The 68th Annual Chez Nous Benefit Journal by Notre Dame School

NOTRE DAME HOOP TEAM

Thank you for all of your support!

Shout out to the ND Varsity Basketball team for winning the City Championship title! Your hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship truly paid off.

Congratulations Notre Dame on the successful 68th Chez Nous Benefit!

From the McKiernan Family

Kaitlyn ‘25

The

Notre Dame School Board of Trustees is privileged to support and serve the students, teachers, and staff, Chez Nous. We proudly support Jaclyn Brilliant as Acting President and continue to hold Dr. Virginia O ’Brien, S.U. in our love and prayers, wishing her a swift return to health. Together, we are committed to providing a nurturing environment for all.

Rev. Vincent Biagi, S.J. (Chairperson)

Ms. Patricia Cullen, Esq. ‘73

Sr. Mary Dolan, S.U.

Ms. Raymond P. Dolan (Vice Chairperson)

Ms. Virginia M. Dolan

Mr. Daniel Dougherty

Mr. Michael F. Doyle, FAIA

Rev. George Drance, S.J.

Mr. Thomas Jacquot

Det. Justine Killion ‘91

Ms. Julia Pilcer Lichtenstein, Esq,

Ms. Maria-Teresa Mata

Dr. Grace C. Pilcer, Ph.D

Ms. Sarah Raslowsky P’18 & P’21

Ms. Talya Santillan ‘95

Rev. Kevin Spinale, S.J.

Mr. John Spollen, Esq.

Ms. Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ‘65

Ms. Nancy T. Vincent, Esq.

The Most Reverend Gerald T. Walsh

The administration, faculty, and staff of Notre Dame School congratulate the Class of 2025 for their academic excellence.

PARTIAL LIST OF COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES:

American University

Bates College

Binghamton University

Bucknell University

Catholic University

Clemson University

College of Charleston

College of the Holy Cross

Colgate University

Colorado College

CUNY Hunter

Drexel University

Elon University

Fairfield University

Fordham University

Lehigh University

Loyola Maryland

Loyola University Chicago

Marquette University

McGill University

Michigan State University

Pace University

Pennsylvania State University

Pepperdine University

Princeton University

Providence College

Rhodes College

Rollins College

Royal Holloway University of London

Rutgers University

Sacred Heart University

Santa Clara University

Salve Regina University

Skimore College

St. John’s University

Syracuse University

SUNY New Paltz

SUNY Cortland

Temple University

Tulane University

University College Dublin

University at Albany

University of Bristol

University at Buffalo

University of Chicago

University of California, San Diego

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Connecticut

University of Delaware

University of Glasgow

University of Massachusetts Amherst

University of Maryland

University of Michigan

University of Richmond

University of South Carolina

University of York

Villanova University

Xavier University

100% of our graduates are accepted to four-year colleges and universities.

Over 95% of graduates over the last ten years have been awarded academic scholarships.

As of March 20th, the Class of 2025 has received over $18 million in academic scholarships to four-year colleges and universities through Merit, Honors, and Presidential Scholarships, and many more.

SELECT LIST OF SCHOOLS FROM WHICH WE ARE EXPECTING TO HEAR

Amherst College

Banard College

Johns Hopkins University

UCLA

UC Berkley

Yale University

Vanderbilt University

PROGRAM

Chez Nous Benefit -------

Saturday, March 22rd from Noon until 4:00 p.m.

1:00 - 2:00pm

Introduction

Elizabeth Bixenman, Director of Development & Alumnae Relations

Grace

Sr. Rosemary McNamara, S.U.

Awards Ceremony

Jaclyn Brilliant

Chez Nous Angel Award

Helen King Madden Vespe ‘73 & Johanna Vespe Aulisa ‘01

Chez Nous Parent Awards

Edward and Ellen Browne P’23 & P’25

Allison Hemming P’25

2:00 - 4:00pm

Live Auction

Pat Tully

Student Speaches

Ixchel Held-Villasenor ‘25

Sofia Javier de Leon ‘25

Fund-the-Scholarship

Pat Tully

PATRICK TULLY

With nearly 20 years of live auction experience, Pat Tully is New York City’s leading independent benefit Auctioneer. Mr. Tully has raised over one billion dollars at over 1,500 nonprofit benefit events across The United States and around the world. Mr. Tully’s vast clientele includes St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The American Cancer Society, and The Make-A-Wish Foundation. Beyond his live auction experience, Mr. Tully is the Co-founder of The Kate Shea Foundation for Leukemia research and previously served as Vice President of Development for The Ireland Funds. Mr. Tully holds a B.A. degree in Communications from Marist College as well as a Certificate in Radio and Television Broadcasting from the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. In addition, he holds a Benefit Auction Specialist designation from the National Auctioneers Association and is a member of The Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Raise your paddle today and you will have an immediate impact on the future of our Chez Nous girls!

ACTING PRESIDENT

Jaclyn Brilliant

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT AND ALUMNAE RELATIONS

Elizabeth Bixenman

2025 CORE COMMITTEE

Allison Hemming P’25

Anna Stanin P’28

Chari Corpuz P’28

Catherine Pino P’15 & P’19

Jessica Estrella P’26

Helen Hur Paguia P’28

Jessa Schwartz P’27

Jessica Svensson P’28

Kendra D’Emilia P’28

Kim Rose P’27 & P’28

Lisa Leingang P’28

Mary Beth Vineyard P’27

Rebecca Seidenstein P’28

Richard Wesolowski P’26 & P’28

Susan Despins P‘28

Shawn Williams P’28

Steve McKiernan P’25

Tara Marlovits P’27

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR VOLUNTEERS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

PARTICIPATING FACULTY, STAFF, STUDENTS & FRIENDS

Alaric Lejano

Anne’s Leaders

Brian Dempsey

Claudine Baldwin

Colleen McGrath

German Garcia

Glenn Stordeur

Glee Club

Iris Rivera

Jacqueline Elias

Anthony Jenks

Jacqueline Aleandre

Karina Vargas

Maria Vulcano

National Honor Society

Noelle Tannen

Penny Grote

Rigo Chery

Ruthie Landry

Sarah McGowan

Sr. Mary Dolan, SU

Yazmine Mendoza

Ben Zevallos

ANNE DE XAINCTONGE AWARD RECIPIENTS

1991 - Lillian Leach Friedlander ‘26

1992 - Sr. Catherine Keating, S.U.

1993 - Sr. Elizabeth DiTolla, S.U. ‘59, Former Teacher and Principal

1994 - Sr. Mary Dolan, S.U., Former President, Former Principal

1995 - Sr. Regina Ahern, S.U. ‘37

1996 - Carol Gose DeVine ‘66

1997 - Jeanne Burchell ‘47

1998 - John R. Joven, Former Principal

1999 - Sheila Lewis Houde ‘54

2000 - Molly Sheils ‘60

2001 - Mary Maloney Murphy ‘52

2002 - Barbara Rowbo Seymour ‘77

2003 - Carolyn Wahlig Szostek ‘65

2004 - The Class of 1959

2005 - Irma Fiordalisi, M.D. ‘70

2006 - Sisters of St. Ursula

2007 - Florence Molinari Foti ‘77 — Lifetime Achievement Award

2011 - Agnes McComiskey Quinn ‘61

2012 - Patricia DiTolla ‘62

2013 - Nancy McNamara Haney ‘58, accepting in memory of the Stratemeyer Sisters

2014 - Antoinette LeQuire Schott ‘59

2015 - Arlene Deninger Prendergast ‘60

2016 - Edith Dalton Marinucci ‘56

2017 - Brigid Frey Dzierzanowski ‘77

2018 - Patricia Cullen ‘73

2019 - In Memory of Maureen T. Brolly P’85, P’91 & GP’17

2020 - Talya Pinto Santillan ‘95

2021 - Vivian Cardia ‘70

2022 - Mary Burke Heyman ‘55

2023 - The Honorable Dakota D Ramseur ‘88

2024 - Elizabeth Roth

CHEZ NOUS ANGEL RECIPIENTS

2016 - Mary Frances Sheridan Delaney ‘56

2017 - Virginia Turezyn ‘75

2018 - Jane Chen Firester ‘83

2019 - Sr. Patricia Bruck, SU

2020 - Richard Battaglino P’91 & P’95 and Thomas Lacorazza

2021 - Judy and Russ Carson

2022 - Julia Pilcer Lichtenstein, Esq.

2023 - Martin Cottingham P’23

2024 - Michael and Catherine Halloran

We are honored to present the Chez Nous Angel Award to Helen King Madden Vespe ‘73 & P’01 & Johanna King Vespe Aulisa ‘01

Chez Nous Angel Award

Helen King Madden Vespe ‘73 & P’01

Helen King Madden Vespe, Class of 1973, exemplifies the spirit of Notre Dame’s values through her love and loyalty to her family, professional and progressive achievements, charitable giving, and her ongoing support to the Notre Dame community. Helen’s relationships with her classmates and connection to Chez Nous span over 55 years and she continues to play an important role in making the Class of 1973 the most represented class in alumni giving.

Upon graduating from Notre Dame, she pursued studies at Harriman College and NYU in Early Childhood Education. In 1974, she married her husband of 51 years, Bill, and started a family. Helen’s focus was their children: William, Bridget, Johanna and Kevin. Helen was an active member of St. Joseph Parish and participated in fundraising, the PTA and other parish-sponsored activities. Helen was a decorated volunteer in Girl Scouts and was recognized by the Good Shepherd Council carrying forward the importance of developing the potential and self-worth of young girls.

She began her career in the fuel transportation industry in the mid-1980s. She quickly noticed the underrepresentation of women in this field. Her leadership and influence led to improvements in the workplace well before they were required and included establishing a non-smoking environment, sexual harassment training and diversity awareness.

In 2021, Helen was diagnosed with breast cancer and elected to take part in a long-term research study making advancements to finding a cure. After surgery and radiation, she focused on advocacy and donating to breast cancer research. Unfortunately, this is not the only health-related cause Helen supports. In 2006, her granddaughter, Caitlin, at seven months old, was diagnosed with MPS 1, a rare disease. Like her Nana, Caitlin’s resilience and determination have persisted during her journey consisting of over 23 surgeries, chemotherapy at 13 months and then a stem cell transplant. Her son William’s pursuit of progressive treatment and tireless research has enabled Caitlin to defy the odds of an incurable disease. Helen is a strong advocate and supporter of MPS Research. Caitlin, now 18, continues to bring Helen much joy with her beautiful spirit!

Today, Helen enjoys visits with her son and grandchildren in San Antonio. She enjoys spending time with her grandson Jack (16) who acknowledges his Nana as a Scrabble champ-much to his dismay! Her other children live locally and visit frequently. On weekends, she and her husband visit different cities and learn about different areas of the country.

The education, empowerment, faith and friendship she experienced at Notre Dame has allowed Helen to live the blessed life she has. Helen truly demonstrates the values and beliefs that Anne de Xainctonge and Chez Nous have long embraced.

Chez Nous Angel Award

Johanna King Vespe Aulisa ’01

Johanna King Vespe Aulisa, class of 2001, credits the influence of her family, faith and Notre Dame’s valuedriven education to her personal and professional achievements. Growing up in New York City, she developed an awareness of social inequities that can either foster opportunity and access or create barriers that limit potential. This early exposure lay the foundation for her commitment to service and was strengthened by her experience at Notre Dame. The culture of community represented by Chez Nous enriched her education and enabled the development of strong, lasting friendships. Collectively, this built up her sense of social responsibility, pursuing studies and a career in criminal justice under the emerging field of reentry.

In 2006, she was the first recipient of the Imette St. Guillen Memorial Scholarship based on her research, internship and work with incarcerated women as survivors of violence and trauma. This touched her personally. It remains with her today that her work is tied to the legacy of a young woman who was an advocate for social justice reform. In 2007 she was recognized by the State of New York for her “commitment and dedication to the women of Bayview Correctional facility” where she designed and facilitated transitional release workshops. She earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Deviant Behavior and Social Control ‘05 and Master’s degree in Criminal Justice ‘07, from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY.

Currently, Johanna serves as Senior Director of Program Services at the largest employment reentry provider in the country. She began her tenure in 2007, providing work readiness services to returning citizens under parole in New York City. In 2012 she moved into administrative management and operations where she played a significant part in the organization’s growth resulting in its current size of operations in 30 cities across 12 states. Since 2016, she held key positions in national leadership within program fidelity and compliance and social enterprise management. Johanna’s dedication to service extends beyond her professional endeavors. She was a member of the New York Junior League and Mt. Sinai’s SAVI program, providing advocacy to survivors of domestic or partner violence in New York City emergency departments.

Today she remains engaged with the Chez Nous community, most recently serving on the Board of Trustees (2016-2024). As a Board member, in some of the most challenging years impacting public health and social justice, the administration of Notre Dame worked tirelessly to ensure the well being of current and future students was a priority. This is one example of many that demonstrate Notre Dame’s unwavering commitment to educating young women with the highest standards and sustaining an environment for each to thrive.

We are honored to present the Chez Nous Parent Award to Ellen and Edward Browne P’25

Chez Nous Parent Award

Ned & Ellen Browne met while attending Manhattan College in Riverdale, New York. Ned was born and raised in Ridgefield, CT graduating with a B.A. in English with a minor in Finance. Ellen was born and raised in Marine Park Brooklyn with a B.S. in Finance and a minor in religious studies. Shortly after graduation, they accepted positions on Wall Street to begin their careers. Ellen in financial technology sales and Ned in operational support services.

They were married in November of 2002 at Good Shepherd Parish, Brooklyn followed by a legendary reception celebration at Gargiulo’s! Continuing their careers and raising a family together, Ned started his insurance and reinsurance business, Xchange Benefits LLC, with his partners in October 2010. In the summer 2015, Ellen retired from a successful institutional sales technology career to be at home with their girls and volunteer at their school and in the community. They are the very proud parents of Nora (‘23), Lydia (‘25), Elise (15) and Bridget (11).

Residing in Brooklyn and summering in Breezy Point, the Brownes remain actively involved in the community. Ellen has continued to teach CCD at Good Shepherd and is the Treasurer for both her parish sports and Irish dance academy parent associations while Ned has been an enthusiastic CYO girls basketball coach, is the current Secretary of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in the City of New York and serves on several professional and charitable boards. They are both members of the Knights and Ladies of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.

The Browne’s are humbled and honored to be receiving the parent award today. Ned and Ellen commented, “We are so profoundly grateful for the administration, teachers and staff that continue to make Notre Dame a special place for our girls to learn, flourish and grow. They arrive young wide-eyed girls and graduate very confident and capable young women ready to be a force for good in the world. Carry on Chez Nous!”

We are honored to present the Chez Nous Parent Award to Allison Hemming P’25

Chez Nous Parent Award

I was born in Puerto Rico, raised in the Finger Lakes, and started my Catholic school adventures at the University of Dayton—where I collected a Marketing degree and a handful of minors in Finance, Econ, and History (because why stop at one?). Wall Street came calling straight out of college, so I cut my teeth at Salomon Brothers before jumping to Morgan Stanley, where I got my first taste of this little thing called “the internet” (spoiler: it caught on). I took that early digital know-how and ran with it, helping magazines launch their websites back when print was still king and “going online” felt revolutionary.

Then came 2000, when I decided to start my own thing—The Hired Guns. What began as an idea has turned into 25+ years of matching brilliant talent with companies undergoing major digital and tech transformations. And because I apparently like to keep things interesting, I also launched the infamous Pink Slip Parties during the dot-com meltdown to help laid-off tech folks get back in the game, and wrote Work It! (Simon & Schuster), a book on job-hunting that’s been called the career equivalent of a double shot of espresso.

But let’s talk about the real MVP of my life—Bart Codd, my husband and partner in all things (including but not limited to: business, parenting, and navigating the chaos of everyday life). Starting a company with your significant other isn’t for the faint of heart, but the upside? The freedom to be present for our two incredible daughters—Marcella (currently working her creative magic at RISD) and Fiona (our fearless senior at Chez Nous).

When it was time to pick a school for them, we knew Catholic was the way to go for our family. Epiphany School was our launchpad. For high school, Fiona it was no place except for Notre Dame and we can’t wait to see where she heads next fall to college. We all feel so lucky that our family found a home here. Before Fiona started, I’d heard the whole “high schools don’t want parents involved” myth. Well, Notre Dame didn’t get that memo. From day one, Sister Virginia made it clear—jump in, get involved, make a difference. So, I did as did so many others! Team photographer for Cross Country? Check. Phone calls for the Benefit? Done. Scouring the city for set pieces and costumes for the school musical? Naturally.

But my absolute favorite gig? Pitching Notre Dame at Open House. I get to tell prospective families why this place is the real deal—outstanding academics, top-tier college placements, and, most importantly, a community that turns big-city life into something small, warm, and welcoming. It is the greatest job in the world.

So, if you’re a parent considering getting involved, here’s my advice: don’t overthink it. Just do it. Find something you truly connect with all while getting to spend a little extra time with your daughter. You’ll be glad you did.

In honor of the lasting friendships formed during our time Chez Nous, we offer our heartfelt gratitude to the Sisters of St. Ursula as we celebrate our 65th Anniversary!

Peace and All Good to our Chez Nous Sisters.

The Class of 1960

With immense pride and joy our family honors Helen King Madden Vespe ‘73 and Johanna King Vespe Aulisa ‘01

Recipients of the 2025 Anne de Xainctonge Award by Notre Dame School of Manhattan

We are so grateful to celebrate our loving and deserving Wife, Mom, Sister, Auntie, & Nana on this achievement!

Congratulations to you both, we love you!

Bill, William, Bridget, Kevin, Caitlin, Jack, Misty, Caetlin, Evan, Eli

The Everest Leadership Club at Notre Dame is an affiliate of the Everest Leadership Academy. The Club at Notre Dame focuses on developing the social character (the soft EQ, or emotional intelligence leadership skills) that prepares people to become great leaders.

The book entitled “The Leader in Each of Us” is an essential component of the teachings of the Academy. Register on the website www.everestla.org and you will be entitled to all the services offered by the Academy at no charge including an e-version of the book which you can read or download. You can also request a hard copy to be mailed to you.

Congratulations to the Entire Notre Dame Family

May the light of Mother Anne’s lamp guide your steps along the pathways of mercy and of justice throughout your lives.

Sisters of Saint Ursula

...just across the park!

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Providing New Yorkers and expats a taste of Britain for over 35 years, Myers of Keswick stocks a variety of homemade Pies, Sausages and imports a vast range of Britain’s favorite brands inc. Cadbury, McVities and Walkers. Using family recipes handed down over three generations, our experienced Butcher and Baker prepare 14 different savory British-style pies, five types of British-style sausages and British-style scones daily. We ship nationwide* and offer same day delivery within the 5 boroughs.

*Mail order via email, local delivery via website. New website now active!

Sponsor a Notre Dame Student

With a desire to bolster our spirit of community and build bridges of communication between our donors and the school’s current students, we invite alumnae and friends of Notre Dame School to sponsor a current student throughout their four years of high school. Based on your level of support, you will be matched with one or more students who are in need of financial assistance to access a Notre Dame education. Your financial gifts will offer an exceptional education to those lacking the resources to experience such an opportunity.

Opportunities for Sponsors*

Receive a formal profile on student(s) and their most recent report card(s)

Meet virtually or in-person with sponsored student(s)

Receive thank you notes and updates written by your student(s)

* Each donor decides their own level of involvement with their student(s)

You can make a difference. Become a sponsor today!

To learn more about becoming a Sponsor, we invite you to contact Benjamin Zevallos, Associate Director of Annual Giving at 212-620-5575 x348 or by email at zevallosb@cheznous.org.

2025 Notre Dame Summer Camp

Dates: June 30 - July 24, 2025

Monday to Thursday

Morning session only July 24th (all campers welcome).

Notre Dame’s summer camp for rising 7th, 8th, and 9th grade girls. In the morning, students may take three out of five exciting classes. In the afternoon, campers venture out to explore NYC.

Fees: Morning Session: $1,200 9am to 12pm

Afternoon Session: $1,200 12pm to 3pm

Full Day: $2,400 English Science Coding Art Math

Afternoon NYC Experience: Students embark on field trips to a variety of destinations: museums, fishing off the pier, movies, and the Central Park Zoo. Students will also engage in performance art and community service.

For more information and/or to register, email Kevin McDonald, NDSummerCamp@ChezNous org with the subject line “Summer Camp.”

Western Knows Pest.

Residential & Commercial Pest Control in New York City

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Congratulations to Kaitlyn Owens '25, Nevaeh Blake '25, and Michelle Riaz '27 for your exceptional academic achievements! We are incredibly proud of all that you have accomplished, and we wish Kaitlyn and Nevaeh all the best in college!

May Sister Virginia find strength, peace, and comfort as she focuses on her health. We send our thoughts and prayers, and trust she knows we are here to love and support her.

Jack & Judy Houlihan

G 20YEARS

ALUMNAE REUNION

Join your Chez Nous sisters for an evening of fun!

Friday, May 3, 2024

5:00 – 7:30 pm Notre Dame School, 327 West 13th Street

Toast the anniversary years ending in 4 & 9

Friday, May 9th, 2025 0 & 5

Take a tour of Chez Nous at 327 West 13th Street

Enjoy hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, wine, and beer!

QUESTIONS? If you have any questions please reach out to Elizabeth Bixenman at (212) 620-5575 ex. 317 or bixenmane@cheznous.org.

2025 Summer Fitness Camp July

28th to August 15th

Students’ athletic training outside of practice and competition is as equally important to their entire physical and personal growth. Notre Dame’s Summer Fitness Camp offers instruction in personal training and more such as strength/power, speed/agility, confidence, leadership and nutrition. Our fitness camp works to fully develop the body and mind. Registration is for 8th & 9th grade girls. Students in the morning session will attend four 35-minute classes from 9:00am to 11:45am. Students taking part in the advanced athletes class will extend their day until 2pm. Students may bring their own lunches to camp or be given permission to eat outside during the full-day program.

Sports Skills Training Beginner/ intermediate - 35 minutes - 2 Sessions each day

The focus of the class will be on developing technical skills that athletes can use to improve their participation in higher-level game play. Volleyball, soccer, basketball, and softball are the sports that the ND Fitness Camp will emphasize.

Sports Conditioning Training - 35 minutes - 1 Session each day

The focus of this class is on developing the athlete's speed, quickness, agility, power, and strength. Core strength and mental toughness training will be included.

Yoga/Dance - 35 minutes - 1 Session each day

This class focuses on incorporating yoga and mobility exercises, which have been proven to help with strengthening, flexibility, balance, and focus. The class is designed to enhance physiological and mental processes that lead to improved athletic performance. This course will also provide students with a general introduction to the principles of healthy eating that are essential for longterm physical and mental wellbeing.

Afternoon Session - Building the Intermediate Athlete - 2 hours

The objective of this class is for individuals to improve one athletic talent while working on more advanced drills and competitive game play. The class will be split into four teams, and they will compete in games of volleyball, soccer, basketball, and softball.

Registration coming soon

Weekly Fees - Camp Meets Monday - Thursday

$500.00 Morning Session - 9am to 11:45am

$750.00 Full Day Session - 9am - 2:00pm

Schedule subject to change based on enrollment

If you have any additional inquiries, kindly email Maria Vulcano vulcanom@cheznous.org

FlynnO’Hara Uniforms is the largest privately-owned supplier and retailer of high-quality school uniforms, gym wear, and medical attire in the United States. Since 1972 we have remained family owned-and-operated, providing industry-leading quality and customer support to over half a million students each year.

Congratulations Class of 1985

You all have been graduated from Notre Dame for more years than I had been alive when I was lucky enough to have taught your class.

I remember those years warmly …apparently TIME DOES heal all wounds… :) you were a lot of fun and I remember the many laughs we had during our time together.

Forgive me for not making an appearance at such a grand celebration, but I am continuing my studies of Marine Biology in West Palm Beach, watching the wind blown palm trees all waving a warm salute to you.

Cheers to a group of the finest students this teacher could have hoped to have in his classes.

And many thanks for teaching me a thing or two!!!