Saint Joseph Academy Sharing a Tradition of Excellence with Alumnae, Parents and Friends www.sja1890.org
UPDATE UPDATE
UPDATE Fa l l
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Serving Our “Dear Neighbors”
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
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Letter
from the President
Saint Joseph Academy 3430 Rocky River Drive Cleveland, Ohio 44111 216-251-6788 www.sja1890.org UPDATE is published by Saint Joseph Academy for alumnae, parents and friends. Contributors to this issue of UPDATE included: Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, Mary Ann Fischer J’66, Jill Satanek Garlock J’92, Emily Hanson J’99, Betty Hjort, Becky Goede McNulty J’96, Maria Mueller, and Ron Perger. Photography courtesy of Marianne Mangan, John Mulgrew, Natalie Nadozirny J’93, Ripcho Studios, Thomas & Thomas Phototgraphy and Woodard Photography For more information or questions, please contact Ron Perger at 216-619-1937 or at rperger@sja1890.org
M ission S tatement
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aint Joseph Academy, an accredited, comprehensive Catholic high school founded in 1890 by the Congregation of Saint Joseph, exists for the purpose of providing quality education for young women of diverse backgrounds. Central to the life of our school is a thrust for peace and justice in a community which promotes love of God, respect for self, others and the environment through living out the Gospel message. We encourage each student to develop positive values and to articulate her thinking so that she can be a leader making constructive contributions to society. We endeavor to nurture the talents of each young woman so she becomes a woman of faith with global perspective who is striving for integrity and preparing for life. Cover Photo: L to R: Zaina Leon J’09, Emma Cleary J’09, Therese Greco J’09, Hannah Gaffney J’09 Molly Brennan J’09 and Krista Freeman J’07 help clean up and burn scrap lumber during their mission trip to Neon, Kentucky.
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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Dear Alumnae and Friends of Saint Joseph Academy This is the season for thankfulness and here at the Academy we are thankful for so much. We are truly blessed. We are thankful for our wonderful young women. When I visit a classroom I am truly amazed how quickly our girls are learning. They can sing Happy Birthday in Mandarin Chinese and even count to 100 in addition to carrying on a conversation. They are growing in faith as well. This fall 24 young women were commissioned to become Eucharistic Ministers. What a blessing! Four of our students received recognition as National Merit Scholars. Our Cross Country team placed 11th in the state and our Golf team qualified for Districts. The fall musical production was a great success. We are thankful for our parents who continue to sacrifice to educate and empower their daughters with the 21st century education their daughters receive at the Academy. We are thankful for our faculty and staff who work tirelessly to provide the educational, spiritual and athletic opportunities for our young women. We are thankful for our alumnae. This fall we had reunions for St. Therese Academy, Nazareth and the Saint Joseph Academy Grand Reunion attended by over 400 alumnae. We are thankful for our benefactors. This year we completed the “Campaign for Saint Joseph Academy,” raising over $4 million for our endowment. And we are thankful for the continuing charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph who by their presence and prayers continue to inspire all of us. During this season of love and miracles, we will keep all of you in our prayers to thank you for all you continue to do to support Saint Joseph Academy and our young women. God Bless,
Mary Ann Corrigan – Davis J’71 President
Chinese Program a Huge Success
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inming Tong came from Changchun, the capital city of Jilin Province. It’s in the northeast part of China. She has been teaching English since graduating from college six years ago. Over that time, Mrs. Tong has received numerous national awards in both her district, her region and throughout China. Last June, she took part in the Teachers of Critical Language Program, a program sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and U.S. State Department. After competitive tests and interviews she was chosen for the program. “I am so lucky to have this opportunity. I hope to share the Chinese culture, customs and festivals with the American girls. I feel this is a great honor. It is an unforgettable experience for me. I will use the teaching methods I am learning and put them into practice in China and share these methods with my colleagues in my home school. I think it will benefit my Chinese students,” she commented. Mrs. Tong is enthusiastic about participating in this teaching program, as it gives her an opportunity to introduce Chinese culture, history, and geography to American students, she explained. “Certainly, I can use this chance to learn more about American culture and its teaching methodologies, which will help my classroom teaching, my future career development and the teaching reform in my home school. “ Mrs. Tong’s school in China is very different from Saint Joseph Academy. Her school’s campus has four teaching buildings, a library, a four-floor gym, a dormitory and many other advanced teaching facilities. In addition, the school is made up of primary school and junior middle school, 71 teaching classes, 3700 students. Presently, there are
Top; Mrs. Tong and her students celebrate the Chinese Harvest Festival with moon cakes. Right: A postcard of Middle School #87 where Mrs. Tong teaches English. Left: Mrs. Xinming Tong, Chinese Teacher
more than 245 teachers. “It is a very famous school in Changchun,” she said proudly. Teaching a second language of English or Chinese are very similar. The goal of learning a second language is to master the ability to communicate in that language. Her students are often organized in role play or games to adjust their use of Chinese to different social contexts. Classroom materials and activities reflect real-life situations, which can motivate students’ involvement in classroom activities. “I combine the culture and knowledge in my teaching, helping the girls experience the different culture.” When students learn numbers, she teaches them how to do the papercutting— double happiness. To celebrate the
Mid-autumn Festival, they discuss the origin of the festival, tell the story of Chang and eat mooncakes. When they learn about someones birthday, they learned to sing “Happy Birthday” in Chinese. “The girls are really enjoying the class and their immersion into Chinese culture. Interest in the Chinese Club was so extensive there are four clubs, one for each grade level. “Over spring break we are organizing a 10-day trip to China that will include a visit to Mrs. Tong’s hometown and school. Our hope is that we can build an on-going relationship, perhaps even some kind of exchange program.” said Menard.
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Academy At the
Serving Our Dear Neighbor This past summer, students Molly Brenna J’09, Emma Cleary J’09, Krista Freeman J’07, Hannah Gaffney J’09, Therese Greco J’09, Zaina Leon J’09, Katie McGuire J’07 and Kaitlin McPhee J’08 and teachers Ms. Emily Hanson J’99 and Mr. Dennis Hjort traveled to Neon, Kentucky to participate in Saint Joseph Academy’s first mission trip. This week long experience definitely changed the lives of the eight young ladies and two teachers. Neon, Kentucky is a small town in the Appalachian Mountains. The group worked with a non-profit organization called H.O.M.E.S. (Housing Oriented Ministries Established for Service) which was founded to help low-income families obtain affordable housing in the southeastern part of Kentucky. For every one hour of labor a volunteer completes, H.O.M.E.S. will receive ten dollars which can then go towards purchasing building supplies or other properties. Volunteer groups can be assigned tasks from landscaping to demolition to putting up dry wall and typically will work seven hours a day. The group from Saint Joseph Academy was given the task of painting the exterior of a house for a middle aged couple. The husband had a stroke a few years earlier and was left unable to work and in need of constant care. Our students quickly jumped into action and completed any tasks that needed to be done. They scraped off the peeling paint of the two story house, primed and gave the house two coats of paint. “The young women were fearless when it came to climbing up the ladders to the second story and painting the
Katie McGuire J’07 and Kaitlin McPhee J’08 apply a coat of primer to the house SJA was assigned to paint on their mission trip.
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
In an effort to more fully understand the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph, the Academy has chosen to focus on one of the aspects that flows out of their mission of unioning. This year at the Academy, the students, faculty and staff are being asked to embrace the aspect of serving “the dear neighbor.” This idea dates to the early origins of the Sisters when they would travel around LePuy, France helping those in need.
L to R. Katie McGuire, Krista Freeman, Hannah Gaffney, Emma Cleary, Molly Brennan Zaina Leon, Theresa Greco, Kaitlin McPhee, along with Dean of Women Emily Hanson J’99 and Campus Minister Dennis Hjort with the couple whose house was painted by SJA students.
eaves of the house,” according to Ms. Emily Hanson J’99, Dean of Women, who accompanied the girls on the trip. Another job which the young women tackled was working a burn pile for the day. Although concerned over the environmental impact, H.O.M.E.S. is able to save hundreds of dollars by burning scrap materials instead of taking it to the dump, which charges them per truck load. The money H.O.M.E.S. saves is then put towards helping more members of the community. The week long mission trip was also filled with daily prayers and reflections. Each day had a theme which the group was able to focus on throughout the day. After dinner, everyone would gather together to participate in the daily reflection. The reflections often brought out humbling moments where they recognized how much they had in comparison to others. Everyone was constantly amazed how such small acts, such as working a burn pile, can provide so much and help so many. It really taught all of them that small acts of service are as valuable as large ones. The girls all agreed that their mission trip was an amazing experience that no one in the group will forget. They learned lessons about faith, friendship, hard work and gratitude which will last a lifetime.
Granparents Day
Thirty-Four SJA Students Commissioned as Eucharistic Ministers In September, thirty-four students from the Class of 2008 were commissioned as Eucharistic Ministers at Saint Joseph Academy at the Commissioning Mass attended by students and family members. These ministers will help distribute the Eucharist at school Masses and in daily chapel throughout the school year. “We are truly blessed to have so many young women willing to be of service,” remarked Campus Minister, Mrs. Barbara Fagan. The young women are: Mary Grace Adler J’08, Catherine Bajorek J’08, Margaret Barrett J’08, Christine Bartholomew J’08, Jacqueline Boehnlein J’08, Mackenzie Bova J’08, Angelina Chuppa J’08, Emily Dydo J’08, Catherine Fagnilli J’08, Kathleen Finn J’08, Kristen Fortuna J’08, Donna Friedman J’08, Elizabeth Gaertner J’08, Sarah Ginty J’08, Angela Grasela J’08, Bethany Halusker J’08, Eleanore Hilow J’08, Claire Hogan J’08, Elizabeth Irizarry J’08, Caitlin Kahler J’08, Rebecca Kostell J’08, Theresa Lohn J’08, Maria Lopez J’08, Bridget Madden J’08, Clare McGrath J’08, Caitlin Messina J’08, Deborah Nemeh J’08, Paige Pierce J’08, Ellen Setzer J’08, Shannon Tomek J’08, Lauryn Wasil J’08, Brooke VanDenHaute J’08, Mary Wallenhorst J’08 and Allison Zentarski J’08
On November 1, 2007 the auditorium of Saint Joseph Academy was filled as the grandparents of the Class of 2011 came for lunch and Mass. Over 130 grandparents were treated to a chance to dine with their granddaughters and find out what’s going on at Saint Joseph Academy. President Mary Ann CorriganDavis J’71 spoke about providing their granddaughters the opportunity of a 21st century education and what that encompasses. She introduced Mrs. Xinming Tong who is at Saint Joseph Academy this year on a grant from the U.S. State Department, teaching Mandarin Chinese. The students showed their burgeoning talents by singing, having a conversation and introducing their family in Chinese. The grandparents were also treated to a performance by Ceclia’s Song , the a cappella singing group, and Mass for All Saints Day.
Henry and Sylvia Buehner enjoyed being introduced in Chinese by their Granddaughter Kristen Hord J’11.
Amanda Drapac-Novotny Students Participate in Cleveland Clinic Summer Internship Program Wins Target House and Volunteer Trip Anne Marie was able to be a participant in Anne Marie O’Toole J’09 and Megan Target and the Hearst Teen Network held a national contest designed to reward eight teen girls who exemplify the true spirit of volunteerism. Amanda Drapac-Novotny J’10, won the ultimate volunteer prize – a chance to visit Target House for a four-day volunteer trip and participate in a variety of meaningful programs that aid seriously ill children at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. After reflecting on her recent experience, Amanda commented, “I found Target House to be a place of joy and hope. My entire experience at Target House was the most surprising and rewarding one of my life.”
Stefancin J’09 completed an intensive Cleveland Clinic Internship this past summer. The requirements for entrance into the program were extensive as was the program itself. Anne Marie and Megan participated in the ’Nurses of the Future’ program. They learn how they can begins careers as nurses and researchers at one of the top hospitals in the country. Anne Marie O’Toole completed the nursing intership in cooperation with Lutheran Hospital. She said her experience this past summer was, “Simply amazing.”
surgical procedures and was a member of an on-going research project in which she studied the effects of music on sedation. Megan Stefancin completed her nursing internship at Lakewood Hospital. Megan’s mentor was Mary Sopko Montague RN, J’73. During her internship she assisted in skin care management working with Mary to treat pressure ulcers. “It was really neat watching people heal,” Megan said. In addition to skin care, Megan also observed in the ER, surgery and radiology.
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
SJA
SJA Celebrates Unity Day
Visitors to
Mario Marino, Chairman, Venture Philanthropy Partners Beth Darmsteder, The Cleveland Foundation Michelle Biggins, Parent of alumna
Lemuel Stewart, The Cleveland Foundation Emily Speer, Metro Health Mary Grace Pattison, NatCity Investments, Inc. Nancy Slominsky Charney J’77, President, NS Charney & Associates Patrick T. Hanratty, Managing Director, Capital Advisors, Ltd. Michael C. Kozma, Vice President/Branch Manager, National City Bank Jan Murphy, President, Fairview Hospital Sue Schroer, Friend of the Academy Kathleen Peters Homyock, N’75, Vice President Institutional Marketing, Key Bank Capital Markets Carol Klimas, Head of School, Lake Ridge Academy
L to R: Seated: Jeanette Abifadel J’10 and Nancy Abdelshahid J’09. Standing L to R: Shaleene Tyus J’09, Elizabeth Lynch J’08, Zina Iyango J’08, Joan Yokie J’09, Sr. Juanita Shealy CSJ, Margaret Whisenant J’11, Henna Patel J’11, Ashley Serrano J’10, Marielena Frazier J’10 and Marilynn Serrano J’10.
Celebrating the many heritages and traditions representing over twenty-two countries from around the world is what makes Unity so special at the Academy. The students shared food, dance, clothing and artifacts that represented their various cultures.
Honors Pre-Calculus students visit URS Corporation
Br. Peter Graham, CSC President, St. Edward High School Rev. Tim Kesicki, SJ President, St. Ignatius High School Rev. Albert Marflak, OSB President, Benedictine High School Rev. Ted Haag, OFM President, Padua High School Karl Ertle, President/Principal, Cleveland Central Catholic High School Sr. Gretchen Rodenfels, OSU President, Beaumont School Maureen McCafferty Arbeznik, J’69 Principal, Lakewood Catholic Academy Suzanne Huber Ferrara, J’87 Vice President, National City Bank
Tom Harrison, CPA Schmitz, Corrrigan, Krause & Company Ken Johnson, Vise President Campbell & Company
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Mrs. Suzanne Smiley-Rozic, the moderator of Unity Day said, “This is a great time for the young women at SJA to see “Our Dear Neighbor” on a global perspective and to understand that no matter what country our families are from, there are many more similarities than there are differences.”
On November 16, SJA math students had the opportunity to visit URS Corporation, an engineering company in downtown Cleveland. Tina Colombo Mares J’90 (standing second from left)
invited the students to visit URS and planned the tour to acquaint the students with different kinds of engineering such as mechanical, civil, landscape, as well as architectural. The students were accompanied by math teacher Paula Schuetz, and Alumnae Director and former math teacher Mary Ann Fischer J’66. All the students came away with an appreciation of the many opportunities for women in the engineering field!
Ring Day at SJA Following a long, wonderful tradition at the Academy, the Class of 2009 received their rings after they were blessed at the ring ceremony attended by the entire Academy student body and the families of the junior class. Showing off their rings are L to R: Briana Papatto J’09, Kara Marlowe J’09, Elizabeth Wagner J’09, Colleen Gallagher J’09 and Maura Heffernan J’09.
Welcome Class of 2011 Class of 2011 Legacy Connections FRESHMAN
MOTHER
Clare Brady Kylie Brooks Kathryn Burke Kristi Busch Cori Dantio Mary DeCrane Nicole Doctor Julie Dydo Allisha Gorczyca Deirdre Heffernan Kathleen Keane Kasey Kramer Nora Kramer Sarah Kuzma Andrea Lozinski Katlyn Lyons Megan Marcinick Victoria Masella Moira McGlynn Melanie Mironovich India Munday Maria Nagle Farrell O’Malley Patricia O’Toole Tessa Occhionero Maria Papotto Maria Parente Victoria Piecuch Morgan Rahman Alyssa Rawlings Emily Rosepal Alison Roudebush Amanda Schnupp Sabrina Semidey Jessica Smith Megan Soos Sara Stefancin Meryem Waters
Maureen Monroe Brady J’77 Carol Dill Burke J’76 Stephanie Kolencik Busch J’79 Jane Ruvolo Dydo N’71 Sherrie McAdams Gorczyca J’82 Joan Jereb Heffernan J’78 Maureen Middaugh Keane J’79 Josette Daum Kramer J’79 Mary Eileen Barrett Kramer J’79 Deborah Nolan Kuzma J’83 Theresa Tousley Lozinski J’78 Jennifer Markey Lyons J’89 Rose Marie Forrest McGlynn J’76 Adriana Telishewsky Mironovich N’72 Amy Diaguila Munday J’76 Cynthia Sinclair Nagle J’79 Kelly Delaney O’Malley J’78 Maria Schnell Occhionero N’79 Eileen Rees Papotto J’87 Patricia O’Brien Parente J’83 Shelly Ann Dukes Piecuch J’83 Marcia Rocco Rahman J’81 Michelle Radeff Rosepal J’83 Margaret Smith Roudebush J’79 Sharon Vahar Schnupp N’79 Rita Minasola Semidey J’83 Kathleen M. White Smith J’82 Cynthia Soos J’85 Ann Fox Stefancin J’80 Catherine Waters Kratt J’87
GRANDMOTHER Eleanor Graven Gipper J’52
Betty Gideon Dantio J’49 Moira O’Connell Malady J’48 Monica Bacha Peters J’59
Aileen Kelly Deegan J’36 Elizabeth Canty Kennedy J’53
June McNeeley Sheehe J’48, Carole Reitz O’Toole J’51 Patricia Mullen Rees J’58
Joan Wasmer Rawlings J’46
Gayle Johnson White J’58 Joyce Steigerwald York J’57
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here is my locker?” “What time do I eat lunch?” “How do I access my student e-mail account?” These are just a few of the questions freshmen had at the beginning of the 2007-08 school year. After only a few weeks, these questions were no longer concerns as thoughts turned to studying for tests, working on a variety of academic projects, anticipating Freshman Welcome, and getting involved in extracurricular activities. The arrival of the Saint Joseph Academy Class of 2011 had been eagerly anticipated. At the start of school, 179 freshmen joined nearly 500 sophomores, juniors and seniors to kick off the school year. As is customary of our current SJA community, these young ladies bring us diversity from nearly 50 elementary schools and 20 communities. Our newest Jaguars are from parishes and schools all over Greater Cleveland. Typical of our students, the incoming class has many legacy ties to the Academy. Students are considered “legacies” when they have a mother or grandmother that has graduated from either St. Therese, Nazareth, or Saint Joseph Academy. (The Legacy Connection for the Class of 2011 are shown at left.) The freshmen also have 54 siblings that preceded them at the Academy, including one freshman who will be the fifth sister to carry on the SJA tradition! It is both exciting and rewarding to see the Academy’s enrollment remain at full capacity. We credit our success to the coordinated efforts of our dedicated faculty, our welcoming and informative students, and our diligent administration and admissions team. The incoming class has settled in and is eager to continue learning from their teachers. We are confident that during their four years with us they will learn, grow and mature into women of faith with global perspectives. If you know of a young lady (grades 4-8) that may be interested in receiving information about the Academy, please contact Admissions at 216.251.4868. We would love to add her name to our mailing list and welcome her as part of a future SJA class!
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
L to R: Audrey Menard, Principal, Saint Joseph Academy; Mark Kuhn, Interim COO, Congregation of Saint Joseph; Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, President, Saint Joseph Academy; Linda Harvison and Jaqueline Labat, Principal and Assistant Principal, Saint Joseph Academy, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In Lyon, France at the CSJ Motherhouse.
SJA Leaders visit important CSJ Sites in France
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hen six women came together in 1650 to establish the Sisters of Saint Joseph, little did they imagine that their “little design”, as Father Jean Pierre Medaille called it, would be alive and well 357 years later at the Academy that bears the name of our patron, Saint Joseph Academy here in Cleveland. In October this year, President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71 and Principal Audrey Menard participated in the inaugural conference in Le Puy, France for lay leaders of various institutions founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Saint Joseph. The conference was hosted at the International Center of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, which was established in 2002 to bring together the various congregations around the world. The Congregation of Saint Joseph includes nearly 14,000 vowed religious women around the globe, living and serving God and the “dear neighbor” in over 53 countries. Three Sisters staff the Centre and it was their vision to bring this conference to life. Eleven men and women from across the United States and Canada were together for one week in Le Puy, France, the city where the Congregation of Saint Joseph was founded in 1650. The week-long conference was focused on the charism and spirituality of the Sisters, and included visiting the historic sites related to the earliest days of the Congregation.
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
“It was a wonderful combination of classroom instruction, reflection, sharing and prayer,” said Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71. “I was particularly moved by the study of the founding documents, written by Father Jean Pierre Medaille, S.J. It is clear that the spirituality of the Sisters of Saint Joseph flows out of the Ignatian spirituality, given the Jesuit influence of Father Medaille. It was inspiring to see the original documents from the seventeenth century, when we toured the archives of the Congregation,” she continued. For Principal Audrey Menard, the conference was very moving. “I particularly enjoyed our visit to Lyon and the rooms of Mother Saint John Fontbonne. Just being there, I felt her presence with us.” It was Mother Saint John Fontbonne who re-founded the Congregation of Saint Joseph in 1808, after the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror. During that revolutionary period in France, the government disbanded all religious orders, although many continued to meet in secret. The Congregation flourished under the direction of Mother Saint John Fontbonne. It was Mother Saint John who sent six Sisters to the New World in 1836, at the request of the bishop of Saint Louis, Missouri. The entourage included two of Mother Saint John’s own nieces. This Congregation later spread to Ohio in 1872, and established our
beloved Academy in 1890. “What incredible women of faith they were,” Mrs. Menard reflected. It is in the founding documents of the Congregation of Saint Joseph that we find the mission of unity that is at the heart of their charism. “We find God in serving our ‘dear neighbor’ and in being in relationship with every neighbor without distinction, in the ordinary circumstances of life,” said Mrs. Corrigan-Davis. “That is why we have adopted the theme of ‘Serving Our Dear Neighbor’ for this academic year,” she explained. “That neighbor may be someone we serve at a homeless shelter, on a mission trip, or by being truly present to another student in our school. There are endless opportunities to serve our dear neighbor on a daily basis,” she explained. Among the other participants in the conference in France were the principal and assistant principal of Saint Joseph’s Academy in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. “Sharing such an incredible experience with Principal Linda Harvison was truly a gift,” said Mrs. Menard. “Since we are both ministries of the new Congregation of Saint Joseph, we are truly ‘sister schools.’ We already have ideas about how the two Academies can work together to have the charism of the Congregation of Saint Joseph come alive in our students,” continued Mrs. Menard.
Academy New Faces At The
New Faculty & Staff
Providing a 21st century education requires teachers who continue to challenge every student to work to the best of her ability. This school year, we have added a number of new faculty who are doing just that, whether they are teaching Mandarin Chinese, Economics or Honors History. Ms. Carla Benegalija
Sr. Theresa Hafner, CSJ
Mrs. Jessica Carny
Ms. Sydney Kalnay
Spanish BA in Spanish, Cleveland State University MA in Spanish, Cleveland State University Graduate Courses, Universidad Internacional, Mexico Science, Chemistry and Physical Science BS Cleveland State University “The students and faculty are are extremely helpful to new teachers. I feel very welcomed at Saint Joseph Academy.”
Mrs. Kathryn Comar
Language and Learning I&II BA in Special Education, Western Michigan University MA in Reading Education, Bowling Green State University “If I had to choose one it would be at SJA I can incorporate my love for God with my passion for education to help teach the girls.”
Theology and Campus Ministry BA in Religious Studies, John Carroll University “I am excited about being at SJA to carry on the mission and charism of the Sisters.” Web Design, Digital Photography and Microsoft Office BA in Design and Communication, Sarah Lawrence College MFA in Screen Writing, York University “I love seeing the phenomenal design work that the students accomplish in my classes.”
Mrs. Molly Krisy
Government and Economics, Contemporary World Studies and Model UN BS, Purdue University MA in Education, Baldwin Wallace College “I really enjoy the amazing people I work with! What a great group of professional educators!”
Technology Director An important component of a 21st century education is technology. Smart boards in classrooms, special programs like PowerSchool and Naviance that increase communication and opportunities between parent, student and the faculty and staff. “These are the new opportunities we have to interact with our students and parents, allowing technology to empower them,” according to Jeff Ahrendt our new Technology Director. Jeff comes to us from a similar position with the Cleveland Heights/ University Heights School system. He has a BS from Stonehill College in Massachusetts, a BS from Kent State and a Masters in Education from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Principal Audrey Menard said, “ we are pleased to have a person of Jeff’s qualifications with us.”
Ms. Elizabeth Onusko
British Literature and World Literature BA & MA in English, Fordham University, MFA in Poetry, Sarah Lawrence College “I really enjoy teaching in the school where my grandmothers, mother, aunts and cousins attended.” Daughter of Ann Dambach Onusko J’71, Granddaughter of Mary Slattery Dambach-Rooney J’47
Mr. Nick Roaldi
History/ Honors US History and Vietnam/Holocaust BA in Finance from the University of Notre Dame, MA in Education, Ursuline College “The students at Saint Joseph Academy bring a great attitude to the classroom. It makes my job a lot of fun.”
Dr. Johnathon Setliff, Ph.D.
Government and AP Government BA in Communication Studies, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University MA in American History, Virginia Commonwealth University Ph.D. American History, University of Maryland
Ms. Annmarie Thomas
Algebra and Geometry BA Math, Cleveland State University MA in Education, Cleveland State University “Everyone here is dedicated to providing the best educational opportunity for the young women at SJA.”
Xinming Tong
Mandarin Chinese and Culture BA in English, Changchun Normal University “My favorite part about teaching at the Academy is the girls!”
Director Of Communications & Public Relations Ronald Perger has joined Saint Joseph Academy as the new Director of Communication & Public Relations. “We are very pleased to have someone with Ron’s expertise in advertising and public relations combined with his advancement experience join our team,” said Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, President of Saint Joseph Academy. Ron has been involved in advertising and public relations for over 25 years. Most recently, he served in a similar post at St. Edward High School. He is a graduate of Cooper School of Art and has a BA in Art & Communication and an MA in Communication from Cleveland State University. In addition, Mr. Perger is a member of International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) and a Board member of the Cleveland State University Alumni Association. Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Sports Cross Country finishes 11th at State Tennis Overall, this season was a very successful one. It started very well as we repeated as Lakewood Doubles Tournament Champions. As the season went on, we faced some difficult 3-2 losses that could have easily been 3-2 victories. However, these losses made us stronger as a team and furthered our ability to compete in pressure situations. One of the highlights of our season was our 3-2 victory over a very strong Notre Dame Cathedral Latin team. At the sectional tournament, the doubles tandem of senior Bethany Halusker and junior Michelle Kahl were one point away from being the first district qualifiers in SJA history. The girls had a successful tournament, winning three rounds before losing a nail-biter to Westlake. We look forward to the challenges of next season.
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his fall, the Cross Country team had another successful season despite the rigorous schedule that took them to Dayton, Youngstown, and Kalamazoo, MI among other places. They have been consistently ranked as one of the top 15 teams in the state by the Coach’s Poll and have beaten a handful of teams from the top ten, not to mention narrowly losing to the #1 team in the state by one point at the All-Catholic meet. In Michigan, the team defeated last year’s Ohio state champion team, Cincinnati St. Ursula. October was a busy month for the Cross Country team. They began the month by placing 7th out of 38 teams at the Portage
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Michigan Invitational. The following week they placed 1st and 2nd out of four teams at the Sim Earich Invitational they went on to place 2nd in the Districts and 3rd in the Regionals to qualifiy for states. At the state meet they placed 11th in the state. What a great season! The team has had three different girls be the first Jaguar to cross the finish line in different meets, juniors Kristin Karn and Kelly Gallagher, and senior Kenzie Bova. The rest of the varsity has been made up of seniors Rachel Borowski and Jordan Daugherty, junior Melissa Bresnahan, and sophomores Gabby Kreuz and Taylor Whisler.
Golf Highlights of the year include finishing 2nd in our first appearance at the Edison Invitational and also for the second year in a row, our 2nd place finish at the Westlake Invitational. Our fourth place finish at the Laurel Tournament (Canterbury Invitational) was a good overall showing behind Walsh, Magnificat and Hathaway Brown. The teams 12-5 overall record was a great improvement over the 2006 season. Our match against St. Vincent St. Mary the team shot a total of 148 at The Links, where 5 out of 6 girls shot in the 30’s. But the biggest highlight of the 2007 season was finishing fourth at Sectionals and qualifying for Districts for the first time!
Volleyball This year was another successful season for the varsity Volleyball team. As we began the season, you could say that we were in a rebuilding year with many of our players having little varsity playing experience. Throughout the year, we continued to show improvements and growth ending with a 12-12 record. Looking back on that record, there were some huge accomplishments due to the fact that we played 10 different teams that were ranked in the state and 2 of these teams we had to play twice, beating both of them each time. Overall, this team showed tremendous heart all year, never giving up and fighting till the last point.
Senior Co-Captain Donna Friedman sets up for a kick.
Soccer This year’s Soccer team was lead by nine seniors. We returned all four of our starting defensive players. These players included seniors Natalie Kaletta, Emma Beno, Katie Bajorek and junior Elizabeth Wagner. The team was led by captains Emma Beno, Donna Friedman, Eleanore Hilow, and Elizabeth Wagner. Junior Jessica Gawthrop was the team leading scorer with seven goals for the year, finishing just one goal shy of the single season third place record of eight. The highlight of the season was the win over Olmsted Falls. The game was won in the final thirty seconds of play when senior midfielder Donna Friedman found sophomore Mary Maline, who chipped a
shot just over the goal keeper’s hands for the game winner. The loss of nine seniors will be softened by an incoming class of freshman from this year that included goal keeper Sam Zogheib and midfielder Jackie Bova, as well as a number of freshman players that developed their skills at the junior varsity level. Zogheib started 8 games and played 17 halves at the Varsity level and Bova was the only player of nineteen to start all sixteen games and play thirty-two halves. We are sad to see our seniors depart and will miss them dearly however, the future is bright for the Jaguars. Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Alumnae Spotlight: Joyce Needham N’73
Maureen McCafferty Arbeznik J’69 It was Maureen’s son Dan, a then-17 year-old student at St. Ignatius, who planted the seed. On Mother’s Day in 1999, her son showed her a notice in the church bulletin about their parish, St. Luke’s, looking for a principal. “He said, ‘Mom, I think you’d be good at that,’ “ she recalls. Having left education years earlier to raise her four children, Maureen brushed aside the comment, but her tenacious teenager sat by her later that day to reiterate his opinion. “Dan wasn’t the kind of kid to say something like that,” she says. “Looking back, I see it as the hand of God.” Maureen enrolled in Cleveland State University’s Masters program for educational administration and took a position as a teacher at St. Luke’s. “I came back with the enthusiasm of a rookie but with the wisdom of a middle-age woman,” she says. Eight years after that conversation with her son, Maureen is now in her second year as the principal of Lakewood Catholic Academy, which opened three years ago. She calls herself a ‘school person’. “The environment is teeming with life, and kids are such an upper,” she says. Going from teaching to administration was a process. “You go through a selfrealization period as you get older and reflect on who you are,” she says. As she looked back, Maureen saw that she demonstrated leadership as early on as high school, taking on roles such as Student Council president and class president. Once she became a mother, she would always end up as the president of whatever organization she joined. Getting Lakewood Catholic Academy up and running – and making it a vibrant, progressive, healthy institution – is a priority. “It’s my calling,” says Maureen of her role in education. “These are the talents God 10
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
gave me, and I consider myself His instrument.” Maureen credits SJA with fostering her leadership skills. “I really gained a sense of self-assurance,” she says. “I wouldn’t have had that armor if I hadn’t spent four years there.” Sr. Elizabeth Joyce, who taught French, was the teacher who was most influential to Maureen. “Even though I was scared to death of her,” she admits. It was under Sister Elizabeth’s tutelage that Maureen fell in love with the French language and culture. “I vacation in France, decorate my home and office with French themes, love French cooking,” she says. In her junior year at Xavier University, she won a Fredin Scholarship, which awarded her a year studying abroad at the Sorbonne, all expenses paid. “It was a life-changing experience,” she recalls. (Son Dan also won a Fredin Scholarship while in college.) Maureen remembers her alma mater as a happy place where she wanted to spend time. “I felt very at home there – loved and protected by the nuns,” she says. “The teachers took time with you and prepared you well for college. And I made some wonderful friends.” In fact, her closest friends today are still her high school friends. “And they are all accomplished professionals,” she says proudly. Maureen has been married 32 years to Gary, an assistant U.S. attorney. They have four children: Brigid, 28, a teacher in Olmsted Falls and SJA grad; Dan, 26, a Latin teacher at St. Ignatius; Sean, 24, who owns a computer company; and Caitrin, 21, who attends Ohio State University and is majoring in nursing.
Creative enthusiasm is what Joyce brings to her profession. “I love what I do,” she says of her role as principal at St. Christopher in Rocky River, where she has been for the last two years. She’s also held principal positions at St. Ignatius of Antioch and St. Pat’s of West Park. She had been teaching for 13 years in Catholic schools when an associate pastor, Fr. John Adelaar, suggested her leadership skills would benefit the school in an administrative capacity. His encouragement was enough to send her back to school for a Masters degree. “I really liked teaching, so I wasn’t sure about administration,” she says. Even after becoming a principal, she substituted and taught religion classes. “I still want that energy of being around the kids,” she says. Joyce holds a dual degree in elementary education and special education from Kent State University. As an educator, she
Eileen Mangan Stull J’74
Divine intervention in a grocery store? Eileen Stull is sure of it. She was a principal in a Cleveland elementary school besieged by problems. A new administration was in place, and she wondered where she’d end up within the district. A friend suggested a visit to the Poor Clare nuns for some guidance. Instead, she
Elementary School Principals believes any child can succeed in school if the right person helps them. The special ed curriculum at Kent taught her about “multiple intelligence”, which refers to the different ways people learn – such as through music, orally or socially. So she actively finds out the learning styles of her students – in addition to their names, family background and outside activities. “It all comes down to helping the kids,” Joyce says. She knows hers can be a lonely job. “You’ll not always take the popular route,” she says. “So it’s important to be very sure of who you are and what you want.” It was the nuns at Nazareth Academy who instilled in Joyce a strong sense of self. “They were so far ahead of their time,” she says. “They taught us to know who we were as women – to have a mission and be aware of our skills.” She remembers several teachers as being particularly influential. “Sister Marie Koeth, CSJ, was my first homeroom teacher and
French teacher,” she recalls. “She was the first one I met in high school who made me feel comfortable. She was always smiling.” Ruth Koehl J’54 pushed her to do more and try new things. “She wouldn’t accept any of my excuses,” says Joyce with a chuckle. And her physical education teacher, Miss Terry Singleton, gave her responsibilities and made things fun: “She involved me in Gym Leaders, so I got to help with the freshman and sophomore classes, pull out equipment, lead classes, and plan special sporting events outside of school.” She recalls when the school’s administration went from a single nun administrator to a team administration approach. “It was pretty progressive,” Joyce says. Taking a cue from that, she introduced Professional Leadership teams in her schools. She asked the teachers to choose a coordinator from each teaching level (primary, intermediate, junior high) who
planned a trip to Ireland for some rest and introspection. Not long afterwards, Eileen encountered a Poor Clare nun in the parking lot of the grocery store. After picking up numerous items, she headed to the checkout line, where she found the nun also waiting, carrying only a half-gallon of ice cream. She told the nun of her situation, and the nun advised her to go to Ireland and assured her she’d soon know God’s plan. Eileen has been principal at Louisa May Alcott School, where she has now been for the past two years. It was the only school in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District to have gotten a rating of Excellent from the state this year. A smaller school in a close-knit community, it has great teachers, parents, students and significantly less discipline problems. She’s been a principal for six years, an assistant principal for three years, and a teacher for 21 years. “I love my job,” she says. “I love to get up and go to school every day.” The oldest of seven, Eileen was around kids all her life. “I took care of my younger siblings, I babysat to pay for things,” she
says. “I knew I needed to be around kids.” She went to Ursuline College and got her teaching certificate. With the encouragement of two different principals, she began taking classes for a Masters of Administration and Supervision, which she earned in 1998. “I knew I could touch the lives of more children as a principal,” she says. She describes herself as fair, empathetic, informal (she invites everyone, including adult former students, to call her “Eileen”), and giving. She also considers herself a good academic coach and very approachable. According to Eileen, a successful principal has thick skin and a really big heart. “You have to be a good, reflective listener and non-judgmental,” she says. “Kids will do anything if they know you truly care about them and you’ll listen to them.” She adds: “Our job as educators is to give children confidence that they can do anything. We need to give them big goals and lots of hope so they’ll feel success and believe in themselves.” Eileen credits the CSJ nuns with giving her the things she needed to believe in
would represent the teachers’ issues and concerns and report to Joyce on them. “It brings full circle the encouragement Fr. Adelaar had given to me,” she says. “An invitation to leadership is something that should be passed along.” Joyce enjoys reading and traveling. Her last trip was to Scotland this summer. In 1995 she traveled to El Salvador and Guatemala to visit an Ursuline nun who had once been her principal. She also wanted to see the diocesan missionary team from Cleveland. “At one time I had wanted to do missionary work,” she says. “Until I realized I could do that right here in Cleveland working in the schools.” herself, thus becoming the person and principal she is today: Sister Hope Greener “taught me to understand poverty and how to deal with it.” Renee Krisko J’60 “gave me back the gift of believing I was smart.” Sister Nancy Conway J’65 “taught me what it was like to have heart and feel loved.” Janice Sinclair N’62 “helped me to grow and mature during those tough teen years.” Sister Donna Emerson J’54 “helped me to learn the art of public speaking.” Sister Catherine Pinkerton J’39 “was our principal, and she taught me sophistication.” Eileen has three children – Liam, 26, who works for Forest City Enterprises; Catherine, 24, who is a kindergarten teacher in St. John in the Virgin Islands; and Fiona, who’s 12 and attends St. Mel’s. In her spare time, she teaches classes at Burke School of Irish Dance and coordinates Junior Marching Units for the West Side Irish American Club.
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
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Development A Celebration of Success
Celebrating the successful completion of the Campaign for Saint Joseph Academy which raised over $4 Million for the endowment fund was a wonderful event. On a cool late summer morning almost 300 people gathered for Mass in the auditorium followed by a champagne brunch. Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71 President of the school told how at the beginning of the campaign she was a co-chair and by the end of the campaign she was president of the school. She thanked fellow co-chairs Mary Lou Vrnak Stricklin J’61 and Nancy Wilkes McCann J’59 for all of their help in ensuring the success of the campaign. In addition, Mary Ann singled out the generosity of Martha Horvath T’47 whose bequest of over $1 million put the campaign over the top. Gene Baxendale, Chair of the Board of Directors, ended the celebration by giving the audience a glimpse into the future plans of the Academy from the site master planning committee. Early ideas involve the renovation of the current building and expansion of the cafeteria, auditorium and classroom space, along with a proposed new media center and administrative offices.
L to R: Campaign Co-Chair and President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, Board of Directors Chair Gene Baxendale, and Campaign Co-Chair Mary Lou Stricklin J’61.
SJA Welcomes New Board Members Gene Baxendale, Board Chair and Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, President of Saint Joseph Academy welcomed seven new board members to the August retreat. “These men and women are committed to our mission and to moving the Academy forward in the upcoming years,” said Gene when introducing them at the retreat. The new members are; Rosemary Breehl President of Breehl, Traynor & Zehe Nancy Slominsky Charney J’77 President, NS Charney & Associates Dominic Gonnella Tax Partner, North Central Region, Deloitte Father of Madie J’10 Michael Lonsway, CPA Vice President, Strategy & Investment Management, Forest City Enterprises, Inc. Spouse of - Lisa Adkins Lonsway J’84
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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Mary Grace Pattison Managing Director, NatCity Investments, Inc. Nancy Rodeno Vice President, Organizational Effectiveness, The Sherwin Williams Company Daria Roebuck J’75 Vice President, Human Resources, ERICO International, Inc.
Ann Quinn Doran J’48 Planned Giving Volunteer
After retiring for a third time, Ann Quinn Doran J’48 agreed to volunteer some of her free time helping her alma mater promote planned giving. “I am at the right point in my life to approach fellow alumnae to explain the importance of planning ahead,” Ann explained. Ann currently volunteers every Monday. If you are interested in learning more about planned giving, give Ann a call at 216.251.6788 ext 254. “Saint Joseph Academy has always held a special place in my heart,” said Ann.
Fontbonne Legacy Society Continues to Grow
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arlier this year, Saint Joseph Academy received a generous bequest from Martha Horvath T’47. It was indeed an honorand a surprise! The Academy was unaware that Miss Horvath had included us in her will. This wonderful gift prompted us to reflect on the fact that perhaps other alumnae and friends may indeed have provided for Saint Joseph Academy in their estate plans. It is our goal to ensure all donors, current or future, are provided appropriate recognition for their philanthropy. The Fontbonne Legacy Society is named in honor of Mother Saint John Fontbonne. It was Mother Saint John who refounded the Congregation of Saint Joseph in
1808 after the French Revolution and later sent the first six Sisters of Saint Joseph to America in 1836, including two of her nieces. This Fontbonne Legacy Society allows us to recognize our donors who have provided for the Academy now during their lifetime. We invite you to contact the Development Office at 216.671.0166 if you are considering the opportunity for a legacy gift and are unsure how to go about establishing one. We would also like to know if you have provided for Saint Joseph Academy in your estate plans so that we can thank you now for a gift that will have a direct impact on our future. Mother Saint John Fontbonne
2007-2008 Annual Fund Appeal Recently you received your 2007-2008 Annual Fund appeal in the mail. It is our hope that when you read this issue of UPDATE and your appeal letter, you will see the amazing things our young women are able to experience and accomplish because of your continued generosity to the annual fund. Your support allows us to continue the mission of Saint Joseph Academy and charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph who founded the Academy nearly 120 years ago. Your annual gift is a vote of confidence in helping to maintain the excellent educational experiences in the rich tradition of the Academy. Annual giving is the financial lifeblood of
any school. It sustains programs and activities that are not covered by tuition. Simply, annual giving is the best way possible for alumnae, parents, grandparents, parents of alumnae, and friends to help make a difference in the future of Saint Joseph Academy. At a time when there are many requests for your charitable support, you may ask: Why Saint Joseph Academy? In a school with our unique mission and charism, your gift to Saint Joseph Academy will truly make a difference and keep the Academy accessible to young women of diverse backgrounds. Remember, it’s a great time to get that year-end tax deduction.
New Director of Development Named Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, President of Saint Joseph Academy welcomed Kathy Robinson to school by touting her wellrounded and diverse development experience. “Kathy is the person we need in order to continue to grow our annual fund and to embark on a capital campaign.” She began her development career path at the Case Western Reserve University in the late 80s, working in the cultural, social service, health and education arenas, at various locations. Most recently, Kathy was at Case Western where she lead the Donor Relations and Stewardship Department for the university and recently began to develop a Parent Giving Program. Kathy has a number of family members who are Saint Joseph Academy graduates, including numerous cousins and her aunt. In addition, her uncle’s sister, the late Sister Saint George, was a member of the Congregation of St. Joseph.
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
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Alumnae Celebrate Reunions
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ore than 200 alumnae from classes ending in “2” or “7”
Grand Reunion 2007
enjoyed the opportunity to visit SJA and spend time with their classmates and former teachers at the 2007 Grand
Reunion. Twenty-seven alums came from out of state (17 different states) with “Bunny” Hogan Newman J’57 traveling the farthest
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from San Diego, California. Dorothy Anderson Emerson J’32 and Sr. Angela Kelly, CSJ J’32 both from the class of 1932 attended to celebrate the 75 year anniversary of their graduation, and 6 members of the class of 1937 also attended to celebrate their 70 year anniversary. There were several mother-daughter combinations and pairs of sisters among the attendees. Fr. John Libens, SJ was the celebrant for our reunion Mass at SJA. Following Mass, the attendees processed outside
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to bless a beautiful tree planted in honor of the reunion classes. It was a beautiful sight to see alumnae of all ages participating in blessing the tree and joining in the singing of our Alma Mater. Dinner followed at Wagner’s Country Inn with much more time to reminisce and an opportunity to honor the members of the class of 1957 as they celebrated 50 years since their graduation. 1947
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Calling all alumnae who graduated in a year ending in “3” or “8”. Mark you calendar now for Grand Reunion 2008 - October 11, 2008!
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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Nazareth Academy 50 Year Anniversary Celebration
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n September 9, 2007 almost 100 Nazareth alumnae, guests and 22 former Nazareth faculty members gathered to celebrate the 50 year anniversary of the Founding of Nazareth Academy in 1957. There were several Nazareth alumnae, teachers, and friends who participated in the Mass in a special way. Fr. Joseph McNulty was the celebrant; Sr. Mary Schrader, CSJ J’61 (Sr. Catherine Mary) was the homilist; the music was led by a group of Nazareth alumnae under the direction of Sr. Thelma Gerhart, CSJ (Sr. Celestia); and the Offertory gifts were presented by Sr. Mary Jane Masterson, CSJ J’46 (Sr. Judith), CSJ and Jeanette Heisey Truskot (Sr. Norma). Mary Ann Corrigan-
Saint Therese Academy Luncheon
Davis J’71 greeted the Nazareth alumnae and read a letter sent by Sr. Jeanne Cmolik, CSJ N’61 who is a member of the leadership team of the newly reconfigured Congregation of St. Joseph. Sr. Jeanne sent her good wishes and informed us that there are 3 high schools sponsored by the new CSJ Congregation. One of them, in LaGrange, Illinois, is called Nazareth! Following Mass, they attended a champagne reception. Many enjoyed the pictures, yearbooks, and other Nazareth memorabilia which were on display at the reception. As the Nazareth Academy Alma Mater was sung at Mass, it was clear that the spirit of Nazareth lives on!
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Alumnae of Saint Therese Academy gathered on September 26, 2007 at River’s Edge (CSJ Motherhouse) to enjoy a delicious luncheon and worship together at a Mass which was celebrated by Fr. James Becherer for all the alumnae of Saint Therese Academy. These faithful alumnae shared stories of their days at STA, updated their friends on their lives today, enjoyed a performance by Cecilia’s Song (SJA’s acclaimed a cappella singing group) and then were joined by many of the CSJ sisters for Mass. As the attendees were leaving, they were already looking forward to next year’s luncheon.
1933, 1938, 1943, 1948, 1953, 1958, 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003.
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
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Alumnae NEWS SJA President Mary Ann Corrigan– Davis J’71 Wins Two Prestigious Awards
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ary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, President of Saint Joseph Academy in Cleveland, Ohio was the recipient of two prestigious awards recently. The 2007 Inside Business Magazine Athena Award, which honors those who help women reach their full leadership potential, demonstrate creativity and initiative in their professions and improve the quality of life for others in the community. Mary Ann was honored at the annual celebration at Landerhaven. She was chosen from a group of over fifty nominees and 11 finalists. Gene Baxendale, President of Osborn Engineering and Chairman of the Academy Board of Directors said, “We are so proud of Mary Ann. The qualities honored by this award are what make her such an outstanding President of Saint Joseph Academy. They are also the qualities we work to instill in our young women.”
Student Council Officers Shannon Tomek J’08, Angeline Chuppa J’08, Kenzie Bora J’08, and Lauren Wasil J’08, celebrate with Mrs. Corrigan-Davis.
Mary Ann was also honored by American Greetings Corporation with a lifetime achievement award as part of their corporate 100th anniversary celebration. Retired officers from around the world voted on the awardees. Mary Ann has been President of Saint Joseph Academy since 2006. Previously she had a 27-year career with American Greetings, the last eight as senior vicepresident of the company. With a strong business background and a deep understanding of the Academy’s traditions
and mission, Mary Ann is particularly interested in expanding the global perspective of the young women at the school. Due to her extensive international business background, providing the students with the tools that will prepare them well for the 21st century is her passion. Of her current position as President of Saint Joseph Academy, she says, “I am here to encourage the young women to set their sights high and dream big and to encourage them that they can do it!”
Alumnae Gather In Bean Town Attending a seminar in early July in Boston provided the opportunity for Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, Mary Ann Fischer J’66, and Ron Perger to visit some
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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
alums who live in the area. Pictured at right are Martha Grodhaus Smith N’63, Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71, Mary Ann Fischer J’66, and Nora Hughes J’88.
Pictured below are Mary Ann CorriganDavis J’71, Sheila Donnelly J’66, and Mary Ann Fischer J’66.
Legacy Breakfasts Celebrate Tradition This school year Saint Joseph Academy has continued the tradition of their Legacy Breakfasts for students whose moms and grandmothers have attended the Academy. Since the beginning of the school year there have been two breakfasts, one for freshman and one for seniors, with two more planned. At each breakfast they were welcomed by Mary Ann Fischer J’66 Director of Alumnae and Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71 President of the school. Mary Ann Fischer remarked, “This is a wonderful program for everyone, the girls see that the generations of women in their own families who have walked the same hallways and sat in the same classrooms. It is a definite connection.”
Legacy Breakfast Attendees, Kneeling L to R: Mary Wallenhorst J’08, Katie Bajorek J’08, Maggie Barrett J’08, Christine Bartholomew J’08, Kathlee Williams J’08, Bridget Smith J’08, and Emily Dantio J’08. Seated L to R: Sara Dalton J’08, Margaret McNeeley Harkness J’60, Barbara Goldbach Lesniak J’53, Mary Hagan Barrett J’42, Delores Oleksiak, and Patricia Shannon Campbell J’50. Standing L to R: Britany Leahy J’08, Mary Pat Calvey Smith J’77, Eileen Reynolds Wallenhorst J’70, Laura Stanek Bajorek J’79, Valerie Szafran Leahy J’83, Jaqueline Virovec Palguta N’79, Faye Oleksiak Bartholomew N’79, Susan Staufer Dantio N’72 and Amy Palguta J’08.
Golf Outing 2007
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ver 150 people enjoyed a perfect day for golf at Mallard Creek Golf Club in Columbia Station to help raise almost $10,000.00 for alumnae scholarships to SJA students! Golfers enjoyed 18 holes of golf, delicious food, and great prizes. Thanks to all who supported this special fundraising event! Jim Walters, Bill Fischer Jr., Bill Fischer Sr., and John Davis are all smiles after a good round of golf.
Betty Hjort, MaryAnn Fischer J’66, and Sara Lanzola J’98 kept things running smoothly.
Norris Brothers Co., Inc. Walter Martens & Sons Funeral Home Judge John J. Donnelly Dr. Casey O’Conor-Orthodontist Commissioner Jimmy Dimora Carey Funeral Home Dr. James Hovanec-Family Dentistry Infinity Construction Co., Inc. Cleveland Indians Congregation of Saint Joseph Westpark Dental Association, Inc. Lakewood Furnace Company Cindy Daney Brogan J’69 Frantz Ward LLP Chambers Funeral Home
Carl A. Hjort, III Esq. J. J. DeLong & Associates, Inc. Debbie Wolfe-Korce J’76 Stripmatic Products, Inc. Martin J. Keane Councilman Martin J. Sweeney & The Honorable Gerald Francis Sweeney Drs. Robert, Christopher, Jill Harter & Marilyn Boll Harter J’50 The Ohio State Lottery Mayor Frank G. Jackson Aluminum Coils, Inc. Mayor Eileen Birt Patton J’72 The Shamrock Companies N. S. Charney & Associates
Golf Outing 2007 Hole Sponsors: Cleveland Printwear Judge Colleen Conway Cooney & Mr. John G. Cooney Pavement Technology, Inc. Telefast Industries, Inc. The Alpha Group, Inc. Edible Arrangements Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis J’71 Sheriff Gerald T. McFaul SJA Summer Staff Kolick’s Jewelers Osborn Architects & Engineers Ebner & Rose Orthopedics Brennan’s Catering & Banquet Center Mike Mural Building Contractors Nowak Tour & Travel
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
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In
Memoriam The Alumnae Association wishes to recognize the following alumnae and family members of alumnae who have died recently, and to extend sincere sympathy to their families and friends. The following deceased are remembered at a Mass celebrated in the convent chapel on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month.
Alice Hill Gunderman J’35 Dolores Rosfelder McGorray J’35 Mary Virginia Bates Bailey J’36 Charlotte Reidy McGraw J’36 Mary Gallagher Cooney J’38 Elizabeth Malone Stack J’39 Margaret Novick Whelan J’39 Lois Kroeger McNally J’42 Ruth Polomsky Krueger J’45 Mary C. “Maureen” Cusick Michaud J’46 Patricia Halloran Pattison J’48 Gladys DuCly Schreiber J’48 Rita Nowak Berry T’48 Joan Donnelly Rusk J’49 Marilyn Westfall Aerni J’50 Lenore Gallagher Greller J’51 Margaret Boehnlein Miller J’55 Gayle Johnson White J’58 Rosemary Carleton Pickford N’64 Barbara Calabrese Doyle J’65 Joan Brezine Kerber J’65 Patricia Healy Reinhard N’68 Denise Berry N’70 Elaine Boutton-Peth N’70 Joyce Furmanek Holden N’70
Marie Reidy Slife J’34, Jane Reidy Obringer J’38, Eileen Reidy Haas J’41, and Anne Reidy Sweeney J’44 on the death of their sister, Charlotte Reidy McGraw J’36. Corinne Zurlinden Ward J’36 on the death of her son and Kate Ward Terry J’67, Patricia Ward Doheny J’69, and Sharon Ward Rieman J’72 on the death of their brother, Richard Ward. Marian Smith Plagman J’37 on the death of her husband, Donald Plagman. Ruth Rosfelder J’38 on the death of her sister, Dolores Rosfelder McGorray J’35. Mercedes Bauers Hronek J’42 on the death of her husband, James Hronek.
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Anna Mae Conway Owens J’44, Catherine Conway Koch J’47, and Sr. Patricia Conway, OCD J’49 on the death of their sister, Agnes Ussai. Jean Kroeger O’Bryan J’45 on the death of her sister, Lois Kroeger McNally J’42. Noreen Norris Zak J’45 on the death of her husband, Joseph Zak, Sr. Marian Kilbane-Flash J’46 on the death of her husband, Walter Flash. Dorothy Lash J’47 on the death of her sister, Agnes Lash. Mary Jo Potts Moran J’47 on the death of her husband, John Moran. Mildred Boomer Wydick J’47 on the death of her husband, Rudolph Wydick. Marilyn Polomsky Hirka J’48 on the death of her sister, Ruth Polomsky Krueger J’45. Patricia Cusick J’49 and Ann Cusick Finnegan J’53 on the death of their sister, Mary C. “Maureen” Cusick Michaud J’46. Jean Donnelly Armstrong J’49 and Sheila Donnelly J’66 on the death of their sister, Joan Donnelly Rusk J’49. Mary McQuaid Doyle J’50 on the death of her husband, William Doyle. Carolyn Halloran Murad J’51 on the death of her sister, Patricia Halloran Pattison J’48. Delores Kaspick Banach J’52 and Marilyn Kaspick Wilson J’54 on the death of their brother, Joseph Kaspick, Jr. Dolores Boehnlein Riegelmayer J’52 on the death of her sister, Margaret Boehnlein Miller J’55.
Annelieze Potting Sabo J’53 on the death of her son, Joseph Anthony Hugger. Mary Benedetto Musacchio J’57 on the death of her husband, Carl Musacchio. Maureen McCarthy Atzberger J’58, Karen McCarthy Kelley J’61, and Rosemary McCarthy Conway J’65 on the death of their father, Kenneth McCarthy. Mary Kozak Kovach J’56, Kathleen Kozak J’63, and Patricia Kozak, CSJ J’64 on the death of their brother, Tony Kozak. Barbara Richards Jedacek N’61 on the death of her father, Frank Richards. Mary Gunderman Chase J’62, Ruth Gunderman Scheib J’64, and Clare Gunderman Delventhal N’73 on the death of their mother, Alice Hill Gunderman J’35. Joan Carleton Terry N’62 on the death of her sister, Rosemary Carleton Pickford N’64. Mary Ann Brezine Lui J’63 and Virginia Brezine Cestaro J’72 on the death of their sister, Joan Brezine Kerber J’65. Barbara Caputo Bunch N’64 and Nancy Caputo Blum N’66 on the death of their mother, Mary Patricia Caputo. Carol Maschak Cooke J’65 on the death of her father, Joseph Maschak. Anne O’Heren Jakob J’65 on the death of her step-brother, Thomas Galvin. Susan Longauer Botos J’66 on the death of her father, Otto Longauer. Sandra Chmura Sajner N’67 on the death of her mother, Elizabeth Chmura.
Mary Jo Brennan Grossman J’68, Anne Brennan Raderstorf J’74, Maureen Brennan-Miller J’78, and Colleen Brennan O’Toole J’80 on the death of their father, Dr. John Brennan. Donna Fort Sand J’68 and Kathy Fort Boehm J’69 on the death of their father, Donald Fort. Barbara Bacik Friedl N’68 and Christine Bacik Ersland N’70 on the death of their mother, Rose Marie Bacik. Barbara Fuhs J’69 on the death of her mother, Martha Fuhs. Kathleen Lohn Gates J’69 on the death of her brother, James Lohn. Cindy Kalvitz Gilbert J’69 on the death of her mother, Cecelia Kalvitz.
Laura Knotts J’73 on the death of her brother, Charles Knotts, and on the death of her sister, Leslie Knotts. Leslie was a former faculty member at Saint Joseph Academy. Kathleen Gallagher Jeffries J’75 on the death of her father, Dr. Farrell Gallagher. Eileen Kelly J’77 and Margaret Kelly Gorbett J’78 on the death of their brother, William Kelly. Janet Furmanek Wiggins N’77 on the death of her sister, Joyce Furmanek Holden N’70. Tracie Aerni Chudowsky J’78, LuAnn Aerni Polito J’82, JoAnn Aerni Kahl J’82, Jacqueline Aerni Needles J’85, and Christi Aerni White J’93 on the death of their mother, Marilyn Westfall Aerni J’50.
Eileen Cramer Kovacik J’69 on the death of her mother, Ruth Cramer.
Kathryn Sweeny J’78, Mary Clare Sweeny Donnelly J’81, Margaret Sweeny J’83, and Joan Sweeny J’85 on the death of their mother, Mary Catherine Sweeny.
Rita Kustra Narramore N’69 on the death of her father, Chester Kustra.
Cynthia Sinclair Nagle J’79 on the death of her mother, Marie Sinclair.
Odette Jamiol Zakowski J’70 on the death of her father, Stanley Jamiol.
Kelly White Wencho J’80, Kathleen White Smith J’82, and Jean White Chalkwater J’91 on the death of their mother, Gayle Johnson White J’58.
Christine Bernosky Lindquist N’70 on the death of her husband and Margaret Lindquist Sibel N’69 on the death of her brother, Thomas Lindquist.
Eileen Nageotte Romansky J’86 on the death of her brother, Mark Nageotte.
Colleen Gannon Geondeff J’72 on the death of her husband, Van Geondeff.
Rachel Mihna J’03 on the death of her mother, Mary Mihna.
Maureen Halligan Meyer J’72 on the death of her mother, Mary Louise Halligan. Mary Louise was a former nurse and faculty member at Saint Joseph Academy.
Stephenie Kuklisin J’04 on the death of her mother, Julie Kuklisin.
Mary Louise Sheehan Halligan For nearly 20 years, Mary Lou Halligan taught health here at the Academy and spent the rest of her time in the clinic nursing students and faculty back to health. Mary Lou lost her battle with cancer in September. According to the many faculty members who knew her, she possessed incredible humor, a gentleness of spirit, a zest for life, and a deep devotion to her Catholic faith. During her time in the clinic, she saw many physical ailments but probably spent most of her time healing broken and confused hearts and spirits. Mary Lou also helped ignite a passion in the nursing and medical field and served as a mentor to many of our alumnae by her professional and personal example. She truly served her “dear neighbor.” In addition to her faithful service to Saint Joseph Academy for so many years, she was also an Associate of the Congregation of St. Joseph. She and her late husband Bob were members of Our Lady of Angels parish and lived in West Park for many years. She is survived by her three sons, Mark, Brian, and Kevin and her daughter Maureen Halligan Meyer J’72.
Jessica Mehaffey J’06 on the death of her father, Rex Allen Mehaffey.
Mary Brigid Campbell Fisher J’73 on the death of her brother, Peter Campbell. Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
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Beyonds Alumnae
1940s Marie Schneider Lee J’42 recently appeared in a “Shakespeare in the Park” production of All’s Well That Ends Well with the Vermont Theatre Company in Brattleboro, Vermont. The terrain surrounding the stage was hilly so fortunately Marie was able to play the Widow Capulet of Florence with a cane!
1950s Donna Rae Skovira Foran J’57 recently received the 2007 Teaching Excellence Award from Mount Mary College. Donna Rae has taught English Literature and Writing at Mount Mary and Marquette University for many years.
1960s Marianne Novy N’61 has written the book Reading Adoption: Family and Difference in Fiction and Drama, currently out in paperback. Marianne also recently organized a conference called “Encountering New Worlds of Adoption,” where scholars, writers, and activists from many different fields and countries discussed current issues in adoption. The conference was held in Pittsburgh, where Marianne has been teaching in the English Department of the University of Pittsburgh since 1971. Maureen McCafferty Arbeznik J’69 was honored recently by Lakewood Hospital as a Woman of Accomplishment. Maureen, who is the principal of Lakewood Catholic Academy, received the award at Lakewood’s annual Simply Women, Simply Wonderful event.
1970s Eileen Birt Patton J’72 was re-elected to a third term as mayor of Fairview Park, Ohio and for the second time ran unopposed.
1980s Cheryl Brady Strom J’87 discovered that there are SJA alums everywhere in the world. While temporarily living in Belgium this past summer, Cheryl was visiting with the mother of her six year old son’s playmate. They already knew that they were both from Cleveland, but imagine their surprise when they discovered that they both graduated 20 Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
The
from SJA only two years apart! Cheryl’s new friend is Kathleen Papenfoth Flores J’89. Kathleen has been living in Belgium with her husband and son for almost two years. Do you have a similar story? Please let us know if you have one to share!
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1990s Angela Sweeney J’90 has been transferred from the Reno/Tahoe area to Phoenix to work as Product Marketing Manager for Honeywell. Although Angela enjoys her “western” experience, she still cheers for the Indians and Browns. Ann Marie Fogarty J’91 graduated in 1996 with a degree in Dietetics. Currently working at the Cleveland Clinic as a Metabolic Support Clinician, Ann Marie recently received her second degree in Nursing from Cleveland State University. Lisa Noble J’91 graduated with honors from Cleveland State University in May of 2006 with a B.S. in Education. Lisa is now teaching in Nogales, Arizona located at the U.S.-Mexico border. Her students are helping her learn Spanish again! She is also enjoying the winter weather – no snow! Megan Pescho J’97 married Edward Joseph Nicolette on June 16, 2007. Megan’s matron of honor was Mary Beth Pescho Poole J’02 and her bridesmaid was Kerrie Tiller J’08. Elizabeth McKenna-Cloud J’99 graduated with her Doctor of Audiology degree from Kent State University on August 18, 2007. Liz is now a commissioned officer with the U.S. Air Force with the rank of Captain. She is serving in the Biomedical Sciences Corps. as an audiologist with the 59th Surgical Spec. Squadron at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas.
2000s Ashley Nemeh J’06 recently sang the National Anthem and “God Bless America” at Game #3 of the American League Championship Series at Jacobs Field. She received a standing ovation for her performance! Ashley is currently a student at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland.
Kellie Arendt Shaffer J’97 & Bob Shaffer a son, Arden Davis, born January 24, 2007 Kerstin Forkapa Broslawik J’98 & Benjamin Broslawik a daughter, Sadie Yvonne, born May 22, 2007 Erin Joecken Draves J’97 & Tim Draves a son, Scott Edward, born October 10, 2007 Sharon Leahy Mazur J’98 & Bill Mazur a son, Timothy Francis, born February 1, 2007 Molly McCann Gumucio & Alex Gumucio, a daughter, Eva Grace, born on August 31, 2007. Sarah Wadowick Soplata J’96 & Matt Soplata twins, Nicholas, born September 16, 2007 and Bernadette, born September 17, 2007
Young Alumnae Mass & Brunch Sunday, December 10 am at CSJ Worship Space
SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO
CELEBRATE THE ACADEMY 2008 TO BENEFIT SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY ACADEMIC INITIATIVES AND HONOR THE MEDAILLE SHIELD RECIPIENT
Sister Patricia Finn, CSJ SATURDAY THE TWENTY SIXTH OF JANUARY TWO THOUSAND AND EIGHT AT LA CENTRE CONFERENCE AND BANQUET FACILITY 25777 DETROIT RD. WESTLAKE, OHIO COCKTAILS AND SILENT AUCTION 6:00PM DINNER AND LIVE AUCTION 7:30PM COCKTAIL ATTIRE For more information or reservations contact Ron Perger at 216.619.1937
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
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Ahead Looking
“Jersey Boys” Theater Outing The Alumnae Office has a limited number of tickets to a performance of the current Broadway hit “Jersey Boys”. This performance is on Sunday evening, June 22, 2008 at 6:30pm at the State Theatre. Seating is in the mezzanine section. The cost per ticket is $80.00. Proceeds benefit the Alumnae Scholarship Fund. We anticipate this show to be a sell-out! Tickets will be assigned in the order in which reservations are received. Reservation forms went out to local alumnae in October. Some seats may still be available. Please call Betty Hjort in the Alumnae Office at 216-251-6788 Ext. 245 if you are interested.
Alumnae Hall of Fame 2008 The 2008 Alumnae Hall of Fame will take place on Sunday morning, April 13, 2008 at Saint Joseph Academy. Mass will be celebrated, followed by brunch and the awards ceremony. Classmates of the inductees will receive invitations. If you would like to attend and are not a classmate, please call the Alumnae Office. Prior to the event, much “behind the scenes” work went into the selection of the inductees for the Alumnae Hall of Fame. A committee of alums thoughtfully reviewed all nominations and ranked them according to a rubric that reflected the nomination criteria. This committee narrowed the choice to ten. A final selection committee then met to choose the honorees from the ten submitted by the pre-selection committee. The selection committees represented Saint Joseph, Nazareth, and Saint Therese Academies, the Alumnae Board, the Congregation of Saint Joseph, and the Alumnae Hall of Fame. Thanks to all who helped in the difficult job of choosing the best of the best! The 2008 Inductees:
Mary Berry Reynolds J’32 (posthumous) Felicia Petruziello, CSJ J’56 Rita Bontempo Thiron J’70 Mary Egan N’74 Linda Kane J’75
Alumnae Basketball Game 2008 The even year grads take on the odd year grads at the Annual Alumnae Basketball Game on Saturday, February 16, 2008. Donations at this event help fund the Don Kostell Memorial Scholarship. Anyone can participate, no matter what your skill level, and everyone is welcome to cheer on the players. The game is followed by a light lunch of pizza and pop. This is a free and fun event for all! Please call the Alumnae Office at 216-251-6788 Ext. 245 or Maryann Marek at Ext. 211 if you plan to play or attend.
Women’s Wellness Night Please plan to attend an evening devoted to women’s wellness issues on March 3, 2008 at Saint Joseph Academy. A light supper will be offered, followed by break-out sessions addressing the areas of physical well-being, spiritual well-being, and financial well-being. If you are interested in attending, please e-mail Betty Hjort at bhjort@sja1890.org for more information or a reservation form.
Alumnae Scholarship Luncheon 2008 The Tenth Annual Alumnae Scholarship Luncheon will be held on May 15, 2008. We are excited to announce a new location for this event – the Cleveland Yachting Club in Rocky River! This is a much anticipated event which includes a delicious luncheon, a fabulous Chinese raffle, entertainment, and more. Please plan to attend and bring a friend! All proceeds benefit the Alumnae Scholarship Fund. Please watch your mail for a reservation form for this popular event!
Parents of Alumnae: If this publication is addressed to your daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumnae Office at (216) 251-6788 X221, or write to us at 3430 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland, Ohio 44111. If you enjoy reading UPDATE please let us know. We’ll be glad to send a copy to her and continue sending a copy to you. Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Cleveland, OH Permit No. 912
Saint Joseph Academy 3430 Rocky River Drive Cleveland, Ohio 44111 www.sja1890.org
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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE