Alumni Speaker Series
Seniors Learn from AlumniThe OLSM Alumni Speaker Series was started in late December of 2014 with the help of Don Ambrose. It enables alumni to return to the Prep to visit the senior class to share their experiences and important messages about what they’ve learned since graduating from OLSM.
During the 2014-15 school year, speakers ranged from Prosecuting Attorney to Salesman. Each and every speaker delivered a powerful message on careers, success tips and decision-making that had seniors reevaluating how they might approach the next step in life.
During the 2016-17 academic year, we enjoyed hosting all different types of professionals on campus (as seen below), and welcome you to come and speak. Please contact Cormac Lynn (clynn@stmarysprep.com) if you would like to be a part of the Alumni Speaker Series.
Look Who Stopped By . . . Alumni Visits to Mr. Ambrose’s Class Inspire Seniors
Alumni Speaker Series 2016-17 About Life Experiences
The Prep was tremendously appreciative of the time and talents the following alumni shared with OLSM seniors as part of the annual Alumni Speaker Series. Among many valuable insights they shared with the students, several points resonated from their messages, as we’ve summarized below.
Matt Dinverno (P’90)
“Remember, put God first in everything you do,” said the insurance executive. “Search for a mentor to support and guide you. Life was not meant to live alone. No one can want success for you more than you do and no one owes you anything. The effort you put into your passions today will pay dividends later. Help someone else. Stay connected and pull one another up.”
Clarence Dass (P’03)
He shared his experiences both on life as a former Oakland County prosecutor and currently in his own law firm, pointing out some lessons he believes will help guide the students through college and life. He shared the answers to many questions students asked about how to get into law school, real cases in court and the justice system.
Geoffrey George (P’04)
The film industry professional shared his experiences both at the Prep and in his career, and fielded questions from students.
Nick DiPonio (P’98)
The owner of Lakes Area Management was thrilled to be back at his alma mater to speak to the seniors. The same sense of pride resonates in him today as it did when he was a student. “Be aware of your surroundings everywhere you go,” he added.
Joshua Payzant (P’10)
This alumnus, who works for a large commercial real estate company, strongly encouraged students to “go after it, keep working hard and follow your passion.”
April:
Chad Bush (P’94) – “My main advice is to make connections to as many people as possible while at St. Mary’s because those relationships do last.”
Alumni Association Reignites Board Meetings
The Alumni Association held a board meeting March 2, 2017 at which 45 alumni attended and 20 more could not attend but expressed interest in getting involved. The following members were elected Executive Officers: Fred Lyons (P’98) – President; Chad Bush (P’94) – Vice President; Mason Porritt (P’ 12) – Executive Secretary. The group is working on naming class captains and on a new, online directory. Several other events were discussed and are in the planning stages.
Reminders:
- Help us promote the theme of Alumni Working for Alumni.
- Join us at our next meeting in the dining hall. Check our website calendar for dates and times or email Don Buchanan, Alumni Director, at dbuchanan@orchardlakeschools.com