This week's Alumni Spotlight highlights William Valentine (Class of 2011), who is a Special Agent for the U.S. Secret Service.

Why do you support Lake Catholic?

The opportunities that I received at Lake Catholic played a key role in shaping where I am today. When I stepped through the doors for the first time, I could sense the feeling of family. Some of my closest friends to this day are from my class. Coming from a larger public school system, you don't always get that same sense of community. The people I went to school with and the teachers/staff I interacted with on a day-to-day basis showed me a different side of life, and for that I am grateful. Attending Lake Catholic led me to attending Mercyhurst University, which in turn led me to my work in government service.

What specific areas or missions are you drawn to at Lake Catholic?

Athletics. Watching the volleyball team three-peat the last few years has been awesome. Kara Oster and Tess did a great job leading the girls. And I have to give a shoutout to the 2010 State champs as well! That team was dangerous.

What do you wish others knew about Lake Catholic?

Lake Catholic is a place where students receive an excellent education while keeping God at the center of their experience. During my time there, a couple of the religion classes that I took with Mr. Ellis stood out as especially impactful. They challenged us to think deeply about life's big questions - What is faith? Why do we have it?

Mr. Ellis often reminded us that “faith is hope.” Those classroom discussions encouraged me to reflect on how we live our lives in the image of God and whether our actions reflect Christian values and the teachings of Jesus. Even today, I often find myself thinking back to those moments and asking … How do I want to be remembered? Not just by my peers, but also by God?

What is your favorite memory of Lake Catholic?

My favorite memory has to be the Final Four run we had in 2010 with the Boys Soccer program. That season was magical, and some of my greatest memories were made with that team. 2010 was a really big year for Lake Catholic - the football, soccer, and volleyball teams all played in Final Four games that year.

What are you currently up to? What's new and exciting that you have going on now?

I just returned from a five-day assignment at the Vatican. Vice President Vance and his spouse attended the Inauguration of Pope Leo XIV. I helped provide site security around Rome for the VP and his wife when they went out to explore the city in between official meetings. Now that I am back home, I am working on my criminal cases and looking forward to enjoying the beautiful summer in Cleveland.

If you're interested in being a part of our Alumni Spotlight, or would like to nominate someone, please reach out to our Director of Alumni Relations Bill Weaver.

This week's Alumni Spotlight highlights Angela Granchi (Class of 2018), who is a Project Manager and Product Specialist at Solidarity Health Network.

Why do you support Lake Catholic?

I support Lake Catholic because it helped shape every part of who I am today -- my faith, my friendships, my values, and my resilience. LC wasn’t just a school to me; it was a foundation. It gave me lifelong friends who have become like family, friends I’ve stood beside in weddings and will walk through life with forever. The faith I built at Lake Catholic has been my anchor through all the highs and lows. 
I’ve stayed involved with LC ever since graduating—first as a student, then as an alum, and now as a coach. Giving back to the same community that poured so much into me is a blessing. I support Lake Catholic because I believe in its mission and its impact. It truly transforms lives, and I’m living proof of that.

What specific areas or missions are you drawn to at Lake Catholic?

Athletics have always been a big part of my life, and coaching at Lake Catholic has been one of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had since graduating. But it’s more than just a sport; it’s the opportunity to mentor, to encourage faith on and off the field and court, and to walk with these young people the same way others once walked with me. That mission of building strong character through faith and community is what continually draws me back.

What do you wish others knew about Lake Catholic?

I wish people knew how much of a lifelong impact Lake Catholic makes. It’s not just four years; it’s the foundation for who you become. The faith you develop there stays with you in the hardest seasons of life. LC gave me more than an education; it gave me family. Some of my best friends, true, lifelong friends who I’ve stood beside in weddings, came from my time at LC. The community doesn’t end after graduation, and the values stick with you forever.

What is your favorite memory of Lake Catholic?

There are too many to count, but if I had to pick one, it would be the moments that weren’t necessarily big events, but the everyday connection with friends who became and will remain family to me. Whether it was late nights after practice, retreats that strengthened my faith, or those meaningful conversations with teachers and coaches, those are the memories that shaped me and helped me become who I am today. Being part of Lake Catholic wasn’t just about academics or athletics, but about becoming the person God was calling me to be.

What are you currently up to? What's new and exciting that you have going on now?

Right now, I’m in the middle of building my first home, which has been such an exciting and humbling journey. It’s a reminder of how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown since my time at Lake Catholic. As challenging as this process can be, my faith—something LC deeply instilled in me, continues to carry me through. I’m also still heavily involved with Lake Catholic, coaching cheerleading for the past three years. It’s been such a gift to give back to the school that gave so much to me.

If you're interested in being a part of our Alumni Spotlight, or would like to nominate someone, please reach out to our Director of Alumni Relations Bill Weaver.

This week's Alumni Spotlight highlights Jamie (Laturell) DelVecchio (Class of 2006), who is a sports medicine physician at Precision Orthopedics in Chardon.

Why do you support Lake Catholic?

I support Lake Catholic because it helped shape me into the person I am today. It gave me so many opportunities, both athletically and academically, to pursue my goals. At the same time, the sense of community, support, and values that were instilled in me have stayed with me throughout my life.

What specific areas or missions are you drawn to at Lake Catholic?

Athletics

What do you wish others knew about Lake Catholic?

For those who have not attended Lake Catholic, I think it is important to know there is a strong sense of community there.  Lake Catholic provides an environment that encourages growth and offers support in all different areas.  It truly feels like a family.

What is your favorite memory of Lake Catholic?

My favorite memory of Lake Catholic is making it to the regional finals with our soccer team!

What are you currently up to? What's new and exciting that you have going on now?

I am currently working as a sports medicine physician at Precision Orthopaedics in Chardon.  I have been there for seven years and I love getting to take care of patients close to where I grew up.

My husband and I have been married for 10 years. We stay busy at home with three young kids - 8, 5, and 3.  We love being involved in their school events, sporting activities, and traveling as a family.

I recently ran the 129th Boston Marathon on April 21st. After playing high school and college soccer, I started running to stay active. I fell in love with distance running and the marathon. Running the Boston Marathon became a dream of mine. I finally qualified for Boston last year and had the opportunity to run it this past April. 

If you're interested in being a part of our Alumni Spotlight, or would like to nominate someone, please reach out to our Director of Alumni Relations Bill Weaver.

This week's Alumni Spotlight highlights Joey Jablonski (Class of 2005), who is the Director of Human Resources for the Millcreek Township School District.

What specific areas or missions are you drawn to at Lake Catholic?

Performing Arts

What is your favorite memory of Lake Catholic?

One of the things I appreciated most about my time at Lake Catholic was the way it cultivated my passion for music and the performing arts. The school provided a supportive environment where I could explore those interests in both formal settings—like organized music programs and performances—and informal ones, through friendships and creative opportunities outside the classroom. Those early experiences helped lay the foundation for a lifelong connection to music, and to this day, I still find joy and fulfillment performing as a drummer in a local band. I'm grateful for the ways Lake helped spark that interest and gave me the space and encouragement to pursue it.

What are you currently up to? What's new and exciting that you have going on now?

Since graduating from Lake Catholic 20 years ago, I’ve been fortunate to pursue a career in education that has been both fulfilling and challenging. My academic journey took me through Mercyhurst University, Cleveland State University, Edinboro University, and Slippery Rock University, where I ultimately earned a Doctorate in Education.

Over the past 14 years, I’ve served in various roles within the Millcreek Township School District in Erie, Pennsylvania—starting as a coach and teacher, then moving into administration as an assistant principal, principal, and currently serving as the Director of Human Resources for a district of about 1,000 staff members and 6,500 students. Each role has offered unique opportunities to grow and to make a meaningful impact.

One of the highlights of my time as a principal was helping lead our school to be ranked in the top 6% of elementary schools in Pennsylvania by U.S. News & World Report. I’ve also had the privilege of working closely with community members, legislators, and local foundations to secure $250,000 in funding to expand an ADA-inclusive playground. Through a team effort, we implemented the Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) system, which earned state recognition across all three tiers for our school.

Outside the classroom, I’ve shared my research at the national level, and my work has been published in several respected publications, including The Pennsylvania Administrator, Southern Georgia University’s Digital Commons, and the Pennsylvania Educational Leadership Journal.

Community involvement remains important to me. I currently serve as President of the Edinboro Youth Wrestling Club, and have volunteered with local organizations such as GM United Soccer, McLane Little League, and Little Lancers XC. I am also a member of Edinboro University’s Education Advisory Council.

My wife and I have been married for 14 years, and we live in McKean Township, just south of Erie, Pa., with our two sons, ages 11 and 8. As a family, we enjoy spending time outdoors—golfing, mountain biking, and running together. I stay active by participating in triathlons and marathons, and I continue to play drums in a local funk/pop band, The Rooftop Project, performing regularly throughout the tri-state area.

 

If you're interested in being a part of our Alumni Spotlight, or would like to nominate someone, please reach out to our Director of Alumni Relations Bill Weaver.

This week's Alumni Spotlight highlights Mike Lisi (Class of 1983), who retired after teaching choral music for 32 years in Ohio public schools. He retired in 2020 from the Avon Lake City School District and previously taught in the Lakewood and Columbus City School Districts.

Why do you support Lake Catholic?

Lake Catholic was an important part of my development, both professionally and personally. The education I received was far more than the presentation of content; the educational environment was an integration of experiences that allowed students the opportunity to develop higher-level thinking skills, contributing to a more entrepreneurial outcome that ensures success for all students.  Now that I am partially retired, I would like to help ensure that Lake Catholic continues to provide that same excellence in education for all students going forward. I have served on the Strategic Planning Committee, the Hall of Excellence Committee, and as a Class Ambassador for the Class of 1983.

What specific areas or missions are you drawn to at Lake Catholic?

Any place I can be of help or assistance.

What do you wish others knew about Lake Catholic?

I wish those who haven’t been a part of the Lake Catholic family could experience the feeling of community that is central to its success. When you walk into Lake Catholic, the feeling of purpose hits you immediately as you enter the main hall. It seems designed to pull you down toward the library and the adjacent wings as if there is something better ahead. When you finally have the chance to interact with faculty and staff, you become well aware of how special the Lake Catholic community is, surrounded by those who make the gospel of Jesus Christ the reason for everything that happens within the walls of our Alma Mater.

What is your favorite memory of Lake Catholic?

One day, at the end of sophomore year, I was practicing piano in the band room – Mr. Holz used to let me do so because I was one of his music theory students – and Mr. Divis walked by. He came in and asked me why I wasn’t involved in the music program. He brought me over to Sr. Marie Ellen, Choral Director, and Mrs. Paulette, Drama Director, and had me play for them. The next two years, I was one of three pianists for the choirs, the pianist for the musicals, and the pianist for the LC Singers. Had it not been for the kindness of Mr. Divis (RIP) and his willingness to reach out to me, I wouldn’t have had the wealth of experiences at Lake Catholic that contributed to my future development. I made many life-long friends through my participation in the LC music program. To Mr. Divis: Shalom Aleichem!

What are you currently up to? What's new and exciting that you have going on now?

I live in Avon Lake with my wife, Lisa, and my daughter, Rebecca, who just graduated from Ohio State University this past December.

I am Artistic Director and Conductor of The West Shore Chorale (www.westshorechorale.org), an auditioned chorus of 75 that performs classical, large works for chorus and orchestra. We are preparing the Mozart “Great” Mass in C Minor and the Beethoven Fantasy for Piano, Chorus, and Orchestra for our May 4th concert.  

I recently had a chance to do some reenactments for a show streaming on Amazon Prime: Death Walker with Nick Groff.  You can catch me in Season 4, episodes 5, 7, 15, and 17.
 

If you're interested in being a part of our Alumni Spotlight, or would like to nominate someone, please reach out to our Director of Alumni Relations Bill Weaver.

This week's Alumni Spotlight highlights Lori Smul (Class of 1999), who is a State Farm Agency Owner.

Why do you support Lake Catholic?

I support Lake Catholic because it helped shape the person I am today. The values, education, and community I experienced there gave me a strong foundation for both my personal and professional life. Giving back is my way of showing appreciation and staying connected to a place that means so much to me.

One way I’ve supported the school is by participating in the ThinkFast teen driving safety event, helping students learn the importance of safe driving. It’s rewarding to contribute to the next generation of Cougars and see them grow into strong, responsible individuals!

What specific areas or missions are you drawn to at Lake Catholic?

I’m especially drawn to opportunities that help students learn about business and prepare for their futures. As a business owner, I know how valuable real-world skills and mentorship can be, and I’d love to share insights that can help students explore career paths and develop their entrepreneurial mindset.

I also enjoy supporting athletics, as sports have played a big role in my family’s life. The teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills developed through athletics are just as important off the field as they are on it. I look forward to finding ways to get more involved in both of these areas at Lake Catholic!

What do you wish others knew about Lake Catholic?

I wish others knew how Lake Catholic High School is continually evolving to enhance academic excellence while staying true to its strong family values. Under the leadership of President John Morabeto, the school has launched a strategic plan focused on enriching the academic experience, strengthening community connections, expanding enrollment, and ensuring the school’s long-term success.

Lake Catholic challenges students with rigorous courses that prepare them for college and beyond.  At the same time, the school remains committed to its core values: commitment to excellence, a spirit of respect and compassion, personal integrity, and a willingness to serve.

This balance of academic advancement and deep-rooted family values creates a nurturing environment where students can grow intellectually, morally, and spiritually.

What is your favorite memory of Lake Catholic?

My favorite memories of Lake Catholic are the friendships I made—many of which have lasted to this day. From all the fun times we had together to the excitement of the state football championship games, playing tennis, and cheering on the basketball team, Lake Catholic was more than just a school—it was a community. The experiences and bonds I formed there are something I’ll always cherish!

What are you currently up to? What's new and exciting that you have going on now?

After celebrating five years as the owner of Lori Smul State Farm, I continue to help individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. My team and I focus on providing guidance on auto, home, life, and business insurance, ensuring our community is prepared for the unexpected.

On a personal note, I’ve been enjoying time with my family, supporting my kids in their activities, and planning a summer trip to Spain and Portugal. It’s been an exciting journey balancing business growth, community involvement, and family adventures!

If you're interested in being a part of our Alumni Spotlight, or would like to nominate someone, please reach out to our Director of Alumni Relations Bill Weaver.