Soccer Captains Alex Henderson '25, Roz Doherty '27, Caroline Pingel '25 and Emma Shields '25 hold up the 2025 State Soccer Championship trophy.
PRESIDENT
Sr. Susan Marie Krupp, ASCJ '76
DEAN OF ACADEMICS
Dr. Meghan Bohac
DEAN OF STUDENT LIFE
Mrs. Kathleen Wobbe Pottinger '88
ABOUT:
SPIRIT is Cor Jesu Academy’s publication for alumnae, parents, friends and benefactors.
CONTACT: SPIRIT
Cor Jesu Academy
10230 Gravois Road
St. Louis, MO 63123
marketing@corjesu.org
SUBMISSIONS:
We welcome your story ideas and submissions. Please contact the Marketing Department at marketing@corjesu.org.
THANK YOU
Thank you to Alex Smith Adams '09 of Birdeye Media for capturing many of the images of Cor Jesu's special events that appear in this publication. And thank you to Stephanie Klinker Howe, owner of Klink Creative, for creatively displaying life at Cor Jesu in this magazine.
corjesu.org
@corjesuacademy
President’s Letter
Peace!
What a gift this school year has been! Our theme, Shine, has brightened the hearts of our students and school community, as well as the walls of our school. From drama and musical performances to athletic competitions, service to the marginalized, engaging academics, social events for students, parents and the larger community, to Eucharistic Adoration and Mass in our newly renovated chapel, the Cor Jesu community has truly been shining.
One day this past semester stands out in my heart, when I saw God’s spirit shine brightly through our students. May 8th was a memorable day not only at Cor Jesu, but around the world. Between AP exams and CJ classes, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel in Rome, signaling “Habemus Papam” — “We have a pope.” I had the joy of joining a group of students in the Student Commons as we watched the announcement on the mounted screens, waiting for Cardinal Mamberti to reveal the name of the newly elected pope. When he did, the students jumped up and down, clapping and cheering as Pope Leo XIV appeared. Seeing them so engaged and connected to this moment in the universal Church filled me with joy and reminded me how deeply they care about their spirituality and their relationship with God.
Speaking of joy, you will find some really joyful stories in this summer issue of Spirit. From Cor Jesu’s new class, In Our Era: Modern Women’s History, to the success of our RISE program and its first cohort of graduates and the thrilling Lacrosse AND Soccer State Championship wins, there’s much to celebrate in the life of our school and the accomplishments of our students. So, let us continue to Shine throughout the summer. Know that I am praying for each of you and your families. May the Sacred Heart continue to bless you abundantly.
Sr. Susan Marie Krupp, ASCJ ‘76 Cor Jesu Academy President
CJA and SJA Set New Record at
Funderwear 2025
Funderwear 2025 was one for the books!
Cor Jesu Academy and St. Joseph’s Academy joined forces once again to support St. Patrick Center, collecting a record-breaking 111,930 undergarments for those in need. This total far surpassed last year’s collection of 64,393. The night was filled with energy, school spirit and friendly competition. Congratulations to our Charger basketball team and tug-of-war squad on their big wins, and yes, the Pants are staying at CJA.
We are proud to partner with the Angels each year for this impactful cause and even prouder of our Chargers for showing up with heart and joy.
111,930
UNDERGARMENTS COLLECTED FOR ST. PATRICK CENTER
Let’s celebrate Charger accomplishments!
Around
1 Our Chargers attended the Missouri State Thespian Conference and returned with outstanding achievements.
Maggie Powers '25 earned a SUPERIOR Thespy for Scenic Design of The Wizard of Oz
Skye Lozano '25 earned a SUPERIOR Thespy for Acting
Kate Schuler '27 earned a SUPERIOR Thespy for Solo Musical Theatre
Amelia Pozzo '27 and Genevieve Rasure '26 earned an EXCELLENT Thespy for Duet Acting (Steel Magnolias)
Elena Villaflores '25 earned an EXCELLENT Thespy for Costume Construction (Glinda’s Dress – Wizard of Oz)
The Improv Team (Grace Oliver '25, Maura Horan '26, Genevieve Rasure '26, Sophia Flowers '26 and Alice Farrell '27) earned an EXCELLENT rating
Special recognition goes to Maura Horan '26, who was officially inducted as a Missouri State Thespian Officer (STO) for 2025!
2 CLASS OF 2029
ACCEPTANCE DAY!
On January 31, Cor Jesu accepted the Class of 2029! On this special day, 164 students from across St. Louis were accepted into our CJ community, including 31 Cor Jesu legacies.
CHARGER PREMIER PARTY
In the evening of Acceptance Day, we celebrated with our brand new Chargers at the Charger Premier Party.
CHARGERS SISTERS NIGHT
The Class of 2029 joined their Class of 2028 big sisters for Charger Sisters Night, celebrating with fun, games and Cor Jesu spirit.
3 NEW SPORT ALERT: WATER POLO!
CJA’s Water Polo team is the very first of its kind, marking the first all-girls private school team not co-opted with another high school.
the Halls
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
4
Cor Jesu Academy kicked off Black History Month with a celebration of culture and creativity! We watched part of the documentary “Black Girls Play: The Story of Hand Games” and had fun revisiting childhood favorites like “Miss Mary Mack.” We also heard from the founders of Chocolate Girls Cookies LLC, who shared their journey as young, black entrepreneurs turning their passion into a business.
5 Lauren Ortwerth ‘26 made CJ history by scoring her 1000th high school career point at the January 14th Funderwear basketball game!
6 17 Chargers shined through their musical talents at the Missouri State Solo and Ensemble Festival!
GOLD RATING:
Bridget Blase '25
Amelia Eickhoff '27
Liz Elam '25
Lydia Hercules '26
Clare Hinkamper '26
Claire Madsen '28
Lauren Maloney '26
Mary McKendry '25
Grace Rasmussen '26
Amelia Schwartz '25
Juliet Siemer '26
Tori Volansky '26
7
SILVER RATING:
Layla Birner '26
Lydia Hercules '26
Paige Johnston '26
Emma Martinez '27
Genevieve Rasure '26
Juliet Siemer '26
Lilly Snyder '26
ST. LOUIS SCIENCE
FAIR
Gabby DeLuca ‘26 and Laura Pierre ‘25, were named finalists in the 2025 Honors Division of the St. Louis Science Fair!
8 Peggy McGraw was named an Exceptional Educator by the Affton-Lemay Chamber of Commerce!
9 CJA Robotics competed at the St. Louis FRC Regional Competition where they brought home the FRC Imagery Award for the second year in a row.
10 CJA’s Women of Color Club threw a Lunar New Year party! We were thrilled to welcome students from WashU’s LNYF organization for a beautiful Vietnamese fan dance, featuring alumna Tiffany Ly '24!
11 Mary McKenzie '26 placed fourth in the 3200-m run at the MSHSAA Girls Track & Field Championships!
12 CHARGERS AT THE CAPITOL! ALUMNAE SOCIAL
We had a blast catching up with alumnae in Washington, DC! CLOSE UP
Our Chargers spent five days in Washington, D.C. with the Close Up Foundation, expanding their civic knowledge and connecting with students from across the country!
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
13
On February 21, Cor Jesu initiated the newest members of our chapter of the National Honor Society!
14 The CJA Dance Team competed at the State Competition. They won first place in Jazz, second place in Pom and fourth overall for Division 3!
15 Maddie DiMaria ‘27 received the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame Bob Kehoe Future Award and has been named the 2024–2025 Gatorade Missouri Girls Soccer Player of the Year!
16 On Saturday, March 8, students, parents, faculty and alumnae came together for Service Saturday, sharing the Heart of Christ through acts of service across St. Louis.
17 THE CJA BASKETBALL COMPETED IN THE FINAL FOUR OF THE STATE TOURNAMENT FOR MSHSAA CLASS 6!
18 CHARGER TRACK & FIELD TOOK FIRST PLACE OUT OF 13 TEAMS AT THE ALL CATHOLIC INVITATIONAL!
19 SPRING FINE ARTS FESTIVAL
The Spring Fine Arts Festival celebrated student creativity with a vibrant art exhibit and an impressive concert by the CJ Orchestra and Handbells Ensembles, featuring guest collaborations and statequalifying performers. The night also honored Mrs. Carol Bauer’s final concert after 25 years of inspiring Cor Jesu musicians.
20 Grace Shoger '25 was named Cor Jesu’s 2025 recipient of the Archdiocese of St. Louis Martin Luther King, Jr. Model of Justice Award!
21 Kayla Wahl ’26 placed fifth at the State Swim Competition in the 100 YD Fly!
22 9 CHARGER ATHLETES SIGNED TO CONTINUE THEIR ATHLETIC CAREERS IN COLLEGE!
Macy Budd '25
FIELD HOCKEY AT SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
Maddie Cotton '25
ICE HOCKEY AT MARYVILLE UNIVERSITY
Abby Finnegan '25
LACROSSE AT ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY
Alex Henderson '25
SOCCER AT ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY
Nora Remiger '25
BATON TWIRLING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS
Ellie Schroeder '25
SOCCER AT MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY
Emma Shields '25
SOCCER AT MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY
Sophia Spivey '25
SOFTBALL AT ELMHURST UNIVERSITY
Molly Stutte '25
FIELD HOCKEY AT INDIANA UNIVERSITY
23 4 Chargers were honored through our May Crowning Court
Congratulations to Miriam Goldkamp '28, Claire Henderson '27, Maddie Mispagel '26 and Corinne Jacoby '25!
24 Bella Braun ‘25 received the Archbishop May Service Award for her outstanding commitment to Christian service and living out Cor Jesu’s mission through acts of charity and advocacy!
Chargers who inspire!
CLASS OF 2029 Welcome, 164 TOTAL STUDENTS
48 40 54% 59
ZIP CODES REPRESENTED
PARISHES REPRESENTED HAVE AN ALUMNAE CONNECTION
GRADE SCHOOLS AND MIDDLE SCHOOLS REPRESENTED
Alumna Daughters Alumna Granddaughters Current Sisters Sisters of Alumna
NEW SCHOOLS SENDING TO COR JESU (compared to the last three years)
Thomas Jefferson School
North Point Middle School
Our Lady Queen of Peace School
The College School
Seckman Middle School
St. Bridget of Kildare School
Our Class of 2029 Chargers!
Grace Abe
Sammy Abernathy
Sophia Abeyta
Sam Albrecht
Lily Andrasko
Grace Anna
Elin Austin
Ava Bartell
Lia Bautista-Hernandez
Ella Beaudean
Lisa Bené
Clara Bergman
Abbie Bick
Sara Kate Bielicki
Stella Blind
Annie Blumeyer
Liv Bode
Sophia Bond
Alexa Brockmeyer
Ellie Brotherton
Stella Cajigal
Lillian Carter
Lucy Casalone
Kinley Chambers
Peyton Chambers
Cate Cooke
Elowyn Couch
Lila Croat
Mary Damazyn
Izzy Della Croce
Madeline Dibble
Ameilia Dierker
Olivia Dillow
Amelia Drafall
Julia Drummond
Abbie Eickhoff
Maddie Elking
Chloe Eversgerd
Leah Farmer
Rose Farrell
Alea Farris
Abby Fernandez
Avery Finney
Natalia Flores
Mackenzie Flowers
Maria Frisella
Mads Geiger
Elise Goedeker
Emmy Goedeker
Cecie Goeller
Sophie Goeller
Tilly Goldkamp
Natalie Goodman
Lorelei Guntli
Nora Guntli
Grace Habermaas
Alexis Haefer
Maggie Hagerty
Megan Hamill
Lillian Hollenkamp
Penelope Hollenkamp
Emily Horton
Susan Irons
Caroline Jones
Izzy Jones
Ava Kapsak
Savannah Kempa
Charlotte Kenner
Addi Kettler
Helen Kim
Aubs Kohlberg
Hannah Kratky
Jenna Kucharczyk
Mia Kucharczyk
Samantha Lacey
Avery Lauber
Bella Le
Addison Lehman
Addy Lehmuth
Reese Luna
Kha-Dinh Luu
CC Lykins
Bea Lynch
Lucy Mangrich
Lilah Mazur
Violet McGuire
Chloe McLafferty
Mila Medrano
Hailey Minard
Lily Moore
Lily Moy
Vivie Murphy
Molly Murphy
Grace Nguyen
Kelly Nguyen
Luna Nguyen
Frances Nichols
Natalie Niesen
Alondra Nieto-Morales
Clare Nowak
Esther Nuam
Laney O'Brien
Virginia Olsen
Elise Ottiger
Mia Pace
Kate Page
Riley Paglia
Emma Parmeter
Ally Pasagic
Eloise Payne
Danielle Pereira
Anne Marie Pierre
Helen Potts
Vivian Pozzo
Elly Quigley
Lilly Rasmussen
Bobbie Ratliff
Peyton Reiter
Jalin Rodis
Evie Rudden
Ava Ruzicka
Mary Catherine Saladin
Carly Satchell
Mauriella Savens
Natalie Schmidt
Sloan Schmidt
Kate Schnitzmeier
Georgi Seamands
Meredith Sequeira
Quinn Shrum
Lucy Sinclair
Logan Skornia
Ari Smith
Gabbie Smith
Riley Smith
Julia Spowal
Finley Staats
Sophia Steffen
Clara Stookey
Emily Strong
Maggie Struckhoff
Ella Swearingen
Charlotte Swoboda
Molly Talleur
Hannah Traughber
Lena Truesdale
Elsa Uhrhan
Addy Van Bree
Amelia Van Cleave
Emily Vautrain
Eva Vineyard
Summer Vitale
Avery Wagner
Charlotte Weable
Katie Weissler
Alex Wessels
Bella Whitehead
Maria Fe Wilhelm Sanchez
Remy Willis
Kylee Wilson
Aubrey Winka
Cecilia Yeung
Vera Zehnder
Sophia Zlatic
As of June 2025
welcome to CJA!
Cor Jesu’s young women of today aren’t waiting to make history. They’re already part of it.
Introducing one of the most exciting new courses offered at Cor Jesu Academy: In Our Era: Modern Women’s History. Created and taught by Audrey Lampe Ploesser, a 2006 graduate of Cor Jesu, the course invites students to examine the evolving role of women in society from 1990 to the present.
The course launched during the second semester of the 2024-2025 school year as a special topics elective within the Social Studies department. It quickly became a student favorite thanks to its timely subject matter, dynamic discussions and real-world applications. From Taylor Swift’s cultural dominance to Simone Biles’ and Caitlin Clark’s advocacy for mental health in sports, the class explored the ways women are shaping the zeitgeist in real time.
“I have always been passionate about women’s history,” Ploesser said. “But what really sparked this course was watching how the
world responded to powerful women in 2023 and 2024. There was a shift happening, and I wanted to give our students the opportunity to engage with it.”
The course began with a brief historical foundation but quickly moved into present-day topics. Students examined gender equity in the workplace, the wage gap, women in sports, representation in leadership and the layered experiences of women of color and those in marginalized communities. They analyzed data, engaged with academic and media sources and connected their findings to their own lives.
The class also included field trips and guest speakers, helping students apply what they learned in meaningful ways. Highlights included a tour of St. Louis City SC’s stadium, the first majority femaleowned team in Major League Soccer, and a visit to Series Six, led by alumna Sami Maurer Baldridge '11.
“They can be bold, kind, generous and faithful while using their voice for good.”
–AUDREY LAMPE PLOESSER '06
Students also heard from alumna Gretchen Mueller Kingma '08, who shared her experience building a niche real estate business informed by her occupational therapy background. Conversations with Sr. Clara Johnson, ASCJ via Zoom from Rome and Sr. Karolyn Nunes, FSGM in person, offered thoughtful reflections on women in the Church today.
“Our students asked hard questions and had honest conversations,” Ploesser said. “We all learned so much.”
During Women’s History Month, students took their studies schoolwide. They organized a diaper drive that collected more than 1,500 diapers for the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank, spotlighted influential women in art and music and hosted a lively trivia game during lunch to engage the student body.
One of the most powerful conversations occurred during the unit on women in sports. Students explored how uniform regulations affect athletic performance and self-esteem, particularly for young girls. They discussed the alarming statistic that three out of four female athletes have seen teammates quit due to concerns about uniforms. They also examined Olympic standards that require minimal clothing for women in sports like beach
volleyball and handball, comparing these to the more modest options available to male athletes.
“The outrage in the room was real,” Ploesser said. “Many of them had felt this in their own athletic experiences but had never put words to it. It opened their eyes.”
Student feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Several called it their favorite class they had taken at Cor Jesu. One student shared that it inspired her to consider studying gender studies in college. Others said they appreciated having a space to talk about what it means to be a woman today and how they can make a difference.
The course will be offered again in Spring 2026, with hopes of becoming a permanent part of the curriculum and potentially earning college credit through Saint Louis University.
“This class reminds students that they do not need to shrink themselves for others,” Ploesser said. “They can be bold, kind, generous and faithful while using their voice for good.”
At Cor Jesu, this course is a powerful reminder that today’s students are not just learning history, they are already helping shape it.
connecting her story to history
shining futures
Alumnae Return to Campus for INC Career Event
Cor Jesu hosted its Alumnae Internship Networking Connections (INC) event, welcoming collegeaged alumnae back to campus for an afternoon of career prep and professional networking. Despite a week of snow days, we were able to pull it off!
Keynote speaker Sarah Zagarri Krueger ’93, founder of Occhio Search and Recruitment, shared job search strategies
Thank you!
Thank you to all participating organizations for supporting our Chargers’ futures!
• Anders CPAs + Advisors
• Armanino
• Boeing Civil Design, Inc
• First Bank
• Graybar
• Hastings+Chivetta Architects
• House Everyone STL
• Immigrant Home English Learning Program
• Jacobs
• MSMF Wealth Management
• Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS)
• Stifel
• St. Louis Cardinals
• Teach St. Louis
• The Cigna Group
• The Clark-Fox Family Foundation
• Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company
A Timeless Tradition
JUNIOR RING MASS CELEBRATES THE CLASS OF 2026
On March 28, 2025, the Cor Jesu community gathered to celebrate a cherished milestone: the Junior Ring Mass for the Class of 2026. Held on campus, the Mass was followed by a joyful reception honoring this special tradition.
One of the most meaningful moments came as alumnae mothers presented rings to their daughters, passing on not only a symbol of Cor Jesu sisterhood but also a legacy of faith, excellence and love.
The Cor Jesu class ring, unchanged over the years, remains a deeply recognizable and unifying symbol for Chargers past and present.
outstanding! The Chargers Claim the
Title
The Cor Jesu Academy Varsity Lacrosse team capped off a thrilling playoff run with a 13-10 victory over Eureka High School to win the Missouri State Lacrosse Association championship on May 24, 2025. The Chargers, who entered the playoffs as the No. 5 seed, toppled the No. 4, No. 1 and No. 3 seeds in succession to secure our first lacrosse state title since 2016.
The Chargers (16-5) overcame an early three-goal deficit and carried a 10-8 lead into the fourth quarter. Junior goalkeeper Maggie Bruno, who had shared time with freshman Charlie Cates throughout the season, played all 48 minutes in the title game and delivered crucial saves to fuel the comeback.
“One of our core values at Cor Jesu is Caring Community, and that has really shown through our sports teams,” said senior Madi Beuligmann, who also plays field hockey and basketball. “We become best friends. We’re always there for each other and that helps us succeed.”
The Chargers’ victory capped a season of determination and teamwork, solidifying their place among the state’s best.
Chargers Capture Back-to-Back
Cor Jesu Academy claimed the 2025 MSHSAA Class 4 State Soccer Championship with a commanding 4-0 victory over St. Dominic High School on Saturday, June 7 at World Wide Technology Soccer Park. The win marks the second consecutive state title for the Chargers, who captured the Class 3 crown last season.
Sophomore standout Maddie DiMaria ‘27 led the charge, netting the first two goals and assisting on another in a stellar postseason performance. Malena Anic ‘25 added the third goal and sophomore captain Roz Doherty '27 sealed the win with the fourth.
With a final record of 22-1, the team’s victory capped an exceptional spring season, following Lacrosse’s State Championship in May.
“Coming in, everyone told me, ‘Cor Jesu is a smart school,’ but I wanted to make it a point that we could also play sports—and be both,” Doherty said.
Titles
love and laughter Penny Queen
Inspired by the hustle and bustle of our nation’s largest city, Cor Jesu’s campus transformed into The Big Apple as Penny Queen Week began. The theme, I CJ, had students, faculty and staff in a New York state of mind. Whether it was through the familiar joys of Pet-a-Puppy or the excitement of the reimagined Penny Queen Carnival, there was laughter around every corner. From profit shares and bake sales, to unique events like “Parents & Pickleball” or “Build-Your-Own Bracelet,” Penny Queen Week had something for everyone. And while the Chargers were having fun, they didn’t lose sight of the real meaning of PQ – to make a difference.
Special shoutout to the class “Penny Queens,” the student representatives who create, organize and execute fundraising efforts.
SENIORS:
• Alex Henderson
• Danielle Little
• Alyson King
JUNIORS:
• Elayna Kramer
• Sofia Moehn
• Josie O’Brien
SOPHOMORES:
• Anna Judkins
• Katie McMaster
• Amanda Missey
FRESHMEN:
• Evelyn Herr
• Samantha Marr
• Anna Visintine
PENNY QUEEN 2025 PROUDLY SUPPORTED:
• Camp Rainbow
• Operation Underground Railroad
• Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Mission in Benin, Africa
• Summer Service Trip to Appalachia
• Cor Jesu Endowment Fund
$34,177
PENNY QUEEN 2025 RAISED OVER FOR DESERVING NON-PROFITS!
2025 PENNY QUEENS:
$660,000
$315,315 FUNDS RAISED FOR CJA
FUND-A-NEED TOTAL
522
AUCTION ATTENDEES
166 ALUMNAE ATTENDEES
150 AUCTION VOLUNTEERS
A RecordBreaking Night
46 TH ANNUAL COR JESU AUCTION
It was an unforgettable evening of community, celebration and generosity. Thanks to the incredible support of our parents, alumnae, faculty, friends and sponsors, we raised a record-breaking $660,000 in support of Cor Jesu students.
More than 520 guests filled the gym for an elegant evening of dinner, bidding and fellowship, including 166 alumnae and 37 virtual bidders joining from afar. A highlight of the night was the inspiring Fund-A-Need portion, which raised $315,315 to support tuition assistance. This event would not have been possible without our 150 dedicated volunteers and everyone who donated, bid or cheered us on.
37 VIRTUAL BIDDERS
COUNTLESS HEARTS WARMED
Thank you for helping make this our most successful auction yet!
Save the Date!
The 47th Annual Cor Jesu Auction is Saturday, February 7!
AtCor Jesu Academy, our mission is rooted in the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to shine. Our RISE program is a living testament to this mission, reaching the St. Louis Community and surrounding areas to support middle school girls from underserved communities across St. Louis.
RISE, which stands for Readiness, Intellect, Spirituality and Empowerment, is more than an academic and leadership initiative. It is a lifeline of hope and possibility. Hosted at Cor Jesu, RISE opens doors for these young women, giving them the confidence and skills they need to thrive in rigorous college preparatory high schools and beyond.
During the six-week summer program, the halls of Cor Jesu are filled with laughter, determination and learning. Each day begins with a shared meal and prayer, a reminder that every student belongs to a community that believes in her worth. In small groups, students tackle core academic subjects and wellness practices that nurture their minds and spirits. In the afternoons, activities are dedicated to inspiring play and social-emotional growth, giving them the chance to express themselves, build friendships and develop confidence for the future.
Throughout the year, Saturday sessions focus solely on academics, giving students the time and structure to build and refine their math and ELA skills. Each week, these sessions offer a consistent opportunity for focused
creating community
HIGH SCHOOLS BEING ATTENDED BY OUR FIRST GRADUATING RISE COHORT:
• Cor Jesu Academy (6)
• Notre Dame High School (4)
• Ursuline Academy (2)
• Nerinx Hall (2)
• McKinley Classical Leadership Academy High School (2)
• Rosati-Kain Academy (1)
• Cardinal Ritter College Prep (1)
• Clayton High School (1)
• MICDS (1)
instruction and skill development, reinforcing concepts learned during the summer and ensuring that students stay on track. By dedicating Saturdays to academic work, the program strengthens students’ foundational knowledge and helps them feel confident and prepared for high school.
The RISE program’s impact is clear in the steady academic growth of its students. Whether they begin ahead or behind, every girl is supported in reaching her next level of success.
Recent assessments show consistent gains in reading and math scores, with more students moving into higher percentile ranges over time. 72% of RISE students grew in their national percentile scores in Reading and 83% of RISE students grew in their national percentile scores in Math. These improvements demonstrate that RISE is not only preparing students for the rigor of high school, it is helping them grow in confidence, skill and belief in their own potential.
What makes RISE so powerful is not just the curriculum but the belief that every girl who walks through our doors has a gift to share with the world. Starting with a nomination by a school official and in partnership with the student’s guardian, the admissions process then considers financial need and academic potential.
The first cohort of RISE graduates has already secured placements at schools like Cor Jesu Academy, Ursuline Academy, Notre Dame High School, Nerinx Hall and more. Their journey is about more than just high school readiness. It is about discovering their voices and knowing in their hearts that they belong in spaces that once felt out of reach.
For us at Cor Jesu, RISE is a reflection of our deepest values and a promise to live out our mission every day. It is an act of love and faith, a commitment to ensure that every girl, regardless of her background, has the chance to learn, lead and grow.
As a Cor Jesu community, let us hold these young women in our hearts. Let us celebrate their courage and determination, and let us remember that through RISE, we are building a future where every girl can rise as high as her dreams will take her.
“From our perspective, the RISE program has given our daughters an opportunity for additional positive social interactions with other girls and engaging activities. The staff’s dedication to presenting a solid curriculum clearly expands their academic capabilities, making the experience well worth their participation and one that will surely be remembered as a key part of their academic and personal success.”
–RISE PARENT
If you’re interested in supporting the RISE program, whether through a gift, volunteering as a career speaker or helping with wellness initiatives, please contact our Director of Leadership Giving, Brittany Peek Seabaugh ’04, at (314) 300-6324 or bseabaugh@corjesu.org.
Cor Jesu Takes Audiences Over the Rainbow with The Wizard of Oz
Cor Jesu Academy’s theater department brought the magic of The Wizard of Oz to life with four dazzling performances held April 10–13. Students transformed the Auditorium into the Land of Oz.
Kate Schuler ‘27 led the cast as the beloved Dorothy Gale, supported by a dynamic ensemble including Rose Miller ‘28 as the Cowardly Lion, Annabelle Swaykus ‘26 as the Tinman and Audrey Strohmeyer ‘26 as the Scarecrow. Sophia Piotrowski ‘26 commanded the stage as the Wicked Witch of the West, while Mary Schoenekase ‘28 brought sparkle and grace to Glinda.
A special highlight was the full cast’s spirited performance of Munchkinland and Emerald City scenes, with colorful costumes and lively choreography. Every student on stage and behind the scenes contributed to a production that truly embodied the spirit of Cor Jesu creativity and collaboration.
Congratulations to the entire cast and crew for a memorable journey down the yellow brick road!
Charger pride!
SPRING SPIRIT WEEK BRINGS
TO COR JESU
Cor Jesu’s Spring Spirit Week hit it out of the park with this year’s theme: Battle of the Classes: Welcome to the Big Leagues. From April 7 to 11, students embraced the excitement of competition, creativity and community.
The week opened with “Game Day,” featuring a hilarious mix of BBQ dads, soccer moms and game day personalities. Tuesday brought “Big Leagues on the Big Screen” with movie-inspired looks. Music took center stage on Wednesday’s “Halftime Hits,” where pop icons took over the halls. On Thursday, students repped their “Home Team Advantage” by donning local sports gear in full St. Louis spirit.
The week closed with “CJ Night Lights” and the beloved Student Council BBQ.
Seniors racked up the most points during the challenges and won Battle of the Classes!
25 Years of Honoring Clare Furay '91
Clare Furay ’91 was a gifted writer, leader and shining example of faith and service. After earning an ROTC scholarship to Notre Dame, she served in the Navy and joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps to advocate for affordable housing. Clare’s life, dedicated to others, was tragically cut short in 1999 at just 26 years old.
To honor her legacy, the Furay family established the Clare C. Furay Scholarship to empower future Cor Jesu students. As we mark 25 years since her passing, we aim to grow the fund to $250,000 by Veterans Day 2025. Your support will help keep Clare’s spirit alive for generations to come.
For questions or gifts, contact Brittany Peek Seabaugh ’04, Director of Leadership Giving at (314) 300-6324 or bseabaugh@corjesu.org.
Give to the Clare C. Furay Scholarship www.corjesu.org/support/clare-furay-scholarship
Farewell, Class of 2025!
The Cor Jesu Class of 2025 closed out their high school journey with joy, gratitude and Charger pride. The celebration began with the Baccalaureate Liturgy on May 17 at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Church, followed by a beautiful graduation ceremony on campus the next afternoon.
This year’s Commencement
Speaker, Stephanie Korpal ’04, shared heartfelt words of encouragement and wisdom, inspiring the graduates to embrace their future with confidence and compassion.
Congratulations, Class of 2025!
A SPECIAL SHOUTOUT TO OUR TOP FIVE ACADEMIC LEADERS:
VALEDICTORIAN
Caroline Pingel
SALUTATORIAN
Maggie Owens
THIRD RANKING
Liz Hanson
FOURTH RANKING
Annie Kelly
FIFTH RANKING
Sydney Gorsuch
Once a Charger, always a Charger. We can't wait to see all you accomplish!
Thanks to the generosity of our competitive alumnae, we more than doubled our alumnae participation from 4.24% last year to 11.26%. A total of 776 alumnae raised over $28,000 for the Charger Fund. That’s 486 more donors and more than $17,000 above last year’s total.
We are proud to have placed fourth in this spirited challenge and even prouder of the incredible Charger community that continues to show up and shine!
Thank you to all who supported Cor Jesu during this year’s Girls Schools Unite competition! 776 ALUMNAE RAISED OVER $28,000
Welcome Home!
On Saturday, June 7, 2025, Cor Jesu Academy joyfully welcomed alumnae back to campus for Class Reunions, celebrating graduates with class years ending in ‘0 and ‘5.
The evening began with Liturgy in the beloved ‘old’ gym, made even more meaningful by a volunteer choir of alumnae.
Following Mass, the celebration continued with cocktail hour and dinner in the ‘new’ gym.
the shores of our new dawn
2004
Alumnae Traces
Erica Blume Slater ‘04 co-founded Gunn Slater Law Firm, recently winning a $48.1M medical malpractice case. Erica also sits on the Missouri Bar Disciplinary Committee and was elected to the 22nd Circuit Judicial Commission.
2008
Dr. Kristina Mungenast Ruddle ‘08 was named Top Doctor of 2024 from the Best in Missouri Magazine for Excellence in Chiropractic Medicine. Dr. Ruddle owns St. Louis Family Chiropractic and has advanced certifications in Pediatric and Prenatal Chiropractic.
2011
Kate Kreienkamp '11 was named the 2024 Engineers Without Borders (EWB-USA) Exceptional Professional Leader. Kate's team partnered with the highlands community of Laurel Gompuene, Ecuador to implement a reliable water distribution system.
2012
Abigail Witte Buettner '12 and her husband, Kevin, welcomed their daughter, Clara Rosalie Anne, on April 9, 2025, weighing 8lbs exactly. Clara hopes to be a Charger one day!
Dani Murphy ‘12 married Jordan Wellinghoff in October 2024. Bridesmaids included Jordan Giljum ‘12, Jessica Kaiser ‘12, Caroline McGowan ‘12, Tori Zanaboni Unser ‘12, Ani Haroian ‘12 and Emily Bollinger ‘12.
2016
Deanna Schmidt Pelsang ‘16 and her husband, Chester, welcomed their first child, Mary-Kate Villata Pelsang, on May 25, 2024. Mary-Kate is also the niece of 3 proud CJA chargers: Amelia ‘03, Catrina ‘10, and Faith Schmidt ‘21.
2017
Rachel Bartnett ‘17 matched to the Internal Medicine - Pediatrics Residency at Rush University.
Claire Boehm ‘17 matched to the Internal Medicine Residency at St. Louis University.
If you have exciting news to share about yourself or a fellow CJA alumna, please email the Marketing Department at marketing@corjesu.org.
Kate Keuss Carron ’17 married Luke Carron on Saturday, October 5, 2024. Bridesmaids included Anne Carron Federico '13, Olivia Hanford ’17, Emily Erbs ’17, Emma Campbell ’17, Olivia Collier ’17, Jordan Besore ’17 and Julianne Gaughan Carron ’11.
Hannah Klutho ‘17 was named the Teacher of the Year for Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri.
Katie Mansfield ‘17 matched to the Dermatology Residency at the University of Texas at Austin.
2018
Maggie Kuntz ’18 (daughter of Jeannie Huddleston Kuntz ’89) opened her 2nd Broadway show, John Proctor is the Villain, on April 14, 2025.
In Memoriam
We extend our sincere condolences and prayers to the families of the Cor Jesu community mourning the loss of their loved ones.
Cor Jesu mourns the loss of our alumnae:
Phyllis Hughes Benkof ’65
Jane Baumann Crowe ’67
Mother of Laura Crowe Sobol ‘95
Cousin of Michelle Edleson Lesinski ‘79, Brenda Edleson ‘80, Jennifer Downey McKean ‘91, Julie Downey Mendoza ‘93 and Teresa Barr ‘98
Christine Rosciglione Maynes ‘64
Mary McDonough ’79
Sister of Judy McDonough ‘81, Kathy McDonough Aevermann ‘83, and Ellie McDonough Thomas ‘85
Maxine Bailey
Mother of Amy Bailey Bach ‘84
Grandmother of Mary Bach ‘03, Anna Bach Steele ‘06 and Rachel Bach ‘10
Thomas Bailey
Father of Amy Bailey Bach ‘84
Grandmother of Mary Bach ‘03, Anna Bach Steele ‘06 and Rachel Bach ‘10
Kathleen Bayer
Mother of Debbie Bayer McCaslin ‘91
Grandmother of Lauren Boyer ‘12 and Katie McCaslin ‘18
Edward (Ed) Braun
Father of Elizabeth (Liz) Braun Rush ‘91
Dorothy Cantwell
Grandmother of Meghan Cantwell ‘18 and Keely Cantwell ‘23
Walter Collier
Father-in-law of Pam Sorich Collier ‘90
Grandfather of Olivia Collier ‘17, Emma Collier ‘18 and Sarah Collier ‘21
Barbara Frankowski
Mother of Dee Frankowski DiMaggio ‘92
Grandmother of Sabrina DiMaggio ‘26
Jeanne Garner
Mother of Christine (Kippy) Garner Di Rie ‘79 and Judith Garner Colvin ‘80
Grandmother of Claire Colvin ‘16
Patricia Hencken
Mother of Susan Hencken Hoffmann ‘78
Grandmother of Kathryn Hoffmann ‘05 and Laura Hencken ‘07
Mother-in-law of Cathy Giacoma Hencken ‘77
John “Jack” Herrmann
Father of Ellen Herrmann Lynch ‘09
Louis Hess
Grandfather of Kayla Hess ‘28
Mary Ellen Hogan
Grandmother of Abby Hogan ‘27
Robert (Bob) Juergens
Father of Mary Juergens Winkeler ‘94 and Meaghan Juergens-Holliday ‘96
Father-in-law of Debbie Barket Juergens ‘88
Paul Kapp
Father of Susan Kapp Hastings ‘87
Ed Klages
Father of Nancy Klages Roberts ‘87 and Tricia Klages Grebel ‘99
Laura Hamtil-Klages
Mother of Nancy Klages Roberts ‘87 and Tricia Klages Grebel ‘99
Aunt of Anne Hamtil Roux ‘87
Jerry Maloney
Grandfather of Allie Maloney ‘24 and Lauren Maloney ‘26
Mike McGrath
Husband of Krissie Sondag McGrath ‘85 Father of Kasey McGrath ‘18 and Jordan McGrath ‘20
Brother-in-law of Bonnie Sondag Sparks ’83 and Carrie Sondag ‘87
Brian McKenna
Brother of Peggy McKenna McEvoy ‘62 and Cookie McKenna Fitzgerald ‘69
Uncle of Katie Fitzgerald Erpelding ‘96
John Michaels
Father of Nicole Michaels Maddock ‘98
Thomas Mueller
Father of Michelle Mueller Fox ‘86
Grandfather of Meghan Fox ‘18 and Anna Fox ‘23
Joan Onder
Mother of Sandy Onder Sieck ‘83
Grandmother of Elizabeth Onder ‘16 and Chris Onder ‘20
Theresa Oppelz
Grandmother of Erica Oppelz Mpoy ‘04
Elmer Richars
Grandfather of Emily Richars ‘20 and Sarah Richars ‘23
Marilue Simon
Mother-in-law of Elaine Ojile Simon ‘88
Grandmother of Karen Hill Pugh ’03, Jackie Hill ‘05, Annie Brotherton Andrews ‘08, Jen Winebright Gordon ’08, Sarah Winebright ‘09, Mary Simon Timmerman ‘10, Olivia Simon Muchow ‘11, Monica Simon Lesch ’12, Grace Powell Martz ’12, Maria Simon Alvarado ’15, Abby Schmitt Powell ’15, Jane Powell ‘16, Theresa Simon ‘16, Lizzie Slinkard ‘16, Sarah Simon ‘18, Caroline Simon ‘20, Sophie Slinkard ‘20, Becca Simon ‘22, Elizabeth Simon ‘23, Mame Slinkard ‘24 and Georgia Slinkard ‘26
