I'm not as lucky as the others who have posted memories of Tony, in that I could only claim him as an acquaintance. But, when good things come your way, you'll take what you can get. I first met Tony my freshman year at Maryland (his sophomore year), when we were both "lucky" enough to live on the 5th floor of Elkton Hall.

As it turned out, I didn't get to know many of the people who lived on that floor, but I did get to know Tony a little better as we both became active with the Catholic Student Center, albeit in different ways. Tony naturally helped with music ministry - specifically, as leader of music for noon mass on Sundays. I, on the other hand, helped to organize weekend retreats for undergrads. Well, although I knew that my singing was best confined to my shower, I decided to try my hand at music ministry anyway. Back then, and I believe the policy still exists, anyone could pretty much help in leading the singing at mass, provided they showed up to the rehearsals. I did my best with the noon music group for a few weeks, but eventually acknowledged that perhaps I would be more useful elsewhere.

The whole time I was with that group, Tony never said anything about my lack of ability. Instead, he allowed me to try a new way of worshipping that I hadn't had a chance to experience before. I'm grateful he gave me that chance.