Tidings Fall 2017

tidings academy of the h oly ange l s

s p on s ore d by t h e s c h o o l s i s t e rs of n otre dame

fa l l 20 1 7

a p ub licat ion fo r alumn ae, pare nts and fr i e nd s

– Blessed Theresa of Jesus Gerhardinger

Congratulations to the 147 Angels in the Class of 2017 • accepted into Boston College, Columbia, Cornell, Georgetown, Notre Dame, NYU, Princeton, Stanford, UPenn & many more top tier colleges!

• SAT Mean Composite of 1848 – far exceeding State and National a verages • awarded

over $19 million in scholarships & grants

Discover the AHA Difference!

315 Hillside Avenue, Demarest, NJ 07627 | phone 201.768.7161

OPEN HOUSE

All- G irls H igh School

Sun, October 1st, 11am Mon, November 6th, 6pm

•9 3% AP Exam success rate • 75 Angels recognized as AP Scholars, including 1 National Scholar • 15 Angels named National Merit Scholars, including 4 National Merit Finalists • 41 President’s Awards for Educational Excellence

A GROWTH MINDSET EDUCATION

Please note some important changes to the application process: HOW TO APPLY All steps must be completed by the following dates: Early Application Deadline – November 1 (current 8th grade students only). Students who consider Academy of the Holy Angels her first or only choice are encouraged to apply Early Application.

Students who complete all of the outlined steps below by November 1 and sit for the SSAT on November 4, will have their application fee waived and the advantage of additional time for consultation with the Director of Admissions on the status of their application. Special considerations apply. Please visit www.holyangels.org/admissions.

Regular Application Deadline – December 1. For applicants who are applying to a broad range of schools that may include independent, public, magnet, boarding or other Catholic schools.

Students who complete the application process after the December 1st deadline must apply for the wait pool.

Applicants to 9th Grade are required to do the following: 1 Complete the appropriate Online Admissions Application and submit the non-refundable fee.

2 School Visit (Angel for the Day).

3 Transcripts and Standardized Test Scores. Transcripts must include grades from at least one marking period from the current academic year and grades from two years prior, along with attendance records, a grading key and the most recent standardized test scores, if available. Eighth grade applicants are not required to submit teacher recommendations or essays.

4E ntrance Exam - Please note that as of September 1, 2017, all applicants are required to take the Upper School Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) to apply for admission. AHA does not accept other tests in lieu of the SSAT, and only administers the SSAT on campus to students applying to AHA. Transfer Applicants are accepted for 9th and 10th grade only, during September and January semesters.

In addition to each of the steps above, transfer applicants are required to do the following: 5 Three teacher recommendations (English, math and one other) must be submitted. Recommendation forms must be downloaded at www.holyangels.org/admissions.

6 An interview with the Principal and Director of Admissions may also be required. You will be notified by phone should this requirement apply to you.

International Applicants may only apply for the fall semester of 9th or 10th grade. In addition to the appropriate requirements above, all international students are required to: 7 Take the TOEFL: https://www.ets.org/toefl. International students must have a solid working knowledge of the English language; a score of 21 or higher on all sections of the TOEFL is required for consideration. AHA does not accept other tests of English in lieu of the TOEFL. International students must meet all the standard criteria for enrollment in terms of scholastic and/or paperwork. Please visit www.holyangels.org/admissions to review these terms in detail.

tidings

p r e s i d e n t 's m e s s a g e

Volume XI, number 2

EDITORS Jillane Ferreira

Director of Communications jillane@holyangels.org

Dorrie Voulgaris

Director of Advancement

advancement@holyangels.org

Dear Friends of AHA,

Jennifer Crusco

Marketing Assistant

“Those who want to erect a building must first of all clear the ground of all rubble and brush, then dig a foundation – the higher the building, the deeper, then begin to build and bring it to completion,” (March 1, Trust and Dare). Blessed Theresa penned these words many years ago and yet they are so fitting for all of us here at Holy Angels today as we celebrate the dedication of our newly renovated Kelleher Hall. This beautiful new space you see on the cover of this issue of Tidings will serve our entire school community with classrooms, art studios, a Mac Lab, chapel, and beautiful new SSND Heritage Center along with new business offices and meeting rooms for faculty and students. We look forward to dedicating Kelleher Hall, named in honor of Sister Genevieve M. Kelleher, SSND, on our school’s feast day – October 2nd, the Feast of the Holy Angels. Here in Demarest, we continue the mission of the School Sisters as we look forward to this amazing new chapter in the Academy’s history and educate young women to transform the world through education in our desire to fulfill the prayer of Jesus Christ “that all may be one.”

As you explore these pages, you will learn about our students’ accomplishments in the fine and performing arts, in dance, our many athletic achievements, and of course in the classroom, but most important of all you will read about how our young women live their Catholic faith inspired by the charism of the SSNDs (page 14). Be sure to catch up on your classmates and friends in our alumnae news beginning on page 16.

As I begin my fourth year here, I reflect on the many blessings Holy Angels has brought to my life – inspiring colleagues, dedicated families, extraordinary students – all of these make leadership here at AHA a joy. Today more than ever, “We seek what they (the SSNDs) sought – to educate and empower our students to reach the fullness of their potential and in turn share their gifts with others as we all strive toward the vision of a global community based on the Gospel values.”

Past and present generations of Angels all know that what began with God, continues with God here at the Academy. Thank you for being a part of our journey as we look forward to ensuring the AHA difference is available to future generations of Angels.

Blessings,

Melinda A. Hanlon President, Academy of the Holy Angels

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jcrusco@holyangels.org

administration Melinda Hanlon, President

president@holyangels.org

Jean Mullooly, Principal

principal@holyangels.org

Francesca Tambone-Puzio

Dean of Academics

ftambone@holyangels.org

Andréa Beyer, Dean of Students abeyer@holyangels.org

George Ballane

Facilities and Technology Administrator gballane@holyangels.org

contents On the Cover

4

Kelleher Hall Renovation

6

Awards for Dance Team, Fine & Performing Artists

Featured Pages

6

Angels in the Arts

10

Angel Athletes

12

Angels Around the Halls

Spirituality 14

15

Faculty News

16

Alumnae News

21

In Memoriam

kelleher hall The Academy of the Holy Angels campus was bustling with activity this past spring and summer, as the former convent building was transformed into the new Sister Genevieve Kelleher Hall. This renovation has allowed Holy Angels to reclaim unused space that will now benefit all students.

In addition to the renovations in Kelleher Hall, the main building has reaped some dramatic improvements. Due to the relocation of the art rooms and computer lab, these rooms can now be used as multidisciplinary classrooms and homerooms.

It is an exciting time as the Angels return for the new school year, but even more so as they experience this new and important chapter of the Academy’s history. The new spaces will enhance their spiritual, creative, and educational experiences – the hallmarks and legacy of the excellence of an education at the Academy.

Main Building Renovations: Four Multi-purpose Classrooms STREAM Laboratory

Kelleher Hall Includes: Two Art Studios Mac Lab Two Large Multi-Purpose Classrooms Chapel Small Conference Rooms Administrative Offices

Please visit

www.holyangels.org/legacyofexcellence for more information about how you can support the funding for S. Genevieve Kelleher Hall as we complete this campus-wide initiative. If you would like information about the naming opportunities available, please contact Dorrie Voulgaris, Director of Advancement at 201-338-8524.

SSND Heritage Center with: SSND Heritage Room A seminar room for religious studies classes and Campus Ministry.

Archives that include artifacts from the School Sisters of Notre Dame and memorabilia from the Academy’s rich history since its founding in Fort Lee in 1879.

Mother Caroline Conference Room

Check out our next issue of Tidings for more photos of Kelleher Hall as it is completed and dedicated!

legacy family gift

Remembering and Celebrating The Carty-O’Shea family suffered the loss of Mary Carty and her daughter Eileen O’Shea-Mahoney (nee Carty) within a very short time.

In searching for a way to keep their legacy alive, the family agreed that a gift to the Academy would be the perfect way to memorialize their grandmother, mother, and aunt. The family’s connection to the Academy of the Holy Angels began in the ’80s and, through the years, there have been a total of eight Angel family members - seven of whom have graduated and one who is currently attending the Academy. They include Geraldine O’Shea Wacker ’88, Kathy O’Shea Deiser ’90, Shannon Meehan ’11, Tiffany Meehan ’13, Shauna O’Shea ’14, Kelly Wacker ’16, Krysta O’Shea ’17, and Ciara Wacker ’20.

When Mary Carty and her four daughters left Ireland in pursuit of the American Dream, it was due to the dwindling opportunities for a better life. They arrived in New York and struggled to make America their new home. It took time and perseverance, but these strong women fought to give their family the best in life, while never losing pride in their Irish roots. Mary and her daughters had different goals and aspirations, but they knew the key to reaching their goals was faith and education.

As the family expanded, two of Mary’s daughters married O'Shea brothers, and the family’s bond strengthened even further. Each new generation witnessed the hard work and sacrifice of their parents, so their children had an opportunity to live out their faith and have access to the best education possible.

Asked about the AHA experience today, Geraldine O’Shea Wacker ’88 shared, “Though the empowerment through faith and education still remains true, the experiences and opportunities have expanded. It is not just about grades and how many A's each student can accumulate, it’s more of a focus on what she is capable of doing and how she can go out and change the world in some special way. There is a great connect with global responsibility and all it encompasses. It’s about challenging yourself and not setting limits on what you can accomplish in every area of life.

AHA is sending out the doers of the world.”

Danny O’Shea, father of Shauna ’14 and Krysta ’17, has also witnessed the AHA difference, and says, “I think some of the most obvious changes in both my daughters and nieces are their altruistic efforts. Holy Angels instills the importance of caring for others and treating all people with respect and compassion. Holy Angels fosters a community built on solidarity, friendship, and trust, which enables students to grow into confident young women who know they have the ability to make a real difference in their communities and in the world.”

By choosing a naming opportunity in the newly renovated Kelleher Hall, the family ensures that the Academy will continue its legacy of academic excellence for a new generation of Angels. Maureen O’Shea Meehan, mother of Shannon ’11 and Tiffany ’13, shares, “We hope that the Carty Mac Lab will keep my grandmother’s and mother’s legacy alive and serve as a small sign of our appreciation for all they did to make our achievements possible.”

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Back Row L to R: Mary Carty Flavin, Eileen Carty O'Shea-Mahoney, Kathleen Carty, Mary Carty, Dymphna Carty O'Shea, Noel O'Shea and Daniel O'Shea, Sr. Front Row L to R: Eileen Hagan, Maureen O'Shea Meehan, Brendan O'Shea

Dear AHA family, Over the years, it has been through the generosity of our donors that we have been able to expand our scholarship offerings and update our campus. The O’Shea family is just one of many in our community to have chosen to remember a loved one in a significant way, while making an impact on the lives of our current Angels.

There are a number of ways you can make a difference, from naming opportunities on campus to endowing a scholarship. If you and/ or your family would like more information about how you, too, can leave a legacy that inspires and helps the next generation of Angels, please contact me at advancement@ holyangels.org or 201.338.8524.

Sincerely,

Dorrie Voulgaris Director of Advancement

angels in the arts AHA Dance Team Captures Second Consecutive National Title Coach Sweet pointed out that the dancers must find a balance between academics and athletics. She noted that each dancer makes a tremendous physical and mental commitment to the team.

“There is a misconception as to exactly how demanding it is to achieve the level of success these dancers have achieved in such a short time,” Sweet said.

One of the challenges the team experienced this year involved late season injuries that kept two dancers on the sidelines during the national competition.

The powerhouse Academy of the Holy Angels Varsity Dance Team has earned its second consecutive National Dance Team Championship in small varsity hip hop, further solidifying its reputation.

The varsity team, coached by Jenny Sweet, includes Samantha Kim, Krystyna Vafiadis, Amanda Hernandez, Danielle Gibney, Isabella Cho, Kaitlyn Lack, Natalie Quinn, Sahar Ali-Jenkins, Madelyn Menapace, Ciara Wacker, Isabella Cardamone, Sophia Costa, and Shannon Dobres.

“We work toward excellence every year,” Sweet added. “We use amazing choreographers and, through the choreography, challenge the dancers to push themselves. We practice and train hard. We focus on the goal of giving everything we have, ‘leaving it all on the floor’ every time.”

"The team’s dedication and success have made AHA not just the team to watch, but the team to beat." Sweet added.

The junior varsity team is coached by Kristen Cebulski ’09. JV dancers include Alexandra McCartha, Odette Castillo,

Hundreds of teams from every corner of the nation participated in the 2017 National Dance Team Championship, which was held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. The competition is administered by the Universal Dance Association, and is endorsed by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

The varsity teams are categorized as small, medium, or large based on the number of dancers on each squad. Teams in each category then show off their best moves in kick, jazz, pom, and hip hop.

Now that the AHA team has made a name for itself on the national stage, those outside the group’s inner circle may not realize that the squad once struggled to find a space where its members could train.

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Melina Tidwell Torres, Alexa Kim, Emily Yang, Julia Creange, Alexandria Arteaga, Kristen Chung, Daniella Hernandez, Maya Aguiling, Daniella Macri, Julianna Pomarico, Courtney Hairston, and Nicole Barbaro.

Alyssa Aponte, a member of the AHA Class of ’11 and former dance team member, is assistant to both the varsity and junior varsity teams.

Both AHA teams have both performed at a New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden, and will dance at a New Jersey Devils game at the Prudential Center in March. The varsity team has also performed at a Brooklyn Nets game.

The dancers regularly share their talents at AHA events and at community gatherings such as Demarest Day and the Closter Spring Fling.

“The path to this year’s National Dance Team Championship was nothing short of amazing,” Sweet summarized. “Our team motto is: ‘If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.’”

Spring Musical The Mystery of Edwin Drood AHA’s production of "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" thrilled the local critics. After earning an impressive array of nominations for the 2017 Metropolitan High School Theater Awards (the most among Bergen County schools), AHA’s stage crew and Musical Director George Croom walked away with this year’s honors.

The cast also received a very special guest during their final dress rehearsal. Rupert Holmes, who composed the show’s book, music, and lyrics, visited the cast for a Question & Answer session. Director Katie McSherry ’03 said. “He was very moved, and the cast, crew, and orchestra were incredibly inspired by his words after the performance. It was a day they will never forget.”

Audiences at AHA’s three performances of “Drood” were similarly inspired by the talent and enthusiasm that are evident in the actors. Cast members interacted with the audience before the shows began, introducing themselves and explaining how the audience would ultimately determine the ending of this comedic musical mystery.

“Drood” is based on a Charles Dickens novel that the author had not completed when he died. Holmes picked up where Dickens left off, but charged the audience with providing the answer to the mystery.

The cast included Christian Puhlosky as William Cartwright/ Chairman, Patrick Buckley as Clive Paget/John Jasper, Sofia Carvajal as Alice Nutting/Edwin Drood, Ariela Pizza as Deirdre Peregrine/Rosa Bud, Lola Samiian as Wendy, Marissa Dellapi as Beatrice, Rianna LeHane as Janet Conover/Helena Landless, Alexander Birchwale as Victor Grinstead/Neville Landless, Bill Fitzpatrick as Cedric Moncrieffe/Mr. Crisparckle, Gabrielle Layne as Angela Prysock/Princess Puffer, Luke Berninger as Nick Cricker/Durdles, Robert Buhrmeister as Deputy, Vincent Simpson as Philip Bax/Bazzard, Sofia Urquiola as Miss Joyce Throttle, and Chris Marzulla as Horace. Members of the ensemble included Olivia Arrigoitia, Jessica Boccassini, Jenna Cooperman, Grace Diaz, Jennifer Kievit, Emily McKiernan, Audrey Miller, Marc Rivera, Sara Rivoir, and Olivia Sheppard.

AHA nominated for 12 Metro Awards • Best Overall Musical • Lead Male (Patrick Buckley) • Outstanding Director (Katie McSherry) • Outstanding Choreographer (Ariane Ryan) • O utstanding Music Direction (George Croom) – WINNER! • Vocal Performance (Ariela Pizza) • Acting Performance (Cristian Puhlovsky) • Stage Crew – WINNER! • Costumes (Ruth Morley) • Scenic Design (Anthony Frietas) • Lobby Design • Graphic Design The Academy also won a Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Award for Outstanding Chorus for the second year in a row!

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angels in the arts Na Young “Neely” Lee and Margeaux Gould earned National Silver Medals in the most recent Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. Both students “unlocked” their chance to compete on the national level of this prestigious competition by winning Gold Key awards in the regional event. Lee, a member of the Class of 2017, earned a National Silver Medal in Painting for her watercolor, "Saudade." Gould, who is now a senior, earned her National Silver Medal in Jewelry for “Nailed to the Neck,” an edgy necklace.

Asked about her interest in art, Neely Lee said, “I would say that everything in life has a meaning that varies according to the unique experiences of each individual and that’s where I get my inspirations. I feel lucky that my art can sometimes speak deeply to people. I love the fact that art has no single interpretation. Anyone can create their own stories from my work of art. I believe that this piece of art also spoke to various people.”

NaYoung Lee

Commenting on her creative process, Gould said, “I was inspired to create this necklace because I wanted to make a subject that is generally thought to be delicate and beautiful using harsh and industrial materials. I wanted to break the standards of thinking that beauty comes strictly from pretty objects by creating a beautiful piece from 'ugly' materials.”

The Scholastic Art and Writing Competition was launched in 1923 to honor teen writers and artists throughout the United States. Silver Medal winners from previous years have included Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, Truman Capote, Richard Avedon, Robert Redford, Lena Dunham, and Paul Chan.

The Academy of the Holy Angels is proud to announce the awarding of 7 Gold Key, 8 Silver Key, and 29 Honorable Mentions were given to our artists for the regional portion of the Scholastic Awards.

REGIONAL RESULTS

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Ruobing Yang

Silver Key Two Honorable Mentions Silver Key Gold Key and an Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Silver Key and an Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Gold Keys Two Honorable Mentions Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Three Honorable Mentions Three Honorable Mentions Three Gold Keys, a Silver Key, & an Honorable Mention Silver Key and an Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Silver Key and Two Honorable Mentions Honorable Mention Gold Key and a Silver Key Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Gold Key, a Silver Key, and an Honorable Mention

Margeaux Gould

Elizabeth Braun: Sabrina Celis: Ashley Chang: Milena Correa: Noelle DeConzo: Tyara Estrada: Sophia Georgiou: Margeaux Gould: Mary Haws: Alexa Hernandez: Bridget Hayden: Katarina Katzarov: Haley Kuznetow: Na Young Lee: Joanne Li: Gabriella Licini: Caroline McGann: Timea Papp: Isabella Pineda: Elana Pulanco: Samantha Ryan: Jillian Tracey: Grace Velarde: Jessica Yale: Ruobing Yang:

NaYoung Lee

ART

Music in our Schools Month In March, the Academy celebrated Music in Our Schools Month and “Random Acts of Music” and “Mini Morning Musicales” occurred on cue. The AHA Handbell Choir officially rang in this annual celebration, which was followed by other pop-up performances throughout the month. From stairwell serenades on violin to the AHA Flute Choir performing, the Angels shared their gift of music with the community.

AHA Instrumental Music Director Mariann Annecchino promises there is more to come. The various ensembles that perform under her direction share their talents at school concerts and events, and within the community. Her students have achieved multiple honors, including acceptance to the Regional High School Band, the Regional High School Orchestra, and the New Jersey All-State Orchestra.

Members of the AHA Concert Choir and Orchestra pose before the Spring Concert

Angels performing Random Acts of Music on campus during the month of March

Please plan to join us on

Saturday, October 21, 2017 from 7:00-11:00pm.

Get ready to bid on some amazing pieces of artwork presented by

Marlin of New York.

Angels in the Arts will host this fun-filled

Art Auction at the Academy of the Holy Angels Participants will have an opportunity to bid on a variety of artworks and sample some wine and refreshments as they visit with other members of the AHA community. Proceeds will be benefit AHA's Fine & Performing Arts Programs. Tickets are $15 per person and can be reserved online at www.holyangels.org/artauction2017

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angel athletes Effort and exertion garner respect and recognition for AHA athletes and coaches.

Romano and Kelly Sim also earned multiple individual honors. Romano was named First Team All-Division and received an Honorable Mention AllCounty. Sim was named First Team All-County and All-State. In addition, Sim won the Big North Tournament and finished fifth in the state finals. She was chosen as a High School All-American and, for the third consecutive year, was named The Record’s Female Golfer of the Year.

Bowlers Make Their Mark

Lax Rises to the Occasion This year, the lacrosse team posted a 10-8 season record and a 3-3 division record, after making the move to the highly competitive Independence North Division.

Season highlights included wins over Glen Rock, Montclair Kimberly Academy, and Pascack Valley. For the first time in program history, the team won back-toback county games after beating Pascack Valley for the second time during the season. Seniors Melanie Welch (Midfield, 66 goals, 23 assists, First Team All-League, First Team All-County), Devin Toolen (Attack, 54 goals, First Team All-League, Second Team All-County), and Maggie Kiess (Goalie, Honorable Mention AllLeague) led the team as captains. Next year’s team leaders will be Iris Knowles (Midfield), Teagan Cunningham (Defense), and Isabelle Shea (Attack, 26 goals, 36 assists, 2nd Team All-League).

Golfers Continue Winning Ways The AHA Golf Team’s 7-1 division record earned the Angels the Division One title, which they share with Old Tappan. The team attained a 14-3 overall record, defeating strong teams from Ridgewood, Northern Highlands, and Old Tappan.

Co-captains Sabrina

AHA’s talented bowlers recently concluded the greatest season in the team’s history.

The Angels won the United Division Big North Preseason Bowling Tournament and took the Bergen County Championship for the second time in four years. The team also topped the United Division with a perfect 16-0 league record, defeating Paramus Catholic twice, Immaculate Heart Academy twice, DePaul twice, Wayne Valley, Hackensack, Paramus, Mahwah, Demarest, and Westwood. After winning the Group 2 State Sectional Title, the team made school history by winning the Group 2 State Title, defeating the eight-time defending champions from Manchester Regional. They finished second in the State Tournament of Champions and ended the season with a win over Teaneck in the Dumont Baker Tournament. The Angels were named Team of the Year by the Bergen County Women Coaches Association and The Record.

Tiffany Sucero and Alexa Hernandez were both named First Team All-League and First Team All-County. Ciara Mottley was First Team All-League and Third Team AllCounty. Amelia Brunda was First Team AllLeague and earned an Honorable Mention All-County. Shiho Numakura received an Honorable Mention All-League. Sucero, the most celebrated bowler in AHA’s

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history, was honored by having her team shirt retired, framed, and placed in AHA’s sports hallway.

Players Forge Unified Team Expectations were high after the AHA Basketball Team won two out of three games in the Christmas Tournament and went on a nine-game winning streak that was part of a 12-2 run. Liz Garcia was having a fantastic year. Amazingly, Garcia seemed better than ever after she returned from a knee injury she suffered during a game against Paramus Catholic. She was at her best for Senior Night, when she shattered her high game record, and was determined to take AHA to a State Championship. After scoring her 1,000th point in the State Semifinal, she suffered another knee injury that kept her sidelined.

Even so, Garcia was on hand, crutches and all, for the State Championship. Although AHA did not win the title, Garcia’s ability to remain positive proved to be an inspiration to teammates, coaches, and fans.

The team’s final record was 18-7. Observers say this very special team will be remembered for having one single heartbeat.

Elena Pulanco was named First Team All-Big North and First Team All-County. Colby DeBellis and Caroline Staff were named Second Team All-Big North, and Angela Romanos received an Honorable Mention.

In addition to being voted First Team AllBig North and Second Team All-County, Garcia was selected to play in the North South All Star Game. Her jersey has been retired in recognition of her many contributions during her four years of basketball and track. She also received the Angel Award, the most prestigious honor

given to any Holy Angels athlete. Eligible individuals must be varsity athletes in at least two sports and must have demonstrated exceptional dedication, spirit, and leadership throughout four years of participation in athletics. This fall, Garcia will continue her basketball career at the University of Hartford.

Tracking Down the Wins The AHA Spring Track Team tied for the League Championship, and finished

garnered Second Team All-County in the 200m. Pole Vaulter Caroline McGann was chosen Third Team All-County. She also won the League, County, and State Sectional Championships while setting a new school record. Anya Skae won the League and County championships in the discus and shot put.

At the State Sectionals, the 4x400 relay team of Lyons, Rodriguez, Bagin, and Sheehan broke a seven-year-old school record.

Likewise, the 4x100 relay team of Christina McCarthy, Veronique Dhont, Nicole Barbaro, and Rodriguez won the State Sectional Championship in school record breaking time.

Lyons set a new school record in the 800m, and Rodriguez set new school records in the 100m and 200m.

High Jumper Joins Monmouth Track Program This fall, AHA’s record-holding high jumper Samantha Fellowes officially

second in the County Relays and Individuals, third in the State Sectionals, and fifth in the State Group Meet. All of these accomplishments took place despite the loss of key team member Liz Garcia and seven weeks without Head Coach Howard Schuman.

Mackenzie Hughes won the State Group Championship in the 1600m, becoming the first girl in school history to break five minutes. She also won the League and County championship in the 1600m and 3200m, and was chosen First Team All-County.

AHA’s 4x800 relay team of Mackenzie Hughes, Tara Lyons, Christina Bagin, and Abby Sheehan won the State Group Championship, breaking the school record by 11 seconds and was chosen First Team All-County. At Nationals in North Carolina, the team finished third and again broke the school record.

Bagin was chosen Second Team AllCounty in the 1600m. Maris Rodriguez

became a member of the track program at Monmouth University. Fellowes signed her letter of intent in March. This Allendale resident has served as captain and high jumper for the winter and spring track teams, and has participated in the Academy’s basketball and volleyball programs. She plans to study public relations/communications at Monmouth.

Coaching Staff Earns Group Honor The staff of Howard Schuman, Nick Veneroso, Staisean Lyew, Megan Dippolito, and Diana Rankin recently made history by becoming the first group to be honored as The Record’s Girls Spring Track Coaches of the Year.

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When it became clear that the AHA Spring Track Team would have to do without key member Liz Garcia and Head Coach Howard Schuman (a 50year coaching veteran), the Angels and their assistant coaches found strength in their unity. The coaches reminded the athletes that there was plenty of talent on the team, and the Angels responded by showing they were contenders.

Throughout the season, Holy Angels remained competitive in the Big North United, Bergen E, and North Non-public A meets, earning the team’s coaches this first-ever honor for a group.

Veneroso served as acting head coach and weight coach, while Lyew took on the responsibilities of assistant coach.

Dippolito concentrated on distance, and Rankin took on general responsibilities.

Going for the Goal This fall, goalie Kerry Sammon began playing soccer at Gettysburg College.

She officially signed her letter of intent at AHA earlier this year. Sammon arrived at Holy Angels as a sophomore transfer student and quickly demonstrated her prowess as a goalie along with her positive attitude and outstanding leadership and motivational skills. She began playing soccer as a very young girl, and joined a competitive club soccer when she was in the fifth grade. A resident of Pearl River, New York, Sammon plans to study economics and international affairs at Gettysburg.

angels around the halls THE ARTS June Chung and nine AHA musicians she recruited from Tri-M presented “Spring into Music” for the residents of Sunrise, a memory care residence in Paramus.

Chung, who graduated in June, is Tri-M’s immediate past president. Students who accompanied June were Olivia Sheppard, Jessica Yale, Francesca Marsh, Alison Kim, Mary Macri, Amanda Siemsen, Kayla Pringle, and Jaya and Maya Sharma. The group is pictured below with the Sunrise representative.

Our 2017 Angel Award winner Jessica Yale has been active with the AHA Chorus, the AHA Vocal Ensemble, the Art Club, Project Greenhouse, and more. As a junior, her jewelry design earned her a Silver Key in the Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. This fall, she will attend Wentworth Institute of Technology, where she plans to study industrial design. The Arts Angel Award is the most prestigious honor given to an Angel Artist. Jessica is pictured below with Mrs. Francesca Tambone-Puzio, Dean of Academics.

HELPING HANDS

Pictured above, with AHA students and Dean of Academics Francesca TambonePuzio, are Freda Catheus and Maureen Plaismond from Beyond Borders and Sister Grace Sciamanna, SSND of the Atlantic Midwest Province of the School Sisters of Notre Dame’s Haiti Committee, when they visited Holy Angels earlier this year.

AHA’s sponsors, the School Sisters of Notre Dame, partnered with Beyond Borders to support the organization’s efforts to improve lives throughout Haiti. Catheus and Plaisimond spoke about their work and graciously accepted the balance of AHA’s donation to the Hurricane Matthew relief effort. AHA raised $5,785 – enough to help three families.

AHA students and faculty members worked with new immigrants to the United States during recent service trips to Arizona and Connecticut. Grace MacNeill, Lucy McAuliffe, Sydney Otis, Demitria Poulos, and Ayse Seker with Mission and Ministry/Religion Teacher Joan Connelly and Religious Studies Department Chair Carol Fay spent their break getting an up-close look at immigration issues in Douglas, AZ, a town near the border of the United States and Mexico. They visited a group of School Sisters of Notre Dame to work with immigrants and residents of the communities near the international border.

This five-day Mission Awareness Process trip allowed students to discover the facts about immigration into the U.S.

Nirvana Rajkumar, Anjianie Perez, Julia Malnak, Abigail Sheehan, Tara Lyons, Amanda Hawthorne, and Gabriella Ligresti and AHA Director of Campus Ministry Kathy Sylvester also spent a school break immersed in SSND life while performing service work. The group stayed in Wilton, CT and visited with the sisters,

including AHA alumna and avid seamstress Sister Marie Anna Moltz ’39. The students also spent three days at The Caroline House, where they worked with immigrant women and children, and listened to their

stories. “They came away with a deeper sense of how hard these women work, and how complicated their lives are,” Sylvester said. AHA students were able to spend some time with S. Genevieve Kelleher, SSND, during their stay at Villa Notre Dame.

LEADERSHIP

Students Arianne Rowe and Jaya Sharma represented the School Sisters of Notre Dame at the 61st United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. This

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year’s event focused on women’s economic empowerment in the changing world of work. Sister Eileen Reilly, SSND, director of the SSND UN Non-governmental Organization Office, coordinated AHA’s participation in this event, and Jennifer Cucchisi, an international studies/ history teacher from Holy Angels, accompanied the Academy’s delegates.

AHA’s representatives attended a rally for women and seminars that included “Leave No Girl Behind,” “It Starts with Safety: Adding Girls to the Global Agenda,” “The Changing World of Work: The View from the Bench,” and “The Role of Young Female Leaders in the Decision Making Process.” Speakers addressed a multitude of issues, including child marriage, genderbased violence, and access to education.

Samantha Kim was named this year’s senior commencement speaker, the top honor an AHA graduate can receive from her alma mater. Kim was selected based on her top four-year cumulative average in combination with her leadership activities, spirituality, and service work. Grace MacNeill was Second in Merit.

This spring, multiple students were inducted into the Science National Honor Society. New inductee Micaela Maron also received the Orange & Rockland Scientific Achievement Award for Young Women. Below is a photo of Micaela with Science Department Chairperson Nancy Brizzolara.

AHA Girl Rising club leaders Katherine Staff, Amanda Hernandez, and Alexandra McCartha were on hand as worldrenowned girls’ education advocate Malala Yousafzai was named the United Nations Messenger of Peace.

ACADEMICS

got news?

Pictured above, L to R: Nahee Kim, Clara Jeon, Samantha Kim and Joanne Li, members of the Class of 2017, have been named National Merit Scholars.

We love hearing from our alumnae! We want to celebrate with you by sharing your good news and accomplishments with the entire AHA community. Send your news and photos for the next issue of Tidings to alumnae@holyangels.org

by December 1, 2017.

We love pictures, and we want you to look good! Photos that are below the acceptable resolution for print will not

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Kindness Award Recipients 2016-17 Students who exhibit inspirational positivity, kindness, and helpfulness are regularly rewarded at the Academy of the Holy Angels. Each quarter, selected students who demonstrate these exemplary qualities receive the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award. This award has been named in memory of our beloved S. Catherine Green, SSND, who exhibited kindness to all she met.

Rim El Kaddioui Katarina Katzarov Na Young “Neely” Lee Victoria Lehman Sasha Leys Nora Pav Demitria Poulos Kayla Pringle Geraldine Riveros Jeziah Rodriguez Samantha Romano Jaya Sharma Willa Spaar Katelyn Spinks Kelly Unanue

be published. Here are some tips for sending us digital photos that will look fantastic in print: • Make sure your camera is set to the best photo setting (usually “FINE”) so that your photos will be > 300dpi • Do not send photos directly from your phone, as they are automatically sized down to a lower resolution • Please “attach” your photo to the email, just as you would a document.

JPEGs are preferred.

spirituality Sustaining and Growing the SSND Charism

S. Imma Mack, SSND, who brought prayer items (bread, oils, and candles), food, and flowers to prisoners at the Dachau concentration camp. The junior retreat, “Follow the Star in Your Heart,” traces Mother Caroline’s journey that brought the School Sisters’ mission to the United States. Seniors enroll in “Christian Lifestyles” and one of the following electives: “Women of Faith,” “Death and Dying,” “Peacemaking,” and “Search for Meaning,” which involves an exploration of vocational life.

In addition, students live out the charism, and bring Christ’s presence to others, through various service projects: • Students work at Caroline House for underserved women and immigrants in Bridgeport, Connecticut, while staying at the SSND Mother House in Wilton.

• At St. Peter the Apostle School for low-income families (Philadelphia), AHA students clean classrooms, arrange books, and decorate bulletin boards during the summer, living in the convent under the guidance of Principal S. Rose Federici, SSND.

In an ever-changing world, it is fortunate that the vision of the School Sisters of Notre Dame thrives at the Academy of the Holy Angels. Administrators, faculty, and students embrace a deep and abiding commitment to this magnetic charism. Strong, faith-filled leaders – laity and religious – promote the SSND charism as strongly as when the Academy was first founded.

• Faculty members Joan Connelly and Carol Fay travel with students to Arizona and serve meals to families at a migrant center in Mexico.

“You can’t help but be touched by it when you let it touch your soul,” one staff member commented.

• For the United Nations International Day of the Girl, students met with S. Eileen Reilly, an SSND representative to the United Nations and participated in a session of the Commission of the Status of Women.

Inspired by General Superior S. Mary V. Maher, worldwide leader of the entire congregation and 1968 graduate of AHA, the SSND Congregation forms the lay administrators of its institutions province-wide through a two-year program focusing on the history, teachings, and governance of the School Sisters.

Beyond the classroom, AHA works to promote campus ministry projects with the current SSND directional statements.

Recent projects include the Kick the Water Bottle campaign to encourage respect for the environment, and Help for Haiti, a fundraiser for Beyond Borders that helped families in Haiti recover from Hurricane Matthew.

Today, more than ever, Angels are immersed in the SSND charism, beginning when they are prospective students. At orientation, students learn about SSND foundresses Blessed Theresa Gerhardinger and Mother Caroline Friess, and AHA’s foundress S. Mary Nonna Dunphy. Holy Angels’ faculty integrate this mission into every subject. The school’s academic philosophy is based on the SSND charism, “education that transforms,” and Christ is the unseen, ever-present teacher.

The Academy’s religious studies courses are a rich mosaic of topics that highlight the lives of brave women of faith meeting challenges. Students are encouraged to apply these teachings to their own lives. Freshmen are challenged to consider how they can live as prophets as they delve into “Prayer and SSND Charism.” This course is an exploration of the experiences of the SSND foundresses and Old Testament prophets who were called to transform their society. In sophomore year, the “Christian Morality and Conscience Formation” course highlights S. Maria Antonina Kratochwill, SSND, who was imprisoned in a concentration camp in Poland for her support and defense of Jews. The juniors focus on the sacraments, and learn about

It is the commitment of Angel alumnae to live the SSND charism and share their advice on career panels and as speakers at campus events. Often, the realization of the impact of the SSND charism on the alumnae is even more striking when they leave campus. The mission nurtured under AHA’s roof continues to take root and is spread

by AHA Angels around the world.

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faculty news We bid farewell to:

AHA Faculty Study Abroad

This year, AHA bids farewell to AHA faculty member Maureen Ferrara as she retires after 15 years of service to the Academy.

Mrs. Ferrara came to AHA in 2002 as a teacher of anatomy & physiology and AP Biology. During her tenure, she has been a strong proponent for opportunities where students are exposed to real-life experiences in the field of science. Therefore, when a student suggested the creation of the MEDS club - an opportunity for current Angels to explore careers in the field of health care, Mrs. Ferrara jumped on board.

It has been under her guidance that the MEDS club continues today. Similarly, when the opportunity arose for Angels to participate in the surgical research course in partnership with Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, Mrs. Ferrara stepped forward as the coordinator of this amazing opportunity. This course has provided students with a unique opportunity to gain experience in a research setting beyond the classroom and learn the fundamentals of surgical methods. Thank you, Mrs. Ferrara, for inspiring and preparing our Angels to pursue majors and careers in the field of biology and beyond!

The Academy of the Holy Angels is a Gilder Lehrman Affiliate School, a designation that allows AHA educators to apply for the Teacher Seminars program.

AHA faculty members Gail Fair and Nancy Schneberger received grants to study in the UK during the summer of 2017 from the competitive Teacher Seminars program sponsored by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

Fair, who is chairperson of the AHA History Department, traveled to the University of Edinburgh for the “Thomas Jefferson and the Enlightenment” seminar. She previously received a Teacher Seminars grant in 2003 for a session held at Columbia University. She will share her experience with her Advanced Placement United States History students in the fall.

“I will also use the materials from the class to give my students any new insights that I gain,” Fair added. “I am also an advocate for international travel and study abroad programs for my students, and hope my experience will inspire them to learn in many different environments.”

Thank you, Luke

Schneberger, who chairs the AHA English Department, will attend Oxford University for "The Age of Lincoln" seminar.

In 2004, the Academy of the Holy Angels purchased a border collie trained to assist with the ever-growing problem of geese on campus. Over the years, Luke became more than just a goose dog...he was a member of the AHA family. Because of his temperament, Luke was a prime candidate to become a therapy dog and began working as a volunteer “listener” in the local library in the children’s section. Luke completed his certification with Therapy Dogs International in 2007 as a Disaster Stress Relief Dog. Luke, with S. Mary Foley, SSND, went onto to respond to tragedies throughout the NJ area and US, most notably, in the town of Newtown, CT in the religious education classes at St. Rose of Lima Church. In April 2017, Luke’s health declined and he passed away. S. Mary Foley shared, “His work on this earth was accomplished."

A permanent garden has been placed outside the Learning Commons to remember and celebrate Luke.

Schneberger shared. “Having participated in a Fulbright seminar in Tübingen, Germany, and a National Endowment for the Humanities seminar in Vienna, Austria, I know well the prodigious impact such programs have on the participants and how the knowledge gained bears fruit in many ways, in the classroom and personally.

“Collegial sharing, lectures from experts in their fields, and full concentration on a topic on location is a most vibrant way of exploring a subject, and I look forward to sharing ideas with the teachers who have been selected from all over the United States and with the Oxford professors in the program.”

“I am particularly interested in learning about the role of the press in the abolitionist movement and the ongoing challenges of racism and sexism of that period and beyond,” she said.

Schneberger strives to present her students with the social and political context of topics being discussed in class.

“In my American Literature classes, I cover the fiction and nonfiction of the Civil War period, and some of the topics that will be covered in this seminar, such as religion and politics and the meaning of the war for American nationalism, will surely benefit the students.”

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alumnae association president Dear Angels, I hope that the summer months brought you much rest, relaxation, and time spent with your family and friends. On June 4, 147 new alumnae Angels were added to our fold. We wish them much luck and love as they begin a new chapter in their lives. May their love of learning and all that they have learned here at AHA never waver.

This summer has brought a major transformation on campus, as we have renovated our former convent building which will now be known as Sister Genevieve Kelleher Hall. This change will benefit our entire community and includes new art studios, Mac Lab, additional classrooms, chapel, and a heritage suite with AHA archives. There is also additional work that was done in the main building to create a STREAM Lab. It is an exciting time at AHA! Our annual Alumnae Mother Daughter Tea took on a new twist this year, as we instead held a garden party. How wonderful it was for our alumnae and their future Angels to experience AHA’s Project Greenhouse. Alumnae and future Angels should plan to attend Open House on Sunday, October 1st. Our VIP Legacy Reception and tours are at 9:30am. All alumnae are invited to Alumnae Weekend on October 27-28. In addition to celebrating the reunion of the classes ending in ’2 and ’7, we will also recognize our Hall of Fame honorees for the fine & performing arts and athletics. The weekend will also include an opportunity to tour Kelleher Hall and meet some of our current Angels. If you can’t make in October, there will be a Paint and Sip night in November where you can create your own art in our new art studio in Kelleher Hall.

Wishing you a wonderful rest of your summer and a peaceful start to the fall. We hope to see you on campus soon!

Sincerely, Karen Sullivan Camporeale ’88

E A N M ’60 L U A

EWS N 52

’

Margaret Buckley Graham ’52 shares, “I’ve been married for 61 years and have been blessed with seven children and their spouses with 13 grandchildren and now our first great-grandson.”

’53

Mary “Midge” Purcell Popp ’53 came up from Florida to celebrate the 80th birthday of Loretta Kelly Wilson ’53 held at the Hackensack Golf Club.

Diane Neary Ewing ’60 writes, “Blessed with 12 grandchildren, ages 1-14. Too busy to work! Active in my parish and community, serving on three boards: church, Saint Vincent de Paul, and community.”

’66

’63

Antoinette Pavlu Beyer ’66 is happy to share that she retired in April 2017 – after a total of 26 years of teaching art in the Dumont and River Vale school systems.

Donna Pucciani ’66 has recently released her seventh book of poetry, “EDGES.” It is available on Amazon, through independent bookstores internationally, and at vacpoetry. org. Donna has had several readings in the Chicago area, and in the UK in April.

’64

Tara Greaney ’70 has retired from Cravath, Swaine & Moore Children's Center after 27 years and will now take on the role of the head of school at Morningside Montessori in NYC.

Margaret Hurley Wells ’63 shares, “I welcomed my fifth grandchild to this world on September 28, 2016 – Griffin Daniel Wells.

Louise Fiochi Gunderson ’64, a senior partner of the Gunderson Embree Group and one of UBS’ most successful financial advisors. This year, Louise was recognized

by Forbes as one of the Top 200 Women Advisors with a ranking at #9 and topped all the women at UBS. She was most recently named #38 on Barron’s Top 100 Women Financial Advisor list for 2017.

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’70 ’71

Margaret Foti Morrison ’71 attended the Christmas Candlelight Service at Zion Lutheran Church in Westwood,

NJ, to listen to the choir of which Jane Schauren Concato ’71 is a member.

Margaret is a superior court judge and presiding judge of the criminal division in Bergen County, NJ. Jane is the traumatic brain injury consumer consultant for the Kessler Foundation in West Orange, NJ.

’74

Lisa Mayer ’74 is keeping busy as the second vice president at American Legion Auxiliary Post 129. She also volunteers as a Eucharistic Minister at a local assistedliving and nursing home, and participates in her parish’s funeral ministry.

’75

Joan Lasser ’75 is happy to announce the marriage of her daughter, Kristen, to Thomas Powers. They were married on June 24, 2016 in Newport, RI, and reside in Boston, MA. The couple met in Florence, Italy, when they both studied abroad.

’83

Senior Vice President - Wealth Management at UBS, Kathleen McNicholas Entwistle ’83, has been named to Forbes 2017 list of Top 200 Women Advisors.

’86

Stacey Antine ’86 was recognized by the Bergen County Department of Human Services Commission on the Status of Women as one of the Women Trailblazers in Business & Labor in Bergen County.

This award was presented during Women's History Month. Honorees were recognized

by Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and the Board of Chosen Freeholders for their contributions to the community.

Stacey was the keynote speaker and is the founder of HealthBarn USA in Ridgewood, NJ. Joan Marie Infosino Johnson ’86 is proud

to announce that her book “Funding Feminism: Monied Women, Philanthropy and the Women’s Movement, 1870-1967,” will be published in October 2017.

Joan shares, “My education at AHA was empowering and decidedly influential to my career as a women’s historian and this book on funding feminism. The book explores the history of impact that women have had through funding women’s causes, including winning the right to vote and opening up access to higher education, with chapters on founding women’s colleges and making universities not just coeducational but also more welcoming to women.” Joan is currently working in the Office of the Provost at Northwestern University.

’88

Sharon Discorfano ’88 writes, “Last year, I was invited to serve as a founding director of Empire State Humane Voters.

It’s poised to be a real game-changer for New York’s animals on the state and city levels. I’m also an advisory board member for Wild Bird Fund, NYC’s only wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center.

In other news, my book "Teaching Poetry, Embracing Perspectives" is scheduled for release by Rowman & Littlefield in September. I’m most excited about this project because of its emphasis on developing students’ ability to engage in respectful discourse and fostering an appreciation for diversity.”

’97

Meghan Burke ’97 is happy to announce the birth of her daughter Elle Vivienne on October 15, 2016. Elle weighed 8lbs 4oz and was 20 1/4 inches long. Meghan met up with fellow Angel classmates for a mini-reunion and play date! Pictured from left to right: Meghan Burke ’97 with Elle,

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Graziella Baratta Ventura ’97 holding daughter MariAnna Lina, Angela Christou Chatzopoulos ’97 with son Panagiotis and Christina Marchisio Kent ’97 holding daughter Charlotte Wynter.

’00

Dana Russo Luppino ’00 and her husband, Peter, welcomed their first child, Anna Catherine, on April 1, 2016. Anna weighed in at 7lbs 7oz and measured 20 inches long. Sheila Monaghan ’00, editor-in-chief of “Futhermore” magazine, was featured on Adidas’ website blog where she shared her fitness tips. Sheila says, "It’s all a matter of saying to yourself, ‘Why not? I don’t know unless I try.'” See the full blog post at micoach.adidas.com/ blog/en/sheila-monaghans-fitness-tips.

Emily Schmitt Dennis ’00 and her husband Brady welcomed a daughter, Clare Margaret, on March 31, 2017.

Clare joins big brother James who is 3 ½. The family lives in Washington, DC, where Emily is the deputy director of the Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation in the federal Administration for Children and Families.

’02

Ashley Rumble ’02 married David Minervini at St. Elizabeth’s Church in Wyckoff on September 17, 2017 followed by a reception in the couple’s Wyckoff home. Angels in attendance were: Katie Rose Francis ’02, Valerie Schaffner ’04, Natalie Orrico ’02, Kristin Schaffner Rodriguez ’02, Morgan Castor ’02, Andie Medel ’02, Jacqueline Morin ’14, Aileen Dumlao Brown ’02, Melissa Morin Sutley ’02, Kelly Fitzgerald Sullivan ’02, Isabel Santos ’02, Ana Book ’02 and Kristi Jahnke Luzzetti ’02.

’03

Xiomara, daughter of Claire-Voe Ocampo ’03 and wife Kendra, celebrated her baptism at the First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford on May 7, 2017. Fellow Angels and their spouses who attended were Godmother Andrea Bernardo Acosta ’05, Katrina Guillermo ’03, Nicole Rodriguez ’03, Maria Fatima Torres Iharada ’03, Maria Theza Mateo Virola ’03, and Stephanie Sinon Pandya ’03.

’04

Ali Kearns Sheehan ’04 and her husband Jesse welcomed their second daughter Audrey Jordan on September 20, 2016.

Audrey weighed 6lbs 20oz and was 20 inches long. Audrey joins big sister Emma.

The family is stationed at Fort Benning, GA. Kathleen Puglisi Costantini ’04 and her husband Fabiano welcomed

their daughter Seraphina Marguerite on January 13, 2017. She weighed 8lbs 4oz and was 20.5 inches. Their son Luca is excited to be a big brother.

’05

Catherine Perna Saum ’05 and Daniel Saum welcomed Violet Frances Mary on December 13, 2016.

The future Angel weighed in at 7lb 6oz. The Valley Hospital labor and delivery nurse who helped bring Violet into the world is also an AHA alumna!

Kate Bosi ’05 and her husband Tim welcomed their first child, son Lorenzo, on December 2, 2016.

’08

Gabrielle Collantes ’08 graduated from New York University, pursuing a career in supply chain management and logistics.

She’s currently working as an operations analyst with Sysco Foods NY. In the fall, she was selected for a series of Lean Six Sigma certification trainings. Working with the Delaware Valley Industrial Resource Center in Philadelphia, PA, she was chosen to speak about bringing a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence back to her workplace during their annual luncheon.

Working in both the transportation and warehouse departments, she is one of the few women you will see on the floor or working in trucks directly with drivers.

As a result of her work with the DVIRC, she has been chosen to continue her training toward a Six Sigma Black Belt level beginning in January 2018.

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Allison Gadaleta ’08 graduated with honors from Pratt Institute School of Architecture in 2013 and is currently working at an architectural firm, MG New York Architects, which focuses on historic preservation and conversion. Allison is also a competitive triathlete and cyclist, racing nationally and soon internationally. She spent 2016 competing in cycling road races, time trials, and several triathlons ranging from the sprint distance to the half iron distance.

In August 2016, she raced at the Age Group National Championship in Omaha, NE and qualified as a member of Team USA that will race at the 2017 Sprint World Championship in Rotterdam, Netherlands. You can follow her racing adventures on instagram: @bklyn_alleycat

’10

Abigail Luhn ’10, a 2014 Phi Beta Kappa, magna cum laude graduate of the College of the Holy Cross, received her Juris Doctor (cum laude) from Seton Hall University School of Law on May 25, 2017. She was awarded the Center for Social Justice Award for her outstanding contribution to the Civil Litigation Clinic and the ABA/BNA Award for Excellence in Labor Employment Law. During her legal education, Abigail was also awarded Best Appellate Brief and Best Appellate Oral Argument for the prosecution in her appellate advocacy class.

In addition, Abby was the comments editor for the Seton Hall Circuit Review and has had her comment (“How to Avoid Adding Insult to Injury under the Maritime Rescue Doctrine”) published in the latest volume of the Seton Hall Circuit Review Journal.

Abigail will clerk for the Honorable Jack M. Sabatino, Presiding Judge Appellate Division, for the 2017-2018 term, after which she will join the firm of Drinker, Biddle & Reath LLP as a litigation associate.

’13

Maggie Ritter ’13 shared her leadership skills at Loyola University of Maryland, where she became interested in student government and participated all four years. This past year, Maggie was the president of the student body. One of her many responsibilities of the position was to give a welcome speech to the incoming freshman class of approximately 1,000 students and their parents.

Angel Sisterhood “...Our surest refuge and our stay, Undimmed by storm or strife, Thy guiding light burns all the years Protecting us through life.”

AHA Alma Mater, Lyrics by Margaret Mary Powers Gidez ’42

’14

Kayla Quigley ’14 and Nina McLaughlin ’14 spent the fall semester abroad at the University of Galway. They are pictured having breakfast with former AHA Principal Jennifer Moran who had passed through Galway on a recent trip. Kayla returned to Villanova in the spring and Nina returned to Wake Forest, where she is pursuing a dual major in psychology and sociology. Angels are truly everywhere!

When I graduated from Holy Angels 33 years ago, in 1984, little did I know how true the words my mother wrote in the Holy Angels Alma Mater would be for me later in life. After graduation from AHA, I moved on to college, graduated, married, and had children. All the while, I kept in touch with some of my classmates, but really had not seen most of my classmates since 1984.

When Facebook arrived on the scene I was able to reconnect with a number of my classmates and Angels from other class years. January 27, 2017, my 15 year old daughter was diagnosed with cancer. I immediately reached out to one of the Angels from my class and asked if she could let my other classmates know so they could storm the heavens with prayers.

What happened next was incredible. A private FB group was set up and message after message of support and prayers flooded in, not only from classmates I was in contact with, but also some I had not seen or heard from since 1984. Their support and prayers carried my daughter, me, and our family through a “storm” like we had never faced. We never felt alone and I knew I could reach out at any time and one of my Angels would be there to lift me up. In addition to the prayers and support offered in this FB group, my Angels had a steady stream of gifts sent to my daughter (and a few for me, too) to help her get through this incredible challenge of beating cancer. They wrapped us in “Angel love”. We were truly blessed to have these Angels by our side each and every day and we know that we will always have them. This is the AHA difference! Thank you Class of 1984.

Alma Mater All Hail!

Maura Gidez Kilner ’84

MERZ SCHOLARSHIP The Academy of the Holy Angels’ commitment to excellence in education does not end on graduation day. The Ellen and Ralph Merz Scholarships established by 1916 graduate Ellen Reilly Merz, a ward of the foundress, Sister Mary Nonna Dunphy, SSND, are awarded annually to graduates of Holy Angels.

Congratulations to our 2017 Merz Scholars

The deadline for the 2018-19 school year is March 12, 2018.

Information and the application can be found at www.holyangels.org/merzscholarship

Sheila Lenihan Jordan ’84

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Julia DeSimone ’15 Cassandra Germana ’06 Ellen Ryan ’09

alumnae events

Annual Alumnae Mothers Dinner

Tea & Garden Party

This annual dinner is an opportunity to connect with current, past and future alumnae moms. In attendance were: Mary Kate Ficca Menapace ’90, Dorrie Voulgaris, Margaret Heany Saxenian ’80, Geraldine O’Shea Wacker ’88, Mary Frances Byrne Bednarcik ’83, Karen Sullivan Camporeale ’88, Jennifer Henry, Melinda Hanlon, Kristine Murray Diverio ’85, Renne Norfleet Ramirez ’85 and Jennifer Varoli Licini ’86.

Alumnae and their future Angels had tea and a light lunch which included a make your own cupcake bar. They then toured the Academy’s Greenhouse, planted seeds to take home, and had an opportunity to peruse the annual Art Show and the work of the many talented Angels.

Fresh & Fancy Farm in New Milford, NJ

Florida Angels 2017 AHA President Melinda Hanlon and Director of Advancement & Alumnae Relations Dorrie Voulgaris, had the opportunity to meet Angels throughout the state of Florida in March 2017. At each gathering, AHA memories were shared and it was evident that the Angel bond is still strong no matter the year of graduation.

In Tampa, the Angels enjoyed a luncheon at the historic restaurant The Columbia in Ybor City.

Top row, L to R: Kelsey Burnett ’11, Ashley Jenkins Kincade ’99, Kathleen Tigh Detrano ’63, Dorrie Voulgaris, Anne Marie Theysohn Lennox ’68. Bottom row, L to R: S. Veronica Visceglia ’60, SSND, Melinda Hanlon, Barbara Tanzola Mason ’62.

At a stop for brunch with the Angels in Sarasota at the Marina Jack Restaurant, Mrs. Hanlon met up with: top row, L to R: Delfina Acuto Herbert ’60, Maureen Lewis Corbett ’65, Dorrie Voulgaris. Bottom row, L to R: Carolyn Lucia Vioni ’61 and Mrs. Hanlon.

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The last stop on the west coast was a luncheon with Angels in the Naples area at the Sea Salt Restaurant. Pictured top row, L to R: Alumnae Parent JoAnn Mara PP’03, Dorrie Voulgaris, Susan Quinn Noto ’65, Melinda Hanlon, Leslie Burke Robertson ’64, Rosemary Burke ’68, Annemarie Burke Leeson ’72 and bottom row, L to R: Elaine Hoffmann Middelstaedt ’65 and Mary Ehrhard Garretson ’71.

Before heading back to NJ, the Angels enjoyed dinner at the Sea Watch Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. Pictured are: Melinda Hanlon, Nancy Stoldt Walsh ’63 with Anne Haviland Arnold ’54 and Arline Zenorini Conn ’46 in the front row. Those not pictured but, also in attendance were: Christina Karas ’85, Marlene Maresca Nielsen ’65, Georgette Bergeron Ingraham ’68, Joan Larsen Friezo ’57, Gilda Panvini ’64, Libia Mendez Nahas ’02 and Rosemary Capuzzi ’61.

READERS: The Post Office does not forward Tidings. Postal regulations require the school to pay for every copy not deliverable as addressed.

Please notify us directly of any changes of address, giving both the new and old address.

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PARENTS: If this publication is addressed to your daughter and she no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumnae Office at 201-768-7822 x211 or by email at alumnae@holyangels.org.

in memoriam Susan Girado

SSND

FAMILY & FRIENDS

S. Alvita Maguire, SSND ’41

Judith Arturi

ALUMNAE

Mother of Catherine Arturi Parilla ’61 and Maria Arturi ’72 and Mother-In-Law of Linda Coppola Arturi ’69

Richard Gorman

Gina Ottomanelli Bender

Grandfather of Mary Macri ’19

Mary Alice McDonald Fischer ’34 Mother of Kathleen Fischer Scopaz ‘63

Mary McCrane Doherty ’40

Aunt of Darcy Ottomanelli ’17

Dorothy Kovacich Novak ‘42

Terrence Brest

Loretta Scuorzo class of ‘42 – did not graduate from AHA

Brother-in-Law of AHA Staff Member Priscilla Bishop

Jane Rieman Wilson ‘42

Jane Burgs

Eileen Feeney Lynch ’45 Sister of Margaret Feeney O’Brien ’47

Rita Heule Christensen ‘47

Grandmother of Erica PritchardCunningham AHA faculty member

Marion Calabrese Mother of Janet Calabrese Merrill ’66

Marguerite Vita Hubschmann ’47

Vincent Calise

Rose Mary Shannon McQuaide ’48

Grandfather of Kendra Mara ’03 and father of JoAnn Mara former AHA Board member

Andree McGuire De Gedrinsky ’52 Ada Capul Hoffman ’52 Carol Sofio ‘52 Marianne Kirchgesner Strohmeyer '52 Eileen McCrane Weber ’52

Mary Carratura Mother of Mary Carratura Carroll ’76 and Theresa Carratura ’79

Christopher Connelly

Sister of Dolores Rutz Gabriele ’52

Brother-in-Law of AHA faculty member Joan Connelly and uncle of Megan Connelly ’09

Maria Doto Olmo ’54

Dan Cooney

Margaret Rutz Grande ’54

Sister of Ann Doto Arietta ’65

Son of Nan Portway Cooney ’80

Mary Ellen Roe O’Brien ’57

Patrick Cullan

Elsa Schwerzler Rugo ’58

Cousin of Anya Skae ’18

Sister of Helen Schwerzler Murphy ’55 and Mary Schwerzler Cantaluppi ’64

Joan D’Incecco

Denise Clinton Sterling-Snibert ’59

Vincent DeCandia

Mary Ann Buckley ‘60

Grandfather of Jessica Alstete ’10

Katherine Walpole Stevens ’61

Maria Diaz

Jeanette McGuire Porter ’62 Marcelle Clarke Baumbach ’63 Sister of the late Barbara Clarke Burrows ’60

Margaret Grimes ’67

Mother of Nicole D’Incecco Kahn ’90

Mother of LoriAna Diaz ’05

William Dunleavy Father of Maryann Dunleavy ’76 and Jane Dunleavy ’77

Robert J. Ebner

Sister of Anne Marie Grimes Whittmore ’63 and Regina Grimes Schwab ’64

Father of Elizabeth Ebner ’78, Patricia Ebner Goldin ’83 and Katryn Ebner Seliskar ’87.

Donna Marie Wilkins Robinson ’69

Lusi Ezgilioglu

Doreen Massarelli ’71 Sister of Dianne Massarelli Martel ’72

Mother of Victoria Ezgilioglu Knief ’06 and Aunt of Victoria Ezgilioglu ’17

Marguerite Kennedy Teff ’75

Mark Farrell

Lori Moore Tasca ’77 Aunt of Danielle Tasca Taylor ’08 and Nicole Tasca ’20

Barbara Truppi Lowell ’84 Sister of Beth Truppi DeSimone ’87

Kerri Wilson Murphy '88 Daughter of Loretta Kelly Wilson '53

Jaclyn Sabol Patton ’00

Brother of Ann Farrell McMahon ’69

Patricia Fleming

Grandmother of Tiffany Rose Sucero ’17 Father of the late Erin Gorman ’97

Adrion Gulnick Patricia Kearns Mother of Patricia Kearns Sonzogni ’89 and Erin Kearns Conrad ’00

S

79 O

CIETY

Gail Kelly Mother of Laura Kelly ’87 and Kerry Kelly McMillin ’91

Planned Giving

Ardith Leber

Your planned gift will provide resources to the Academy of the Holy Angels that will allow us to empower future generations of young women with extraordinary resources and opportunities and will contribute to the sustainability of our mission and programs.

Our monthly blog with important topics on planned giving and resources to assist you with planning strategies can be found at holyangels.giftplans.org.

Mother of Ardith Leber Toomey ’90

Craig Lipka Father of Kensley Lipka ’15

Edward Maron Father of the late Judene Maron Baglieri ’85 and Grandfather of Michaela Maron ’17 and Erin Maron ’19

Michael McGee Father of Shannon McGee ’05

Vincent Napolitano Father of Dorothy Napolitano Mastropaolo ’82

William Nemecek Father of Anne Marie Nemecek Geene ’99

John O’Neill Grandfather of AHA Coach Jessica O’Neill Leto ’02

Henry Palczewski Father of Barbara Palczewski Waters ’80

John Riley Father of AHA staff member Carol Riley

Nora Rose Schnee Daughter of Laura Ferro Schnee ’03

Rosemarie Salvatore Mother of Rosemarie Salvatore Smith ’79 and the late Nancy Salvatore Talian ’68

Carolyn Schultz Grandmother of Hannah Schultz ’20

Isabelle Shamamian Grandmother of Meredith Shamamian ’17

Marie Smerina Grandmother of Julia Tumino ’17

Daniel Tolan Father of Jennifer Tolan Lawson ’88

Mother of Maureen Fleming ’65 and Grandmother of Jennifer Butler Kennedy ’89.

Anthony Truncellito

Patricia Fletcher

Father of Felicia Tumaneng ’03

Mother of Kimberly Fletcher ’83

Nick Vafiadis

Thomas Gallucci Son of Deborah Calabrese Gallucci ’78

Grandfather of Krystina Vafiadis ’17 and Natasha Vafiadis ’21

Judith Gibney

Richard Wejnert

Grandmother of AHA faculty member Stephanie Gibney Dowling ’08, Samantha Gibney ’13, Kristen Gibney ’15 and Danielle Gibney ’17

18

Father of Marilena Truncellito Ojeda ’82

Jose Tumaneng

Father of Tayler Wejnert ’07

21

The Academy of the Holy Angels is pleased to recognize those who have left charitable bequests, established charitable trusts, or used some other form of estate planning to support our mission.

To enroll in our 1879 Society, which honors those who have made this commitment, please download the form found at www.holyangels.org/ 1879Society and return to: AHA Office of Advancement 315 Hillside Avenue Demarest, NJ 07627 Academy of the Holy Angels has made every effort to verify the accuracy of the data contained herein. We apologize for any errors or omissions and ask that you bring them to our attention for subsequent correction.

Submissions for In Memoriam should be sent to the Office of Alumnae Relations: 315 Hillside Avenue, Demarest, NJ 07627 or email at alumnae@holyangels.org.

Special Events at HOLY ANGELS Grandparents’

day

Food Truck Festival

Mother Daughter

fashion show

International Night

Proms

2017

Non-profit Org U.S. Postage PA I D New Britain, CT Permit No.5

315 Hillside Avenue Demarest, New Jersey 07627 address services requested

there are many ways to support holy angels!

It is because of YOU that AHA graduates have the confidence, persistence and mindset to reach their goals in a chosen field and make the world a better place.

The best part, is you choose how!

Every annual gift, no matter the size, directly impacts the educational programs for our current Angels.

Athletic and Activity Programs

Annual Fund (Unrestricted) Scholarship/Financial Aid Academic Programs Spirituality and Service Programs Fine and Performing Arts Programs

Thank you for helping us educate the young women the world needs most!

GIVING

s p o n s ore d by t he school si sters of not r e d a me