things factored into saving Gonzaga: Tom Sluby '80, Father Dooley, S.J., and the Metro. And what a renaissance grew out of that confluence. Joe explains his assessment of three factors as well as his personal connection (you may not have known) to the late Fr. Allen Novotny, S.J., and how important he was to keeping Fr. Dooley's momentum going. Ciancaglini's journey to Eye Street almost ended as quickly as it began. It's an all-time Opal Bell story you won't forget. Joe passes a lot of credit for the success under his leadership to his capable contemporaries, but his impact as a teacher, to admissions director, then headmaster, was profound. (If you need an example - listen to S1E13 and listen to his impact on Helen Free) Dr. C. presided over major growth in enrollment. He witnessed dramatic improvement in athletics, academics, spiritual and extra curricular offerings at Gonzaga. But the big life lessons and takeaways he shares at this stage of his career will remind you of the warmth, heart and humility you knew from his time on Eye Street. Since the taping, we learned that Dr. Joseph Ciancaglini just announced last month (12/14/21) his intention to retire from the Convent School of the Sacred Heart in NYC at the conclusion of the 2022-2023 school year. We wish him all the best. And thank him for all he did for Gonzaga.

This week in Episode 19 of the Echo Ever Proudly podcast, we examine how Gonzaga came to have the iconic address for the last 150+ years at "19 Eye Street."  The 1871 decision to move from F Street was widely viewed as a disaster. Enrollment plummeted. What had motivated the Jesuits to take such a risk, and what changes were eventually made to try to bring enrollment back up? And who was the Father Dooley of his day who got the Gonzaga Hall (now the Sheehy Theater) built in 1896? We’ll get answers from two accomplished guests from the Class of ’68: Paul Warren and Michael Dolan. Together they compiled the 2005 Book “Echo Ever Proudly: Gonzaga in The Press 1821-1899.” It's available thru the Gonzaga bookstore or perhaps, like me, you own a copy. What inspired Paul to go in search of the origins of Gonzaga? And what part of Gonzaga history did their "field research" on F Street in 2004 find and preserve? Find out in Episode 19, of the Echo Ever Proudly Podcast. To order your copy of "Echo Ever Proudly - Gonzaga in the Press 1821-1899" proceeds benefit the Michael Kelly '75 Memorial Scholarship Fund. Gonzaga Bookstore Link for the Book

In June 2021, as part of back-to-back commencement exercises, Gonzaga’s 36th President, Fr. Stephen Planning took the opportunity at his final graduation ceremony to award a special Doctorate for the first time during his tenure. As many of you know, Gonzaga College High School’s historic charter allows for the awarding of honorary degrees. The recipient: Gabe Smith '54, the first African-American to graduate from Gonzaga. As Black History Month is being celebrated this February, this week in S1E20, we celebrate Dr. Gabe Smith. Just how did the young student from St. Peter Claver’s Parish, in Southern Maryland end up, 80 miles away on Eye Street? And how was Gabe treated once he arrived? And after the rigors of four years at Gonzaga, did the future pharmacist feel prepared for Howard University? Gabe’s shares the answers, and his appreciation for God and Gonzaga in Episode 20 of the Echo Ever Proudly podcast.

Over 200 years, Gonzaga has seen new course offerings, and clubs created to meet the needs and interests of students. As Black History Month continues, we celebrate this week, a little-known hero of Gonzaga, the African-American student who co-founded WZAG: Chuck Lewis ’77. How did Chuck’s father’s advice after a setback, inspire him? And what local TV station helped Chuck in those early days? We’ll also hear from Chuck's co-founder, Danny Costello '72, with his memories as a longtime WZAG moderator of the fun, and the challenges of those early days. Special guest, former Gonzaga faculty member, Fr. Mark Scalese,S.J., talks about his role in the evolution of WZAG in the early 90's, as it made the jump from club to class. Alums Dave Konschik '94 and John Guccion '92 add their appreciation for the Mark Scalese era. Finally, we catch up with recent graduate, Derrell Bouknight '15, who now works with CBS Sports Network. Derrell shares his WZAG memories, and experiences, and how the education at Gonzaga helped steer him into media as a career. But, the ripple effects of this "club" that evolved into a course, all started 46 years ago, with a curious Chuck Lewis '77. Chuck took his dad's advice and found an outlet for his talents and creativity. Special thanks to Dave Konschik '94 for his behind the scenes help on this Episode! Feedback is welcome: podcast@gonzaga.org. Follow Subscribe and Share with anyone who you know loves Gonzaga.

Among the many Jesuits who have left their mark on Gonzaga, a name that comes up a lot from students during the mid 1950s and 60s was Fr. Anthony McHale, SJ, (1920-2006). From 1955-1967, Fr. McHale was the revered headmaster of Gonzaga. When he passed in the Fall of 2006, it was clear from the notes of appreciation sent to the alumni office how special he was, and we share a portion of the remembrance from Glen Slocum '59 in S1E22. Next up previous podcast guests (S1E19) Michael Dolan '68 and Paul Warren '68 share their recollections of Father McHale. But the main part of our visit this week, is with Bill Bennett '61. The former Secretary of Education has vivid memories of Father McHale. How did Bill sum up Fr. McHale, the man?  And how did Bill's interactions with Fr. McHale shape him into the public servant he became? Bennett also shares fond memories of his time on Eye Street: the challenging course load, the legendary homework, (one memorable role in a play), sports and more. After laboring at Gonzaga, everything academically for Bennett seemed easy, even Williams College, and Harvard Law School. Eye Street has changed a lot since the days of Headmaster Fr. Anthony McHale, SJ, and over sixty years ago, when a young Bill Bennett walked the halls, but McHale's impact still ripples today. During our visit, I quote the June 1985 Washington Post series Elsa Walsh did on Gonzaga. If you would like to read more (including her quotes from Bennett about Fr. McHale) use this link. Another student who was a contemporary of Bill Bennett was the late Pat Conroy. The prolific writer shared his encounters with Fr. Anthony McHale with such beautiful prose in his book "My Losing Season." An excerpt from the book appeared in the Washington Post in December of 2002, that I was moved to read, find whole excerpt at this link. As Gonzaga celebrates 200 years, God Bless the work done by Jesuits like Fr. Anthony McHale, and God Bless Gonzaga! Feedback is always welcome... podcast@gonzaga.org AMDG

As we celebrate the Heroes and History of Eye Street, episode 23 celebrates the legendary Coach Joe Kozik (1914-1995). When Kozik arrived at Gonzaga, in the early 1940s, he brought with him a passion for sports and physical education, and a strong moral conviction. As we’ve chronicled in earlier episodes, while on Eye Street, the tough former Penn State running back, took key stands against discrimination. To get a better sense of what shaped Joe’s worldview, our special guest this week is Joe’s son, Randy Kozik. What it was like as a youngster growing up riding the Gonzaga team bus that his dad was always driving everywhere? Who did his dad consider to be his favorite student? Who was the best athlete his dad ever coached? What's one coaching moment Randy witnessed that he still laughs about? Randy Kozik shares these answers and also adds a very poignant personal story about his mom; a revelation very few members of the Gonzaga community knew. It sheds light on just how special Joe Kozik was as a dad. Judge Bill Rowan'57 was part of the alumni group that organized the Joe Kozik Testimonial Dinner in November 1980 at the Shoreham Hotel. Bill shares his memories of Joe in the classroom, the pep rallies, and how Joe would go the extra mile to help the Men of Eye Street. God Bless Joe Kozik, and God Bless Gonzaga! AMDG

The Gonzaga Dramatic Association Spring Musical, Into The Woods opens with shows this weekend and next. Before Saturday's performance (Mar12) the GDA Hall of Fame ceremony will take place with the induction of Howard Dent '65, and the casts and crews from the 1979 production of Guys and Dolls,and the 2002 production of 42nd Street. In S1E24, we celebrate the Gonzaga theater and hear the memories of previous Hall of Famers: Katie Fleury Ryan (Visitation '72), Cathy Cronin (Academy of Notre Dame '72) and Gonzaga’s own Dan Warren '72. Cathy also was one of the first women from the Academy of Notre Dame to take classes at Gonzaga (Fr. Woodward and Fr. Wheeler). Great stories, endearing moments, and a palpable friendships forged on Eye Street over 50 years ago. Anyone who has ever been on the Warman Stage, or part of the crew, will love these stories. And if your daughters are considering auditioning for future roles at Gonzaga, I think they'll find great messages inside S1E24. Feed back in always welcome. podcast@gonzaga.org Follow, Subscribe and Share with anyone who you know loves Gonzaga.

As the Gonzaga Spring Musical,Into The Woods, gives its final performances this weekend, S1E25 of the Echo Ever Proudly podcast is the second part of our Spring salute to the Gonzaga Theater. Last week, we heard GDA Hall of Fame memories from cast members from the 1972 production of Damn Yankees. This week, the spotlight shifts to three women whose talents have helped the Gonzaga Dramatic Association reach new heights over the last two decades: Meghan Goldsmith, JZ Zaeske, and Sarah Frances Hope Williams. All three women have added their unique talents, perspective, and leadership, to raise the bar for the drama students on Eye Street. Longtime Gonzaga faculty member, as well as GDA Club moderator, Paul Buckley '86 joins the conversation and shares his appreciation for how these three women (among other recent additions to the program) have improved the student theater experience on Eye Street. What was each woman's path to Gonzaga? What moments and performances stand out from their favorite shows? And why are active parents so important to the GDA? Hear their inspiring answers, insights, and more in Episode 25 of the Echo Ever Proudly podcast. Follow, Subscribe and Share with anyone who you know loves Gonzaga! If you're listening on Apple podcasts please rate (5 stars please) and written reviews help with algorithms! Feedback and future episode ideas are always welcome podcast@gonzaga.org AMDG!

On Friday April 1st, 2022, another group of Gonzaga students returned to Eye Street after making their first Kairos Retreat. That group joined 165 others in a fraternity of faith, that has now spanned 38 years. This week we celebrate the power of the Holy Spirit with some Kairos Pioneers who share their memories of the beginnings of the retreat program that has become a cornerstone of faith formation at Jesuit and Catholic schools across the country. Longtime member of the Gonzaga community, Mary Ellen Whitcomb was there at the beginning. She joins along with two of the earliest student leaders, John Goetcheus '85 and Pat O'Neil '85 to share their memories of the program. Special thanks to Dave Dugan '98 for technical assistance. Feedback is always welcome, podcast@gonzaga.org