Russo Moulthrop, PhD ’91: Opening Doors to Advocacy Leadership
Dorothy
8 Dorothy Russo Moulthrop PhD ’91: Opening Doors
Published for alumnae, parents and friends of Beaumont School.
Wendy A. Hoke President
Patricia Clair Director of Advancement
Barbara Brown Director of Marketing/Editor
Julie Olack Marketing Coordinator
Kristin Krebs ’93 Marketing Associate
Courtenay Hinton, AM Design Design
Allen Graphics Printing
Contributors: Al Fuchs, Rob Wetzler, Ripcho Studio
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Suzanne Hanselman, Board Chair
Dorothy Russo Moulthrop, PhD ’91 Board Vice Chair
Wendy Hoke, President
Sister Laura Bregar, OSU
Beth Baker Carlton ’95
Louise Hurley Clemens ’84
Gerard Daher
Sister Annemarie Diederich, OSU ’61
Thomas Gill
Toya Purnell Gorley ’89
Sister Joanne Gross, OSU
Joseph Hahn, MD
Gina Huffman ’84
Shannon Jerse
Eliot Kijewski
Emily Lauer
Margaux Murphy
Barbara Paynter
Janet Schuster
Kevin Thomas
Message from the President
“We believe deeply that the ability to find your voice and your confidence begins in the environment that an all-girl’s education provides. Beaumont School creates space where young women can breathe and lean into learning and what it means to lead as a woman of purpose, of faith, and as a global citizen.”
Dear Alumnae and Friends,
We believe deeply that the ability to find your voice and your confidence begins in the environment that an all-girl’s education provides. Beaumont School creates space where young women can breathe and lean into learning and what it means to lead as a woman of purpose, of faith, and as a global citizen.
This issue of Beaumont News is filled with the stories of women who found their voice for advocacy and confidence as leaders at Beaumont, whether it’s the experiences of our current students who are leading efforts around peace and justice, civic leadership, and robotics, or the stories of alumnae who are doing so in their professional worlds.
We’re excited to share the journey of Dorothy Russo Moulthrop, PhD ’91, who is a tireless advocate for children. Her commitment to service and advocating for women “were formed in the halls of Beaumont School.” Her story begins on page 8. Tenille Jones Kaus, Esq. ’98 also says the seeds of advocacy were planted for her at Beaumont School. “I will never forget the power of Beaumont believing in me, even when I did not believe in myself.” Her story begins on page 10. Andi Wasdovich-Duffner ’68 has long said that Beaumont was a critical foundation to her success as a nurse executive. Find her story about the importance of supporting Beaumont philanthropically on page 16.
Speaking of philanthropy, THANK YOU to all who participated in the first Cleveland Rivals Unite Challenge. While Magnificat won this year’s bragging rights with the highest percentage of alumnae participating over the three-day period, we were so proud of the great energy and participation of our beloved Beaumont alums. We’ll get them next year!
We welcome our newest alumnae, the Class of 2024, as we celebrate their accomplishments beginning on page 17. We’ve got some new, but familiar, faces working at Beaumont, including Alumnae Relations Manager Kathleen Egan ’17 and Accountant Staci Smith Jones ’00 Welcome back, ladies!
Did you know that on September 9, 2025, Beaumont will be 175 years old? We’re planning a yearlong celebration of all things Beaumont and Ursuline and can’t wait to share more of the details with you in the coming months. Until then, help us serve you better by using the QR Code on page 21 to complete our reader survey.
As always, please reach out to let me know how we’re doing or how you’d like to help. You can email me at whoke@beaumontschool.org or call 216.325.7324.
Yours in St. Angela,
Wendy A. Hoke President
NEWS AND NOTES FROM NORTH PARK
▲ ROBOBOTS IS BACK!
The Beaumont Robotics Team was awarded first place in documentation at this year’s AWT RoboBots competition. Congratulations to Lee Brightman ’24, Clare Salem ’25, Sara Brightman ’26, Averee Thomas ’26, and Kynnedy Shumate ’26 and their bot, The Blue Streak of Death.
▲ LITTLE WOMEN
The Beaumont Drama Club presented the spring performance of Little Women.
▲ CATHOLIC SCHOOLS FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE (CSPJ) EVENT
Members of Beaumont’s Catholic Schools for Peace and Justice (CSPJ) Club spent the day at John Carroll University learning about the concept of social exclusion in Northeast Ohio and advocating for the dignity of all people in our community with Christ-like love.
▲ FRENCH EXCHANGE STUDENTS
Beaumont welcomed exchange students from Avignon, France this April. The students toured the Cleveland area and spent time on campus.
▲ INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE CELEBRATION
Our 12 IB Diploma candidates presented their year-long independent research projects which ultimately result in a 4,000-word college-level essay, as well as their personal Creativity, Activity, Service projects, a month-long deep dive into a service initiative of their design. Their cross-disciplinary Group 4 Projects, which aim to solve real world problems foster a deeper appreciation for the complexities of knowledge acquisition and its impact on society.
▲ OLDIES DANCE
The annual oldies dance always brings out the creativity in our Beaumont students!
LOOK UP TO CLEVELAND
Elisa Moulthrop ’25 and Kylie Gibbs ’25 recently graduated from the 9-month Look Up to Cleveland Leadership Program. This selective program is aimed towards students who exhibit initiative, strong academic performance, and natural leadership skills.
SCHOLASTIC ART AWARDS
Congratulations to our Studio Artists who received 23 awards at the 2024 Scholastic Art Competition.
GOLD KEY
Sara Brightman ’26
Fooled;
▲ FINE ARTS REVIEW
Parents, alumnae and students joined us for this annual tradition showcasing senior portfolios, ceramics, drawing & painting, photography and fashion.
SILVER KEY
Nina Bramhall ’26
Phantasmorphic
Sara Brightman ’26
Solfeggietto in C minor
Sara Brightman ’26
Under My Bathroom Lights
Emily Coviello ’24
Water Snakes Scare Me But I Draw Them Anyways
Keyshonna Haywood ’25
Comfy with Coffee
HONORABLE MENTION
Sara Brightman ’26
The Birdroom
Emily Coviello ’24
Scattered Brain
Julia Peck ’24
Lesley
Keyshonna Haywood ’25
Despair
Montana Meadows ’26
Mon pere
Maddie Ondrejka ’27
Bubblegum Sidelit
Lucy Panichi ’24
Sophia
Jane Peck ’27
Tiger Vase
Majdi Rudmann ’24
Hold on Tight
Sophia Pesta ’24
Colorful Still Life
Olivia Semerano ’24
Coral Reef , Lillia,
The Welcome Bear
Alena Vargas ’26
Dramatic Value
Don't Be
These Hands are Mine
Olivia Semerano ’24 Trees Along the Wall
Frances Weinberg ’26 Luxury of Time
Avalon Woconish ’25 Class of 1981
#GOBLUESTREAKS
#GOBLUESTREAKS Highlights from some of our Beaumont Blue Streaks. Follow our sports teams on social media on X @BlueStreaksAD, Facebook and Instagram @beaumontbluestreaks, and online at beaumontathletics.org
The Blue Streaks basketball team had a strong season finishing 17-7 under new Varsity Head Coach, Steve Klug , and Assistant Coaches Anna Alkire and Caitlin Tytler . Senior standout Mackenzie Callender ’24 was named Special Mention All-Ohio, second team All-district, and first team All-Crown Conference.
Nora Carlton ’24 , Shannon Shea ’24 , and Maria Goske ’26 were named All-District honorable mention. The Blue Streaks finished second in the Crown Conference and defeated Walsh Jesuit by 20 on Jan. 6, ending Walsh’s 19-game conference winning streak and handing the Warriors their lone loss in three years as a Crown Conference member.
Riley Becker ’24 (diving), Cilka Rowane ’24 (500 free) and the 200 free relay team represented Beaumont at the Division II State Championships. Riley placed 12th at the Division II State Diving Competition and completed her Blue Streaks career holding both diving records, 435.60 in the 11-dive format and 242.35 in the six-dive format. Cilka finished 21st in the state for the 500 free. Beaumont’s 200 free relay team which consisted of Cecilija Dautovic ’25 , Maddie Ondrejka ’27 , Cilka Rowane ’24 and Majdi Rudmann ’24 ended the year 18th in the state.
BLUE STREAKS SIGNINGS
Riley Becker ’24
John Carroll University, Diving
JaMia Cobb ’24
University of Findlay, Lacrosse
Ava Hartman ’24
University of Mount Union, Cross Country & Track
The Blue Streaks softball team finished the season 8-10, with two of the wins coming over Crown Conference foe Lake Catholic. Lilly Jarc ’24, was named Crown Conference Player of the Month for April and named First Team All-Crown Conference. Senior night photo with Lilly and her uncle Coach Mark Pophal. Additional recipients of First Team: Penelope Zoldak ’25, Second Team: Amelia Clary ’27 and Kara Thomas ’26, Honorable Mention: Kayla McDade ’25
Kayla Harris ’26, Imyla Holmes ’25, and Ava Hartman ’24 represented Beaumont School in individual races at the Division II Regional Meet.
Akyla Courtney ’25 , Kayla Harris ’26 , Imani Carruthers ’25 , and Imyla Holmes ’25 represented the 4x100 relay team. Kayla Harris ’26 , Cate Rochester ’24 , Imani Carruthers ’25 and Imyla Holmes ’25 represented the 4x200 relay team and advanced to compete in the Ohio High School State Meet in Dayton.
The Beaumont lacrosse team ended the year as Regional Champions with strong leadership from our seniors. Elizabeth Passow ’24 and Julia Peck ’24 were named First Team All-Crown Conference. Second Team honors went to Ja’Mia Cobb ’24 and Claire Reavis ’26 and honorable mention was awarded to Maggie Brady ’24
Dorothy Russo Moulthrop, PhD ’91: OPENING DOORS TO ADVOCACY LEADERSHIP
When Dorothy Russo Moulthrop graduated from Beaumont School in 1991, she didn’t fully understand the depth of the education she had received, nor did she fully appreciate the feminist streak that runs deep in the Ursuline tradition. She also took for granted the racial diversity of the student body and did not realize that most schools are more racially segregated than Beaumont School. Reflecting on her time at Beaumont, she says, “Feminism and Catholicism aren’t words often associated with each other, but at Beaumont School, I learned women should, and could be, just as influential and powerful as men.”
Beaumont was where she first learned about influential figures such as Oscar Romero and Sr. Dorothy Kazel, as well as the concepts of liberation theology and servant leadership. These lessons became the bedrock of her
commitment to serving the underserved and advocating for women in leadership. Dorothy adds, “My commitment to serving the underserved, to leading by example, to actuating the power of diversity, and to advocating for women in leadership were formed in the halls of Beaumont School.”
Today, Dorothy leads Open Doors Academy (ODA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing afterschool, summer, travel, and family programs to thousands of scholars in Northeast and Northwest Ohio. Many of these scholars come from impoverished backgrounds, and ODA fills critical gaps in their education by offering tutoring, mentorship, and opportunities they might not otherwise have. “I believe that everyone deserves access to a high-quality education like the one I received at Beaumont,” Dorothy explains. “Educational attainment remains one of the most reliable paths to financial stability for families and communities.”
INSPIRATION AND ADVOCACY
Dorothy’s inspiration to pursue advocacy work stems from a desire to make the world a better place. One of her earliest memories of feeling this calling was reading about St. Francis of Assisi in the Lives of the Saints book given to her by her aunt, Dorothy Ferrara ’60 (deceased). “I was fascinated by Giotto’s frescoes depicting St. Francis shedding his
worldly goods to do good in the world. I wanted to be like St. Francis,” she recalls. This calling is echoed in the lives of many people who inspire her, including her mom, her husband, St. Angela Merici, and poet laureate Amanda Gorman. “I find inspiration in Gorman’s poem, ‘The Hill We Climb,’ especially the lines, ‘Because being American is more than a pride we inherit – it’s the past we step into and how we repair it.’ These feelings can and do coexist, and together we can repair it for a brighter future for all.”
TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT
For Dorothy, the most rewarding aspect of her work is witnessing the positive impact Open Doors Academy has on its scholars. She recalls a visit to the afterschool program at Firelands Middle School, where a legislator, who had helped secure state funds for the program, was evaluating its success. After the visit, he asked the scholars what they liked about ODA. One boy pointed to a car outside and shared, “Before ODA, I was sitting in that car for a couple of hours waiting for my aunt to get off work to take me home.” Dorothy reflects, “No child should have to sit in a cold car alone from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. while their aunt finishes work. Because of ODA, he no longer does.”
The biggest challenge Dorothy faces is dismantling the systemic barriers designed to hold certain populations back. She emphasizes the need for education about the country’s history, including the practice of redlining and its lasting effects on communities. “We cannot shy away from our past. Understanding it and repairing the damage, ‘turning the light of truth upon it’ as Ida B. Wells says, is the way forward,” she asserts. By addressing these issues, she believes we can foster a community where all families have access to basic needs and opportunities.
“I have a group chat called ‘Beaumont Besties.’ When my kids hear my phone blowing up, they say, ‘Oh, here we go again, mom’s Beaumont friends!’ The friends I made at Beaumont, this sisterhood, means more to me than I can express here.”
—Dorothy Russo Moulthrop,
PhD ’91
BEAUMONT LEGACY AND SISTERHOOD
Dorothy’s connection to Beaumont extends through her family. Her aunts: Noreen Mary Malloy McGhee ’59, Dorothy Ferrara ’60 (deceased), Mea Ferrara Pierman ’72 (deceased), Mary Ferrara Supler ’64, Joanne Russo LaPlaca ’77, Deb Russo Venzor ’79; her sister: Sara Russo Crate ’89; her cousins: Pasqualeen Supler Kessinger ’88, Melissa Supler ’91; her nieces: Marykate Kessinger ’24, Meghan Kessinger ’19; and her daughter: Elisa Moulthrop ’25, who will be starting her senior year at Beaumont in the fall. The Beaumont sisterhood continues to be a significant part of her life. “I have a group chat called ‘Beaumont Besties.’ When my kids hear my phone blowing up, they say, ‘Oh, here we go again, mom’s Beaumont friends!’ The friends I made at Beaumont, this sisterhood, means more to me than I can express here.”
IMPACT OF BEAUMONT EXPERIENCE
Beaumont’s racially diverse student body taught Dorothy the importance of understanding differences, withholding judgment, and being open to new experiences. This adaptability has been crucial in her life and career. “Beaumont taught me to seek to understand difference, to withhold judgment, and to be open to new experiences,” she says. She strives to lead Open Doors Academy with inclusivity and acceptance, values she also instills in her three children.
Several people from Beaumont have had a lasting impact on Dorothy. Sister Cheryl Mentkowski taught her that it’s okay to question faith and that doubt can coexist with belief. Maura Reali Armsworthy ’91,
a lifelong friend, continues to inspire Dorothy with her compassion, intellect, and grace. “Sr. Cheryl taught me that women can do anything men can do. She taught me to set my sights high, to be ambitious, confident, and humble,” Dorothy explains. “Maura helps me understand life, the human condition, and our place in the world. She makes me a better person.”
ADVICE FOR STUDENTS
Dorothy’s advice to current Beaumont students and soon-to-be graduates is
LIVING THE MISSION: Life, Leadership, and Service
heartfelt: “You are strong, you are loved, you are enough, and you have sisters for life. Believe in yourself. Lean on your friends. Go get ‘em!”
Dorothy’s journey from Beaumont to her impactful career in advocacy is a testament to the enduring values and education she received at Beaumont School. Her work continues to reflect the principles of service, leadership, and social justice that Beaumont instilled in her. Dorothy is the Board Vice Chair for Beaumont School.
1990 Blue Streaks soccer team members
2022 Beaumont Reunion
Tenille Jones Kaus, Esq. ’98:
CREATING POSITIVE CHANGE THROUGH ADVOCACY
Passionate about social justice issues from a young age, Tenille Jones Kaus ’98 had her life-long commitment to issues important to her ignited during her time at Beaumont where she served as Vice President of STOP (Students Together Opposing Prejudice). These early experiences enabled her to delve into diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, setting the stage for her future.
After graduating from Beaumont, Tenille pursued an undergraduate degree in social work at The University of Pittsburgh and went on to earn her law degree from The University of Akron. Throughout her academic journey, Tenille sought out organizations and opportunities that aligned with her values, combining her legal skills with
her dedication to social justice.
Tenille’s career has been marked by a wide range of positions in the public sector, all of which have allowed her to advocate for equal opportunities. She has always believed that those who are given opportunities to succeed must, in turn, provide opportunities for others. “Beaumont played an instrumental role in my success and helped shape my values,” she reflects. “Being of service to others is one of my personal core values.” Tenille recently concluded her tenure at The Legal Aid Society and accepted a position on the Shaker Heights City Council.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Tenille’s career is helping people every day in ways that align with what she values. A recent example of this comes from her service on The Board of Trustees for the Shaker Heights Public Library. With the support of her fellow board members and staff, the library passed a Safe Leave Policy, providing paid time off for employees experiencing violence, such as domestic violence. This initiative holds personal significance for Tenille, as she lost her mother at a young age due to domestic violence.
Tenille’s journey at Beaumont began in the tenth grade, where she was initially placed in Honors Biology with Ms. Gretchen Santos . Doubting her abilities, Tenille approached Ms. Santos to explain that she was in the wrong class. Ms. Santos reassured her that she would do fine, and Tenille did more than fine; she thrived, continuing with honors, AP, and college-level classes throughout her time at Beaumont. “I will never forget the power of Beaumont believing in me, even when I did not believe in myself,” she recalls.
Reflecting on her time at Beaumont, Tenille credits the school with shaping her into the woman she is today. “Beaumont not only academically prepared me for college and law school, but it also prepared me for life,” she says. She specifically recalls Sister Cheryl Mentkowski , who pushed and encouraged her in equal measure. “It was in Sister Cheryl’s class that I learned I am smart enough and capable enough to do anything I want in life.”
Tenille was a speaker at this year’s Career Day at Beaumont and has this advice for current students and soon-to-be graduates: “Always remember where you came from and give back. None of us get to where we are without help. When you can help, do so. It will enhance your life more than you know!”
“Always remember where you came from and give back. None of us get to where we are without help. When you can help, do so. It will enhance your life more than you know!”
—Tenille Jones Kaus, Esq. ’98
LIVING THE MISSION: Life, Leadership, and Service
The sisterhood Tenille formed at Beaumont continues to be a source of inspiration and support. Thanks to social media, she keeps up with many of her Beaumont sisters, drawing inspiration from their careers and personal achievements. Her closest
friend from Beaumont, Sommer Edwards-Fountain ’98 , is a constant presence in her life. They travel together and spend summer days by the pool, with Sommer also serving as the godmother to Tenille's daughter, Eleanor. “I am blessed by the lifelong friendships and connections
I made at Beaumont,” Tenille shares.
Tenille embodies the values of service and advocacy that Beaumont instills in its students, demonstrating through her career and personal life the profound impact of a Beaumont education.
Career Day Panel
Rana Jenkins Brown ’89, Tenille Jones Kaus ’98, Kelly Gehrs Engstrom ’98, Mary Martin Pfeiff ’16, Emma Kozan Hudepohl ’05, Katie Coyne ’06 and President Wendy Hoke
CAREER DAY
List of Alumnae and Field of Work
If you are interested in participating in Career Day, email Kathleen Egan at kegan@beaumontschool.org
Annie Bacevice ’89
Employer: Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital
Position: Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Physician/ Co-Director of the Pediatric Trauma Center
Rana Jenkins Brown ’89
Employer: Beaumont School
Position: Director of Finance
Sydney Cira ’14
Employer: Cleveland Clinic
Position: Endocrinology Nurse Practitioner
Evette Jackson Clark, MD ’83
Employer: Cleveland Clinic
Position: Career Support Specialist-Lead
Kayla Cousineau ’01
Employer: OpinionRoute Position: COO
Katie Coyne ’06
Employer: University Hospitals
Position: Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility
Kelly Gehrs Engstrom ’98
Employer: Nate Berkus Associates & Entertainment
Position: Director of Operations
Emma Knoth Farrell ’05
Employer: U.S. Center for SafeSport
Veronica Garofoli ’06
Employer: Schneider Smeltz Spieth Bell LLP Position: Attorney
Emma Kozan Hudepohl ’05
Employer: Owner of Hudepohl Kozan Dentistry Position: Owner/ Dentist
Tenille Jones Kaus ’98
Employer: The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland Position: Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advancement
Mel Lauer ’06
Employer: Google Position: DEI Insights Specialist
Lauren Hozian Liberatore ’17
Employer: Keller Williams Realty Position: Realtor
Capricia Penavic Marshall ’82
Employer: FGS Global, CPM Global Engagement Strategies Position: Partner, President/CEO, Former Chief of Protocol of the United States
Caroline Bacevice Molnar LPCC, PMH-C ’13
Employer: The Cole Center Position: Mental Health Therapist
Carolyn Monastra ’84
Employer: Nassau Community College Position: Photography Teacher/ Freelance Photographer
Alyssa Muttillo ’15
Employer: Nestle Prepared Foods Position: Supervisor/Project Engineer for Ammonia Refrigeration Systems
Lauren King Nadaud ’05
Employer: Cleveland Clinic, Corporate Financial Planning Position: Finance Director
Nicolette Noce ‘17
Employer: Elle International Position: Syndication Coordinator for Paris Magazine
Monique Ozanne ’05
Employer: Beam Suntory Position: Director, North America, DEI
Employer: St. Dominic School Position: 5th Grade Social Studies & Religion Teacher/ Assistant Principal
Sr. Erin Zubal, OSU Beaumont Former Staff
Employer: NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice Position: Chief of Staff
Celebrating Beaumont’s Participation in the Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Giving Challenge
We are thrilled to share the highlights of our recent participation in the inaugural Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Giving Challenge. For three days, April 30-May 2, three all-girls, Catholic high schools - Beaumont School, Magnificat High School, and Saint Joseph Academy – engaged in a friendly competition to support all-girls Catholic education and our respective schools.
Our Beaumont alumnae community showed tremendous support throughout the challenge. Through outreach via social media, emails, and phone calls, we connected with both long-time donors and those contributing for the first time including alumnae from the Class of 1950.
During the challenge, Beaumont buzzed with energy during our spirited phone-a-thon, where students and alumnae came together to make connections and inspire participation. We kept the momentum alive by staying connected with our alumnae through various social media platforms. Together, we encouraged contributions in honor of the impactful faculty members, cherished school spirit, and the enduring bonds formed with fellow classmates.
While Magnificat claimed victory this year, Beaumont secured a commendable 4.48% (325 individual donors) of alumnae participation totaling donations of nearly $28,000. The winning school was based on the percentage of alumnae participation versus the amount of dollars raised. Collectively over three days, Beaumont, Magnificat, and Saint Joseph Academy received gifts from over 1,600 alumnae, raised a total of $132,000, and leveraged broad support for all-girls, Catholic education in Cleveland.
We extend congratulations to our top five participating classes:
1. 1989 – 17.92% participation
2. 1993 – 14.44% participation
3. 1990 – 13.48% participation
4. 2007 – 11.11% participation
5. 1965 – 9.38% participation
We eagerly anticipate next year's challenge and encourage everyone to look for details about the event.
We express our sincere gratitude to our alumnae community for their generous donations and participation. We couldn’t do it without you! Thank you for your continued support of Beaumont and our mission of empowering young women.
REVITALIZING BEAUMONT’S TRADITION OF SERVICE WITH 5TH COUNSEL TRIPS
By Brianna Mejak, Director of Campus Ministry
Our newly introduced 5th Counsel Trips program is new in name but rich in Beaumont history. Mission and service-related trips have long been part of Beaumont’s Campus Ministry offerings, particularly in El Salvador where Sr. Dorothy Kazel, OSU served. While these trips have not taken place in recent years for a variety of reasons, 2024 marked a significant return with renewed energy and purpose.
When I was hired, it was clear that our administrative team was eager to revitalize Campus Ministry and to reintroduce more outreach opportunities for our students. This enthusiasm was contagious and deeply encouraging to me. Participating in trips like these during my high school and college years was foundational. These experiences fostered friendships with classmates I might not have otherwise gotten to know—friendships I still cherish today. They also exposed me to diverse cultures and people with unique stories to share, significantly shaping my faith. Often, it was the faith of those we visited that served as the greatest testament to trusting in God. Reflecting on my own experiences, I am excited to facilitate similar opportunities for our Beaumont students.
In April 2024, Beaumont traveled with seven seniors and two chaperones to Philadelphia, PA. Ms. Kristin Osborne, Social Studies teacher and co-chaperone, facilitated historical sight-seeing and cultural immersion while I coordinated the faith and service components. We volunteered at St. Francis Inn, a soup kitchen that has been serving the Kensington neighborhood every day since 1979, echoing St. Angela’s legacy as a Third Order Franciscan. Each day began with Mass, where “the friars’ homilies struck a heart chord,” according to A’Kayla Ivory ’24. This sentiment was shared by many. “Fr. Mike and Fr. Pat used their wisdom and experience to deliver some of the most meaningful homilies I have ever heard, in just 5-10 minutes,” said Lilly Jarc ’24. Each Mass set a reflective and purposeful tone for the rest of our day.
Our students helped package fruits, vegetables, and desserts for pick-up and worked alongside staff to prepare meals. From 11:30am-1:00pm, they greeted the guests of St. Francis Inn, serving meals, bussing tables, and cleaning up afterward.
Beyond their physical labor, they were profoundly affected by getting to know the people they served. “The people on both sides of the operation have so much to give to one another, and to be a part of it even for a few days is a life-changing experience,” expressed Lucy Salata ’24. They witnessed the deep care the staff had for their guests and quickly developed their own connections. “The one recommendation that I have for the trip is to make it longer. If, in 3 days, I already knew the names and stories of so many, a week would allow for deeper and more meaningful interactions,” said Lilly.
Evenings were filled with Philly Cheesesteaks and visits to the African American Museum of Philadelphia, The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Betsy Ross’ House, and more. Each corner of Philadelphia overflowed with history that Ms. Osborne brought to life during our visit. Each day and night offered our IB learners opportunities to grow more caring, reflective, and knowledgeable.
Next school year, we will return to Philadelphia. We will embark on our next 5th Counsel Trip to Western New York, where students will learn to build ramps for homes needing wheelchair accessibility, tend a community garden, meet new people, hear their stories,
CAMPUS MINISTRY
Angela Merici advises us in the 5th Counsel to, “Build community wherever you go.” Beaumont’s 5th Counsel Trips provide students with opportunities to build community as they immerse themselves in different cultures and connect with individuals from various backgrounds. Through these trips, students' lives are enriched and transformed, forging strong bonds with their Beaumont sisters and those they meet along their journey.
and experience a more rural lifestyle. As this program grows, we plan to offer local, national, and international trips, with El Salvador on the horizon.
“I can’t express how grateful I am to have been able to come on this trip, and I can only hope that more Beaumont students take this opportunity to be changed and make a change,” said Lucy.
More information about 5th Counsel Trips can be found at beaumontschool.org/faith
Brianna Mejak, Director of Campus Ministry, has been in ministry in the Diocese of Cleveland since 2016. She attended an all-girls, college-preparatory school in Connecticut, similar to Beaumont, where Campus Ministry profoundly shaped her. Brianna holds a B.S. in Education with minors in Theology and English from St. Bonaventure University (2016) and an M.S. in Education from the University of Dayton (2018). She is currently pursuing Lay Ecclesial Ministry Certification through the Diocese of Cleveland. Brianna hopes Beaumont students will fondly remember their Campus Ministry experiences, just as she does.
For Andrea “Andi” Wasdovich-Duffner ’68, the groundwork for her academic and personal success was laid at Beaumont. “As a nurse, both at the bedside and as a Nurse Executive, I was able to credit Beaumont for my foundation and ability to interact in any situation with my colleagues and partners in healthcare,” she states. The strength that guided her through her life is still present in the current Beaumont students.
As a freshman, Andi was captivated not only by the physical beauty of Beaumont but also by its curriculum and, most importantly, its community. “The campus is just as beautiful; however, the improvements and additions are spectacular,” she said. With the addition of the STEM wing in 2015 and the new St. Angela Merici Field and Sister Margaret Ann Kelley Dining Hall, the campus may look a little different, but it is still stunning.
Impact for the Future
“As alumnae, we still have the opportunity to impact the future by supporting the Annual Fund. The future is strong for Beaumont for the generations ahead, so I invite everyone to be a part of the success by donating.”
—Andrea Wasdovich-Duffner ’68
As a board member for the past six years and the chair of the Advancement Committee for the past four years, Andi has had a front-row seat to all things Beaumont. “I was privileged to learn about the current curriculum, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB), Studio Art, and Sciences, as well as how the school has grown to embrace new theories, concepts, and technologies,” Andi said. “If I were a student now, WOW! I am amazed at the commitment to developing each young woman to her full potential, no matter which direction she takes.”
Since 2001, long before her service on the Board began, Andi has been making an impact at Beaumont by investing in its future through gifts to the Annual Fund. Unlike scholarships and SGO, gifts to the Annual Fund go to work immediately to enhance the experience of every Beaumont student.
These gifts also benefit the faculty and staff who help students reach their full potential. Beaumont’s Annual Fund makes it possible to hire and retain the best faculty, enhance technology, beautify and maintain the 21-acre campus, support athletics, provide meaningful educational experiences outside the classroom, and support visual and performing arts, along with dynamic faith-based opportunities.
“As alumnae, we still have the opportunity to impact the future by supporting the Annual Fund. The future is strong for Beaumont for the generations ahead, so I invite everyone to be a part of the success by donating.”
Join Andi in supporting your fellow Beaumont sisters. Then come visit the campus to see your investment at work in this beautiful place we call Beaumont.
Celebrating our CLASS OF 2024
Class Day is Beaumont's traditional "moving up" for underclassmen and a time to say goodbye to our Seniors. The Class of 2024 walked Beaumont's halls as students for the last time and sang the alma mater in our gym for the last time, arms linked with classmates who have become their sisters.
The Senior Prom and After Prom was held at Stillwater Place at The Cleveland Metroparks
Zoo. After dinner and dancing, students enjoyed playing games, riding the zipline and eating carnival themed treats!
The Mother-Daughter Farewell Prayer Service and Dinner is a beloved Beaumont tradition. From heartfelt reflections, advice given to daughters and gratitude given to mothers, delicious food and a touching slideshow, it was a wonderful tribute.
Baccalaureate Mass was celebrated at St. Dominic Church and Commencement was held at Church of the Gesu. Class Valedictorian Quinnie Van de Walle and Salutatorian Jessica Toohig shared inspirational speeches reflecting on their time at Beaumont, and Jess said it best, “Beaumont is home”. President Wendy Hoke expressed how proud she was of all the accomplishments of the Class of 2024 and looked forward to their bright future.
Ready to Change the World
2024 IB Diploma Programme Graduates
Front Row L-R: Maggie Brady, The Ohio State University, JaMia Cobb, The University of Findlay, Lucy Salata, University of Notre Dame, Sonia Arndt, The Ohio State University. Middle Row L-R: Beth Manning, University of Washington, Jessica Toohig, University of Notre Dame, Lee Brightman, The College of Wooster, Kate Condon, University of Florida. Back Row L-R: Ellie Thomas, Villanova University, Shannon Shea, Ohio University, Quinnie Van De Walle, Villanova University, Claire Brazalovics, Miami University
GRADUATES BY THE NUMBERS
100%
Graduation Rate and College Acceptance
$11.5 million Merit-Based Scholarships Received
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2024!
Students have chosen to enroll in 35 different institutions in 12 states and the District of Columbia. Here is where a few of our students are headed in the fall.
NORA CARLTON THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
Ohio State University
Provost Scholarship Plans to Study: Business
LILLY JARC XAVIER UNIVERSITY
Xavier University Presidential Scholarship Plans to Study: Philosophy, Politics & the Public
MARLEY MCNEILL UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY
Bluegrass Spirit Award Plans to Study: Pre-Dental
DESAMITO THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
Ohio State University
Provost Scholarship Plans to Study: Pharmacy
University of Dayton Dean’s Scholarship Plans to Study: Marketing
CATE ROCHESTER SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
Saint Louis University
Vice President’s Scholarship; Catholic High School Award Plans to Study: Physical Therapy
EVANS OHIO UNIVERSITY
Ohio University OHIO Excellence Scholarship; Governor’s Merit Scholarship Plans to Study: Environmental Studies
Loyola University Chicago Regents Scholarship Plans to Study: Sports Management
Howard University Founders Scholarship Plans to Study: Biology
SOPHIA
MEGAN MENNEL UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON
MAEVE
NIKKI RAND LOYOLA UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
MADISON WILLOUGHBY HOWARD UNIVERSITY
NEWS AND NOTES ALUMNAE
Alumnae Happy Hour
In April, Beaumont alumnae packed The Fairmount to catch up and enjoy a night out together!
Reilly Girardot ’16 Scholarship Award
Cecilija Dautovic ’25 was this year’s recipient of The Reilly Girardot ’16 Scholarship Award. The award is given to a Beaumont junior who has demonstrated great service for others, faith in humanity, friendship to all, unwavering confidence in self, and dedication to achieving personal goals, while striving to better Beaumont and the world.
Judge Jessica E. Price Smith ’90
Congratulations to Judge Price Smith ’90 as the first Black woman to hold her title in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Ohio. In 2011, she was also the first Black woman to be appointed to the bench for the same bankruptcy court.
Treva Offutt ’87
This summer Beaumont is excited to partner with Treva Offutt ’87, Director of Education at Playhouse Square, and Heights Youth Theater (HYT), as the host site for HYT’s FUNdamentals summer camp. This summer experience has traditionally been a wonderful first step for many to join HYT productions as performers and crew members. Join us this July when we will put the FUN in FUNdamentals!
Award recipient Cecilija Dautovic ’25 pictured in center with fellow award nominees Kayla McDade ’25 and Sophia Thomas ’25
Allie Primisch ’10 Flourish Art Show
Kudos to Allie Primisch ’10 who guest curated an exhibit this spring at e11even 2 Gallery at 78th Street Studios. “Flourish: A Celebration of Urban and Elegant Botanical Beauty” celebrated the diverse and awe-inspiring beauty of botanical life and featured a collection of art pieces, including 3D ceramics and 2D design works that captured both the timeless elegance of nature and the vibrancy and resilience of botanical life within the urban landscape.
Hannah Manocchio ’09 was a featured artist at the exhibit. Hannah is the sole owner and operator of Snakes + Acey’s, a small screen print shop in Cleveland’s historic Little Italy neighborhood. She specializes in hand printed artwork, apparel, and merchandise.
Kathleen Egan ’17
The Advancement Department welcomed Kathleen Egan ’17, as the Alumnae Relations Manager. Kathleen brings experience in coaching, education, and interpersonal skills to this essential role at Beaumont. She most recently served as the Graduate Assistant Volleyball Coach and as an Interim Head Volleyball Coach at Notre Dame College. Kathleen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Baldwin Wallace University and received her Master’s in Education from Notre Dame College in May.
Kathleen brings an enthusiasm to connect with the Beaumont community. She looks forward to meeting and finding ways to collaborate and engage with fellow alumnae. “Being back at Beaumont brings back so many great memories! I am so excited to connect with alumnae from different generations and share our Beaumont experiences with one another.” Beaumont alumnae are welcome to contact Kathleen at kegan@beaumontschool.org.
Staci Jones ’00
The Finance Department welcomed Staci Smith Jones ’00 to accounting. Staci earned a Master of Accountancy from Cleveland State and Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, specializing in Accounting, from Kentucky State University.
Staci is very active with the Nordonia Middle and High School PTAs as President and Treasurer, respectively, and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.
Staci shared that she truly enjoyed her high school experience at Beaumont, “It gave me the foundation I needed to excel in college and in life. The sense of community I felt as a student, I now experience as an employee. I am so happy to be back at Beaumont.”
Beginning September 2025, Beaumont will host a series of events to celebrate this important milestone. Stay tuned for more information!
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CLASS NOTES
Please find Class Notes online at beaumontschool.org/beaumontnews
IN MEMORIAM
As of 5/30/2024
Beaumont Alumnae:
Mary Ellen Kelley O’Dwyer ’50
Carol Lally Lloyd ’52
Jayne Callahan Brooks ’53
Doris Dawson Cirillo ’55
Joan Kormos Espenschied ’56
Ann Geoghegan Favorite ’58
Marilyn Neff Hammers ’58
Judith Hafele Urbanek ’58
Dr. Barb Moriarty Snowadzky ’59
Sue Kenney Keane ’64
Jane Sheahan McMahon ’67
Maria Saracusa Lucas ’71
Gwenn Pokorny Maguire ’75
Victoria Garcia Reiling ’77
Receive a Dollar-for-Dollar Ohio State Tax Credit by Donating to the Beaumont Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO)
Beaumont Scholarship Granting Organization
(SGO)
Convert your Ohio tax dollars into Beaumont scholarship dollars. Give $750, get $750 while supporting Beaumont School with a dollar-for-dollar Ohio tax credit.
The State of Ohio now allows taxpayers the opportunity to direct monetary donations to an eligible scholarship-granting organization (SGO). When you give to the Beaumont SGO, you will receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit of up to $750 annually per individual or up to $1,500 annually if you are married and filing jointly.
TO DONATE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO: Beaumontschool.org/sgo, or contact Patti Clair at 216.325.7374 or email pclair@beaumontschool.org
*This does not constitute income tax advice. Always consult with your tax professional for information on the impact of any charitable contribution.
1
Assign Your Ohio Tax Dollar to Support Beaumont School Students
Estimate Your Tax Liability
Review your tax liability from last year (Line 8c on your Ohio IT 1040) to estimate your current year Ohio tax liability.
Contribute to Beaumont SGO
2
3
Give securely on our website or by check to the “Beaumont Scholarship Granting Organization” to benefit our students in becoming young women who will change the world.
Claim Your Ohio Tax Credit
Claim your tax credit on your 2024 Ohio tax form with the tax credit receipt that we will mail to you.
3301 North Park Blvd. Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
216.325.7374
beaumontschool.org
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