Faculty & Staff Directory

Middle School English, Bulletin Consultant

Mrs. Allerton has been teaching for 25 years, the last eleven spent at Holy Cross teaching middle school language arts. She earned a B. A. and an M. Ed. from the University of New Orleans. Mrs. Allerton is co-moderator of the Brother Andre Service Society, the middle school service organization. She has also been heavily involved with the HC Cross Country and Track teams, first as the mother of two athletes, classes of 2000 and 2003, and now as the faculty moderator for the Cross Country team. Mrs. Allerton is a native of New Orleans, married with two sons and two daughters. She also has two grandchildren.

Director of Capital Campaigns

Starting his second school year here, Dean is responsible for the campaign to raise money for the new campus. In '91-'92, he was the Development, Alumni and Public Relations Director at Holy Cross, and he drove a Holy Cross bus for two years during college. A graduate of LSU, Dean came to Holy Cross after several years in the pharmaceutical industry and 23 years in the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, where he retired a Captain. He has two children and lives in Mandeville.

Director of Technology

Mr. Arnone joined Holy Cross in 2005. He has a BA in Business and holds the following Industry Certifications: CCNA, MCSE, MCP, CNA, CCA, A+, Security+, IT Project+, PMP, and Microsoft White, Green, and Blue Belts in Microsoft Project. Prior to coming to HC, Mr. Arnone spent over 20 years in the technology field working for Loblaw Intl, AT&T, and McDermott, Intl.

World Geography, World History, Assistant Basketball Coach

Mr. Arvites is entering his first year at Holy Cross and will be teaching World Geography and World History as well as being an assistant coach on the varsity basketball team. A 2004 graduate of Holy Cross, Mr. Arvites never really left and has spent the last five years coaching the 8th grade boy’s basketball team. During his time at the University of New Orleans he worked part time for the Times-Picayune as a sports writer. At Holy Cross he was a member of Student Council, Chorus, the Journalism Club, Quiz Bowl, and a member of the basketball team in which he was selected captain during his senior season. Michael is currently pursuing a master’s degree at the University of New Orleans in Education.

English, Drama, Theatre Director

Maria Baisier is entering her third year as Chair of the Holy Cross Drama Department and she teaches Drama I, II, III, IV as well as English II and English II Honors. Ms. Baisier received her BA in Theatre from Dominican College and her secondary certification in English at Tulane. She has been named twice to Who's Who Among America's Teachers (1996 and 2005), Who's Who in American Education, received the Octavia Levert Non-Fiction Writing Award, and was nominated to the USA Today All-Star Teacher team in 2006. In addition to teaching and directing theatre, Ms. Baisier is a published author of the book Pieces: Putting Life Back Together after Loss written under her pen name M.L. Davis. Three of her essays appear in the book Katrina: Mississippi Women Remember. and another appears in the book Southern Fried Farce. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society for Educators, Phi Beta International Honor Society for Actors, Loyola University Writing Workshop, and the Educational Theatre Association.

Athletic Director, Head Baseball Coach

In his 13th year at Holy Cross, Mr. Battistella, better known as Coach Batt, is entering his fifth year as Athletic Director and fourth year as Head Coach of the baseball team. Mr. Battistella is a graduate Holy Cross School and the University of New Orleans with a degree in communications. While at UNO, Mr. Battistella was a four-year letterman on the UNO Privateer Baseball team. After playing collegiately, he played one season for the Springfield Pallies in Illinois. Most recently, Mr. Battistella was named District 94-A 2008 Coach of the Year.

High School Religion

Mr. Bileci is a second year Religious Studies educator at Holy Cross School. He is a Brother Martin High School graduate. Mr. Bileci earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies in World Religions with a minor in Mass Communications from Loyola University in New Orleans. He is currently pursuing a Masters in Theology from Our Lady of Holy Cross College. Mr. Bileci instructs juniors and freshman in Catholic religious education, helping to prepare these young men for both society and eternal life. He is also the moderator for the Film Club.

Director of Studies, Middle School Principal

Mrs. Billings has been with Holy Cross for the past decade, and enters her 20th year in education. She is a graduate of Cabrini High School who earned her B.S. in Mathematics Education from St. Mary's Dominican College and a Masters of Arts & Sciences Teaching. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

5th-7th Computer Education, Assistant Football Coach, Assistant Sprint Coach

A 1999 graduate of Brother Martin High School, Mr. Bogran earned a bachelor's degree in Business Management with a concentration in Entrepreneurship from Louisiana State University in 2003 and earned his Masters Degree in Education with a concentration in Sports Management from the University of New Orleans in 2007. Mr. Bogran is in his seventh year of teaching and began his teaching career at Holy Cross in 2003-2006. Before returning to HC, he taught Computer Applications at both Sacred Heart School in Norco and Brother Martin High School. He resides in Kenner with his wife Leigh Ann.

Middle School Math

Cindy Bourque is in her 2nd year at Holy Cross, but 23rd year teaching. This school year she will be teaching 7th grade Pre-Algebra, 7th grade math, 7th grade life science, and has a 7th grade homeroom. Mrs. Bourque is the moderator of the middle school quiz bowl team and attends the Presidents’ tournament with middle school students. After graduating from Archbishop Chapelle High School, she earned a degree in education with a concentration in math from the University of New Orleans. Mrs. Bourque lives in Metairie and has has three cousins who have graduated from Holy Cross School. She is married and has a daughter, Katie, a freshman at Mount Carmel Academy.

Finance Office

Mrs. Bristow has been a part of the Finance Office for over 22 years. She is a resident of Metairie, LA and a graduate of Riverdale High School. She was recently voted by the class of 2007 as their Senior Parade Queen.

Middle School and High School Mathematics

Mr. Carboni may no longer be actively coaching here at HC, but he will forever be known as "Coach" Carboni. Throughout his 28 years on the faculty and 35 years in teaching, Carboni, a native of New Orleans, has taught numerous math courses as well as being a long-time baseball coach. Math courses have included: Math for grades 5 through 7, Math 7 Accelerated, and Algebra I. His coaching career for the Tigers spanned a quarter century, and included being named the 1996 class 5-A Coach of the Year and a 1982 American Legion State Championship. Prior to arriving at Holy Cross back in 1981, Carboni was Head Baseball Coach at East St. John, De La Salle (1975-1978), and St. John Prep (1973-1975). He played baseball for Mid-City Junior College (New Orleans) where he earned All-Conference and All-American Honorable Mention honors, before finishing his collegiate career at Loyola - New Orleans, playing for local coaching legend Louis "Rags" Scheuermann.

7th & 5th grade English

Ms. Chabreck is a native of New Orleans. This is her third year of classroom teaching but her first year at Holy Cross, and she will be teaching seventh and fifth grade English. Before moving to the classroom, she worked for eight years as a private tutor, specializing in ACT preparation and Language Arts on the middle school, high school, and undergraduate levels. She attended Loyola University in New Orleans where she double majored in English Literature and Music. She received her masters degree in music from Louisiana State University. Ms. Chabreck is a member of the National Council of Teachers of English. She is also the flutist at St. Louis Cathedral and the piccolo player of the Gulf Coast Symphony.

High School History, Civics, Athletic Trainer, Senior class Moderator

"Coach Charb" enters his 21st year at Holy Cross, and serves as Social Studies teacher, Athletic Trainer, Senior Moderator, and Yearbook Moderator. He brings 34 years of teaching experience to Holy Cross and currently teaches Civics, American History Honors, and Civics Honors. Mr. Charboneau is a native of Schenectady, New York, and attended Linton High School before earning his B.S. from the State University College at Oneanta, New York and his Masters in Education from the University of New Orleans. In addition, he is a member of the Louisiana Athletic Trainers Association, and is a contibuting photographer to the HC website.

Registrar

Mrs. Claverie is the Registrar. This is Mrs. Claverie's fourth year at Holy Cross School. She previously served as Assistant to the Admissions Director and Headmaster. Mrs. Claverie is a graduate of the Academy of the Holy Angels and attended UNO and Loyola. Judy and her husband Keith, 1968 alumnus, are parents of Kathryn, Kelly and Keith.

Religion Department Chair, Instructional Technology and Media Coordinator

Kelly Claverie, daughter Keith Claverie ’68 and granddaughter of Clifford Claverie ‘35, is a graduate of Archbishop Chapelle High School and the University of Alabama with a BA in Religious Studies and minors in Music and Liberal Arts through the Blount Undergraduate Initiative. She is currently in her third year at Holy Cross and serves as the Religion Department Chair and Instructional Technology and Media Coordinator. Recently, she was named LACUE’s Region 3 Elementary School Teacher of the Year, named both a SMART Exemplary Teacher and a SMART Peer Educator and also became a SMART Certified Trainer. In addition, Kelly proudly serves on the Archbishop Chapelle Alumni Board.

Middle School Band Director, Asst. High School Band Director

Ms. Codina is in her third year as the Director of the Bengal Band and Marching Band Director of the Tiger Band. A native of Lafayette, LA, she is a graduate of Comeaux High School. She is a summa cum laude graduate of Loyola University-New Orleans with a Bachelor of Music Education. Ms. Codina has performed as Principal Flutist with the Loyola Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra, Piccoloist with the Acadian Wind Symphony, and Principal Flute in the CBDNA Intercollegiate Honor Band of 2007. She has received the Theodore Presser Musician of the Year Award, the Rev. R.J. McNaspy Musician of the Year Award, and the Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women Sword of Honor. She has studied flute with Mrs. Patti Adams and Dr. Andrea Loewy and conducting with Dr. Joseph Hebert and Mr. Brian Taylor. Ms. Codina is a member of the Louisiana Music Eduators Association, Louisiana Bandmasters Association, Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women, and Music Educators National Conference.

Finance Office

Ms. Crayton enters her 17th year with Holy Cross and handles all aspects of Accounts Payable. In addition, Ms. Dixie has been one of the most loyal representatives of the Holy Cross Family. She has served in many capacities over the years, including as bookstore manager and even currently assists with the Tiger Café.

Spirit Shop Coordinator

Mrs. Dennis is in her first year at Holy Cross School as coordinator of the Spirit Shop. Michelle is on the HC Parents Club Board and serves as hospitality chair. She is also the treasurer for the Council of Catholic Schools Co-Operative Club. A graduate of Dominican High School, Mrs. Dennis is married to a graduate from the class of 1990 and is the mother of a current 6th grade student.

Dean of Men 8-12, Head Wrestling Coach

Mr. DesOrmeaux not only fills the difficult role of Dean of Men, but also must fill the rather large shoes of Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee, Brother Melchior Polowy, as the Head Coach of the Tiger wrestling program. He has been in education for the past 8 years and enters his third year as an integral part of the Holy Cross Administration. He is a graduate of Holy Cross School, where he received the Holy Cross Man Award, the Tiger Award, and the Catholic Leadership Award. Following his time at 4950 Dauphine, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education (Social Studies) from Louisiana State University and a Masters of Education from the University of New Orleans. DesOrmeaux also enters his third year as the head coach of the famed Holy Cross wrestling program. He served in the same capacity at Andrew Jackson High School in St. Bernard Parish prior to his return to his Alma Mater. Mr. DesOrmeaux was named Metro Wrestling Coach of the Year 2009 as well as Louisiana Wrestling Coach of the Year 2009.

Headmaster

Mr. DiGange has served the Holy Cross Family as Headmaster since 2004. He has led Holy Cross through the toughest time in the history of the school, enduring the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and initiating a plan to maintain the traditions of the institution even in a "rebuilding" mode. Prior to coming to his alma mater (Holy Cross class of 1964), Mr. DiGange spent a decade as the Associate Vice President of the Division of Institutional Advancement at Loyola University New Orleans. In addition, he brings over 25 years of development experience to Holy Cross. During his first tenure (1968-1989) at 4950 Dauphine, he served as a member of the Holy Cross Administration, taught chemistry, algebra, trigonometry, general science, and physical education, and also served as Assistant Headmaster for Development. Mr. DiGange holds a Masters of Education in Administration and Supervision from Tulane University, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Loyola University New Orleans.

Visual Art, French, Spanish

Marion DiPasquale teaches visual art, French and Spanish. She received a bachelor of arts from Tulane with a double major in French and Painting in May 2008. Ms. DiPasquale studied at schools in France; Quetzaltenango, Guatemala and Florence, Italy as well as with her father, Paul DiPasquale, a highly acclaimed Virginia sculptor. Upon graduation, she received the Newcomb College prize for excellence in drawing.

Assistant to the Guidance Counselors, the Registrar and the Curriculum and Development Director

Carolyn joined Holy Cross in May of 2009, as the Assistant to the Guidance Counselors, the Registrar and the Curriculum and Development Director. She grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, and earned her B.A. in English from the University of Texas at Austin and her Masters Degree in Education from the University of Houston. Carolyn is married to David Lawhon and has two children, Alex (18) and Sarah (16). She enjoys traveling, reading, history, gardening, animals, and needlework.

Professional School Counselor, 10th and 11th Grades

Karen joined the Holy Cross family in the spring of 2008 as an intern for her graduate counseling program, and began her career as a school counselor last year. She attended the University of Arkansas (yes, she’s a Razorback!) and currently attends Our Lady of Holy Cross College. She has two children, a son age 18, and a daughter age 12. Karen and her family had lived all over the country before arriving in New Orleans seven years ago. She enjoys traveling, music, reading, gardening, and needle point.

8th Grade and High School History, Social Studies Department Chair, Assistant Football Coach, Head Golf Coach

Along with being Social Studies Department Chairman, Mr. Ellzey teaches Louisiana History in the 8th Grade Center and World History Honors to upperclassmen. He is beginning his 6th year as a member of the Holy Cross faculty and his 15th year in education. He is a graduate of Jesuit High School and earned a B.A. from the University of New Orleans. His athletic duties include coaching the offensive line on the varsity football team as well as serving as the Head Golf Coach. He is a member of the Louisiana High School Coaches Association and the Louisiana Football Coaches Association. He began his career as a volunteer football coach at Jesuit. He then served as a social studies and physical education teacher at Archbishop Rummel where he was an assistant varsity football, basketball, and track coach. In 2001, he became the Head Football Coach at St. Martin’s Episcopal School where he remained for 3 years before coming to Holy Cross. Mr. Ellzey lives in Destrehan with his wife Michelle and has 3 children: Bryce, a member of the Holy Cross Class of 2009, Reid (4), and Brooklyn (2).

Librarian

Ms. Falgoust begins her second year at Holy Cross as the school librarian. After graduating from Our Lady of Holy Cross College, she worked as a librarian at both elementary and high schools in the metro area. Ms. Falgoust is currently serving as the secretary of the Greater New Orleans Catholic Library Association and is a member of the National Catholic Library Association. This year, she received the prestigious Sr. Mary Aquin Lorio Award for her outstanding service as a librarian. Ms. Falgoust is married with two children and has one grandchild.

10th Grade Religion, Business

Mr. Ferry is starting his first year at Holy Cross High School where he will teach 10th Grade Religion and Business. He is a graduate of Brother Martin High School class of '90 and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and a minor in Management from the University of New Orleans class of '94. He is certified through the Archdiocese of New Orleans in Religious Studies and has also been in the Master's Program at Notre Dame Seminary. Mr. Ferry has past experience in education as the Religion Department Chair at Brother Martin High School and as an Eight Grade, 10th Grade, and Senior Religion teacher. Mr. Ferry has three years experience in school leadership as one of Brother Martin's Disciplinarians. After Hurricane Katrina, Mr. Ferry entered the private business sector, but is extremely excited about his return to teaching at Holy Cross High School. Mr. Ferry is a native of New Orleans and is a proud husband and father.

Director of Counseling and Guidance

Dr. Fonseca brings 8 years of post-secondary and 4 years of secondary education to Holy Cross. He currently serves as the Director of Counseling and Guidance. As a native of Houma, LA, Fonseca graduated from Terrebonne High School before going on to earn his Bachelors from Loyola University New Orleans and his Masters in both Educational Administration and School Counseling from the University of New Orleans. In addition, he earned a Doctorate with Honors in School Counseling at Mississippi State University. Besides his duties at HC, Fonseca is an Adjunct Instructor of Psychology and Graduate Studies in Counseling at Our Lady of Holy Cross College. He has earned numerous awards throughout his career, including: The Louisiana Counseling Association's Professional Contribution Award, Who's Who in Colleges and Universities and is the former President of the Louisiana Association for Spiritual, Ethical and Religious Valuess in Counseling (a division of the Louisiana Counseling Association). Dr. Fonseca is also a member of the American School Counseling Association, International Association of Marriage and Family Counseling and the Knights of Columbus.

Webmaster, Webmastering class, Web Team Moderator

Mr. Fortenberry is currently in his first year at Holy Cross School as the new Webmaster. He has already redesigned the HC website as well as developed applications for the Tiger Café, Vehicle Registration and Carpool Connection. In addition, he will be teaching a web design class using the latest technologies. Mr. Fortenberry has an Associate's Degree in Computer Information Systems and is currently pursuing a BA in Creative Writing at UNO. Proficient in VB.NET, C#.NET, SQL Server, JavaScript, FLASH, XML, AJAX and Silverlight, Ben has worked as a .NET Developer in the insurance and manufacturing industries for the last five years. He is married to the talented and beautiful Kolleen Fortenberry and in addition to his 1 1/2 yr old son Abram, he and his wife are also the proud parents of Ivan Alexander, born in March of '09.

Administrative Receptionist

Mrs. Gerrick is entering her first year at Holy Cross School. She worked in the Human Resources/Payroll profession as a Payroll Administrator. Entering into education, Mrs. Gerrick worked in Early Childhood, 5 years in Administration and 12 years teaching. She developed, directed and worked as a group counselor for the Holy Cross Early Childhood Summer Camp program. She received her certification in Payroll and Accounting Administration from the University of New Orleans and her Early Childhood education from Delgado Community College. Mrs. Gerrick was a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children for 10 years.

Middle School Physical Education, Middle School History, 8th Grade Football Coach

Mr. Giambelluca, a native of New Orleans, teaches Middle School History and Physical Education as well as holding the position of 8th Grade Football Coach and T.C.A.C. (Tiger Cub Athletic Club). He has been a big part of Holy Cross for the past 25 years and adds 50 years of teaching experience to the staff. He is a St. Aloysius graduate who completed his B.A. from Southeastern Louisiana. Coach Giambellucca is a member of the Italian-American Sports Hall of Fame, the American Legion, and was a intramural boxing champion at both LSU and Southeastern. He has been a football coach at Holy Name of Mary (Asst. Coach), Behrman High School (Asst. Coach), O.P. Walker (Head Coach), and at HC (Head & Asst. Coach). He also played football at Hinds Junior College and LSU.

High School Religion, High School English, Religion Department Chair

Don Greco was born in Gulfport, Mississippi, but has lived in the New Orleans area most of his life. He is a graduate of the Holy Cross class of ’64 and holds a BA from Loyola University with a major in Sociology and a minor in English. After receiving his MEd in Guidance and Counseling from Loyola in 1970, he served two years in the U.S. Army as an intelligence officer with the U.S. Army Security Agency. He is certified by the Archdiocese of New Orleans Institute of Catechetics to teach high-school religion. During the course of his thirty-six years in education he has taught English, journalism, speech, art, social studies, and religious studies in grades five through eight as well as working as dean of students and as a guidance counselor. He is in his twenty-sixth year at Holy Cross and currently teaches Religion 8.

English I and English II Honors, Cheerleading Coach, and Blue Circle Moderator

Ms. Haasé teaches both English I and English II Honors and serves as the Cheerleading Coach and Blue Circle Moderator. Though this is only her second year on the Holy Cross faculty, she has been part of the Holy Cross Family for quite some time. Her mother taught at Holy Cross for nearly twenty years. While attending high school at Mt. Carmel Academy in New Orleans, she was a majorette who twirled during the Holy Cross halftime shows, and was a Holy Cross Cheerleader. She earned a B.S. in English (concentrating in Secondary Ed.) from LSU and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Curriculum and Instruction at UNO.

High School Mathematics, Fall Golf Coach, Head Tennis Coach

Mr. Heller has spent all but one of his 38 years in education as part of the faculty of Holy Cross. He currently teaches Calculus, Advanced Math and Computer Science. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southwest Louisiana (now known as ULL) in Secondary Education, majoring in Math with a minor in English. Mr. Heller is also a Holy Cross Alum of the class of 1966. He is the Tigers' Golf Coach in the Fall and Tennis Coach in the Spring.

High School English, 8th Grade class Moderator, Karate Coach

Mr. Heller begins his 15th year at Holy Cross and currently holds the position of English Department Head. Additionally, he is the HC Karate Coach and the Director of the 8th Grade Center. He is an Alum of Holy Cross (1987), who earned his degree from the University of New Orleans in 1992. Mr. Heller has earned the Holy Cross Silver Medallion Award for Art and the Leadership Award at UNO. He is a member of the World Chanbara Federation, the United States Chanbara Association as a Louisiana representative from 2001-2007, and the United States Karate Alliance as a World Judge from 2001-2007. Coach Heller has directed the Karate Team since 1997. As a martial arts competitor himself, he has received the following accolades: 1995 - USA-NKF Regional (Gold Beginner), 1996 - USANILF Regional (Silver Intermediate), 1997 - USA-NKF Regional (Bronze Advanced), 2001 & 2004 USKA World Champion (Black Belt), and the 2002 USKA Runner-up World Champion (Black Belt).

6th & 7th Grade Science, Asst. Track Coach, Equipment Manager

Mr. Herzog returns to his alma mater after attending the University of Miami, where he received a B.S. in Education and worked as an equipment manager for the football team. Here at Holy Cross, Mr. Herzog will be teaching Physical Science and Life Science to 6th and 7th graders, as well as coaching track and executing the role of Equipment Manager for the football team. Mr. Herzog was born and raised in Southeast Louisiana. Coming from a family of teachers, his grandmother retired from teaching after more than 40 years and his mother is entering her 28th year of teaching in Jefferson Parish schools.

Middle School Science

Marie Hooper is a graduate of Dominican High School and the University of New Orleans with a degree in special education. She has three years of teaching experience at JC Ellis Elementary School. After taking time off from teaching to be home with her children, Ms. Hooper returned to teaching as the fifth and sixth grade science teacher. She is currently attending classes at UNO to further her education.

Choral Directory

Mrs. Hotard teaches all Chorus classes for grades 5 - 12 at Holy Cross and directs the Crossmen Choir. Mrs. Hotard received her Bachelor of Music Therapy and her Master of Music Education at Loyola University New Orleans. Mrs. Hotard is a frequent performer in local musical theatre and opera productions.

Physical Education, Asst. Football, Powerlifting

Mr. Hrapmann teaches and coaches at Holy Cross. As an alum of Holy Cross, Hrapmann brings 13 years of experience back to our historic institution. He attended Northwestern State, Nicholls State and UNO, earning a Business Administration degree. Additionally, he is linebacker coach and off-season program director on the football staff, and is the Powerlifting Coach. Coach Hrapmann has coached at St. Mary's, Nicholls State, Natchitoches, Eunice, Jesuit and Destrehan. He played football for Northwestern State, earning All-GSC honors along with having the highest g.p.a. for defensive backs three times. He also received the Demon Award, was team captain and MVP, and is a member of the Northwestern Hall of Fame.

Director of Curriculum

Mrs. Hrapmann is completing her second year as Director of Curriuculm, Instruction and Professional Development at Holy Cross School. She received her B.A. in Secondary English Education and her Masters +30 with a Reading Specialist from Northwestern State University. Retired from the classroom after 34 years with most of those years being in Gifted Education, Mrs. Hrapmann was one of the first 43 teachers in Louisiana to achieve National Board Certification. She has presented at the district, state and national levels on subjects such as reading across the curriculum and project based learning. Mrs. Hrapmann was inducted into the Northwestern State Hall of Distinguished Educators and serves as a member of the Northwestern Alumni Board. She has two sons who live in Thibodaux and is married to Coach Kenny Hrapmann '68. They live in the Gentilly area.

High School Executive Assistant

Mrs. Hunnicutt is the executive assistant to the High School Principal and is in charge of high school attendance on a daily basis. She is a graduate of Cabrini High School in New Orleans and currently resides in LaPlace. Mrs. Hunnicutt is in her 9th year at Holy Cross; her husband and two sons are alumni.

Art, Asst. Football

Warren Irwin teaches high school art and coaches middle school football in his third year at Holy Cross. His Bachelor of Arts in studio art was completed at Trinity University(TX) in 1998 and he obtained his Master of Arts in Teaching from Jacksonville University(FL) in 2000. As a student at Trinity, Mr. Irwin lettered four times in football and has coached at both the middle and high school levels for eight years. In his teaching career, he has completed fellowships awarded by Columbia University Teachers' College, Kansas City Art Institute, and Skidmore College, as well as held internships at New Orleans Museum of Art(where he was also employed at one time), the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and Jacksonville Museum of Modern Art. In his career as an artist, Mr. Irwin has had four exhibitions of his work since 2004, and has had his work shown in national, regional, and local competitions on four occasions in 2009. He also has experience as an academic advisor at Tulane University. A native of New Orleans, he is a graduate of Metairie Park Country Day School, as is his wife. He, his wife, and two step daughters welcomed a baby boy in June of 2009.

Director of Campus Ministry, High School Religion, Peer Ministry Moderator, Asst. Football Coach

A member of the class of 2000, Mr. Jackson is in his second year as a religion teacher at Holy Cross School. Mr. Jackson earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management at Dillard University in New Orleans. Along with teaching high school religion, Mr. Jackson will head the Holy Cross Campus Ministry Program and coach 8th grade football. While at Holy Cross, he played on the football team, threw the shotput for track & field, was a member of the chorus and a Tiger Award recipient. In 1999, he was a part of the first "Immersion Trip" put on by the Congregation of Holy Cross Southwest Province. Mr. Jackson and his wife Rachael welcomed their first baby in June 2009.

Admissions Director

Brian Kitchen enters his twelfth year in education and his tenth at Holy Cross. He is a graduate of the University of New Orleans. Working as Director of Admissions for the past five years, he previously served as an English teacher, class moderator, Director of Student Activities and varsity soccer coach. Mr. Kitchen has been happily married for eight years, has two daughters and a boxer named Gumbeau.

Spanish, English, Assistant Tennis Coach, School Newspaper, Yearbook

Mr. Kite is a graduate of St. Paul’s High School in Covington and earned a B.A. (Spanish; Honors Interdisciplinary Study) at the University of Georgia. Before returning to New Orleans in 2008, he worked in New York as an assistant editor at Esquire magazine and prior to that, taught English as a second language in Peru. He currently teaches Seventh Grade Spanish, Spanish II, and English III. In addition to his classroom duties, Mr. Kite is the assistant tennis coach and will be helping moderate the school newspaper and yearbook.

Middle School Dean of Men, Director of Student Activities, Asst. Baseball Coach

Mr. Kornick is in his third year at HC as both a teacher and assistant baseball coach. He earned a B.A. in Communications from Southeastern Louisiana University where he also played baseball and was team captain in 1997. He coached 4 seasons at Archbishop Hannan High School, three of which ended with district titles and quarterfinal playoff berths. While at Hannan, he also served as Athletic Director, overseeing boys and girls athletics. Coach Kornick has also coached at the collegiate level as a grad assistant at Southeastern and as an assistant at Laredo Junior College (Texas), where the team made the post-season for the first time in 12 years. He has taught for eight years.

Director of Development

A 1965 graduate of Holy Cross School, Mr. Lagarde earned his Bachelor of Science degree (magna cum laude) in Accounting from Southeastern Louisiana University. At SLU, Mr. Lagarde was a member of Phi Kappa Phi, national honor society and at graduation, he was the recipient of the Scholarship Key of the Louisiana Society of Certified Public Accountants (top graduate-Department of Accounting), the Delta Sigma Pi Scholarship Key (top graduate-College of Business Administration) and the President's Medal of Academic Achievement (top graduate-Division of Applied Sciences). He is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Society of Louisiana CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs. Before joining the staff of Holy Cross School in 2003, Mr. Lagarde was employed for thirty-five years in public accounting and financial management in a number of industries including retail pharmacy and defense contracting. He has been an instructor at Holy Cross and has served as a lecturer/speaker at national conferences of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores and Xavier University School of Pharmacy. He has served on the school's Board of Directors and is the father of a Holy Cross graduate.

8th Grade Science

Mrs. Lavender is entering her first year at Holy Cross. She is teaching all the 8th grade Science classes. She graduated from High School at Cabrini and graduated from UNO with a BS in General Studies. Mrs. Lavender is married to a Holy Cross alumni and she has a family legacy at Holy Cross which extends to her grandfather, uncle, brother-in-laws and father-in-law.

High School English

Ms. LeMay teaches English II, III, and VH. She received her B.A. in Literature from LSU in Baton Rouge, her M.A. in British Literature from UNO, and is certified to teach Secondary English in Louisiana and Georgia. This will be Ms. LeMay’s 12th year at Holy Cross. She graduated from Andrew Jackson High School and was a life-long resident of St. Bernard until Hurricane Katrina. She currently lives in Ponchatoula where she moved after Katrina. Ms. LeMay’s youngest child will be a senior at Holy Cross for the 2009-2010 school year. She also has a 23 year old daughter and two granddaughters, ages 4 and 5.

High School and Middle School French, Speech, American History, and PSAT prep

Ms. Lenzo is entering her second year at Holy Cross, teaching French I and II, 5th grade French, and Speech I. She is also co-teaching an American History class with Coach Charboneau and running an after-school/weekend PSAT preparation class. Ms. Lenzo is originally from Chicago and graduated from Lincoln Park High School in 2004 with an International Baccalaureate Diploma. She then graduated cum laude from Tulane University in 2008, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and French. While at Tulane, she studied abroad in Paris, France at the Sorbonne University and the Catholic Institute. Ms. Lenzo began teaching at Holy Cross last October, teaching English as well as ACT and PSAT test preparation, and is very excited to be a part of the Holy Cross family.

Biology, Biology I Honors and Anatomy and Physiology Honors

Mr. Lindsey teaches Biology I, Biology I Honors and Anatomy and Physiology Honors. Mr. Lindsey is also part of the coaching staff for both baseball and basketball. This is his fourth year in education. After graduating from Archbishop Rummel in 1996, Mr. Lindsey received a B.S. in pre-med biology from Loyola University of New Orleans. During a distinguished career as a four-year letterman and two-time all-conference catcher, Mr. Lindsey obtained career and single-season records in five offensive categories. After college, he was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals baseball organization in the 29th round of the 2000 draft as a pitcher. He enjoys the outdoors and his hobbies include photography, gardening, automobiles and weightlifting. His father was a member of the class of 1969.

5th & Ninth grade Religion, Assistant Basketball Coach

Mr. Lopez is a first-year teacher who will teach fifth and ninth grade Religion. He also will assist with the varsity basketball team. Mr. Lopez graduated from Holy Cross in 2004 and then graduated from Loyola University New Orleans in 2008 with a degree in communications. Mr. Lopez has helped coach the Holy Cross 8th grade team for the last two seasons and helped with the 6th grade team the year before that. Mr. Lopez has spent the last five years as a youth minister at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in New Orleans and has also taught CCD classes at the church before. He is a lifelong resident of New Orleans and is very excited to be teaching at his alma mater.

High School Religion, Head Basketball Coach

Coach Lumas has spent all of his nine years in education with Holy Cross School. He currently teaches 7th and 8th grade Religion and is the Head Basketball Coach of the Tigers. Mr. Lumas is a graduate of St. Augustine High School and Loyola University New Orleans. Prior to becoming the Head Coach of the Tigers, Coach Lumas served as an assistant at HC from 2000-2005 and an assistant for the Wolfpack of Loyola from 1997-1999. In addition, he played for the Wolfpack in 1996 and 1997. During his time at Holy Cross, Mr. Lumas has taught P.E., History, Psychology, Sociology, and 7th, 8th, 9th, and 11th grade Religion.

High School Science, Science Department Head, Assistant Athletic Director

Sue Ellen Lyons began her teaching career in 1966. She teaches environmental science and geology at Holy Cross School in New Orleans, where she has served since 1978. She is chair of the HC Science Department and the Assistant Athletic Director. In addition to teaching at HC, Sue Ellen is an adjunct professor at Herzing University, teaching Environmental Science, as well as teaching Historical Geology at Delgado Community College. During her career, Sue Ellen has received awards at the local, state and national levels, including the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching and the National Wetlands Educator of the Year Award. Sue Ellen is the mother of a son (HC, ’87) and has two grandchildren, Colby (HC, ’10) and Lauren. She enjoys photography, reading, and saving the Earth.

Middle School Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Magee is in her third year with Holy Cross and will begin her new position this year as the Middle School Administrative Assistant. She is a graduate of Andrew Jackson High School and currently resides in Pearl River. Her son, Jamie, graduated from Holy Cross in 1990.

Foreign Language Department Chair, Spanish, Prep Math

Mrs. Myrtha Mandella enters her first year at Holy Cross as the Foreign Language Department Chair. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, she is billingual; her father started out as a college math professor and worked his way up to the Ministry of Education. As a diplomat, he requested to be transferred to New Orleans so that his children could learn English. Mrs. Mandella is entering her tenth year of teaching Spanish (the 1st 5 years at St. Clement of Rome in Metairie, one at Stratford Senior High in Houston, one at St. Mary Magdalen in Metairie, and the last 2 at Holy Rosary High School in New Orleans). While at Holy Rosary, Mrs. Mandella was selected as Teacher of the Year. She attended St. Francis Cabrini, which is where Holy Cross now resides and graduated from John F Kennedy Senior High in New Orleans and the University of New Orleans (BS in Math with concentration in Engineering). Mrs. Mandella is married to a HC alum ('78) and has 3 children. Her eldest daughter just had her first child in June, the middle daughter is a Junior at LSU, and her son is a 9th grader at HC.

High School English

Mrs. Marwah is a High School Language Arts teacher here at Holy Cross. She has taught for eight years, and the 2008-09 school year is her third at HC. Specifically, she teaches English IV and Speech. Mrs. Marwah previously taught in Kansas where she was nominated for Kansas Teacher of the Year.

Geometry and Computer Applications

In her first year at Holy Cross, Mrs. Mitchell brings over 35 years of experience in math and computer education. She is a native of the city and is a graduate of Archbishop Blenk and UNO where she received her BA and M Ed degrees. She has previously taught at John McDonogh, Seton Academy, Redeemer-Seton High and St. Mary Magdalen Middle School. She is also a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

High School Principal

Dr. Joseph H. Murry, Jr. has been the principal of Holy Cross School since 2004. He has spent a quarter century in education, earning Area II Principal of the Year (1997-98) of Orleans Public Schools as well as High School Principal of the Year for Orleans Parish (2001-02). Dr. Murry is a graduate of St. Aloysius High School, New Orleans, earned his B.A. from the University of Southwestern Louisiana (presently ULL), a Masters from Southeastern Louisiana University, and his PhD from the University of New Orleans. While attending USL, he was the Gulf States Conference Champion in the shot put and was the captain of the Ragin’ Cajun Track Team. He also competed as a member of the Weightlifting Team where, as the team’s captain, he set 4 national heavyweight records en route to a national championship. His other weightlifting accolades include: Champion 1968 (set 3 national records), AAU Sr. National Champion 1968 (set 2 national records); All-American Weightlifting Team 1968; YMCA National Champion 1972; 1972 Olympic Trials (3rd place Heavyweight). Dr. Murry was an assistant coach in football, Head Tennis and Soccer Coach, and the Athletic Director at Abramson High School, before being promoted to Principal of the New Orleans school. In addition, he served as an assistant coach at Metairie Park Country Day School and was the Strength Coach and Physical Coordinator for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League.

Middle School Social Studies

Mrs. Nicoladis teaches 5th Grade Social Studies and is the moderator for the National Honor Society and the Brother Andre Service Society for middle school students. She is a native New Orleanian, and brings six years of educational experience to our new campus on Paris Avenue. She graduated from St. Martin's Episcopal before earning her B.A. in Sociology from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX and has a Masters in Education. In addition, she assists the HC website as a contributing photographer.

Assistant to the Director of Admissions

Patricia Norman is in her first year at Holy Cross. She served as Senior class Parent Representative for the 2008-09 school year and is currently the Holy Cross Representative for the Council of Catholic School Co-Operative Clubs. A lifelong resident of Lakeview, she is a graduate of Mt. Carmel Academy and attended St. Mary’s Dominican College and Delgado. She is the mother of Justin Frank, class of 2009 Valedictorian.

Director of Public Affairs

In her second year at Holy Cross School, Mrs. Raynal brings over 20 years of marketing experience to her role as Director of Public Affairs. She graduated from Dominican High School and LSU with a degree in advertising. Mrs. Raynal is the mother of two Holy Cross students.

High School Physical Education, Football Coach

Coach Rebaudo is the Department Head of the Holy Cross Physical Education Department and is the Summer Camp Director. He has spent the past eleven years working in education, with the last 6 years on the faculty of Holy Cross. Rebaudo is a graduate of Archbishop Rummel High School, and he received his Accounting Degree from LSU. He is the Assistant Head Football Coach, Defensive Coordinator, and Head Track Coach for the Tigers. Prior to coming on board, Rebaudo was an assistant football, J.V. basketball and head track coach at Ridgewood Prep (1997-2000), and assistant football and track coach at Archbishop Rummel (2000-2002).

Middle School Mathematics, Science

Starting her second year at Holy Cross, this is Ms. Richard's fourth year teaching Middle School Mathematics. She is a graduate of Terrebonne High School in Houma and has a bachelor's degree from the University of New Orleans. Ms. Richard also has a son at Holy Cross, Jude Richard. She enjoys pursuing entrepreneurial business ideas and hopes to influence the Holy Cross Students in pursuing their own as well.

Middle School Counselor

Rebecca Schoen is the 8th and 9th grade counselor as well as, the Moderator of the Video Game Club. She has earned her Master's Degree with an emphasis in School Counseling from the University of New Orleans and has a National Counselor Certification (NCC). This will be her third year at Holy Cross. Life long resident of St. Bernard Parish, Mrs. Schoen has just had her first child, Abigail, this past summer.

Religion, Physical Education, 8th Grade Football

Mr. Serio enters his 36th year of teaching and 24th at Holy Cross. This year he will be teaching 6th grade Religion, 5th grade PE, and coaching 8th grade football. Mr. Serio was the Head Basketball Coach at Holy Cross during the 1986-87 season also served as Dean of Students in the Middle School for 5 years along with acting as the Head Tennis Coach. He's also served as head coaching of Baseball at Pope John Paul in Slidell and Basketball at St. John Prep in New Orleans. Mr. Serio spent a number of years as varsity assistant in baseball and football here at Holy Cross. Graduating from Holy Cross in 1969, he was a member of the state championship baseball team that same year. Mr. Serio holds a B.S. degree in Health and Physical Education from the University of New Orleans and currently lives in Hammond with his wife.

High School Journalism, Geography, Football Coach

Mr. Simpson has spent 8 of his fourteen years teaching at Holy Cross. He is an Alum of Brother Martin High School and earned his B.A. in Communications from LSU. He currently teaches World Geography and Physical Education, and serves as the moderator of the Holy Cross Bulletin. Simpson has worked his way up the football coaching ranks to the position of Offensive Coordinator for the Tigers. Positions he has held have included: Defensive Backs Coach at HC (1994-1995), Quarterbacks & Wide Receivers Coach at Jesuit (1995-2000), Offensive Coordinator at Brother Martin (2000-2001), and Receivers Coach back at HC (2001-2005). Mr. Simpson is a resident of Metairie, where he resides with his wife Rachelle, and his daughter Hanley and son Cade.

Development Assistant

Mrs. Sixkiller has been with Holy Cross for more than 26 years and currently serves as an Administrative Assistant with the Development Department. She is a graduate of Francis T. Nicholls High School and Spencer Business College. Mrs. Sixkiller is an important part of the Office of Development, assisting with events such as Family Day, the Annual Alumni Golf Tournament, the Alumni Fishing Rodeo, the Blue & Gold Gala, the Annual Ladies Luncheon, Alumni Reunions and the day-to-day functions of Alumni Giving.

Executive Assistant to the Headmaster

Technology Assistant

Eric Supan is the technology assistant at Holy Cross and is continuing his first year. He is responsible for the upkeep of the students laptops as well as helping out the faculty and staff. He attended Covington High School and graduated from LSU in 2009. Eric has been working with and fixing computers for six years.

Development Assistant

Gloria Sykes is completing her first year at Holy Cross. She is a graduate of Riverdale High School, Cameron Business College and attended Delgado Community College. Mrs. Sykes also resides in Kenner.

Assistant to the Director of Capital Campaigns

Pat brings 18 years of marketing and sales experience to Holy Cross. She most recently worked at Hospice Compassus as a Hospice Consultant for the last 3 years. Prior to Hurricane Katrina, she was employed at Malta Square Senior Living Residence for 8 years in Marketing and Admissions. Pat has been involved with Holy Cross fundraisers for over 11 years including the Holiday Luncheon and the Gold and Blue Gala. Pat graduated from Grace King High School and attended LSU. She resides in Metairie with her husband, Luke. She has 3 children – her youngest son, Craig, graduated from Holy Cross in ’05.

High School Mathematics, Swim Coach, Mu Alpha Theta Moderator

Mr. Turner teaches Algebra and Physics and is the Head Swimming Coach. A graduate of New Site High School (New Site, MS) Mr. Turner earned a degree in Biological Engineering from Mississippi State University.

Tiger Band Director

Mr. Urbaszewski is in his sixth year at Holy Cross and his 10th year of teaching. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a Master’s degree in clarinet performance from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois. He was in the Marine Corps Band from 1969-1973 and the United States Navy Band from 1984-2004. He has been married to Beth since 1981 and they have two daughters, Catherine and Madeleine. Catherine is a junior at Loyola University and Madeleine is a junior at Mount Carmel high school.

Middle School Math, Middle School Drama, Speech, Cheerleading Coach, and Blue Circle Moderator

Miss Watson is beginning her 3rd year at Holy Cross. She teaches Math 5, Drama 6, and Speech. She also coaches the HC Cheerleaders and is the Blue Circle Moderator. After graduating from Mount Carmel Academy, she went on to Loyola University New Orleans. In her free time, Miss Watson also teaches dance classes at a local studio. Her father and brothers are all graduates of Holy Cross and are often seen on campus (Dick Watson '66, Rick Watson '92, Dr. Kevin Watson '94).

5th, 6th, and 7th grade Counselor

Matt joined the Holy Cross Family in the Fall of 2008 as the 5th Grade Counseling and Computer Applications instructor. This year he will be working as the Middle School Counselor serving the 5th, 6th, and 7th grades. A life-long resident of New Orleans, Matt attended high school at an institution on Carrollton and Banks(which shall remain nameless) before completing his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Spring Hill College followed by his Master’s Degree in Counseling from Loyola New Orleans. He is currently working on his Ph.D. in Counselor Education at the University of New Orleans. In his free time Matt enjoys traveling, live music, unorthodox conversations, and his undying allegiance to the Who D’at Nation. In April Matt will be getting married to his fiancé, Lauren, at the New Orleans Zoo surrounded by family, friends, and a four-ton Asian elephant.

High School Mathematics, Chemistry

Mr. Westfall brings more than 10 years of education experience to Holy Cross School as a chemistry and geometry teacher. A 1992 graduate of Holy Cross School, he went on to graduate from Louisiana State University with a bachelor of science in Conservation Biology. Mr. Westfall is currently furthering his education by pursuing a masters of science degree from the University of New Orleans.

High School Physical Education, Head Football Coach

Mr. Wilson has been the Head Football Coach and a Physical Education teacher for the past 7 years. He is a Holy Cross School Alum and has been teaching for 38 years. Wilson earned his Bachelor of Science degree from LSU, where he also was captain of the Fighting Tiger Football Team. Wilson was an All-SEC selection, and he was a member of Tiger teams that competed in the Sugar and Cotton Bowls. In addition, he is a member of the LHSAA Louisiana Football Coaches Association and the American Football Coaches Association.

Head Athletic Trainer

Mr. Hunter Yentzen is starting his first year at Holy Cross as the Head Athletic Trainer. Mr. Yentzen received his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology-Athletic Training from Louisiana State University and his Masters Degree in Sports Management from The University of Southern Mississippi. Mr. Yentzen is a member of the Louisiana Athletic Trainers’ Association, Southeastern Athletic Trainers’ Association and National Athletic Trainers’ Association. Originally from Iowa, Louisiana, he relocated to Metairie this summer and is getting married to Mary Katherine Gwin of Vicksburg this fall.