2022 Winter Encore - Magazine and Annual Report

Enc re Encore Winter 2022 Volume II, Issue 10

Notre Dame School of Manhattan

s u o N z e h C

BONUS: Notre Dame School’s 20202021 ANNUAL REPORT enclosed starting on page 33

Encore

Chez Nous

Winter 2022

CONTENTS 1 2 3 7 8 19 20 24 28 32 33 49 50 54 56

A Message from the President A Message from the Principal News Around School Student Spotlights Alumnae Board: Looking Back and Paying it Forward Alumnae News 2021 Graduation Scholarship Stories Why I Give: Vivian Cardia ’70 College Matriculation 2020–21 Annual Report Ways to Give Class Notes In Memoriam Back Story: Jaclyn Brilliant

Notre Dame School of Manhattan Dr. Virginia O’Brien, SU President Karina Vargas Principal Elizabeth Bixenman Director of Development & Alumnae Relations Jacqueline Governale Director of Admissions Jaclyn Brilliant Communications and Outreach Coordinator

OUR MISSION Notre Dame School of Manhattan offers a Catholic education for young women in the tradition of Anne de Xainctonge. Inspired by this 17th century pioneer in women’s education, Notre Dame promotes academic excellence for girls, an awareness of God in their lives and engagement in the world around them.

At Notre Dame in the 21st Century, the school’s small, nurturing environment encourages each student to be open to personal and intellectual growth. The rich cultural, racial and ethnic mosaic of Notre Dame’s community and its urban location enhance global awareness. A challenging curriculum prepares talented young women for college and for lives of leadership and service.

Annual Fund Overview and Highlights September 1, 2020 through August 31, 2021 All gifts to the Annual Fund go directly toward the education of our promising Notre Dame students. The Annual Fund helps bridge the $5,000 gap that is created between the cost of educating each girl, and the tuition paid. The Annual Fund also gives each student access to scholarship and financial assistance packages and helps maintain our fine facilities. It allows us to enhance the curriculum, to provide the latest technology, and to offer professional development for our teachers.

Here are some highlights from the past year:

1.82 million

20

381

dollars contributed by you, our alumnae, parents, Trustees, grandparents, and friends

Board of Trustee members contributed over

alumnae, parents, grandparents, Trustees, and friends raised over

$387,000

$16,000

$474,000

Please send submissions for Encore Chez Nous to:

Photography David Chang Zoran Prodanovic Stomping Ground Photo Juliana Thomas Design The Blank Page New York, NY ON THE COVERS

FRONT: Arianna Smith, Emely Abreu, and Shaun Bates outside St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Graduation Day 2021.

BACK: Natalie O’Brien ’22, Gabbi White ’22, Kat Chang ’22, and Olivia Richards ’22

25 matching gifts totaling over

$63,000

Breakdown of Income & Expenses 2020–2021

Notre Dame School Attn: Jaclyn Brilliant 327 West 13th St. New York, NY 10014 brilliantj@cheznous.org 212-620-5575 ext. 313

at the 64th Annual Chez Nous Benefit, which was held virtually!

grandparents donated over

foundations contributed over

$192,000

$445,000

5

15

193 alumnae contributed over

Enrichment Programs

Mandated and Student Services

2.2%

5.0%

Development

9.8%

5.6% INCOME

15.7% Tuition and fees

53.7% Annual Fund

1.1%

4.5%

Special Events

Other Income

Special Events

Admissions

Depreciation

9.0% Operations and Maintenance

EXPENSES Faculty Salaries and Benefits

41.4%

12.9%

15.8% General Administration

23.3% We are grateful to you, our generous donors, who supported the mission of Notre Dame. Each one of you, regardless of the size of your gift, played a real and meaningful role in the education of our students.

A Message from the President

Anna Yaegashi ’24, Sr. Virginia O’Brien, S.U., and Maya Perez ’23

Winter 2022 Dear Notre Dame,

“We desire that all our students experience a sense of belonging Chez Nous, receive an exceptional college preparatory education, and become leaders that make the world more just and peaceful.”

Encore 2022 focuses on several of our alumnae who live Anne de Xainctonge’s mission and desire that it remains vibrant at Notre Dame School in the years ahead. I am delighted to introduce one of them as our new Principal, Karina Vargas. Karina began her time at Notre Dame when the school was in our modest home on St. Mark’s Place. As a senior, Karina and the entire student body of 208 packed their books and belongings on a Thursday in April 2002 and moved into our new home on West 13th Street the following week.

Our building was quite rustic in 2002. Twenty years later, thanks to our community of alumnae, parents, and benefactors, our 360 students enjoy what was only a dream for the Class of 2002: state of the art technology, a beautiful art room, the Dolan Arts and Athletics Center, the ND Commons, and, of course, our prayerful Alumnae Chapel.

No matter our location, Notre Dame School always remains focused on our mission: “academic excellence for girls, an awareness of God in their lives, and engagement with the world around them.” This year we are renewing our commitment to focus on three social justice initiatives: diversity, equity, inclusion, and the Gospel (DEIG); immigration; and climate change. We desire that all our students experience a sense of belonging Chez Nous, receive an exceptional college preparatory education, and become leaders that make the world more just and peaceful.

While we entrust Karina Vargas with the role of Principal in the tradition of Anne de Xainctonge, I ask each one in our entire Notre Dame community to renew your support of Notre Dame. Your generosity has brought us this far since our beginning, over 110 years ago. We trust in your continued support so that our students learn to live more deeply the Gospel message and celebrate 20 years on West 13th Street.

With gratitude,

Dr. Virginia O’Brien, SU President 1

A Message from the Principal

Annie Piscitelli ’23, Suzanna Malshyti ’23, Karina Vargas, Gabriella Janik ’23, and Sadie Transom ’23

Winter 2022 Dear Chez Nous Family, We are so happy to be back home and in person five days a week. I am overjoyed to hear the conversations and giggles of our students in the hallways, to see our classrooms full, and to see the love our Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, parents, and alumnae have for our students.

“I’ve walked through many paths at ND as a student, alumna, teacher, and leader, and it has always led me to the same destination: the success of our students.”

Our school’s location is a true gem. We are fortunate to have the High Line, the Whitney Museum, beautiful and historic parks and streets, and public transportation at our fingertips; the city is truly our campus. Just the other day, we walked our students to the latest addition to the neighborhood: Little Island. The students loved the mini-trip and can’t wait to go again. As I walked with the students, I saw the joy they felt to be with their friends underneath the clear blue sky on a beautiful island waiting for them after many months of enclosure. The students took the time to reflect and appreciate God’s gifts of friendship, knowledge, and life.

I reflect on this outing because we are grateful for God’s gifts, but we are also grateful for your gifts. Thanks to your generosity, we are able to provide our students a challenging curriculum while also giving them the opportunity to engage in the world around them.

I am truly blessed to be Principal at a place that is dear to my heart, my second home. I’ve walked through many paths at ND as a student, alumna, teacher, and leader, and it has always led me to the same destination: the success of our students. Anne de Xainctonge’s mission was to provide a rigorous education for young women in a nurturing environment, and prepare these talented young women intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally to live lives of leadership and service. We carry Anne’s little lamp with great pride, and we thank you for your time and support to keep Anne’s lamp ignited in our hearts and in our students.

Your contribution whether big or small matters, and we are forever grateful!

Sincerely,

Karina Vargas Principal

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In-Person Retreats Resume!

On Friday, September 21st, Notre Dame’s faculty and staff enjoyed a special retreat, hosted by Sr. Mary Dolan, SU, our Facilitator for Mission, and by Tara Crimmins from the theology department. After a hearty bagel breakfast, faculty and staff learned more about Ignatian Spirituality. Sr. Mary recounted the story of St. Ignatius, the pilgrim, visiting The Shrine of Our Lady of Arantzazu in Oñati, Spain.

Arantzazu means, “You, Here?” The beautiful statue of Arantzazu was found among the thorn bushes.

It was a surprise encounter for Ignatius, and after spending a night in prayer before this statue of Our Lady, he received a life changing grace for which he was grateful for his entire life.

Sr. Mary asked us to remember times in our own lives where we were surprised by the unexpected.

Often, surprises are not exactly what we may have chosen for ourselves, but we learn along our own human journeys that God is always with us, even in difficult moments, just like Ignatius found the statue hidden among thorn bushes. God’s unique, unconditional love for each one of us is always with us, no matter the circumstances of our lives. God is with us even as the global pandemic, and all the consequences of that, continue. Are we able to savor a sense of gratitude for God’s presence in our lives, even during these extraordinarily difficult times?

After time for personal reflection and group sharing, the faculty reconvened in the Dolan Center and Sr. Mary traced the personal history of our school’s founder, Anne de Xainctonge, and her close connection to the Jesuits of her time. Anne risked personal

comfort and even a break in familial relationships to follow her vocation to educate girls as the Jesuits were educating boys. Her humane and open-minded approach to education lives on at Notre Dame today.

With gratitude to Sr. Mary for leading our retreat, faculty and staff ended the afternoon in prayer and walked out to an exceptionally sunny early fall day in the West Village, ready for the busy weeks ahead of teaching and serving the school!

Led by Theology Teacher Kevin McDonald and senior leaders, in-person student retreats have also returned Chez Nous. Our ninth graders thoroughly enjoyed their first high school retreat on October 7th.

Mr. McDonald introduced our newest students to the concept of a retreat and the theme of Friendship— with one another, with oneself, and with God. The day opened with prayer and a blessing on the class.

Students gathered in small discussion groups throughout the day, participated in a Trust Walk, and wrote letters to themselves to be stored and then delivered to them at the end of senior year. The day ended with a closing prayer from Mr. McDonald: Lord, let this time of being with You, with ourselves, and with one another bring new life to our hearts and spirits.

Help us become more aware of what we need to let go of and what we need to embrace.

May we come to a deep appreciation of the work You created us to be.

We offer this prayer in Your name.

Amen 3

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DEIG Work at Notre Dame Christina Johnson ’24, and Sadie Transom ’23

Christina Johnson ’24, Nicole Wakabayashi, and Mahlah Abudu ’24

Notre Dame has long been proud of its diverse student population, a true “rich, cultural, racial, and ethnic mosaic,” as our mission statement celebrates. But we also, of course, recognize the need to do more than just attract, recruit, and retain a diverse mix of students. Our identity as a Catholic school, especially, requires us to do the work required to make sure every member of our school community feels a deep sense of belonging here. We are pleased to announce our newly coined emphasis on DEIG programming, planning, and education: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and the Gospel.

This work begins at the very top of our school, with our Board of Trustees, who have now engaged in over 10 hours of focused diversity training and strategic planning, under the guidance of Martha Haakmat, who specializes in leadership coaching and support for DEI strategic planning for schools and other organizations. In its fall meeting, our Trustees focused on Envisioning Strategic DEI and Anti-Racism and establishing the frameworks for action plans and goals for the year ahead. The Notre Dame Board has established a DEIG Task Force, consisting of members of each Board committee, to work 4

Karina Vargas, Dr. Sandra Chapman, Sr. Virginia O’Brien, S.U., and Dashea Hickson

in a sustained way on issues of race, diversity, and justice at our school.

DEIG training continues with our faculty, staff, students, and families, as well, with the help of consultant Dr. Sandra Chapman, who is working directly with our student peer leadership group, Anne’s Leaders, named, of course, after our iconic founder, Anne de Xainctonge. At our October faculty professional development session with “Dr. Chap,” we discussed the need to have Courageous Conversations; the

complexity of intersectionality; the damage caused by Stereotype Threat; and how to counter it with the four Anti-Bias Domains of identity, diversity, justice, and action.

All of our work, woven into all we do at the school, is rooted in our Gospel values and our commitment to provide a “nurturing environment that encourages each student to be open to personal and intellectual growth.” We will continue to keep our entire community updated on our efforts and progress.

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Fall Sports Round-Up Our senior players tell it best when it comes to the fall sports update, which they provided near the end of the season. We are happy that sports are fully back in session this year.

Cross Country Notre Dame’s Cross-Country team is only halfway through their season and already off to a great start. The freshman team placed 3rd overall against competitors from all across the east coast at the Manhattan invitational. The Varsity 7 have been working in pairs throughout the season to help push each other in races and in practices. All this work resulted in all 7 runners being able to place in the top quarter of the past few races as well as beating their personal records from last season.

Meanwhile, some other members of the team took the $365 collected during a Notre Dame tag day to the Terry Fox Run for Cancer Research! The girls had a great time running the 5k, knowing it was for a good cause. This bodes well for the reigning New York City Sectional champions as we will look to defend this title in just three weeks!

— Helena Stuhr ’22 and Annika Hegde ’22

Soccer Notre Dame Soccer is a community that looks different every year as ninth graders try out, sophomores become captains for JV, juniors move up to Varsity, and seniors leave. This year we are in Tier 2, but other years we have been in Tier 1, noting the impact of the team’s dynamic, coaching situation and skillset on a year-to-year basis. We currently hold second place in our division, under the coaching and mentorship of JP Roncoli.

Olivia Richards (’22) and I are co-captains of the Varsity team, and we’ve worked to build a team that is not only passionate about the sport, but willing to work hard to reach both shortterm and long-term goals. Our biggest competitors include St. John’s and Monsignor McClancy. The week of October 17th is our last week of regularly scheduled games, with our senior game taking place on Saturday, October 23rd at Randall’s and playoffs in the weeks to come. Wish us luck!

— Kat Chang ’22

Volleyball The Volleyball teams started on a high this year with both Varsity and JV winning their first games of the season. Since then, both teams have faced losses but haven’t accepted defeat.

Due to COVID, spectators have not been permitted at the games. We have kept our own positive energy and enthusiasm by cheering and encouraging one another on and off the court.

Both teams’ players are extremely committed and are working hard every week in practice to improve their skills. With their positive attitude and commitment, the teams hope to make it to the playoffs. Team spirit has made it a fun and enjoyable season for all the players.

— Addison Wittnebert ’22 5

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Mindfulness Wednesdays in the Chapel The first Wednesday of each month, Lauren Cimera, Notre Dame’s Director of Counseling, has been hosting in person 15-minute meditations in the chapel to start our day.

It’s been so helpful this year, in particular, to start with a brief check in to see how everyone is doing and feeling. Students and faculty are invited to participate.

Encore asked Lauren about how she got interested in mindfulness and why it has been so important to share with our school community.

“I learned about mindfulness in college, but never actually practiced it. It was only 5 or 6 years ago when I got my Apple watch, and one day it prompted me to “ breathe.” I remember it was a hectic day and then I got the alert and thought, I really do need to breathe! I began doing that every time my watch prompted me and felt like it was a reset. I began doing a one-minute breathing exercise in my classes at ND with the students and playing some relaxing sounds in the background so they could get a “mental” break. I used the same technique with some of the students who came into my office because they were upset.

(THEY LOVED IT!) Sometimes when I would forget to do it, they would ask me if we could pause to breathe.

When the pandemic hit, the counselors began to deal with so much more anxiety and stress among students and faculty; and for self-care purposes I began using the Calm app to do guided meditations. I realized how helpful this was for me and felt like our community could benefit.

The one thing I always say about mindfulness is it is research based and proven effective for reducing stress and anxiety, but it takes practice and doing it more than once!

I also felt that I needed some extra training in mindfulness and stress management to help my students through the pandemic. I enrolled in the American School Counselor Association, “Anxiety and Stress Management” course and became an Anxiety and Stress Management specialist.”

We are so grateful for Ms. Cimera’s initiative and the good care she takes of us Chez Nous.

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Club Fair Returns On September 23, 2021 ND students and club moderators went all out for our first in-person Club Fair since the pandemic.

Crowding was prevented by assigning club locations to various rooms throughout the building, rather than all in the Commons at the same time. Our new 9th and 10th graders, in particular, came out in full force to sign up for extracurricular activities that ran the gamut from Young Feminists to the Foodie Club, and much more. Last year’s Club Fair was held

by Zoom, with all club meetings also online. We are thrilled to offer in-person clubs for the 2021-22 school year!

LITTLE ISLAND COMMUNITY TIME

The neighborhood of Notre Dame is the gift that keeps on giving. With the opening of Little Island, an outdoor public park and event space in Hudson River Park, just steps from our school, we had the perfect spot for our students to decompress during the busy return to in-person classes. Each grade level took time during the last weeks of September and the first weeks of October to spend time in the park, enjoy a picnic lunch, and mingle with classmates and teachers. Park founder Barry Diller puts it this way, “What was in my mind was to build something for the people of New York and for anyone who visits—a space that on first sight was dazzling, and upon use made people happy.” Notre Dame students couldn’t agree more!

STUDENT S P O T L I G H T S

Addisyn Schmutter ’24 spent the month of July volunteering at the New Jersey Hillside Food Bank. She also spent time hiking in the Shenandoah Valley National Park in Virginia, where she wore her Notre Dame cap with pride!

Chaewon Vitale ’23 spent three weeks volunteering as a Counselor in Training at Girl Scout sleep-away camp, Camp Blue Bay. She is pictured on the left.

Alessia Mangano ’22 was the recipient of a Cornell University Dean’s Scholarship. She attended Pre-college summer 2021 program at Cornell University. Alessia was thrilled to learn from professors in a Pre-Vet Med course, giving her knowledge and firsthand exposure into the world of veterinary medicine. Although it was challenging to learn at a fast-paced college level, Alessia found it inspiring at the same time, as the professors shared their perspectives and candid experiences in the professional field.

Chloe Long ’24 spent the first half of her summer at a sleep away backpacking camp, where she went on a ten-day backpacking trip in the Adirondacks. She spent the second half of the summer working and studying coffee at a coffee shop in Long Beach Island, where she learned about the coffee bean crisis. Chloe also worked at a surf school teaching young kids to surf!

Lillian Ji ’23 created a website as part of a Cooper Union STEM summer program.

Keilani Collins ’22 participated in a 6-week internship with SYEP (Summer Youth Employment Program) . She was placed with LaGuardia Community College and worked in their admissions department.

While the entire internship was remote, she was able to work with a number of staff via Zoom to learn how to field requests, and troubleshoot the application process.

Keilani had to keep weekly logs of the students she spoke with and assisted on a daily basis. Each week interns had the opportunity to attend professional development workshops. She is pleased to report that the internship was paid and that she learned quite a bit about the application process.

Also, throughout the summer, Keilani continued to practice and train for Irish dance competitions. She competed in two National Championships. At the USA Irish Dance Alliance’s National Championships at the end of June, she placed 2nd for the Under 17 age group. At the end of August, she competed at the Rince Tuatha Nua’s Nationals and won for the 16+ age group.

Keilani headed to the World Championships in Ireland at the end of October!

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ALUMNAE BOARD MEMBERS

Looking Back, Paving the Way, and Paying It Forward

Notre Dame is honored to have six alumnae serving on its Board of Trustees. This diverse group of women represents graduates from the school’s 79th Street and St. Mark’s Place locations. In conversation with the school, they bring their individual perspectives on the Notre Dame they remember, their experiences as Trustees, their perceptions of challenges the school faces, their hopes for its future, and their advice for today’s students. Collectively, their wisdom and generosity are forces of strength and sources of inspiration for the entire Notre Dame community. We hope you enjoy hearing from them directly in this feature.

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What led you to your current career or your most recent position or interests? Do you feel your Notre Dame education played a part in your path?

How so?

Johanna: The lessons and development of values at Notre Dame, especially service to others, and the sense of community definitely led me to my work in the service of individuals with criminal backgrounds. At ND, your classmates were there to prop you up. The sky was the limit in terms of your goals and aspirations because you felt so safe. There was something particular about the diversity of the school. It led me to be curious about others, to ask questions. I commuted to school from Queens.

My classmates and I came from all different places in New York City, and being together at ND helped me conceptualize how big the city was, but also how small and intimate ND was able to make that feel.

The reliable nurturing environment and support of the school led me to my work at the Center for Employment Opportunities, and I have been with my organization for fifteen years. ND really established the value of how important it is to support one another and position others for success. A lot of society doesn’t reflect those values. In my work I play a part in improving peoples’ lives at their most vulnerable when they have been impacted by the criminal justice system.

Monique: I’m a member of the core faculty of Counseling, Psychology, and Therapy at Antioch University. In my role, I help prepare doctoral students to apply what they’ve learned to clinical work and also advise them on their dissertations.

I have a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, and I remember very clearly that Sr. Virginia O’Brien, ND’s president, was working toward her

PhD in Psychology at Fordham during my time at Notre Dame. In fact, so many ND faculty members at the time were pursuing advanced degrees, and it really sent the message to me and to other students that education is an ongoing journey. Learning doesn’t stop. At Notre Dame I consistently felt supported and challenged in my academic and career goals.

Patricia: I wanted a career in law from a very young age. I grew up watching a television show called The Young Lawyers, and I always admired the idealism of the characters who opened up a legal aid center right after graduating.

Ironically, I was never a “young lawyer” because I worked in the accounting field for thirteen years before going to law school. At Notre Dame I learned to be confident, which helped me to leave a career I was good at in order to pursue my dream.

ND was a safe and judgmentfree zone, where you could say what you thought and be who you were. You didn’t have to put on an act. It was always okay to speak your mind. I learned that it’s okay to have healthy competition with your classmates, but at the same time you can relate to them on a personal level and be friends who support each other. That lesson carried over into my career as a litigator. Lawyers are advocates for clients and might argue passionately over a case, but you can be respectful and even friendly with each other despite your respective clients’ differences.

I grew up in Queens, and my parents were very conservative.

It was a big deal for me to go to high school in Manhattan and later attend college at Fordham in the Bronx. My high school teachers had a lot of faith in me and my ability, and pushed me to do some unorthodox things that helped me advance. I took Math 11 and Math 12 during the same year, and

actually sat for two Regents exams on the same day. Then I took Calculus my Senior year, with a small group of others. My English teacher, Sr. Mary Gerald (Sr. Carol Perry), was an advocate for me,

social life of an all-girls school to a male-dominated career.

The NYPD has numerous divisions and units within its 40k member organization. My career path has led me through various

Johanna Vespe Aulisa ’01

“At ND, your classmates were there to prop you up.

The sky was the limit in terms of your goals and aspirations because you felt so safe.” especially when it came time to choose a college. I truly believe she deserves the credit for getting my parents to be more openminded on that topic.

Justine: In college, I knew I wanted to go into a field that helps people.

After graduating, my first job was working for Catholic Charities as a Case Worker in Foster Care. My supervisor at the time was a retired NYPD Sergeant. He convinced me to take the police test. He thought I could help more people in a citywide atmosphere and make a difference with the same communities I was already serving. I followed his advice and took the test in 1997. I’ve been with the NYPD for 23 years. I laugh when I think that I went from the

divisions, culminating in my work within the Cyber Crime Division. I have seen the good and the bad, along with people at their best and their worst. I saw a clear distinction between those who had opportunity and those who did not. My perspective has been constantly challenged by plenty of hands-on life experience.

Opportunities can steer your career path, and I know for sure that attending Notre Dame School was my opportunity. Opportunity, though, has a twofold meaning for me.

First, the ND school structure gave me a chance to challenge myself academically. The school gave me a leadership platform and improved my self-confidence

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ALUMNAE BOARD MEMBERS via the support of the strong faculty and staff. After striving and excelling at ND, I felt I could face any challenge in the future.

Second, I believe once afforded an opportunity, you are obligated to do something with this chance at advancement. Therefore, I always want to give back to ND for laying the groundwork for my future success and contributing to my inner sense of empowerment.

In the Police Academy, they hand you a packet of flashcards to use as a reference when you are on your first foot post by yourself.

We were told we might need to translate if encountered by someone on the street. It’s a bit intimidating; you’re nervous, trying to figure out if you remember all your training and wondering if you are fit for the job at hand.

After looking through my packet, I came across one entitled “Spanish Phrases.” The sentences on the cards gave me a flashback to freshman Spanish. One simple phrase was Preguntas? It was as if Senorita Harrington wrote them herself!

That is when I knew it; I got this.

Years later during a prisoner interview, my subject, arrested for embezzlement, was talking down to my partner. He was commenting on his education, how he had a Ph.D. and how we were wasting our time talking to him. We let him ramble on until he got tired of listening to himself. I don’t know why I said it, but I mumbled under my breath, “Tu est mendax.” (you’re fake/ a liar). Ms. Lumley-Clark took over my brain, and I floated back to Latin class and the adventures of Caecilius. I don’t remember how well I did in her class, but I remembered Ms. Lumley’s animated reading from the textbook and her lunging across the room shouting, “Tu est mendax.” My spontaneous utterance isn’t the funny part of the story. The prisoner heard what I said and understood me. He then

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Monique Sulle Bowen ’90

“ND changed me.

I was forced to grow up, to turn outward, to find and develop a public voice.”

stopped talking about his crime and asked what Ivy League school I went to, since I was clearly fluent in Latin. I never answered him but walked out of the room with a smile on my face.

I still get a sideways look when I tell people I attended an all-girls school. I’ve always been a bit outspoken, but I was a little intimated in the classroom. My time at ND shaped my self-confidence, and the faculty challenged me to speak publicly without hesitation.

ND planted the seed in me and promoted my self-worth, which stuck with me in my college years, social work career, and the police department.

Talya: I’ve always been interested in math, science and the desire to make things. From an early age I enjoyed creating things from basically nothing. During high school, it was actually Sr. Virginia, our school counselor at the time, who told me to look into engineering. As they say, the rest is history.

I attended Stevens Institute and

have been a practicing Mechanical Engineer for the past 22 years.

Carolyn: I credit Notre Dame with my lifelong love of languages; and during much of my career as an administrator in the ethnically diverse setting of Saint Francis Preparatory School in Queens, NY, I was able to put my multi-lingual skills to good use. Now that I am retired, I have had the opportunity to travel to 75 different countries.

During your high school years, what experiences were most formative for you? How would you describe the Notre Dame of your time?

Johanna: The academics at Notre Dame were very challenging for me. It was hard, and I sometimes had to take summer school classes.

At times I thought, I don’t think I can do this, but I always felt encouraged and supported. Everyone was patient, and I knew I could find my fit. The education that was offered was amazing. Everyone was

so smart. I think most memorable for me were a couple of the “immersive” experiences: the trips to the Pearl Theatre and when Ms. Crosson took her French classes to the local creperie. We were in the city for school, in a neighborhood that was “lively,” to say the least, and we weren’t allowed to leave for lunch, but outings like these provided just enough exposure. I even remember simply having conversations with Ms. Geer while we walked to the gym at the nearby Boys’ Club. The message at ND was, yes, you’re in class, but there is also a life outside. The school was special and offered a unique, added layer of experience.

Monique: My first three years at ND were at the 79th Street location. I was from the Bronx, and I remember leaving for school in the dark and taking three subway trains to get there. Bronx kids typically went to Bronx schools, so I felt a little like a trailblazer.

There was, perhaps, a small group of us from the Bronx who were willing to do something hard to get something good where our educations were concerned. It was a big change, and I gained a different sense of myself.

I remember Joe Rapaglia’s class.

He was tough but authentic as a teacher. We would ask questions in class, and he would ask us questions right back! He forced us to think and to be able to defend our views.

We learned the school was going to close during my junior year, and it felt like a real injury.

How were we going to recover from this? Sr. Mary talks to me often about that time, and her memories are vivid. I don’t remember a lot because it was so shocking. It felt impossible to think about transferring. I remember holding tag sales to raise money for the school, and my mother and little sister coming down from the Bronx

to help with those. All the families got involved. We fought for something we didn’t even know what it would be. The school eventually found a new location on St. Mark’s Place in the East Village. I was in Ghana with my family for the summer, and I remember insisting that I be back at ND for Senior Portraits. It meant taking a separate flight home from my parents, and I literally took a taxi from JFK to my new school building on St. Mark’s Place that morning. I was the Student Council president, and I needed to be there. When I arrived, I remember seeing John Joven and Rigo Chery screwing in lightbulbs and fixing a ceiling. Our school building was now steps from Tompkins Square Park. We saw a lot! ND changed me. I was forced to grow up, to turn outward, to find and develop a public voice.

Patricia: During the fall of my senior year, the 1972 presidential election ended in a landslide victory for Nixon despite the fact that the Watergate break in was on the news. Before the election, our social studies class was supposed to have a presidential debate, but no one wanted to be Nixon. Finally, I agreed to take on the challenge, and I learned so much from that exercise. I learned that no person is a singular dimension and no one is all bad. I drew on that experience later on as a lawyer when one of my mentors, a federal judge, advised me that to really be an effective advocate, you must be able to argue the other side’s case just as well as your own.

Justine: My time at Notre Dame was competitive but straightforward (in a good way). Technology has changed everyone’s lives in the last 20 years, but our class had no cell phones, no Google, no Starbucks, no Uber, no streaming, no Grubhub, no video games (only arcade) and no Amazon.

School was more than academics and striving for college acceptance; it was a way to gather with our friends and grow as young women.

Some of my memories include looking forward to hanging out in the lunchroom, playing on the basketball team, St. Ursula Day, and of course, school dances with Xavier, Regis, and LaSalle.

I formed close friendships with other students, and we respected and looked up to the school faculty and staff. The faculty challenged our way of thinking; they pushed us to be opinionated and speak up.

It takes a lot to hold the attention of teenage girls while making academics fun.

Academic excellence was our primary focus, and the workload

“Today there are so many opportunities, and the school does a great job exposing students to them.

Strong, capable women can do well!”

–Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ’65

was heavy. However, we did have some serious and even some funny debates, especially in History and English classes. Some discussions would continue after the bell and spill out into the hallways until the next bell rang. My son is a sophomore at Xavier, and I recognize that we were lucky not to have the distractions, like social media, that the kids have today. Our class grew closer every year at Notre Dame because everyone needed to be present to strengthen our friendships. We were spoiled in our brownstone location at 79th Street

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ALUMNAE BOARD MEMBERS with carpeted stairs and Miladys’s homemade meals served at lunchtime. Even at our St. Mark’s Place location, we had a live band play during class from time to time. Going to school in NYC was never dull.

Talya: Notre Dame was a school of diverse women from different cultures and different backgrounds. There were many times that assignments and class activities, for example, current events discussions in Mr. Rapaglia’s Social Studies classes, would spark conversations and allow for all to provide input and have open dialogue about important national and global issues. Often views expressed in the classroom were not shared by all, but the platform allowed us all an opportunity to hear, consider, and discuss others’ opinions. This is something I wish we could see a bit more of these days.

Carolyn: I always knew Notre Dame had great, wonderfully nurturing teachers, but I really didn’t realize how exceptional they were until I compared my high school experience with friends and colleagues. I also felt very well prepared for college academically. During my high school and college years, our country was in an era of seminal social change. My experience at Notre Dame helped me navigate all the newness and also helped me thrive and fully engage in this period of progress and breakthroughs.

During my career, I worked hard to make sure everyone was treated fairly and diversity in the school setting was honored. During this time period, there were racial tensions. I started a conflict resolution program at my school and trained students and faculty for peer mediation sessions.

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What led you to join the ND Board of Trustees, and how has that decision and your board participation shaped your vision of the school?

Johanna: My mother is a very loyal alumna, and seeing her remain connected to her alma mater imbued me with a sense of service to the school. Once I felt grounded enough in my career, I wanted to be a part of the next iteration of Notre Dame. It is my way of paying back all that my parents and the school did for me. Since joining the Board, I’ve been so impressed by the way

“As a female engineer for over two decades, I can tell you that sometimes there will be obstacles along the way, but obstacles are meant to be overcome. Remain focused and trust in the foundation and values that ND has taught you.

—Talya Pinto Santillan ’95 so many initiatives needed to keep the school running and thriving are aligned with its values. The school does embody its mission at its core and makes decisions accordingly.

Everyone puts so much thought and care into proposed changes and enhancements. Board members ask, are ideas for change representative of the values? As the school grows, there is also a growing awareness of the need to always do better and to be more inclusive and reach more students.

Monique: There’s a picture in my yearbook of me standing next to Sr. Mary. That’s how I think about

that time, Sr. Mary and I putting our heads together. I was just 17, but she would ask me, “What do you think? What do the students need? What am I not seeing?”

For an adult to trust me like that, it was remarkable. As students, we had been through a lot, but we were expected to lead, to be reasonable, to help. We knew we needed school spirit and engagement. We had to keep it together.

The summer after I graduated.

Sr. Mary told me, “I need help down here,” and I told her, “I need a job.”

So I worked in the school office that whole summer before college.

Once I was in college, I still leaned on ND. Mia Schilling, my English teacher, was really not much older than I, but I probably would not have returned to college one fall without her counsel and support.

Sr. Mary called me over the years after I graduated. She used to joke that I should be the school’s principal one day. As a Board member, I can return and contribute. I can be a leader and have an impact.

My professional background and experience with DEI issues seems very relevant at this time.

Patricia: As a student, my scholarship award made it possible for me to attend Notre Dame; most other girls in my neighborhood went to our diocesan high school or to Mary Louis Academy, which was close by. I have always wanted to give back to the school, and being on the Board is a great way to do that. It’s a rare gift to have a strong interest in an organization and also to have the qualifications and skills to make a contribution as a board member. Although my career has been in accounting and law, I have always been interested in education, and many of my family members are educators. My father was a sixth-grade teacher for many years and then an assistant principal and a principal. After I left

a big law firm and opened my own practice specializing in arbitration and mediation, I had more control over my schedule and more time to devote to things personally important to me, like ND. Through my role as a Board member, I can see first-hand how ND has grown into a bigger and more diverse community. I loved our building on West 79th Street, but the current building is a much more complete and modern facility. We didn’t have an art room or a gym. The science labs and library are much more extensive than we had on 79th Street. And there’s no longer a need for a typing room since today’s students have been using keyboards for years.

Justine: My sophomore year at Notre Dame was challenging because we lost the school building on 79th Street. From the student’s perspective, it felt hopeless, and it looked like our class was breaking up and everyone was looking at

different high schools. My parents, however, were hopeful and determined to fight to keep the school open. Along with other ND parents, my father didn’t give up on the school’s future and helped secure the next location on St. Marks Place in the East Village. Parents chose ND for their daughters for many reasons and knew the school was worth the fight. My father’s time with the ND Board, which I was lucky to witness first-hand, was rewarding and fulfilling. He stayed with the board for some time, and I still hear stories about his insights and his service to the school.

As my father gave his time, I, too, as a Notre Dame alumna, have made efforts to give back to the school. Whether I can provide a monetary gift or provide my time, I believe in ND’s educational program. Previously, I always wanted to involve myself more with the school, but life kept getting in the way. I put things into perspective

Patricia Cullen ’73

“I sense that at the ND of today you can be a smart, competitive person but one who will always have respect and admiration for others. “

and realized my father juggled many things, yet he always made time to be available for Notre Dame. I want to carry on his legacy of supporting the school and his dedication to the young women who will run the world one day.

As a Board of Trustees member, I look forward to bringing together my experiences in my career, my perspective as a minority student, and my interactions as an alumna to be an advocate for the school’s goals while tackling student life matters.

Talya: In recent years I have been involved with some infrastructure projects and Career Days at ND. Visiting the school really sparked the good memories from my time at ND. I decided I wanted to do more and get more involved. As an alumna feeling that sense of community when I walked in the doors, I thought it was important to pay it forward and give back.

Carolyn: I didn’t return to Notre Dame until the Farewell Party at the building on 79th Street. In the previous years, I was very busy with my career and family and found it challenging to keep up with my high school friends, even though I cherished them. After the party, I kept up more closely with the school. I met Board member Matt Killion P ’91 and alumna Vivian Cardia ’70 who told me all about the school, its move, and the formation of its Board of Trustees.

I started attending the Career Days when the school was on St. Mark’s Place. I got more and more involved and also started making financial contributions to the school.

In 2003, Sr. Mary Dolan asked me to be on the Notre Dame Board.

By then, I had plenty of experience to share as an AP and also as someone who had been involved in the Middle States accreditation process several times. I also became an Alumnae Sister to support specific

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ALUMNAE BOARD MEMBERS Justine Killion ’91

“Opportunities can steer your career path, and I know for sure that attending Notre Dame School was my opportunity. “

current ND students. I have always opted to donate anonymously in this role, but I am gratified that the students I have sponsored over the years have all done exceptionally well. I’m also proud to report that I have attended every Benefit but one over the course of more than 25 years.

Currently, along with my membership on the ND Board, I also serve on two other boards: Elmhurst Hospital in Queens, which was the epi-center of the COVID-19 crisis in the early days of the pandemic, and the Long Island Consultation Center, which provides mental health services to people in need.

What makes you proud of Notre Dame?

Johanna: My parents’ investment in a Notre Dame education for me has matured so much over time.

Now ND is an even more amazing place that cares so much about young people’s development in 14

school and in society. My high school education has continued to pay off for me in so many ways.

A lot of us feel that way.

Monique: I am so impressed by the blossoming of the school. Times are different in terms of what is required by and expected from a school. ND has a clear intentionality now about diversity. I’m also impressed by how well the ND community takes care of one another with kindness and support.

Patricia: I’m so proud that we have survived all this time. People were really upset about the sale of the buildings on 79th Street, and then 9/11 delayed our move to West 13th Street. But at Notre Dame, there always seems to be a core group of people determined and dedicated enough to make things happen.

And so far, there has always been enough financial support.

As when I went to school, I sense that at the ND of today you can be a smart, competitive person but one who will always have respect

and admiration for others. Another big difference since I was in school is that sports have flourished at ND. The fact that Brigid McCabe from the Class of ’21 could start a crosscountry team and is now a studentathlete at Columbia University speaks to the nimbleness and open-mindedness of the school.

The top college placements and numerous scholarships earned by our girls every year are a testament to the strength of the curriculum as well as the talent of our girls.

I’m proud of what our students accomplish, and how they seem so much more prepared to take on the world than we were at that age.

Justine: There are so many things that make me proud to say I am an alumna of Notre Dame. ND is a family. The sisterhood is strong at ND. It’s almost something that I can’t explain, but you know an ND student when you see one.

Our freshman year, we entered the school as a group of young women looking for direction and a good education. We ended up graduating as scholars, empowered and ready to accept any challenge or face any obstacle.

Notre Dame pushed me academically, which prepared me for an easier college life. But I remember and treasure most my long-lasting friendships and our journey during our four years together. Notre Dame created an atmosphere that accepted our differences, encouraged our expressions and opinions, and embraced our various backgrounds.

It was an environment where everyone was comfortable and felt safe, which allowed us to learn from another while getting an exceptional education. I still lean on my ND sisters, and it’s fun to remain close now that our children are in their high school years.

I have interacted with high schools throughout the city within my career, and Notre Dame, in

my opinion, is unique. The school has adapted to the change exceptionally well. Over the years, the school upgraded technology access, addressed student life issues, and made changes to the curriculum to reflect what its students want and need.

Talya: I am most proud of the education and strength that Notre Dame instills in young women.

Educating women to be strong individuals and giving them the confidence that they can do anything is a lesson that you just do not forget.

Carolyn: The school today is so different. We didn’t have AP or honors courses in my day. The approach was more traditional, in general. The schedule expansion of today is remarkable to be able to include AP classes and special programs like Anne’s Leaders.

During my years as a student, there was only one Black student in my class and no Asian-American students. The diversity of today’s ND is something to be very proud of.

I also well remember as an early Board member when making payroll was iffy. The school on St. Mark’s Place had no gym, and the East Village neighborhood was challenging. Today, ND is on solid financial ground in a beautifully renovated building.

What challenges do you believe the Notre Dame of today faces, and how are they similar to or different from the challenges of your high school years?

Johanna: Like a lot of learning institutions, there is a new focus on DEI issues and more of an impulse to be justice driven now at ND. It’s not something we weren’t doing before or were doing wrong, but there is now an awareness we hadn’t achieved in earlier years.

Now we know we have to push ourselves out of our comfort zones

where DEI work is concerned and weave it into the moral fabric of our school. The school’s mission propelled it to reach into marginalized neighborhoods to draw students. Notre Dame is crafting a response to the urgent call for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and moving the community forward.

Monique: I think about the financial health of the school going forward. I took a lot from the Sisters of St. Ursula who taught at the school when I was a student. It was painful to hear they had decided to close the school, but I also understand their need to take care of their futures. They taught us resilience; and though they forced us to struggle, they also fought right alongside us to relocate and survive. I think about the lack of accumulated wealth among marginalized people and in certain institutions, as well. I want Notre Dame to have

“As students, we had been through a lot, but we were expected to lead, to be reasonable, to help. We knew we needed school spirit and engagement. We had to keep it together.”

–Monique Sulle Bowen ’90 a safe, secure base so that the school never finds itself again in the situation it did when it had to move during my time as a student.

Justine: I feel like I have a bit of an advantage in assessing the growth of Notre Dame over the years. As an alumna, a daughter of a father who served with the Board, and a current Trustee, I see all sides of what it takes to support the school’s mission and goals.

Compared to my classmates, the current students are more affected by the “in your face” social climate of NYC. Although NYC had its challenges in the 80s and ’90s, most of us were shielded from it, pre-internet. My biggest afterschool hurdle often was trying to catch the train on time.

Today, I see a rise in student activism and awareness. The challenge ND faces is to determine which issues can be solved with academic solutions (like curricular changes) and which issues need to be given space outside the classroom. Notre Dame is aware students want change that reflects current social issues. Change doesn’t happen overnight. Keeping the communication open with students and parents and addressing issues within a timely manner has been helpful. Listening to student issues and finding a solution together is a step in the right direction.

Acknowledging matters within the school is an excellent strategic approach, but the school’s vision, foundation, and mission cannot be compromised or clouded.

The school is strongly focused on and committed to a culture of diversity, equity, and belonging for all in its community. It is ongoing and important work.

How does your experience at ND shape your sense of diversity and equity at the school? And what do you expect of and hope for Notre Dame regarding DEI efforts?

Johanna: It is all very interesting to me. My day-to-day work, my life’s vocation dealing with the justice system, is tightly tied to DEI. I’ve been working in this space for a very long time. At Notre Dame the sense of community, that feeling of being limitless, and being encouraged is so strong. There is always a distinction between one’s whole identity and how it shows 15

ALUMNAE BOARD MEMBERS up in the school. For instance, my commute to high school was horrible. I remember being cat called and inappropriately touched on the train. You bring those experiences with you, but because it’s a girls’ school, it’s a shared experience. An African American student has a different experience, one that it is not shared by all. It’s important not to diminish the reality of what happens beyond ND’s walls. Students are affected by gender, race, and class and have so many different experiences. It’s important to acknowledge those experiences and turn them into a shared, collective commitment to a nurturing environment.

Monique: When I was a student, it was a pretty diverse school, with many first-generation students, students of color, and the children of recent immigrants. There was a lot of striving of people who knew they had to do more to go far. The wealthy surroundings of our Upper West Side location gave way to the grit of the Lower East Side, but once inside the building on Saint Mark’s, it was still a place I recognized.

Still, we did not have a single non-white faculty member back then. Having a person of color in front of a classroom is a big thing.

Here’s where alumnae can come in.

As a new Board member, I am asking myself how can I help the lives of students in this way?

Patricia: During the years I was in school, Notre Dame did not have the same diverse student population that it does now, and all of the students were from within New York City. I learned first-hand the difficulty of being in a non-diverse environment in the early 1980s when I became the only woman manager at a Fortune 500 company in New York. As an employment attorney, one of my roles was to help employers to embrace diversity and create an environment where everyone is treated with respect. I am proud 16

that Notre Dame has become such a diverse community, and continues to make progress in diversity among the faculty, administration, and Board of Trustees. I believe the earlier in life you have exposure to diversity, the more it becomes natural. You learn that’s how life is supposed to be.

Justine: When you see a young woman scholar of distinction and prestige, it’s like you already know she is a graduate of ND. When an

“At Notre Dame the sense of community, that feeling of being limitless, and being encouraged is so strong.

–Johanna Vespe Aulisa ’01 issue arises within the school, we can predict that the student will be knowledgeable and understand that their challenges will be complex and demanding but not impossible to face. For those that do not know my background, I am a Black-Asian female who was adopted by an Irish-American family. If you have seen an episode of “This Is Us”, well then, that is me.

My 1991 class was very diverse, and our counselors put us on track with the college process, I don’t recall black colleges and universities at the forefront of the process. This is not a dig at ND or the guidance process. The guidance and the college path at ND have changed so much since the ’90s. I didn’t attend an HBCU, but having more information at the time would have contributed to a more inclusive range of choices for me and for other students of color.

Judgment is sometimes made in the first few minutes, or even

seconds, of meeting someone.

When I enter a room, you see a Black female. You do not know my family background, Catholic-based faith and education, or work experience within the foster care system and the NYPD. We have become a culture that does judge a book by its cover. My work ethic and how I treat others should speak volumes over my race and appearance. I have had up and down issues with equality in a male-oriented profession, so I can empathize with students that do not feel noticed and present.

The challenge is to do more than listen. That ND is asking these questions and making an effort to check in with everyone’s DEI education is a tremendous start.

Acknowledging the students and faculty could gain from educating one another regarding DEI issues is an excellent step toward strengthening the ND community.

Talya: I would like ND to focus on the importance of respect for others. Respect is a central school value and should be at the heart of every interaction and conversation.

Carolyn: I’m impressed that the school always finds a way to make time in the schedules to address issues of racial equity and social justice. When I was a student, most of my classmates were pretty well off. Today’s students come from varied social classes. Many are the first in their families to go to college. They have further to go from where they started, but they do it. I have seen Notre Dame get better and better every year.

What is your vision for ND in the years ahead? How do you see the road ahead unfolding to make that vision a reality?

Johanna: I look forward to watching Notre Dame continue to be this values-driven institution that prepares young women and sends them into the world. At ND there’s

no boundary to your success, growth, and development. I look forward to hearing success stories that started out at ND. Patricia: I want ND to stay independent and to stay all girls. I want it to be financially secure enough to always have the resources to attract the students who might otherwise not be able to attend.

The school has been really good at keeping up with technology, and I hope the school will always have a vision of what the next generation of girls needs and that the school will be able to offer them what they need and more.

Justine: I would like to see a closer relationship between the current students and the alumnae. Sounding alarmingly like my own mother, there’s a lot to learn from an older person with a bit more life experience. Notre Dame opened my eyes to the strength of women. The ND faculty uses their platform to give us the tools to prepare us for our next step in our journeys.

I can now provide that platform for an ND Student who wants to enter my field. Our alumnae have the opportunity to share their gifts of knowledge and networking to guide active students in their fields of choice. ND already does a great job with career days and alumnae events, but we can expand on our bridge to future success.

Talya: My vision for ND is for it to continue to educate women to be strong role models in the world.

Carolyn: It would be great if we could buy the building!

What advice do you have for today’s Notre Dame students?

Johanna: The communal and social education you get from your peers is just as important as the formal education that Notre Dame provides. Students are rare gems,

and they can help one another shine. Help one another stand out.

Lean on one another, especially during this time when so many questions challenge our moral values. Depend on the stable foundation of a Notre Dame education.

Monique: Reach beyond the lowhanging fruit. Don’t do the easiest thing. Ask a teacher for that letter of recommendation or for help with your college essay. I remember taking advantage of a summer program at Mount Holyoke when I was in high school and of becoming part of the Archbishop’s Leadership Project.

Someone at ND must have told me about both opportunities, and I went

Patricia: Enjoy these years in an environment where you can be who you are surrounded by peers and mentors who support you.

Take advantage of your home away from home in the big city.

We Queens girls often took the long way home —walking across Central Park and getting on the subway on the east side. One day we decided on some crazy whim to walk all the way home, and at that time there was no walkway on the 59th Street bridge! We went to museums; we shopped on 34th Street after school. I remember once sitting in the lobby of the New York Hilton with a classmate

Talya Pinto Santillan ’95

“During high school, it was actually Sr. Virginia, our school counselor at the time, who told me to look into engineering.

As they say, the rest is history.” for it! The Archbishop’s Leadership Project changed my life. It raised consciousness about race and inclusivity. It made me confident in my own agency. So I urge today’s student to take risks, within reason.

You’re in a safe space. Push yourself. Be bold.

speaking French to each other and pretending to be tourists. It sounds silly now, and I’m sure in our green uniforms we didn’t fool anyone, but it still makes me smile when I think about it. It reminds me that we studied hard but we still found time to have fun.

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ALUMNAE BOARD MEMBERS Justine: It’s hard to give just one piece of advice for today’s ND student. I like to compare my experience at ND to a four-leaf clover.

Individually, each petal is its own entity, but the flower isn’t whole

my graduating class. We might not talk every day, but when I hit people up on social media, it’s like we are back in the lunchroom all over again. Your inside jokes, class trips, funny moments together,

Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ’65

Talya: I want to tell ND students to be confident in who you are, respect others for who they are, and trust in the education that you receive at ND. Always challenge yourself, use your voice, and believe that you have been given the tools to succeed. As a female engineer for over two decades, I can tell you that sometimes there will be obstacles along the way, but obstacles are meant to be overcome. Remain focused and trust in the foundation and values that ND has taught you.

“Notre Dame helped me navigate all the newness and also helped me thrive and fully engage in this period of progress and breakthroughs.” until all four leaves bud together.

My petals for advice are broken into (but not limited to): education, sisterhood, self-worth and FUN. • Education: “Embrace your studies”. The education at ND is rigorous, but I felt like a junior when I started my freshman year of college. What I had learned in high school was light years ahead of the other students in my college. The re-integration of boys in the classroom wasn’t intimidating.

In fact, I found myself raising my hand with confidence and being the loudest in my debate class.

Every day I looked forward to coming to class and applying myself to excel.

• Sisterhood: “Enjoy your friendships and DON’T hold grudges.”

I keep in touch with a majority of 18

• FUN : “Yes...Fun.” These are your teenage years. Enjoy life. Enjoy spending time with your family.

Enjoy your friendships. Hang out (in person), de-stress, attend a school dance, meet up for coffee, volunteer.... I understand you are preparing for college, juggling school and sports, long commutes, etc. However, you are still young. Don’t let these years slip by without embracing your youth and having fun.

these will all stay with you for years to come. You will have traditions from ND that will carry on until your adulthood. Worrying about the little things and petty arguments will tarnish all the good times you will have over the four years. In the future as an ND graduate, your alumnae sisters will help you on your journey and support you when you cross paths.

• Self-worth: “You are IT, be true to yourself.” Can I say y’all are WOKE! I am beyond impressed with the current student body.

You want change and you are willing to accept responsibility for improving things for future ND students. ND has grown into a powerhouse of strong, educated women who are our future. Know your worth, because you matter.

Carolyn: I want to encourage current students to strive for the best outcome. Use what you’ve learned at ND and make a better society. Things are still tough for women, and we are dealing with the hubris of some men. The most successful countries in the world are run by women.

The ND students I’ve encountered are so confident and well spoken. I didn’t have those skills at their age. Many of the women I attended college with were there to look for husbands. We couldn’t even have credit cards in our names. Today there are so many opportunities, and the school does a great job exposing students to them. Strong, capable women can do well!

ND Alumnae Share Their College Campuses The college search process became even more complicated during the height of the pandemic. Luckily for these two ND teachers with

Writes ND English teacher, Jean Halloran: COVID certainly made many things difficult, and touring colleges was no exception.

Although many colleges welcomed you on campus, it was often without the allimportant in person tour. That is when I remembered that one of my former students, Olivia Halstead ’19, went to the Univerity of Virginia (UVA). I quickly emailed her mom and was soon in contact with Olivia, who, without skipping a beat, said of course she could give my daughter and me a tour.

Olivia was a wealth of information and took the better part of her Friday to impart all of her knowledge to us. My daughter learned about UVA dorms, some of her math classes, and the sororities. Olivia also was also able to fill us in on those all-important details about the food at the dining hall and the beautiful town of Charlottesville that is an extension of UVA. Often, we think of Chez Nous and the sisterly bond that the students have, but it is so nice to remember that the bonds of teachers and students stay strong, as well. Who knows, maybe my daughter will be lucky enough to be a sorority sister with Olivia someday.

applicant-age children, recent ND alumnae

Reports ND English Department Chair Scott Vasey:

currently attending the University of Virginia and American University had their backs!

In March, my 12th grade daughter Emma ’21 and I visited American University to get a sense of the campus and the surrounding neighborhood. Like many colleges and universities at that time, American was closed to guided tours and we knew that the best we’d be able to do is walk the campus and learn as much as we could on our own. But then we remembered that ND alumna Meaghan Bondi ’19 was a sophomore at American and we reached out to her to see if she might be available for a quick cup of coffee and tell us a bit about the school that she’s loved from Day 1. As I knew she would (I had the pleasure and privilege of having Meaghan in class for two years at ND), Meaghan told us she’d be happy to meet up for as long as we’d like on any day that worked for us. Meaghan showed us all around the beautiful campus, answered what were probably hundreds of questions, and even introduced us to a few friends who passed by. After the tour was over, it was wonderful to have a nice lunch with Meaghan and reconnect after a couple of years of not seeing each other.

By the end of the visit, American was my daughter Emma’s first choice out of dozens of schools she was considering at the time and I’m pleased to report that she began classes at American University in August of 2021.

What really stands out to me here, however, is the value of Chez Nous connections.

The bonds that form among ND students--whether they knew each other while at ND or not--are special, lasting, and valuable. So, too, are the bonds that form between ND students and their teachers. I will always be grateful to Meaghan for the time she gave my daughter Emma and me and, as Meaghan did before her, I know Emma will always be happy to help out her Chez Nous sisters in any way she can.

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2021 Graduation

A New Graduation Tradition!

Jaileen Wales, Karah Boodhoo, Samantha Anthony, and Angelina Antioco

Jesica Prendaj,Sophie Sambrotto, and Isabella Olivella 20

W

hat an extraordinary graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021, held on June 3rd in the spectacular setting of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City! This class had endured all the uncertainty, separation, and loss of beloved senior year traditions that came with the height of the COVID pandemic. More than anything, they longed to graduate together as a class. Fortunately, the landmark cathedral could accommodate our school.

To comply with virus safeguards, graduates were seated with their families, and all attendees submitted proof of vaccines or negative PCR tests before the ceremony. Graduates were seated in socially distanced assigned pews with their families, and everyone in attendance wore masks. But these minor inconveniences could not dim the beauty or excitement of Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2021.

Sr. Virginia O’Brien

Theology Teacher Kevin McDonald’s invocation was followed by Sr. Virginia delivering a welcome address that referenced the prophet Isaiah, especially apt in challenging times: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name.” Sr. Virginia focused on God’s unconditional love and sustaining grace.

Keyla Ballena and Lauren Aylesworth

Cecilia Fiorindo

Valedictorian Cecilia Fiorindo delivered the Address to the Graduates in a speech that emphasized the blessings of home and the challenge and rewards of finding a home no matter where life takes one, urging graduates to “find your calling, regardless of what that calling may be, [and] remember to create homes for yourself wherever you go, especially when it’s hard, especially when it’s uncomfortable, especially when you feel out of place.”

Cleo Maes 21

2021 Graduation

Brigid McCabe

Student Council President Brigid McCabe spoke passionately about the unity and strength of the Class of ’21 in her Farewell Address: “We have been separated by time and distance, and our bonds have only strengthened. And that is why, though we are sad to say goodbye as we prepare to go across the country and the world, this day and this time in our lives is one of joy and not loneliness. Because we know that our love is not diminished with time or distance.”

After ND’s Principal, Jackie Brilliant, sent the graduates off with a blessing in the form of a poem, “This Wonderful Opportunity,” by Cathy Song, the newest Notre Dame alumnae and their families filed out of the glorious cathedral for photos, mingling with their classmates and teachers, before heading to further celebrations.

Well done, Class of 2021!

Julia Incandela, Kaitlyn Leahy, and Lauren Vella

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The Class of ’21 on the steps of the Cathedral

Brianna Martinez-Burns ’22, Charlotte Sandler, Brigid McCabe, Annika Hegde ’22, Marietta Valente ’22

BACK ROW: Taylor Whitfield, Madelene Grullon, Imani Washington, Makayla Morgan, Jade Gonzalez FRONT ROW: Jennifer Reynoso, Thais Mondesir-Collins, Fanta Diop 23

SCHOLARSHIP STORIES

The Class of 2021 received academic scholarships at four-year colleges or universities totaling over

$25 million.

Emely Abreu Barnard College

Lucy Berquist University of Scranton

I have spent a lot of time reminiscing on my high school experience. I remember my first couple of weeks at Notre Dame and how difficult it was to make friends for me, as it felt like everyone had their group or knew someone at the school. Luckily, I had joined the cross-country team the August of freshman year and was able to meet upper classwomen, and other freshwomen. I remember always being excited to go to practice after school because I could talk to my teammates and have a good time. The cross country and track teams, along with other sports teams and clubs I was a part of, truly made my high school experience better and I will always cherish those memories.

What made Notre Dame so special to me was not only the people I met, but also the lessons I learned. Chez Nous taught me how to be an even more open and accepting individual, and I was able to learn so much from my teachers and my peers. I grew as a person, and I discovered new things about myself. The Notre Dame environment was crucial for me, and my friends and teachers always made me feel welcomed and accepted. I will always remember the friends I made at Notre Dame, as I know I can always count on them to be there for me and to make me laugh. And I will always remember the wonderful teachers, and how much I learned from them, whether it was a school lesson or life lesson.

It will be sad to graduate from Notre Dame, but I am excited

As I reflect on my past four years of high school, I am 100% confident that I made the right decision in attending Notre Dame. I have never been more thankful to belong to such a prestigious and giving community. With the help and guidance from teachers, administrators, coaches, and peers, I was able to thrive academically, athletically, and socially at Notre Dame. I was always given the opportunity to succeed whether I was at school early for extra help on a test, or staying late after practice to improve my game.

Notre Dame has not only helped me grow as a student, but has encouraged me to become a well-rounded young woman who is confident and passionate about my future. I am so thankful for all the lifelong relationships I have made at this school and I will forever be a part of the Chez Nous community. I am proud to say that I will be continuing

for my future endeavors at Barnard College on a full scholarship. I know Notre Dame has prepared me for this moment which would not have been possible without my family, my friends, and Chez Nous.

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my academic and athletic career at the University of Scranton

on near full scholarship, and I will be majoring in Kinesiology and playing women’s soccer. Without Notre Dame, my family, and my Chez Nous sisters, I would not be where I am today, and for that I am forever grateful.

Shiyin Ge Cornell University

Brigid McCabe Columbia University

Looking back at my time at Notre Dame, I feel immensely grateful for all the opportunities I have been given, the lifelong friends I have made, the wonderful teachers I have met, and the list could go on and on. I remember as an eighth grader, I was anxious about choosing the right high school. I knew I was looking for a school that had a strong community and a place where I could excel and become a better version of myself. After attending open house at ND, I knew I had found the place where I wanted to spend my next four years.

During my time here, I have come to realize how special ND is: ND is more than just a school, it is Chez Nous, our home.

A large part of my academic success can be attributed to my teachers. They are some of the most hardworking, understanding, and selfless people I know. I would like to give a special shoutout to Ms. Crosson, whom I admire and appreciate greatly for all that she is. She, like many at ND, is more than just a teacher but also a mentor, a confidant, and an inspiration. I am incredibly grateful to all the teachers at ND because I know without them, I wouldn’t have the academic foundation to succeed in college.

Of course, what has made my time truly unforgettable are the girls at ND. I have made so many amazing friends and incredible memories here, such as co-founding the first social justice committee with three of my best friends and going on my first service trip in junior year. I know this is just the beginning for many of the friendships I have made at ND, and I am excited to see where we all end up.

Although the last four years were not what I imagined them to be, especially with a pandemic that challenged us all, I wouldn’t have it any other way. ND has changed me for

During the past four years at Notre Dame, I have had the opportunity to be part of so many wonderful activities, clubs, and teams that have helped me grow as a person and create meaningful relationships. My time in student government, particularly as president this past year, has taught me so much about leadership and teamwork, and through collaboration bonded me with both teachers and fellow student leaders.

My freshman year, I started the Notre Dame Book Club with my friend Devon and our wonderful English teacher Ms. Kane. Since then, we have covered authors spanning from James Baldwin to Virginia Woolf, and generated amazing conversations with students, teachers, and even alumnae and families, providing a much needed sense of community even as we switched to a virtual format. Similarly, my role in the founding of our social justice committee, STAND (Solidarity Throughout All of Notre Dame), has been particularly rewarding, as I have seen its impact on uniting the Notre Dame community and inspiring girls to take action. The formation and expansion of this committee has created beautiful friendships with my fellow founders and our teacher supervisors, as well.

The activity that has shaped my time at Notre Dame the most is definitely track and field. I began running on the cross-country team freshman year, and immediately fell in love with it. My improvement was consistent, and by the end of my first year of running I qualified for the New York State championships. Since then, I have won five Catholic High School state championships and a number of city championships, as well. Most importantly, my love for the sport and my confidence in my own abilities has only grown. I owe all my success to my supportive parents, my dedicated coaches, and my uplifting teammates, many of whom have become my closest friends. Now I have the amazing opportunity to attend Columbia University on a near full scholarship where I will continue my academic and athletic career as a member of the track and field team. I am so excited to see what the future holds!

the better and I hope to bring everything I have learned here to Cornell, and beyond, thanks to my near full scholarship.

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SCHOLARSHIP STORIES Jennifer Reynoso Pace University

Abby Santos NYU

I began to get into sports through the experiences that my older siblings went through. In the 90s, my parents secured a spot for my older brother to compete on one of the top swim teams in New York. His journey with swimming inspired my older sister, Jessica Reynoso, ND ’13, to join the same swim team alongside my brother. Both of their journeys ultimately influenced me to want to swim, and I embarked on my own journey when I was around the age of 5.

Juggling the life of a student athlete required me to maintain a ton of self-discipline. I had practice seven or eight times a week and had to wake up at 4:30 in the morning. After a two-hour practice, I went straight into another hour of strength training, which could be extremely draining. Being a student athlete came with a lot of commitments, as well as a lot of hard work. At times, I would have to do my school work coming home from practice at eight or nine at night. I would even do some lastminute studying on my way to school coming from morning practice. Even though being a student athlete was difficult at times, I still continued to thrive at my school and in the pool.

Throughout my swimming journey and my time spent at ND, the support that came from my friends, teachers and guidance counselors motivated me to continue to push through every single day. Notre Dame has also helped me understand how to maintain a balance between swimming and school obligations through discipline. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, my swimming journey had to take a pause for a year and a half. During the college process, I advocated for myself and reached out to multiple college coaches about the opportunity to compete on the collegiate level. I had the best communication with the head coach of the Pace University swimming team, and we developed an amazing relationship. I received

These past four years at Notre Dame have passed so quickly and paved the way for my future. I truly believe that becoming part of Chez Nous has shaped who I am today.

I still remember riding the train to the school building for the first time, feeling nervous to go to school outside of Queens. These feelings dissipated, however, as soon as I was welcomed by the warm community at Notre Dame. Besides being able to build relationships with others that will last me a long time, I was able to discover what I loved and what I wanted to pursue in the future. At Notre Dame I also was able to pursue my existing interest in math and science and expand my knowledge in vigorous classes like AP Calculus and AP Computer Science. Through a multitude of classes and extracurricular activities, I had the opportunity to explore art and music during these past four years. I learned how much I loved making art and how much I enjoyed singing, and I want to continue to pursue both as hobbies in the future. I definitely have my teachers to thank, for all the guidance they have given me in and out of the classroom.

The college application process was long and difficult, and I know I would not have been able to get through it without help from my counselors, family, mentors and friends. At Notre Dame I found that I wanted to continue pursuing math and science, specifically computer science, but have the opportunity to still engage in my other interests in the arts. I applied to a large number of schools across the country, even becoming a QuestBridge National College Match finalist, but I eventually decided that staying in New York City for the next four years would be the right choice. I am thankful for all the experiences I have

an academic scholarship from the school and also earned an athletic scholarship to compete for the swim team in the NE-10 conference. GO, SETTERS! 26

had at Notre Dame, and I am looking forward to pursuing Computer Science and Engineering at New York University on a full scholarship.

Doniella Taylor-Ambersley NYU

Jaileen Wales Vanderbilt University

My time at Notre Dame has been filled with immense growth and learning that has helped make me the young woman I am today. It is remarkable to look back and see the incredible ways my education at ND has shaped me. When I first stepped into Notre Dame, I was shy and nervous for the journey ahead, but I quickly became a part of a community of Chez Nous sisters that embraced me and made ND feel like home. I also joined the thriving arts programs at Notre Dame, participating in both Glee and Drama Club. Beginning with my freshman year music class, Ms. Wakabayashi always pushed me outside of my comfort zone and fueled my love for music. At every club meeting or performance, my confidence soared and I was able to make lifelong friendships.

At Notre Dame I was truly able to thrive creatively, academically, and socially.

Living in a first-generation immigrant household, I did not know where to start when it came to the college admissions process, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. However, I always knew that my counselor, Ms.Cimera, would be there to help me and answer any questions that I had. Every single teacher has left a lasting impact and taught me lessons beyond the classroom that I will always carry with me. Guided under our school values of Courage, Service, Respect, Responsibility, and more, I feel prepared to conquer this new chapter in my life.

If I could describe my Notre Dame experience in one word, it would be influential. While looking for a high school in 2017, I yearned for a place with an academic and extracurricular balance that would allow me to have new experiences and expand my horizons. From the minute I set foot in Notre Dame to the last time I exited the double doors at the front of the building, this school has never failed to exceed my expectations.

Notre Dame has influenced me as an individual in countless ways. ND has taught me how to challenge myself and embrace an academically rigorous program. Each and every single course at ND has influenced my intellect and fostered my ability to approach every class, subject, or situation with confidence and grace. ND has also taught me what it is to be a friend. I have met some of my closest friends at Notre Dame, and I can’t help but attribute that to the school’s welcoming and loving atmosphere. Each and every relationship that I have made at ND can never be broken, whether that is with the girls I call my best friends or the teachers that I have spent countless hours talking to.

Notre Dame has taught me to be a leader and proponent for social justice. ND has provided me and countless others with the outlet to be activists and partake in the social justice issues and movements that we hold near and dear. Above all, Notre Dame has influenced the person that I have become.

Over the course of four years, I transitioned from a shy little girl to an outspoken, confident young woman who is ready to take the world by a storm. Notre Dame has prepared me for what life has to offer, and, as an ND girl, I am ready to embrace the challenges that life presents me with open arms. Besides all of the academic, personal, and character growth that ND has provided, they have allowed me to achieve only the first of my countless dreams. Thanks to ND’s academic rigor, extracurricular classes, and immense influence, I am proud to say that I will be attending

I am proud to say that I will be attending New York University on a full scholarship to study Marketing and Fashion Business. I was also selected to join a small pool of admitted students in the Albert Gallatin Scholars Program at NYU, where I will engage in research projects and work closely with faculty during international trips across the globe. Notre Dame not only prepared me to reach my goals but to exceed them. I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to spend four years at Notre Dame and will never forget all the amazing memories that I have made there.

Vanderbilt University on a full scholarship to study Cellular and Molecular Biology.

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WHY I GIVE

Vivian Cardia ’70 Vivian Cardia ’70 recently gifted ND with a $20,000 donation to be received annually in perpetuity. She continues to be a Chez Nous Angel by listing ND in her estate. She is a blessing and hopes others wil be inspired to follow her lead.

Vivian stopped by the school this fall to reminisce about her high school years and update us on her current busy life.

Fond Memories and Lasting Values Like so many Notre Dame students today, it was the Open House on West 79th Street that convinced Vivian she wanted to attend ND: “It felt like home.

All the students were welcoming and inclusive. I was lucky enough to be admitted.” Growing up on Carmine Street in Greenwich Village (not far from the school’s current location), community was important for Vivian.

She remembers well starting out as a ninth grader and being worried about not knowing anyone, but as it turned out the girl who sat right in front of her that first day became her close friend. Notes Vivian, “The nuns were really our friends, too,” citing Mother William, especially, who tutored her in Chemistry, after Vivian received the warning “white card” in the subject. Sr. Genevieve taught students how to set a table and how to have tea. Vivian and her classmate, Dr. Virginia O’Brien, S.U., current President of ND, reminisced about having to memorize Geometry theorems every week and being expected to get them all right. Students had access to wonderful costumes from the Met Opera and loved donning them for school cantatas, which were performed on a very small stage in the building on West 79th Street. Vivian also remembered fondly Ring Days and the Feast of St. Ursula celebration. She loved being in an all-girls school, finding it to be one less distraction.

Boys and girls got together for dances and activities 28

such as Glee Club with Cardinal Hayes and Debate Club with Regis.

Some aspects and traditions have changed. There were only three lay teachers during Vivian’s years at the school. She recalled having to wear hats and gloves, and even galoshes when it rained. Students had to work off demerits by cleaning around the school and, sometimes, polishing the silver. Vivian admits to often rolling her skirt and also noted that, “If we got in trouble, we never told our parents, because we would get in trouble all over again at home!” She remembers a particular time when a classmate forgot her gloves, and Vivian volunteered to throw her own pair down to her from inside the building. Unfortunately, Vivian’s gloves hit Mother Daniel as they sailed out the window, and her good deed backfired quite dramatically.

Life after ND A lover of languages, Vivian took four years of French and Latin while at ND and was fluent in Italian, which was spoken at home. She is proud that she can still remember the first lines of Virgil’s Aeneid from her time at ND. The school didn’t offer electives back then, but she ended up being grateful for the typing class, which helped her a great deal in college.

Her family told her she could go to any college she wanted, as long as she could still sleep at home. She loved her years at Fordham, where she continued to study languages (including Russian) and which she relished as another close community. Vivian found that Notre Dame prepared her for college, having taught her how to organize her thoughts, use her time well, and get things done. To this day she still has a copy of the notes she took of her class’s reading of the Dickens classic Bleak House. She also admits to resubmitting a high school English paper in college.

She got a B at Notre Dame and earned an A for the same paper at Fordham. Says Vivian, “I told Sr. Kieran I wanted my high school English grade changed retroactively!”

While a high school student, Vivian taught CCD and also volunteered at the Foundling Hospital.

Those early service experiences cemented a love of working with young people, and she currently helps

“ND gave you a wonderful foundation. You’ve done well.

It’s your duty to give back.”

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WHY I GIVE

“The school just keeps doing better and better, and they will continue to do so, as long as they stay true to their mission.

What an amazing track record!” at-risk children in Florida. “There’s a lot of sadness,” says Vivian, and her high school experiences prepared her to step up to assist others. Notre Dame taught values, she affirmed. The nuns instilled them by example. “We knew right from wrong. Everyone had a forte. We all helped one another.”

Following her graduation from Fordham, Vivian, along with her family, owned and managed a restaurant, The Beatrice Inn, in the West Village.

The Cardias were kind enough to host many memorable events for Notre Dame at the Beatrice Inn. In time, Vivian became one of the first women Italian-American members and traders on the American stock exchange. After the death of her parents, Vivian set up Vivicar LLC, to manage her properties and to further her parents’ legacy.

Vivian sat on the Board of the National Organization of Italian American Women, La Scuola d’Italia, and was a member of Fordham’s Board of Visitors.

She currently sits on the Board of Trustees of John Cabot University in Rome; the Board of the Ligurians in the World in New York; the American Society of the Italian Legion of Merit, who bestowed the title of Cavaliere Della Republica upon her; and the American Foundation of Savoy Orders, who knighted her a Dama di Commanda. Vivian won the Anne de Xainctonge award from Notre Dame at last year’s Chez Nous Benefit.

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A View of Today’s ND Of the current school, Vivian says, “I’m so proud of it.

They have the best person at the helm (with a glance toward classmate Sr. Virginia). The school just keeps doing better and better, and they will continue to do so, as long as they stay true to their mission. What an amazing track record!” When asked to offer advice to today’s students, Vivian urges them to make strong connections and to remember, “It’s a family. It’s our house, and we treat it as such.” She hopes the students of today will study hard and be thoughtful and kind. “Keep your girlfriends—they’re very important.”

For her part, Vivian has returned for almost every class reunion, even attending a reunion event the same morning as her mother’s funeral. She’s a firm believer in the uniform and its purpose as an equalizer. She urges students to explore culture by going to museums and the theater, and to read, read, read.

She encourages students to serve their communities and to develop the habit of giving.

ND’s Future For Vivian, gratitude for the school came naturally and immediately, noting, “I really think ND laid my foundation.” To her Chez Nous sisters on why they should give to the school, Vivian puts it clearly: “ND gave you a wonderful foundation. You’ve done well.

It’s your duty to give back. That’s how my parents raised me. For instance, when you dine out, you leave a big tip, because that person will appreciate it.

Affirm to people that they’re worth it. Treat everyone generously and equally.”

Notre Dame is extremely grateful to Vivian for her very generous gift in perpetuity, which allows the school to increase its scholarships for qualified students who need financial assistance. Without the generosity of Vivian and other alumnae like her, the school would not be able to grow its vital scholarship program. Over 70% of Notre Dame students receive tuition assistance. Vivian’s leadership annual gift helps make this possible. We know current Notre Dame students are inspired by and grateful to Vivian!

FAC U LT Y N E W S ND’s Associate Director of School Counseling, Carly Savino, married Christopher Stawski on June 18, 2021 in Stroudsburg, PA. Congratulations, Carly and Chris!

Claire Littlefield, social studies teacher, had a busy summer! She finished her Master of Science in Teaching, Adolescent Social Studies, from the Fordham Graduate School of Education, with a 4.0 GPA. Her final portfolio included lesson plans and Zoom recordings from Sophomore Native American History discussions, test prep sessions with AP World, and one-on-one research conferences with US history students.

Claire reports that her field supervisors were so impressed by ND students! She expects to be certified with the state this fall.

Later in the summer, on July 24, 2021, Claire married Nate Lynch on Peaks Island in his home state of Maine. Their officiant was Deacon Mark Shiner, the Catholic chaplain at Colgate University, which both bride and groom attended. Claire was so grateful for the vaccines that allowed them to celebrate with friends and family!

Elizabeth Bixenman, Director of Development and Alumnae Relations, welcomed a little baby girl on Saturday, May 15, 2021. Her name is Parker Rae Bixenman, and although tiny, she is certainly fierce! The family is feeling blessed and truly grateful for all of the love and support they have received from their Chez Nous family.

This past year, music teacher and Art Department Chair Nicole Wakabayashi was able to collaborate with mxmtoon (whose real name is Maia), a New York based singer songwriter, who has gained traction on numerous social media platforms, notably TikTok (just ask any ND student!) with her song Prom Dress. Over the past few years, mxmtoon has released several EPs and full-length albums in addition to maintaining her online presence. mxmtoon’s management reached out to Nicole back in September of 2020 to shoot the NPR Tiny Desk performance, which was ironically shot at the world’s biggest desk (located right up the street from ND in Chelsea!) More recently, they performed together for a live streamed concert for GeniusLive over at their studios in Gowanus. Notes, Nicole, “As a music teacher, one of the most important things I can continue to do is remain an active performer.”

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2021 College Matriculation

One hundred percent of the Class of 2021 matriculated to four-year colleges or universities.

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American University

Loyola University Chicago

Stonehill College

Barnard College

Loyola University Maryland (2)

Stony Brook University

Bentley University

Manhattan College

SUNY at Albany (2)

Boston College

Marist College (2)

SUNY Cortland

Columbia University

Middlebury College

Temple University (4)

Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

Moravian University

The University of Tampa

New York University (3)

Universiteit van Amsterdam

Cornell University

Nichols College

University at Buffalo

CUNY Brooklyn College

Northeastern University (2)

University of Miami

CUNY Hunter College (2)

Northwestern University

University of Michigan

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice (2)

Nova Southeastern University

University of Scranton (2)

Pace University (2)

Delaware State University Duquesne University

Pennsylvania State University (3)

University of South Carolina (2) University of Vermont

Emory University

Providence College

University of Virginia

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Rhode Island School of Design

Vanderbilt University (2)

Fordham University (3)

Rhodes College

George Washington University

Sacred Heart University (2)

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Santa Monica College

Wake Forest University

Georgetown University

St. John’s University (2)

Wesleyan University

Howard University

State University of New York at New Paltz

Winston-Salem State University

Villanova University (3)

N O T R E D A M E S C H O O L 2020  2021

Annual Report

2020–2021 Gift Club Members The Notre Dame Annual Fund offers several Gift Club opportunities.

We are very grateful to our Gift Club members for their generous donations.

Our Lady of Lourdes Society $100,000 or more

The Honor Society $3,000–$6,499

Principal’s Circle $1,000–$1,999

Anonymous The Carson Family Charitable Trust Dr. Grace C. Pilcer

Class of 2021 Mr. Eric Eckholdt & Mrs. Jeanne Noonan Eckholdt Ms. Maria-Andree Eiting Estate of Genevieve Connolly Cunningham ’33 Mary Jane Drucker Gabbay ’63 Mr. Michael Halloran & Ms. Catherine Halloran Nancy McNamara Haney ’58 Antoinette LeQuire-Schott ’59 McCallum Family Foundation Mr. Warren Nelson & Ms. Christa Nelson Mr. Douglas O’Brien & Eileen Griffin O’Brien Judy Pan ’83 Jack & Sarah Raslowsky Norma Moglia Reidy ’77 Mr. Victor Santillan & Talya Pinto Santillan ’95 Ms. Tanya Kim Snow ’63 St. Joseph’s School-Yorkville Mr. Ray Sozzi Mr. Ron Gottschalk & Ms. Mary Thaman

Eileen O’Donohue Adkins ’65 Archdiocese of New York Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Anthony Johanna Vespe Aulisa ’01 Ms. Kathleen Anne Baum Mr. & Mrs. Donald Baum Mr. Oliver Will & Ms. Kimberly Beck Mr. Michael Bettigole & Mrs. Katherine Bettigole Ms. Jaclyn Brilliant & Mr. Anthony Jenks Jean McGrath Brodeur ’91 Brooklyn Jesuit Prep Dawn Tennant Calabia ’58 Mr. David Transom & Ms. Aisling Carroll Ms. Joan Clark Elizabeth Drucker Condrige ’64 Mr. & Mrs. Martin Cottingham Mr. J. Finian Kellaghan & Ms. Gina DeFina Mr. Jonathan Denham & Mrs. Barbara Denham Rosemary DeNatale Dineen ’73 Jane Clifton Dockery ’61 Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Fernandez Ms. Emily Fleischer Brigid Frey ’77 Muriel Flynn Gonzalez ’70 Mr. William Haddad & Mrs. Deirdre Dunn Haddad Mr. Thomas Newman & Dr. Anne Hardart Mr. Don Harding & Mrs. Katharine Harding Mr. Hakeem Haughton & Dr. Michele Haughton Mr. Daniel Dougherty & Ms. Hee-Sun Hong Mr. Christopher Horrigan & Ms. Christa Horrigan Moira Gleason Kowal ’77 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Kurtis Mr. & Mrs. John Joven Lacor Mechanical System, Inc. Mr. Michael Landry & Mrs. Elizabeth Landry Ellin Rosasco Learned ’66 Parutta Leeyawanich ’88

Anne de Xainctonge Angels $50,000–$99,999 Inner City Scholarship Fund and the Partnership for Inner City Education Sarita Kenedy East Foundation, Inc.

Anne de Xainctonge Associates $25,000–$49,999 Anonymous Cornelia Connelly Center for Education Estate of Felice O’Brien Earley The Hyde and Watson Foundation

Mother Genevieve Guild $10,000–$24,999 Anonymous Brooklyn Benevolent Society Cardia Family Scholarship Mr. Raphael De Niro & Ms. Hannah De Niro Mr. & Mrs. Raymond P. Dolan Harris Mathews Charitable Foundation Mary Burke Heyman ’55 Mr. & Mrs. Jack Houlihan Ms. Julia Pilcer Lichtenstein Ms. Ann Lopez The Michael Gordon Foundation Ms. Mary Ellen O’Brien Ms. Elizabeth Roth Sisters of St. Ursula Mr. & Mrs. John Spollen Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ’65 Alexandra Rynczak Teper ’81 Virginia Turezyn ’75

Trustees’ Circle $6,500–$8,749 Columbus Citizens Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Keith Hrazanek Bernadette Castellano McSweeney ’70 Carol Rowbo ’79

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Chez Nous Circle $2,000–$2,999 Anonymous Kathleen Dunne Carberry ’69 Mr. & Mrs. Sunil Damodar Patricia DiTolla ’62 Mr. & Mrs. John Eck Mr. John Licitra & Catherine Vadasz Licitra ’91 Mr. Brian Neville & Ms. Maureen Melnick Thelma Milliken Negley ’66 Mr. Richard A. Norton Ms. Gloria Picariello Stephanie Pinto ’62 Arlene Deninger Prendergast ’60 Mr. James Quinn & Agnes McComiskey Quinn ’61 Mrs. Patricia Richlin Mr. & Mrs. Michael Robinson Dr. David Stuhr Ms. Kate Thomes Ms. Mary Wright Mr. Richard S. Zimmerman

Contributors

Chrystia Slywotzky ’72 Liana Rosasco Smith ’70 Virginia Williams Suttell ’48 Xavier Jesuit Community Eileen Drucker Zwart ’76

1912 Club $500–$999 Augie & Kathie Aloia ’74 Paula Andryuk ’75 Mr. Jeffrey Angelo & Ms. Eileen Angelo Anne Rose Asch ’78 Mr. Essa Bateh & Ms. Janice Bateh Mr. Gregg Buckbinder Ms. Joanne Burns Ms. Cheryl Callan Mr. & Mrs. Rob Clores Patricia Connelly ’61 Ms. Virginia Connor Mr. John Conroy & Ms. Kathleen Wilson Conroy Mr. & Mrs. Michale Cooper Mr. Lloyd Cornelius & Mrs. Stacey Ryan-Cornelius

Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Corsico Mr. Anthony Costantini Mr. & Mrs. Bracken Carter Craft Carol De George ’84 Mary Susan King Delahunty ’61 Mr. Konstadinos Stavrou & Mrs. Paraskevi Dilana Ms. Laureen Fredella Rev. Kenneth Gavin, S.J. Mr. Gene Gemelli & Ms. Gina Cavazzini Gemelli Mary Ann Paszkiewicz Gordon ’73 Mr. Peter Baracskai & Mrs. Theresa Howard Patricia Cook Hult ’60 Mr. Brendon McNamara & Dr. Karen Jagatic Ms. Alison Johnston Ms. Anne V. Kane Mr. William Keefe & Alice Alves Keefe ’91 Patricia Sheehan Kirwan ’60 Mr. & Mrs. Edward Knapp Jane Masterson ’64 Lily Roemischer ’23

Mr. Christopher Flynn & Ms. Maureen Marren Mary Ellen Masterson McGary ’66 Ms. Melissa U. Meserve Ms. Arlene Miller Ms. Maureen Nugent Mr. Vincent O’Brien Mr. George Delaney & Ms. Louise O’Connor Mr. Miguel Osio Geralyn McBennett Randazzo ’78 Catherine Smith Rendine ’40 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph P. Riccardo Mr. Huw Richards & Ms. Allison Richards Suzanne Drucker Robotham ’68 Mary Ellen Milazzo Roche ’65 Ms. Carol Roche Mr. Scott Schoneman & Ms. Lana Schoneman Mr. William Schwebel & Ms. Lori Schwebel Mr. John Semczuk & Mrs. Allis Semczuk

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Karisma Garcia ’22

Contributors

Mr. & Mrs. Cristobal Mayendia Ms. Tirzah McCarthy Frances Dellunde McIntyre ’56 Ann Milanese ’72 Mr. Christopher Morris Mr. & Mrs. Terence A. Mullervy Mr. Michael Murray & Ms. Christine Murray Mr. Thomas O’Brien Maria Cristina Rodriguez O’Neill ’68 Mr. & Mrs. David Piscitelli Mr. & Mrs. George Reber Mr. Thomas Roemischer & Mrs. Julia Glazer Roemischer Amalia Garcia Samoylenko-Russian ’56 Ms. Phyllis Sollecito Gabrielle Solleder ’75 Sara Stalkus ’66 Mr. & Mrs. Andreas Stuhr Nicla Antonini Taddei ’81 Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Tresca Dr. Phyllis Trible Mr. Joseph Vadasz Mr. & Mrs. Steven Verveniotis Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Walls Mr. Andrew Watt Mr. & Mrs. Paul Whelan Mr. Gerard Woods & Ann Marie Walsh Woods ’85

Crown & Anchor Club $100-$499 Ms. D’arcy Achziger Rosana Gonzalez Agostini ’75 Mr. Adam Alter & Mrs. Erika Alter Mr. & Mrs. John Altomare Erica Zissel Andrinopoulos ’08 Amazon Smile Foundation Nurit Ambrose Marianne Burchell Anderson ’90 Melody Andres ’71 Ms. Susan Angelo Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Aninos Angelina M. Arlia ’92 Ms. Bridget Austin Mr. & Mrs. Jason Aylesworth Ms. Erica Barrett Eileen Cunningham Bartley ’60 Ms. Kenna Baudin Mr. & Mrs. Eric Berquist 36

Ms. Mary Kate Blaine Monique Sulle Bowen ’90 Ms. Julia Bradford Maureen Brophy ’55 Mr. & Mrs. Edward Browne Ann Burke Bunting ’70 Mr. & Mrs. Alex Cabarcos Mr. Johnny Rosario & Mrs. Niurka Campusano Ms. Janet Canela Ms. Barbara Capeci Patricia Murphy Carlin ’60 Mr. Miguel Ballena & Ms. Jessica Carrion Ms. Candi Carter Veronica Castellano ’69 Barbara Nesbitt Cautero ’51 Ms. Eleanor Cesaria Mr. & Mrs. David Chang Kathryn Doyle Chapar ’74 Nancy Breen Coey ’61 Mr. & Mrs. Vincent Cody Robin Collymore ’80 Mr. Paul Conley & Mrs. Alana Chuong Adrianne Hopper Comerford ’82 Mr. Gordon Medenica & Ann Connolly ’71 Edwina Morgan Conrad ’55 Catherine McDonough Corcoran ’60 Mr. & Mrs. Jose Cruz Mr. & Mrs. James Cuddihy Stephanie Durso D’Alessandro ’85 Kathleen Walsh D’Arcy ’66 Dr. Sandra Davis & Mr. Keneth Davis Carol Gose DeVine ’66

Sr. Michaeline Devine ’60 Virginia Dillon ’76 Jane Simpson Dolan ’81 Sr. Mary Dolan, S.U. Mr. Vincent Dolan Vilma Rita Hall Dorgan ’88 Rev. George Drance, S.J. Mr. & Mrs. John F. Duffy Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Duggan Laisha Washington Duley ’99 Alice Prajka Dunatov ’70 Mr. Christopher Dunleavy & Ms. Elizabeth Dunleavy Mr. Dennis Dunne & Judy Eustace Dunne ’75 Mr. Mark Echavez Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ernau Lilian Migliorini Evans ’84 Brenda Ewald ’60 Ms. Meredith Fales Christina Falzon ’97 Helena Albuquerque Fenyo ’85 Rita Ferrone ’75 Mr. & Mrs. Marlon Figueroa Ms. Jill Floyd Jean Ann Hoban Flynn ’61 Mr. Marc Foley & Bridgette Brennan Foley ’90 Ms. Eileen Frawley Mr. & Mrs. John Galperin Mr. & Mrs. Emilio Garcia Mr. Patrick Gately & Lisa Dunleavy Gately ’91 Ellen Beitz Geraghty ’68 Mr. Daniel Putignano & Mrs. Lisa Giella

Contributors

Mr. James Greene & Mrs. Jeannie Giordano Patricia Roach Gogolak ’60 Mr. & Mrs. Mark Granger Ms. Kerry Greaney Audrey Masi Greene ’52 Elizabeth Morales Gregg ’66 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gregory Mr. & Mrs. Robert P. Grote Cara Villano Guerra ’92 Joan Maria Salubayba Guerrero’92 Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Hanks Christina Terminelle Harley’77 Ms. Laura Heeger Victoria Hernandez ’70 Mr. Dennis J. Hickey & Ms. Ann Hickey Patricia Aloma Hicks ’63 Christine Pidhorodeckyj Hillenbrand ’73 Mr. James Hillman Laura Lipani Hines ’94 Ms. Iveta Holyland Ms. Margaret Hughes Mr. & Mrs. John Huvane Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Incandela Josephine Mary Lawlor Jamieson ’85 Mr. Casey Kaplan & Ms. Samantha Treacy-Kaplan Mr. Golfo Karageorgos Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Kenny Mr. & Mrs. Michael King Mr. Scott Kumbalek Mr. & Mrs. Anthony La Malfa Dr. Frank Lacqua & Ms. Eva Lacqua Maureen McNamara Laraia ’70 Mr. Richard Leahy & Ms. Kathleen Leahy Mr. Eugene Layos & Ms. Glezie Legaspi Mr. Brian Sy and Ms. Kathy Lee Mr. Alaric Lejano Mr. George Logar & Ms. Mercedes Logar Christine Biondi Maciejak ’68 Bethsabe MacKnight Maria Madison ’73 Ms. Li Reilly-Madlin Lorraine Riccobono Mahony ’69 Roseanne Mallner ’66 Mr. & Mrs. Leonat Malshyti Victoria Hoffmann Marsh ’82 Ann Masterson ’72 Mr. Brian McCabe & Ms. Mary McCabe +Deceased

Jean Cody McCall ’93 Mr. & Mrs. Christopher M. McCarthy Mr. & Mrs. Robert McGoldrick Deirdre Dundon McCormack ’64 Rosemarie McGrath ’59 Lauren McNamara ’01 Elizabeth McNamara Melcher ’76 Mr. & Mrs. Adam Mietus Mr. & Mrs. Jim Mirenda Dr. Kendall Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. Mark Mongelluzzo Jeanine Ramos Monteiro ’84 Mr. & Mrs. Christopher G. Moran Mr. Richard Mulcahy & Ms. Sheila Mulcahy Robin Newman ’85 Mr. & Mrs. John Noonan Mr. Joseph Noto & Mrs. Maureen Noto Diana Priolo O’Brien ’82 Mr. & Mrs. Daniel O'Brien Dr. Virginia O'Brien S.U. ’70 Kathleen O’Connell ’84 Mackenzie O’Connor ’14 Mr. John O’Donnell Maura O’Halloran ’15 Ms. Catherine M. O’Hara Elizabeth O’Malley ’14 Dr. Inno J. Onorato & Dr. Rukhsana Sadiqali Onorato Ms. Emilia Orengo-Vera Mary O'Shaughnessy ’81 The Honorable Ann O'Shea ’66 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Overall Patricia Masterson Palacios ’69 Ms. Marion Paolucci Ms. Rosemary Paparo Mr. & Mrs. Todd Parker Suzanne Fenech Pascocello ’98 Leigh Combes Phillips ’60 Andrea Sussman Pieper ’68 Mr. Joseph Licciardi & Ms. Catherine Pino Dale Drucker Prifti ’71 Lorraine Pucher-Petersen ’73 Johanna Harvey Puppolo ’61 Mr. Shlomo & Mrs. Gabriella Rakib Ms. Adrienne & Alessandro Ratto Mr. Pete Rei Ms. Vanessa Rhinesmith

Ms. Patricia B. Richards Mr. Raymond Rivera & Ms. Gladys J. Rivera Maria Rivera-Trudeau ’60 Mr. Brian Michael Rohan Elzbieta Czerska-Rojas ’98 Mr. Robert F. Rose & Mrs. Mary A. Rose Mr. Robert Rose Kathleen Koppinger Rowe ’63 Dr. Eileen Ryan ’75 Dr. Tara Ryan ’77 Joanna Randazzo Saccone ’69+ Mr. Marvin Santos & Ms. Cristina Santos Lillian Gonzalez Sarro ’73 Mr. & Mrs. Richard Schaedle Cheryl O’Rourke Schmidt ’65 Ms. Mary Schmutter Alison Turnbull Schoew ’71 Brigid Scott ’74 Mr. & Mrs. Michael J. Seymour Sue Ellen Mulligan Sheeley ’63 Mary Sheils ’60 Dr. & Mrs. Luis Silva Chantal Trotta Simpson ’76 Mr. James Long & Mrs. Beth Smith-Moncrief Mr. & Mrs. Gino Soave Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Stordeur Lorraine Prajka Sturmfels ’60 Elaine Feeley Swords ’62 Mr. & Mrs. Adam Szpala Donaldine Temple, Esq. ’91 Mr. Richard Love & Mrs. Kyle Thomes Clare Begley Thomson ’62 Mr. Elmer Torres Tania Torres ’00 Louise Pociecha Toth ’61 Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Valente Karina Vargas ’02 Ms. Veracelle Vega-Hansen Helen K. Madden Vespe ’73 Mr. & Mrs. Paul M. Waldo Most Rev. Gerald T. Walsh Mary Werthman ’53 The Honorable Milton Williams & Ms. Rose Williams Mr. Steve Womer Betty Lou Jeffrey Wright ’48 Anne Marie Vagra Zanfardino ’81

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Contributors The names of contributors to the 2020-2021 Annual Fund are listed on the following pages in the following categories: Alumnae, Current Parents, Alumnae Parents, and Friends. We at Notre Dame are deeply grateful for the moral and financial support of all our contributors.

ALUMNAE 1947 Catherine SMITH Rendine 1948 Betty Lou JEFFREY Wright Virginia WILLIAMS Suttell 1951 Barbara NESBITT Cautero 1952 Audrey MASI Greene 1953 Mary WERTHMAN 1955 Maureen BROPHY Mary BURKE Heyman Edwina MORGAN Conrad 1956 Frances DELLUNDE McIntyre Amalia GARCIA Samoylenko-Russian Mary Frances SHERIDAN DeLaney 1958 Nancy McNAMARA Haney Dawn TENNANT Calabia 1959 Elizabeth DiTOLLA, SU Antoinette LeQUIRE-Schott Rosemarie McGRATH 1960 Leigh COMBES Phillips Patricia COOK Hult Eileen CUNNINGHAM Bartley Arlene DENINGER Prendergast Sr. Michaeline DEVINE ’60 Brenda EWALD Florence HALLERAN Ricca Catherine McDONOUGH Corcoran Patricia MURPHY Carlin Maria RIVERA Trudeau Patricia ROACH Gogolak Patricia SHEEHAN Kirwan Mary SHEILS

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1961 Nancy BREEN Coey Jane CLIFTON Dockery Patricia CONNELLY Johanna HARVEY Puppolo Jean Ann HOBAN Flynn Mary Susan KING Delahunty Agnes McCOMISKEY Quinn Louise POCIECHA Toth 1962 Clare BEGLEY Thomson Patricia DiTOLLA Elaine FEELEY Swords Stephanie PINTO 1963 Patricia ALOMA Hicks Mary Jane DRUCKER Gabbay Kathleen KOPPINGER Rowe Anne MARSH Stottler Sue Ellen MULLIGAN Sheeley Tanya Kim SNOW 1964 Elizabeth DRUCKER Condrige Deirdre DUNDON McCormack Jane MASTERSON 1965 Mary Ellen MILAZZO Roche Eileen O’DONOHUE Adkins Cheryl O’ROURKE Schmidt Carolyn WAHLIG Szostek 1966 Carol GOSE DeVine Roseanne MALLNER Mary Ellen MASTERSON McGary ’66 Thelma MILLIKEN Negley Elizabeth MORALES Gregg Ann O’SHEA Ivanna REED Ellin ROSASCO Learned Sara STALKUS Kathleen WALSH D’Arcy

1968 Ellen BEITZ Geraghty Christine BIONDI Maciejak Dr. Jeanne BRESCIANI Elena CASTELLANO Suzanne DRUCKER Robotham Jane MILAZZO Maria Cristina RODRIGUEZ O’Neill Deborah STANFORD Andrea SUSSMAN Pieper 1969 Veronica CASTELLANO Diane COGEN Kathleen DUNNE Carberry Patricia MASTERSON Palacios Mary PANAGY Eletheriou Joanna RANDAZZO Saccone+ Lorraine RICCOBONO Mahony Irene UHNAK Messina 1970 Ann BURKE Bunting Vivian CARDIA Bernadette CASTELLANO McSweeney Muriel FLYNN Gonzalez Victoria HERNANDEZ Maureen McNAMARA Laraia Virginia O’BRIEN, S.U Alice PRAJKA Dunatov Liana ROSASCO Smith 1971 Melody ANDRES Ann CONNOLLY Dale DRUCKER Prifti Alison TURNBULL Schoew 1972 Ann MASTERSON Ann MILANESE Chrystia SLYWOTZKY 1973 Rosemary DeNATALE Dineen Lillian GONZALEZ Sarro Helen K. MADDEN Vespe Maria MADISON Mary Ann PASZKIEWICZ Gordon Christine PIDHORODECKYJ Hillenbrand Anna PINTO Lorraine PUCHER-Petersen

Adithi Vimalanathan ’22

1994 Laura LIPANI Hines 1995 Lisa Yvette RANGEL DaSilva Marielle Wesley PICCONE Talya PINTO Santillan 1996 Francia ALLEYNE 1997 Christina FALZON

1974 Kathie GEEHERN Aloia Kathryn DOYLE Chapar Brigid SCOTT Elizabeth WEAVER Higgins 1975 Paula ANDRYUK Judy EUSTACE Dunne Rita FERRONE Rosana GONZALEZ Agostini Eileen RYAN Gabrielle SOLLEDER Virginia TUREZYN 1976 Virginia DILLON Eileen DRUCKER Zwart Annemarie GANNON Hanlon Madeleine LYNCH Farragher Elizabeth McNAMARA Melcher Paula Alexis PERCODANI Chantal TROTTA Simpson 1977 Brigid FREY Moira GLEASON Kowal Norma MOGLIA Reidy Tara RYAN Christina TERMINELLE Harley 1978 Anne Rose ASCH Freyja HELMER-Sindemark Geralyn McBENNETT Randazzo 1979 Carol ROWBO 1980 Robin COLLYMORE 1981 Nicla ANTONINI Taddei Mary O’SHAUGHNESSY Alexandra RYNCZAK Teper Jane SIMPSON Dolan Anne Marie VAGRA Zanfardino

1982 Norma CARMONA Morgan Victoria HOFFMANN Marsh Adrianne HOPPER Comerford Anne Marie POCOCK Roth Diana PRIOLO O’Brien 1983 Judy PAN 1984 Carol De GEORGE Lilian MIGLIORINI Evans Jeanine RAMOS Monteiro 1985 Helena ALBUQUERQUE Fenyo Stephanie DURSO D’Alessandro Josephine Mary LAWLOR Jamieson Robin NEWMAN Ann Marie WALSH Woods 1988 Vilma Rita HALL Dorgan Parutta LEEYAWANICH

1998 Elzbieta CZERSKA Rojas Suzanne FENECH Pascocello 1999 Laisha WASHINGTON Duley 2000 Tania TORRES 2001 Crystal ALFANO Gallegos Lena COLON Rumfelt Lauren McNAMARA Johanna VESPE Aulisa 2002 Karina VARGAS 2007 Samantha ALCALA 2008 Erica ZISSEL Andrinopoulos 2013 Natalie Ann CORREA

1990 Bridgette BRENNAN Foley Marianne BURCHELL Anderson Monique SULLE Bowen

2014 Gabriela MOURA Mackenzie O’CONNOR Elizabeth O’MALLEY

1991 Alice ALVES Keefe Lisa DUNLEAVY Gately Jean McGRATH Brodeur Patricia ORMSBY Karen SMITH Donaldine TEMPLE, Esq. Catherine VADASZ Licitra

2015 Maura O’HALLORAN

1992 Angelina M. ARLIA Joan Maria SALUBAYBA Guerrero Cara VIILLANO Guerra Rachel WALDEN Cranston

2018 Rebecca RASLOWSKY Jaylin SANTOS 2020 Cayla K. AKOMAH Rebecca E. ZALETOFSKY 2021 Class of 2021

1993 Jean CODY McCall 39

Contributors CURRENT PARENTS Mr. & Mrs. John Altomare Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Aninos Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Anthony Mr. & Mrs. William Antioco Mr. & Mrs. Jason Aylesworth Mr. Oliver Will & Ms. Kimberly Beck Mr. & Mrs. Eric Berquist Mr. Michael Bettigole & Mrs. Katherine Bettigole Mr. Jay Boucher Mr. & Mrs. Edward Browne Ms. Cheryl Callan Mr. & Mrs. Alex Cabarcos Mr. Johnny Rosario & Mrs. Niurka Campusano Ms. Janet Canela Mr. Miguel Ballena & Ms. Jessica Carrion Mr. David Transom & Ms. Aisling Carroll Mr. & Mrs. David Chang Ms. Linda Cholodenko Mr. Paul Conley & Mrs. Alana Chuong Mr. & Mrs. Rob Clores Mr. & Mrs. Michale Cooper Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Corsico Mr. & Mrs. Martin Cottingham Mr. & Mrs. Bracken Carter Craft Mr. & Mrs. Sunil Damodar Mr. Keneth Davis & Mrs. Sandra Davis Mr. Jonathan Denham & Mrs. Barbara Denham Mr. Raphael De Niro & Ms. Hannah De Niro Mr. Konstadinos Stavrou & Mrs. Paraskevi Dilana Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Duggan Mr. & Mrs. John Eck Mr. & Mrs. Eric Eckholdt Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ernau Ms. Meredith Fales Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Fernandez Mr. & Mrs. Marlon Figueroa Ms. Emily Fleischer Mr. Marc Foley & Bridgette Brennan Foley ’90

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Mr. & Mrs. Emilio Garcia Mr. Daniel Putignano & Mrs. Lisa Giella Mr. James Greene & Mrs. Jeannie Giordano Mr. Thomas Roemischer & Ms. Julia Glazer Mr. & Mrs. Kyle Greenidge Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gregory Ms. Lucille Grullon Mr. Thomas Newman & Dr. Anne Hardart Mr. Don Harding & Mrs. Katharine Harding Mr. Hakeem Haughton & Dr. Michele Haughton Ms. Laura Heeger Mrs. Christopher Horrigan & Ms. Christa Horrigan Mr. Peter Baracskai & Mrs. Theresa Howard Mr. & Mrs. Keith Hrazanek Mr. & Mrs. John Huvane Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Incandela Mr. Brendon McNamara & Dr. Karen Jagatic Mr. William Keefe & Alice Alves Keefe ’91 Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Kenny Mr. & Mrs. Michael King Mr. & Mrs. Michael Kurtis Mr. & Mrs. Anthony La Malfa Mr. Richard Leahy & Ms. Kathleen Leahy Mr. Brian Sy and Ms. Kathy Lee Mr. Eugene Layos & Ms. Glezie Legaspi Mr. John Licitra & Mrs. Catherine Vadasz Licitra ’91 Mr. George Logar & Ms. Mercedes Logar Mr. & Mrs. Robert & Tania LoPinto Mr. & Mrs. Leonat Malshyti Mr. Christopher Flynn & Ms. Maureen Marren Mr. & Mrs. Cristobal Mayendia Mr. Brian McCabe & Ms. Mary McCabe Ms. Tirzah McCarthy Mr. Brian Neville & Ms. Maureen Melnick

Mr. & Mrs. Adam Mietus Mr. & Mrs. Jim Mirenda Mr. Warren Nelson & Ms. Christa Nelson Mr. Douglas O’Brien & Eileen Griffin O’Brien Mr. George Delaney & Ms. Louise O’Connor Ms. Emilia Orengo-Vera Mr. & Mrs. Juan Ortega Mr. & Mrs. Michael Overall Mr. & Mrs. Todd Parker Mr. & Mrs. David Piscitelli Jack & Sarah Raslowsky Ms. Adrienne & Alessandro Ratto Mr. Pete Rei Mr. Beraldo Reynoso & Ms. Evelyn Reynoso Mr. Huw Richards & Ms. Allison Richards Mr. Raymond Rivera & Ms. Gladys J. Rivera Mr. & Mrs. Richard Schaedle Ms. Mary Schmutter Mr. Scott Schoneman & Ms. Lana Schoneman Mr. John Semczuk & Mrs. Allis Semczuk Mr. & Mrs. Dimas Serrano Dr. & Mrs. Luis Silva Mr. James Long & Mrs. Beth Smith-Moncrief Mr. & Mrs. Andreas Stuhr Mr. Ron Gottschalk & Ms. Mary Thaman Mr. Richard Love & Mrs. Kyle Thomes Mr. Elmer Torres Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Tresca Mr. Casey Kaplan & Ms. Samantha Treacy-Kaplan Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Valente Mr. Mark Valenti & Ms. Ann Valenti Mr. & Mrs. Steven Verveniotis Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Walls Ms. Mary Wright

Contributors ALUMNAE PARENTS Mrs. Dolores Lawlor Mr. & Mrs. Robert McGoldrick Ms. Arlene Miller Mr. & Mrs. Mark Mongelluzzo Mr. Michael Murray & Ms. Christine Murray Mr. Michael Nicholson & Ms. Carolyn Nicholson Mr. & Mrs. John Noonan Mr. George Delaney & Ms. Louise O’Connor Ms. Catherine M. O’Hara Ms. Rosemary Paparo Mr. & Mrs. Todd Parker Mr. Joseph Licciardi & Ms. Catherine Pino Jack & Sarah Raslowsky Mr. Lloyd Cornelius & Mrs. Stacey Ryan-Cornelius Mr. William Schwebel & Ms. Lori Schwebel Mr. & Mrs. Michael J. Seymour Mr. & Mrs. Gino Soave Mr. & Mrs. Adam Szpala Mr. Joseph Vadasz Mr. & Mrs. Paul Whelan The Honorable Milton Williams & Ms. Rose Williams Mr. Gerard Woods & Ann Marie Walsh Woods ’85

Alexandra Held-Villasenor ’21

Mr. Jeffrey Angelo & Ms. Eileen C. Angelo Mr. Essa Bateh & Ms. Janice Bateh Mrs. Ann E. Basso Ms. Joan Clark Mr. & Mrs. Vincent Cody Mr. & Mrs. Jose Cruz Mr. & Mrs. James Cuddihy Mr. J. Finian Kellaghan & Ms. Gina DeFina Mr. & Mrs. John F. Duffy Mr. Christopher Dunleavy & Ms. Elizabeth Dunleavy Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Dunne Mr. Mark Echavez Ms. Laureen Fredella Mr. & Mrs. John Galperin Mr. Patrick Gately & Ms. Lisa Dunleavy Gately ’91 Mr. Gene Gemelli & Ms. Gina Cavazzini Gemelli Mr. & Mrs. Kyle Greenidge Mr. William Haddad & Ms. Deirdre Dunn Haddad Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Hanks Mr. Dennis J. Hickey & Ms. Ann Hickey Mr. George Janis & Ms. Beth Ann Janis Ms. Anne V. Kane Dr. Frank Lacqua & Ms. Eva Lacqua

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Contributors FRIENDS

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Ms. Margaret Hughes Ms. Alison Johnston Mr. & Mrs. John Joven Mr. Golfo Karageorgos Ms. Tanya Kim Snow Mr. & Mrs. Edward Knapp Mr. Scott Kumbalek Lacor Mechanical Systems, Inc. Mr. Michael Landry & Mrs. Elizabeth Landry Ms. Julia Pilcer Lichtenstein Mr. Alaric Lejano Ms. Ann Lopez Dr. Jonathan Lucas Ph.D. Ms. Li Reilly-Madlin Mrs. Evelyn Schwarz Mao Mr. & Mrs. Christopher M. McCarthy Ms. Melissa U. Meserve Dr. Kendall Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. Christopher G. Moran Mr. Christopher Morris Mr. Richard Mulcahy & Ms. Sheila Mulcahy Mr. & Mrs. Terence A. Mullervy Mr. Richard A. Norton Mr. Joseph Noto & Mrs. Maureen Noto Ms. Maureen Nugent Mr. & Mrs. Daniel O’Brien Ms. Mary Ellen O’Brien Mr. Thomas O’Brien Mr. Vincent O’Brien Mr. John O’Donnell Ms. Valerie O’Keeffe Ms. Janelle O’Neill

Dr. Inno J. Onorato & Dr. Rukhsana Sadiqali Onorato Mr. Miguel Osio Ms. Marion Paolucci Ms. Gloria Picariello Dr. Grace C. Pilcer Mr. Shlomo & Mrs. Gabriella Rakib Mr. & Mrs. George Reber Ms. Vanessa Rhinesmith Mr. & Mrs. Joseph P. Riccardo Ms. Patricia B. Richards Mrs. Patricia Richlin Mr. & Mrs. Michael Robinson Ms. Carol Roche Mr. Brian Michael Rohan Mr. Robert F. Rose & Mrs. Mary A. Rose Mr. Robert Rose Ms. Elizabeth Roth Ms. Phyllis Sollecito Mr. Ray Sozzi Mr. & Mrs. John Spollen St. Joseph’s School-Yorkville Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Stordeur Dr. David Stuhr Ms. Kate Thomes Mr. Anthony Torres Dr. Phyllis Trible Ms. Veracelle Vega-Hansen Mr. & Mrs. Paul M. Waldo Ms. Nicole Wakabayashi Mr. Andrew Watt Mr. Steve Womer Xavier Jesuit Community Mr. Richard S. Zimmerman

Faith Lam ’23

Anonymous Ms. D’arcy Achziger Mr. Adam Alter & Mrs. Erika Alter Nurit Ambrose Ms. Susan Angelo Ms. Bridget Austin Ms. Erica Barrett Ms. Kenna Baudin Mr. Donald and Mrs. Kathleen Baum Rev. Vincent Biagi, S.J. Elizabeth and Jeremy Bixenman Ms. Mary Kate Blaine Ms. Julia Bradford Ms. Jaclyn Brilliant & Mr. Anthony Jenks Mr. Gregg Buckbinder Ms. Jackie Burke & Mr. Chris Schulze Ms. Joanne Burns Brooklyn Jesuit Prep Ms. Barbara Capeci Mr. & Mrs. Russell L. Carson Ms. Candi Carter Ms. Eleanor Cesaria Dr. Cascya Charlot Ms. Virginia Connor Mr. John Conroy & Katharine Wilson Conroy Mr. Anthony Costantini Ms. Aimee Cottingham Ms. Colleen Cullen Mr. & Mrs. Tony DeCarlo Sr. Mary Dolan, S.U. Mr. & Mrs. Raymond P. Dolan Mr. Vincent Dolan Rev. George Drance, S.J. Ms. Marie-Andree Eiting Rev. Thomas H. Feely, S.J. Ms. Jill Floyd Ms. Eileen Frawley Rev. Kenneth Gavin, S.J. Mr. Aaron Goldberg Ms. Kerry Greaney Mr. & Mrs. Mark Granger Mr. & Mrs. Robert P. Grote Mr. Michael Halloran & Ms. Catherine Halloran Mr. Daniel Dougherty & Ms. Hee-Sun Hong Mr. Allen Hershman & Mrs. Dolores Nordstrom Hershman Mr. James Hillman Ms. Iveta Holyland Mr. & Mrs. Jack Houlihan

Special Gifts

Ella Grace Will ’22

ALUMNAE SISTERS PROGRAM

President’s Circle Sponsor $15,440 or more Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ’65

Trustees’ Circle Sponsor $12,135–$15,439 Mary Burke Heyman ’55

79th Street Sponsor $6,000–$12,134 Norma Moglia Reidy ’77 Alexandra Rynczak Teper ’81

St. Mark’s Place Sponsor $2,500–$5,999 Antoinette LeQuire-Schott ’59 Bernadette Castellano McSweeney ’70 Arlene Deninger Prendergast ’60

13th Street Sponsor $1,000–$2,499 Patricia DiTolla ’62 Agnes McComiskey Quinn ’61 NOTRE DAME PARTNERS PROGRAM

President’s Circle Sponsor $15,440 or more Dr. Grace C. Pilcer Trustees’ Circle Sponsor $12,135–$15,439 Mr. & Mrs. Jack Houlihan

79th Street Sponsor $6,000–$12,134 Mr. & Mrs. Raymond P. Dolan Mr. Ray Sozzi

St. Mark’s Place Sponsor $2,500–$5,999 Dr. David Stuhr

13th Street Sponsor $1,000–$2,400 Mr. Richard Zimmerman

MEMORIAL GIFTS Notre Dame received gifts in memory of the following individuals during the 2020–2021school year: Leonardo Albuquerque Dr. & Mrs. David A. Austin Meg Blazinski Jeanne Kathleen Burchell ’47 Marie Castellano Ting Chuan Chow Joan Cogen Sondra Crouch Eileen Barrett Cunningham ’28 Genevieve Connolly Cunningham ’33 Edward J. and Marie J. Dolan Elderly victims of Covid-19 who died separated from family Francis Feeley, Jr. Nancy DuBois Feeney ’66 Margaret Ann Hart Haddad Ellen McNamara Ellen McNamara Helgesen ’60 Jenna Hernan ’10 John V. Huvane Sr. Catherine Keating, S.U. Matthew Killion Guy Lipani Helen Monahan Masterson

The McCloskey Sisters Rosemary McNamara Mother Genevieve Marie, S.U. Dorothea O’Farrell Moore ’28 Noreen Doyle Morris ’59 Catherine C. O’Brien Maureen S. O’Halloran Lilian Paszkiewicz Ellen Pearson Suzan Picarillo ’66 Mary & John Prajka Vicente P. Puig, Sr. Mr. Gregory Reda Mike Rendine Margaret Ann Ronayne ’68 Louis & Marian Rosasco Sr. Sarah Ryan, PBVM Joanna Randazzo Saccone ’69 Expedito & Ester Santillan Barbara Rowbo Seymour ’77 Margaret Mae Sollecito George and Helena Solleder Carol Thaman Christine Schueler Wagner ’69 Christopher Sturmfels Sr. Mary Walsh, S.U.

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64th Annual Chez Nous Benefit Donors We extend our utmost thanks to all of our loyal supporters for making our 2021 Chez Nous Benefit a huge success!

As a community, we raised nearly $450,000 toward scholarship and financial aid for our students. To learn how you can volunteer and support this year’s event please contact ND’s Benefit Coordinator, Ruthie Landry, at landryr@cheznous.org FUND THE SCHOLARSHIP Eleanor Fay Abraham ’10 Anabela Alves-Rivadeneira ’86 Dr. Marie Ambroise Thigpen ’91 Mr. & Mrs. Eric Berquist P’21 Beth and Raul Perez P’23 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Cseh P’23 Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Aninos P’23 Alliance Bernstein Mr. & Mrs. Jason Aylesworth P’21 Blake & Claudine Baldwin Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Balik P’18 Mr. Oliver Will & Ms. Kimberly Beck P’22 Mr. & Mrs. William Bell P’22 & P’24 Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Bixenman Elizabeth and Jeremy Bixenman Ms. Lisa A. Bretherick Ms. Jaclyn Brilliant & Mr. Anthony Jenks Mrs. Rose Marie Brilliant Mr. & Mrs. Edward Browne P’23 Mr. Anthony Burke Delia K. Cabe ’78 Mr. Johnny Rosario & Mrs. Niurka Campusano P’24 Ms. Jean Canavan Ms. Barbara Capeci Vivian Cardia ’70 Mr. David Transom & Ms. Aisling Carroll P’20 & P’23 Ms. Eleanor Cesaria P’13 The Chan Family Mr. David Chance & Ms. Margaret Chance P’08 Mr. & Mrs. Doran Chlupsa P’24 Ms. Lauren Cimera Ms. Joan Clark P’92 Roisin Clarke ’10 Mr. & Mrs. Rob Clores P’22 Mr. Paul Conley & Mrs. Alana Chuong P’24 Mr. Hiram Szeto & Ms. Monica Connell P’22 Ms. Virginia Connor Mr. & Mrs. Michale Cooper P’24 Mr. & Mrs. Corso P’25 Mr. & Mrs. Martin Cottingham P’23 Mr. & Mrs. Bracken Carter Craft P’23 Patricia Cullen ’73 Detra Davis P’25 Carol De George ’84 Mr. Jerry Dellova Mr. Jonathan Denham & Mrs. Barbara Denham P’23 44

Marie-Jeanne Desravines ’85 Rose Marie Cafuoco Dezenzo ’84 Ms. Myriame Dillon Patricia DiTolla ’62 Sr. Mary Dolan, S.U. Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Dolan Mr. Michael F. Doyle, FAIA Mr. & Mrs. Mark Driscoll P’21 Mr. William Haddad & Ms. Deirdre Dunn Haddad P’18 & P’20 Mr. & Ms. Liv Eck P’24 Mr. & Mrs. Eckholdt P’23 Ms. Rosemary Ellinwood Ms. Mary Jane Escobar-Collins P’22 Margaret Fergus DiGiovanna ’75 Mr. and Mrs. Wilfredo Fernandez Mr. & Mrs. Marlon Figueroa P’24 Jane Chen Firester ’88 Ms. Emily Fleischer ’23 Mr. Joseph Flynn & Dr. Patricia Flynn Ms. Sandra Gail Frayna Mr.& Mrs. Gregory Galligan Mr. Thomas Galligan & Dr. Ann C. Galligan Mr. & Mrs. Emilio Garcia P’22 Christy E. Gately ’20 Mr. Patrick Gately & Ms. Lisa Dunleavy Gately ’91 & P’20 Mr. & Mrs. Augie Aloia ’74 & P’09 Mr. Daniel Putignano & Mrs. Lisa Giella P’24 Mr. James Greene & Mrs. Jeannie Giordano P’24 Rosana Gonzalez Agostini ’75 Lillian Gonzalez Sarro ’73 Mr. & Mrs. Kyle Greenidge P’19 & P’23 Ms. Mary Margaret Griffin Mr. & Mrs. Robert P. Grote Cara Villano Guerra ’92 Ms. Catherine Halloran Ms. Jean Halloran-Monaco Mr. & Mrs. Scott Halstead P’19 Dr. and Mrs. Christopher Hampton Mr. Thomas Newman & Dr. Anne Hardart P’21 Mr. Don Harding & Mrs. Katharine Harding P’23 Mr. Daniel Dougherty & Ms. Hee-Sun Hong Freyja Helmer-Sindemark ’78 Xavier High School Mr. James Hillman

Victoria Hoffmann Marsh ’82 Mr. Christopher Horrigan & Ms. Christa Horrigan P’21 Mr. Peter Baracskai & Mrs. Theresa Howard P’23 Mr. & Mrs. Keith Hrazanek ’24 Ms. Judith Hughes Ms. Margaret Hughes Mr. & Mrs. George Hunt P’24 Ms. Helen Iler P’21 Ms. Rebecca Jacobsen Mr. Brendon McNamara & Dr. Karen Jagatic P’24 Ms. Jasmine James Ms. Elizabeth F. Jenks Ms. Madeline Jenks Sharon Grunwald Joy ’75 Ms. Anne V. Kane P’95 Mr. Brian Kappock & Ms. Filomena Kappock P’22 Mr. Mathew Kelleher Justine Killion ’91 Mr. & Mrs. Michael King P’23 Moira Gleason Kowal ’77 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Kurtis P’24 Mr. Thomas Lacorazza Mr. Brian Sy and Ms. Kathy Lee P’24 Mr. Eugene Layos & Ms. Glezie Legaspi P’24 Christine LeGoff Kauffman ’82 Mr. Brian Lenhardt & Mrs. Kathleen Galligan Ms. Renee Lerner Ms. Julia Pilcer Lichtenstein Mr. John Licitra & Mrs. Catherine Vadasz Licitra ’91 & P’24 Mr. Fitzroy Solomon & Mrs. Donna Lilly P’24 Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Littlefield Ms. Claire Littlefield Ms. Ann Lopez Helen King Madden Vespe ’73 Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Maniscalco P’23 Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Marfino P’24 Ms. Jacqueline Markoff Mr. Brian McCabe & Ms. Mary McCabe P’21 & P’25 Mr. Alberto Bermudez & Mrs. Tatiana Martinez P’24 Mr. & Mrs. Christopher M. McCarthy Ms. Tirzah McCarthy P’22

64th Annual Chez Nous Benefit Donors

S AV E T H E D AT E Mr. George Delaney & Ms. Louise O’Connor P’19 & P’22 Maria Cristina Rodriguez O’Neill ’68 Karen and Brian Osborne P’23 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Overall P’24 Mr. Scott Overall Krystal Palmers ’06 Mr. & Mrs. Francis Pascual Ms. Gloria Picariello Mr. Eugene Picariello Marielle Wesley Piccone ’95 Dr. Grace C. Pilcer Mr. Joseph Licciardi & Ms. Catherine Pino P’15 & P’19 Mr. Victor Santillan & Talya Pinto Santillan ’95 Mr. & Mrs. Ross Goldstein P’22 Lorraine Pucher-Petersen ’73 Mr. Nenad Radulovic & Ms. Paulette Radulovic P’21 Jack and Sarah Raslowsky P’18 & P’21 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph P. Riccardo GP’22

65th Annual Chez Nous Benefit Saturday, March 19, 2022 Mrs. Patricia Richlin Samirat Rivers ’98 Ms. Amy Robach P’24 Ms. Carol Roche Mr. Thomas Roemischer & Ms. Julia Glazer P’23 Mr. Robert F. Rose & Mrs. Mary A. Rose Mr. Robert Rose Ms. Elizabeth Roth Carol Rowbo ’79 Elizabeth Hofmann Salazer ’83 Mr. & Mrs. Peter Sandler P’21 & P’24 Ms. Carly Stawski Ms. Mary Schmutter P’24 Alison Turnbull Schoew ’71

Elizabeth Davenport

Rosemarie McGrath ’59 Jean McGrath Brodeur ’91 Ms. Kate McHugh Mr. & Mrs. Steve McKiernan P’25 Mr. David Villa & Mrs. Arlene Menendez-Villa P’23 Ms. Melissa U. Meserve Irene Uhnak Messina ’69 Mrs. Taylor Minervini Mr. & Mrs. Jim Mirenda P’23 Mr. Guy Montante Ms. Barbara Muller Mr. Brian Neville & Ms. Maureen Melnick P’21 Mr. & Mrs. Sonny Nguyen P’23 Mr. Michael Nicholson & Ms. Carolyn Nicholson P’18 Mr. Douglas O’Brien & Mrs. Eileen Griffin P’22 & P’24 Mr. Vincent O’Brien Dr. Virginia O’Brien S.U. ’70 Ms. Catherine M. O’Hara P’11

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64th Annual Chez Nous Benefit Donors Mr. & Mrs. Dimas Serrano P’23 Mr. & Mrs. Frank Sestak P’22 & P’24 Mr. Neil Sherman Ellen Corley Shull ’67 Gabrielle Silva ’14 Chrystia Slywotzky ’72 Mr. & Mrs. Lee Smith ’24 Mr. James Long & Mrs. Beth Smith-Moncrief ’24 Mr. Benjamin Smithee Mr. Fitzroy Solomon & Mrs. Donna Lilly P’24 Melissa Fanelli Soto ’93 Mr. & Mrs. John Spollen

Mr. Chris Sprengle & Mrs. Lisa Farrell Sprengle P’24 Mr. Arthur Strehle Lorraine Prajka Sturmfels ’60 Ms. Maria Suguitan Mr. & Mrs. Ian Syversen P’24 Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ’65 Mrs. Cheryl Thomas ’95 Mr. Elmer Torres P’22 Talisa Torres ’06 Mr. Gerard Trapp Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Tresca P’24 Mr. & Mrs. Darrel Upson P’24 Mr. Mark Valenti & Ms. Ann Valenti P’22 Karina Vargas ’02

Mr. Scott Vasey & Ms. Colleen Vasey P’21 & P’23 Dr. Valerie Venterina P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Steven Verveniotis ’24 Johanna Vespe Aulisa ’01 Ms. Nicole Wakabayashi Ann Marie Walsh Woods ’85 & P’14 & P’17 Mr. & Mrs. Troy Washington ’24 Mr. Edward Weilage & Mrs. Mary Ellen Brannigan Weilage P’24 Mr. Daniel Weisz & Ms. Kimberly Weisz P’21 Mr. & Mrs. Tim Wilks P’24 Milagros Williams ’72 Ms. Mary Wright P’24 Mr. Paul Yi

Swann Kaplan ’21

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Sissel Nyarko ’22

Special Gifts MATCHING GIFTS 2020–2021 AIG American Express Foundation American Tower Bank of America Matching Gifts Black Rock BNY Mellon Community Partnership Burns & McDonnell Foundation Matching Gifts Fund Chubb Charitable Foundation Coca Cola Credit Suisse Estee Lauder Companies Good Works Equifax Hearst Foundation IQVIA JP Morgan Chase Foundation Lexis Nexis

Lord, Abbot & Co. Mastercard Impact Merck Partnership for Giving Moody’s Corporation MUFG Mutual of America Foundation Network For Good New York Life Foundation Odyssey Reinsurance Company One Main Pitney Bowes SS&C Technologies TD Bank Affinity Program TIAA Travelers UBS Verizon Foundation New York Wells Fargo Community

Chez Nous Angels The following individuals have notified Notre Dame that they have included the school in their estate planning: Margaret M. Ahern + Jeanne K. Burchell ’47 + Thomas P. Coffey + Patricia Cullen ’73 Genevieve Connolly Cunningham ’33+ Mary Frances Sheridan Delaney ’56 Suzanne Falcone ’70 Nathalie Frank ’35+ Jane Anne Gavaghan, Marygrove ’46+ Robert & Penny Grote Michael & Catherine Halloran Sheila Lewis Houde ’54+ Patricia Norris Klett ’58+ Antoinette LeQuire-Schott ’59 Barbara Heidi Loftus ’47+ John R. Joven & Susan L. Malley+ Patrick O’Malley+ Mary Pat Hanigan Peterson ’40+ Mr. & Mrs. Jack Raslowsky Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ’65 Diana Trebbi ’46 Ligia Trujillo Yousri ’41+

Have you included Notre Dame in your estate plan? If so, please contact Elizabeth Bixenman at (212) 620-5755 x 317 or bixenmane@cheznous.org

FOUNDATIONS 2020–2021 Anonymous Amazon Smile Foundation Anna E. Gallagher Charitable Trust Brooklyn Benevolent Society The Carson Family Charitable Trust Columbus Citizens Foundation Cornelia Connelly Center for Education Harris Mathews Charitable Foundation, Inc.

The Hyde and Watson Foundation ICSF-Be a Student’s Friend Program Inner City Scholarship Fund McCallum Family Foundation The Michael Gordon Foundation Sarita Kenedy East Foundation Sisters of St. Ursula

† deceased 47

Gifts-in-Kind Amarilis Ferreira P’23 Emily Plunkett Fleischer P’23 Bridgette Foley ’90 & P’21 Emilio & Silangan Garcia P’24 & P’22 Jeannie Giordano P’24 Julia Glazer P’23 Deirdre Dunn Haddad P’20 & P’18 Caroline Halstead P’19 Christa Horrigan P’21 Carla Hunt P’24 Filomena Kappock P’22 Ms. Justine Killion ’91 Mr. Matthew Lackman P’16 Helen Lennon P’24 Mr. Joseph Licciardi P’15 & P’19 Catherine Vadasz Licitra ’91 & P’24 Annie Marino P’23 Donna & Nick Marfino P’24 Michele McCue P’21 Eileen Griffin O’Brien P’24 & P’22 Louise O’Connor P’22 & P’19 Karen & Brian Osborne P’23 Ms. Catherine Pino P’15 & P’19

Ms. Talya Pinto Santillan ’95 Jodie Price-Soave P’20 Paulette Radulovic P’21 & P’24 Allison & Huw Richards P’22 Laura Samuelsen P’24 Lori Schwebel P’20 Mary Schmutter P’24 Kinnari Olarte Singh P’23 Felicia Sestak P’24 & P’22 Diana Shieh P’23 Andrea Singh P’18 Nisha Smith P’22 Holly Johnson Stuhr P’22 Brian Sy & Kathy Lee P’24 Barbara Syversen P’24 Rosa Tavarez P’23 Kyle Thomes P’24 Ann Valenti P’22 Holly Washington P’24 Elise Wilks P’24 Tami Yaegashi P’24

Lillian Ji ’23

Katherine Allison P’24 Randi Altomare P’23 Ms. Donna Balardi Mr. Michael Barbieri Mr. Richard Battaglino P’91 & P’95 Amy Bell P’24 & P’22 Rev. Kenneth Boller, SJ. Tricia Burke P’24 Allyn Bruder P’23 Sr. Patricia Bruck, S.U. Eleanor Cesaria GP’13 Lori Hanchin Chang & David Chang P’22 Mr. Martin Cottingham P’23 Jennifer Cunningham P’23 Joanne Andreassi Cseh P’23 Caroline Damodar-Desloire P’24 & P’22 Sandra Davis P’24 Irene & Mark Driscoll P’21 Mr. Brian Dempsey Sr. Mary Dolan, S.U. Ms. Virginia Dolan Deirdre Dunne-Sciolto P’22 & P’18 MJ Escobar-Collins P’22

Great thanks to our many generous supporters Results reported on a cash basis.

The Notre Dame Annual Report is an opportunity to recognize those who have made a significant difference in the lives of our students through their generous contribution of time, talents, and treasure. If your name was omitted or improperly listed, please accept our apologies. If you have detected an error, please notify Elizabeth Bixenman, Director of Development and Alumnae Relations, at bixenmane@cheznous.org so we may correct our records.

With love and gratitude to all who are mentioned herein, including alumnae, parents, alumnae parents, grandparents, friends and current students.

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Ways to Give The generosity of the alumnae, parents, alumnae parents, grandparents and friends of Notre Dame makes a tremendous difference in the lives of each student Chez Nous. Your gift to the Notre Dame Annual Fund and support of the Chez Nous Benefit helps to bridge the gap between the tuition and the significantly higher cost of educating each student. Each gift, regardless of size, directly supports our students through tuition assistance, scholarships and access to the programs and opportunities that enhance their experience. Thank you for your generosity!

To Make a Gift By Mail

Planned Giving/Bequests

All donations to the Annual Fund are most welcome.

Please mail your check or money order made payable to Notre Dame School.

Chez Nous Angels are a group of visionary donors who have made gifts through bequests and have thus assured the continuation of the mission of Notre Dame. If you have named Notre Dame School as a beneficiary in your estate plan, please contact Elizabeth Bixenman at (212) 620-5575 ex. 317.

Development Office Notre Dame School 327 West 13th Street New York, NY 10014

Bank Partnership To participate in TD Bank, N.A.’s Affinity Program contact any TD Branch with the program code AF 109

Giving On-line To make a donation on-line, visit www.cheznous.org/giving/give-now

United Way Contributions

Matching Gift Many companies match donations made by their employees which allows you to increase the impact of your gift. Ask your HR department about their matching gift program. Notre Dame’s FEIN Number is 13-1782481.

To Make a Gift of Stock Please call Ms. Elizabeth Bixenman for instructions at 212.620.5575 ext. 317.

Zelle Zelle works by moving money directly from one bank account to another. Send your gift payment using the email “obrienv@cheznous.org”, which is tied directly to the schools operating account through Zelle.

IRA Distribution

Did you know that if you make a United Way contribution through your workplace your gift can be restricted to Notre Dame? The Development Office will gladly complete any necessary forms.

Our New York City agency code is 042392.

Important Facts Legal Name Notre Dame School of Manhattan Contact

Elizabeth Bixenman

Telephone

(212) 620-5575 ext. 317

Email

bixenmane@cheznous.org

Tax Status

As a 501(c)(3) organization, all donations to Notre Dame are deductible for federal income, gift, and estate tax purposes to the fullest extent of the law.

Individuals who have reached the age of 70½ may donate up to $100,000 to charitable organizations directly from their Individual Retirement Account (IRA) without treating the distribution as taxable income.

Please contact your IRA administrator for more information.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 20202021 Ms. Ann Lopez Chairperson Mr. Daniel Dougherty Vice Chairperson Ms. Johanna Vespe Aulisa ’01 Rev. Vincent Biagi, S.J. Ms. Patricia Cullen, Esq. ’73 Sr. Mary Dolan, S.U.

Mr. Raymond Dolan Ms. Virginia Dolan Mr. Michael F. Doyle, FAIA Rev. George Drance, S.J. Rev. Kenneth Gavin, S.J. Det. Justine Killion ’91 Ms. Maria Teresa Mata Ms. Melissa Meserve

Dr. Virginia O’Brien, S.U. ’70 Dr. Grace Pilcer Ms. Sarah Raslowsky P ’18 & P’21 Ms. Elizabeth A. Roth Mr. John Spollen, Esq. Ms. Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ’65 Most Rev. Gerald Walsh, DD

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Class Notes 1952 Audrey MASI-Greene turned

eighty-seven and just had her first great-granddaughter, Marissa.

taken at Bryce Canyon, her husband Dennis’s favorite park. Mary Susan finds Canyonlands to also be stunning. She hopes to get back to Ireland for a good visit.

1966

1962

1960 Priscilla RAMA Sprieser has been keeping busy by still working in her husband’s chiropractic office. The couple’s adult transgender granddaughter has been staying with them as she is working remotely. Patricia advises, “Never stop learning new stuff in this adventure called life!”

Janet SWIFT Balbach writes that she and her family moved from Morristown, NJ to Raleigh, NC to be close to daughter, Lauren, and her family. The Balbachs look forward to finding a place to call “home” and to being reunited with their own belongings which are now in storage. Janet notes that purging and moving at any age is traumatic but at their age, the process was exhausting and bittersweet. She is happy to have finally arrived and be able to look forward to life’s next chapter.

1961

Mary Susan KING Delahunty and her husband managed to travel during the pandemic and had some fun in the beautiful National Parks of Utah in October 2020. She notes that her ND cap got a lot of use. The photo was 50

Stephanie PINTO is getting ready to travel again after the pandemic and planning to spend six weeks in Spain and then on to Turkey for a shorter visit. She reports that all is well but that she is mourning the loss of Joanna RANDAZZO Saccone ’69 who died suddenly this past summer. Stephanie had been with her and a few other people in a restaurant on a Friday afternoon. When Joanna left the group early to catch a train to Montauk, little did they know it would be their last time together. Though Joanna was younger than Stephanie, she was a dear friend for over forty years.

1963 Alina GREEN Pinelli says hello from Miami Lakes and attests that life after Notre Dame has been very exciting!

Alina has been married twice, had two girls, who between them gave her seven grandchildren.

The firstborn they sadly lost to Acute Mylogenous Leukemia. (Tiffany RIP 1996-2012). Alina traveled to the Czech Republic in 1993 and her life dream came true in 2007, when she finally got to India in 2007. Her professional life consisted of ten years in a Law Office as a Personal Injury/Wrongful Death Trial paralegal. She also served as an Academic Advisor to the Honors population of a Community College.

She is a member of Phi Theta Kappa.

At age 44, Alina won the Ada Comstock Smith Scholarship to Smith College.

She has been retired since 2003 and can be found on Facebook.

Carol GOSE DeVine sends warm regards

to everyone Chez Nous. She finds it hard to believe that it has been fifty-five years since she graduated from Notre Dame and even harder to believe that her husband, Fra, and she celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary this past August!! She was fortunate enough to retire fourteen years ago, at least retire from her paid position. Carol has kept herself busy volunteering for a variety of organizations, mostly for the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. Fund raising is her major focus and once folks found out she wasn’t shy about asking for money, they all roped her in to help them out. Other than that, Carol spends most of her spring/summer/fall time in her garden, which has matured beautifully over the years. It is a real joy! Even more joyous is the time she and Fra get to spend with their first (and currently only) grandchild...Tobin. They had him and his Moms with them for the last two weeks in August. When friends told them that grandparenthood was the best thing ever, she thought they were exaggerating, but they’re not!! Carol hopes to have a couple more someday!

1968

Phillip and daughter-in-law Meredith.

Joanna will be remembered for her big personality, kindness, and generosity.

She will be missed by all.

1973

Irene UHNACK Messina happily an-

Mary CALLAGHAN has been working for the past 12 years as Academic Dean/AP Humanities and Latin teacher at Notre Dame High School in Fairfield, CT. For several years, she researched and formatted the school’s 4-year ND Distinguished Scholars Program, in which a cohort in each year engages in exclusively highest-level classes, independent study, and also some extra-curricular service and internship opportunities. One of the sophomorejunior offerings is a 2-week, international summer-study program at Oxford University, UK. The students join existing Oxford tutorials (5 students maximum!), research and defend their theses, debate publicly, go on many field trips (Stonehenge pictured here) and experience life as a bona fide Oxbridge student. Mary accompanies the group to Oxford; the students are then in Oxford’s care, along with all the other international students, until she returns and tries to get them on the plane for home (NOT an easy task!).

Right now, school staff are more than busy, preparing for next summer’s sojourn, having had to take a hiatus last year due to COVID. For most students who have never been outside Bridgeport or Connecticut, this has been nothing less than life-changing.

Anne and Ignatius: “The world is my home” Yes, indeed!

1969 Diane COGEN mourns the loss of Joanna RANDAZZO Saccone ’69 who

died peacefully in her sleep on July 24, 2021. Joanna is survived by her son

nounces the birth of Grandchild number ten: Avery Rose Messina, born August 22, 2021. Avery has brought so much joy to Irene’s family. She is a bright light that shines on us all.

1972 Ann MILANESE reports she is not

quite retiring but downshifting a bit.

She transitioned out of her division leadership role at work last year. Ann is still focused on clinical work with kids with developmental and learning challenges. She lives with her husband, two dogs, two horses, and a cat in central Connecticut. She works in Developmental Pediatrics at Connecticut Children’s in Hartford. Her son Christian is all grown up and recently married to a beautiful young woman.

Ann and her husband spend as much time as possible in the gorgeous forest riding their horses on a trail system near their home. She counts her time at ND as one of the many blessings in her life, and she wishes you all the best!

Rosemary DENATALE Dineen sent in

this photo of Anna PINTO, MaryAnn PASZKIEWICZ Gordon and Rosemary DENATALE Dineen (all ND ’73) in Camp Ketcha, South Portland, Maine, at the wedding celebration of MaryAnn’s daughter Julia and her husband, Chris.

It was a great reunion.

1975 Jo Ann JOYA Lodico writes in to report

no marriage, no divorce, no grandbabies, no travel due to COVID. Just plain old fashioned retirement, relaxation, and stress-free living. However, she is looking forward to seeing the world once again!

1976 Arlene PALERNO Hofler recaps an inter-

esting year. As soon as she and her husband could safely travel, they drove from their home in Perkiomenville, PA to Memphis, TN to visit their daughter and son-in-law, who moved there in February for a job offer. Their son-in-law is a paramedic and now works for the City of Memphis. The Hoflers stayed for two weeks and rode in a Riverboat for a tour on the Mississippi River. They also drove past Graceland and ate lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe. On the alumnae front, she and classmates had a few Zoom calls to celebrate their forty-fifth reunion. They have a group chat on Facebook. Arlene would love to hear from other graduates; just email her at arlenehofler@hotmail or contact her on FB. Stay safe everyone.

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Class Notes 1978

1984

Ann MATTHEWS King accepted a new

job as the clinical laboratory scientist in microbiology at the Regional Lab of Salem Health Hospital. Woo hoo, Ann!

uation gown to match hers, lol. Andrea adds that the first time she saw doctoral regalia was at her high school gradua-

1979

Marcia ZORILLA Calvetti works at Stanford School of Medicine as Director of Positive Youth Development and Public Health Specialist. She’s involved in school-based tobacco and cannabis prevention education and research and is the staff member for the Youth Action Board (YAB) made up of youth ages 13 to 24. You can check the YAB out on their Instagram: @Stanfordreachyab.

Pictured are Marcia and her family visiting Maui right before the pandemic. From left to right: son Nicolas, Marcia, husband Dean, and daughters Sierra and Micaela.

1981 Mary O’SHAUGHNESSY reports that in

April 2021 she became Director, Information Technology Services at DOROT, a nonprofit working to address the social needs of isolated seniors.

She loves it, and once she got settled she visited Mary ZINGONE Vinci ’81 at her family store, Zingone Brothers, a few blocks from her office. Mary married her partner legally on May 15th and in a church service on September 9th. They are happy homeowners in the North Bronx.

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Lilian MIGLIORINI Evans is happy to report that after 31 years she has retired from her career in Sales Management at UPS. The first order of business was a month-long extended vacation to visit family and friends in Italy. She was also fortunate to meet up with her Chez Nous sister in Italy, Christina SOLARINOLeddy. Next step upon returning home, she started working as a consultant in the supply chain and logistics industry and is on the advisory council for GreatSchools.org. Pictures are from her vacation with her husband and son.

1988 Shirley Susana HERDOIZA Alban is

pleased to announce that effective July 1, 2021, she was promoted to Associate Director of Finance, Administration and Operations at Mount Sinai Health System.

2002 Andrea VELEZ Guerro graduated from

The Sage Colleges with her Ed.D in Educational Leadership May 2020. Her dissertation is titled Leadership, Collaboration and Teacher Retention in High Poverty Schools: A Case Study of Three Elementary Schools. Andrea is beginning her seventh year as an Assistant Principal at P.S. 42 in the Bronx, and she and her husband welcomed their first child on July 5th, 2020. It has been an eventful 2020 for my Andrea and her family! She shared these two photos from her graduation this past May, noting, yes, she sewed her son a mini grad-

tion from Notre Dame. Dr. Russell wore it, and she knew at that moment she needed to get her doctorate.

Dr. Russell has always been inspirational to Andrea.

2005 Ivette TORRES can’t believe she started

at ND twenty years ago in 2001. She remembers 9/11 and walking from St. Mark’s Place all the way home. She has many pleasant memories of her high school experience. Ivette recently obtained employment at the nonprofit YearUp as an Internship Services Manager. YearUp serves young adults from 18-26, giving them an opportunity to learn either a finance track or IT track career. YearUp also provides professional/business communication skills to prepare the participants for their internship phase, in which they are placed in fortune 500 companies for six months.

The idea is hopefully they get hired but if not, they obtained experience and skills that will allow them to network to then move onto a career on that path.

Ivette is a 2009 alum from this program.

2012 Nicole Elizabeth RODRIGUEZ graduated

with her masters in social work in May 2021 and was offered a full time School Social Work position that began this past September.

2015

2020

What’s New?

Magdalena Laura DUNMAR got en-

gaged to Micky Willis on the Fourth of July just before moving to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where her fiancé is currently stationed as a 2nd Lieutenant with the US Army and where she has started law school at Oklahoma City University School of Law. 2016 Samantha MOURA is coming up on

one year working at Atlantic Records (Warner Music Group) as a Digital Accounts Coordinator in December!

2017

Lyra ROSS graduated from Marquette University in May 2021 and moved to Nashville over the summer (her dream since she was 14 years old!). She works for 2911 Media, a PR firm in the music industry. Some of their clients include legends like Don McLean, The Oak Ridge Boys, Lee Greenwood, and Charley Pride, as well as artists on the rise, such as CMT’s next Woman of Country girl group, Chapel Hart. As an Associate Publicist, Lyra writes press releases, schedules interviews, and attends events.

Keep your classmates updated by sending us your latest news!

Erin PENDER spent the past summer

working with New York State Assembly member Marcela Mitaynes of Assembly District 5. The position came through NYC SYEP, and Erin worked in the office helping with applications for different forms of state aid, making flyers and outreach calls for events, and designing a children’s activity book. She also went door-knocking in a few areas to spread information about the office and the services they provide. Overall, it was a great experience in local government, and Erin would encourage ND students to apply for NYC SYEP and explore careers while getting paid!

Photos are encouraged!

Please send all updates and photos to our Communications Coordinator, Jaclyn Brilliant, at brilliantj@cheznous.org Regarding photos, remember to send the highest quality image available and identify all individuals in each photo.

V O LU N T E E R O P P O R T U N I T Y !

Graduating from college in June?

Not quite sure what to do next?

Perhaps you are looking for a volunteer experience where you can really make a difference? Even if college is a distant memory, this might be your next great chapter in life! Intrigued? Read on.

Notre Dame Alumnae have been invited by the Sisters of Loretto to volunteer in one of their works with migrants and poor women on the southern border or in the Western US. For more information, contact Sr. Mary Dolan, SU at

dolanm@cheznous.org “I know the plans I have for you, plans for peace.” Jeremiah 29: 11

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In Memoriam I am the resurrection and the life; those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.

John 11: 25-26 We extend our deepest sympathy to the graduates, Sisters of St. Ursula, families and friends of Chez Nous who have experienced a recent loss. In particular, the individuals listed below will be greatly missed by the Notre Dame School community.

Janet Hagadorn Joan Cunning Joseph Vitale P’23 John Barbieri Mary Catherine Sheldrick Boyle ’64 Cathy Marguccio Bonner ’77 Marie Castellano James Halloran Bedi Muniz Boodhoo Vincent Lacorazza William Antonio Restrepo Joan Jackson William Miller

Beloved and famed alumna Patricia Sheehy Kaufman, ’49 passed away on August 22, 2020. She performed as a radio, dance, and theater star, known under her stage name, Patsy O’Shea and appeared in 10 Broadway productions and in hundreds of episodes of nationallybroadcast radio dramas and TV soap operas. Miss O’Shea also starred in dozens of broadcasts produced by the Office of War Information during World War II. Pat served on the Executive Board of the Federation of Television and Radio Arts and the Executive Board of the Catholic Actors Guild. She went on to work in advertising and as an ESL teacher. Pat is survived by her husband Garrett Kaufman and their daughter, Susanna.

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Kathryn Cossu ’84 Sr. Mary Rose Murray, S.U. Joanna Randazzo Saccone ’69 Katy Andermanis ’85 Edwina Morgan Conrad ’55 Michael Shagen Rosemary Scarborough P’22 Patricia O’Shea Kaufman ’49 Mohamed Said Zohny John King Sheila Husk ’25 Gerald O’Sullivan Edith Dalton Marinucci ’56

The Notre Dame community lost a beloved member on August 10, 2021.

Sr. Mary Rose Murray, S.U. taught Religious Studies and served as librarian at Notre Dame School. The aunt of Rosemarie Sage Sullivan ’61 and longstanding Notre Dame Partner, Mr. Jack Houlihan, Sr. Mary Rose entered the Sisters of St. Ursula in 1952. She taught at the Academy of St. Ursula in Kingston, New York before beginning her tenure at Notre Dame. Later, she became a teacher and principal of Coleman Catholic High School. In addition to her religious community, Sr. Mary Rose is survived by a large, loving extended family and the many friends she made everywhere she served.

On October 29, 2021, loyal and devoted alumna Edith Dalton Marinucci ’56 entered into eternal life. Our entire school community mourns the loss of Edith along with her family.

After graduating from Notre Dame, Edith earned a B.A. in English from Marymount Manhattan College and an M.A. from Fordham University. She went on to teach elementary and high school students and spent 28 years at the Academy of the Holy Cross in Maryland as an English Teacher and as the school’s Development Director.

Edith led her classmates in a fundraising effort to provide seed money for the Notre Dame Alumnae Chapel. She encouraged and advised former Development and Admissions Director, Bob Grote. Edith Dalton Marinucci certainly helped ND survive some of its toughest days, and still inspires all of us Chez Nous.

Save the Date!

65th ANNUAL

us Chez No Benefit Saturday, March 19, 2022 Noon – 4:00 p.m.

Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers

We look forward to hosting you in person for our 65th Annual Chez Nous Benefit! This is Notre Dame School’s only major fundraising event of the year and we have a financial need and goal to raise $500,000 in support of our Scholarship and Financial Aid programs through the strength and gifts of our community.

Cocktail hour followed by three course meal by Abigail Kirsch Full Open Bar throughout the Event Silent Auction and Live Auction Fund the Scholarship Paddle Raise

Tickets go on sale in January

WE ARE BACK!

Alumnae Reunion 2022 Celebrating 20 years on West 13th Street

Friday, May 13 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm Honoring the class years ending in “2” and “7.”

All are encouraged to attend.

Those who are celebrating an anniversary year will receive a gift.

Take a tour of Chez Nous at 327 West 13th Street Enjoy hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, wine, and beer!

If you have any questions and/or would like to help organize our 2022 Alumnae Reunion, please reach out to Elizabeth Bixenman, Director of Development and Alumnae Relations, at (212) 620-5575 ex. 317 or bixenmane@cheznous.org.

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Jackie Brilliant

Back Story

N

otre Dame really has been a family to me.

I remember clearly Sr. Mary and Sr. Virginia visiting me in Brooklyn just days after the birth of my first daughter, Madeline. It was a July heatwave in NYC, and my husband and I had just moved into our new apartment. Mary and Ginny delivered a Pack ‘n Play for Madeline that I would use in the office when I returned to work and gamely sipped refreshments off a cardboard box that was doubling as a coffee table. If that’s not family, what is?

That first summer that I started at ND, in 1990, I literally shared a desk with Bob Grote. Luckily, we hit it off immediately. The building on St. Mark’s Place was nondescript from the outside. In fact, I walked right by it on my way to my job interview, not recognizing it as a school building. There was no gym, no chapel, and the lunch room looked very much like a basement. But there was origami adorning the math classroom, the most beautiful and peaceful library I’d even seen in a high school, and a Tattoo and Cappuccino shop at the corner— it was perfect. Soon Bob and I were painting our new office space together, a former novelty shop called The House of Uncommons, whose name and signage we kept. Somehow, it seemed apt.

The English Department, then led by Mia Schilling, developed the most interesting and current reading lists. Everyone had a deep love of close reading and deep care for the craft of writing. I was thrilled to begin teaching a class after a few years settling into my work in development. Time flew. The school moved to the next hot spot neighborhood—the Meatpacking District, well before it became home to Versace, Google and Tesla. I had a second daughter, Josephine, and eventually, I had the honor of serving as English Department Chair. I’m delighted to still be a member of the ND English Department, now led by the inspiring Scott Vasey.

Beyond the personal and professional, I can’t help but view all the big events of these past three decades through the lens of ND: 9/11 happened right before we moved to the West Village, and my 1st Avenue subway stop to school became a security check point temporarily.

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Together with our students, we witnessed the televised inauguration of our nation’s first black president, Barack Obama. I remember gathering around the conference room table with Sr. Mary, Sr. Virginia, and Lydie Kane to listen to Hillary Clinton’s concession speech in 2016. Then COVID struck, and our world turned upside down. I was Principal by then and finding the path between safety for all and continuity for our students was a daily challenge. Nonetheless, we managed to deliver the best possible remote and then hybrid learning. On January 6th of 2020, I was actually hosting a Zoom Alumnae College Panel when my family in the next room started texting me the news. It was a tonic to be talking with some of the most inspirational young alumnae while our country was going through one of its darkest moments.

Over ten years as principal, there were certainly moments of stress and overwhelming responsibility, but more moments of joy and pride. Working sideby-side with Karina Vargas ’02, our new Principal, was an inspiration and a comfort. She was an A+ student in my English class all those years ago, and now she is an A+ administrator. My favorite moments as principal were when I walked the hallways and got to eavesdrop on all the exciting moments that were happening in the classrooms. I always tried to drop an email or mention in person how impressed I was by what I saw and heard outside of any formal observation. I’m sure I didn’t make time to share those positive impressions as much as I wanted to. Now, as Communications Coordinator, I’m delighted that my biggest job is to broadcast the great news about our school. There is no shortage of material Chez Nous, that’s for sure.

These days, I’ve come full circle. I’m back to sharing an office, this time with Jim Hillman, our tireless CFO. I dearly miss the newly retired Bob Grote, but I am enjoying working in the office right around the corner from Penny Grote. So, I’m still part of the family—rooting for ND, impressed by its success, and ever eager to spread the word.

“Over ten years as principal, there were certainly moments of stress and overwhelming responsibility, but more moments of joy and pride. ”

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Make Notre Dame School a philanthropic priority to ensure the future of Chez Nous!

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