Alumni

Grand Reunion

WEEKEND REGISTRATIONS

    • Mike Vrabel '93

2024 Distinguished Alumni Award

The Walsh Jesuit Distinguished Alumni Award in its 24th year is presented to an alumnus or alumna who has utilized his or her talents in an exemplary way to serve God and the community, consistent with Walsh Jesuit’s mission of “Men and Women for Others.” Through consistent application of high moral and ethical standards, the recipient will have achieved outstanding post-graduation success in one or more of the following areas:
  • Service to family, faith, and fellow men and women
  • Contributions to their profession or vocation
  • Leadership in civic, social work or the arts
  • Promotion of intellectual or cultural pursuits
When Mike Vrabel was a student-athlete at Walsh Jesuit, he was very well-known for his excellence as a three-sport athlete in football, basketball, and track. His excellence on the gridiron earned him a scholarship to The Ohio State University, where he excelled as a player. Mike was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, and later went on to the New England Patriots, where he won 3 Super Bowl titles and was named All-Pro in 2007. 

After retiring as a player, Mike made a quick ascent in the coaching ranks, first as an assistant with the Buckeyes before moving to the NFL and the Houston Texans. After just 3 seasons in Houston, Mike was named head coach by the Tennessee Titans in 2018. He quickly established himself as one of the elite coaches in the NFL, guiding the Titans to the playoffs in just his second season, making it all the way to the AFC Championship game. He was named AP Coach of the Year in the 2021-22 season when his Titans won 12 games and earned another trip to the playoffs.

The life of an NFL Coach requires very long hours, but Mike has still found time to live out WJ’s mission of men and women for others. He is involved in many philanthropic and charitable efforts, giving of his time, talent, and treasure to his high school alma mater, and founding the “2nd & 7 Foundation” with former Buckeye teammates Luke Fickell and Ryan Miller. 2nd & 7’s mission is to promote reading by providing free books and positive role models to kids in need while encouraging young athletes of the community to pay it forward. The foundation has donated almost a million books to kids in need all across the country during its 25 years of existence. 

“Of all the unbelievable alumnus of Walsh Jesuit, it is truly an honor to be recognized for this award,” said Mike. “Walsh Jesuit, and the people who helped make it special, helped shape my success in life. It is because of Walsh Jesuit that I was prepared for each step that came my way.”

Mike Vrabel’s #84 will be retired on September 13 when the Warriors take on St. Ignatius at Conway Memorial Stadium.

    • Marvin Grandison, Jr. '03

Young Alumni Award 2024

The Walsh Jesuit Young Alumni Award in its inaugural year is presented to an alumnus or alumna under the age of 40 and has utilized his or her talents in an exemplary way to serve God and the community, consistent with Walsh Jesuit’s mission of “Men and Women for Others.” Through consistent application of high moral and ethical standards, the recipient will have achieved outstanding post-graduation success in one or more of the following areas:
  • Service to family, faith, and fellow men and women
  • Contributions to their profession or vocation
  • Leadership in civic, social work or the arts
  • Promotion of intellectual or cultural pursuits
Marvin Grandison, Jr. is the perfect Warrior to earn the inaugural Young Alumni award as he has dedicated his professional life shaping young minds as a school counselor at the National Inventors Hall of Fame STEM High School in Akron. Marvin has been instrumental in the development and mentoring of youth through his role at NIHF STEM High School. His commitment extended beyond academics into athletics, where he coached the Akron STEM High School Girls Flag Football team, an initiative sponsored by the Cleveland Browns and recognized by the Board of Education. He was also an active mentor with the iC.A.R.E. mentoring program, focusing on school-based guidance and support. His professional achievements and dedication to mentorship have significantly impacted many lives, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages personal and academic growth.

Recently, Marvin was honored at the prestigious "Salute to Significant African American Males Breakfast," an event hosted by the Akron Chapter of the Ohio Black Women’s Leadership Caucus (OBWLC) because of his dedication to the unification and enhancement leadership abilities among black women. He is also a proud member of the Air Force Reserves, serving for 11 years, including two tours of duty in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. His service was recognized with a Commendation Medal following his tour from April 2022 to October 2022 in the UAE, highlighting his commitment to both national and community service.

“My experience at Walsh Jesuit was instrumental in my life's journey,” said Marvin. “Being true men and women for others has been the cornerstone of my life and is a concept I live by.  WJ instilled a true passion for helping others and putting their needs before your own. I've worked in multiple sectors including corrections, community and now education. I find the strongest sense of joy in helping others reach their full potential.”

We can't wait to welcome our "fours" and "nines" back to the Walsh Jesuit campus August 9 & 10.  Planning has begun and class committees are forming. 

Grand Reunion Events

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As a Christ-centered community, we strive to be Men and Women for and with Others.

Walsh Jesuit High School

4550 Wyoga Lake Road,
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44224-1059
330.929.4205 (local)
800.686.4694