Spring 2014
THE MAGAZINE OF SACRED HEART ACADEMY
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MAGAZINE Spring 2014 Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 President Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 Principal Managing Editor Beth Griffin Director of Public Relations Editor Allyson Wuerth Design EP Graphic Design ı Elizabeth Parker Major Photography Cronin Photography ı Cheryl Cronin ’84 Contributing Writers Debbie Camner Director of Mission Advancement Alora Caraglio ’08 Assistant to the President/Web Administrator Beth Griffin Director of Public Relations Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 Director of Alumnae Relations Contributing Photographers Elizabeth Christophy, Ph.D. Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 Elizabeth Parker Sydney Lauren Robinson Angie Stong ’14 Storytellers Photography
HEART magazine is published by Sacred Heart Academy for alumnae, parents, past parents, and friends of Sacred Heart Academy. Send address changes to the Office of Alumnae Relations, Sacred Heart Academy, 265 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514 or alumnae@ sacredhearthamden.org. Sacred Heart Academy admits students of any race, creed, national or ethnic origin, and handicapped status to all the rights, privileges and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate in these areas in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic or other school-administered programs.
The Foundation of
Inspiration
Issue
In this
Enjoy our spring edition of HEART as we
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From the President
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FINE ARTS IN BLOOM
celebrate students, faculty, and alumnae who have all shared the gift of God’s love. The Class of 2014 has recently graduated, and will soon embark on journeys that will take them far and wide. For them and for all our contributors, we
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ATHLETICS AT SACRED HEART: A CELEBRATION OF TEAMWORK
offer the words of poet Rainer Maria Rilke:
“I live my life in growing orbits which move
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DIMEO LIBRARY INFORMATION LITERACY CLASSES FOSTER STUDENT SUCCESS
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TEACHERS PUBLISH THEIR PASSION FOR EDUCATION
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Excelsior Lives Column
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The Class of 2014 Graduates!
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Around the Academy
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Foundation & Inspiration: Building the Sacred Heart Community
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Building on Excellence
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Mission Advancement
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Strong Bonds
out over this wondrous world. I am circling around God, around ancient towers and I have been circling for a thousand years. And I still don’t know if I am an eagle or a storm or a great song.”
Cover photo Captains (left to right) Elizabeth Rice ’14, Rebecca Golia ’14, and Sydney Sullivan ’14 Cheryl Cronin ’84 Photographer Inside Cover photo Abigail Roth ’16 finds inspiration on our beautiful campus. Cheryl Cronin ’84 Photographer Back Cover photo Valedictorian Madeline Ross ’14 (left), Salutatorian Olivia Kelly ’14 (center), and Number Three in the Class Caroline Kohnert ’14 (right) Storytellers Photography
From the President “Those who have opened their hearts to God’s Love cannot keep this gift to themselves.”
— Light of Faith Encyclical, Luman Fidei
Dear Friends, As I write this letter amidst the dawning of a new season, I am so excited for the newness that surrounds us. The regenerative powers of spring find me even more certain of the powerful eloquence of Pope Francis’ first encyclical, Lumen Fidei, The Light of Faith, which we chose as our inspiration for this school year. It was only with the emergence of the daffodils in our courtyard that I considered the winter behind us, facilitating the wonder before us—the flowers with their “opened hearts” accepting God’s gift of light so effortlessly. And just as the earth blooms with signs like the small yellow daffodil, so too does our building, inspired by the Charism of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, bloom with signs of Christ each day. We worked tirelessly throughout the year and Building on Excellence is nearly complete; now we are happy to share new plans with our greater school community. We have assigned task forces on both arts and athletics in the hope that we can nurture these programs and the students who depend on them. In a time when other schools have decided to reduce their arts and athletics programs, we at Sacred Heart Academy realize their absolute necessity in cultivating our students to become accomplished young women. Finally, in keeping with our motto, Excelsior, we continue to keep alive the Academy’s rich tradition as the premier Catholic school in the greater New Haven area. We have engaged David Thompson Architects to facilitate the creation of a master plan for our campus. Throughout the winter, meetings were held with administrators, faculty, students, and parents to communicate the needs of the school community. This process will ensure that institutional change and expansion will be thoughtfully and artfully managed for the years ahead. Follow our progress in the next issue of HEART magazine. The success of any educational institution is dependent upon the loyalty and support of its alumnae, current student families, and friends. Thank you for being a part of our special family. You are an integral part of our tradition, and you continue to inspire us each day. Gratefully in the Heart of Christ,
Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 President
Sacred Heart Academy
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Fine Arts in Bloom You are the one who makes me feel home Who picks me up when I’m alone You are the one whose heart I’m inside The soul I take pride in giving me life “You & I, Always” - Christa Gniadek ’08
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f you ask accomplished singer/songwriter Christa Gniadek ’08 about her first live performance, she will fondly recall her senior year at Sacred Heart Academy. With Christa, you will go back to the last mother/daughter liturgy breakfast she attended, and she will tell you about her song. Not only will you be transported into that world—that sacred bond between mother and daughter—but you will be reminded of the love and kindness that, sometimes, changes everything. Shares Christa, “It was a really beautiful sequence of events. Sr. Mariette Moan was my religion teacher at the time, and we would talk about music and about how I had taught myself guitar. She invited me to play with a liturgy band she had put together. Suddenly, I had this idea that I could also write a song about mothers and play it at the liturgy, and I wrote it that day. I emailed Sr. Mariette and asked her if it would be okay for me to play it, and she said yes! I’ll never forget that.” After graduating, Christa began her freshman year at Boston University, but Sr. Mariette’s encouragement resonated long after the liturgy’s end. Indeed, in 2010, Christa decided to transfer to Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music where she majored in songwriting. Adds Christa, “I also started my own publishing company, Maiden Brain Music, and released a few self-produced albums. After graduating from Berklee, I was ready to spend all my time and energy on a new record with a producer, and Leaving Boston was released on February 13, 2014.” As Christa’s career as a professional singer/songwriter takes off, Elizabeth Smith ’16 is just beginning to discover the thrill of writing and performing her own work in front of an audience. Lizzie’s original song, “Joseph’s Carol,” was performed by students at our annual Christmas concert. She explains, “Mr. Härtel inspired me to write a song for the choir. I was a little anxious about how my song would be received, but I wanted feedback on some of the tunes floating around in my head. It was a nice transition from writing songs for myself to getting my music out there.” In addition to the encouraging words of Christopher Härtel, music teacher, Lizzie also lauds our supportive student body: “Even though a lot of us have dreams that seem unattainable, we are still encouraged by others to give it our all. I have found that Sacred Heart students are very supportive of
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their artistic classmates; they often attend the choir/orchestra concerts and the fall musical performances, cheer everyone on at the coffeehouse, and compliment the student artwork that hangs throughout the school.” Christa and Lizzie are just two of many student artists inspired and encouraged at the Academy. Fine Arts Department Chair Barbara Mangini, Musical Director Mary Lee Delaney, Music Teacher Christopher Härtel, and Art Teacher Teresa DelVecchio collaborate with students to ensure that creative souls thrive. In April, Mary Lee and Teresa beamed with pride as seniors Rachel Porzio and Angie Stong attended the Connecticut High School Fine Arts Awards Ceremony hosted by the Connecticut Association of Schools. Rachel received an award for four years of excellence in performing arts, while Angie received an award for excellence in visual arts. Shares Mary Lee, “I was thrilled that these students represented our school.” Teresa echoed her
enthusiasm: “Parents aren’t always supportive when their kids choose to earn advanced degrees in the visual or performing arts. It’s inspiring to see such supportive families at SHA.” Communication and collaboration among students, parents, and teachers are essential components of our fine arts curriculum. After taking a digital photography class with Media Specialist Maureen Hayes, Angie Stong, who owns and operates Angie Stong Photography, was inspired to document the world around her. She shares, “I’m really excited about turning my passion into a career and I’m lucky to have gotten a jump start before college.” In 2012 and 2014, she received the Excellence in Photography Award and in 2013 the Excellence in Paint Crew Award, and this year served as the chief set designer for the musical production of Annie. In both 2012 and 2013, she was recognized with an official citation from the State of Connecticut General Assembly for
Christa Gniadek ’08 is now a successful singer and songwriter.
Elizabeth Smith ’16, budding songwriter.
Sacred Heart Academy
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Seniors Recognized by CAS for Excellence in Arts
“High school was one of my first exposures to beautiful and interesting sacred music...I realized that sacred music is a particularly special way that humanity brings its best gifts to create something beautiful in the world.” - Mary Beth DiGenova ’06
Talent and Achievement in the Visual Arts and the mayor’s citation from the Town of Hamden for Excellence in Visual Arts. In addition to these honors, Angie serves as a contributing photographer for the Clelian, our yearbook, and HEART magazine. Indeed, her photography will be missed in future pages of HEART.
The Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) annually honors two outstanding seniors from each member school who excel in the performing and visual arts while possessing the qualities of scholarship and leadership. Congratulations to Rachel Porzio (far right) and Angela Stong (far left) who were selected for excellence in performing arts and visual arts, respectively. Above, Rachel and Angie with teachers Teresa DelVecchio (left) and MaryLee Delaney (right) at the Outstanding Arts Awards Banquet.
If there is a common thread that stitches these vignettes together, it lies bright in the tapestry of inspiration and determination, the strong bonds that define Sacred Heart Academy. Such was the case for Cleo Graham ’72 who earned a nursing degree from Adelphi University. After years of working as a RN, Cleo suffered a debilitating back injury and began writing inspirational poetry. Shares Cleo, “During my recovery time I had a spiritual awakening that I wrote about in my book, From Mess to Message: Understanding the Hidden Healing Messages behind Pain and Suffering.” She recalls the spiritual guidance of the Sisters at the Academy and how their devotion to God inspired her: “All of my teachers were influential because the school’s climate encouraged honor, integrity, diligence, and resilience. Sacred Heart Academy was fertile ground for my spiritual formation as well as my academic growth. I was nurtured in a Christ-centered home. SHA strengthened my foundational belief in God and broadened my perspective on how my beliefs are expressed.” In fact, in the fall of 2012, Cleo graduated from Andover Newton Theological School in Newton, Massachusetts, earning a Master of Divinity degree and a North American Recognition Award in Christian Education, eventually becoming the first African American ordained in the Rhode Island Conference of the United Church of Christ. Currently, she serves as a pastor and an affiliated Protestant chaplain at Roger Williams University. Another alumna, Mary Beth DiGenova ’06, found herself drawn to the fine arts despite the plan she originally had for her future. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from MIT, she accepted a position with Noack Organ Company in Georgetown, Massachusetts, a company that designs and builds pipe organs. Mary Beth elaborates, “We are a small company, and one of the aspects which I enjoy is the lack of strict departments; we are all involved with more than one facet of building the instruments.” The instruments she builds range from small house
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instruments to large cathedral ones, but for Mary Beth each job presents its own unique challenge to create the perfect sound: “Most of my time is spent voicing pipes (making each rank of pipes speak properly and with a consistent timbre) and making action parts (creating the mechanical connections between a key or pedal which the organist depresses and the pallet which allows pressurized air to feed a particular pipe, causing it to sound.)” “Christopher Clowdus, Sacred Heart’s music teacher during my time there, piqued my interest in pipe organs and organ building by encouraging me to take organ lessons, although I didn’t actually begin them until after graduation. High school was one of my first exposures to beautiful and interesting sacred music. Sometime between listening for familiar musical themes in communion improvisations and singing Randall Thompson’s “Alleluia,” I realized that sacred music is a particularly special way that humanity brings its best gifts to create something beautiful in the world. Helping to facilitate that process at many different houses of worship is one of the reasons I felt drawn to organ building.”
Angie Stong ’14 is inspired by her friends and family.
“SHA strengthened my foundational belief in God and broadened my perspective on how my beliefs are expressed.” - Cleo Graham ’72
Whether she is inspired by the sacred music of her high school days, the image or lyrics that she’s managed to capture, or the bright lights of a stage, the Sacred Heart Academy student flourishes within the emboldening climate of our fine arts program. Our fine arts task force will review the program already in place, and determine where new seeds of inspiration may be sown. Stay tuned for more in our fall 2014 edition of HEART magazine. Pastor and Protestant chaplain at Roger Williams University Cleo Graham ’72. Sacred Heart Academy
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“As long as the girls play competitively and enjoy themselves— that’s what’s most important.” - George Bedocs
Athletics at Sacred Heart: A Celebration of Teamwork “Whether you win or lose, you come off the court to encouraging and supportive teammates...Our teamwork defines us.”
- Megan Dwyer ’14
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ith 22 teams competing in 13 varsity and junior varsity sports, Sacred Heart understands the role physical fitness plays in student success. Through sports, students learn the value of teamwork and leadership, important skills they will use throughout their lives. Student athletes and coaches alike work hard to ensure that our athletic program radiates excellence, as we face rigorous competition from other high schools in the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC). One of the strongest leagues in the state, the SCC encourages cooperative and responsible sportsmanship. Athletic Director George Bedocs hopes that one day the Academy will have the athletic center of his dreams. Until then he is happy to oversee the immediate needs of the program. Says George, “Soon we are going to resurface the track, lacrosse, and soccer fields and create storage in order to protect our expensive equipment. We are also installing fencing around our softball field and increasing coverage time of athletic trainers.” Adds Sara Fagan ’15, who runs track, “I’d love to have a professional trainer in case of an injury on the track. Running is hard work, and it’s important to keep that in mind, even when you are enjoying a good run with your teammates.” Sabrina Schiano ’14, captain of the basketball team, certainly enjoys spending time with her team even while being competitive on the basketball court: “The best part about playing is having your team become your second family. We spend more time together during the five months of basketball than we do at home; you can’t help but form those strong bonds integral to our education here at the Academy.”
Adds Megan Dwyer ’14, tennis captain “Whether you win or lose, you come off the court to encouraging and supportive teammates. The positive energy from my team makes it almost impossible to have a bad practice or match. Our teamwork defines us.” Eventually teamwork extends beyond the field and cultivates “SHA girls” into the strong women they will become. Meg Tarrant ’05, director of basketball operations at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey, provides a stellar example of the important role athletics has in “educating” students long after graduation. After seeing Sr. Mariette Moan’s, ASCJ, ’77 Facebook post about the SHA Haiti Project, featured in our fall issue of HEART, Meg decided her athletes should become involved: “My boyfriend is of Haitian descent and he was visiting family in Haiti when the earthquake hit. His stories give me nightmares and I have always researched ways to help; it was like this opportunity through my alma mater was sent to me! I contacted Sr. Mariette, who told me about the sneaker drive. My athletes recognize the need to reach out and help others. I am so proud that my alma mater connected my athletes, myself, and Haiti.” With more than 65% of students participating in sports, our athletic director and his coaches beam with pride over the number of students who excel at both sports and academics: “We are very proud of the students who made the Southern Connecticut Conference AllAcademic Team, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while playing at the varsity level. The sports teams are doing very well. We have qualified in CIAC tournaments in every sport. As long as the girls play competitively and enjoy themselves— that’s what’s most important.”
Athletic Director George Bedocs notes both athletic and academic brilliance of his players. Sacred Heart Academy 11
Off the Field...Our Athletes Excel!
SACRED HEART ATHLETICS
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Sydney Sullivan Named 2013-2014 Scholar-Athlete Senior Sydney Sullivan has been named this year’s Scholar-Athlete. Recognized for her cumulative grade point average, varsity sport participation, and community service; in addition to her self-discipline and leadership, she was honored at the Annual Connecticut High School Scholar Athlete Awards Dinner in May at the Aqua Turf Club.
STUDENTS
65%
65% PARTICIPATE
President of National Honor Society, and a member of Spanish Honor Society and National Math Honor Society—Mu Alpha Theta, Sydney has earned high honors for all four years. A stand-out soccer player, Sydney served as captain her senior year, in addition to being captain of the track team.
65% 65%65% 65%65% 65%
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“Sydney Sullivan is an exceptional student and an exceptional athlete. As captain of our soccer team, she inspired her team by setting an example for others to follow. She demonstrated a tremendous work ethic on and off the field, and was named to the All-Academic Team in soccer, as well as in indoor and outdoor track. A true leader in every sense of the word,” offered George Bedocs, athletic director and varsity soccer head coach.
Varsity & Junior Varsity Sacred Heart competes in the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC), considered to be among the most competitive conferences in the state.
Shared Director of Guidance Kerry Alexander, “This is a young woman whom other students emulate and admire for her academic success, athletic ability, and genuine personality. Her humility is something I have come to admire…she was truly surprised to be the recipient of the Holy Cross College Book Award at Honors Convocation last spring.” Head Coach of Track and Field Pat Redding added, “Sydney combines numerous qualities that make her an outstanding athlete, respected captain, and brilliant student. She works extremely hard and has an 65% understanding of what it takes to succeed. She well deserves this honor.”
STATE CHAMPS 92 • 93 2011
SCHOLAR-ATHLETES ALL-AMERICANS ALL-STATE PLAYERS LEAGUE CHAMPS SCC CONFERENCE CHAMPS SCC DIVISION CHAMPS
Partnership with WTNH 8 Gives Kids the Chance to Play Sacred Heart Academy teamed up with News8/SportzEdge.com and more than a dozen area high schools to help kids in Connecticut get in the game! Students collected new and gently used sports equipment, shoes, and clothing to support the first annual Sports Equipment Drive for Connecticut children in need.
Seniors Demery Ormrod and Madeline Ross — SCC Scholar Leaders
The Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) recently hosted its 20th Scholar Leader Banquet. Forty-four scholar leaders, two from each member school, were recognized for their outstanding efforts in the classroom, in their school, on the field, and in their local communities. Demery Ormrod ’14 (left) and Madeline Ross ’14 (right) were selected to represent the Academy. A four-year member of the varsity volleyball team, Demery balances academics and athletics, student leadership, and hours of service to her community. Active in Campus Ministry, Peer Connection, Student Council, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, National Math Honor Society—Mu Alpha Theta, and World Language National Honor Society, Demery has performed countless hours of service at soup kitchens, AIDS clinics, and nursing homes. Maddie has distinguished herself as an accomplished scholar who also displays leadership strength through her involvement with Student Council. A summer intern at the Molecular Cardiology Lab at the University of Connecticut Health Center, Madeline is an active member of National Honor Society, National Math Honor Society—Mu Alpha Theta, Science National Honor Society, and the Math League. She was the recipient of the Yale University Book Award and the Princeton University Book Award during her junior year. In addition to her scholarly activities, Maddie is a varsity member of the cross country and lacrosse teams.
Senior Molly Flowers Signs National Letter of Intent
Molly Flowers ’14 pictured here with Sr. Sheila, Sr. Maureen, her coaches, and parents.
Molly Flowers ’14 has signed a National Letter of Intent to play Division I softball for the University of Maine at Orono. At the signing, which was held in DiMeo Library, Molly’s family, coaches, and teammates proudly supported her. A star pitcher and four-year member of the softball team, Molly pitched in all five tournament games during her freshman year when the team won the state title. Also a tremendous hitter, Molly is “quiet and humble, strictly a team player, and doesn’t have a clue how outstanding a player she truly is,” offered Head Coach Ray Ramelli. In May, Molly pitched a perfect game in a 15 – 0 win over Guilford and broke the Sacred Heart record for most strikeouts in a single season. The former record was held by Betsy Tranquilli ’98. In the 1997 season, Betsy had 218 strikeouts with 29 walks in 24 games.
Senior Signs for Soccer Angela Ciaramella ’14 has signed to play soccer at Division II Post University. Angela’s parents, coaches, and teammates were present to cheer her on at the signing.
Angela Ciaramella (center) pictured with (top row from left) Sr. Maureen, George Bedocs, Sr. Sheila, and (bottom row) her parents.
A four-year varsity member of the soccer team, with 38 career goals and a two time All-Quinnipiac selection, Angela was named All-Conference and All-Area in her senior season. She was a Senior Bowl Selection and was named SCC Student-Athlete of the Month. Head Soccer Coach and Athletic Director George Bedocs says: “She is a talented goal scorer and scored multiple goals in many games. She played with a high level of intensity during each match and was a positive influence on her teammates on and off the field. I am confident that Angela will be successful at the next level.”
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DiMeo Library Information Literacy Classes Foster Student Success
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eaping the benefits of advancements in technology, highly skilled media specialists, and generous collections, the library is, indeed, a fine example of our motto, Excelsior. In fact, President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 recently allocated funds raised by students during our fall ad campaign to outfit the library with Mac computers and large screen televisions for student presentations and information literacy classes.
tidy up shelves, and close down media centers. Shares Maureen, “Karen and I are a team. We work hard to help the girls with their research.”
Both Maureen and Karen engage students in information literacy classes in the Judge Ellen Bree Burns Study Center on the library’s second level. Renovated in 2009 with a generous donation from Judge Burns, the center accommodates an entire class comfortably, providing plenty of table space for research materials. During the Media Specialist/Librarian Maureen Hayes information literacy classes, students learn to and Media Specialist/Assistant Librarian differentiate among sources, practice using Karen Reidy ’74 can be found in the DiMeo Library five days a week from early morning to online databases, and tour collections. Adds mid-afternoon when they organize collections, Maureen, “When not being used for classes, this space is a popular study spot.”
Students would agree that Maureen and Karen are invaluable resources for all courses of study. Shares Abbey Lawlor ’15, “Mrs. Reidy and Ms. Hayes are treasures to have in the library! They are eager to provide direction to students on papers and assignments by sharing their abounding knowledge of resources. They love offering great reading suggestions and are always willing to assist in locating resources.” Maureen elaborates, “Organizing research is important so I emphasize preparation before students begin their research. I also offer tips on how to search effectively and analyze the search results. Research projects in their fine
“Organizing research is important so I emphasize preparation before students begin their research. I also offer tips on how to search effectively and analyze the search results.” - Maureen Hayes
Maureen Hayes challenges students to improve their research skills.
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arts classes bring freshmen to the library to learn about and distinguish between the traditional and electronic resources in those areas of study. Sophomore year research papers bring English and history classes to the library for an in depth look at identifying literary criticism sources and narrowing historical research subjects into manageable paper subjects.” For upperclassmen, the library’s resources, in addition to Maureen’s and Karen’s instruction, become more sophisticated. Offers Maureen, “At this point, students are encouraged to use JSTOR for much of their research. Writing seminar classes come in for less
traditional sources from recent periodicals that combine interesting contemporary ideas with a research and writing component. Upperclassmen begin to understand the importance of search terms and the need to be creative with research strategies.” In addition to providing students with the information and support they need, our librarians also collaborate with faculty on classroom projects, sometimes visiting classrooms to demonstrate specific areas of research. Librarians and faculty members emphasize credible sourcing and encourage students to use a combination of print and electronic resources. Through the Connecticut
Digital Library Program (iConn), the library has access to many Gale Cengage Learning databases and the capability of searching more than 18 databases including Academic OneFile, as well as the iConn Custom Newspaper databases. In addition to these resources, the library subscribes to scientific magazines and journals, literary criticism journals, and theological and art databases. The Academy makes certain our students and faculty have the latest resources at their disposal. As our students head off to college, they are equipped with the tools necessary for success in today’s world.
Karen Reidy ’74 elucidates the many uses of Facts on File.
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Kathy Gniadek (left) and Sibani Sengupta (right) share a passion for learning.
Teachers Publish their Passion for Education Kathy Gniadek Publishes Final Version of her Breakthrough E-book, Fab Five for Trigonometry
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ince Math Department Chair Kathy Gniadek is not a fan of rote memorization, when she began teaching trigonometry 19 years ago she developed a method that allowed her students to learn the material in a new way. After several conversations with her students and her family, Kathy decided to publish her “Fab Five” method.
The Fab Five for Trigonometry 20 level series, titles, and descriptions can be found on the website at www.fab5fortrig.com. The first three levels encapsulate Kathy’s method and are referenced in the subsequent
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17 levels. Students have found that once they master the “Fab Five” method they never forget it. Kathy shares, “My favorite story was told by an alumna who answered a trig question so quickly in her college class that she astounded her professor and her classmates. When asked how she knew the answer so quickly, she replied, ‘Fab Five!’ Well, at that time there was no publication of Fab Five for Trigonometry to back up her claim. So now, current students and former students have a legitimate Amazon product, website, and e-book to share how they mastered trigonometry.” Despite the success of Fab Five for Trigonometry, Kathy still believes the best of Sacred Heart Academy is its faith-based community. She elaborates, “It is wonderful to publish a math document that helps so many students, but the best part of SHA is the spiritual dimension of the mission and the challenge of trying to live it to the fullest every day. It is a gift to be able to share our faith every day with both students and colleagues and to know collectively that we are all pilgrims on a journey.”
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Please enjoy reading about exceptional alumnae in this column dedicated to Sacred Heart Academy’s Excelsior Women. Nominate your Excelsior Woman by emailing alumnae@sacredhearthamden.org.
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Sibani Sengupta, Ph.D. Publishes in American Biology Teacher
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cience Department Chair Dr. Sibani Sengupta’s article, “Bringing RNA Interference (RNAi) into the High School Classroom,” was selected for publication in the “How to Do It” section of American Biology Teacher, November/December 2013 issue. Her article concentrates on RNA interference, a relatively new discovery in the field of mechanisms that serve to regulate gene expression (aka protein production) and presents a teaching module that can help high school students experience this unique regulatory mechanism. This module was implemented and successfully tested by members of the Class of 2013 in their freshman honors biology class. Dr. Sengupta thanks these students in her piece. Dr. Sengupta left a career as a research scientist to teach high school and has been an extremely dedicated educator ever since. Indeed, Sibani was the 2010 recipient of the Outstanding Biology Teacher Award of Connecticut and was also selected by The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain as the recipient of the Alma Exley Scholarship Award which recognizes Connecticut teachers of color who show strong classroom teaching dedication. Shares Dr. Sengupta, “Since attending conferences during the school year can at times be difficult for educators, publishing articles can be an excellent way to share information.”
aureen Danehy Cox ’72, a partner at Connecticut’s Carmody Law Firm, defends product liability cases in both state and federal courts throughout the United States. She was one of three Connecticut female attorneys included in the inaugural issue of Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation and was elected as the first female president of the Connecticut Defense Lawyer’s Association. In 2013, Maureen was the recipient of the Ladder Award, presented by Connecticut Bar Association’s Women in Law Committee of the Young Lawyers Section honoring a female attorney who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, inspiring other women. Two years ago, Maureen decided to make a change to her annual Christmas open house. She elaborates, “During a lunch date with Sr. Sheila O’Neill, we discussed Sacred Heart’s commitment to diversity and the efforts the school was making to bring students from St. Martin de Porres to SHA. When my husband and I planned our open house, we decided to ask those guests who were inclined to bring a hostess gift or a bottle of wine to instead consider making a donation to support scholarships for St. Martin de Porres students.” Thanks in part to Maureen and her guests, Sr. Sheila’s dream for Sacred Heart Academy is closer to being realized. Shares Maureen, “I think many of our guests appreciated the opportunity to donate to this good cause.” In fact, her last two parties raised $2,200 for our Endowment Fund which directly benefits graduates of St. Martin de Porres like Xena Greene ’14, the first from that school to graduate from Sacred Heart Academy. Voices Xena, “I feel honored to be a beacon of hope to other girls who wish to attend Sacred Heart. I feel so proud to be a graduate of both St. Martin de Porres and Sacred Heart. I truly appreciated the opportunity to attend Sacred Heart Academy, which wouldn’t have been possible without the help of St. Martin de Porres Academy scholarships.” Sacred Heart Academy has a long tradition of empowering students and fostering their growth into the strong women of tomorrow. Maureen Danehy Cox, one of seven sisters, all part of our vast network of alumnae, would agree: “I am a fan of single-sex high schools, particularly for girls. They provide girls with leadership opportunities that allow them to grow into strong women. I appreciated Sacred Heart’s very strong English and humanities programs, and am happy to see the extraordinary progress that SHA has made in the sciences which has led to the school’s being recognized as a leader in those programs.” We thank Maureen Danehy Cox ’72, this issue’s Excelsior Woman!
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The Class of 2014 Graduates!
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Class of 2014 Top Five Seniors Lead their Class into the Future 100%
will further their education
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Seniors (from left) Madeline Ross, Olivia Kelly, Caroline Kohnert, Courtney Clark, and Sydney Sullivan.
Valedictorian Madeline Ross of Shelton is the recipient of many honors and awards, including recognition in the National Merit Competition, both the Yale College and Princeton University Book Awards, and the University of Rochester Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award. In addition, Maddie was elected by her classmates to serve as class president sophomore, junior, and senior year. On both the varsity lacrosse and cross country teams, Maddie was selected by the Southern Connecticut Conference as a Scholar Leader. Deeply involved in her church and volunteerism, she still makes time for reading and skiing. This fall, Maddie will attend Boston University as a Trustee Scholar. Salutatorian Olivia Kelly, a native of Shelton, is a National Merit Commended Student and the recipient of the University of Rochester Xerox Innovator Award and several science awards and honors. Extremely active in her faith, she was a peer ministry leader on the Kairos retreat. An impressive dancer, Olivia has choreographed for the Academy and is the Head-Co-Editor-in-Chief of Alethea, the school newspaper. Olivia will attend Brown University in the fall.
Number three in her class, Caroline Kohnert of Fairfield, has been named a National Merit Scholar Finalist and is the recipient of the Harvard Book Award. Fluent in French, Caroline is also an accomplished musician. Caroline is a member of several honor societies, key club, and knitting club. In college, she plans to study engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology. Courtney Clark of Seymour is number four in her class, and delivered the address at Honors Convocation. Courtney is an active member of National French, Science, and Math Honor Societies. In addition to her participation with our school musicals, Courtney enjoys dancing. She is very excited to attend St. John’s University in the fall. Rounding out the top five is Sydney Sullivan of Branford. Serving as captain of the varsity soccer team, and varsity track teams, Sydney still manages to make time for her role as president of National Honor Society. When she isn’t busy with school or sports, Sydney can be found volunteering and has participated in many mission trips. She will attend Boston College in the fall.
awarded in merit, service, and leadership scholarships and grants
61%
graduated with Honors
34%
graduated as 4.0 Scholars
100%
embraced the spirit of service through
15,000
hours of outreach
Sacred Heart Academy 19
Oh, the Places You’ll Go!
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go...”
The Class of 2014 has been accepted to the following four year colleges and universities: Albertus Magnus College Allegheny College American University Amherst College Assumption College Barry University Bay Path College Becker College Belmont University Bentley University Boston College Boston University Brown University Butler University Caldwell College Case Western Reserve University Central Connecticut State University Champlain College Clark University Coastal Carolina University Colby College Colby-Sawyer College College of Mount Saint Vincent College of the Holy Cross Columbus State University Connecticut College Cornell University Curry College Davidson College Delaware Valley College Dickinson College Drexel University Duquesne University Eastern Connecticut State University Eastern Nazarene College Emerson College Emmanuel College Endicott College Fairfield University Florida Atlantic University Florida Gulf Coast University Florida International University Florida Southern College Fordham University Franklin Pierce University Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Technology Gettysburg College Gordon College Goucher College High Point University Hofstra University Hood College Iona College James Madison University Johnson & Wales University Keene State College King’s College La Salle University Lafayette College Lasell College Lebanon Valley College
“...Congratulations! 20
Lehigh University Lesley University Louisiana State University Loyola University Maryland Loyola University New Orleans Manhattan College Manhattanville College Marist College Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences McDaniel College Merrimack College Messiah College Michigan State University Monmouth University Montclair State University Mount Saint Mary College Mount Saint Mary’s University New York Institute of Technology New York University Northeast Ohio Medical University Northeastern University Norwich University Pace University Palm Beach Atlantic University Pennsylvania State University Philadelphia University Post University Providence College Purdue University Queen’s University Quinnipiac University Randolph-Macon College Regis College Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Richmond The American International College in London Rochester Institute of Technology Roger Williams University Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Sacred Heart University Saint Anselm College Saint Joseph’s University Saint Michael’s College Saint Peter’s University Saint Vincent College Salve Regina University Savannah College of Art and Design Seton Hall University Siena College Skidmore College Smith College Southern Connecticut State University Springfield College St. John’s University St. Joseph’s College St. Lawrence University St. Thomas University State University of New York at New Paltz Stonehill College
Stony Brook University Suffolk University Sweet Briar College Syracuse University Temple University Texas A&M University The Catholic University of America The College of New Jersey The College of Saint Rose The Corcoran College of Art and Design The George Washington University The University of Arizona The University of Findlay The University of Georgia The University of Scranton The University of Tampa The University of Texas The University of the Arts Towson University Union College University at Albany University at Buffalo University of British Columbia University of Colorado at Boulder University of Connecticut University of Delaware University of Edinburgh University of Glasgow University of Hartford University of Kentucky University of Maine University of Maryland, College Park University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Miami University of New England University of New Hampshire University of New Haven University of Notre Dame University of Pittsburgh University of Rhode Island University of Richmond University of Rochester University of Saint Joseph University of San Francisco University of St. Andrews University of Toronto University of Vermont Valparaiso University Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Wagner College Wells College Western Connecticut State University Western New England University Westfield State University Wheaton College Worcester Polytechnic Institute Xavier University Yale University York College of Pennsylvania
Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!” -- Dr. Dr. Suess, Suess, Oh, Oh, The The Places Places You’ll You’ll Go! Go!
AROUND THE ACADEMY
Students Pledge to “Power Down” when Driving
Peer Connectors Collaborate to Combat Cyberbullying
Peer Connectors (from left) seniors Victoria Asmus, Jessica Venables, and Carmina Zablan-Palustre share cyberbullying posters.
In February, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) hosted the Save a Life Tour. Sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, Save a Life is part of the state’s initiative to teach young drivers the importance of making good decisions while at the wheel. Students viewed a series of short videos about the dangers of phone usage while driving and were given the chance to operate simulators. Cauley Comerford ’16 shared, “The simulator showed me how difficult and dangerous it is to operate a phone while driving. I’m getting my permit soon and I definitely will not text while I’m driving.” SADD officers (left to right) Lauren Davis ’15, Rachel Korolyshun ’14, and Courtney Clark ’14 pictured with the “I pledge not to text and drive” banner signed by Sacred Heart students and faculty.
“If you have knowledge, let others light their candle in it.” These wise words once said by American journalist Margaret Fuller recapitulate the mantra of Peer Connection. Peer Connection hosted a cyberbullying workshop to educate its members about internet safety. Presented by the Anti-Defamation League, the workshop encouraged members to become more aware of cyberbullying and to implement effective methods to combat it. In response, Peer Connection shared their knowledge with the Sacred Heart community through presentations and visual media such as posters to increase student awareness. In addition, Peer Connectors collaborated to write a special presentation and performance for freshmen. We applaud Peer Connection’s commitment to the Sacred Heart community!
Director or Guidance Named to Counselor Advisory Board Director of Guidance Kerry Alexander has been invited to serve a three-year term on the inaugural Sacred Heart University Counselor Advisory Board. Kerry was recognized as a “counselor who provides immeasurable value to the college counseling profession.” According to the university, this board will be comprised of a diverse group of high school counselors who serve as a sounding board for new ideas for the university. Members will learn about student services, academic programs, financial aid, and scholarships, and provide the university with critical feedback so that SHU may better serve students. Kerry looks forward to participating in discussions on the college admissions process, current educational trends, student recruitment and retention, and networking with other members of the counseling profession to bring best practices in college admissions back to the Academy.
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AROUND THE ACADEMY
Honors Biotechnology Classes Present to Educational and Medical Communities The Honors Biotechnology Research Project classes were invited to Boston to present their research to both the educational and medical communities. In April, the students presented two scientific posters to high school and college science faculty at the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) conference at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center on the Boston Seaport. They shared their gene sequencing research data and defended their projects to the educational community.
“Hour of Code” at Sacred Heart is One of Connecticut’s Largest To celebrate Computer Education Week and to educate and excite students about computer science, Sacred Heart hosted one of the top ten largest all-school coding events in Connecticut. During this event, students and faculty collaborated to increase excitement and expose everyone to the logic of coding. “We are the only all-girls school in Connecticut that hosted an all-school ‘Hour of Code’ event,” offered event coordinator, David Alexandro. Dave, a computer programmer before becoming a computer science teacher at SHA, developed our Business and Computer Technology curriculum.
The students will again present to the scientific community in June, when they travel to Harvard Medical School to defend their research at the Systems Biology and Human Disease conference. “By that time student projects will be fully completed, analyzed, and the results submitted to Genbank as additions to the 24 DNA sequences already published by Sacred Heart Academy students in that U.S. Government database,” according to biotechnology educator Sr. Mary Jane Paolella, ASCJ, ’65. Over the years the Science Department, particularly the cutting-edge biotechnology program, has received significant attention from both national and local news media as a testament to the importance of the work being done here. A team of students works with Kathy Gniadek during “Hour of Code.”
Sophomores Selected to Attend Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar Each year, one sophomore is chosen by the Social Studies Department to represent Sacred Heart at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) Seminar, and one sophomore is chosen as alternate. Selection is based on essays on leadership. The Social Studies Department has announced this year’s selection is Mitali Bandyopadhyay ’16, (right) with Jennifer Piciw ’16 (left) serving as alternate. Founded in 1958, HOBY’s mission is to inspire and develop our global community of youth to a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation. HOBY seminars are conducted annually throughout the United States, serving local high school students. These seminars allow select students to participate in unique leadership training, service-learning, and motivation-building experiences. The HOBY Seminar is the only program exclusively designed for high school sophomores and Mitali and Jenny will represent Sacred Heart Academy at the conference. 22
Students Recognized by National Center for Women in IT Erinn Halasinski ’15 and Kathleen Quinn ’16 each received the Aspirations in Computing Award from the National Center for Women in Informational Technology (NCWIT). This award honors young women at the high school level for their computer and IT aptitude, leadership ability, academic history, and plans for postsecondary education. Our students are two of only ten young women in Connecticut to claim this distinction and will be afforded future opportunities for scholarships, internships, and research experiences provided by NCWIT member organizations.
Students Excel at State’s Largest Science & Engineering Competition Once again, our young women did exceedingly well at the Connecticut Science & Engineering Fair. CSEF, a yearly, statewide science and engineering fair, provides a forum for middle and high school students to showcase their scientific prowess. Held at Quinnipiac University, the event helps young people become interested in careers in science and engineering while developing skills essential to critical thinking. More than 12,000 students representing 127 schools competed for 700 coveted spaces at the fair. We are proud of the following students, all of whom earned either first or second honors in the Life Science category, and many of whom earned special awards this year: Alexzandrea Buscarello ’14, Anjali Vasavada ’14, Mitali Bandyopadhyay ’16, Jennifer Piciw ’16, Elizabeth Smith ’16, Caroline Berberian ’17, Jeanne Marie Cassidy ’17, Jordan Earl ’17, and Elizabeth LoPreiato ’17.
Senior Published in New Haven Magazine Congratulations to Jessica Venables ’14 whose college essay, “Manual Labor,” was recently selected by New Haven Magazine for publication in their “High School Confidential” issue. Jessica’s essay, which details her struggle learning how to drive with a manual transmission, was one of 12 Connecticut high school student essays chosen to be part of the magazine’s spread. Shares Jess, “I am very proud of every handpicked word and edited sentence. My essay is the first piece I have ever written that I was excited to share with my parents and peers; I knew it reflected my personality as well as my ability as a writer.” Jess plans to attend University of Richmond this fall, where she was accepted early decision. Reflecting on the last four years, Jess counts the Academy as instrumental in her maturation: “I am extremely secure in being the person I am because of the support and encouragement I have received from our closeknit, compassionate community. Although I’ve identified myself as Catholic since I was six years old, now I understand what it means to be a part of a larger community actively practicing faith. SHA has impacted my life in the best possible way. I am thankful for the opportunity I was given to come to this school, and I cannot imagine spending these four years at any other high school.” You can read Jess’s essay in New Haven Magazine at http://www.newhavenmagazine.com.
Social Media: #SHA Turns One! This year has brought the Sacred Heart Academy community closer together through the reaches of social media. Since the launch of our new Facebook and Twitter pages, prospective students and parents, current students and parents, and alumnae alike can tune in to #SHA 24 hours a day. From Hamden, Connecticut to the West Coast, followers are kept abreast of all #SHAppenings, including sports signings, science fair winners, Flashback Fridays featuring faculty alumnae, and so much more. The firstever Facebook contest and giveaway drew hundreds of new “likes” to the page. To tune in and see what #SHA is all about, find us on Facebook and Twitter today! Facebook Page Sacred Heart Academy – Hamden, CT Principal’s Twitter @SHAhamden Athletic Twitter @SHApacers Or find all of our social media in one place at sacredhearthamden.org/mashup.
Sacred Heart Academy 23
AROUND THE ACADEMY
Sister Sheila O’Neill Receives Honorary Degree from Saint Anselm College Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D.,’71 received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters Degree in May from Saint Anselm College, Manchester, New Hampshire, at the 2014 commencement exercises. Also receiving honorary degrees were anchor and moderator of the CBS News Sunday broadcast “Face the Nation” and award-winning journalist Bob Schieffer and former Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and CEO of Covidien Richard J. Meelia. According to Saint Anselm President Steven R. DiSalvo, Ph.D., “These extraordinary leaders are impacting the world in meaningful, positive ways and represent the values and ideals that are at the heart of Saint Anselm’s mission — to educate leaders who make and find opportunities to engage in the service of diverse local, national and global fields, and communities.” Sr. Sheila accepts her Honorary Degree.
For Top Mathematicians – It all Adds Up! Congratulations to our top mathematicians — Danielle Beam ’15, Olivia Kelly ’14, Caroline Kohnert ’14, Lauren Davis ’15, Madeleine Donohue ’14, Michaela Matos ’14 and Madeline Ross ’14 – all of whom recently competed with students from more than 600 high schools across 29 states in Moody’s Mega Math (M3) Challenge. Coached by Math Department Chair Kathryn Gniadek and math teacher Stephanie Elder, the Sacred Heart teams were chosen to advance to the second round and remained as contenders for up to $20,000 in prizes. Two-hundred of the 1,152 teams that submitted viable solution papers were selected to advance to the second round. In the final round of judging, the team with Lauren Davis, Madeleine Donohue, Michaela Matos, and Madeline Ross was selected to receive one of 53 honorable mention awards…quite a distinction as only 5.6% of submitted papers were chosen for this recognition. These students have been awarded college scholarships by the Moody’s Foundation for their outstanding performance in the M3 Challenge.
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Principal Earns Nike Fuel 100 Honor Congratulations to Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 for being one of the top 100 NikeFuel earners in the world. With a community of more than 20 million members, NikeFuel honored Sr. Maureen with an engraved, limited-edition Rose Gold FuelBand SE. Shares Sr. Maureen, “I am so excited to receive this honor.”
Newest Sister Antonine Signorelli, ASCJ Scholars Celebrated achievements of the Academy’s foundress and first principal. These scholars form a distinct group of young women who display strong academic success with promise of future accomplishment. They truly affirm the Academy’s motto, Excelsior.
President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D.,’71 alongside the 2014 Sr. Antonine Scholars.
Each year, incoming freshmen with outstanding academic records who achieved the highest entrance exam scores are awarded
Legacy Strongly Represented in Incoming Class of 2018
Sister Antonine Signorelli, ASCJ Memorial Scholarships. Established in 1993, the scholarship honors the life, philosophy, and
The 2014 Sister Antonine Scholars and their families recently attended a reception held in their honor, hosted by the Admissions Office and current Antonine Scholars. This year’s scholars are Brittany Barbour of Branford, Charlotte Beatty of Guilford, Karlee Chapman of Milford, Serafina Cordero of Northford, Keely Greiner of Guilford, Isabelle Hommel of Guilford, Arushi Khanna of Derby, Eunji Lee of Trumbull, and Sarah Nastri of Cheshire. Congratulations to these accomplished young women, and to all members of the Class of 2018!
Legacies from the incoming Class of 2018 at Sacred Heart Academy were recognized at the Orientation for Incoming Freshmen. Twelve members of the class have mothers who are alumnae and three have grandmothers who are alumnae. Thirty-four class members have at least one sister who is a current student or graduate. Members of the incoming class come from 31 towns and 54 feeder schools. “Sacred Heart legacy is again strongly represented in this class. We are particularly struck with the number of alumnae who are sending their daughters to Sacred Heart. The presence of these young women at the Academy is a testament to the importance that families place on the values learned here, and their desire to ensure that the Sacred Heart tradition continues,” announced Director of Admissions Elaine Lamboley ’60 in welcoming the Class of 2018. The following members of the Class are 2018 are Sacred Heart Academy legacies: Marchella Abbate, Daughter of Kristin Capuano Abbate ’95 Ava Bellucci, Daughter of Sally Ann Bellucci ’87 Madison Blakeslee, Granddaughter of Susan Pieper Blakeslee ’60 Adrianna Bracale, Daughter of Janet Gambardella Bracale ’77 Alyssa Caldarella, Daughter of Dawn Colella Caldarella ’87 Carly Callahan, Granddaughter of Rose Ann Matteo Callahan ’56 Molly Cannon, Daughter of Robin Grammatico Cannon ’79 Jacqueline DeGennaro, Daughter of Mary Stanton DeGennaro ’81 Sinead Donnelly, Daughter of Karyn Gallagher ’87 Madeline Guth, Daughter of Kellie Ciaburro Guth ’88 Tessa Molloy, Granddaughter of Ann Cacace Buglione ’56 Caroline Noniewicz, Daughter of Maryann Sullivan Noniewicz ’82 Emma Reed, Daughter of Karen Smith Reed ’84 Georgia Rossetti, Daughter of Rita-Marie Rogers Rossetti ’87 Allegra Sette, Daughter of Lynn Velleca Sette ’82
Sacred Heart Academy 25
Foundation & Inspiration: Building the Sacred Heart Community Lattanzi ’55 who shares, “Sr. Antonine was a woman of deep faith, which she shared with us not only in words but also in actions.” While the first graduating Class of 1950 sent 16 young women off into the world, the Class of 1957 boasted 76 graduates, nearly five times the number of students who had graduated a mere seven years earlier. Certainly, there were too many students for the cozy campus at 295 Greene Street, even with the addition of Clelian Hall in the years between. Remembers Sr. Elaine, “Clelian Hall had two science rooms, two classrooms, the gym, and the cafeteria. The two buildings were connected by an underground tunnel. We carried chairs from the cafe to the gym for mass and for assemblies. . .then we carried the chairs back to the cafe.” Sr. Antonine Signorelli, ASCJ, a true visionary.
I
n her touching 2005 tribute, “A Remembrance of Sr. Antonine,” Sr. Ursula Bongiovanni, ASCJ recalled founding principal, Sr. Antonine Signorelli, ASCJ, as a woman whose strength, wisdom, and faith in Christ is the foundation and inspiration of Sacred Heart Academy. She writes, “Sr. Antonine’s guiding force, vision, and enthusiasm are still reflected in SHA students as they seek better ways of living and reflecting the loving Heart of Jesus.” Her words, so eloquently stated, perfectly capture the essence of a school still so inspired by the Sister most of us never met. Sr. Ursula, who recently celebrated her 101st birthday, vividly recalls how rapidly the Academy grew under the leadership of Sr. Antonine, principal of the Academy for nearly 20 years until her death in 1967. Violet Carbone ’55 remembers Sr. Antonine’s firm but gentle spirit: “We adored her; she ruled the school! She was very seriousminded with strong rules. . .especially about boys.” Joking aside, Violet adds, “We loved her dearly.” This sentiment is echoed by Sr. Elaine
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Conditions may have been cramped, but those early graduates, now forever known as the “Greene Street Girls,” still take pride in their pioneering role. Shared Barbara Jean Fiasconaro ’51, “I still like to think the early graduates formed the acorn from whence a tree came. We chose the uniforms, the class ring. It was the beginning and we were there.” The tuition was ten dollars a month, a good amount of money in those days. But for the parents of these students, and indeed, the students themselves, the Sacred Heart Academy education was worth every last cent. Barbara Jean elaborated, “I watched a little boy from 6:30 in the morning until school began. That’s how I paid my tuition.” Fortunately for this growing family of students, Sisters, and teachers, Mother Rosina, then the Mother Provincial, saw that the Greene Street campus could no longer house this booming population of students. In her 1956 address to prominent New Haven business and civic leaders, Mother Rosina informed her audience, “. . .present buildings are in need of repair and renovation and additional space for expansion is non-existent.” She added, “The Academy must meet the challenge of expansion immediately.”
In their farewell address, the Class of 1957 confidently declared, “We can say to our alma mater, ‘You have built well for a better tomorrow!’ ” So, in the summer of 1957, Sr. Antonine initiated and directed the monumental task of moving Sacred Heart Academy from Greene Street to Benham Street where it thrives today. “Sr. Antonine was committed to making the Academy a great school for young women and she instilled in all of us our obligation to help achieve this goal,” offers Sr. Elaine. This obligation is now in the hands of President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71. Through her Building on Excellence plan, the more recent master plan, and her steadfast commitment to service, Sr. Sheila is certainly a visionary leader in her own right. As the Academy continues to grow and prepare for the future, Sr. Sheila and Principal Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 are ready for the challenge. In August, the Class of 2017, 132 members strong, crossed the threshold of Sacred Heart Academy for the first time. They will graduate 60 years after the Class of 1957 processed out of Clelian Hall and onto Greene Street with their diplomas. In their farewell address, the Class of 1957 confidently declared, “We can say to our alma mater, ‘You have built well for a better tomorrow!’ ” And for future generations of SHA girls, the Class of 1957 offered faith, love, and hope: “May the new Sacred Heart Academy be symbolic of the continuing building of our lives toward a rich adult life of faith and love, and apostolic endeavor for the Church and our families!” Haven’t faith, love, and hope proven to be the best architects of all?
Building on Excellence A Road Map for our Future – 2011 - 2014
Dear Friends, In the fall of 2010 when Sr. Maureen Flynn and I were assigned to Sacred Heart Academy to implement the president-principal administrative model, it was important for us to better understand our alma mater. In order to facilitate our understanding, we invited more than 150 members of the Sacred Heart Academy family that included alumnae, parents, and friends to dream about the future of the Academy. The result of that process was Building on Excellence, a blueprint that would influence the next four years. I am happy to report that we are close to completing this very illuminating adventure. As a result, a number of important changes have been made, including building updates, such as classroom and hallway upgrades, the installation of energy efficient lighting, and new student lockers. Technology throughout the building has also been upgraded, and the gym has been air-conditioned. Faculty and staff salaries and benefits have been evaluated and increased, and we have increased our support staff, as well. The Advisory Board, now called the
Advisory Council, has been restructured. We have undergone a rebranding, and student spirit, leadership, and service have been enhanced. We are now in the final phase of Building on Excellence, forming task forces to study our fine arts and athletic programs. Indeed, it has been an inspiring four years! Our charge now is to move forward with our newly completed master plan and create a strategic plan that will guide us for the next five years. Excelsior is our driving force. With God’s grace, our outstanding faculty and staff, and our bright and beautiful students, many exciting things await us! With many blessings,
Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 President
Sacred Heart Academy 27
MISSION ADVANCEMENT
FantaSHA Auction
a SWELL affair with a twenties flair This year’s FantaSHA Auction, Roaring Twenties was coordinated by chairs David and Kristen Falls (pictured below left). Their committee of 75 current and former parents and alumnae transformed the gym into a decadent 1920s mansion. Over 300 guests attended and helped to raise more than $150,000. Always the most exciting part of the evening, Hands Up for Heart, which supports need-based scholarships, raised nearly $75,000. Many thanks to our generous families and friends that made our Roaring Twenties such a huge success.
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Hearts Community of the
Award Nomination Form
The Annual Fund
Awards will be presented during a Mass of Celebration on Friday, February 6, 2015. A reception will follow for family and friends of recipients. We invite nominations for the 2015 Hearts of the Community Award. Nominees may be alumnae, friends of the Academy, and former or current parents and faculty. Please submit nominations to: Sacred Heart Academy, Office of Mission Advancement, 265 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514 or mpisani@sacredhearthamden.org using this form.
The Annual Fund is the single most important gift you can make to Sacred Heart Academy. Funds raised are allocated to: • tuition assistance • facility upgrades • capital improvements • student & faculty enrichment
Name of nominee____________________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ Email _____________________________________________________________ Affiliation:
Alumna_____
Parent_____
Faculty_____
Friend_____
Reason(s) for nomination ______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Nominated by_______________________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ Email _____________________________________________________________
Endowed and Named Scholarships The Sacred Heart Academy Endowment Fund provides need-based scholarships for students. Gifts to the Endowment Fund help reduce tuition and secure the dreams of talented young women who qualify, regardless of their ability to pay. While gifts in any amount may be made to the Endowment Fund, donors have the option of establishing named scholarships with gifts of $15,000 or more. Join us in this priceless investment in our students! Please contact Director of Mission Advancement Debbie Camner at 203-287-8181, x318 for information on contributing to the Endowment Fund or establishing a named scholarship.
By giving to the Sacred Heart Annual Fund—Treasures from the Heart, you help Sacred Heart Academy to be the very best it can be. Thanks to you, our students. . . • take 15 AP courses and an additional five online courses offered by Online School for Girls • sequence DNA genes; 24 DNA sequences are currently published in GenBank • perform approximately 32,500 hours of service annually • participate in 13 varsity and junior varsity sports • receive $435,000 in tuition assistance, representing 32% of our population • receive nearly $22,000,000 in scholarship dollars for college We work hard for our students and because of you, we can deliver on our promise of excellence in Catholic education.
The Sacred Heart Academy
Heritage Society
In 2007, former principal Sr. Ritamary Schulz, ASCJ, ’58 established the Heritage Society to give alumnae, their families, and other friends of SHA an opportunity to make bequests to Sacred Heart Academy. Charitable bequests may include cash, stocks, real estate, or other property. We welcome open discussions with you or your attorney, accountant or financial advisor on the specifics of including Sacred Heart Academy in your estate plans. Please contact the Office of Mission Advancement at 203-287-8181, x318 for further information.
Sacred Heart Academy 29
STRONG BONDS RED & WHITE LINE
1951
Loretta Hanrahan Bruno retired from her career as a kindergarten teacher. She and her husband Joe have six children and six grandchildren, and enjoy living in the Florida sunshine! Rosemari Hasandras Clogher is enjoying her retirement from nursing; she is especially enjoying the extra time she is able to spend with her grandsons.
1953
Audrey Stilson Battista is a retired registered nurse. She and her husband have six children and 13 grandchildren and are very active in parish ministry, especially the pro-life movement.
1954
Yvonne Fahy has been enjoying her retirement in Florida for the past ten years. Marie Materessa Niro lives in East Haven and has a newfound love for oil painting and portrait sketching. Reflecting on her days at SHA, Marie states: “I learned more at SHA in four years than my girls learned in four years of college. It was and is THE BEST!”
1957
Judith Dering Ellis retired from Yale University and has enjoyed traveling throughout Europe with six of her 11 grandchildren. Nancy Betzner Sisson and her husband Bob have been married for 53 years. Nancy still works part-time in the optical trade and thanks God for the “positive motivation taken from our SHA years.”
1960
Susan Fogarty is currently dedicating her time as a volunteer at a cancer center. She enjoys traveling, and recently journeyed to Turkey, Italy, and Slovenia. Susan looks forward to cruising the Baltic Sea and visiting Iceland in the spring and has made plans for a river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam in October.
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1963
Mary Fischer Curtiss retired in 2006 after 35 years of teaching English at Trumbull High School. In 2008, Mary and her husband Clayton, also an English teacher, were hired to teach in the Kingdom of Jordan for several months and loved the experience, teaching students from 22 different countries.
1964
Bette Mastagni Posch is a reading specialist at Ruffing Montessori School in Ohio. She is the proud grandmother of three grandchildren.
1966
Linda Seaman Demetrio retired from 30 years of teaching in the West Haven Public School System. She married James J. Demetrio in 2009 in California. Jim is a graduate of ND ‘66 and the US Air Force Academy in 1971. Since moving to Reno, Nevada, Linda has been volunteering as a court - appointed special advocate for children. Linda and Jim continue to enjoy traveling, amateur photography, reading, and volunteering in their church. “The most exciting news is that my daughter Megan Leigh Edmonds Hong ’95, a graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music, is now living in Southern California and had her first child in early October. We are overjoyed.”
Maura Wilson Coppola and Henry Coppola
1970
Maura Wilson Coppola and her husband Henry recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. Says Maura, “We are grateful for these wonderful years.”
1971
Cecilia Vargas lives in Guayaquil, Ecuador, and often travels back to the United States. Reflecting on her experience at SHA, Cecilia shares “I spent one of the most wonderful years of my life (1970 – 71) at Sacred Heart Academy. I would like to be in touch with my classmates and friends. Please contact me at mceciliavargasa@gmail.com.”
1974
Rosalie Gerbi Lamontagne is in her second year of retirement after 31 years as a teacher, and is now fully enjoying being a doting grandmother to her two-year-old granddaughter. She and her husband live in Massachusetts.
Margo Flaherty Burke retired after 32 years as a social worker for the State of Connecticut. She is now the director of confirmation at St. Mary of the Visitation Parish in Clinton. “Working with teens to develop a personal relationship with our Lord brings me joy, fulfillment, and many blessings!” Margo and her husband recently celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary.
1968
1975
1967
Patricia Giaimo Gambardella retired from the East Haven Public School System in June 2012. She is now a part-time instructor at Gateway Community College in New Haven and is also co-president of the Catholic Charity League of New Haven.
1969
Janet Garrison Criscio is pleased to announce that she retired from Yale-New Haven Hospital after 41 years. She is fully enjoying her three grandsons and her granddaughter!
Sr. Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ, Ph.D. was recently appointed Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Bridgeport, which includes all of Fairfield County. She previously taught and served as a principal at parochial, diocesan, and community-owned schools in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Missouri, and Rhode Island before beginning her ministry as Deputy Superintendent in 2006. Sister received her Ph.D. in educational administration/supervision and church leadership from Fordham University.
1976
Gail Fappiano Pritchard and her husband Bill have been married for 33 years and live in Pembroke, New Hampshire. They have three children: Meghan (29), Laura (26), and Jay (19). Gail is a nurse in labor and delivery at Elliot Hospital in Manchester, New Hampshire.
1977
Congratulations to Alumnae Director Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ who was recently elected the treasurer of the Executive Board of the National Conference of Vicars for Religious.
1992
Tricia Triana Coppola and her husband have two sons and live in North Haven. Tricia is in her 13th year of teaching second grade at Green Acres Elementary School in North Haven.
1993
Lisa Abate Haynes and her husband live in Branford. They are the proud parents of Tyler Louis Haynes, born on April 22, 2013.
1998
Joanne Mastroianni Garbatini lives in North Haven with her husband Ronald and their two children, Steven and Gina Garbatini ’13. They recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. Congratulations!
Elyce Richard Reavely is pleased to announce the opening of her new business, Joey Cat Crafts, specializing in unique sewn goods for children and the home, available for viewing at www.facebook.com/Joeycatcrafts. Her Etsy shop will soon be live for online purchases! Elyce lives in Bath, Maine, with her husband Mike and two children, Elijah and Sarah.
1980
2001
1983
2002
1978
Marlene Barone Cohen is Director of Operations at Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Connecticut. She is the proud mother of three children, all of whom have successfully completed college.
Cathy Mackey had a blast with classmate Margaret Nicholls Hallinan while planning their 30th Reunion in June 2013. She credits that experience with bringing her closer to SHA and other members of the Class of 1983! Cheryl Rykowski-Etkin currently lives in Danbury and is president of CRE Solutions, Inc., a consulting company that provides learning and development solutions to corporations worldwide.
1986
Alison DeCaprio DiPalma and her husband are the proud parents of two beautiful children, Ava and Peter. She is a physical therapist and is very active in her parish, Our Lady of Pompeii Church.
Regan Flynn and Rob Vaccarino
Regan Flynn is engaged to Rob Vaccarino of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Regan and Rob met freshman year at Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. Regan is a senior manager at the Advisory Board Company, a healthcare research and consulting firm in Northwest DC and Rob is head of the theater department and teaches English at Potomac High School in Oxon Hill, Maryland. They will be married on April 18, 2015, at St. Peter’s on Capitol Hill in Washington.
Jennifer Anastasio lives in North Haven and is celebrating two years of outpatient private practice in mental health for children and adolescents. Tara Cocchiarella Barreira and her husband Robert live in Somerville, Massachusetts. Tara is a scientist in bioprocess research and development for Pfizer, Inc.
2004
Francine Conelli Coss and her husband live in East Haven. Francine is superintendent in Thomaston.
Evan Robert Figueiredo
Brittany McDermott Figueiredo and her husband Mark welcomed their son Evan Robert on October 7, 2013. Congratulations! Stephanie Shocki is currently living in Woodbury and is in her sixth year of teaching second grade in Waterbury.
2006
Blair Destito is currently completing her master’s degree in theology at Villanova University.
1991
Kristen Gerard is senior fashion editor at SELF magazine in Manhattan. She recently ran her first New York Marathon!
Gina Aflalo is engaged to Jason Bakalar of Naugatuck. They plan to marry in New York in March 2015. She works at ESPN as a promotions coordinator for international on air promotions and lives in Waterbury.
Gina Aflalo and Jason Bakalar
Sacred Heart Academy 31
STRONG BONDS
2007
Regina Scafariello graduated from Sacred Heart University in May 2013, with a doctorate in physical therapy. She passed the board exam in July and launched her career as a physical therapist in the fall of 2013.
2008
Christina Brzozowski is a designer for Urban Outfitters, working at the company’s headquarters in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Bethany Burke graduated from Saint Anselm College in 2012 with a BSRN. She works in the ICU at Yale-New Haven Hospital, St. Raphael Campus and “loves the working life!” Whitney Viola lives in Madison and is currently employed by SUBWAY World Headquarters as a production coordinator in the operations department.
Be a Part of the Online Community Stay Connected. Register or re-register today for the SHA Online Community on our website. Its as easy as 1...2...3! 1. Visit sacredhearthamden.org 2. Click ‘Login’ in top right corner 3. Click ‘New User Registration’ Registering gives you the opportunity to create a personal profile and update information online, and gives Sacred Heart the opportunity to communicate with you via email.
Career Day 2014 — A Great Success!
2009
Shelby Carlo graduated cum laude from Southern Connecticut State University with a BS in communication disorders. She is pursuing a master’s degree in speech pathology from Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, New York. Ally Lipkvich graduated from the University of Findlay in Ohio and is now working at River Mountain Farm in Versailles, Kentucky, where she’s living her dream. Sasha Stein graduated from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield with a BS in accounting and now lives in Carlsbad, California, where she is an accounting assistant for Cali Bamboo in San Diego, California.
2010
Kelsey Higgins is a student at UCONN with “no news, but I miss you guys at SHA and hope all is well!”
2011
Cassie Lipkvich is a junior nursing major at the University of Vermont and loves it! Chelsea Rubsam is presently involved in an internship in design and merchandising for DKNY/Donna Karan in New York.
2013
Katherine Baum is an honors student at Boston College…and loving it! 32
More than 20 alumnae returned to Sacred Heart in April for Career Day. Students attended seminars on careers ranging from pharmacy to fashion design. The event showcased our illustrious alumnae and reinforced what we tell our students each day…within each student is the possibility of achieving excellence. Offered Cheryl Cronin ’84, owner of Cronin Photography in Branford, “I loved participating in Career Day and meeting students who were inspired and motivated.” Beth Iovanne Blazevich ’75—Nursing Profession (left), and Sr. Mary Ellen Burns, ASCJ, ’74— Legal Profession (top)
Heart Speaks to Heart
In Memoriam Arthur Astorino, father of Susan Astorino ’74 and Helene Astorino Robbins ’76 Vincent Basserman, father of Susan Basserman Criscuolo ’69 William Dahill, father of Heather Dahill ’90
Visit “Heart Speaks to Heart,” a blog for spiritual inspiration, featuring reflections from Director of Alumnae Relations Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 at http://heartspeaksblog.wordpress.com.
Alfred A. D’Albero, father of Sr. Doretta Jean D’Albero, ASCJ ’77 Bernice D’Eugenio, mother of Janet D’Eugenio ’74 Sr. Ernestine Desiderio, ASCJ, former faculty member Janet Dombroski ’80 Salvatore Elmo, father of Martha Elmo Amore ’74 Genevieve Ferraro, mother of Annmarie Ferraro Masella ’81 John F. Fox, father of Susan Fox Mackey ’62, Regina Fox Shirey ’65, and Joan Fox Sullivan ’71 Antoinette Celone Proto Fucci, mother of Carol Proto Hornish ’61 Sharon Generoso, mother of Allison Generoso ’05 Rev. Henry M. Groseclose, father of Louise Vannoorbeeck, school nurse Eileen Hunihan ’58 Adriana Kulczycky ’75 Joseph Ludington, brother of Debra Ludington Ferrigno ’86 William Maffeo, father of Cynthia Maffeo Paolella ’83, and Patricia Maffeo Didiano ’90 Terry Frese Masto ’56, former guidance counselor Theresa “Terry” Czaplicki Mastriano ’61 Timothy O’Connor, father of Sr. Ellen O’Connor, ASCJ ’75 Carolyn Romano Palmieri ’57 Teresa “Terri” Pagnotti Savo ’56 Eric Theilgard, husband of Maria Ricardo Theilgard ’86 Alyce Marie VanArsdale, mother of Ellen VanArsdale Peters ’64 JoAnn Viscuso, mother of Andrea Viscuso ’03 Brian G. Walsh, brother of Karen Walsh Reidy ’74 Mary Joy Walsh, mother of Sr. Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ ’75, Catherine Walsh ’77, and Sr. Anne Theresa Walsh, ASCJ ’81 Mary Keniry Wilson ’79
JoMichelle Corrales-Kean, Ph.D., ’93 — Biomedical Research
Sacred Heart Academy 33
2013 – 2014
Sacred Heart Academy Advisory Council Roger J. Sciascia, FP—Chair Managing Partner ı Weinstein & Anastasio, PC Mary Patricia Caputo, FP—Vice Chair Director of Marketing and Publications, Office of Public Affairs ı Southern Connecticut State University
Advisory Council Committee Chairs Roger J. Sciascia, FP ı Executive Committee Mary Patricia Caputo, FP ı Advancement Committee Thomas M. D’Addario, FP ı Building and Maintenance Committee James E. Bowman, FP ı Finance Committee Karen S. Harris, FP ı Investment Committee Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 ı Programs Committee
Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Provincial Council Sr. Anne Theresa Walsh, ASCJ, ’81 ı Provincial Superior Sr. Linda Pettinella, ASCJ, ’65 ı Vice Provincial and Councilor Sr. Ellen Cronan, ASCJ, ’58 ı Councilor Sr. Veronica Beato, ASCJ ı Councilor Sr. Virginia Herbers, ASCJ ı Councilor Sr. Lisa Retort, ASCJ ı Secretary Sr. Maureen P. Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 ı Treasurer
James E. Bowman, FP Partner ı Bowman, Monaco & Black, PC MaryGrace N. Santagata Crisci ’88 Major Sales Account Manager ı Altura Communication Solutions Thomas M. D’Addario, FP President ı D’Addario Buick GMC Cadillac Nissan Anne Fitzpatrick Donahue ’84 Senior Vice President ı U.S. Bank Mary-Ann P. Haran, Esq., FP Attorney at Law ı Law Office of Mary-Ann P. Haran Karen S. Harris, FP Associate Controller, Treasury & Gift Administration ı Yale University Lynne M. Hillis, M.D., FP Internal Medicine ı West Haven Medical Group Richard J. Iovanne Region Manager, SVP ı People’s United Bank Roger A. Milici, Jr. Vice President Office of Development & University Relations ı Fordham University Robert Nastri, Jr., Esq., FP, CP Judge ı State of Connecticut Superior Court Sr. Linda Pettinella, ASCJ, ’65 Vice Provincial and Councilor ı Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Thomas P. Smith, Jr. Chief Insurance Officer ı Knights of Columbus Mallory A. Tarca ’04 Internal Auditor ı PartnerRE Mary Lee Weber, FP Director of Business Development ı Cashman & Katz Sr. Sheila M. O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71, President ı Sacred Heart Academy Sr. Maureen P. Flynn, ASCJ, ’81, Principal ı Sacred Heart Academy Deborah S. Camner, Director of Mission Advancement ı Sacred Heart Academy Maria Cammarota, Business Manager ı Sacred Heart Academy
FP—Former Parent 34
CP—Current Parent
THANK
FOR BEING THE
OF SACRED HEART ACADEMY. THANK YOU for continuing the legacy and traditions that link the thousands of alumnae with the students who walk in our halls today. THANK YOU for continuing to make a commitment to contribute to the Sacred Heart Academy Annual Fund.
Please give generously to the Annual Fund and know that YOU are the HEART of Sacred Heart Academy. Giving Circles Founder’s Circle Cornerstone Circle Charter Circle Mother Clelia Merloni Circle Excelsior Circle
$25,000 + $10,000 + $ 5,000 + $ 2,500 + $ 1,000 +
Sr. Antonine Signorelli Circle Red & White Circle The 21st Century Circle Heart to Heart Circle
$ 500 + $ 250 + $ 100 + up to $99
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