Golf Outing 2025

Honoring Susan Cardillo '88

Animal Curator of the Central Park Zoo

We are thrilled to honor Susan Cardillo, a distinguished alumna of Cardinal Spellman High School, Class of 1988, at this year's Golf Outing. Susan is currently the Animal Curator at the Central Park Zoo, a role she holds with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). Her journey from Spellman to the world of animal care and conservation has been nothing short of inspiring.

After graduating from Spellman, Susan pursued her passion for biology, earning a B.S. degree in Biology from SUNY New Paltz. She later advanced her studies with a Master's degree in Biology from City College of New York (CCNY), specializing in Animal Behavior, Evolution, and Ecology. With over 30 years of experience in animal care, Susan has dedicated her career to advancing wildlife conservation and education.

A committed member of the Cardinal Spellman Board of Trustees since 2022, Susan's dedication to her alma mater goes beyond serving in an official capacity. She has been an integral part of the Annual Golf Outing Committee for many years, including as Golf Outing Chair in 2023. Her ongoing involvement with the school also includes being a frequent attendee at Career Day, where she shared her insights with students. Notably, Susan delivered the keynote address at Career Day in 2015, inspiring a new generation of students.

Most recently, Susan returned to Cardinal Spellman to engage with students in a variety of science courses, including Physics Honors, Chemistry Honors, AP Environmental Science, AP Biology, and Biology & Society. During her visit, she shared her fascinating journey from Spellman to her current role at the zoo. Susan spoke passionately about her 30+ year career in the field, offering valuable advice on internship and career opportunities in science and conservation. Her visit left a lasting impact on our students, who were inspired by her remarkable achievements and her commitment to making a difference in the world.

We are incredibly proud to call Susan Cardillo one of our own, and we are grateful for her continued dedication to Cardinal Spellman High School.

Sue Cardillo '88 with Spellman students during a presentation to classes on her important work with animals and conservation at the Central Park Zoo.

Raising a Toast to Mr. Fred "Freddy" Opper

Faculty Member and Legendary Coach

We'll also raise a toast to beloved faculty member and legendary coach Mr. Fred "Freddy" Opper, as he celebrates his well-earned retirement from Cardinal Spellman High School. After 37 years at the helm of our Varsity Boys' Basketball program, Coach Opper retired from coaching but continued to serve students as a dedicated physical education teacher. His impact on generations of student-athletes cannot be overstated - from countless hours spent on the court to the life lessons instilled in each of his players, Coach Opper's legacy is one of passion, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to Spellman.

Welcoming Chris Manhertz '10

Spellman Alumnus and Tight End for the New York Giants

And we are thrilled to welcome home Chris Manhertz '10, who will be joining us not only as a proud Spellman alum but as a current member of the New York Giants! Born and raised in the Bronx and a standout basketball player at Spellman, Chris's remarkable journey from our gymnasium to the NFL - now entering his 11th season - is an inspiring story of perseverance, faith, and dedication.

Dinner Master of Ceremonies

Dean Meminger '88

Anchor and Reporter for Spectrum NY1 News

Born in Harlem and raised in the Bronx, NY1 Criminal Justice Reporter/Anchor Dean Meminger is as New York as they come. In addition to being a NY1 staff member since 1997, Dean has appeared as a newscaster in both the cinematic Marvel and DC universes, including Spider-man: No Way Home (2021), The Batman (2022), and HBO's The Penguin (2024).  Dean is a proud Spellmanite, who ran track as a student, and always returns to support his alma mater.