Alumni News & Notes
NOTE: If you have news or notes about alums, please email Brad Stone '03, CBC High School's Director of Alumni Relations, at [email protected].
Peter Lakey '84
Peter Lakey ’84 has created a new math tool that he is looking to share with the public.
“With this tool I am able to generate challenging math puzzles that I post on my website each day,” Lakey said. "This is free to the public. Anyone can access my site and try to solve the new puzzles I post there each day. I would like the CBC community to be aware of this because I’m certain that some of them will get enjoyment out of it. I have been posting new puzzles each for one year now. There are a handful of people throughout the world who solve them each day. They love the puzzles.”
Lakey’s math puzzles can be found at: https://www.cognitivecardgames.com/dailychallenge.
“I plan to start selling my X-Squared Card Deck to the local public this year,” Lakey said. “I will produce a First Edition of 2,500 units. My plan is to submit the order once I accumulate reservations for 1,000 units.”
People can request to reserve a copy of the game through the Products page of Lakey’s website: http://www.cognitivecardgames.com. He has also created a YouTube video that captures the essence of how the card deck may be used:
Q&A with Dan Lesinski '08 and Ryan Murphy '17
Dan Lesinski '08 and Ryan Murphy '17 lead the Young Professional's committee on the Alumni Association's Board of Directors.
What made you want to join CBC's Alumni Board?
Dan: "I was inspired to join the CBC Alumni Board because I believe in the power of community and mentorship. CBC provided me with invaluable experiences and connections that shaped who I am today, and I want to give back to the next generation of alumni. The opportunity to contribute to the success of the organization and be part of an ongoing legacy of CBC excellence excites me. It's about creating spaces for continued growth, both for the school and for alumni to remain connected and engaged."
Ryan: "I have always wanted to give back in ways outside of financial means. CBC had such an incredible impact on me at such an important time of my life and I am privileged to be able to give back and many different ways."
How did CBC help you become the man you are today?
Dan: "CBC helped me become the person I am today by teaching me not only academic skills but also the importance of character, responsibility, and leadership. The environment fostered a sense of discipline and a passion for giving back, which I carry with me in all aspects of my life. CBC was more than just an education; it was where I learned to navigate challenges, lead by example, and stay true to my values. The friendships I made and the mentors I encountered there continue to influence my journey."
Ryan: "CBC taught me the importance of independence and lifelong friendships. Growing up in a house with six sisters as the only boy had its challenges, but CBC gave me a true understanding of what it means to be a brother."
What do you hope to accomplish with the Young Professionals groups?
Dan: "One of my primary goals with the Young Professionals Group is to engage younger alumni early on in their careers, ensuring they stay connected to CBC and the alumni network. The longer we wait post-graduation to reach out, the more likely it is that CBC becomes just a distant memory. By building relationships with alumni soon after graduation, we can keep them engaged with the school and remind them of the value of being part of the CBC community. I hope to create opportunities for these young professionals to engage with one another and the school in meaningful ways, which will help keep CBC top of mind as they build their careers. Building that ongoing connection will help us maintain a strong, supportive alumni community for years to come."
Ryan: "One of our key initiatives is the GOLD program – Graduates of the Last Decade. The goal of this group is to create a professional network for younger alumni, similar to a BNI group. CBC has produced an incredible number of successful alumni, and we believe it's in everyone’s best interest to collaborate, network, and continue growing professionally while also supporting fellow alumni."
Q&A with Matthew Cibulka ’07
What did/do you do for your professional career, where did you work and for how long, what titles or awards did you earn, etc?
“As a Senior Producer, I manage projects from concept to completion—crafting schedules, overseeing budgets, assembling creative teams, and leading reviews with executives. With nearly a decade of experience collaborating directly and indirectly with Apple, I’ve contributed to iconic campaigns, including Apple TV screensavers, the redesigned iMac, and the MacBook Air. As a freelance Senior Producer, I partner with various companies and vendors to produce editorial, VFX, and CG films. While Apple remains a major focus, I’ve also led campaigns for InBev, Lexus, Scottrade, Enterprise, and Nike.”
Do you have any hobbies? What do you like to do in your spare time?
“I’m passionate about surf photography. The ocean brings me a sense of calm, and capturing surfers as they carve through waves, creating breathtaking splashes, is truly exhilarating. Check out my work on Instagram: @mattcibulka_photography."
How have the lessons you learned at CBC helped you in your professional life, family life, or other areas?
“Working with Mr. (Tom) Murray, I learned to trust my instincts, embrace creativity, and, most importantly, always deliver. Whether it was producing our daily newscast or overcoming creative blocks, he pushed me to put my work out there rather than overthinking it. His lesson was simple but powerful: You are enough. Keep creating. Keep delivering.
Another lasting lesson came from Mrs. H (Charlotte Hanselman), our librarian. She ran Karen House, a shelter for individuals escaping abusive relationships. Every Tuesday after school, we would drive down to cook dinner for the residents. I remember stressing over what to make or whether the food would turn out well, but to those we served, our presence mattered far more than the meal itself. That experience taught me an invaluable truth: Everyone wants to be seen and acknowledged. No matter who you meet, smile, recognize them, and treat them with kindness.”
Is there a teacher or figure from CBC who stood out in your time here and made an impact on you that lasts to this day?
“Mr. Edward Goetz and Thomas Murray, for believing in me, and showing me my potential. Joel Delpha and Charlotte Hanselman, for nurturing me into who I am. Dr. Karen Engdorf, "aka Dr. K", for empowering me through SIT (Student Information Technology).”