Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart Magazine
A GLOBAL MINDSET
As Global Scholars, Woodlands students are leaving an indelible mark on an interdependent world. Pg. 14
Coeur à Coeur is produced by the
Garett Auriemma
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION AND MARKETING
Nikita Barnes
DIGITAL CONTENT SPECIALIST
Barrie Fromme
MARKETING COORDINATOR
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Garett Auriemma
Karishma Bhatara ’24
Maria Claro ‘24
Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D.
Elizabeth Erricolo ‘24
Barrie Fromme
Gianna Keuer ’24
Judith Koukol ’24
PHOTOGRAPHY
Garett Auriemma
Nikita Barnes
Jeff Mateer
John Rodas
James Vitullo
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Darcy Ladd/Ladder Creative
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D. HEAD OF SCHOOL
Garett Auriemma
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION AND MARKETING
Nikki Bonamarte
CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Rocco Gargiulo
ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL FOR ACADEMICS
Gretchen Radde
DIRECTOR OF ADMISSION
Christine Schmidt
ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL, DIRECTOR OF THE CENTER FOR GLOBAL STUDIES
ON THE COVER:
(l to r) Karishma Bhatara ’24, Gianna Keuer ’24, Judith Koukol ’24, and Elizabeth Erricolo ‘24
©2024 Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
All rights reserved.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mary Bernstein, RSCJ
Patricia Colbert’ 69
Niall Cullinane P’20
Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D., Head of School
Bridget Egan Albertson ’79, P’19
Ralph Elwart P’01, P’11
Ariana Gammel P’23
Luciana Kubiatowski Glunz P’26
Colm Heaney P’20, Treasurer
Jenifer Dreiling Holderman ’80
John M. Holland P’24
Joy Fiorini Kaspi ’80
Nancy Kehoe, RSCJ, Ph.D.
Hon. Susan Kennedy-Sullivan ‘70
Michael Kerns P’18
Lynda Mooney P’22
Steve Pace P’23
Tony Rettino P’22
Ennedy Rivera ’93, Secretary
Tami Hoekstra Rocha ’80, P’05
Joseph Seliga P’25
Kathryn Talty, P’24, Chair
Aimee Walters, P’23, Vice Chair
Dear Woodlands Academy families and friends,
Recently, nine of our faculty and staff participated in the Roots That Give Us Wings program hosted by the Conference of Sacred Heart Education. This program, offered in St. Louis, St. Charles, and Florissant, Missouri, provides those who are new to our school with essential information that supports the “why” behind Sacred Heart education. In sharing the story of St. Madeleine Sophie Barat and St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, the role of the Society of the Sacred Heart in our school as a sponsor, and the function of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools, the program helps to animate fidelity to mission and invigorate the future of Sacred Heart education.
In the pages that follow, you will find stories that share how we are living that mission. Traditions live on!
The Feast of Mater Admirabilis is a highlight of Sophomore year, and the Junior Ring Ceremony marks the beginning of the “transition of leadership” from one graduating class to that which will be the next. These are important “bridges” to our past and unite Woodlands graduates through shared experiences and memories.
Just as we look back at the events that have shaped the Woodlands experience across the semester just concluded, so in this issue of Coeur à Coeur we take a special look ahead to the future of Woodlands. We are so pleased to share with the community the Strategic Plan which outlines our priorities and what we are envisioning.
As this year draws to a close, I wish to thank you all who participated in the building of community in support of our students. To each alumna who attended an event or contributed to the Woodlands Fund, thank you. To every parent who has shared your greatest gift—your daughter— with this school, thank you. To each of the teachers and staff members who work tirelessly to advance the mission of Sacred Heart education here in Lake Forest, thank you. Finally, to the Board of Trustees who have been so dedicated to the envisioning process and development of the Strategic Plan, thank you. It is a privilege to work with each of you as together we plan for the next generation of Woodlands women.
United in mission,
Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D. HEAD OF SCHOOL
Class of 2024 Celebrates College Decisions
Members of Woodlands Academy Class of 2024 have had some difficult decisions to make – and most had done so by May 1, the traditional college decision day across the country. College admission applications submitted by Woodlands’ 35 seniors were accepted at a total of 123 institutions in the United States and Europe. So, which of these colleges will they ultimately attend in the fall?
2024 National Merit Scholarship recipient Gianna Keuer (see story on page 6) will attend Bowdoin College – an “historic and selective” institution in Maine, while senior Judith Koukol will be taking the all-girls education she received at Woodlands to the next level by attending Wellesley College in the fall. This all-women’s liberal arts college in Massachusetts is widely acknowledged as one of the most academically challenging institutions of higher education in the U.S. and the top women’s college in the world.
Other Woodlands seniors have committed to attend nearby institutions such as Northwestern University, Lake Forest College, Carthage College, DePaul University, Marquette University, and the University of Notre Dame, while some will be studying as far away as the University of Southern California, Gonzaga University, the University of Miami, the University of Florida, Arizona State University, Texas Christian University, the University of Arizona, and the University of Vermont.
Several regional destinations for Woodlands Academy seniors this fall include the University of Illinois/UrbanaChampaign, Indiana University, Illinois Wesleyan University, and Augustana College (see story about student-athlete Abby Hironimus on pg. 7).
Woodlands’ seniors were awarded $2.5 million in scholarships, including Salome Diaz-Rojas’ Western Golf Association Evans Scholarship to the University of Illinois/Chicago. This prestigious award is a full housing and tuition college grant offered to golf caddies.
“The Woodlands Class of 2024 has a bright future ahead of them,” Woodlands Academy Director of College Counseling Brendan Bond said. “The diverse and excellent group of colleges and universities they will attend in the fall reflects the hard work and growth they’ve shown during their time at Woodlands, along with the support from our wonderful faculty and staff and our students’ families. I am proud of the Class of 2024. They have taught me a lot, and they are ready to have success in college and beyond.”
A complete listing of the Class of 2024’s college matriculation decisions—as well as a photo recap of their June 6 graduation ceremony—will appear in the next issue of Coeur a Coeur
Woodlands Academy Senior Awarded National Merit Scholarship
A member of the Woodlands Academy Class of 2024 has joined an elite group by receiving a highly prestigious cash award from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Gianna Keuer is among the 2,500 merit scholars nationwide who received a scholarship this year. These awards can be spent at any regionally accredited college or university in the United States.
Keuer will attend Bowdoin College – a “historic and selective” institution in Maine – majoring in government and legal studies.
The $2,500 awards announced on May 8 are financed from the corporation’s funds, some of which come from donations or from business and company foundations
that provide grants rather than administrative fees. National Merit Scholarship winners are chosen by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors based on application materials from the students and their schools.
“We at Woodlands Academy are so proud of Gianna,” said Head of School Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D. “The National Merit Scholarship is awarded to a select group of students who demonstrate outstanding potential and intellectual prowess. Gianna’s inclusion in this select group speaks volumes about her talents and perseverance. Her success is not only a reflection on her dedication to academic pursuits, but also serves as an inspiration to the entire Woodlands Academy community.”
Earlier this school year, Keuer was named a National Merit Semifinalist, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. She then advanced to the Finalist round in February based on her academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.
(L to R) Head of School Dr. Susan Tyree Dempf, Gianna Keuer ‘24, and Associate Head of School for Academics Rocco Gargiulo.
“[Abby] shares our priorities and goals in the classroom and on the diamond.”
—
COACH JOHN NELSON, AUGUSTANA COLLEGE
Woodlands Student-Athlete Signs on for Softball at Augustana
Woodlands Academy senior Abby Hironimus was joined by her parents and brother, as well as former Woodlands Athletic Director Rosemary Briesch, for an on-campus celebration on December 12, when she officially signed a letter of intent to continue her academic career and to play softball collegiately at Augustana College starting this fall.
Woodlands Athletic Director Dana Daly told those gathered, “I am excited for Abby. Clearly, she knows how to work hard, persevere through trials, and endure with grit. These qualities helped Abby to be a successful softball player throughout high school, and I know that they will carry her through Augustana, too.”
Abby was honored as a 1A All-State 2nd Team member in 2023 and has made All-Conference for the past three years. She was named as MVP of Woodlands’ softball team in her junior year.
“We are beyond excited and honored to have Abby Hironimus join our softball team in the fall of 2024,”
shared Augustana College Softball Coach John Nelson. He continued, noting:
“Abby has shown us beyond the shadow of a doubt that she is the kind of student-athlete we want as a part of the Augustana College Softball family. She shares our priorities and goals in the classroom and on the diamond. Her physical softball abilities are undeniable, but her intangible qualities drew our attention more than anything else. She is a selfless player who gives maximum effort, hustles everywhere she goes, handles failure like a champion, and is a servant leader to her team. Her positive attitude and high softball IQ will drive our team to a higher level of play and bring us closer to winning an NCAA Division III National Championship.”
Congratulations to Abby for her dedication and contributions both in the classroom and on the field!
Woodlands Receives Top Recognition by AP School Honor Roll
Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart has been recognized by the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll as a “Platinum w/Access”-level school for 2023. This is the highest level of recognition offered by the program, awarded to only 4% of eligible schools in Illinois and 6% of schools nationally.
Schools earn their place on the AP School Honor Roll annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.
One hundred percent of students in the Woodlands Academy class of 2023 took at least one AP exam during their time at Woodlands; 83% of them scored a “3” or higher on at least one AP exam; and 53% took five or more AP exams.
This year’s AP exams were administered in May, at which time 73% percent of Woodlands students took at least
one exam in one or more of 27 different subject areas administered.
Taking AP courses demonstrates to college admissions officers that students have sought the most challenging curriculum available to them. Research indicates that students who score a 3 or higher on an AP exam typically experience greater academic success in college and are more likely to earn a college degree than non-AP students.
Woodlands Academy is one of only 23 high schools in Illinois to achieve Platinum recognition on the AP School Honor Roll, and one of only 11 high schools to achieve Platinum w/Access recognition. Schools earn the additional AP Access Award if the percentage of AP exam takers who are underrepresented minority and/or low-income students mirrors the school’s overall student demographics.
Woodlands Academy Wins First Place at Archdiocesan Math Comptetition
A team of six Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart students won first-place honors in their division at this year’s Archdiocese of Chicago math competition held at Loyola University-Chicago’s Crown Center. MathCats team members freshman Amelie Chew, sophomore Maggie Glunz, freshman Madeleine Lillis, junior Fiona McNulty, and sophomores Emmy Seliga and Maya Whiteman competed against students from three other Chicago area Catholic high schools in Division A at the February 3 event. Individual honors included a first-place finish by Whiteman, a third-place finish by Glunz, and a fourthplace finish by Seliga.
“It was truly a team effort, as we are a young team composed of mostly freshmen and sophomores competing against seniors,” Shao-Yun Guo, Woodlands Academy math teacher/MathCats co-moderator, said. “I could tell from the morning that our team was excited about this contest. We were working hard up to the contest, figuring questions out and trying to help each other learn.”
The Archdiocese of Chicago math contest, held annually since 1967, took place at the end of this year’s Catholic Schools Week celebrating Catholic education in the United States.
Woodlands Academy MathCats
(from left) Amelie Chew, Maggie Glunz, Fiona McNulty, Maya Whiteman, Emmy Seliga, and Madeleine Lillis
Woodlands Seniors Recognized as State Scholars
Ten members of Woodlands Academy’s senior class achieved Illinois State Scholar status. This designation by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) recognizes exceptional academic achievement that indicates an especially high potential for success in college.
Woodlands Academy’s recipients this year were Karishma Bhatara, Megan Caserio, Teresa Ciaglo, Abigail Hironimus, Janel Ivy, Gianna Keuer, Judith Koukol, Kaley Meister, Kathleen O’Donnell, and Aanya Sahu.
“I am so very proud of our State Scholars for achieving this recognition of all their hard work and outstanding academic
performance during their years at Woodlands Academy,” said Associate Head of School for Academics Rocco Gargiulo.
“I’d also like to thank our faculty members for creating an environment that prepares girls for college and beyond by empowering them to lead, compete, engage, and explore.”
The Illinois State Scholar designation is a non-monetary award. Honorees receive a congratulatory letter and Certificate of Achievement from ISAC. They can download an official Illinois State Scholar badge to display on their online profiles and social media platforms. It also can be shared with their high school counselors, colleges, employers, and others.
Woodlands Academy’s State Scholars (from left) Gianna Keuer, Karishma Bhatara, Janel Ivy, Abby Hironimus, Teresa Ciaglo, Kate O’Donnell, Megan Caserio, and Kaley Meister.
Not pictured: Judith Koukol and Aanya Sahu.
Woodlands Students Give Back During Service Day
Service is an integral part of a Woodlands Academy education. Goal III of all Sacred Heart schools is “to educate to a social awareness which impels to action.” With this in mind, sophomores and seniors lent a helping hand at some area service organizations on February 22—one of two Service Days held during the school year. Meanwhile, freshmen and juniors–who helped in the community during the school’s first Service Day in September—participated in retreat activities this time.
“We do this twice each school year with the hope that the girls gain a greater understanding of themselves and see the difference they can make in the lives of others,” said Erin Brysiewicz, Woodlands Academy’s service coordinator. “I’m so very proud of our sophomores and seniors who did truly awesome work during this year’s final Service Day.”
Students began their day on campus making blankets and writing messages for hospitalized children.
Sophomores spent the rest of the day volunteering at Lake Bluff-based Bernie’s Book Bank and the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s North Suburban Distribution Center in Lake Forest. Bernie’s Book Bank distributes quality children’s books throughout Chicagoland free of charge to empower children to gain knowledge and strengthen reading skills through book ownership. Northern Illinois Food Bank focuses on delivering food and healthy eating services as part of the national Feeding America network. It provides some 250,000 meals daily to residents of 13 northeastern Illinois counties.
Academy seniors
Woodlands Academy seniors participated in Service Day by sorting and packaging donations at Cradles to Crayons in Chicago that will be sent to needy children. Cradles to Crayons provides essential items free of charge to children from birth through age 12 living in homeless or low-income situations. These items include books, toys, and children’s clothing. The seniors then returned to school to make dinner for The Haven, a local women’s shelter.
Woodlands Academy’s service program seeks to raise students’ consciousness about the poor, the marginalized, and the disadvantaged while encouraging them to promote social justice and social responsibility. Woodlands students must perform at least 70 hours of community service to graduate. Many become passionate about service and far exceed the required minimum hours.
Woodlands
pictured with their advisor, Brendan Bond (from left) Teresa Ciaglo, Kaley Meister, Greer Talty, Caroline Holland, Elizabeth Erricolo, Vicky Nguyen, Alexandra Piccolo, Regan Stewart and Abby Greene.
In Case You Missed It...
The last several months have seen a flurry of fun activities for current families, alumnae, and other friends of Woodlands. Did you take part in them? We were so happy to see you, and we hope you had a great time! Did you miss any of them? Don’t worry—there are a lot more to come!
Trivia Night
The decades—and some amazing feats of knowledge—were on full display at Woodlands’ first Trivia Night on January 20. Questions ranged from science and geography to television theme songs! Themed tables (and costumes!) spanned the decades—including the grungy ‘90s and the Space Race of the ‘60s. We even spotted Bueller…Bueller? and some other ‘80s icons. This may have been our first Trivia Night, but it definitely wasn’t our last.
Sip ‘n’ Paint
An evening of mini masterpieces and luscious libations highlighted our January 26 “Sip ‘n’ Paint” gathering. Special thanks to Woodlands Art teachers Justin Goh and Deb MacAyeal for leading the group.
Bagels, Blossoms, and Bloody Marys
Woodlands alumnae gathered on campus for Earth Day to plant the first flowers of the season at our “Bagels, Blossoms, and Bloody Marys” event on April 22. Alumnae planted blue hyacinths, for it was in a garden of these flowers in 1882 that Founding Mother Janet Erskine Stuart experienced a life-changing insight through which she knew and embraced the vocation to which God was calling her. Thanks to everyone who came out to make our campus even more beautiful!
Theatrical Productions
“Ohmigod, You Guys”...Woodlands students were feeling in the pink when they presented “Legally Blonde: The Musical” in three SOLD-OUT shows in February and March. Special thanks to everyone who joined us at the March 1 Alumnae Night. It was so great to see you back on campus, and we hope you enjoyed the show!
Of course, “Legally Blonde” wasn’t our only stage production of the year. Back in November, we were transported back to 19th century England for “Emma,” a comic romp with the charming, witty, somewhat power-hungry, but mostly well-intentioned Emma Woodhouse as our guide.
To the cast and crew of both stellar productions, we say “Brava!”
Imagine Yourself in the C-Suite
On March 13, Woodlands Academy welcomed Claire Pomeroy, MD, MBA, president of the Albert and Mary Lasker Foundation, as our special guest for “Imagine Yourself in the C-Suite.” As part of the “C-Suite” series, Woodlands invites female executives to share stories and insights from their professional experiences during presentations to students.
These presentations by female CEOs and executives who share their success stories – as well as the failures that helped shape their professional development – are meant to inspire achievement, build confidence, and encourage girls to forge pathways to excellence. The session was hosted and moderated by Woodlands alumna Tyler Johnson, class of 2009.
Following her talk, Dr. Pomeroy took questions from Woodlands students. Thanks to Dr. Pomeroy and Ms. Johnson for an engaging and enlightening evening!
Want to make sure to be “in the know” about upcoming Woodlands events?
Send an email to Chief Development Officer Nikki Bonamarte at nbonamarte@woodlandsacademy.org. Be sure to also follow us on Instagram and Facebook for all of the latest news, events, and happenings!
A Global Mindset
Woodlands Academy’s Global Scholars Program equips students with the necessary skills and experience to be leaders in the competitive and challenging 21st century. It exposes them to different cultures, languages, and perspectives. As a result, Global Scholars come away with a deeper understanding of the complex web of cultural, religious, social, economic, and scientific issues that are the trademarks of our global world.
Students with a demonstrated interest in global issues and affairs apply for the Global Scholar program during their junior year. In doing so, they commit to rigorous coursework and language study as well as participation in service to a global community and extracurricular activities.
By successfully completing the program’s requirements, each senior received a Global Scholars certification on her high school diploma. Five members of the Woodlands Class of 2024 completed the requirements to be named a Global Scholar. For this issue of Coeur a Coeur, we asked each 2024 Global Scholar to reflect on her project and on what the Global Scholars distinction means to her.
KARISHMA
BHATARA
The wonderful part of Woodland’s community is the opportunity to learn from those around you. I remember the first global scholar presentation I heard during my freshman year from a member of the class of 2021, and that day, I told myself that I wanted to be a Global Scholar for my class, the class of 2024.
I spent my summers seeking out opportunities to deepen my knowledge of medicine. I took courses to deepen my knowledge academically, whether it was through learning about health disparities and the barriers to care through my Global Health course or getting accepted to the Johns Hopkins Global Health Leadership Conference the summer before senior year to engage in dialogue about global health with leading professors from Harvard, Stanford, and Yale.
My favorite activity throughout high school has been working with our local Lake Forest Fire Department. Not only were they my mentors and teachers, but while working and training
with them, hand in hand, for the past three years, I gained an insight into the department, the people, and the needs of our local community. Through my time there, I learned about the Bystander Effect, a principle of psychology that states that in the presence of others, individuals are less likely to help someone in distress.
Learning about this at the fire department and in my courses made me want to do something about it. I decided that my capstone project would be a series of CPR clinics. In May of 2023, I met with my mentor, Dr. Kusevskis, Woodlands’ dean of students, and planned out the dates for our CPR clinics. After determining the dates, I worked with the fire department to coordinate certification courses, class capacities, rosters, and finances to ensure this project could be affordable and accessible to all.
Each faculty, staff member, parent, or student that signed up completed an online course and a hands-on training. We
trained them on proper CPR techniques, choking hazards, child and infant CPR, and proper AED (automatic external defibrillator) use. My goal was to educate the Woodlands community about how to take action in an emergency and to ensure that they didn’t just remain a bystander but could intervene anywhere in the world if necessary. Thanks to the amazing community at Woodlands, we certified over 20% of the school community and raised more than $500 for the Lake Forest Fire Department’s Public Safety Fund.
As I leave the Woodlands community and enter college, I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead of me, but I will never forget the wonderful experiences I have had, especially as a Global Scholar. The knowledge taught to those who were willing to learn about the bystander effect will compound and have a global effect, and in the future regardless of where one's path may take them, they can use their knowledge to save a life.
MARIA CLARO
My journey as a global citizen began at a young age, fueled by a passion for immersing myself in diverse cultures and communities. Whether volunteering in different countries or forging friendships with people from around the world, I've always believed in the power of empathy and understanding to bridge divides. This open-mindedness, I believe, is crucial for creating a more peaceful world.
During the summer before my senior year, volunteering at the World Youth Day in Lisbon was a transformative experience. It brought together millions of young people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their faith and sense of belonging to the global community. Witnessing this unity reinforced my belief in the importance of fostering dialogue and solidarity across borders.
My Global Scholar investigation delved into the poignant issue of Christian persecution, shedding light on the challenges faced by communities in regions like Nigeria and North Korea. Through research and advocacy, I sought to amplify awareness and support for those enduring religious persecution. By highlighting the interconnectedness of human rights and
religious freedom, I aimed to inspire global action and promote justice on a global scale.
In addition, the installation of the red-painted Christ statue within our school resonates deeply with the ethos of the “RedWeek” initiative, symbolizing the universality of religious freedom and the shared responsibility to defend it. This initiative, akin to the mission as Global Scholars, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made to preserve religious liberty worldwide. Through its vivid hue and prominent placement, the statue challenges us to confront indifference and advocate for the marginalized.
In aligning with the Sacred Heart Goals, my journey as a Global Scholar reflects a deep respect for intellectual values and a commitment to social awareness that impels to action. It underscores the importance of building community and fostering personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom. As I continue my education and pursue my aspirations beyond high school, I carry with me the lessons learned as a Global Scholar—lessons of empathy, advocacy, and the unwavering belief in the power of global solidarity to effect positive change.
In the future, I hope to continue advocating for human rights and promoting intercultural understanding. Whether through further education, community engagement, or global initiatives, I remain committed to upholding the principles of the Global Scholars program and contributing to the collective effort of building a more just and inclusive world. life.
ELIZABETH ERRICOLO
The first time I walked into Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart, I was immediately drawn to the multicultural diversity represented by the flags of the countries of birth or dual citizenship of the students, faculty, and staff. During my initial Open House visit, I learned that the multicultural diversity is not only reflected in the international students who attend Woodlands, but also in the global exchanges available through the Network of Sacred Heart Schools, the Global Odyssey programs required for graduation, and the Global Scholars program. continued on next page
Service has been an integral part of my journey towards becoming a Global Scholar. My significant service primarily centered around juveniles. For example, I worked as a camp counselor with Camp Trek, sponsored by the Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association, which “introduces youth with disabilities to sport and recreation activities in an inclusive environment.” I also volunteered with organizations that address food insecurity among juveniles including Feed My Starving Children providing nutritious meals for malnourished children in nearly 70 countries, and Fill a Heart 4 Kids, founded by a Woodlands alumna, which provides support to homeless, at risk, and foster children.
My journey reflects my deep-rooted passion for understanding and addressing pressing global issues, particularly juvenile justice. To deepen my knowledge of global juvenile justice issues, I applied for, and participated, in the Network of Sacred Heart Schools Summer Service Project on Juvenile Justice. This experience exposed me to the complexities of our approach to juvenile offenders, the consideration of victims and their rights, and society’s interest in a just society.
We looked at the juvenile justice system in Illinois, and how our punitive approach addresses juvenile offenders. Contrasting the punitive approach of the U.S. system with the more rehabilitative approaches of countries like Sweden highlighted the need for reform and inspired me to further explore alternative models.
Additionally, speakers from Kolbe House Jail Ministries and Precious Blood Ministries provided me with firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals and families impacted by the juvenile justice system. It reinforced my belief in the importance of addressing systemic issues and advocating for marginalized communities.
The Summer Service Project ignited a desire in me to advocate for more compassionate and effective solutions and led me to take a Social Justice class and continue my research. As a result, I and a classmate, with guidance from our teacher, drafted a legislative bill to reappropriate funds from the juvenile justice system to the Boys & Girls Clubs to have a community-based program to address the root causes of why juveniles commit crimes.
Being a Global Scholar has set me on the road to become an advocate for marginalized communities. I intend to continue my social justice mission in college and beyond. My journey has just begun.
GIANNA KEUER
One of my favorite things about Woodlands is its commitment to global education. I’ve always wanted to take advantage of the many opportunities Woodlands offers to develop an understanding of the world, so I was excited to apply to the Global Scholars program last year! The global scholars program entails six requirements: Language Study, Global Courses, Capstone Course/Project, Global Immersion, Service, and Extracurricular. Working towards each of these requirements has helped me develop skills that have shaped my high school experience and will help me pursue my future goals.
The Language requirement includes four years of study in one international language. I completed this requirement during my junior year when I completed AP Spanish. The Global Courses requirement is something I’ve met throughout my four years at Woodlands by taking advanced, globally-oriented courses like AP World or AP Environmental Science. I met my Capstone Course requirement through my dual enrollment at Harper College during my Junior and Senior years. I took Global Politics (an international relations course focused on international institutions and diplomacy.) My Global Politics class was the most challenging of my dual enrollment courses, but it also had the biggest impact on my understanding of politics and social issues beyond the U.S. During this course, students were assigned a country that they would represent at a mock United Nations conference. We would then have graded Zoom sessions where we would defend the interests of our assigned country in a specific context.
For our final, I represented the United Kingdom in a mock UN Security Council meeting, where I got to help draft a resolution relating to the disputed Senkaku islands in the East China Sea. I liked how the course challenged me to take on the perspectives of leaders in different nations, which has helped me better understand international politics. I learned so much about game theory and economics through this course, and I loved the opportunity to apply those concepts to real-world situations.
I’ve met the Global Immersion requirement by participating in Sacred Heart LIVE and Sacred Heart Global Academy. I appreciated the opportunity to engage with other Sacred Heart students around the world through a virtual exchange. I met the Service requirement by volunteering as an intern for Fortaleza and HOPE’S IN, a nonprofit organization in Zone 3 of Guatemala City. As part of the Extracurricular requirement, I’m working on a reflection regarding my internship with Fortaleza.
Over the past summer, I traveled to Guatemala as a “HOPE’S INtern” to help pilot an internship program for high school and college students who are similarly passionate about positive social change. I’ve been able to develop my Spanish-speaking skills by working as a translator, I’ve learned so much about Guatemalan history and politics, and I’ve gained a better understanding of the obstacles that girls my age face in Zone 3. In college, I plan to continue as an intern for Fortaleza and make a positive impact on the world through a career in law.
I’m extremely grateful for the chance to participate in the Global Scholars program and for all of the ways Woodlands has prepared me to be a leader and an advocate for positive change.
JUDITH KOUKOL
The world produces enough food to feed all of its eight billion people, yet 828 million go hungry every day. 2.3 billion people – 29.6% of the global population – do not have adequate access to food. While for many, getting food is as simple as pressing a few buttons and then receiving an estimated delivery time, for others the estimated delivery time is never.
With Woodlands’ Global Scholars program, I have had the opportunity to dive deeper into global food insecurities. While volunteering at Promiseland Community Garden in Joliet, Illinois over the summer, I noticed that once the food was harvested there would be a waiting period of when the food would reach local food banks, shelters, soup kitchens, and other sites that provide food. As a result, some of them would wind up going bad and have to be thrown out. I thought there must be a
way for people to have faster access to the food once it is ready.
My research led me to micropantries. Similar to Little Free Libraries, they are smaller than entire pantries and allow for items to be placed inside for people to take without individuals feeling any sort of judgment. Additionally, people can drop off food at a micropantry, resulting in a stable source of food for an entire community. This was a concept that I wanted to explore.
St. Stanislaus Kostka Providence Soup Kitchen, located in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago, serves over 21,000 meals per year. With many individuals coming in who may only be receiving the meal that the soup kitchen provides, I thought a micropantry would allow individuals to have smaller food items that they can take with them. The hope is that a micropantry will ensure that people who depend on the soup kitchen are not going hungry between meals.
While learning about the many organizations that are working with nations around the world to address food insecurities, I found myself seeing the connections the Global Scholars Program has to the Sacred Heart’s Goals and Criteria. It became apparent to me that we must come together to build communities in which we not only understand global hunger but also find ways to make a real difference, starting at the local level.
As a Global Scholar, perhaps what I will remember most is the conversations I have had throughout this journey. Whether talking with individuals at Promiseland about how to ensure food is making it to local food banks in a timely fashion, or with Father Anthony Buś at St. Stanislaus Kostka about the need for food beyond the meals provided, it is through these discussions that I have found a calling to become an active participant in the fight to end hunger.
Just before departing Woodlands Academy March 15 after a two-week visit, sophomores from Sacré Coeur Wien in Austria taught their sister Sacred Heart school students some basic steps of the Viennese Waltz during an all-school assembly in the gym.
Woodlands Hosts Students from Viennese “Sister School”
Since its inception in 2008, the ongoing exchange program between Sacred Heart sister schools Woodlands Academy and Sacré Coeur Wien in Vienna, Austria, has generated many invaluable academic and cultural experiences, including the lasting friendships that students and teachers alike have made. In March, the Woodlands community welcomed 12 Austrian sophomores and their two teacher/ chaperones for a two-week visit.
The guest students included four boys from the co-ed Austrian school. Despite some differences between schools in the two countries, the Austrian students assimilated quickly into their Woodlands Academy routine. Some of them credit the built-in Sacred Heart connection.
Austrian and Woodlands students agree that this connection means there is comfort and security in knowing that all are members of the same family. The students feel connected and valued, and they describe an automatic bond and a feeling of being “at home” with one another. Caring and being cared for are profound Sacred Heart values.
During their visit, the Viennese students attended classes with their Woodlands student hosts. They stayed in the Woodlands residence halls during the first week of their visit and then in the homes of student hosts during the second week. Their classroom activities included sharing various aspects of Austrian life, such as the country’s history, traditions, landmarks, and arts and culture.
In addition, the Viennese delegation shared in a variety of
local experiences, such as a walking tour of the Chicago Loop, visits to the Art Institute and Museum of Science & Industry, seeing “In the Heights” at the Marriot Lincolnshire Theatre, attending a Milwaukee Bucks basketball game, and a visit to Bernie’s Book Bank in Lake Bluff.
Just before their departure, Woodlands Academy’s Austrian guests taught the entire student body some basic steps of the Viennese Waltz during an all-school assembly in the gym.
This year’s exchange began in September when 11 Woodlands students traveled to their sister school in Vienna for a fun, educational and culturally enriching 10-day experience. During their time there, they learned how Austrian teenagers live, study and spend their free time. All students who participate in this exchange program create friendships that continue long after returning to their home countries.
The exchange continues next school year when a delegation of Woodlands students will spend two weeks at Sacré Coeur Wien in the fall, followed by a visit from the Austrian school in March 2025.
“Woodlands Academy is committed to international Sacred Heart exchange,” said Associate Head of School and Director of the Center for Global Studies Christine Schmidt. “The Network of Sacred Heart Schools believes that global education awakens students and the larger community to the responsibility of participating actively in the human family worldwide.”
Mater Ceremony
Parents and other guests joined the Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart community on October 20 for the Mater Admirabilis Liturgy, which celebrates the drawing of the sophomore class more deeply into the family of the Sacred Heart.
This Woodlands tradition marks a student’s transition from her time as a child to her emergence as a woman of the Sacred Heart who recognizes the lasting gift of her Sacred Heart education.
During the ceremony, each sophomore received a medal depicting the image of Mater Admirablis (Mother most Admirable), who is the patroness of Woodlands Academy. It symbolizes the student’s transformation and calls on her to be a resilient, innovative young woman who bases her life on the values of the Sacred Heart.
Congé
On February 24, more than 240 guests joined us at the Glen View Club for our annual Congé gala. Together, we raised more than $375,000 in person and through online auction bids. Thanks to all who made the evening such a success through their generous support and participation! Special kudos to our gifted student musicians who captivated our guests with their performances.
Beyond a fabulous party, Congé serves as Woodlands’ largest fundraising event of the year. The proceeds from the gala help to bridge the gap between what is paid as the full tuition amount and the actual cost to educate a student. It is through the school’s fundraising efforts, such as Congé and the Woodlands Fund, that the gap between what is paid in tuition and what is truly spent to educate a student is offset.
Junior Ring Ceremony
Junior Ring Ceremony, one of the most significant days of a girl’s time at Woodlands Academy, marks the turning point in a student’s time at a Sacred Heart school. The class rings and Philippine Duchesne medals presented at the March 1 ceremony, planned and hosted by the senior class, are reminders of the strong bond students feel within the walls of Woodlands Academy and the entire Sacred Heart community.
Senior Aanya Sahu, this year’s Woodlands Academy Council of Representatives president, opened the program by reflecting on what last year’s presentations meant to her. “It was at this ceremony when I understood the value of all the relationships I formed with the people here at Woodlands,” she said. “Look around. The girls sitting next to you have never left your side, and they never will. So, celebrate today. Celebrate each other, the bonds you have formed as a class and with our entire community.”
Each ring bears the Sacred Heart symbol of two embracing hearts, which are signs of love, friendship and unity. Each junior wears her ring with the hearts facing in toward her heart. Once she graduates, she turns the ring around as a challenge to reach out to others and share Sacred Heart traditions and values.
Dear Friends and Family of Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart,
Woodlands Academy has a strong history of evolution and growth. Over the last 140 years, we’ve moved from our first home in Chicago, adopted the name Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart, expanded our campus, and enriched our academic offerings. All of this was done to better serve our students and maintain the standards of an elite educational institution. Today, we are ranked as the top Catholic school in Illinois and 22nd best in the entire nation. Our commitment to seek new opportunities, pursue new ideas, and embrace new challenges has allowed us to continually grow and improve. And we’re not done. We are excited to present our 2024 Strategic Plan, the next chapter in the Woodlands Academy story. Our vision is to be a leading private, faith-based high school for girls, with a focus on individualized education that nurtures the formation of mind, body, and spirit. We believe this plan supports that vision and will lead to a bright future for our students, school, and community.
We want to thank everyone who has shared their insights with us throughout the process, whether answering an online survey, participating in a phone interview, or sending us your comments or concerns. Our wonderful Woodlands family is part of what makes our school so special and successful, and we’re looking forward to continued success in partnership with all of you as we execute our 2024 Strategic Plan.
Sincerely,
The Strategic Planning Committee
Woodlands Academy
2024 Strategic Plan
INTRODUCTION
The 2024 Strategic Plan will act as a forward-facing roadmap to ensure continued progress and prosperity for Woodlands Academy. We strive to expand upon the achievements of the 2023 Strategic Plan, which included the creation of The Center for Global Studies, more robust professional development opportunities for our faculty, and the strengthening of our academic program. These initiatives have helped equip our students with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive and connected world. Now we look to build upon these successes.
The 2024 plan is the culmination of a two-year extensive and inclusive journey centered on listening to the people of Woodlands Academy, including current and prospective students and families, alumnae, leaders from local middle schools, school administration, and all board members. Informed by the experiences and perspectives of our community, the planning committee, members of the board, and our consultants put together a robust plan to guide the future of Woodlands Academy.
2024 STRATEGIC PLAN PRIORITIES
We have identified five core strategic priorities to ensure the continued success and growth of Woodlands Academy:
Strong Enrollment:
Our students are the lifeblood of our school. They embody and enliven our mission, values, and culture. We must continue to attract and enroll mission-aligned students through an enrollment management culture that maintains – and grows –our exceptional student body.
How we’ll achieve this:
• Build the Woodlands Academy brand to strengthen awareness and demonstrate the value proposition, including the benefits of learning in the Sacred Heart tradition.
• Identify and attract students in the middle school years through school visits, prospective parent cocktail parties, social media campaigns, and strong relationships with local middle schools.
• Expand middle school programming and experiences on campus, including community partnership programs and summer camps.
• Attract girls from across the country and around the world to join our leading boarding program.
• Promote and support academic excellence with an emphasis on individualized student experiences.
FINANCIAL STRENGTH:
Strong financial health allows us to do everything we need to live out our mission and best serve our students inside and outside of the classroom. It is important that we move beyond short-term stability to reach long-term economic sustainability.
How we’ll achieve this:
• Optimize tuition and tuition assistance so every mission-aligned girl can attend Woodlands Academy.
• Create a culture of philanthropy to increase fundraising revenue, understanding that philanthropic support is essential to the success of our independent school.
• Increase awareness of the Woodlands Fund and its important role in supplementing tuition income to help ensure strong student outcomes and cultivate a lifelong commitment to the Sacred Heart tradition.
• Commit to the growth of Endowment giving.
FACULTY EXCELLENCE:
Woodlands Academy teachers are the best of the best. They instruct and inspire our students every day with the support of the entire staff. We must attract, retain, and support faculty and staff who embody the Goals & Criteria of Sacred Heart Education.
How we’ll achieve this:
• Provide additional professional development opportunities to increase knowledge of differentiated instruction and new skills.
• Grow our focus on college readiness and strong college acceptances, including opportunities for dual credit, independent study, and research.
• Provide opportunities for all new faculty and staff to attend annual network-wide Sacred Heart conferences, further immersing them in the Sacred Heart culture.
• Develop new ways to allow students to pursue their passions and distinguish themselves through STEM, the fine arts, the humanities, and service.
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT:
Happy, productive, and engaged students are essential to a thriving school community. We want our students to enjoy their time both inside and outside the classroom. We will enhance the Woodlands student experience to promote social, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
How we’ll achieve this:
• Create a vibrant, enduring culture of joy-filled engagement through House experiences, social events, the big sister / little sister program, and more.
• Create a system that recognizes individual student contributions of leadership, philanthropy, and kindness.
• Promote and encourage contemporary connections to our Sacred Heart history and traditions.
CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT:
Beautiful surroundings create a positive learning environment for our students. Woodlands Academy’s tree-filled campus and beautiful facilities must be maintained and enhanced through ongoing investment in our buildings and grounds.
How we’ll achieve this:
• Renovate residential life spaces for students and staff to enhance individual and community experiences and provide a more contemporary living and learning environment.
• Update academic and community areas to facilitate a vibrant student experience.
• Enhance spaces through new furniture and air conditioning to better support student focus, interaction, and learning.
We hope you are as excited as we are about this forward-focused plan for Woodlands Academy’s future. School leadership has already begun the work needed to achieve our goals. We have prioritized tasks, assigned ownership, and kicked things off! And we’re already seeing results, including enhanced WiFi in the dorm and upgraded kitchen and dining spaces. We look forward to what’s to come, and thank you for your continued support.
In Memoriam:
(January 1, 2023 - February 29, 2024)
Rosemary Bearss, RSCJ
Former Trustee
Mrs. Alice Brennan
Friend
Ms. Betsy Burke ‘67
Alumna
Carol Campbell, RSCJ
Former Trustee, Former Head Mistress
Mrs. Katherine Carlson Coleman ‘60
Alumna
Mr. George Casey
Father of Faculty Member Christine Zapf
Mr. William Crane
Friend
Martha Curry, RSCJ
Former Trustee, Barat Alumna
Mr. Terrence Desmond G’24
Grandparent
Mrs. Mercedes Foley P’83
Former Parent
Mr. Randy Gretz P’02
Former Parent
Mr. Joseph Hickey
Parent of Faculty Member Matthew Hickey
Mr. Joseph G. Krakora P’72, P’76, G’01, G’04, G’11
Former Parent and Former Grandparent
Ms. Susan Krakora ‘72 P’01, P’04, P’11
Alumna, Former Trustee and Former Parent
Mrs. Barbara Lyden P’74, G’01
Former Parent, Grandparent and Former Faculty Member
Ms. Megan McGrath ‘95
Alumna
Mrs. Susan Brennan Morrison ‘69
Alumna
Ms. Kathleen Needham
Mother-in-Law of Bernice Gallagher ‘61
Mr. Thomas Ohlwein
Spouse of Faculty Member Christine Ohlwein
Ms. Lori Parker-Psencik P’25
Parent
Mr. Peter Popit P’05
Parent
Mrs. Blanche Guerin Rockwell ‘43
Alumna
Mr. Bruce Schmidt
Relative of Faculty Member Christine Schmidt
Mr. Timothy Sheaff
Spouse of Former Faculty Member Christine Sheaff
The Honorable Daniel J. Sullivan
Spouse of Current Trustee The Honorable Susan Kenney-Sullivan ‘70
Ms. Mary Sullivan ‘57
Alumna
Mrs. Joanne Collins Unkovskoy ‘49 P’77
Alumna and Former Parent
Mrs. Nancy Van Der Bosch P’88
Former Parent
Mrs. Elizabeth Brown Verkler ‘72
Alumna
Mr. Alain Wood-Prince P’75, G’17
Former Parent, Former Grandparent, and Spouse of Trustee Barbara Jones Wood-Prince ‘54
Mr. James Wright P’86
Former Parent
AUGUST
Family Mass and All-School Picnic
SEPTEMBER
Woodlands Academy Alumnae Association Meeting
Parents of Alumnae Courtyard Cocktail Reception
Mass of the Holy Spirit and Flag Ceremony
Reunion Weekend (4’s and 9’s)
OCTOBER
Barat Society Cocktail Reception
Current Parent Coffee & Conversation
Fall Music Concert
Mater Admirabilis Liturgy
Trivia Night (21+)
Fall Play
NOVEMBER
All Saints Day Liturgy
Admissions Open House
Grandparents’ Day/St. Rose Philippine Duchesne
Feast Day Liturgy (Observed)
DECEMBER
Current Parent Coffee &
Christmas Music Concert
Advent by Candlelight
“For the sake of one child, I would have started the Society.”
Two hundred years ago, our foundress, St. Madeleine Sophie Barat, made that bold statement, and for over 160 years, we have made it our mission to value, understand, nurture, challenge, and love each of our girls as if she were the only one.
Your sustaining support of the Woodlands Fund benefits every student, every day, by supporting curricular and cocurricular programs, state-of-the-art science laboratories, and our exceptional teachers.
At Woodlands Academy, a young woman thrives thanks to your generosity. She is our mission. She is our priority. She is our future.
To make your gift to the Woodlands Fund, please scan the QR code at right, visit woodlandsacademy.org/donate, or use the envelope inside this issue of Coeur à Coeur.
