Today’s Streaks Alumni Profile features Phil Schwarz from the GHS class of 1991.
Few sports can match the discipline involved in cross country. As you look at Phil’s life after GHS, it shows a continued discipline and work ethic in the Marines, in education, in construction, and today running marathons.
Sports/Activities at GHS
During my high school career, I participated in soccer as a freshman and earned varsity letters in cross country for three years and track for four years, competing in the 1600m, 800m and 4 x 800m relay events.
Favorite Class/Teachers
I thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of mathematics, including Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus. Mr. Kessler and Mrs. Eiseman played a pivotal role in fostering my passion for mathematics.
Favorite Memories of GHS and Growing Up in Galesburg
I have fond memories of growing up in a small town, where everyone knew each other and felt safe everywhere. My fondest experiences were running in Lincoln Park's lush green spaces and training on the hilly terrain at W Lake Storey Road for cross country. Unbeknownst to me then, these experiences shaped me into the person I am today. Our cross country team was incredibly close-knit, and I've maintained lifelong friendships.
Education after GHS
During my senior year of high school, I enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves to finance my college education, serving from 1990 to 1998 as a combat engineer (MOS 1371), where my responsibilities included engineer reconnaissance, mine and IED clearance, explosive demolition and urban breaching, and construction of defense positions and infrastructure. Subsequently, I attended Bradley University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management.
Career
I relocated to Chicago in 1996 and have had the privilege of contributing to the construction of some of Chicago's iconic skyline. During my tenure at Bovis / Lend Lease, which spanned over 20 years, I had various roles. Initially employed as a superintendent, I progressed to become a general superintendent and vice president with the company.
My portfolio of projects included the Navy Pier Garage & Shakespeare Theater, Wyndham Hotel, 165 E Ontario (Courtyard by Marriott), 340 E Randolph, Winthrop Club, BP Bright Lights, 181 Clark, Admiral at the Lake, Northwestern Parking Garage, Clark & Grand Hotels, 28 N Franklin St, Loews Hotel & Apartments, 1000 S Clark, 625 W Division St, 1136 S Wabash, 1 S Halsted, 451 E Grand (One Bennett), 1035 W Van Buren St, 640 N Wells, and 9W Walton (The #9), among others.
Subsequently, I worked with the Walsh Group for 8 years as a project executive, overseeing the conversion of the Tribune Tower from an office building to high end condominiums and the construction of the new Salesforce Tower. Currently, I am working with Ujamaa Construction as a project executive on the 1.5B Bally's Casino downtown Chicago.
What are you / your family up to today?
My wife, Michelle Calcagno, and I reside in downtown Chicago, where we indulge in our passion for international travel, immersing ourselves in diverse cultures and historical landmarks. Our hobbies include visiting major league ballparks, attending concerts, skiing, and hiking, which serves as an excellent excuse for exploration.
I've also recently taken up marathon running, completing my first race approximately three years ago. Notably, I completed the prestigious Abbott six world majors in Boston, achieving a time of 3:28. The series comprised Boston, Chicago, New York, Berlin, London, and Tokyo, with Sydney recently added as the seventh major. I'm scheduled to participate in the Sydney marathon this fall. Further races are planned in Cape Town and Shanghai, contingent on candidate race approval.
Advice to Today’s Students/Athletes
What would your advice be to students/athletes today? I would advise students and athletes to emulate a sponge and acquire as much knowledge as possible, maintaining an open mind since its utility in life cannot be predetermined.
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| F.C.A. |
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