The Donovan Catholic Strength and Conditioning staff had the honor of being invited to speak at Kean University at the OCC campus by Professor Angelo Gingerelli on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Head Strength & Conditioning Coach Mark Deppen and Assistant Coach Edward Herman addressed Exercise Science students about navigating career paths after graduation and finding purpose in the field.

Coach Deppen shared his own untraditional journey into strength and conditioning—crediting the role models, mentors, and coaches who shaped him, including the late Louie Simmons of Westside Barbell in Columbus, Ohio. He also expressed deep gratitude for the principals, administrators, and athletic directors who supported his 26-year career at Donovan Catholic.

Coach Herman, a proud 2019 Donovan Catholic graduate, spoke about how his passion for the field was sparked in the Iron Griffins weight room as a member of the football and powerlifting teams. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Nutrition with a minor in Strength and Conditioning from the University of Delaware in 2023.

Together, their message to the undergraduates was clear and inspiring: follow your dreams, pursue your goals, and chase the kind of work that brings lasting fulfillment and happiness.

A wonderful day of Griffin pride and mentorship at its finest!